Saturday, July 19, 2014

  It's been a couple of exciting weeks.  Joan and I drove to International Falls earlier this month and I made a return trip last week.  Mike Holden had a meeting with his Union leaders and I was part of what's coming in August.  I left with a solid belief that the people in town will surely send me off on the 300 mile walk with more than a smile.  I also met with Emily Gedde with the "Journal" newspaper.  She assured me that they'll do all possible to take the beginning of the Minnesota Miracle into the eyes of the public.
  Prior to heading to International Falls I met with two great individuals in Duluth.  Scott Dulas and Larry Sillanpa.  Scott is the President of Branch 114 with the Letter Carriers and Larry is the Editor for "Labor World"!  Turns out that the letter carriers have their annual picnic scheduled for August 17, the day I walk through Duluth.  So they're joining me for part of the walk along with members of other Unions that day!  It should be both a day to remember and one that will be beneficial to the fundraising goal.  It also marks the half-way point of my miles walked.  Either I'll have found a physical strength to carry me through to the end or have to use the goodness in the hearts of all I've met!  Stay tuned!

Sunday, July 6, 2014

    There's only weeks left before the walk begins.  I'm getting anxious to begin this journey for a number of reasons.  Over the past 2 years I've had the privilege of meeting so many great individuals that share the concern about hunger in Minnesota and how it should not exist!  And having so many come to the plate with their support and donations makes me proud!
  There are a few things that concern the wife and myself in regards to the first week on the road.  Where to find a place to end our day with a plug in for our accommodations.  I'm hoping that Mike will have some information when I travel to International Falls one more time prior to the walk beginning.  And making contacts with the local media as we take on each day.  But all these questions will find answers as we get closer to August 2nd.
  I want to take this opportunity to thank those Unions that have responded to the letter sent out by the State AFL-CIO.  The United Steel Workers, Electrical Workers, Boilermakers, Communications Workers and all stepping up to show a strength and solidarity.  You make me proud!  
  I've approached the local radio and television here in the Twin Cities and gotten a response from some but await all to join in this effort.  We hear so many things through the media as our daily lives move forward. Wouldn't it be great to hear about how all Minnesotans came together, joined hearts, and eliminated hunger here at home?
  For all that have supported my effort thus far, I thank you from the bottom of my heart.  I promise to represent the goodness in each and every one of you as I walk those 300 miles!  And for anyone that has a question about their donation I have one answer.  Your donation will never be spent but remain in the Minnesota Miracle Ending Hunger Fund eternally.  Only the interest of those funds will be used to help the food shelves throughout the State of Minnesota.  The nest has been laid and holds the funds already donated.  Please help us make this effort one that will exemplify what can be done when we stand together with a common cause!!