August 18th, 2007

The Campaign is under way and moving with enthusiasm! Starting a campaign of any sort is a massive undertaking, and requires the commitment of a team, not just a candidate. It’s both exhilarating and humbling.
We have a great team. Jim, my campaign manager, is a seasoned manager in the Hurst family’s business in Indianapolis. His energy and commitment are infectious. Jim’s assisted by Bill, a pastor on leave from his ministry, who is involved in every aspect of the campaign, especially fundraising. Our interactive website is the result of a huge number of hours of design and programming by Josh, Greg, and Mike, all highly skilled in the field. Ben H. and Ben F. have helped with many others to put together my Facebook page. Susan designed our logo.

Wally has overseen our software needs and offered advice on strategy. Steve and Kathleen have volunteered their lawyering skills. Robyn, Heather, Torrie, Shane, Megan, Eric, James and others have gone with me to fairs, meetings, dinners, parades and events. Several friends are planning fundraising and get-acquainted events. County campaign chairs have been named in several counties and are already working tirelessly. Other volunteers are planning campaigns on campuses, in farm communities, among teachers, veterans, labor, businesses and others.

My family is also deeply in campaign mode. Son Peter, an MBA who likes to write, has researched and written drafts of many articles. Son-in-law David, an MBA with a financial focus, has agreed to be our campaign treasurer. Niece Holly, a human interface engineer, has improved the user friendliness of our website and digital communications.

And of course there’s my wife Sharon. After 24 years of marriage, I continue to be amazed by her constant support, wisdom and undying patience. She’s survived a move to Egypt, starting a new law firm, accepting huge contingency class actions with no income for years, and now campaigning for Congress. What a partner I have!

Politics is a team effort. I am blessed to have such a dedicated team on my side! We are determined to make a difference in our country. In the process we are bringing an exciting group of people together and we’re having fun. (Our team could include you! Click here to volunteer.)

Posted by Nels Ackerson