Eagle with Stars and Stripes
Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854

Ruppel

Posted
Editor, Times-Union:

When thinking about whom you might vote for during the upcoming election, think about choosing someone who really works for the people of Indiana. Representative Bill Ruppel is just that person. I have known Rep. Ruppel for many years as a teacher. However, it was in September 2007 that I realized how important it is to have someone like Rep. Ruppel working for "us." By "us" I mean everyone. He works to help people who live in his district as well as outside of his district.

On Sept. 10, 2007, my husband, Nicholas Patterson, was killed while serving our country in Iraq. In preparation for his funeral services, it was necessary to find a facility that could house a large number of people. The obvious choice was Nick's high school gymnasium. When we began to face opposition to the idea, my family called Rep. Ruppel. He immediately left what he was doing, contacted Dr. Reed and Wes Bruce to get involved in the situation. Within an hour or so, Rep. Ruppel called to confirm that everything was worked out and that we would be able to have the services at the high school.

I cannot explain how it made me feel. I am forever grateful to Rep. Ruppel for the quick action that he took and the time he spent outside of the daily duties to honor and respect my husband for what he did.

So, when you are considering who to vote for, think about someone who really does work for his people. Representative Ruppel does not represent the district that I live in, however, after knowing what he did for me, I can only imagine the work that he is able to do for those in his district that he represents. When you get the chance to vote in May, vote for Indiana - vote for Representative Bill Ruppel.

Jayme Patterson

Fayetteville, N.C., via e-mail