In 2003, I managed Linda Buskirk’s campaign for Mayor of Fort Wayne.  It was a rematch of a close victory for Fort Wayne Mayor Graham Richard in 1999 where Richard very narrowly beat Buskirk to take the open Mayor’s office.  In 2003, the race didn’t end nearly as close as it did in 1999.  I was a 23 year punk campaign manager who thought he knew more than he did who didn’t think he had a lot to learn after working for Congressman John Hostettler in Indiana’s Bloody 8th for a couple of cycles.  Greg Haegele, manager for Graham Richard’s re-election campaign taught me a thing or two.  A well known blogger who is familiar with that ill-fated race in 2003, sent me this link that shows what Haegele is up to these days as a high level executive at the Sierra Club where he blogs at The Treehugger.

As many of you know, I post regularly at Hoosier Access about Indiana politics. Unfortunately, posting here is often an afterthought. Though I’m sure it will be difficult to find time to post much, I’ll try to do better to write about The Wabash Group, our projects and interesting political tidbits that deal more with the industry and less with politics. We wish you all (I’m sure less than 5) who actually read this post beforehand, a very wonderful Independence Day tomorrow.

Colorado State Senator Tom Wiens (R-Castle Rock) received great coverage this week from local, state and national media for his efforts to bring a potential environmental disaster in Leadville to the government’s and media’s attention. This is a great example of how a public official can use his bully pulpit for good, even at the local level.

Check out American Heritage Girls’ new and innovative website. 

AHG Family and Friends,

I would like to share with you some exciting news for American Heritage Girls! On July 31st, a summary of the AHG background and story aired on Family News in Focus! The promotion is better than we could have hoped for! Please visit the following link to listen! The AHG piece is about 5 minutes into the broadcast and continues on until the end! We here at the National office feel blessed with the support of such a significant and reputable organization as Focus on the Family.   I am graciously requesting that everyone help continue to spread the word of the AHG ministry by sharing this e-mail with 5 friends. If you know anyone interested in learning more about AHG or that would like to start a troop, please have them visit our website at www.ahgonline.org or give us a call at 513-771-2025. Thank you friends and family for all the hard work and countless contributions that have made this ministry a success!

With All His Blessings,

Patti Garibay
National Executive Director

TWG Associate Brian Sikma wrote this piece for The Real Democrat Story on Congressman Joe Donnelly.

On August 1, 2007 the newest addition to the conservative blogosphere in Indiana will open for business.

Announcing the first community-driven website in Indiana where Hoosiers can communicate directly with each other and our elected officials – www.HoosierAccess.com.

Join the conversation! The revolution starts now!

-The Directors of Hoosier Access

We are proud to be part of this campaign - www.defendourcommunity.com

July 16th, 2007

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Brian Sikma Joins The Wabash Group

COLUMBIA CITY–The Wabash Group, a Columbia City, Indiana based consulting firm, recently hired Brian Sikma as an Associate. A native Hoosier and resident of LaPorte County, Sikma will be working on special projects for the firm’s conservative candidates and causes.

Prior to being hired by The Wabash Group, Mr. Sikma worked as a conservative grassroots lobbyist and political organizer. Sikma has made a name for himself serving on several conservative campaigns, writing on state and national issues, and actively blogging on political issues.

Sikma is excited to join the company. Speaking of his new role he said: “I believe The Wabash Group is fufilling a needed role by providing consulting and public relations services to conservative candidates and causes here in Indiana and around the Mid-West.” He continued by saying “Looking forward, I anticipate that my work with The Wabash Group will positively impact the conservative movement at the local, state, and national levels.” For more information about Brian and The Wabash Group, visit www.wabashconsultants.com.