Reaching Out to Russian Speakers

05/10/2008:  I have long known many of the Russian immigrants in our community.  As a part of my campaign I am reaching out to these new citizens.  I want to encourage them to vote and participate in our democracy.  On May 8, I met with a small group of Russian retirees along with other older citizens born in the United States.  I learned a great deal about the concerns of the elderly who are faced with rising costs and static incomes.  On Saturday, May 9, I addressed a group of Russian veterans who were celebrating “Victory Day”, commemorating the end of World War II.  I spoke as an American veteran.  I was able to share with them in their language my thoughts about the often difficult relations between the United States and Russia.  I had a chance to observe the dancing skills of a number of young Russian-Americans.  It was a delightful evening.