McCracken's Campaign Blog and Updates: Issue #8
Issue #8 McCracken Team updates:
Don’t let the good get in the way of the great. This reminds me to maintain a singular focus. Now that we are in the Summer Vacation period, there is a natural tendency for teachers to relax, disengage, vacation or travel. Of course those sound like fun things to do but… I seem to be getting energy from working on this campaign, talking to people, meeting new groups and marketing the brand are all skills I've mastered in other industries. I feel equipped to bring those skills to this campaign.
Only at altitudes, these elephant heads indicate the need to attend to the Fragile environment around us.
Here in Chaffee County, it is vital we get balance in the Chaffee Commissioner’s Office. With a focus on getting elected, we are working on public appearances, name recognition and platform ideals. Building that platform on these three Es, Environment, Economy and Education is both natural from my interests and experiences and well suited to serve the people of Chaffee County.
The economy in Chaffee County has gone through many changes in its history. Together, we can work to ensure success.
Obviously, the environment is what draws people to this valley. The economy, jobs and housing is what allows us to stay and our schools and education is what lets us set down roots here in the west.
Regarding our campaign, we have a busy summer lining up with events nearly every week. Our primary focus in this early part of the campaign is name recognition. We want everyone to know this name. Many experts quote anywhere from 3 to 22 incidents of exposure to a new name is necessary to impart it to memory. With that in mind, we are planning to attend large events, talking to as many people as possible and sharing an “Elevator" version of our platform. We will also offer to come to a smaller group setting and share a bit more detailed “Living Room” version. This could be at a home, group or organization.
We also have merch and bling to help broadcast the name. Hats, shirts, buttons, bumper stickers, yard signs, banners and highway signs all play a part of creating a solid team and message.
In the news 
Only at altitudes, these elephant heads indicate the need to attend to the Fragile environment around us. 
The economy in Chaffee County has gone through many changes in its history. Together, we can work to ensure success. 
Last week, Friday, at the Salida Chamber Golf Tournament, the team had a blast. Obstacles like injuries, age and recent experience, was no deterrent for the foursome. They overcame all odds and had many highlights, great shots and smooth puts throughout the course. “Putting for dough and driving for show” became their mantra. Afterwords, we heard quotes like, “We should golf together more often!” or “I did great considering my recent shoulder surgery!” or “Can we
do this again?” We sponsored two holes and attended the “after hours” social in the clubhouse after.
Then on Saturday, Split Happens hosted a bowling fundraiser for veteran mental health and serving those trying to offload those burdens carried after military engagements during deployment. This meaningful yet fun time reminded us of the need for ongoing support for all service members.
On Sunday, the day after Armed Forces Day, the campaign team hosted an old fashioned BBQ.at Poncha Springs Town Hall. The McCracken Team paid attention to every little detail; food, petition signing, decorations, desserts, SHORT Speeches, family friendly balloon tying, and good wholesome connecting among old friends and new acquaintances.
Fast-forwarding a week, the McCracken Team participated in the Memorial Day Parade through downtown Salida, landing at the riverfront and hearing tribute to those who made the highest sacrifice in the line of duty to our nation.
This emphasis on the Salida area is intentional. In our quest for improved name recognition, we will invest time and energy to balance the perceived difference between BV and Salida. BUT, we are not forgetting BV for instance…
Upcoming Team McCracken Events
Team Meetings
To step up and get involved, please reach out and invite yourself to a team meeting. We have planning sessions, working sessions, eating sessions and even monthly birthday parties for everyone with a birthday that month. This fellowship develops relationships and trust among the leadership. It’s also enjoyable to invest time with like minded citizens. We welcome all comers who think this country, state and or county is on the “wrong track.” Our next Team Meeting is this Saturday June 1st. Reach out if you’re interested. Tom@tommccrackenforchaffeecounty.com
Also on June First
Tom will be at the Salida Farmers Market hanging out and helping at the Bakers Booth. Of course, you won't be able to ignore him in his merch, bling and blazer. Stop by and support local businesses ans stroll through the first Market of the season, June 1st in the Salida F Street Park at 5th.
Rodeo Dance Sponsor
If you have not been to a real western rodeo, put this on your list! It has all the big city events and a few family friendly events as well but you are CLOSE to the action. You can feel the horses gallop and see the sweat on the riders!
This girl climbed on her horse by herself. She'll be doing barrel races soon enough.
The McCracken Team
We're sponsoring the dance on Friday night at the VFW hall in BV at 8:00. Then on Saturday at 5:30, the party moves to the rodeo grounds as it comes alive with all the action. Sunday, the final events and categories round out an exciting weekend. See their social medial posts: Collegiate Peaks Rodeo. This is the 103rd annual event. With tradition like that, your bound to get some great new memories.
FIBArk Float Entry
After thoroughly enjoying the engagement and public interaction at the Memorial Day Parade, the McCracken Team has decided to enter the FIBArk Parade as well. Look for us on June 18th! You will not be able to hide as we travel the route from the park to the river. We’ll match. We’ll have a BIG boat. We’ll be the ones having fun and we’ll have give-aways. One thing we learned from the last parade is the special technique of handing out candy to children. YOU MUST ALSO HAVE SOMETHING FOR THE PUPPIES! It was so fun to see so many dogs as well as children lining the street during the walk. Next time, Dog Treats!
July 4th Festivities
This is pretty far out for sharing all the minutia of the day but look forward for a few county staples and new events as well. Parades at BV and Salida. A lighted Bicycle Parade in Salida? Fireworks back at the rodeo grounds. A booth at McPhelemy Park. More merch and bling. More Patriotic colors. (Order extra flag gear now)
Tend to the Garden
Campaigning activities reminds me of a garden metaphor. Early in our process, we are tending to the soil, checking for pH, fertilizers and any needed soil amendments. In the campaign, we are preparing our message, our motivation and justifications for running for public office to engage in this messy process. Plantings seeds and meeting new people are both initial activities filled with hope and expectations of a successful harvest later, like on election day.
Once the garden is planted, daily attention is needed to keep things growing at their best. Pruning, more fertilizers, soil testing and boosting treatments relate to maintaining energy in the volunteer team, sending people on self - help (vacas) to rejuvenate or refresh as needed. Finally, the timing is important. Looking at a freshly planted garden and looking at newly gathered names of voters, both inspire hope in a fruitful outcome at the end. We are doing this for a payoff in the future!
Finally,
I would like to thank the McCracken Team for their support, energy and ongoing involvement in their beautiful and unique gifts and talents. Each member of this team brings such color and hue to the overall painting. From the webpage design to crafty chics to cooks, bean counters and talkers, there is something for everyone. Thank you.
Just in:
We have an opening for an event after July 4th. We are thinking an outside grill / fundraiser event together at a local rancher or resident. Reach out if you are ready.
Paid for by Tom McCracken for Chaffee County. Marge Klein, Registered Agent
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