The Mike Bertelsen Project

President Theodore Roosevelt was back in action at the Osco Community Church on Friday, August 1st. I learned about this at Hamilton and was extended the invitation by John Zahm, campaign coordinator for Lawrence Bruckner. I was very pleased to meet the folks there and see their facilities. The hospitality extended to me was fantastic.

President Roosevelt, played by Joe Wiegand, talked about being in the arena. He mainly focused on the arena of politics, where ideas come together for the common good. Where a person can take a stand and debate and compromise to help people and government move forward. President Roosevelt said, "To serve as well as lead, that is the make of a true politician." Theodore Roosevelt was first elected to the New York House of Representatives when he was 22 years old.

The top picture is myself with T.R. and Vicki Bull. The bottom picture is John Zahm, T.R. and Lawrence Bruckner. The t-shirt reads, "Speak softly and carry a big stick; you will go far." One of T.R.'s famous quotes.

Lawrence Bruckner, Republican candidate for the 71st State Representative seat, held an event at Hampton which featured none other than Theodore Roosevelt! President Roosevelt is played by Joe Wiegand, who is a professional member of the National Association for Interpretation.

Joe did a marvelous job and I was really pleased with the historical content he had in his presentation. Mr. Roosevelt was responsible for setting aside 230 million acres of land for the national parks. He also fought corruption and political greed in New York City and the New York State Legislature. He mentioned Lawrence and myself and admired our willingness to serve in the Illinois Legislature. I was very pleased with that!

Mr. Wiegand will continue his tour through October 27, 2008, T.R.'s 150th birthday. That will conclude at Oyster Bay, NY, where the Roosevelt home and family cemetery are. By the way, my aunt and uncle, Sam and Carol Rausch live in Oyster Bay! They have been there since 1978. My aunt is a teacher and private tutor and my uncle (Uncle Sam) works in the fur business in Manhattan. During the 2004 Republican National Convention, his firm took the week off. His office building is only two blocks from Madison Square Garden where the convention was held.

Joe said he will try his best to personally visit Carol and Sam or give them a call! I was particularly honored by that. Sam and Carol have been to the Roosevelt historical site several times.

The event was held at the Heritage Center in Hampton. A fantastic facility for Teddy to take the stage! The pictures include Lawrence, Mr. Roosevelt and myself. The bumper sticker reads: "Do what you can, with what you have, where you are." A quote from T.R. Look for more pictures from this event in the future.