Saturday evening, I enjoyed traveling with two college students to the grand Genetti Hotel for the Lycoming County Lincoln Day dinner. Mike and Jacey were not only good company for the long trip (almost three hours one way), but were excellent helpers in getting campaign materials out while I met new friends and supporters. Thank you, Mike and Jacey.

The trip was a reminder of just how large the 5th District is—the largest congressional district east of the Mississippi River. It is composed of all or parts of 17 counties. That expanse can create quite a logistical challenge, but it brings a certain truth into focus. The district is so large because it is made up of rural counties. We are rural people and we have rural values—the very values that are so often forgotten inside Washington’s beltway. I’m happy to know that if I am sent to Washington, it will be to represent our family-affirming, community-growing, conservative values.

On the way to beautiful Williamsport, I stopped to meet a supporter in Clinton County. Jerome Abbott is going door to door whenever he has time, passing out cards, bumper stickers and biographical information. And why did I have to meet him? He had been so energetic that he had run out of materials and needed a fresh supply! Jerome, thanks so much for your efforts and for your generous campaign contribution.

That reminds me—it is so important that we raise the funds necessary to compete in this race. Ours is a campaign of substance, but other candidates are already busy “creating an image” with television and radio ads. They have the money—but we have the message. And it’s essential that we be able to get that message out.

So, we’re asking those who can “Max Out” at $2,300 to do so. To reach our goals, we need two people a day who can “Max Out.”

Now, of course, not everyone can write a check for $2,300. But can’t we all write a check for $25, or $50 or $100? So we’re also setting “Grassroots Goals.” Our goal this week is to raise $5,000 via internet contributions. Whether it’s $2,300 or $25, please know how encouraging it is to know that you are willing to “Invest in Courage.”