TO THE EDITOR:

I understand Jim Vrchota is running for a seat on the City Council in North Branch. Please let me tell you a little about him.

First, to introduce myself, I have served as a Council Member, Planning Commission Chair, Airport Commission Member, Lion President, and Community Theatre member in Maple Lake, Minn, where I met Jim Vrchota.

Jim Vrchotaís leadership helped turn a withering downtown, and a slowly dying city, totally around. This is no idle praise, his experience with financing, enthusiastic personality, and insightful view of problems made him a wonderful council member. I am certain he will be the same for North Branch.

I acted with Jim Vrchota in the community theatre, where he, as is his custom in life, unselfishly helped everyone be their best. I remember dozens of times hearing the words ìdonít worry, you can do this, Iíll helpî come from Jimís mouth, said to many different people.

With the local Lions Club, you knew Jim Vrchota would be there to pitch in, no matter how dirty a job. It may sound corny, but if Webster is looking for a picture definition of leadership, he could put in a photo of my friend, Jim Vrchota. Thanks for listening, we sure miss Jim here in Maple Lake.

Mike P. OíLoughlin
Maple Lake, Minn