Will Frank Foster Succeed as Michigan's Youngest State Representative?

Background: Frank Foster is handsome, youthful, and energetic, elected by a strong majority to represent Michigan's 107th District. Watching him speak on the Mackinac County Courthouse lawn last Memorial Day, I'm a huge fan and proud to express my support of his politics. Monday morning started off with an early "meet and greet," at Java Joe's Café in St Ignace, Michigan. Talk about walking into the lion's den! Joe stands prominent in the local Democrat party, serving on the County Commission and City Council in recent years.

Joe and my conservative husband Warren have fun debating the issues. They share many common interests, the same age, work similar professions (both run small start-up businesses as seniors,) which are located in close proximity on the North End of St. Ignace. We highly recommend Java Joe's to our customers, and the Durms return the favor, ushering people up the road to Fort Algonquin, our own family enterprise . They're so very kind, even including a blurb in their popular expanded menu. Many groups mention specifically they come from Java Joe's recommendation. Who says that Republicans and Democrats can't work together?

The Setting: The coffee shop filled with area residents who came to see their local representative, asking questions and stating concerns about grassroots issues. Our enthusiastic, dedicated 24 year old state representative shows a flair for connecting with his constituents, having a firm grip on the issues, and following up on their agenda. Frank greeted familiar faces with a smile, making it a point to introduce himself and speak with every voter.

Citizens and Voters: The coffee shop filled with "all the usual suspects" from the rank and file Republicans of Mackinac County. A trio of ladies turned out to be representatives from Eastern Upper Peninsula (EUP) Great Start Parent Coalition. A township supervisor from Rexton, small business owners, a Mackinac Bridge employee, and a retired couple interested in politics rounded out the field, with one regular patron staying to enjoy the show. In a separate meeting, U.S. Rep Dan Benishek earned pointed criticism from this group by arriving late and merely giving a speech, with little interaction time for the voters. Our State Representative didn't make that same mistake with our group meeting.

The crowd greeted Frank Foster and his aide with enthusiasm, obviously enjoying his quiet, polite and intelligent demeanor. The State Representative showed interest and knew the background of every issue raised, and seemed modestly surprised that everyone in the place (save the owners and that one woman) came just to see him. He's crossed the district regularly, with coffee shop meetings, attending local basketball games, luncheons and a variety of venues highlighted on his Facebook profile page.

Our First Issue is Education: At this meeting, education was the main topic, introduced by the Great Start ladies. Frank Foster complimented them on their dedication, apparently in reference to other conversations with their group. These mothers were well spoken, prepared for the agenda, and expertly briefed their plea for continued funding. Because of the audience, all educational levels were addressed. One interesting conversation focused on universities and colleges which collectively lobby for public funds, yet seek to maintain distinct autonomy otherwise. Frank lauded Michigan Technological University for focusing in on Engineering degrees, while Northern Michigan University boasts top drawer Nursing, Biology, and Education programs. To avoid duplication of effort and expenses, higher learning centers might specialize and narrow the field of degrees offered. He briefed the crowd on plans to foster vocational course study in secondary schools. One woman recommended an initiative to require colleges in Michigan to delay their start dates past Labor Day, mirroring the public school program . In her words, it's impossible to hire local college kids, because they leave before the hectic Labor Day weekend.

Local Concerns: Mark Eby, owner of our beloved area attraction Castle Rock, expressed concern over rising Mackinac Bridge Toll charges, conservation and hunting items, and the Mackinac Ferry Debate on Mackinac Island. He was outspoken in his support of Sheplers Ferry maintaining their franchise. If Sheplers Ferry service is eliminated, Mark stressed that he would not only refuse to go to Mackinac Island, he would discourage his customers from venturing there too. Foster was well aware of the situation, citing the costs to a family of four and familiar with the particulars of Straits Area controversy. The Township Supervisor worried over loss of funding from the repeal of the state assessments on personal property taxes. Foster explained that most large industries successfully lobby to exclude themselves from these taxes, so small business owners disproportionately shoulder the burden. The Township Supervisor emphasized the funding loss would shortchange local schools. Further, a gas pipeline leak in that area demands a strong local response team in place, requiring funding through tax dollars.

State Funding and Budgets: One interesting debate flared up over Java Joe's inquiry on salaries in the state legislature. Foster was ready for that one, briefing he reduced his own salary by 10 percent, along with his staff, and underscored an additional 5 percent cut to the office budget. His office boasts only two aides, with Michael Krombeen busily transcribing notes from various citizens and keeping his boss on schedule. Frank spoke of his own background as business manager for his family's construction firm, based in nearby Pellston. He underscored his support of funding the Pure Michigan campaign, promoting local tourism via internet and commercial ads.

Closing Arguments and Farewell! Finally, our time with the state representative ended, as Frank was due in Petoskey for another group meeting at the Roast and Toast. Foster quietly paid for all the coffee, and posed for a few pictures. I even cajoled Java Joe and Sandy to pose with him, and by that time they were glad to comply. It's easy to see why this hardworking young man won the election last November, and he certainly charmed the crowd at Java Joe's in St Ignace! He's at ease talking about Green Bay's win, addressing small business owners and their concerns, speaking with retired seniors, or interacting with young mothers worried about state-funded learning programs for children. Frank Foster epitomizes the ideal of intelligent, compassionate, and concerned representative of our rural district in Northern Michigan, the Straits Area, and the Eastern Upper Peninsula. Remembering his busy morning, Joe admitted, "I LIKE him." This is a wonderful compliment and huge endorsement from our County's most outspoken Democrat! Be sure to check out Frank Foster's web pages and stop at the local coffee shop when he's in town. It's a great forum for interaction and information on the issues.

Frank Foster's House GOP Page

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Michigan's Legislative Districts