I am incredibly grateful to be elected to serve another term on the Dane County Board. I am grateful for the trust you place in me to represent the voices of the Northside. It makes for a very busy schedule of events and meetings, but it fuels my soul. I love this work. Thank you for all your support.

2020 has become incredibly challenging. The arrival of COVID-19 has turned our world upside down. I never imagined I would be teaching my students from my living room. I never imagined not being able to hug my parents or not being able to get my hair cut. Yet here we are.

When times are tough, Mr. Rogers helps me. He reminds me to look for the helpers. There are helpers everywhere. Health care workers and scientists are certainly in the forefront. There are also the people making sure we have groceries and other supplies we need. The essential workers are finally emerging as the true superheroes they have always been. Neighbors are coming together to support one another by donating food and making masks. The helpers give me hope.

Even though we are living as isolated from others as we can, please know that the work of the county government continues. I am available through calls, texts and emails. Essential county meetings are still happening. Meetings are currently online and are posted through the same means as before. Community members are still welcome to comment and speak at meetings via the phone. Directions to testify and/or view meetings are posted with the date and time of each meeting. Your thoughts and opinions are still valuable.

Please feel free to contact me with any concerns or issues. I can be reached at 608-335-6827 or ritt.michele@countyofdane.com.

Stay safe.