Page 40 - B2B Spring19

GETTING TO KNOW your LEGISLATORS
BY: ALANA CUNNINGHAM & CATHY BURWELL
1. WHAT IS YOUR JOB/ BUSINESS/CAREER – OUTSIDE OF BEING A LEGISLATOR?
I am a Financial Professional for Sullivan Financial Group,
where we do Financial
Planning and assist our clients in investing for life’s events - college, major purchases and retirement. Additionally, my husband Joe and I own and operate a ranch, raising Black Angus cattle, registered White Park Galloway cows and grow malt barley and alfalfa hay.
2. WHAT CHALLENGES DO YOU FACE IN KEEPING YOUR JOB/BUSINESS/CAREER GOING WHILE SERVING THE 4 MONTHS OF THE LEGISLATURE?
I’ve been very fortunate! Dan Sullivan is incredibly supportive of my foray into politics. His Aunt, former Rep Gayanne Masolo, was the Representative of my District for 4 terms, so he’s a pretty familiar with the requirements and pressures of being in o ce. While my absence from the o ce hasn’t been easy, I’m still able to check in electronically and keep in touch as needed. During the transmittal break, I had intended to spend time back in the o ce. We had started to calf the week before and I ended up staying home helping Joe tend newborn calves during the subzero temps.
3. WHAT BACKGROUND AND/OR SKILLS FROM YOUR JOB/BUSINESS/CAREER DO YOU FEEL GIVE YOU EXTRA EXPERTISE TO BE A BETTER, MORE EFFECTIVE LEGISLATOR?
I feel as you need to be a great listener and commu- nicator. Organization is a must, but also be willing to be exible and roll with the schedule of the day, because some days are absolutely crazy! The Senior Legislators have been incredible mentors! I’ve known many of the legislators, State Administrators and lobbyists for nearly 10 years. Being able to draw on their expertise and knowledge, makes those relationships is invaluable. You can’t be afraid to ask question or for advice. And you have to truly believe in what you are doing each day and work towards a goal – creating a better Montana.
4. WHAT HAVE BEEN SOME REWARDING MOMENTS SO FAR THIS SESSION?
Obviously my 3 bills - State Employee Pay Plan, Deputy Mason Moore Memorial Highway and HB 92 that have been passed and signed by the Governor are huge highlights. I have carried 8 bills this session and the last 2 are working their way through the process. Working with the Legislative staff at the Capitol has been very rewarding as they are the most helpful, kind and courteous people I’ve ever had the pleasure to
work with. Honestly, being at the Capitol, soaking in
this whole experience, is unlike anything I’ve ever done before. It’s a ton of work, even more reading and always full of learning opportunities!
REPRESENTATIVE JULIE
DOOLING
HOUSE DISTRICT 70
Due to the busy legislative session, some legislators were unable to respond:
KIM ABBOTT - House District 83
MOFFIE FUNK - House District 82 BECKY BEARD - House District 80 MARY CAFERRO - Senate District 41
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BUSINESS TO BUSINESS CONNECTION