From a press release:
McConoughey Listens to Veterans Concerns in East Peoria
East Peoria, IL — Saying that he wants to hear first-hand the issues and concerns of area veterans, 18th Congressional District candidate Jim McConoughey met with Veterans from Central Illinois to simply “listen and learn.”
“While I believe that my 26 years of business and public service experience help qualify me for this position as it relates to job creation, economic development and community assistance, I think it is important to note that I am not a veteran and do not pretend to fully understand the complex issues that veterans face when they return to civilian life,” McConoughey stated. “It is important that I talk to as many veterans in this district as I can and make a concerted effort to listen and understand the needs they have of the federal government.”
The ‘Veterans Listening Session’ was held at the East Side Sports Complex in East Peoria. Veterans from throughout the 18th Congressional District were invited to the event.
“American veterans who served during foreign conflicts and during peace time are our
true heroes,” said McConoughey. ” These individuals were promised health care and benefits and deserve to have what they were promised – the very best we can offer.”
Throughout the campaign, McConoughey has made an effort to visit with Veterans while traveling the District as well as stopping in Veteran’s Halls. It was over the course of that time that he decided he would launch ‘Veterans Listening Sessions’ as he found a very engaged and active sector of the population that needs to be heard.
“I understand that the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan will dramatically increase the number of veterans in America, and our Federal government must be prepared to provide the necessary support,” added McConoughey. “It is important that wounded veterans and those who have served in combat have access to a comprehensive GI bill that provides full tuition, books, fees, and living expenses at any institution to which the veteran is accepted.”
Jim McConoughey is a business leader and economic development professional with 26 years of experience creating jobs and opportunities for communities. His values of hard work and integrity started during his childhood on the family farm. Today, he and his wife Gina are raising their two teenagers in Dunlap in addition to balancing professional careers. Jim is not a professional politician; he is a leader in public service waging his first campaign for elective office. He is a Republican running for Congress in the 18th District; the Primary Election will take place on February 5, 2008.
Tags: 18th District, Jim McConoughey, veterans
Billy Dennis is a former reporter and editor at small daily and weekly newspapers in Illinois and Missouri. He comments on media, news and politics. He also owns and operates 
