Dear Neighbor, 

As we celebrate the Fourth of July and our nation's 250th anniversary, I want to wish you and your family a safe and enjoyable holiday weekend. Independence Day is a special time to gather with family and friends, attend local celebrations, and appreciate the freedoms and opportunities we are blessed to enjoy as Americans. 

Summer always seems to move quickly, and I hope this holiday provides an opportunity to slow down, spend time with loved ones, and enjoy all that makes Minnesota such a great place to call home.  

Owatonna Central Park Farmer’s Market: July 4th from 7:00 am - noon 

Waseca Lakefest Freedom Run: July 4th at 7:30 am 

Waseca Lakefest Boat Parade: July 4th at 2:30 pm 

Waseca Lakefest Fireworks: July 4th at 9:50 pm/dusk 

Steele County Fairgrounds Fireworks: July 4th at 10:00 pm 

Now that the legislative session is over, we have entered the interim period, when much of our work shifts away from daily activity at the Capitol and back into our districts through meetings, community events, and constituent outreach. 

I want to make you aware of an important restriction that applies in even-numbered years. We are limited in sending unsolicited mass communications from our official capacity as legislators during the 60-day period before a general election. Because of that requirement, I will no longer be able to send these official email updates beginning July 17th. 

During that time, I plan to continue sharing updates primarily through my Facebook page, and you are always welcome to contact me directly by email or phone with any questions, concerns, or ideas. It is an honor to serve our communities, and I look forward to staying connected throughout the interim. 

Coffee with Tom will be at the Owatonna Chamber of Commerce on Friday, July 10th from 12:00pm –1:00pm (delayed one week due to the Independence Day holiday). 

Coffee with Tom will be at the Waseca Chamber of Commerce on Friday, July 17th from 12:00pm-1:00pm. 

Thank you for your support and feedback, and please reach out if you need assistance in the meantime!