Polish Times - Czas Polski - tygodnik polski w Detroit, USA

On Saturday, February 6, Andy “Rocky” Raczkowski, who is running for the U.S. Congress in Michigan’s 9th District, held a “Campaign Strategy and Townhall” meeting at the American Polish Cultural Center in Troy.

Three sessions (at 9:00 am, 11:30 am and 2:30 pm) were an opportunity for constituents to meet the candidate and find out about his program and his background.  Guests were allowed to ask questions.  Any questions (“No question is off limit,” said Raczkowski).  That truly allowed people to tackle on issues close to their heart. Raczkowski said that he is running for the U.S. Congress as a tireless champion for the hard-working families of Michigan.  He grew up in Farmington Hills, graduating from Harrison High School.  Rocky earned a Bachelor of Arts in political science and psychology and went on to his Master’s studies while serving in Armed Forces.  In 1998, while serving in the State Legislature he earned a law degree.  Rocky is also fluent in three languages and believes in a life of learning.

He enlisted in the U.S. Army Reserve at the age of 17, serving four years as an infantryman and reaching the rank of Sergeant.  In 1990, Rocky attended Officer Candidate School, where he received his commission and became a 2nd Lieutenant in the infantry.  He has served in many leadership and command positions and is currently in the rank of Major.  Rocky is also a paratrooper and certified Pathfinder.

A lifelong citizen of Michigan, Rocky volunteered on his first campaign at the age of 11 and won election to the Michigan House of Representatives in 1996.  After winning re-election in 1998, he was chosen by his fellow legislators to serve as the youngest Majority Leader in the nation.  In 2002, Rocky waged a spirited battle against Senator Carl Levin, a campaign that gave him valuable experience, building coalitions, raising money and running on a statewide level.

Rocky is Chairman and CEO of Star Tickets, a Michigan corporation serving the ticketing and entertainment industry all across North America.  He is an active member of the community, with service at his local Chamber of Commerce, Optimists, Jaycees, ALS of Michigan and many other organizations that give to the community.

Rocky has never hesitated to leave his home and family in Michigan to serve the cause of freedom in places like Afghanistan and Somalia.  It was on one of those missions as a team leader in the Global War on Terror, Rocky earned the Bronze Star for meritorious service during combat operations.

For us, Polish-Americans, it seems like its “no-brainer” who the next US. Representative should be.  Rocky has not changed his name to one that would be easier to pronounce (as some of the other public figures do), he was raised to have his Polish heritage in his heart; he understands Polish community very well (as he is one of us).  And what is most important - it is a chance for a Polish community to have representation in Washington.

At the Saturday’s meeting Rocky’s campaign manager, Ruth Disz presented a list of “10 ways to make sure Rocky is the next US Representative.”  Most of them do not require being resident of the 9th District.  Visit Rocky’s website - www.rockyworksforus.com to find out how to help.