Prospective lieutenant governor receives tour, talks shop Tuesday

Democratic lieutenant governor candidate Christina Hale (center) tours the city's downtown Tuesday ahead of the upcoming elections. Hale was accompanied by Greencastle Mayor Bill Dory and briefly by former mayor Sue Murray. Hale could be found visiting many locations Tuesday, including DePauw University, City Hall and Almost Home restaurant. (Banner Graphic/NICK WILSON)

With Labor Day now in the books, election season is officially in full swing.

And with candidates around the country hitting the pavement to reach additional voters, those involved in Indiana's gubernatorial race are proving to be no exception.

Addressing several groups around Greencastle Tuesday was Democratic candidate for lieutenant governor Christina Hale, who currently represents the state's 87th district as a member of the Indiana House of Representatives.

Hale's visit was part of the more extensive Gregg-Hale Campaign that has taken the tandem through many small towns in recent months.

Hale, who regularly handles policies at the state level and has dealt with, for example, water infrastructure needs, economic development and education, spoke on the importance of the implementation process during her tour.

"That's why we're here, to get the 'practical' behind the policies," Hale said as she and Mayor Bill Dory made a brief stop downtown. "It's such an amazing journey -- and such an important one.

"We all get distracted sometimes but it's so important to stay focused on why we do what we do."

Following a luncheon visit to Almost Home restaurant, where Hale spoke on issues facing many women around the country (Banner Graphic story at bannergraphic.com/story/2336688.html), Hale and Mayor Dory took the time for a quick drive around town where Dory explained some of the city's achievements and developments.

"Most of the Stellar (Community) things are winding down, but we have other projects that were stimulated as part of the Stellar effort that will continue to run," Dory explained as he drove. "We were one of the first two communities to be selected, so we were kind of a guinea pig for several projects that have turned out really well."

Mayor Dory and Rep. Hale ended their drive with a private meeting at City Hall ahead of a speaking event at DePauw University.

After visiting Greencastle Tuesday, and in addition to time spent at the Putnam County 4-H Fair in July, the area seems to have left an impression on the candidate.

"I'll be back," Hale said appreciatively when she completed her tour. "I will be bothering you all again."

Hale will be on the ballot come November alongside Democratic gubernatorial candidate John Gregg.