(JUNEAU) - Representative Bill Stoltze (Chugiak/Mat-Su), came to Juneau this session with some locally cultivated talent. Two months into session, Rep. Stoltze and his team are working hard for the Valley, and they all have a vested interest in the community because they are members of it.

Legislative staffers Laura Cramer and Ben Mulligan are both natives of Palmer. They moved to Juneau for the legislative session. Along with Chief of Staff Kelly Huber, they make up Rep. Stoltze's team.

Laura Cramer was born in Anchorage and grew up in Palmer. Cramer is a 2003 graduate of Palmer High School and plans to attend the University of Alaska Anchorage in the fall, majoring in criminal justice.

Of her experience thus far, Cramer says, "I never knew how interesting the political process could be. I'm really enjoying being a part of it. This continues to be a great experience for me."

Ben Mulligan is a lifelong resident of Palmer, having been born at the Valley Hospital in Palmer. He is the 4th generation of his family to make his home in the Mat-Su Valley. Mulligan a graduate of Palmer High School and the University of Wyoming, spending summers working for the Alaska Department of Fish and Game.

Mulligan tells the story of his interview with Rep. Stoltze. "In typical interview attire, suit and tie, I came into his Eagle River office. The first thing he said to me was, 'Awfully dressed up for a Palmer kid aren't you?' After that, I knew I'd have no problem working for Bill." He goes on to say, "I'm enjoying working for the legislature. It's gratifying to know that I can have a positive impact on my community."

Rep. Stoltze is thrilled that he was able to bring two such qualified and enthusiastic young people from his district to work for him in Juneau. "Ben and Laura have been great additions to my team," Rep. Stoltze said. "The fact that they both have ties to the district is very beneficial. Being from Palmer, they bring an understanding of the needs of our constituency because they are my constituents. I am pleased to have them both on staff."

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