I'm concerned about the state of our country.  (OK, if you actually know me, you know that's an understatement. I am livid, frightened, and outraged about the state of our country!) And I want to make a difference beyond the borders of blue Connecticut.    So I've decided to use my remaining vacation time to go to Texas for a week to work for Beto O'Rourke's campaign for Senate.  (If you don't know, Beto is taking on Ted Cruz, and the race has recently been labelled a toss-up.) I've been in contact with the campaign, and I've been told I'm most needed in Dallas. I'm flying down there on October 23rd. Because I didn't budget for another trip this year, I'm hoping that many of you, my friends, might be able contribute $5 or $10 to help offset some of my expenses.   My flights will be almost "free" because I'll use my airline miles.  But there will be other expenses: transport to and from airports, dog boarding fees for Penny, meals, incidentals, and at least one night in a hotel (as I'm arriving late) .   I'm hoping to find friendly people to stay with for most of my nights down there, and I'm also hoping I won't need to rent a car.  But that all remains to be seen.   I promise that any money that I do not use will be donated to Beto's campaign.  I'm excited about this opportunity to make a difference.  Thanks for your support!