Sen. Mary Olson starts session with new staff

Sen. Mary Olson, DFL-Bemidji, starts the 2010 session with new staff. Joining her office as legislative assistant is Carissa Masloski, a University of Minnesota graduate starting her fourth Senate session. She replaces Pat Wallner, who retired after nearly 20 years working in the Legislature. Also new is Bemidji native and Bemidji State grad Christopher Zempel, who will serve as Olson's intern. Under a new Capitol Fellowship Program for young Minnesotans with disabilities, Paivy Ballayan will work one day a week as a fellow in Olson's office, working on prepared projects, attending Senate meetings and participating in group projects with the 10 other fellows. He is currently working on a master's degree at Minnesota State Mankato. From left are Zempel, Ballayan, Olson and Masloski. Submitted Photo