Why am I running?

Whenever the discussion turns to why I'm running for Florence City Council, I sometimes get the double-barreled question: "Are you nuts? Why are you doing this?" From conversations I've had with other candidates, I'm not the first person to hear that.

When friends or family ask, I usually shrug and say, "It's always been in the back of my mind. I just never had the time." That answer works well enough for those who know me, but since many of you don't know me personally, I thought I owed you a better explanation.

The answer is simple: I enjoy helping people.

Whether it was working on my high school yearbook, volunteering with the Florence Fire Department, helping friends build their homes, or coaching young boys and girls on the value of a good bounce pass, I've always found satisfaction in serving others. During my career, I enjoyed solving problems and mentoring younger chemical operators. Service has been a common thread throughout my life.

Now that I'm no longer raising a family or building a career, I have the time to serve my community in a different way. I would be honored to represent you on the Florence City Council.

I believe those of us who have been fortunate enough to gain experience over the years have a responsibility to give something back. With age comes perspective, patience, and judgment. I hope to use those qualities to help make Florence an even better place than it is today and to leave it better than we found it.

Over the next few weeks, I'll be sharing more about my background, education, and work experience. In the meantime, if you have any questions, please visit my Contact page. I'd love to hear from you.