Welcome to my commitment:
The community I work and live in is the community I have come to love and serve. I believe that family, work, and community are the cornerstones of my life. Each of these elements tie into the commitment I have made to run for State Representative for the 67th District. I personally welcome you to get to know me better.
Strong family ties:
Like many people in the Lansing and surrounding areas, I have lived and worked here my entire life. I was born and raised in Lansing, where my parents instilled in me the value of giving back to the community we live in. Kathy, my wife of 25 years, is a teacher at the Ingham Intermediate School District Career Center. Together we have raised three sons. My wife and I currently reside in Mason.
Strong local work history:
I have a strong local work history as a 28-year veteran of the Lansing City Fire Department. My career began as a firefighter and paramedic. I worked through the ranks, including union representative, with my final service to the department as Fire Chief. As a result of my work experience as Chief, I saw first hand the impact that tough economic times have on employees, employers, and the families connected to both. My professional and educational experience have prepared me as a leader to meet the challenges within our community. My past work experience includes (among other positions):
- Served on the Tri-County Emergency Medical Control Authority Board
- Served on the Ingham County 911 Board
- Served on the Committee for the new Ingham County Regional 911 Center
- Served on the Ingham County Elder Death Review Team
- Former President, International Association of Fire Fighters Lansing Local 421
- Former Member, Greater Lansing Labor Council
- Trustee and Chair, City of Lansing Police and Fire Pension Board
- Former Member, UAW 1753 (8 years)
- Explorer Post Leader, Lansing Fire Department (10+ years)
Strong community ties:
I am connected to the community I live and work in. I am a proven community leader and activist. My family has served the citizens of mid-Michigan in Public Safety for more than 100 years. I believe in working collaboratively with others to meet and resolve tough challenges. I have been involved in a number of community organizations, including:
- Board Member, Mason School District (10 years)
- Mobile Food Pantry, City of Lansing (volunteer)
- “Homeless Connect,” City of Lansing (volunteer)
- Meals on Wheels, City of Lansing (volunteer)
Education:
- Siena Heights University, Bachelor Degree: Emphasis in Management
- Lansing Community College, Associate Degree in Fire Science
- Western Michigan University, Labor Relations classes
