Being a downtown business owner who is deeply concerned with saving and preserving one of Logansport's few remaining historic treasures, the State Theatre, I bring commitment to finding solutions to our infrastructure and the bolstering entrepreneurialism throughout the city (not just downtown). We must find a way to encourage and assist local business owners who, frankly, are often on their own to risk everything while large corporations are given incredible incentives and tax breaks.
As a journalist for 17 years, I believe strongly that citizens have a right to know exactly how their money is being spent, and will steadfastly demand transparency, especially in all matters that concern the distribution and spending of public funds.
I am not beholden to any political party and have voted for democrats, republicans, and independents in the past (I've always voted for the person, not the party). Having been away for 17 years, I have no political axes to grind or personal grudges.
I have worked as a union member and in management. I believe those experiences will serve me well as we try to mend political divisions between the city and county.
Education: 1990: LHS
1996: Bachelor of Science, Ball State University College of Communication, Information, and Media. Major: Journalism (specialty in graphics and design)
Occupation/Work Experience: Owner of The State Theatre; Teacher: Commercial Art at Century Career Center at LHS; 17-years at The Philadelphia Inquirer, where my last post was Deputy Managing Editor
Previous political experience: None
Family & other biographical information: My wife, Della, is the proud mother of two stepsons.
My mother just turned 80 and is more active than most people half her age
My father died in 2002. He was a Korean War veteran, former railroad worker, and 30-year employee of Nelson Screw Products, and probably the hardest working man I've ever known. I pride myself on trying my best to work as hard as he did at every job or task I've even taken on.
Other interests & experience: I am a musician, singer, photographer, artist, and author.
In 2011, my historical analysis of Logansport, "...But Not Forgotten," was published, which sold out in less than 18 months.
I am on the board of Civic Players of Logansport and the Cass County Arts Alliance, and have worked extensively pro bono for those organizations, Little Turtle Waterway, and the Cass County Historical Society.
I was also among the key players in producing "Birth of a City," which celebrated Logansport's 175th birthday through a historic retelling of the city's vibrant past through photos, stories, and music.