Service and Experience
United States Navy—4 years active duty
I served in the U.S. Navy as a journalist on the U.S.S. Oriskany from 1973-1977. The U.S.S. Oriskany was an aircraft carrier that deployed with approximately 3,500 men. As a journalist, I was responsible for putting out a daily newspaper, running the radio and television stations, anchoring the nightly news, conducting tours while in port and working on the ship’s yearbook. During my time in the Navy, I was able to visit The Philippines, Kenya, Hong Kong and Singapore. My family and I lived in Alameda, Oakland and Long Beach in California and in Indianapolis, Indiana.- School Teacher – Public and Private
I taught 4th grade in Milaca for three years and 3rd & 4th grades at St. Mary’s School in Pine City, where I also served as Principal. These experiences left me with a great appreciation for the work our teachers do. These experiences also reinforced in me the belief that parents are ultimately responsible for their children’s education, whether received in public, private or a home school setting.
- Small Business Owner 20+ years
I have been a small business owner for over twenty years. In my capacity as a real estate appraiser I have served Kanabec, Pine, Aitkin, Chisago, Sherburne, Mille Lacs, and Isanti Counties. I have not only knocked on the doors and served the people of this district for more than two decades, but I have seen first hand the ups and downs of the market, the positive and negative effects of conservative and liberal economics, and the frustrations of government intrusion on small businesses. The people serving in the Legislature need to understand that business is good for Minnesota and we need to encourage its growth.
Mora City Council
As a new council member in 1997, I refused to vote to close the Mora swimming pool until a plan was in place to build a new pool. Although I lost this initial vote 4-1, I worked to create a plan that would first, involve MAYRA in running the pool and then involve the public both financially and otherwise. Subsequently, a plan was approved to a build a swimming pool with private and public contributions of $1 million. $200,000 was borrowed for slides and has since been paid off.
I supported a family pass program for the Mora City Pool.
As Councilmember and Mayor I supported a plan to bring utility services to Arthur township with annexation. Then, as Mayor I proposed that the annexation agreement with Mora and Arthur township be accelerated to take effect sooner than 2011. This was completed in 2007.- Public Utilities Commission
At the request of the Mora City Council, I agreed to serve on the Mora Public Utilities Commission. During my time on the Commission we voted to lower electric rates on customers in Mora and the other areas we served.
- Mora Housing and Redevelopment Authority
Mayor of Mora
The issues that are important to me in my bid as your state representative are the same ones that were important to me as mayor of Mora in 2002-2006.
- LOWER TAXES:
While serving as councilmember and Mayor, Mora retained one of the lowest tax levies per capita of any city in Minnesota in my 4th year as Mayor. (Link to data.)
- IMPROVE BUSINESS CLIMATE:
As Mayor I initiated a plan to create a Mora Economic Development Authority (EDA). I served as its first president.
- CONTROL SPENDING:
As Mayor I initiated a comprehensive study over the cost effectiveness of the Mora Police Department in 2003. This resulted in a 25% reduction in officers (from 8 to 6) without layoffs.
- OPENNESS IN GOVERNMENT:
I initiated an “open forum” for Mora City Council meetings. As Mayor, I had an “open door” policy whereby any citizen could meet with the Mayor at his business office at anytime. This will continue if I am elected as your state representative.
As Mayor I initiated publishing a quarterly newsletter to Mora citizens from the city.
As Councilmember and Mayor I proposed publishing city council minutes in the Kanabec County Times and televising council meetings on cable television. Although both of these efforts were unsuccessful, I continue to support efforts to keep the public informed about their local government.
- Kanabec County Commissioner
The issues that are important to me in my bid as your state representative are the same ones that are important to me as a county commissioner:
- LOWER TAXES AND CONTROL SPENDING:
As a Commissioner, I voted for no increase in taxes for 2010. (Link to Kanabec tax table). I also voted to decrease Commissioner salaries by 3%.
- OPENNESS IN GOVERNMENT:
I proposed to televise commission meeting on cable television. Although this was unsuccessful, I will continue to fight for openness in government.
American Legion Honor Guard
As an honor guard, I have attended the funerals of many fallen ex soldiers. It is always a moving experience to witness the family members as they say goodbye to their loved one. It is gratifying and humbling to be of service during this time for a veteran’s family. - MAYRA Board of Directors
During my time on the board of directors, we did two things of importance.
1) We paid off the $125,000 debt on the Civic Center and 2) we installed heat for the benefit of spectators at hockey games.
I also coached youth baseball for a many years.
