About Me

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ABOUT ME

This is my first step into the political arena, but I am no stranger to leadership and service. Having served honorably in the United States Marine Corps, I know how to lead, take risks, and make tough decisions. Some of the duties that I have had were Reconnaissance Marine, Marksmanship Instructor, Mortar Section Leader, and Physical Training Instructor.

In December 1981, Brigadier General James Dozier, the deputy Chief of Staff of NATO’s Southern European land forces was kidnapped in Verona, Italy by Red Brigade terrorists. Brigadier General Thomas Kelley was stationed in Naples at the time and his family was visiting him. I was one of two Marines who were called to provide security. We rotated watch, one inside their house and one outside at all times. Being trusted with his life and the lives of his family members is an honor I will never forget.

Me in Oman, 1981.

My father was a minister for the Disciples of Christ Christian Church. My mother had a biology degree and worked in cancer research in Washington, D.C. After I was born, she was a stay at home mom until my brother and I entered high school.

I currently attend a local Baptist church.

Me in my dress blues.

Me, Jennifer and Richard in church, about 2002.

I have a son and a daughter from a previous marriage. My son Richard was born in Beaufort Naval Hospital while I was stationed at Parris Island, South Carolina. My daughter Jennifer was born in Tripler Army Medical Center when I was stationed in Hawaii.

My son is very proficient with computers. In fact, he is currently teaching himself programming and web hosting.

My daughter recently enlisted in the United States Army. She just completed her basic training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina. As a father, I am proud and concerned, and I pray for her safety every day. If military service were safe, there would be nothing special about the people who join. But they join knowing the risks, especially now, and we’re all safer because of them.

I am well educated. I earned a year and a half of college credits while I was in the Marine Corps. After my children grew up, I was able to resume my post-secondary education. I have 4 years of college credits. I have an Associate's Degree in Liberal Arts from Saint Petersburg College, and I am working toward my Bachelor’s Degree in Biology from University of South Florida.

My knowledge is not limited to college. As you peruse this site, you will see that I am well read and familiar with a wide variety of subjects. My proficiency in American National Government allowed me to pass a CLEP test in lieu of taking the actual class. I look forward to participating in any debates with my fellow candidates.

From now until the election, you are going to get to know more about the candidates - the good, the bad, and the ugly. I will be comparing and contrasting myself with the competition - my worthy opponents. Please do not interpret my disagreements as attacks. Remember, if I criticize one of my opponents’ stands on an issue, that this person had the courage to take a stand publicly, and he or she deserves respect for that. We are your friends and neighbors. We are good people who love children and puppies.

I will address the issues and I will take a stand.

When I tell you my good points, I’m not bragging, I’m giving you my résumé. When I tell you my bad points, I’m not being humble I’m being honest. I will try to give you an accurate picture of myself and show why I am the best choice for Mayor of Saint Petersburg.

You'll learn more about me as you explore this site. I have provided links to some particular issues that will give you more information. You may wish to click on them.

Any reference to any church or other section 501(c)(3) corporation, any person, website or organization, its officers, or members, does not constitute an endorsement by said corporation, its officers, or its members.
Any reference to the Armed Forces of the United States are personal in nature and do not constitute an endorsement by the Armed Forces of the United States of America, its officers, or its members.