Candidate Biography (submitted by candidate):

I live in the Whitehead area of Alleghany County with my Wife Janet & our seven adopted Dogs.  We Co-Own & operate Sparta Florist & Gifts in Sparta.  Prior to owning Sparta Florist I was employed with Chrysler Corporation for 23 years as a District Service Manager.  I have an Associate Degree in Automotive Service from Ferris State University & A Bachelor Degree in Automotive Management also from Ferris State University.

Currently I am a member of the Sparta Lions Club, & serve as Vice President of the Alleghany County Save-A-Pet Foundation. I also serve on the Alleghany Merchants Association / Sparta Revitalization Committee, and active on the Alleghany County Blue Ridge Parkway 75th Anniversary Committee. 

Former accomplishments include:  President of the Lantern Green, & Willows Creek Homeowners Associations, Past President of the Charlotte Amateur Hockey Association, & former Certified Advanced level Coach & Referee with USA Hockey.  

Alleghany County like most Counties will have some tough Budget choices in the next few years.  We face declining funding from the State of North Carolina & from local sales tax revenue.  And on the other hand we have ever increasing needs from State mandated items, daily operating expense, & services for the residents of Alleghany County.  The key will be new & innovative ways to stimulate the economy of Alleghany County. 

I believe County Government needs to work hand in hand with the local Chamber of Commerce to stimulate the local economy, with programs designed to keep County residents supporting local merchants, as well as programs & events designed to draw outside trade & tourism to Alleghany County.  We also need to focus on the unemployment issues in the County, by not only looking to large employers to replace those lost, but also work with the Small Business employers on growing & expanding to provided employment growth. 

Alleghany County also needs to expand youth programs with the assistance of the local Faith Based organizations to help establish a strong local pride feeling with our Youth and provide a support system.