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I know this city well, and my roots run deep here. I have a desire to serve this community. I grew up on Wood Street in Buckhannon. My dad drove a taxi, and my mom worked at the Rainbow Restaurant. I graduated from Buckhannon-Upshur High School in 1973.
I currently live on Thurman Avenue and have also lived on Camden, Pocahontas, South Florida Street and Hart Avenue.
I am a veteran of the United States Navy and also served in the Buckhannon detachment of the National Guard. I am a retired police officer of the Buckhannon Police Department. While serving, I earned the Medal of Valor and Purple Heart. I was formerly an instructor, certified in the following fields: D.U.I. Detection Instructor, Domestic Violence Instructor, Seizing Electronic Evidence, Pursuit Policy and trained Crisis Negotiator. I also had Administrative and Financial Officers Training.
In 1990, I was honored to be named Citizen of the Year by the Jaycees. In 1993, I was honored to receive the Outstanding Citizen Award by the VFW.
I have served in several organizations, including: President, Fraternal Order of Police Central WV Lodge #114; State Trustee, WV Fraternal Order of Police; Board of Directors, WV Chiefs of Police Association; Governor’s Workgroup on Underage Drinking Prevention, appointed as the Law Enforcement Officer for the state of WV by Gov. Manchin; Governor’s Planning Committee on Domestic Violence, appointed by the WV Chiefs of Police Association; and Planning and Evaluation Committee of the ABCC’s Underage Drinking Grant.
I have volunteered for the following organizations: Little League Baseball Coach, Babe Ruth Baseball Coach, Youth Basketball League Coach, Basketball Coach, Youth Church League, Flag Football Coach, Youth Church League, Referee, Little League Football, and Scout Leader, Boy Scouts of America Pack 100, Pack 128 and Troop 128.
My campaign will focus on infrastructure and all city services. I know the importance of keeping good-quality employees. Pay must be competitive with surrounding counties, and our workers must have good working conditions. I will be committed to a balanced budget and transparent spending while prioritizing essential services over discretionary projects. Having lived on a fixed income for several years, I understand how costs affect our citizens.
I will do everything I can to support our local small businesses and look for federal grants to improve our city. We also need to invest in and prioritize our children. I will also look to address dilapidated houses, especially any that are used by drug addicts. I will be receptive to citizens’ issues and be available to discuss those issues.
If I were to sum up my campaign in two words, I ask you to vote for me on May 12 because “I care.” I truly and honestly care about the City of Buckhannon and the citizens of Buckhannon. If elected, I will serve this city with an open mind and a willingness to work hard. Thank you in advance for any consideration that you give me.
