I created a humble garage business and developed it into a successful 14 year enterprise employing as many as 14 Houstonians.  This business venture allowed me to experience what many small business owners encounter today--meeting payroll, working within a budget, paying taxes and fees like dumpster permits, automatic alarm permits, and sign permits.  Entrepreneurs know that at some point in the life of a startup business, you’re likely to wear any number of hats.  I’m very fortunate to have experience in human resource management, payroll, procurement, marketing, IT, as well as planning, logistics, and operations.

My experience is not limited to managing a manufacturing company.  I also have expertise in public safety emergency preparedness, response, and mitigation.  Working and advancing within a paramilitary organization such as the Fire Department has impressed upon me the importance of preparedness and order.  As a Shift Commander in the Fire Department, my coverage area extends from Katy to Clear Lake (South of I-10), and even though the Fire Department does not exist to earn a profit, you’ll find that it does indeed operate as a business.

My work as a Deputy Chief in the Fire Department combined with my experience as a business owner provide me with a unique perspective and management style that will serve me well when making decisions on behalf of Houstonians.  My 30 years as an emergency responder, combined with small business management skills, have shaped me into the type of leader our city needs now.

I believe that volunteerism and civic involvement are important to building a strong community. As a former member of the City of Houston Environmental Coordinating Council, our team found ways to help the City of Houston operate more efficiently while simultaneously reducing the waste stream. This City of Houston inter-departmental council develops and implements ways to be more environmentally conscious. From something as simple as two-sided printing, to a recycling program for every city department, the Environmental Coordinating Council attempts to make our city cleaner and more efficient.

As a City of Houston Parks and Recreation volunteer Citizen Park Inspector (CPI) I perform periodic inspections on a designated City of Houston park.  The objective of the Citizen Park Inspectors program is to improve the quality of City parks through a partnership involving community volunteers.

The well being of our youth is one of my primary concerns. I enjoy mentoring and speaking to school children about life issues such as leadership, commitment, and goals. As a volunteer in the City of Houston Anti-Gang Office, I mentor adolescents in an effort to encourage positive life choices.

My civic involvement also includes being Vice President of the Cottage Grove Civic Association.

As Mayor, I will draw upon my experience as a public servant, father, civic leader, former business owner, and native Houstonian. I will ensure your comments, suggestions, and concerns are heard.

I humbly ask that you support me in returning Houston to financial order.  Please cast your vote for me in the upcoming November 2011 election.  I'm ready to get to work.