I want to be a state representative for the same reason that Leslie and I became foster parents. For the same reason that I have made 4 trips to New Orleans since Hurricane Katrina to help families rebuild their lives ... I have a responsibility to serve others. I spent the first ten years of my adult life working in the business world. Most of those early years were focused on making money and personally getting ahead. I found that ultimately, just serving myself was not enough. I think we have a responsibility to serve and work for each other.

One of the things that has been lost in elected office in our nation is a sense of "public service". I think that ultimately, service to others rises above service to self. The happiest couples, the best parents and the best politicians are people who focus on the needs of their partner, the needs of their children and the needs of their neighbors above themselves.

Personally...I have a very good life: I couldn't ask for a more wonderful partner in my life. I have a wonderful life! I am truly fulfilled by being a parent, we are financially stable, I am in good health, I'm one of the lucky ones that have health insurance, I have a great job, I come from a great family, I get along great with my in-laws ... I could go on and on ....

I have been and am blessed every day. There is no one who is born into this world who should not have the same opportunity and blessings that I have had. Every child should have access to a good public education. Every family should have adequate health care. Every person should live in a safe environment. Absolutely no child should have to suffer abuse and neglect. Every parent should be able to live a life where they can love, nurture and provide for those they love.

This is why I became a husband. This is why I became a father. This is why I became a foster parent. This is why I went to New Orleans. This is why when Leslie and I found ourselves pretty financially stable we gave (and continue to give) to help others.

This is why I want to be a state representative. I have been truly blessed in my life and I don't deserve this wonderful life more then my neighbor. As such, I need to work to serve my neighbor and help create a world where he/she has the same opportunities that I have had.