Like most of us, my journey through life has been enlightening with many ups and downs. I was born in the small town of Goldsboro , NC. My parents were divorced when I was an infant. This led to me living with my maternal grandmother, my aunt and uncle, and their two children and then spending my weekends with my mother if she was able to have a weekend off. I was very fortunate to have family that cared so much for me during a very difficult period and environment.

      My days as a child in that situation allowed me to see the struggles so many working families face. I saw my mother have to make choices between buying groceries and paying rent. I saw that every dollar mattered and nothing should be wasted. Looking back, these were very hard times, but because of my family's love, I was happy and able to grow and prosper. The values they ingrained in me make up the core of who I am.

      I attended public schools my whole life and after graduating from high school I attended NC State University. I lived with my paternal grandparents, who without a doubt were the guiding light of my whole life. My goal ahs always been to be at least half the man my grandfather was. I knew if I achieved that, I would be a success. My grandparents were typical of what is now referred to as the “Greatest Generation.” Wise, compassionate, generous, yet disciplined, and working and didn't suffer fools gladly. I still discover lessons from them everyday.

      Since graduating from college, I have worked with thousands of families and helped people achieve their financial and life goals. I have started my own successful business and managed over 200 million dollars of assets, both of individuals and corporations. I have been very fortunate in my career due to hard work and the assistance of many great people who have helped me along the way.

      My lessons in life, both as a child and as an adult have taught me the importance of saving, planning and being responsible for my family and myself. However, I also believe that we do not live in a vacuum and that community matters. There are things our government can do and should do to help people prosper and achieve success. Government should not be a hindrance but rather a resource. It should help provide opportunity, but demand responsibility.

      My grandfather taught me both though his profession as a State Employee (Agricultural Extension Agent) and by personal example every day that we all must give back. Now, I have the time, passion and ability to serve and make a difference. It's in honor of him that I am offering myself forward.

      Now, there are also some selfish reasons for my candidacy. I have three daughters under the age of five and I want to make sure all of our children enjoy the same opportunities that I have been blessed with in my life. Improving our educational system, our environment and our economy is a responsibility we have to all of them. In my heart, I know that we cannot make a difference in the future if we do not act today!

      My experiences growing up in a small town and as a successful businessperson in our Capital City shape the values that I will take to the State Senate. I believe that we should have a government that promotes opportunity, but protects our children, our seniors and our environment. A government that helps people get ahead in life, but that is mindful of the limited resources we have and uses them efficiently. As your State Senator, I will work hard, effectively and efficiently for you.