I decided to run for assembly because I can no longer abide the destruction of Wisconsin jobs and the impact it has on families throughout the Fox Valley. I am not a politician, but I have a passion for good government. Smaller, more responsible government allows families to make choices for their own welfare rather than force expensive mandates on them that they don’t need or want. I believe the people of the Fox Valley want to make their own decisions about their lives—this is not the job of Madison politicians and bureaucrats.
Wisconsin is dear to my heart. I was born and raised on a farm in Baraboo, as a 4th generation Wisconsinite. I married Myra in 1975, and we moved to Fond du Lac. For the past 26 years, we have lived in Appleton and raised our family here. Our three sons graduated from Appleton East High School, where their days were occupied by cross country running, track, choir, drama, and forensics. They are married now with families of their own and all live in the Fox Valley. We have three grandchildren who are a blessing to us.
My Christian faith has always been an important part of my life. I am dedicated to advancing the Gospel of Christ. Both Myra and I are active members of Pathways Church in Appleton. John Jay, the first Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, wrote in a letter: “Providence has given to our people the choice of their rulers, and it is the duty, as well as the privilege and interest of our Christian nation, to select and prefer Christians for their rulers.”
Myra and I have lived in Wisconsin our entire lives. My great-great grandfather came to the Wisconsin Territory in 1837. He worked on the construction of the first capitol building in Madison. I have another great-great grandfather who served in the State Assembly in 1869 and 1870.
In 1998 I founded Master Machine Solutions, Inc. MMS is an engineering company with both mechanical and electrical engineers on staff that design custom industrial machinery. I graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering in 1974 and worked for Giddings & Lewis and Kimberly-Clark before starting my business. This has given me real-world experience as an employee as well as a business owner. I’ve been on both sides of the paycheck and, of course, a life-long taxpayer.
I believe it is time to reduce the size of government. Our state simply cannot afford the irresponsible spending that has become commonplace in Madison. If you agree, I would appreciate your vote on September 14.
