I was raised in southern Indiana and graduated from a small liberal arts college near the banks of the Ohio River. After working four summers on Lopez, I moved to Orcas in 1973. I joined the Fire Department in 1982 as an EMT and became a paramedic in 1984. That became my full time job both in Skagit County and on Orcas where I was the supervisor for EMS for many years. I met my wife, Melinda, on the island and we have two grown sons. We have embarrassed them both by performing with the Olga Symphony and in local theater.

I cannot imagine a better career for me than the work as a medic: I had the good fortune to work with many caring doctors, nurses, medics and EMTs during those years, and am proud of the system that we helped to create. Now, with the advent of the Health Care District, I see a path to create a stable medical center responsive to the needs of our rural island life. I'm joining a dedicated group of commissioners who share a passion for the community and excellent health care for everyone on the island.