Born in Marquette and raised on a family farm with a cow/calf herd, horses, pigs and chickens. I shared chores with 5 brothers and 4 sisters. For fun, there was horseback riding, sledding, sleigh rides, 4-H clubs and summer fairs at which I showed livestock and horses.

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With a degree in Economics and Statistics from Northern Michigan University, I joined Hormel (maker of famous or infamous SPAM).

College called again. After earning a Master’s degree in Economics from Florida State University, I joined AT&T and enjoyed a rewarding career in marketing and sales. Our family journeyed through six moves and four states with a final move “back” to Michigan.

 

My husband Dean and I share one son. Nicholas is an officer in the Navy JAG Corps serving in Guam.

 

Through the years, we have twice been a volunteer puppy raiser for Leader Dogs for the Blind, served as 4-H parents as Nick exhibited beef and swine at Washtenaw County Fair and supported Nick’s journey through Boy Scouts to reach the rank of Eagle Scout.

 

We did make time for other pursuits....

 

Dean and I twice participated in the annual 7-day bike ride across Iowa from west to east; completing the ride in traditional fashion with a bike tire in the Mississippi River. Who’s up for a bike ride? After long distance biking, it was time to hit the pathways on foot. I twice ran the Detroit half marathon. Crossing the Ambassador Bridge and international tunnel on foot is priceless.
 

I never strayed far from family roots of community and public service. Dad served on Township Zoning Board of Appeals for years and mom served on the Township Planning Commission for years. As a farm family whose livelihood depended upon stewardship of the land, mom and dad were ardent supporters of rural values, protecting agricultural lands and advocated for common sense zoning. Overreach and taxes were a frequent kitchen table conversation.

I have served in elected office for 20 years.

First, serving as elected trustee on tax-supported Franklin Public Library. The board was statutorily bound by laws of Michigan including Open Meetings Act, FOIA, investment policy and MCL Act 164 of 1877 (and all amendments). In addition, the library was located within a designated historical district where Michigan’s strict standards of preservation applied. I lead a design and build team for a building expansion and an outdoor community space. Completed within budget. No new taxes and no bond required.

Also in Franklin, I was an elected trustee. I served on the Compensation Committee, Finance/Budget Committee and Human Resources Committee. Highlights: recruited and hired an Administrator, re-negotiated a multi-year police contract and approved a complete review/update of a comprehensive land use plan. A design charette and “Main Street Franklin” economic development initiative were integral steps to engage the community and businesses to support this defining strategic plan.

 

More recent adventures include a gig with Zingerman’s iconic mail order, member of the U of M athletic department event staff, HOA vice-president and volunteering with Alpha House and the Ann Arbor rotating shelter for unhoused individuals. And we continue to support 4 H livestock auctions as we’ve done for many years.

 

The working farms, pathways, open spaces and friendly neighbors make Scio more than a place. It is our HOME.

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Learn more about why I am running for Scio Township Trustee.