Candidate for
Council Member; City of La Verne

In 1983 I graduated from the University of La Verne and started my own insurance brokerage. In 1984 I married Lori Castellano and we purchased our first home on 3rd st, built by my great great grandfather David Blickenstaff in 1918. We have two wonderful children, Stephanie a 7th grader at Ramona, a Terrific Soccer player and troubadour in Todd Helms JR High choir program and Trevor a 4th grader at Roynon Elementary who aspires to be a Hunter / Fisherman.

The new voice we need on the City Council should be a voice that is established and active in the community. I have deep roots in La Verne, but it's my community involvement that sets me apart from the others and puts me in touch with the issues. I believe I can represent our entire community.

1. I am the only candidate with a parent in La Verne's retirement community
2. I am the only candidate with children in La Verne Public Schools.
3. I am the only candidate that owns both a Home and Business in La Verne

I have been deeply involved in our community. I am a 19 year member of the La Verne Rotary Club where I am President Elect. My responsibilities are Vocational Director in charge of Teen Leadership Camp, Rotary Youth Leadership Awards, Two college scholarships, And the Teacher mini grants. I co-started this mini-grant with Dr. Roger Hanawalt five years ago and to date we have given over $12,000 to La Verne teachers.

I support our public schools. In addition to the Rotary teacher mini-grants, I am a PTA Board Member at Roynon Elementary School, I am an Elected member of the Roynon School Site Council, I am a member of the Roynon Beautification Committee and Room Parent.

I volunteer with the Bonita Boosters to raise funds for high school athletic programs, and the Todd Helms choral programs as sound coordinator at the La Verne Church of the Brethren.

I am also active at church. Currently holding the positions of Board Member, Deacon, Fellowship Committee Member, and Sound Coordinator.

I volunteer with my son's Cub Scout pack, in charge of the pinewood derby. And proud to have sponsored my daughters' first place AYSO soccer team the RedHotts.

I am a fifth generation resident of La Verne, and will be the 4th generation to serve the city. My great grandfather served 8 years on the council from 1926 to 1934; my grandfather served 19 years as fire chief from 1952 to 1971. And my father served 20 years on the council from 1962 to 1982. When it comes to serving our community ...I walk the walk.

I respectfully ask for your vote March 4th Thank you