About history Frontiers and a Bit About Myself

In this fast changing and challenging culture we live in, people hunger for hope and inspiration. Young people especially are looking for guidance and direction, and stability. There are so many stories from the treasure trove of the past that can be a source of motivation and encouragement. The purpose of this blog is to post thoughts and ideas that come from the wellspring of history in hopes of making a small but positive contribution to the public discourse of our day. 

In exploring the past, values and lessons are learned. New perspectives arise, and hope and encouragement are born anew, and our spirits are uplifted. The words of Paul of Tarsus are the  guiding principle behind these blog posts: "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things." Your thoughts and comments are always welcome!

Now what can I say about myself? A native of Washington, D.C., I grew up in Northern Virginia and spent summers on the family farm in southwest Michigan. It was the best of both worlds. From an early age, my parents gave me an exposure to the rich history that surrounded my upbringing in metro D.C., and for that, I am forever grateful. My elementary and secondary education was received in the Alexandria, Virginia public schools. No words are adequate to thank the public school teachers of Alexandria, Virginia. Their instruction was exceptional! 

My graduate degree (MPA) is from Western Michigan University and I received a BA in History from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. I also attended the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia. Before being elected to the Michigan House of Representatives and the Michigan Senate, I was employed in the field of marketing for a healthcare products manufacturer.

Among the most formative experiences of my life, I count living in West Africa as child and later attending T.C. Williams High School the eventful year depicted in the Walt Disney movie Remember the Titans. My wife Helen and I reside in Kalamazoo, Michigan and retain the family farmhouse on the Michigan/Indiana border built by my great-great grandparents. I currently serve as president of the Kalamazoo Abraham Lincoln Institute, a Michigan nonprofit corporation organized to celebrate Abraham Lincoln's 1856 visit to Kalamazoo in a sustained and creative way. Kalamazoo is the only place in Michigan where Mr. Lincoln made a public appearance.