Hello Sticks of Fire readers, I am honored to be among the contributors here. My focus will be on politics, both at the city and county level — with some state level analysis thrown in for good measure. I write my own blog, The State of Sunshine, on Florida politics, so you can expect some cross-posting.
Now, about me…
I was born in Lansing, Michigan and grew up in the suburbs of Rochester, New York. I moved to Tampa in 1990, to attend the University of South Florida and made this my home. As a political science major at USF, I was involved in the university community by serving in student government. I served as Student Body President from 1993-1994.
From 1995-2004 I worked side-by-side with members of the Florida Legislature on issues that affect our state. I worked for five members of the Legislature during that time, moving around Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties. I also managed successful campaigns in 2000, 2002, 2004, and 2006. However, I was unsuccessful in my own bid for elective office, losing a race for State Representative in 2002.
In the community, I was a football official with the West Coast Officials Association, and served on the Board of Directors of both the Gulf Coast Chapter of the Children’s Home Society, Tampa Junior Chamber of Commerce. I remain active with the University of South Florida Alumni Association and my fraternity’s local alumni and active chapters.
I am currently the Director of Public Strategies for Affari Edge, a full-service advertising, marketing, and public relations company. While I can help with traditional public relations services, we are shifting our focus to help companies and organizations use social media.
Take a look at all of Jim’s contributions to Sticks of Fire.
