I'd like to share a little bit about myself, the values and the people that have shaped my character. I was raised in Southern Rhode Island, growing up in the beautiful town of Richmond. My upbringing in this wonderful community, along with my education at Chariho Schools, has had a profound impact on who I am today.
I have always been proud to call myself the child of a hard-working single mother, who worked as a union pipefitter at Electric Boat to provide for our family. My mother's dedication and work ethic demonstrated to me from an early age the power of hard work and love. Despite the challenges we faced, living paycheck to paycheck, love and compassion were never in short supply.
When my mother faced the devastating loss of her job at Electric Boat, it would have been easy for her to give up and accept defeat. However, she refused to let adversity define her. With unwavering determination, she embraced the challenge and embarked on a new career path that allowed her to continue making a difference in people's lives.
After obtaining her CDL through a job retraining program she joined the Paratransit department of RIPTA. It was not simply about finding a job for my mother; it was about finding a purpose. She understood the importance of connecting with those she served on a deeply personal level. She took the time to listen to their stories, understand their struggles, and provide not only transportation but also a sense of companionship and support.
My mother instilled in me the belief that education and curiosity can take us far in life. She encouraged me to never stop learning and asking questions. She always reminded me to remain humble and never forget where I came from. This mantra became a guide and a light for me as I embarked on my own journey.
One of the most important lessons I learned from my mother was the importance of treating others with kindness and respect. She taught me to embrace diversity and to accept people without judgment. This lesson, to treat others as I wish to be treated, has stayed with me throughout my life, shaping my interactions and relationships with others.
She taught me the value of resilience and determination.
She showed me that no matter the circumstances, working hard and staying focused on my goals would pave the way for success. Her unwavering dedication and her willingness to work overtime to provide for me and my sister instilled in me a strong work ethic that I carry with me to this day.
In addition to her work ethic, my mother was an extraordinary role model when it came to being present and engaged in our lives. She never missed a school event or a sporting competition, always finding time to attend and show her support. This taught me the importance of being there for the people we care about and being actively involved in their lives.
My mother's empathy, understanding, and love were the guiding principles that shaped our family dynamic. She always prioritized our well-being and ensured that we felt supported and loved. This experience has made me deeply aware of the struggles that families face, especially single-parent households, and the importance of creating a society that supports and uplifts one another.
I would also like to share with you the incredible person who holds a special place in my heart and who has greatly influenced my life. My wife, whom I am fortunate to call the most important person in my life, has been an incredible presence for over 20 years.
From the moment I met her, I knew she possessed exceptional qualities that set her apart. Her caring nature, unwavering compassion, and strong work ethic have left an indelible mark on the lives she touches. As a mother of five children, she has demonstrated immense dedication and love in nurturing and raising our family.
In addition to her role as a mother, she also serves as an educator in the Chariho Regional School District, she understands the importance of providing quality education to every student. Her passion for teaching shines through in her interactions with her students. Every day, she goes above and beyond to provide a nurturing and inclusive environment where her students can thrive. Her genuine care for their well-being is evident through her patience and loyalty, which are two of her greatest strengths. The impact she has made on her students' lives is immeasurable, and they see her as a mentor and role model.
Growing up in a family that emphasized strong values, my wife firmly believes that family is the most important thing we have. The lessons instilled in her by her own wonderful family have shaped her into the incredible person she is today. Her love for her family, and her belief in its importance, has been passed on to our children.
Beyond her professional and familial commitments, my wife is also actively involved in our community. She selflessly volunteers her time and lends a helping hand wherever it is needed. Through her involvement, she has demonstrated a deep care for others and a genuine desire to make a positive difference in the lives around her.
I cannot express enough the tremendous influence my wife has had on my life. Just as my own mother has played a significant role, my wife has been a source of inspiration, support, and love. The women in my life hold immeasurable importance to me, and I am grateful for the love and guidance they have provided.
As I run for office, I reflect on the values instilled in me by my mother and wife and the responsibility I feel to make a positive difference. I believe in promoting policies that support working families, provide equal opportunities for all, and create an environment where our children can thrive.
Today, as a candidate for State Senate for District 34, I carry these values with me. My experiences have taught me the significance of hard work, love, compassion, and the transformative power of education. They have instilled in me a strong sense of empathy, understanding, and the unwavering belief in fairness and equality for all.
If elected, I promise to be a public servant who listens to your concerns, fights for your rights, and works tirelessly to improve our community. I will be a voice that amplifies the needs of every citizen, ensuring that everyone has access to quality education, fair opportunities, and a fulfilling life.
I humbly ask for your support and trust in this upcoming election. Together, let us build a brighter future for our community, guided by the principles of hard work, love, compassion, acceptance, and respect. Let us remember where we came from and use that to shape a more inclusive and prosperous society for all.