The Shadow
COVINGTON, VA (VR) – I am seeking election to the position of Covington City Council member representing District 2 of the city. I am motivated to seek this office as a way to serve the residents of District 2 and to promote the growth of the entire city.
I am retired now following a 42-year career at WestRock (now Smurfit-Westrock). While employed at the mill, I completed the Millwright apprenticeship program in 1987 and continued to work in the maintenance department until I retired.
In addition to my maintenance work, I volunteered to work with the Safety program on both a department level and mill wide level. I was elected as
the Union’s Safety Director. In this position, I helped address safety issues anywhere in the mill, helped develop safety programs, and worked closely
with the Salaried Safety Director to help shape the safety culture and practices in the mill.
During my last 5 years at the mill, I volunteered to work in the Maintenance Planner- Supervisor Program. The work in this position emphasized
thorough planning, attention to detail, coordinated work with others, and personal responsibility.
Throughout my career at the mill, I looked for ways to help both my fellow employees and to help the company be successful.
While attending a previous church, I was elected as a deacon multiple times by the church congregation and additionally elected Chairman of the
Deacons by the other deacons. This leadership position allowed me to work closely with the pastor to develop programs, establish budgets and
update the church’s bylaws.
I have been successful at each of these positions for multiple reasons. I have been blessed to work with smart, caring and dedicated teammates.
The mutual aid and respect between us enabled our projects to be successful.
I am a born again Christian and I try to reflect those values in every area of my life. Honesty, integrity, and respect for the individual are a few of the
traits that I place a priority on.
I want to encourage all eligible citizens to become familiar with each question that will be on the ballot November 3. Please research the
questions and discover the intention of each question.
Early voting began September 18, 2026.
Last day to register for this election is October 23, 2026.
Election Day is November 3, 2026.
