Richard’s Bio

‘The Time is Now’ was the campaign slogan during my run for mayor of Mason City in 2002, but the message hasn’t faded. The message of seeing each moment as an opportunity for change was the core of my campaign and remains central to everything I do in life. Always a believer in taking advantage of the moment, I see each moment as an opportunity to challenge and live richly.

The goals to lead, achieve, and positively affect the world around in which I live shape each day of his life. Both in my career and my personal life exemplify my challenges and achievements.

Growing up, I was involved in many activities. I served in student government for two years which could be called the beginning of my involvement in politics. But it can actually be traced back to 8th grade when I first learned about government and the political process. My political experience culminated in the 2002 campaign for mayor. Drama club, speech team, and the Youth Task Force all brought new experiences which continue to drive me to this day. I also participate in The Trevor Project, Habitat for Humanity, Toastmasters, and formerly worked full-time for the US Tennis Association.

I am a four-time CIML All-Academic Athlete and an academic letter-winner. Additionally, I was an all-state speaker and the recipient of the Iowa Bar Association’s American Citizenship Medal in 2002.

I believe that each of us has the ability to overcome any obstacle in addition to having a positive impact on those around us. In the campaign for mayor, I finished third, but proclaimed on election night that it had been a victory. I hold a degree in public relations and recently finished my first book, Anything is Possible.