(Photo courtesy of Dixie Minatra)
Where were you born and raised?
I was born in Tennessee. My parents moved to Gadsden when I was in the first grade.
What is your occupation?
I am retired with a 40-year retail career with both Rich’s & Belk department stores, both corporate and store jobs. My last position was Regional Vice President for East Tennessee for 17 Belk stores.
What are your favorite and least favorite things about your job?
My favorite was that every day was different. My least favorite was not one thing – I loved it all!
What made you decide to run for your position?
I believe I have the knowledge, experience and qualifications to handle any issues that arise and resolve them effectively. With a brand-new mayor and several new city council members, leadership experience is crucial.
Tell us about your family and pets.
My family is my big circle of friends that I have had since first grade and more.
What school or schools have you attended?
Elliott Grammar, General Forrest Junior High, Emma Sansom High School and Jacksonville State University, from where I graduated with a degree in Marketing and Economics.
What do you like to do in your free time?
Watch SEC and NFL football.
What would you say is your greatest accomplishment?
That I have made some great friendships along my retail career and still have many of those friends who I talk with regularly.
From where do you draw wisdom or inspiration?
It would be easy to quote a famous person, but both wisdom and inspiration come from ordinary people just like you and me. From our elders, I drew my wisdom, because their life experiences are pure gold. From our youth, I draw my inspiration with their energy and enthusiasm, their hunger to learn and their ability to see the world without prejudice. Our youth have the desire to make our world a better place, and I cannot think of anything more inspirational.
Name the one person that has been the most influential in your life, and why.
I had several retail bosses who taught me how to make sound decisions, earn trust, keep promises and be an effective communicator.
To what do you credit your success?
I am a good communicator and can juggle a lot of balls in the air at one time.
What is your favorite thing about this community?
The people are at the center.
What would you like to see change in the community?
More kindness with the people in our community and pride in our neighborhoods.
What are your goals for the City of Gadsden and what existing areas would you strengthen?
My goals for the city are to make it a better place to live, work and play. The mayor sets the vision as well as the plan, so, I would work closely with him/her to assure that District 6 has a prominent place in both. I would work to strengthen the working relationships with the city council members.
What is something surprising that many do not know about you?
Music is a must in my everyday life!
What is your favorite quote?
“Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”
What is on your bucket list?
Oregon Wine Country
What advice would you give yourself as a child?
Be a competitor, but have fun doing it!