Trained in physics, public policy analysis, and economics, at Tufts University, University of Wisconsin, and University of Minnesota.
Public service experience promoting recycling and responsible waste management for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Minnesota Waste Management Board, and analyzing the efficiency and effectiveness of government programs for the U.S General Accounting Office and the Minnesota State Planning Agency.
Fifteen years as a small business owner and computer consultant solving problems for businesses and government.
RECORD OF COMMUNITY SERVICE
Activist member, officer or board member of numerous civic organizations relating to environmental issues, transit planning, neighborhood issues, affordable housing, police-community relations, civil liberties, and federal deficit reduction.
Tutored at Minneapolis Public Library and at Hennepin County Juvenile Detention Center.
18 year resident of Minneapolis married to small business owner and glass bead artist and author Diane Fitzgerald; two stepchildren and five grandchildren.
POLITICAL BACKGROUND
Was lifelong Democratic Party political campaign worker--a Paul Tsongas Democrat--promoting compassion, equal opportunity, conciliation, realism and practicality. Quit in 1995 and joined Minnesota Independence Party, since renamed the Reform Party. Was seeking a party that was "fiscally responsible, socially inclusive and campaign and government reform-minded." Served as Reform Party's Public Relations Chair and 5th Congressional District Chair. Ran for State Representative for District 59B (SE Minneapolis) in 1996 and received 13 percent in three-way race.
