Business Background & Experience

In 1981, a partner and I began O & S Trucking, Inc., a brokerage and transportation company—in 1991 I acquired 100% of the shares. We began our fledgling enterprise on the second floor of a used truck dealership with nothing but an old desk, chair and phone. Today, nearly 500 families owe their livelihood to that old desk, chair and phone.

I am no stranger to tough times; 1981 was a very difficult time economically—often referred to as the most serious recession since the Great Depression. Unemployment and interests rates were both very high. However, through strategic planning, hard work and fiscal responsibility my business survived to become a $75 million company.

I also used this same strategic planning, hard work and experience to successfully lead, as chairman of the board, two large industry associations—one national and one statewide. As a result, I have been recognized as a business leader by various professional entities locally, regionally and nationally. This business acumen, derived from nearly 30 years of hands-on experience, is what I bring to my candidacy. And this experience is what I—as well as many supporters—believe this city truly needs from its new Mayor. I look forward to working with the new city manager, city council and you to work on a long-range strategic plan for the city of Springfield.

From 1987 through 1994 I served The City of Springfield as Councilman at Large, Seat D.

Included in my tenure was one term as Mayor Pro Tem. My service to Springfield on Council was an experience of a lifetime. I will always be grateful for that privilege to serve.

Now I have the time and great desire to return to the business of serving the city and I assure you I have only what’s best for Springfield at heart. I want to see Springfield sustain its strength and qualities for the benefit of my children and grandchildren. I intend to help build trust and integrity in our city council. Trust must be earned. Integrity sustains. I will work to earn and sustain both every day.

Professional Service Recognition and Awards

It has been my honor to serve as chairman of the board of one of our industry’s largest national associations and one statewide association representing thousands of constituents. To head these organizations required strong leadership, strategic planning, responsible stewardship and a clear vision for growth and development.

Coincidentally, I also see these as prerequisites for the office of mayor.

Missouri Motor Carriers Association: Past Chairman of the Board of Directors; Current Chairman of Executive Committee; member Board of Directors

One of my most cherished honors was receiving the highest award bestowed in the Missouri trucking industry, the Frank G. Campbell Outstanding Service Award from the Missouri Motor Carriers Association of America in 2005.

Truckload Carriers Association: Chairman of the Board of Directors 2007 – 2008; Current 1st Vice Chairman 2007 – 2008; Current Chairman of Shipper/Carrier Relations Committee 2000 – present

American Trucking Association: Board of Directors; Vice President at Large; Image Committee, Environment Committee; past Research Advisory Committee member

Other Professional Awards: 2005 Professional Excellence Safety Improvement Award for the Year 2004 from Great West Casualty; 2001 Leggett & Platt Strategic Partnership Award; TCA Fleet Safety Awards in 1997, 1998, 2001 and 2002; and TCA Fleet Safety Grand Prize in 1997