Why should people care about history?

Our journey in life is all about the stories. What do I mean by this? Each one of us has a story to tell about our lives, our experiences and our journey on this earth. Collectively we have a story to tell about the "who, what, when, where, how and why" of our lives. History is the telling of our stories. It's about learning the common threads that bind us all together as mankind. History has a way of teaching us about the trials of our lives. From these lessons we learn that what we do everyday, in some small way, makes a difference in this world. Many people don't realize the importance of our stories.

What people or events helped spark your interest in history?

There are so many people in my life who have taught me to be grateful for our history. I can start in my own family and move to my friends and relatives. I can tell you about the people who have taught me to appreciate school and the lessons it teaches.

I do believe my experience as the Sheriff of Carver County has spurred my local interest in history. With our 150th anniversary this year I have investigated where this Office has been. It has been so enjoyable to find the stories of this honored Office and the men who have come before me. I consider myself blessed to be the elected sheriff of the people we serve. I am overwhelmed when people I have yet to meet come up to me, introduce themselves, and say "You are my sheriff, I voted for you." Isn't that what our American history is all about? Our freedom to vote, to have your voice heard in the democratic process of electing your leaders.

I take the oath of office very seriously because I believe so deeply in our country's history.

What are compelling stories from our communities?

This is such a difficult question to answer in such a small space. If one goes back and reads about our history, we can talk about the first settlers to the county and what they had to endure just to settle here. We can be so proud of our first residents because they toiled from sun up to sun down clearing this land to farm and raise their families. The hardships they had to face is hard to image when you consider the quality of life we enjoy today. Our compelling stories have to be one of faith, family and a community of hard workers. We have been blending our ethnicities for as long as we have laid a claim in this country called the Minnesota territory. What a proud tradition to be a part of.