☕Your Coffee, Your News Channel and Why I’m Not Budging

Recently, one of our Heutmaker & Ishee campaign volunteers was asked by a kind gentleman if I’m going to change my mind about who I am. And let me tell you, the only thing I might change my mind about is what my costume will be for Halloween in two weeks. If you’ve got ideas—witch, astronaut, disco ball—drop them in the comments. I’m open to suggestions, but not about who I am.  

Let me set the record straight: I’m in my fifties, living an amazing life here in Russell with my incredible wife and family, and I’ve never been prouder of who I am. This isn’t a last-minute plot twist from a bad 1990s movie. Like anyone who finally finds themselves—whether at 15 or 75—I got here through years of reflection, grit, and chasing congruence on my own terms.  

I’m not going to change my mind about who I am, just like you’re not going to suddenly rethink your favorite news channel or give up coffee. But hey, if you are up for a little self-reflection, courage, and authenticity, I know a great therapist who can help you on that journey to change the channel—literally or metaphorically.  

The Modern News Cycle is Designed to Keep Us Outraged on a Daily Basis

And for anyone wondering if people just wake up and decide to be someone else—nope. Research shows that when people 

take the time to make their lives match their truth, they rarely look back. Finding oneself and purpose in life isn’t a phase—it’s a homecoming. Sure, some people do make a U-turn, and that’s okay too. Everyone’s journey is their own, and I respect that.  

The point is: everyone deserves a life that feels like theirs. I found mine—and it’s fabulous. If you’ve found yours, I’m genuinely happy for you. If you’re still searching, I hope you find it soon. And if you’re wondering whether someone whose life journey has taken the turns mine has belongs in public service, I’ll say this: people who know who they are tend to show up with clarity, compassion, and conviction.   

That’s exactly what I bring to the table, in addition to my experience with budgets in business, two Master's degrees and one is in Business Administration, and the ability to listen and be transparent—that’s a lot I bring to the ballot and hopefully to the Russell Township Board of Trustees. Please vote for Heutmaker & Ishee on November 4, or before while early voting is available.