A little bit about me...

By Jack Smith

In 1976, two friends and myself rode skateboards across America, this adventure opened the door for me to pursue a career in the skateboarding industry and later, the sporting goods industry. My employment experience includes working in advertising/marketing/promotions for small and large companies, as well as being involved with start-up ventures. I have also created and operated my own small businesses.

In 1995/1996 I served as the Executive Director of the Eldora Area Chamber of Commerce and Development Corporation. I was responsible for all business and retail promotions as well as, member recruitment and retention programs. I also coordinated special event scheduling and promotion. In this position I served as the city's liaison between state officials and private business to attract new businesses to the area. During my employment in Eldora I helped to establish a non-profit corporation for the restoration of a 1920's art deco movie theater. I was responsible for attracting Warner Brothers Film Studio to shoot the feature film "Twister" on the outskirts of Eldora. I also worked with the Iowa River Greenbelt committee to promote recreation and preserve wildlife along the stretch of the Iowa River that runs through Hardin County.

I am currently the Marketing Director for VS Athletics, a leading track field equipment supplier. In addition, I am the owner/publisher of The Skateboarder's Journal, a news/social networking site for skateboarders of all ages. In 2009 I published my first book, "The Skateboarder's Journal - Lives on Board".

I have served as a volunteer basketball and track coach at Morro Bay High School since the 1980s. I staged the World Slalom Skateboarding Championships in Morro Bay between 2001-2005 and the National Championships in 2008. Each year the event attracted over 100 competitors from 15+ countries and generated over $100,000 in revenue to Morro Bay businesses.

Morro Bay needs to retain its small town charm, while at the same time wisely grow its retail/business and residential sectors. I also support the efforts to strengthen the local commercial fishing industry, create a maritime museum and to position Morro Bay as a destination location for eco/active-tourism.

In these challenging economic times we need to be open to all options to strengthen Morro Bay's future. Working together we can create a positive environment for smart growth while at the same time retaining the character of Morro Bay that we all love.

My campaign is not accepting any financial donations. It is funded through the sale of campaign tee-shirts.

If elected, I promise to listen to you, the citizens of Morro Bay.

I would appreciate your support.

Sincerely, Jack Smith