Candidate for
Proposed City of Arden Arcade

Courage Under Fire
Matt is a man of action and doesn't just talk about finding ways to help people. On April 9, 2010, while driving on Watt Avenue, Matt noticed a home on fire without any emergency personnel on scene.

Matt pulled over to help, and upon learning that a man was still trapped inside being burned alive, Matt grabbed a garden hose and crawled through the burning home until he located the man. Matt pulled the man to safety, and once emergency personnel arrived, they were both taken to the hospital.

For his heroism, quick thinking, and selfless dedication to others in need, Matt was honored by the California State Legislature on the Senate Floor by Senate Resolution in June, 2010.

In the Community
Matt is a native of Northern California and lives in Arden Park with his wife Dana, daughter Sarah age 7, and son Dylan age 4. Matt means business and he will fight for the interests of California's working families. He is often described by those who know him best as straight-up, genuine, and reliable.

As a Big Brother mentor for Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS), Matt places great emphasis upon the importance of mentors for youth to help them realize their potential.

Life Changing Events
As a child, Matt was caught in a crossfire, shot, and left for dead. After watching a loved one shot to death in front of him, his life changed in an instant. He underwent extensive surgery to save his life. As he struggled to understand how everything he had known was suddenly turned upside down, and life's promises suddenly seemed empty.

Thrust into "the system" as a victim of a violent crime, Matt soon saw firsthand how unprepared California was in helping victims of violence.

This experience would shape and change Matt for the rest of his life. Matt became motivated to change the system and decided to volunteer at the State Capitol as a legislative staff member.

A Hard Worker
He worked hard and moved up the ranks to become Chief of Staff in the Senate for John Vasconcelos. He worked 12 years for the State Legislature.

In 2004 Matt resumed being a small business owner. As an advocate in governmental relations, he represents small businesses in the areas of renewable energy, economic development, public safety, health, transportation, environment, manufacturing, water, education, civil rights, technology and HiTech issues, and of course protecting small businesses.

Matt Knows the Issues
Matt has often been called by the media for interviews on public safety and energy matters, offering opposing viewpoints to the Speaker of the Assembly, Senate Pro Tempore, and even the Governor. He has been a repeat guest on POWER 106 in Burbank; The John and Ken Show, KFI AM640 in Burbank; and on The Bruce Maiman Show, Talk 1530 AM, KFBK in Sacramento, and Tamara Dorris on In Love With Sacramento radio.

Throughout his time with the California Legislature and in advocacy, Matt has regularly worked with numerous state agencies to foster partnerships, coordinate events, and steward legislation.

In his continued investments in youth, Matt is a three-time honorary panel member for the State Board of Education in hearing the annual recommendations of the California Association of Student Councils (CASC). In preparation for their presentations, CASC delegates frequently conferred with and sought input from Matt on numerous issues pertaining to education and public safety matters.

Matt has also worked on numerous political campaigns as either a Campaign Manager, Political Consultant, or support staff.