Age: 61
Residence: Delray Beach
Time in the Legislature: Four years
Political Affiliation: Democrat
Spouse: Peter
Children: Natasha, Marcello, Taylor
What did you want to be when you grew up?
I grew up in California, so I either wanted to be a cowboy or actually a cowgirl or the first female president of the United States.
What do you consider to be your biggest political achievement?
My father was a decorated combat veteran of the U.S. Army in World War II. He was in the infantry and was wounded, so my biggest political achievements have been getting bills passed to provide service to veterans. That's something I take very personally and work very hard on.
What was your biggest political faux pas?
My biggest faux pas occurred my first year in the Legislature. I trusted Republican legislators to think of their people more than their party. It floored me that politicians would forget why they were elected and basically who brought them "to the dance."
Who in state government do you most admire?
My hero in state government is Chief Financial Officer Alex Sink. She's a mom, wife, banker and still manages to run the finances, fire department, insurance enforcement and others in this great state. She exemplifies the best in our state.
Who in all the world do you most admire?
John F. Kennedy, because he brought us programs like the Peace Corps and got us into space. Martin Luther King, because he was able to change race relations in this country in a non-violent manner. Mahatma Gandhi, because he brought down an empire in a non-violent manner.
Who is your favorite lawmaker of the opposite party and why?
Rep. Dean Cannon because he's principled, he has the ability to get his points across without offending anyone and because he can bring both sides together.
What do you remember as being the wackiest constituent request?
Getting somebody out of prison and then finding out that the reason they wanted to get out of prison was to go after the person who put him there.
What is your favorite place in the world?
Naples, Italy because my mother was an Italian war bride and she was from there. I also feel that it's a very beautiful and romantic city.
What is your least favorite household chore?
I can think of a few that I'm not that fond of. But, I'd have to say my least favorite would be vacuuming.
