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Knoxville is growing quickly and it will be important to stay ahead of that. I would like to see Knoxville retain its medium-sized feel while accommodating smart growth and sustainable economic development. I think we have all the right ingredients to thrive while still maintaining Knoxville's unique history and charm.

I don't think it's a secret, but the size of Knoxville combined with all the nearby outdoor opportunities make it a special place. Knoxville is large enough to offer all the stuff you want or need, but small enough to get there quickly. You also have access to almost any outdoor activities you could desire.

Focus on education, workforce development and managing growth. Solving tomorrow's problems will require an educated and diverse workforce.

Being a student at UT in the late 90s, I went to a lot of football games. My favorite Knoxville memory was attending the UT/Florida game in 1998 when the vols defeated the Gators on the way to an eventual national championship.

I am currently reading "The Story of Earth: The First 4.5 Billion Years."

Take responsibility for all the things you are involved in no matter if the results are good or bad. It's easy to take responsibility for things when they go well, but you learn the most when things don't go as planned.

Don't think too hard about anything because it's mostly all temporary and trust your instincts.