March 12, 2010

 Contact:   Carlos Venable-Ridley

 (712) 251-9527

This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it (e-mail)

Venable-Ridley Officially Announces his Candidacy for Iowa House District 54, State Representative

 Carlos Venable-Ridley announced his candidacy today for State Representative in House District 54.  Venable-Ridley is a 14-year resident of Sioux City and a small-business owner.

  “As a small business owner I will fight for job growth and economic diversity. Iowans want to work and provide for their families. I have a vision for our District –with our people and resources, we can build on our economic foundation to attract new jobs, expand educational opportunities and make Northwest Iowa more competitive."

 In 2008 Carlos was unsuccessful in a bid to be elected to the Iowa legislature District 54 against Christopher Rants. After the election, many supporters encouraged Carlos to run again in 2010.

 With a passion for public service, Carlos will bring drive and commitment to the Iowa House of Representatives on behalf of the citizens of Sioux City, Sergeant Bluff and Woodbury County—House District 54.

 "As a concerned member of this community and father of two, I am especially concerned that a quality life that is available to all our children. I believe the laws and policies we enact today will, for better or worse, affect all of us tomorrow. Our children, our grandchildren, and even our great grandchildren, deserve to have the same economic opportunities for economic and education al growth that we have enjoyed in our lifetime. This should be our legacy to the next generation because everyone deserves a fair and equal path to opportunity."

 Venable-Ridley was selected by former Iowa Governor Tom Vilsack to serve on the 3rd District Judicial Selection Committee.  He has served as a Board member of Girls, Inc., on the Sioux Chapter of the NAACP, the Sioux City Human Rights Commission, and as Treasurer for Mary Treglia House.  Venable-Ridley served as the Executive Director of Crittenton Center, Project Director of a $7.4 million Safe Schools/Healthy Students federal grant awarded to the Sioux City Community Schools.

 Venable-Ridley resides in the Morningside area of Sioux City with his wife of 14 years, Michelle; their son, Carlos II; and their daughter, Alijah. 

 ###