The trail begins with this letter

Paul E. Smith Candidate for 1^st Vice President of the PGI

During the past 5 years as we have held elections for board positions I have become more and more convinced that for the PGI to continue to be an effective organization, and to once again become a growing organization we need to encourage the members to step into leadership positions.  Good progress was made and this past election three new board members replaced long standing and very productive board members.  I believe there needs to be an orderly transition at each election with some new board members replacing those who have served us well. This will allow good transfer of information and experiences learned from veteran board members to first timers, while regularly invigorating the Board with infusions of new ideas and new energy, and continuously growing a cadre of leaders to take us into the future.   In this year’s election for 1^st VP, I want to offer the Guild another opportunity to elect a candidate with youthful enthusiasm and life experience that can build on the foundation already established.  I have always had great respect for this organization, and I would consider it an honor to be elected to an office on the PGI board. 

For years I have watched while dedicated members of the PGI board have worked hard and long, giving of themselves and their skills.  I have decided that now is the right time for me to step up and do my part. 

PGI Involvement:

I have been an active member of the PGI for nineteen (19) years.

During the past ten (10) years, I have held a position on the safety team, running the B-Line, as B-Line Boss.

Contributing author for PGI Display Operators manual

Certified PGI Display Operator and Certified Operator Trainer

Helped for many years on the Display Operators course at PGI conventions

Presented seminars on Pyrotechnic Chemistry at the conventions for over ten (10) years

Professional and Personal Information:

Work- Purdue University past twenty one (21) years as a Chemist in the Chemistry Department

Presented workshops to college and high school teachers on using pyrotechnics to teach chemistry in various locations of the United States and Canada

Lead Operator for Ramsey Pyrotechnics for past sixteen (16) years

Hold a Type 20- Manufacturing License

I am 56 years old and married thirty three (33) years to my best friend Lana Smith

Two grown children and two grandchildren

Home Town, Mulberry, Indiana

Mulberry, Indiana Town council president ten (10) years

Deacon at local church for twenty five (25) years

My goal is to energetically work with the current board, and be there to listen to you, its members, with any concerns you may have.  I have the desire to carry out actively the 1^st VP duties, and the time and the vigor to serve YOU, the members of the PGI.

I take great pride in being a member of this organization, and would count it an immense privilege to serve as your next 1^st Vice President!

Very Sincerely,

Paul E. Smith