I recently had the opportunity to talk to Kristin Beall, who is running for State Representative for District 25. For those who may not be familiar with the cities that make up District 25, the district is mostly North Lake County (Yalaha, Howey in the Hills, Eustis, Mt. Dora, etc...). For a complete list of cities, view this map. Kristin is a former Miss Florida and is currently the Vice President of Charlie Johnson Builder.

1)     Having lived most of my life in Clermont, I have seen my small town change drastically. You grew up in North Lake County and have seen a lot of changes up there as well. What are a few of the things that have changed that you wish would go back to the way they used to be?

I think it is important to stay focused on the future while periodically glancing back to the past so we never forget the lessons we learned.  I grew up in Umatilla, before McDonald's, Pizza Hut or even a stop light.  I had a wonderful childhood in a town that is the epitome of small town America, an America that didn't have to worry about leaving its doors unlocked at night.  Today I wish we did not have to worry about our children riding their bikes in the neighborhood by themselves.  I think our area has retained much of its charm, but there is always room for improvement when it comes to crime and the safety of our citizens. 

Our growth through the last 20 years has given our citizens opportunities for jobs, education and activities, but as we move forward, we need to focus on smart growth that preserves this area and our environment for future generations.

2.) Recently, you decided to run for State Representative for District 25. What do you think you bring to the table for the residents of District 25 that others don't?

As the only candidate in my race who was born and raised in this community, I bring to the table a unique perspective of this area and its residents. For three generations now my family and I have made this special part of Central Florida our home.  That is why it is important to me to help this area regain its economic stability while retaining our vibrant quality of life. We are in a time of economic uncertainty which forces us to reevaluate much that we have taken for granted in the past. Crime is on the rise, property values and job options have declined. Let's turn these obstacles into opportunities. This is a time when fresh ideas will help plan for the future through short term policy decisions.

We need a leader who is an advocate for our values and confronts the challenges that arise with sensible solutions. I believe that a smaller more efficient government allows businesses the freedom to prosper. Lower property taxes and affordable housing give families the ability to achieve the American Dream of owning a home, and smart growth protects our environment for future generations.

My grandfather started a business in Lake County 51 years ago.  I have seen my family grow the business according to the needs of this community. This knowledge has prepared me to help shape this community for future generations. 

3.) Is being in politics something that you have always wanted to do? What was the deciding factor for your decision to run for State Representative? Does your family have any background in politics?  

As a small business owner, I have seen the economic impact of this recession first hand and I know how small businesses have dealt with it.  Those that have survived have been flexible and have become more efficient.  If small business can do it, why can't our government?  I have become frustrated with the prospect of bigger government, higher taxes, and less freedom.  I decided either I could sit back and complain about it, or I could stand up and try to do something about it. I have no political background, no one in my family has held elected office, however I am running as a concerned citizen and business owner who believes that we need sensible solutions as opposed to politics as usual.

4.) For those who don't know, you were Miss Florida 1995 and Miss Florida USA 2000. Do you think you will be taken seriously as a state representative candidate? Do you think you will have to work even harder to prove to people that you are in fact a serious candidate?

Hard work has never been something I am afraid of.  I believe that every experience helps mold us into the person we ultimately become.  I'll have to say, Miss Florida was a great growing experience for me. One day I was a teenager from a little town and the next day I was speaking in front of thousands of people, sitting on committees in Tallahassee, and travelling from the panhandle to the Florida Keys working in both small towns and the big cities. I had the chance to get involved in many facets of the state from agriculture, construction, and the arts to working in prisons with the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice and doing motivational speaking in schools.  I had a chance to get to know the diversity and complexity of our great state, and I think the experience makes me a better Floridian and ultimately a better representative.   

5.) Being a small business owner myself, I noticed in your press release, you state that you are the Vice President of a small business as well. You state that you want to help jump start our economy. What ideas do you have that would give our economy a boost?

The economy is a complex machine.  However the basis for stimulating our economy starts at the tax and policy incentives that help the private sector create jobs.  During these times, we need to resist the temptations to raise taxes and we must keep red tape at a minimum.  More than ever, we need for government spending to be prioritized and we cannot accept any pork barrel spending since wasteful spending robs citizens of their precious dollars.  Let's keep government out of business so that businesses have the freedom to prosper.

6.) Being someone involved in the real estate industry as a home builder, I am sure you know about the Homebuyer Tax Credit. The National Association of Realtors have provided proof that the tax credit has given the real estate industry a boost, yet congress doesn't want to expand and extend the credit. What is your view on expanding and extending the Homebuyer Tax Credit?

Real Estate transactions are an important part of Florida tax structure and I do think the federal government should continue to do the types of things that in fact truly stimulate the economy such as extending the Home Buyer Tax Credit.  I am very strongly opposed to the pork barrel spending we've seen coming out of Washington that has been labeled as economic stimulus.  Additionally, while I do favor extending the Homebuyer Credit I also believe that the banks need to make sound loans only to those that are truly prepared and capable of buying and maintaining a home they can reasonably afford.

7.) If a person wanted to contribute to your campaign or offer to volunteer, how can they do so? 

You can log onto my website at www.KristinBeall.com. Or you can join my group or fan page on Facebook.  On my website you can sign up to volunteer, contribute through Paypal and reach me directly through my personal e-mail at info@KristinBeall.com. 

8.) Are there any events or meet and greets coming up where voters can learn more about you? 

Yes, please e-mail me your contact info through my website volunteer page at www.KristinBeall.com  and I will put you on my mailing list for upcoming events. I have several events planned for October already and quite a few more in the works!

9.) In closing, sometimes we view actors, actresses, athletes and politicians is a different light. Sometimes, we fail to remember that at the end of the day, they are just regular people. Please tell us a little bit about Kristin Beall the person.

I believe in God and country, and to me, the three most important things in life are Faith, Family and Friends.  I love barbecue, sweet tea and my grandmother's cornbread.  My dog Daisy always makes me smile, even when I have had a tough day.  There is nothing more amazing than watching the sunset over the lake.  I feel truly blessed.