Groveland candidate introduces himself.

On Aug. 15, the Orlando Sentinel offered its readers an opinion column casting Groveland political candidates in the limelight. While my opponent was favorably cast, I was presented as the uncircumcised philistine.

I would like to take this opportunity to properly introduce myself. Let the record show some items indicated in the Lauren Ritchie commentary article occurred more than 20 years ago.

I am an example that the past does not define anyone. In the last 20 years I have worked tirelessly to develop a name and a legacy that my family and my community can be proud of:

Chris Lewis Walker is a veteran of the U.S. Army, author of two award-winning books, one being, “Lemons to Lemonade: Overcoming Your Past and Winning in the Now”; senior pastor and founder of Cathedral of Power Church, licensed Realtor/ business owner, 2015 Southlake Black Achiever, and avid community organizer who has worked to get tough legislation passed. I have spoken out for three years against Groveland’s mismanagement.

It is deceptively offensive to paint me as an unfit candidate. Failing to acknowledge the context of issues and my drive to expose the long-running lack of governance in the city while trying to paint me a simple convicted criminal is a disservice.

Let my achievements and platform today speak for Groveland’s future. Chris Lewis Walker Groveland