I'm Wayne Sasser, and I am a voice and advocate for the families, businesses, and industries in Stanly and Cabarrus counties.
I was born in Cabarrus County, grew up in Stanly County, and chose to raise my own family and start businesses right here in our community. I grew up on a family farm, and today along with my sister we still operate a cattle farm. I had the privilege of graduating from pharmacy school at UNC-Chapel Hill, and since then as a registered pharmacist I've managed drugstores across our community for 40 years.
For me, service doesn't require a title or elected office. The only requirement is a passion and love of community and people. It's why I've enjoyed giving back through the Lions Club, Rotary Club, Stanly County Economic Development Commission, Friends of Ag Center, and other local clubs and boards.
My campaign is built on a simple theme: to serve you, our community, and our shared values and interests. If you give me the honor to represent you in the North Carolina General Assembly, I pledge to be a strong voice for our community; not neglect its needs or abuse your trust for self-gain.
Today, we face the most devastating drug epidemic in modern history. The opioid crisis is killing tens of thousands of lives a year. North Carolina is set to receive $50 million to help fight this epidemic. Yet, today, not a single pharmacist serves in the North Carolina House or Senate, and there is no system or plan to effectively and efficiently use these funds to successfully defeat this crisis.
As a pharmacist, I have years of education, experience, and knowledge of drugs, their effects and potency, and the drug industry. I am uniquely qualified and prepared to meet the challenges of combating the opioid crisis. It's a challenge I'm prepared to take up.
While the opioid crisis is a state and national concern, here across our community, access to broadband high-speed internet is an issue that is prohibiting our schools and businesses from meeting their full potential. Our middle and high schools are unable to take exams online. Our community colleges are unable to adequately prepare the next generation's workforce due to lack of broadband internet. And our local banks face equal limitations.
I care deeply for Stanly and Cabarrus counties, and the families that call it home. My wife, and high school sweetheart, Nancy and I raised two children, Cameron and Chase, here. I am eager to continue to give back to the community we call home.