Sparker’s Soapbox is a nonpartisan civic information resource for Collier County voters. The Sparker’s Soapbox platform includes Sparker’s Digest, a weekly newsletter about state and local government; Sparker’s Research, in-depth looks at candidates and ballot issues; and Sparker’s Civics, introductory guides to Florida and Collier civics.
ABOUT SANDY PARKER
After moving to Florida from New Jersey in 2003, I rediscovered a long-dormant interest in government and politics. My first vote as a Floridian was in the presidential election that followed Bush v. Gore. All eyes were on Florida’s elections then, and it has remained so ever since.
I spent the next several years learning about our local and state governments as an active member of the League of Women Voters of Collier County, and in 2008, I led a statewide project to revise Our Florida Government, which served at the time as a “compact and factual presentation of the basic structure and operation of Florida government” published by the Florida LWV. I also volunteered on political campaigns.
In 2010, I began writing Sparker’s Soapbox as a way to share my ongoing research to become a more informed voter. I wrote at the time, “… the outcome of the upcoming elections … will set the direction of our future in irreversible ways that we can’t even begin to imagine.”
That belief continues to motivate me today, and I am passionate in my conviction that the more informed voters are, the better our government will be.
In addition to writing Sparker’s Soapbox, I frequently make presentations about state and local government to community groups, continuing care retirement communities, and adult education programs. I am also an active member of the League of Women Voters, the Press Club of Southwest Florida, and the Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce.
Before retirement, I held executive positions in accounting, investor relations, and corporate finance, retiring as Vice President – Treasury and Investor Relations with the Dun & Bradstreet Corporation. I received a BA with highest honors and honors in American Studies from Douglass College at Rutgers University, where I was elected to Phi Beta Kappa, and I have an MBA from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.
Sparker’s Soapbox readers are more informed voters!
“Sandy produces a regular and thorough, unbiased wrap-up of important local government stories, election previews, state legislation and proposals, and controversial local and state issues. My only regret is that too many local citizens are not subscribing to and reading Sparker’s Soapbox. Informed citizens are crucial to good government.“
Alan M. Horton
March 2, 2022“I have great admiration and appreciation for the time and effort that Sandy puts into her newsletter along with frequent updates on current political activities and events. I can make a more informed decision at the ballot box thanks to her dedication in reporting what’s being considered and what action is being taken in our city, county, and state government.”
Wayne Mullican
February 27, 2022“As local news coverage shrivels, Sparker’s Soapbox fills the void with expert, adroit, balanced syntheses of public policies. Sandy Parker’s distinguished leadership greatly contributes to our community’s awareness. Her energetic, indefatigable reportage is widely recognized for its distinctive excellence.“
Mike Reagen
February 28, 2022“As a new resident of Naples, a recent transplant from Chicago, I find in Sparker’s Soapbox the information and guidance I need to help make up my mind about the political issues that concern my community. Gracias, Sandy!”
Olga Vilella
February 27, 2022“Sandy Parker has the knowledge but also the skill to transmit the information in an objective way with no political leanings; a rarity to find in Collier County.”
Tim Diegel
February 27, 2022“If you want to be a well-informed citizen and voter, this is where to go. It’s especially helpful for new Florida residents who want to get up to speed quickly.”