CITY HALL — Former Santa Monica City Manager Lamont Ewell is now a published author, having penned a step-by-step guide on how to successfully prepare for police and fire chief interviews.
"The book was inspired by the hundreds of thousands of police and firefighters worldwide who unselfishly risk their lives each day on behalf of the communities they serve," Ewell said of "Reaching For The Gold," which is based on his experiences as a former fire chief and city manager who has hired several leaders during his tenure.
Ewell, who left Santa Monica at the beginning of 2010 after serving roughly four years as city manager, felt it was imperative to help public safety officials prepare for leadership positions because many communities are struggling to provide desired levels of protection due to budget cuts.
"The only way to address this leadership challenge will be through the development of strong, creative leaders who are values driven, consensus builders and are capable of adapting to today's stark economic realities," Ewell said. "It requires preparing tomorrow's leaders today."
Ewell currently lives on a horse ranch in Southern California with his wife, daughter, son-in-law and two grandsons. The family is establishing a zinfandel grape vineyard.
For more information about the book and how to purchase it, visit www.Reachingforthegold.net
kevinh@www.smdp.com