I am a punk rock music lover who has managed to make a career of convincing people that punk rock is the most interesting form of musical expression. My journey from the wilds of the Yukon to the LA concrete jungle has contributed to my love of adventure, meeting new people and discovering the beauty that the world holds for those willing to actively pursue new experiences.
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I have a lovely spouse named Shelley, a friendly dog named Logan, and three adult children who may or may not be in our estate planning, depending on the day. We love them, but they are a challenge.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I have had several careers, including long-haul driver, concert promoter, teacher and attorney. Currently, I am an attorney, but you never know what is next. I love that I get to meet new people, and every day is a different experience.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
I eat at all of our restaurants, but here are my favorites in no particular order: Jake’s, Rudy’s, Basin 141, Mikomi Sushi, 38 Degrees for Beer, Peach Cafe, The Monrovian, and Merengue Bakery
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
Seven years
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
This town definitely has its characters, but Hal Leavens is the most interesting person in Monrovia.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
Vancouver, British Columbia. We have family there, and it would be nice to yell at them in person. The pandemic has made arguing difficult, as they can hang up on Zoom. All kidding aside, connecting with family once in a while, but not too often, is a good time.
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
All time favorite is Quadrophenia. I’ve seen it more than 75 times. Then, Pitch Perfect.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Live your life by the rules you can actually follow. I’ve simplified my life by following one rule: Be a good human. The corollary is also true: Don’t be a jerk.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
Doing all 65 rock music festivals in Europe in one year.
Q: What is your go to band when you can’t decide what to listen to?
Stiff Little Fingers is my all time favorite band.
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
Resistor records. It was the sole reason I moved my law firm to Monrovia. I love record stores, and having one around the corner from my office was too tempting to resist.
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
I’d love to have lunch with Johnny Rotten, aka John Lydon, former singer for the Sex Pistols and Public Image Limited. I’d be fascinated to hear his version of the events leading to the birth of punk rock and the conflict between his public persona and his private life. We have lunch at Jake’s of course.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
The people. This is a community filled with very nice, caring, warm and friendly people.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
At a concert.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I’m actually funny.
Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
Glacier Bay
Q: Favorite month? favorite holiday? and best single day on the calendar?
Favorite month is November, St. Patrick’s Day is my favorite holiday; every day is a best day
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
My Mom’s fudge
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My family.
Q: What is one or two of your favorite smells?
Morning along the Yukon River
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Wherever my family is at
