I run a youth development nonprofit called Green Works in Kansas City. Before starting Green Works I was an entrepreneur in the manufacturing industry and before that, an IT engineer.

My past community work includes teaching at Rockhurst University and serving on the Landmarks Commission and the Zoning Steering Committee for Kansas City, Missouri. Currently I represent the Southmoreland neighborhood as a board member of MainCor, and as a member of the Streetcar Advisory Committee.

I like to write. I just recently wrote a desk reference book to help people stay focused, called Find Your Focus. Four years ago I published a book on gardening with native plants, and I also write a blog (43rdplace.wordpress.com) on community, local politics, the environment, technology and economics.

Underlying all my efforts is a belief that I can improve physical and social environments using persistence, passion, good data and humor. When I get discouraged, I write, paint or work in my garden.

This is a picture from my front yard. The Monarch butterflies visit every fall to feed before their trip to Mexico.