Hi! I hope this brief bio will help you get to know me.
I'm a real local. I was born in Oakland and grew up in Lafayette, which in the 1950s was transitioning from a village surrounded by orchards to a suburb. I spent my first year of college at DVC. During that year it became clear to everyone concerned that it was time for me to leave home so I transferred to UC Berkeley as a sophomore. What an difference! In the classroom I experienced a revolution in the way physics was taught I and took a Political Science class right before before Richard Nixon was elected President. Outside (in the years from 1967 through 1970) I experienced a different kind of revolution due to the Vietnam War. I passed my classes, failed my pre-induction draft physical, and got my degree. I've lived in Berkeley and Oakland ever since.
After a few temporary jobs and more study at UC Davis I started working at DVC in 1972. I've worked here as the Physics Lab Tech and as an Instructor in Engineering, Physics, and Computer Science. When I was hired I was asked to commit to staying for two years - I hope those who asked got what they were looking for.
Outside of work I have a few geeky hobbies and an interest in sports. I'm too old to play but I'm a big basketball fan, especially of the Cal men's and women's teams. I got a series of rowing lessons for a birthday gift and became an avid sculler, sweep rower, cox, and novice coach. I built my bicycle (except the wheels) from parts and ride regularly in the Oakland and Berkeley hills.
I played tuba in school bands from elementary school through DVC but my tastes in music (as in almost everything) changed in Berkeley. I listen mostly to good rock, good or not-so-good blues, and international music.