If the first forum was about introductions, the second was about authenticity. I came better prepared to show the community exactly who I am. This presentation was spurred by a FOIA request that revealed county supervisors referring to library trustees as “dumb as a bag of rocks.” As someone who grew up in special education with learning disabilities, I took that personally—not as an insult to be ignored, but as a prompt to prove my value through action.
Philanthropy and Action
I don’t just sit at the table; I invest in the mission. In 2023, I approached the library to help fund “Library Lovers Month.” I put up a $3,500 match, which helped us raise $8,000 for the library. For me, service isn’t about the title; it’s about identifying needs and filling them.
The “Human” Side of Technology
I shared some personal details to help neighbors see the person behind the badge:
- The Pacemaker: I wear my magnetic name tag on the right side because I have a pacemaker. It’s a literal part of my “human” hardware.
- Resilience: I attended the Art Institute of Pittsburgh on a scholarship for industrial design. Life took a few tragic turns, including the death of my roommate, an apartment fire, and my own health problems, causing me to drop out.
- The “Degree” Dilemma: My manager later pushed me to get my IT degree because I had “capped out” on what I could do without it, despite my skill level.
High-Stakes Technical Background
I’ve spent decades in the IT sector, often working on projects where “compliance” isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a requirement for national security. My resume includes:
- NASA & USCIS: Managing data and ensuring compliance.
- State Department: Working on a nuclear non-proliferation contract.
- Open Source: I’ve been contributing to open-source code since 1998; some of my code is still active in clients’ systems today.
Integrity in Public Service
I also spoke about my time on the Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA). I was nominated by the Town Council and appointed by a judge, but I ultimately resigned. Why? Because I couldn’t stand behind decisions that were legally required but harmful to the community. I chose to walk away rather than “rubber stamp” outcomes that I felt were wrong for the taxpayers.
Looking Forward
My goal for Samuels Public Library is to push for digital literacy. I want to donate my time to teach workshops in:
- Linux & Python
- Robotics & AI
- Laser Cutting (Glowforge)
I am a Mason, a Shriner, and an active member of the Chamber of Commerce. I am here to build, to teach, and to ensure that our library remains a place where even those labeled “rocks” can find the tools to become architects of their own future.
Watch the Presentation
- 1:10 – Sponsoring Library Lovers Month and the $3,500 match.
- 1:52 – Offering to teach Linux, Python, and AI workshops for teens.
- 2:39 – Discussing my industrial design background and overcoming personal tragedy.
- 3:14 – Addressing the “bag of rocks” comments from supervisors.
- 4:02 – Professional work with NASA and the State Department.
- 6:05 – Why I resigned from the Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA).
