What was your very first job?
Cutting grass when I was 14. I got paid, but it didn’t feel like work to me.
What was the first thing you bought with your own money?
This will sound crazy, but I bought “designer” clothes! Jordache jeans and Nike sneakers. That’s what all the cool kids wore.
How many years have you been at Bohemia Bay Yacht Harbour?
25 years. I started here as dockmaster in October 1990.
Worst day on the job? Best day?
February 10, 2010 when a snowstorm caused our covered slip shed to collapse. There were so many boats damaged. The best days are the ones like our Easter Seals Cruise for the kids. Anytime we can give back to the community and help children is a good day.
If you could pick a superpower, which one would you want?
I would like to be able to fly like Superman and save the planet.
What is the most important thing you would tell a new boater never to do?
Run at night. If you are inexperienced, don’t just rely on GPS for night cruising. There are too many other things that could go wrong.
Where was your last vacation?
The Outer Banks in 2007 but I am getting ready to take a cruise soon.
Name something you own that you wish you had never bought.
An expensive set of golf clubs. I never get to use them, and as it turns out, I am better at spending money than golfing.
What single word best describes boating on the Bohemia River?
Peaceful.
Where is your favorite tiki bar?
The Lighthouse in Dewey Beach, Delaware. The have the greatest orange crushes around. Closer to home would have to be the Chesapeake Inn.
What do you do when you need a good laugh?
Pop in a Three Stooges DVD.
What advise could improve a boater’s docking skills?
Don’t panic! Slow down and try to relax. If you need help, throw us a line and we will get you in.
What is the best part of waking up each day?
I am a humble person and feel I have a path in life. My path is here. I love the water. I love working and living on the water. I can walk to work every morning, and there is a million-dollar view from my office window. It’s glorious, and I love doing this!
What do you think is the best way to encourage newcomers to boating?
Take good care of the current boaters. Give them enjoyable positive stories to tell — whether about what a great boat they bought, service they had or the places they stay. They will pass the good words. Boating is fun!
