And The Award For Good Neighbor Goes To..., 2010 San Jose State of the City Award Options

[Ed]

Hello CCF,

Normally, I'm not much on self promotion. I prefer to let my body of work speak for me. But this time I am going to make an exception (the big reveal is at the end of course), but first let me tell you a bit about myself.

By nature, I am a very private, personal, and quiet person. I would describe myself as Introverted. When my son was born, I wanted him to be very comfortable being social, unlike me. I introduced him to everyone we came in contact with. It was painful for me, but he was worthy of my efforts.

Another significant point in my life came when my old high school became the most famous high school ever, Columbine. I knew the teacher who died that day. I have a picture of him in my yearbook with my future college roommate. That tragedy changed me and they way I perceived the world around me. I wanted to make a positive difference in the world.

My ex gave lip service to my desire to find something good to do with my time, but in reality was not supportive. She was insecure and thus threatened by any Independence on my part. Of course we parted ways. Then I met my wife.

I was impressed and inspired by her tenacity to meet a goal. She worked two jobs and lived meagerly just to make it on her own. I was smitten!

After Katrina, My wife (who has a flair for emergency preparedness) wanted to share that passion with our neighbors. We decided that we never wanted to become victims. We wanted to be survivors. So we started a Neighborhood Association to share her passion for PREparedness (PRE means before) and my desire to give back. My wife also started a website www.GoBag.org Which is searched by Government agencies from around the world.

Suddenly we were at the center of a whole new world of involved citizens and City leaders. We have made a difference in our community and in our city.

I currently serve on the San Jose Neighborhoods Commission, the CAP Grant Committee (we decide which neighborhoods get grants from the city), and am a member of the District 1 Leadership Group. Of course I take time to moderate the CCF too.

And now the reveal....

My wife and I were honored with the city of San Jose's Good Neighbor Award on February 18th, 2010.

City Of San Jose - Mayor Reed
Check out the 3rd picture down. I'll post one here shortly with the link.

Ed...

[kyfather]

Congratulations!!!!! It is wonderful that you are involved in your community. I know what you have done for our community of parents so it does not surprise me that you are helping out at home. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif)

[nas2129]

WooooHoooo CONGRATS!! I agree. Great job!

[gram]

Congratulations to you and your wife.

[michael]

Ed, There is a car dealer here in my town that uses the word HUGE!!!!! in all his ads. #1 auto seller in the country. I think he's talking about you. Awsome story. You are huge.

[Ed]

Micheal,

You have a LARGE sense of humor!

Ed...