Family:
We met in line before the first day of dental school to get our student photo id. When I met my wife, Laura Jen Kin Berger, the "World" just froze and I knew something special had just occurred. That was July 1st, 1984. We became best friends and we married on Aug 12th 1989. In July of 1992 we purchased our dental practice and in June of 1993 we had our first of three daughters, Sydney. Karli, our second daughter was born in Aug of 1997, and Daryn, our third daughter was born in Sept of 1999. And, in 2008, our precious Shih Tzu, Bentley. (Thank You, Dr. Ron)
Why I'm in Rotary:
I am in Rotary because I believe in giving back. I was taught by my father, 'Be Good To People, And They Will Good Back To You" He also shared with me that you must make the world a better place during your journey of life.
Rotary is the perfect vehicle to fulfils one "Good Will', to mankind. It offers opportunities to help others in need. Whether it's in the great community of Simi or anywhere in the world. Rotary touches everyone who is willing to extend a hand. Life creates clues each and everyday for everyone. The question is quite simple, Are you paying attention to your surroundings? Rotary magnifies those clues to make the world a better place.
My memorable Rotary Moments are:
Being brought into the Club, by the late Ivan Delman in Oct of '92
Receiving my first Paul Harris from Doug Wieben at his President's Demotion
Having my wife, Laura, in Simi Sunrise.
Going to Celaya Mexico with Rotarians Mike Frances (Simi Sunrise) and the late Jock McKenzie (Westlake) plus Rotarians from Santa Barbara to observe the Dental and Ophthalmology Clinic.
Staying with host Rotarians (In Celaya) in homes the size of mansions you would observe in Bel Air with armed security (Semi-automatics) in front of each villa. They were frightened when I would go out jogging every morning. I was young and never thought twice about it. I realized right then, how privileged I was to be a "Rotarian".
Sitting at Rotary with Stephen L. Millich, Esq., our Club's Poet Laureate
Running the project of, "Feeding The Needy", at the Samaritan Center. This has been something dear to my heart, and now John Tolson is in charge and does an impeccable job.
Yes, being President of our incredible club in 2011-12 was a dream come true. To be responsible for our club for that year was a "Magical Moment" in my life.
But, nothing compares until you bring members in whom have been instrumental to our club
From my first in Gary Stewart, Ron Resnick, Wayne Snyder, Dorina Timbol, John Bagnall, and Larry Borovay, it has been an honor to have amazing friends who want to give back.
What you might not know about me:
Whether I am swinging a golf club or striking a forehand in tennis, or spinning at the gym, I truly miss my days of competitive swimming. The discipline of 5:15 AM workouts in the morning followed by evening workouts allowed me the ability to understand time management.
As for raising three daughters with my wife Laura, all I can say is that the memories are spectacular. Having all three of them dance competitively at the highest level has kept us busy over the last 20 years. They have all mastered the "Art Of Balance" on a physical as well as emotional level. I believe that is all a parent can ask for.
On my bucket list:
One goal I hope to accomplish is to run aMarathon, and to visit England and see all the memorabilia of The Beatles, in Liverpool. Also to see Wimbledon and US Open tennis matches.
What I am good at:
Giving people the ability to smile. Whether it's being done professionally or socially I treasure having people enjoy their lives.
What I'd also like to share:
Being part of Simi Sunrise Rotary is a gift that I cherish everyday. It's why my life is special.
Because of Rotary, I see all the reasons to give back. It's why I have given back to my profession by being President of Santa Barbara Ventura Dental Society.
Besides having friends in Simi Sunrise Rotary, I have something more, I have "Heroes" who I am proud to share life's memories with.
Dan, you are doing a great job as well as all other past presidents. To Dan and all future Presidents, continue to make our club the best it can be.
Enjoy, and Keep Smiling.
