We are very lucky to have Al, not only on the Board, but also as a neighbor. He is always ready to lend a hand when needed and takes great pride in working to enhance Lake Shawnee’s appearance and our community’s social network.

    Al was born and raised in Clifton, N.J. with his parents and sister, Angela.  He is a United States Navy veteran and served during the Vietnam conflict.  He remained in the Reserves for the two years after his discharge from the Navy in 1968.  Al served as a Communication Technician as a Petty Officer Third Class during his tenure, which is ironic for a man of few words. After the Navy, Al graduated Montclair State College with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration.

   In November of 1977, Al found his place in Lake Shawnee on Highview Trail, and in 1986, he relocated to his current location on West Shawnee Trail.  His professional career began with a 23 year term with Herman’s World of Sporting Goods before the company went out of business. Since then, he has been in the IT consulting business. Al states “I enjoy the interaction and problem solving for my company’s clients and bring my abilities into my personal life by providing friends with solutions to their PC issues.” In the IT business Al can usually answer a question regarding the use of a personal computer without hesitation.

   Al’s family consists of his wife, Carol, and his three children, Robert, Kathy and Michael.  Robert attended the Jefferson schools and went on to Wesley College in Dover, DE.  He graduated with a BS in Sports Medicine, and is currently a personal trainer.  Kathy graduated from UNLV with a BS in kinesiology and is currently working in medical sales specializing in custom orthotics and rehabilitation devices.  Michael graduated from Chubb Institute, and is an IT Technician for AT&T.

  Al says, “On my first date with Carol, we sat on the bench at First Beach, it was a beautiful day, and the lake looked magnificent.  Carol turned to me and said “I am going to live here one day,” and the rest is history.  Carol is not just my wife, she is my best friend, and we laugh together every day.”

   Al and Carol are also certified divers, and love SCUBA when the opportunity arises. You can also see them fishing, and Carol is an avid participant in the ladies tournaments.  You can usually see Carol paddling Al around the lake so he can test his latest fishing equipment purchases.  They both love the community, but more importantly, they have an interest in keeping it clean. 

   As a young man, Al worked with a contractor where he learned carpentry, plumbing and electrical work.  Al loves to work around the house, using his hands, and getting dirty.  He claims that this is “fun” and not just him doing home projects.    I am hoping he has “fun” when I lure him to my house for the painting party.  Personally, what I can say of Al is that his dedication is true.  His intention to make Lake Shawnee a better place is evident.  He shows up early at every meeting to set up, and does not leave until everything is put away.  When a volunteer is needed, Al always has his hand raised, and always delivers.  We are very lucky to have him on the Board, and it is an honor to serve with him.  We can only hope that his presence is long term because his efforts truly make a difference.