Occupation: I am a music and postproduction sound mixer. I record musicians, singers, and voiceover talent, and mix those elements together for release on CD or for broadcast on TV and radio. The production standards are high, the clients are a little nuts, but the level of talent I deal with makes it generally enjoyable. My most recent projects include recording and mixing two songs featuring Leon Redbone in the movie Elf that was just released this Christmas.

 In addition to audio engineering, I also provide Macintosh Computer consulting to several dozen clients here in Fairfield County. This was a natural progression from my work in recording, as over the last 12 years the entire studio business has moved away from tape and onto computer workstations. The Mac is the platform of choice for most of the industry and I’m a huge fan of Apple Computer.

 

How Long in Newtown: I grew up in the suburbs of Philly, 12 miles from the center of the city. It was country then but you’d never know that to see it now. My wife Nancy and I bought our Newtown house in 1985. We had lived in New York City and came here on weekends until 1994, then decided to settle here full-time.

Biggest Change You Have Seen in Town: The taxes! Ours have tripled. Nancy and I may adopt two kids and put them into the school system just to get some return on our money. Plus, they’ll be able to help in the yard. (Just kidding!)

 

Pets: We are owned by a 6-year-old Welsh terrier, who looks like a short Airedale. He lets us live in his house as long as we agree to feed him and stay out of his way.

Favorite Books and Authors: The last book I read was The Wild Blue, a story of Senator George McGovern’s experiences as a pilot in the 8th Air Force. He was a war hero that got characterized as a dove because of his antiwar stance during his 1972 presidential bid –– despite the fact that he flew more than the maximum 35 missions. Those who have been to war can teach us the most about why we must avoid it.

Most Vivid Memory About Newtown: Newtown’s Labor Day parades. They give the town a timeless feel.

 

Favorite Vacation Spot: I like to watch the sunsets in the winter from my front yard. When the leaves are off the trees, I can see the lights in Bethel and Redding. There’s never any traffic, and I can bring the dog.

 

Pet Peeves: Dirt bikes, ATVs, snowmobiles, jet skis, and loud Harleys. For some reason, some people can’t seem to enjoy themselves unless they’re consuming fossil fuels and making a lot of noise doing it. And could somebody please explain why anybody outside of the Sunni Triangle needs a Hummer? They’re a blatant example of environmental arrogance.

Personal Philosophy: I believe we must take responsibility for our place in the environment. As consumers, we should think before we buy –– about the impact our choices will have on the world around us.