It is time to give back. I have not served the Bloomington community since I was on the Bloomington Human Rights Commission (BHRC) (1996-2001).

I have been a member of Bloomingfoods since I cannot remember when. My member number is 80. I thought that was impressive until I was behind Nancy Hiller at the checkout counter, and her number was 4. I have experience with a coalition but not a cooperative.

While on the faculty of the IU School of Education (1995-2020), I served on many committees. Besides BHRC, I was an officer of GLBT organizations [Indianapolis Coalition for Human Rights (1970s), and Gay Speakers Bureau and Gay Switchboard at IU (1980s)].

Based on service to committees and organizations, and personal philosophy, I believe in consensus decision-making whenever possible. I take an educational, empathic, and people- & mission-supportive approach to governance. I served as community columnist for The Herald-Times (2009-2010).

I have a family history of environmental values (my great grandfather started the Indiana state parks system). As a gay man, I prize equity and diversity. I am a longtime customer of local farmers' markets. As an educator, I believe education and engagement are crucial for our city and Bloomingfoods.

Healthy food, in-store service, fair employment, good workplace morale, responsible governance, and community outreach and education.

Fulfilling our primary role as stated in my answer to Question #6 and being a viable business enterprise that is also ethical are major challenges and opportunities. Hewing to values and experiences that have made Bloomingfoods successful (including learning from our mistakes) is our best path forward.

I have lived in Bloomington since 1980. I have benefited enormously from our community and its unique resources, such as Bloomingfoods; but it is time once again to return the favor, according to my lights.