How long have you been doing stained glass?

1-3 years

How did you first get started in stained glass?

A close friend of mine, David Carr, was a self-taught stained glass artist and he urged me to take a class. A short time later I took a beginner's class, then an intermediate and many intermediates after that and every class that the shop offered. I've since become involved with fusing glass and have the privilege to have taken several classes from Lisa Vogt of Originals In Glass in Tampa. I don't know what my favorite glass method is - copper foil or fusing but I love both.

What expectations do you have heading into this contest?

I expect to challenge myself and expand my thinking about glass to get "out of the box". I've followed both Battlefield Glass I and II and was stunned by the renderings of all the artists. I hope to give someone else the inspiration that they have given me.

What do you feel are your strong/weak points in stained glass?

My strong point is perfectionism and that is also my weakpoint. Other strong points are that I have perseverance, skills, adaptability and a competitive streak in me. My other weak point is impatience.

What other hobbies do you enjoy?

I have been scuba diving for over four decades and love every aspect of the water and living in Florida. I draw many of my panel designs from what I have see underwater. I have won awards in Illinois and in Virginia for my ceramics and needlework. I have faux painted several rooms in my room making my guest room a cloud in the sky which is enjoyed by all who have stayed with me.

Is there anything else you'd like to tell us about yourself?

I am a USCG licensed motor yacht captain and have held my license since 1983. I am active with my high school alumni and participate on committees for my high school birthday party held every five years and I am the treasurer for my high school class reunion committee for my class reunions which is also held every five years.