All thanks to the Holy Trinity from whom I have been blessed with the gift of faith, the love and support of my beautiful wife Kathy, and our five incredible children: Trinity Faith, Keegan Patrick, Jillian Grace, Evan Michael, and Christian Blaise.

Although faith and family are sufficient to make any life fulfilling, I have also enjoyed a rich professional life. Without discounting the benefits of my monetary compensation, it is impossible to put a price tag on the affirmation one receives from providing the appropriate solution for a clients’ dilemma, or a value on the life experience and wisdom gained along the way. When all these factors are considered, I am the recipient of an embarrassment of riches.

I realize that while employment, for many people, is a necessity of life; how we embrace that necessity can transform a mere job into a calling or vocation. If, as The Good Book reads, “one must earn their daily bread from the sweat of their brow,” where is it written the sweat of the brow must be ordinary, uninteresting, and without joy? Thankfully it seems no written edict exists except in the hearts and minds of those who have chosen that path. As for me, I can gratefully acknowledge that my road has been blessed. I have had the wise counsel of caring mentors. The practice of my craft has resulted in relationships with truly wonderful people who have shared their hopes, concerns, and dreams with me. Lastly, my journey has been a humbling experience, because these good people have trusted me to help them transform their hopes and dreams into reality.

I am indebted to my late grandfather, Elbert Nelson Dummitt, for preparing the soil, planting the seed, and keeping the garden fertile. His innate sense of value and common sense were lessons of immeasurable worth; his love and patience were boundless. I miss him deeply.

I am also blessed with a good business partner and friend, Mr. Michael Minney. Mike is more than a wingman; he makes sure the i’s get dotted, the t’s get crossed and the nets are in place every time I run off a cliff before I know where I will land. You are my brother from another mother.

Last but certainly not least is my gratitude to the diva of dividends, the incomparable Geraldine Weiss. She broke the mold and shattered the glass ceiling, proving that Wall Street is no match for mom’s common sense and experience. Thank you for your confidence in entrusting me with your baby, but more importantly for your friendship and wisdom. Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam.