Age: 60. Birthplace: Brooklyn, NY. Profession: Attorney. Organization: Levine and Levine. Title: Partner. Alma mater: University of Colorado at Boulder; Pace University School of Law. Languages spoken: English, survival German.
Current project: Giants in the Community not-for-profit, Redding Easton Youth Football. Recent recognition: Awards and recognitions for my public service in the state government. Recent professional development: Scores of CLE classes on intellectual property protection, court updates. Latest contribution to others: Donating time and money to youth athletic programs in needy communities. Hobbies: Sailing, golf, hunting, hiking. Last book read: His Excellency, by Joseph Ellis.
Personality profile: Team builder, problem solver, community leader; funny. How do you define an ideal business relationship? Same goals, similar work ethic, creative abilities to complement each other. What is your greatest joy? My children and watching my boys grow. What is your greatest fear? Not trying hard enough or having enough courage to try. What natural talent have you neglected? My artistic talent, painting, drawing, etc. What is your favorite place (or way) to spend money? Funding a party or a sailing adventure. What is at the top of your bucket list? Sailing the Mediterranean. What is your go-to workout? Weightlifting, old-guy basketball, old-guy rugby.
What was your favorite childhood toy or game? GI Joe, Evil Knievel, pickup baseball in the street. What movie have you repeatedly watched? The Godfather, Ben Hur. What’s prominently featured on your home or office wall? Elvis, football awards, government service certificates. Besides your parents, who has had the greatest influence on your life? High school football coach; my former wife and mother of my three sons. What’s the best advice you received growing up? Believe in yourself, don’t let the naysayers get you down. What is your go-to source of news and information? Wall Street Journal, 1440. What is your go-to source of creative inspiration? Sitting or walking in the woods.
What change are you working on to effect in your profession or field?
Work for one client; help build a company.
What change would you like to see in the world? Better communication, tolerance. What message do you want to send out into the world? The Golden Rule: treat others as you want to be treated. What mega-trend most excites you? Artificial intelligence. What mega-trend most concerns you? Artificial intelligence.
What actor would you choose to play you in the movie about your life? Jimmy Stewart. As a kid, what did you first want to be when you grew up? A paleontologist, an astrophysicist or a professional football player. After your loved ones, what object would you first save from your burning home? Photographs. How would you choose to spend tomorrow, if you knew it was your last day on earth? With my children. What advice would you give your younger self? Be more empathetic while also pushing through boundaries. Accept help. What period in your life would you do differently, if you could? Late teens to early college years. I might have taken time off, joined the military, been more focused.
Personal mission: Raise three good young men, leave the planet a better place, help others whenever possible. Personal motto: Do your best, don’t let the naysayers and cowards pull you down. Desired epitaph: Devoted father, friend, teammate, and citizen. “The only thing we control in life is our effort and our attitude, so be positive on both.” John has left the building.
