Hi! I’m “Pops,” as I’m affectionately (I think) known to my amazing grandchildren — Natalie, Jayden and Jackson.

For most of my almost 50-year working career, my identity was based on my work. I’ve worked in local, state and federal government as well as higher education, generally doing communications and government relations work.

As I approach retirement, I am comfortable with my identity simply being “Pops.”

“Pops Across America” will take me from my home in Fresno, California, to the Statue of Liberty. I won’t be physically walking there. Instead, I will be tracking my steps and plotting my progress on my map.

This project is part of my effort to stay healthy in my retirement so I can be around to watch my grandchildren grow and be there for them in good times and bad. I also hope to learn more about the places I am “visiting” during the walk.