Personal Interests

Chess

Spending some time on chess.com is relaxing. I limit myself to slow daily games when time allows; no live games.

Family

Without support and understanding from family (wife and two grown kids) I could not have spent as much time on professional pursuits as I have. My parents suffered too when I, their only child, left for the US. While I have often failed to be the best son, husband or father, I have learned that family is mightily important!

Politics

Politics is too important to leave only to the professionals. But I have become a lot more cynical about politics and politicians since coming to the US. Big money, lobbyists, special interest groups and PACs have long had a stranglehold on American politics. Many voters have tuned out, except perhaps for soundbites and headlines. The loudest and most extreme voices get most of the attention, resulting in an extreme polarization in politics. The only solution is to reject such folks at the ballot box, which requires everyone (and not only fanatics) to stay involved.

Sports

Football (soccer) -- I played in the youth teams of RKONS, which is now part of VV Schaesberg.

Cycling -- I have the calf muscles to prove that I pushed the pedals hard at times.

Racquetball -- I had some tough battles with faculty and students on the court.