I am a near lifelong resident of the city of Worcester having moved here at age five. We came here for opportunity from a failing Mid-West city that at one time was much like Worcester. I firmly believe that Worcester is one of the best places in the country to live. It is often ill-compared in an “apples and oranges” type argument. It is the second largest city in New England and now starting to really feel like it.
I live in a little pocket neighborhood on one of the two old gas-lamp terraces that divide Midland and Pleasant Street. One of the things about Worcester that I love most is the architecture, the diversity, and the cultural attractions. I spent many years as a volunteer with Preservation Worcester and remain connected to many organizations throughout the city in varying capacities. We have a world-class Art Museum, great Universities, beautiful parks, boutiques, galleries, and food that makes me “happy-dance” at the table. Our sons attend Midland Street School and we love it. Walking them over in the morning and back in the afternoon is a treat and we’ve made many great new friends. In my spare time I enjoy activities with my family, spending time on Lake Sunapee, and riding my little British motorcycle around the countryside.
A few years ago I was diagnosed with acute heart-failure and I am treated by teams at MGH and St. Vincent’s here in the city. It’s a challenge but one I look at objectively; I have done my best to not let it slow me down. I take each day as a gift and welcome the challenges and opportunities this life brings. There is still so much beauty surrounding us and for that I am deeply grateful. I’ve worked in the Real Estate field for the last ten plus years, mostly in a leadership capacity and I have been incredibly lucky to meet a lot of really amazing people through my career.
I most recently launched what was a hobby in to a small business. “Greenman & Sons Watches” came about after nearly twenty years of collecting and tinkering. I am working through the beginning stages of this venture; crafting concept pieces, custom watches for friends and clients. It has been well received thus far and I continue to refine my process, defining and stylizing the brand and what will eventually be the finalized logo and production models. It is something that I can do without strain. It is something I hope to leave behind for my children. I was gifted my first mechanical wristwatch, a Tissot (now considered vintage) by my parents at age 18. My eldest son now wears it.
In closing, thank you. Thank you to all of you who help make this city and world a better place through your daily contributions. We are all in this together.
Q: Please tell us about your current career and what you love most about what you do?
I work as a leader in the Real Estate field and as a burgeoning amateur watchmaker creating custom pieces for clients.
Q: What is your favorite restaurant in Worcester, and what is your favorite dish?
Piccolos – anything with their house-made red-wine pasta
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve ever met?
Marty Scorcese and Sir Ben Kingsley in the same evening. Wow.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
I would love to travel to Ireland and walk the cliffs my ancestors did.
Q: What is your go to band when you can’t decide what to listen to?
U2: classics and B-sides, early live performances.
Q: What is your best advice?
Keep your chin up and always look further down the road.
Q: What are the top three on your Bucket List?
Watching my children become strong independent adults, traveling the world with my wife, seeing all my friends who have spaced themselves across the world again.
Q: What current/former local business makes you the most nostalgic about Worcester, and why?
Sprout and my beloved friend Cathy Walsh. I still have our messages in FB that sadly stopped in 2013. She was one of the brightest lights in the City.
Q: Choosing anyone alive and a non-relative with whom would you love to have lunch, and why?
I would very much like to have lunch with an old friend whom I have not seen in many years.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
I see myself stronger, wiser and healthier enjoying life with my family and friends doing the work that I am fashioned to do.
Q: What is something interesting that most people don’t know about you, even your friends or family.
I’ve never broken a bone despite (apparently) trying really hard in a couple crashes.
Q: What 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Family, Peace, and Old House repairs
Q: If a motion picture was made of your life, what actor/actress would you choose to play you?
Pete Holmes
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about Worcester?
The people that make up our great city and make it unique. The depth of character in those that work to make it a better place. Those that feed, educate, and in so many other ways nourish our community through their good deeds, businesses, and creativity.
Q: What is your favorite smell?
The countryside. I ride a quiet motorcycle and I like to glide through the farmlands of Hardwick and take in all the sights, smells and sounds. I find it extremely peaceful and calming.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My wife and children obviously, but also the kindness and grace I see and encounter in the faces of people each day.
