Favorite Tool: I’m partial to power tools because they sound like progress. In my opinion, the impact driver is the great equalizer. Once you’ve managed to find the elusive stud, it provides the extra muscle needed to fully drive a screw.

Favorite DIY Project: I’m most proud of re-siding my south-facing garage wall after years of weather damage. Using a wonderbar, chop saw, brad nailer, hand planer, and paint sprayer, I removed the old siding and rebuilt it from the underlayment out.

Why I wanted to get involved with NEPTL: I own a rental property, and while I have basic tools, I never know what repair will be waiting for me next. NEPTL helps me be a better landlord by tackling projects with my own hands while keeping costs manageable.

My Background: Born and raised in the Pacific Northwest, I’ve called Portland home for decades. Without apology, I’ll rescue a recyclable from the trash, I’d rather repair than replace, I insist that coffee fixes most things, and I can sew a garment, then pop the top on the machine to maintain and repair it.