Michael first saw Eldred Rock Lighthouse while traveling to Haines on the ferry in 2002. The remote location and its stunning beauty triggered thoughts of what life would be like as a keeper. With a team of volunteers and members of the Marine Exchange of Alaska he participated in the most recent Structural Assessment of the Eldred Rock Lighthouse. Michael retired from the City of Santa Clarita in 2008 as the Cultural Arts Supervisor where he was responsible developing the cities first cultural events and Art in Public Places. He serves on the Hammer Museum and American Bald Eagle Foundation Boards, and received Volunteer of the Year in 2023!