GATES! It gives me great pleasure to introduce myself as your president elect of the Gates Cactus and Succulent Society of the Inland Empire.
Many of you know me, but for those who do not… allow me to tell you a little bit about myself.
I moved to Riverside, California from Cleveland, Ohio about 15 years ago after completing my Masters degree in Biology. My focus was on plant ecophysiology. While my passion has always been cacti, my research interests focused around carnivorous plants and nutrient cycling. After moving to California, I continued independent research, but focused on desert plants, particularly on cacti.
I am absolutely fascinated by not only the diverse form and function of cacti and succulents, but also their photosynthetic pathways and morphological adaptations, which far differ from the forest and wetland plants I was used to in Ohio.
After moving to Southern California, I was able to pursue one of my childhood dreams which was to create and grow a large cactus garden. I look back and fondly remember the first time I received a cactus as a gift. When I was in second grade Santa Claus had brought me a modest Oreocereus sp. that quickly led to building a small collection in a brightly lit kitchen window. I wonder now what little Jeff would think of how he has grown… Not only accumulating a beloved collection, but also becoming a part of an amazing organization and elected the honor of leading that community. It gives me great pleasure to serve all of you in 2024 and beyond!
Gates Cactus and Succulent Society 