Vernon Cheng

BSCS & MSEE from UI Champaign-Urbana, 1980
8.5 years in Silicon Valley.
5.5 years in Munich, Germany.
In San Diego since 1994 -- with a 1.5 year expat position in Nice, France.

High-tech entrepreneur/executive. Most years in digital video comms.

Founded own company and raised capital. Internet services (apps & comms) ran for 4 years; sold to majority investor.

Between Si Valley and Munich, was Amateur Ballroom dance champions with my wife Sara. Represented the U.S. in 6 World Championships and qualified for a 7th --- but then we were expecting our first child.

Currently more interested in music - as a gigging fingerstyle guitarist. Have released 2 CDs and am a Voting Member of the Grammy's Recording Academy.

Am also a Magician member of the Academy of Magical Arts headquarted at the Magic Castle in L.A.

Mr. Ackerman --- music Director. I was a "failure" as I never practiced or tried hard at violin during HS. But the experiences I had were memorable. The orchestra was so talented and he led us through so much great music. I tried orchestra at UI but dropped out because the caliber was so much lower than at NTE!