Trent A. Romer - Finding Sustainability: The Personal and Professional Journey of a Plastic Bag Manufacturer

This book would have never been written without the encouragement of Leith Sharp. Ideas for writing swam in my mind for many years, until her comment: regardless of what may or may not be already out there, it is important to tell your experience. I thank her for pushing me into the boat.

Many thanks to Victoria Mixon who helped me edit the book. She saw something in the original draft that I did not see. Her editing expertise, patience and suggestions transformed how my story is told and gave me an education Ill use for years to come.

Thank you to John Hunt Publishing who took a chance on a first time writer. Ill be forever indebted to you all for making a dream come true. My heartfelt thanks to all who made this happen. In particular, thank you to the publishing team: Andrew James Wells, Beccy Conway, Dominic C. James, G.L. Davies, John Hunt, Mary Flatt, Nick Welch, Sarah-Beth Watkins and Stuart Davies.

I am grateful to the people who have helped form my faith over many years: Reverend Carlo Lazzaro, Doris McKever, Margaret LeFevre, the congregation of the Nassau Reformed Church, Alan Balfoort, Father John Croghan, Brian Raiche, Father John Provost, Father Thomas Holmes and the Saint Henrys community of faith.

Basketball has always been a big part of my life, and for me the perseverance to keep trying and the joy of working hard to accomplish a common goal is largely founded in playing basketball through college. In order to write this book, I needed to draw on those lessons. My basketball coaches throughout my life will always be with me. In particular, I want to thank Paul Fiore, Gary Holtz, Tim Lange, Tom Bacher, Bob Smith, Jim Obermeyer, Bill Coen, Scott Hicks and Tom Murphy for forging those values in me.

I am thankful to all those who influenced my education at Columbia High School, Hamilton College and the University at Albany. Special thanks to Nikki Piechnik, Elizabeth Jensen and Linda Krzykowski, who each influenced me in ways they will never know.

Many of the stories in this book were created by and shared with close friends and family. I am very thankful for those memories they helped make and their influence and support throughout my life.

I am forever grateful to the many people at my business who support and contribute to the sustainability movement. In particular, Virginia Trimarchi and my brother Todd Romer have provided invaluable feedback and support.

My sister Tara has served as a source of inspiration in the way she cares for our family and all those around her. I am very thankful to have her in my life.

Fulvia and Don Strevell, my maternal grandparents, lived with us as we grew up. I saw them every day of my childhood. Their vision in starting their business and extreme generosity as grandparents will never leave my memory.

My parents Bill and Deborah Romer have raised me to try to be the best I can be and nothing more. They have always led and continue to lead by example. Thank you for being the best role models I could ever have.

Thank you to my children: Ben, Christian and Jonathan. You are the pride and joy of my life. When I could have been shooting basketball in the driveway or riding bikes with you, you afforded me the time instead to travel, think and write. I will always be with you.

Finally, thank you to my wife Melissa for your encouragement, feedback, patience and willingness to support me in pursuing this venture. My gratitude goes far beyond this book. You are a true angel and the love of my life.

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