Mark Strate started his work career in the travel business in Southern California, primarily in resort hotel sales. Over the course of time, he was employed by hotel chains in Hawaii, Tahiti and a worldwide chain. He was then offered an opportunity to manage the daily operations of a small gourmet food manufacturing business in the San Francisco Bay Area. After several years in the food business, he sold his interest in that company, married Julia, and moved to Grass Valley. While they had been attending MIM concerts before living here, they soon became more involved. Mark joined the MIM Board for the first time in 2000. He also served on a small advisory committee at Habitat for Humanity before serving on their Board Development Committee for four years. Mark is now back for his third stint as a Board member.