Burt Dragin retired recently from teaching Journalism for “a few decades” at Laney College in Oakland. Born in Cleveland, Ohio, Burt grew up in Los Angeles, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in English from Cal State LA and a masters in Journalism from USC. Burt’s own writing includes standup comedy reviews for the Berkeley Gazette, sports articles on the 49ers and tennis for USA Today, Wimbledon for the SF Chronicle, and a host of feature stories and opinion pieces—several on compulsive gambling, the topic of his 2006 book, “Six to Five Against: A Gambler’s Odyssey.” Burt learned about BOSS when a member spoke to his Mass Media and Society class at Laney. Burt was very impressed with BOSS’s mission; he attended events and has been a donor. As a board member Burt hopes to be involved in education of BOSS clients, writing articles, and event planning. “I’m thrilled to be a part BOSS and its crucial mission,” he said.