Phi Delta Theta FraternityWhat’s been happening: I've been in the insurance business since graduation in 1984. After working for another independent insurance agency for almost 14 years, I opened my own agency on April Fool's Day, 1997. Due to a non-compete agreement, I left all my clients behind and literally started my new venture out of a walk-in coat closet. Yeah, that's right. I removed the shelves and closet rod and squeezed into a mini desk that was barely big enough for my laptop. Today there are 25 of us between our Salem and Portland locations. Yet here I am, typing this on a Sunday afternoon after a full day at the office. But there's more! My wife Gloria and I have also made our mark in much more fun ways. In 2002 we completed climb school and eventually went on to climb over 75 peaks in Oregon, Washington, and California, including multiple ascents of Mt. Rainier and Mt. Hood. In 2007 we climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro (19,341') via the Lemosho Route-a seven day, 42 mile adventure that circumvents the mountain from west to east, trekking through five different climate zones. We had the unforgettable opportunity to see all the disappearing glaciers on the summit and even spent the last night in the crater itself. In 2009 Gloria and I completed the Portland Marathon and we continue to stay active today. My son Dylan graduated from Oregon State University in 2013 and has joined us in many of our running and climbing adventures. It's been a fun ride! |