As much as I would like to consider myself a Southerner, technically I am a Yankee.  I was born in Detroit, Michigan in 1953 and lived with my father and grandmother for a few years before being whisked off by my mother to Englewood, California.  It was here where my mother met my step-father, a North Carolina native, hence how I eventually found myself in lovely Fuquay-Varina.

My childhood had its ups and downs. We moved around a lot which led me to attend over 10 different schools. I do feel like these experiences molded me into the person I am today, being able to adjust and adapt quickly.

By my Junior year in high school, we had settled in Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina.  The place I will always call home.

The terms “Southern Charm” and “Southern Hospitality” quickly became very real to me.  Living in Fuquay-Varina, I felt like I had died and gone to heaven.   The last few years of high school were my favorite.  Senior Class President and leading the High School football team as their captain are some of my fondest memories. Being rooted in FVHS gave me many opportunities and opened many doors.  I was a Beta Club member, karate student, Morehead Scholar nominee and so much more.

Also, during this time, the two most profound, beautiful, and important events happened.  I became a Christian and I fell in love with my beautiful wife, Phyllis.