Who, other than your parents, was the greatest influence in your life?

[Mr. Ected]

I had a social studies teacher in 7th grade who forced the class to write weekly "president's reports". I was probably one of the few students who actually completed the task every week. It taught me to research, to organize, to write, and to consider presentation.

Later, I had a speech and communication teacher in high school who encouraged me to shed my skin, to grapple with my shyness issues, and to write and perform in oratorical and debate contests. Over the course of 3 years, I won the state contest in oratory and debate twice, and went to the semi-finals nationally my senior year.

Both of these teachers formed the foundation for my eventual pursuit of the legal profession.

Minerva Brown and Georgia Brady: I love you both. A shout-out to both of you.

[Forkboy]

1. No one I know personally.

A few people that have definitely shaped my outlook on life are Kurt Vonnegut, Carl Sagan, and Jello Biafra.

[NJmaverick]

2. My first boss out of college

I worked for him for 15 years as a manager. He was like a father/mentor to me. He taught me so much about the business world (including the politics) and about life in general.