I was born into a large Italian/Irish family, 2 parents, 9 siblings, 6 aunts and 7 uncles, 63 cousins and 1 goldfish. We lived in a small house in SE Wisconsin Village of Greendale. A community constructed by Eleanor Roosevelt with the CCC of the 1930’s. Near by were several small lakes that I used to fish from, mainly bobber, some “cane pole”.
As a youth I excelled at camping. I was second troop commander for the Boy Scouts. We were well known for our “survival” type outings. We even camped in the middle of winter, once getting caught in a blizzard with only our tents and a flickering fire. My youth was consumed with football (1st team all conference offensive center, 2nd team outside linebacker), baseball and biking. I even biked several centuries (100 mile ride). But, my passions were cooking, history and math.
I went to an all boys Jesuit high school. I enjoyed the vast courses in history and accelerated math. I began my first career in cooking. I would work at the Jesuit residence cooking for the priests. Working myself into other local restaurants to pay my tuition, I gathered and learned cooking styles.
Cooking to me is a life statement, kneading the dough, working the hands taught one more than just cooking, but integrity in everything you do. I was promoted to Chef early on, became well known in Milwaukee circles, I have been published with recipes, performed many shows, local television and community festivals. All while earning a degree in History from University of Wisconsin at Milwaukee.
I met my soul mate, partner and wife Vickie at the University. We later married, had two wonderful girls Sofia and Lydia. I am active in sport; coaching soccer and basketball. I am at best a team builder, skill enhancer, and most of all mentor. My teams have excelled as many times as not. The lesson is always to give with integrity. Play and do your best.
Eventually, my math side began to rise again. I made a significant career move to insurance. I have three of my siblings in insurance, actuarial both of them, so it was a natural and most enjoyable change. I am fascinated with insurance, and learn new things everyday. To me it is an exciting industry, Marine insurance especially. The constant evolution, the evaluation, the market condition, the rating, the management, the whole business is just fun. I intend to continue and excel in the industry.