I was born and raised in Carteret County, Morehead City...and am at least the 5th generation from this area. I am also 3rd generation immigrant as my grandfather was born on Elis Island while his parents were in quarantine for coming to this country from Italy via a boat. I graduated from West Carteret High then completed my undergraduate degree at East Carolina University. Since I am a "super nerd" I refer to lots of nerdy stuff when teaching. I think that this keeps my students engaged and interested. Outside of school I enjoy most water sports, baseball, football, and horses.