Describe your business. Did you find it, or did it find you?

We created it.

What was your first job, and what did you learn from the experience?

In high school I was the activities director in a convalescent home. I played games like shuffleboard and chess with senior residents. At a very young age the job taught me to respect my elders.

How are you involved with both the community and your customer?

We have both been intimately involved in community events that specifically raise funds for children’s charities such as Smiles for Life, which has raised over $10 million so far, for kids with cancer and other serious conditions.

Why is your staff the best in the business?

They really care about people; it’s not just a job to them.

Who is your role model in business or in life, and why?

Colonel Sanders. Not that I’m a big fried chicken fan, but because I read a long time ago that he was turned down countless times by restaurants before someone finally partnered with him to sell his fried chicken recipe. The story taught me to be very tenacious in business. There are a lot of naysayers out there who don’t believe a project or business can be done. I take Colonel Sanders attitude and prove them wrong every time.

What’s your hidden talent?

Ping Pong – I don’t know why, but I think I must be related to Forrest Gump.

What’s your favorite place to eat out locally?

Noodles – it’s right next door to our office and has great food!

Where do you and your family go locally to have fun?

Tahoe – any time of the year – for hiking, skiing, boating and golf.

What’s your favorite childhood memory?

My grandfather gave me a dozen golf balls in an egg carton when he found out I was learning to play the game – cutest darned thing. I probably lost them all the next time I played, though.

If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?

H.G. Wells. I’m fascinated by time travel. How did he come up with these ideas?!

What’s your favorite local event that you go to?

Any of the Christmas Street fairs in Auburn, Grass Valley or Nevada City; they set the tone for the holiday season.

What’s your favorite local business other than your own?

Tres Agaves – you can never go wrong with Mexican food.

And finally, customer service is…?

Listening.