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By SHELLEY HANSON
WHEELING -- Adam Perzanowki, 35, of St. Clairsville feels blessed that he has been able to live and work in his native Ohio Valley.
Perzanowski is president and director of sales for the Milestone Company, an independent insurance agency with offices in Cadiz, Steubenville, and New Philadelphia, Ohio. He has been with the company for 10 years, which was founded by his friend Dan Milleson.
Perzanowski said a typical work day includes traveling to any of the company's three offices where his goal is to "manage relationships."
"This could entail dealing with our clients' needs and issues, dealing with insurance carriers, or making sure our staff has everything they need to be successful, while also helping them maintain a positive work/life balance," he said. "I also like to bring on new clients."
Perzanowski said a motto that he lives by is "Shoot for the stars, land on the moon."
"Nothing great has ever happened without the risk of failure," he said. "Even in failure, great things can be accomplished, and you find out a lot about yourself."
Perzanowski said he wanted to stay the Ohio Valley because it is home.
"My entire family is here and as well as most of my closest friends; I've always wanted to be here," he said. "I was then given the opportunity in 2013 to work with my best friend in an attempt to grow something special in the valley that we could be proud of."
Perzanowski sees the valley's residents as its bright spot.
"Small town businesses depend on each other, and it creates a community atmosphere here in the valley," he said. "'Rising tides lift all ships.' It's a beautiful thing and a perk of living in a small town versus a city."
His advice to young people just entering the workforce is to "always treat people with respect, no matter what, and never burn a bridge."
Perzanowski said he learned in early in his career that people just want to be with fairness and honesty, regardless of the outcome.
"We may not have all the answers, but I always try to give our clients the most honest and accurate advice, regardless of what it means for our business," he said. "'Do the right thing' is how I try to make all of my decisions."
Regarding the future of his field, Perzanowski said he tries not to look too far ahead.
"Because our industry changes so often, but we will continue to provide protection to our friends in the Ohio Valley," he added.
Perzanowski said he most proud that he was able to stay in the Ohio Valley and make a life for his family.
He and his wife of six years, Deena, have two sons, ages 1 and 4, together. They also have two pet dogs. He also enjoys getting to be surrounded by his friends and family every day.
"Not only was I able to stay here, but I have worked with my best friend and represented his family business for almost 10 years," he said. "It's been a dream and I feel very blessed."
In addition to work and family, Perzanowski said he has been involved with civic organizations in the past including the Bridgeport and Steubenville rotary clubs. He also served as an ambassador for three years and a secretary one year with the Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce.
"My wife and I have served on the Ohio Valley Heartball Committee for the last four years," he said. "I am also the committee person for my precinct in the Belmont County Democrat Party."
Perzanowski said he wants people to know although the Milestone Company has grown tremendously it is still a family.
"And we strive to treat all our clients as such," he said.