Three Minutes with Andrew Morris of Umatilla

Published 2:08 pm Tuesday, September 7, 2021

What is your occupation?

I’m currently retired and looking for the next life adventure. Before moving to Umatilla last year, I was a policy analyst/advisor for the federal government in the healthcare sector in Washington, D.C. Prior to that, I was a lobbyist.

What is the most fun thing you have ever done at work?

The most fun thing I have ever done at work was attend a White House event that Patti Labelle performed at.

Have you ever met a famous person? What happened?

Through work in politics, there are opportunities to meet celebrities who have different causes and whatnot. One of my favorite encounters was riding an elevator with Sen. Obama during the 2008 election cycle. He was very friendly and outgoing.

What is the best place you have ever visited in the world?

My favorite place in the world that I have visited would have to be the Amalfi Coast of Italy and the small villages along the coastline there. The fresh Italian food and wine is absolutely amazing!

What is your favorite place (restaurant, park, etc.) in the area?

I’m still new to the area and exploring new places to go. Moving here during the pandemic kind of limited options of things to do. I enjoy eating at Midway or going to the park by the McNary Dam.

What is your favorite local annual event?

There are a couple of local events that have been fun to attend. One is the Juneteenth celebration, which was a great way to meet new people. The other was the Umatilla County Fair and Rodeo with relatives.

What is your favorite hobby?

My favorite hobby is traveling. I have been able to have different experiences and live from Asia to the Middle East. Learning about other cultures and other people’s lived experiences gives a different perspective to your life. Reading is another great way to learn about cultures.

What is your favorite book?

My favorite book is “Between Two Kingdoms” by Suleika Jaouad. It is her biography of living through cancer and traveling the country after beating the disease to find meaning and purpose in her life again.

Do you believe in love at first sight?

I believe in attraction at first sight. For a small percentage of people, there is the possibility of love at first sight (hopefully after a conversation to make sure the other person isn’t an ax murderer!). There is always that possibility…