We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Elizabeth, Sydney — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 11:38:14 GMT

HAHA! My flatmate, who is a Seattlite, greatly appreciated your article...

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Tina, Philadelphia, PA (formerly Portland, OR) — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 14:17:13 GMT

This is hilarious! As a PNW transplant living on the East Coast now this brought a smile to my face and made me think of home. And yes, when I bring my Philly born and raised fiance back with me he turns into Confused East Coast Transplant Guy. When people smile and say hi he thinks they are going to mug him - hahaha!

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Christina CG, Bellingham, WA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:39:37 GMT

I also have a Confused East Coast Transplant Guy... I will never forget the look on his face when, on his first day here, we were walking a pier and a woman smiled and said "Hi." to us.

With a stunned expression he said, "That would never happen in Rhode Island!"

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Z. Grey — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:48:12 GMT

Oh man... too cool for school. I get to the Northwest whenever I can, and these are absolutely spot on. I wish I had an insurance company like this in Illinois. We just have crappy Allstate. These guys are way cooler. Love the ads and you can see them all on "werealotlikeyou.com."

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Rod Brooks, Seattle, Washington — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:55:47 GMT

Good morning from the great Northwest. My name is Rod Brooks, a Northwest native, a Northwest marketing guy (CMO of PEMCO Insurance to be totally transparent here) and fortunate to be featured as NW Profile number 82... J.P. Patches Pal. Just dropped in to say WOW! And thanks for the flattering mention of our campaign in your blog. Doing business here is all about knowing and understanding the people that make our region the unique place that it is. I'm really blessed to have a great team working on this campaign. We're having a blast with it and it's clear that we aren't alone. It starts with sharing a smile. Thanks for helping us along. To see all 40 plus NW Profiles, you can visit our website at www.werealotlikeyou.com

Sincerely,

Rod Brooks
NW Marketing Guy
PEMCO Mutual Insurance Company

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

J. Nance, Oakland, CA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 16:18:29 GMT

Great stuff. Not your stereotypical insurance company approach. My favorite is the Roadside Chainsaw Woodcarver. Anyone know what agency does their ads?

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Cynthia, Ewa Beach, Hawaii — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 18:05:43 GMT

I'm originaly from the inland north west (Missoula, MT) and I still really relate to these profiles. I am "obsessive compulsive recycler" and my mom is "wool socks and sandal wearing guy." I get a lot of wierd looks for my excessive (by some standards) reduce/reuse/recycle phillosopy, but it's well worth it. Anyway, fabulous marketing. This will continue to get a lot of word of mouth in addition to print/radio/TV.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Brandon, Seattle — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 18:23:34 GMT

Don't forget the ski-in-the-rain guy and pony-tailed-computer-nerd guy.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Sarah from Palo Alto, your profile is us, too — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 18:42:50 GMT

You will have to count the Palo Alto- Stanford area in; we match on every one of your profiles, and then some. But the Palo-Altans are better spellers, even if it is a blog.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Dave, Louisiana — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 19:19:03 GMT

Sounds like people in the Northwest are self-confirmed dorks.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Sandee of Seattle — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 19:45:39 GMT

Go Pemco!!! It's the best insurance co in WA. Their Customer Service is the best in the NW. Too bad they only insure people in WA. Funny Ads...very true...that is why we are special here in the NW.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Watts — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 20:12:05 GMT

If by self-comfirmed dorks you mean people who don't give a @#*% what you think, then yes.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Sarah, Michigan — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 20:16:35 GMT

Ah, and now I'm homesick for Spokane. There's no day like Bloomsday! It's too bad they left out the ubiquitous coffee stands. You know you've strayed too far from home when there is no longer a coffee hut on every corner.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Danita, Davenport, WA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 21:26:30 GMT

These ads are wonderful! As a Washington native these all hit home. I know all these people! Not sure who I am (maybe a new profile) but these are great; keep them coming!

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

A. Kirkland, WA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 22:24:25 GMT

I'm not sure where you live in the Pacific Northwest but where I live, stay-at-home moms wear heels to the playgrounds, folks drive luxury cars (not fuel efficient hybrids) and people look like they've walked out of a fashion magazine just to go to the mall.

The notion that everyone in the Pacific Northwest must know someone or play in a rock band or wear sandals with socks is just wrong- and so are the moms who wear high heels to watch their tots swing on the swings and slide down the slides!

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 23:56:30 GMT

Yeah I'm pretty sure Oregon is considered part of the NW and all...there's plenty of coffee stands and recyclers, but there's also enough malls around here for me not to identify with this grunge clothes thing. who wears socks with sandels these days?!

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Moose, WA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 23:57:15 GMT

A. Kirkland,

I grew up in Kirkland back in the 70's and 80's, and although it has recently become the home to Silicon Valley transplants that you describe, it used to be just like PEMCO says (Brady Bunch-land with a lumberjack twist).

Self proclaimed Socks and Sandals Guy

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

SJ — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 00:09:55 GMT

I live in the Northwest (originally from the Northeast), and I think this is just the best place. I have one fancy outfit, a black dress, because, honestly, you can go to any restaurant here, with the possible exception of The Herb Farm, in jeans.

Oh, and yes, I drive a Prius.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Karen H, Auburn, WA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 00:23:47 GMT

"Sounds like people in the Northwest are self-confirmed dorks."

Yes, and we are nice dorks who will invite even Louisianans to salmon barbeques. In the rain, but hey, barbeques are good at any time.

"I'm not sure where you live in the Pacific Northwest but where I live, stay-at-home moms wear heels to the playgrounds, folks drive luxury cars (not fuel efficient hybrids) and people look like they've walked out of a fashion magazine just to go to the mall."

This is because you live in Kirkland, a small enclave of ex-Californians and a few New Yorkers.

:-D

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Zorbz — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 00:33:07 GMT

How about the Nintey-six-Progressive-Bumper-Stickers-Crammed-on-the-Back-of-the-'86-Saab Guy?

Yours truly, The Rescuer-of-Earthworms-from-Mud-Puddles-and-Clogged-Storm-Drains Lady

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Wahine 13, Ballard WA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 02:02:38 GMT

Blue-Tarp-Camper Girl here! dear lord, that one took me back to Dad wringing out our drenched Sears sleeping bags one morning somewhere in the San Juans - breakfast of rehydrated REI Chicken Stew and Pilot Crackers - freezing my ass off and grateful for one accessory, my early teen contact with the outside world, which Dad didn't notice me pack: pocket transistor radio blaring Billy Squier from some Canadian AM frequency...

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Wed, 30 Apr 2008 02:17:33 GMT

"Granolas" should cover most of them, maybe with a bit more (or lack of) sophistication. Clothing and gear purchased from REI, maybe Eddie Bauer for dress-up. Move a little further east into the Northern Rockies and many drive an AWD Subaru with Thule on top and PBS bumper sticker.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Mrs. M., Mountlake Terrace, WA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 02:26:06 GMT

The Pemco "Blue Tarp Camper" ad is my husband's favorite since he and our friends feel that they practically invented this type of getaway. (Please never ask him about our rainy trip to Mt. St. Helens, May of '98!) My favorite Pemco ad is "Marymoor Park Off-Leash Dog Area; it is eerily detailed how well you described that woman ...

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Oregon — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 02:33:11 GMT

This is GREAT!
I'm NOT the mother that takes her kids to the park in high heels, but I am the NW mother that does walk her children to the bus in her PJs & SLIPPERS! :D
I LOVE living here carefree!
And yes COFFEE is my lifeline!
Recycling is cost efficient & hybrids are da bomb!
Plaids are always in & socks w/ burkis' sandles are a must 4 comfort in the wind 'n' rain!
FORGET about being uptight & stuffy....step out of the norm and join NW world!
Oh 'n' P.S. say "HI!" once in awhile it makes people SMILE! :D)

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Former Oregon Dude who actually grew up in Oregon, now lives in the Midwest — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 02:33:17 GMT

I love ridiculous stereotypes...thanks MSM for pigeonholing people in the NW. And the comments are great for confirmatory bias. I could go on about stories from people in the NW who don't come close to this image. By the way, NYers are rude and people from the south are racist rednecks with fantastic charm. Anywho, it is cold so I better go put on my flannel jacket and play Nirvana.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

John. — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 04:13:42 GMT

Washington native, Kennewick. Love the northwest, I used to complain that Seattleites and other big city folk were fairly numb, and rude..........

That was before I went to San Fran for a short trip.............WOW!!!!

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Michael — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 04:29:59 GMT

As a Seattle resident, I didn't know why they called us "different", because to myself...all of this is totally normal. With all due respect, you normal people seem strange. =D

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Karl Lloopper — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 05:09:56 GMT

The northwest is great in several ways. Casual and they still get the work out. I like the way nobody really judges too much. It's nice that it's different, and please stay that way. ;-)

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Eddie, Seattle, Wash. — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 06:01:35 GMT

Haha. This is just great.

I have had the opportunity to visit some major cities throughout the United States and the Northwest is definitely something. Love and hate it at the same time. More 'love it' though.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Katy, Sequim WA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 06:18:46 GMT

Love this ad campaign. They are all so smart but the blue tarp camper gets me in the heart. Growing up in the NW, I cannot remember a single family wilderness trip that was not spent in the rain under a tarp. The dog says it all. Ahhh - for the good old days!

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

RalphF — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 07:55:31 GMT

"This is because you live in Kirkland, a small enclave of ex-Californians and a few New Yorkers."

Hahaha. That's a good one. I live in Kirkland also, and you are correct, I am one of the ex-New Yorkers. It is true that the NW stereotype is a little bit less true in the Silicon Valley influenced Lake Washington East Side (Kirkland, Bellevue, Redmond)...but I like it because it provides a "transition zone" for those of us who are trying to acclimate ourselves. :-P

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Matt, Boston — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 10:59:39 GMT

There should be a commercial where they show someone in Seattle throw a giant fish to someone else who wraps it up (the marketplace) . Never being to Seattle, I would assume most locals cringe every time this is on. It seems that any show highlighting Seattle has this stock footage. In Boston, they always show Quincy Market which is a little schlocky (understatement). I guess its better than Ben Affleck.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Stuart, Seattle — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 12:45:42 GMT

You forgot can't merge into traffic guy or let's drive 10 miles below the speed limit in the passing lane guy.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

MAD, Concord, NH — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 12:48:56 GMT

Hmmm....

Another unique thing about the Puget Sound area: all those mom and pop teriyaki joints and espresso huts. Not to mention the best Thai food in the States!

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Addison, Austin TX (Formerly Washington, DC) — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 15:16:38 GMT

This could just as easily apply to Austin, TX or Washington, DC though you might have to add a few more characters. The "Perennial Capitol Hill Staffer" (grey suit and alternating looks of inspiration and dissilusionment) for DC and the "Urban Cowboy" (Cowboy Hat, business suit, drives a Hummer, and constantly listens to Willie Nelson and Johnny Cash) for Austin, TX.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Finnegan, Baker, OR — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 15:51:33 GMT

How about 'Thinks the Northwest Ends at the Cascades' guy?

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Amanda, Pendleton Oregon — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:10:04 GMT

I think this only describes the cities of Portland, Eugene and Seattle. If any of these people ever ventured outside the cities into the country or god forbid east of the Cascades, they'd see how diverse the Northwest really is.

FYI-Bend is not in Eastern Oregon, its in Central Oregon

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

John Hunter — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:38:14 GMT

I grew up in the cultural center of the universe (Spokane) and I see a lot of my friends and family in these ads. I'm bringing my Confused East-Coast Transplant wife back home this fall. Should be good for a few laughs.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Dave, South Jersey — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:38:21 GMT

I have a silly question.... how can people wear socks with sandals? Never mind the fashion no-no as some would call it, but when it rains all the time, your socks would get soaked and that would be uncomfortable. Either sandals with no socks so they can dry easier or socks with sneakers so the water can't get in!

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Leslie Minnesota — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:42:03 GMT

Love it!! Missing Oregon with a passion. Would move back but too many dang Californians have polluted it. Love the stereotypes because even in Sisters, OR, (next door to Bend), the grunge stereotypes meet the coffee drinking stereotypes and happily shared their space with the Wrangler jean girl. Oregonians love to hate Californians and I would say that is the number one pastime!

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Ann, San Diego, CA (former eastern WA native) — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:00:08 GMT

I guess I should've known that people would complain about the stereotypes, and I was a little disappointed there were less Eastern WA caricatures, but I thought these were spot-on. My dad absolutely wears socks and sandals, we camped in the rain, my brother jet skis in Lake Chelan, and I am an ever-hopeful Zags fan...these are great :-)

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

BC, Seattle, Wa. — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 20:35:21 GMT

Their ad agency is DNA Brand Mechanics here in Seattle, and an excellent campaign, if you ask me...

and to Dave in NJ, oddly, the socks and sandles DO make sense, when it rains here, it's NOT a soaker -- think of going to Canada in March...that's the weather here a lot of the time...

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

BAY, Bothell, WA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 20:41:42 GMT

I grew up in "Cow Town" Orting, Washington with six or seven dairies and a very large cheese factory in a town of 1,500. I can identify all of my friends and family in these profiles (both the country and downtown types) and they self-identify themselves as the same. Transplants generally meld in with the rest of us within three or four years (unless they are uptight, poser prigs who wear Prada or Dolce & Gabbana to Ozzies or the Kirkland Ave. Pub.) because it is just less stressful to wear jeans and a nice shirt. Dressing to the 9s around here means something completely different than anywhere else in the world (I’m ex-military and have been around the world a few times so I know what I'm talking about.) My wife, who is from Alberta, goes crazy with the passive aggressive "yeah-no" saying or" yeah, I get what you are saying, but no, I don't agree with you." Me: I'm a cross between the NW action figure (I love extreme sports), IT middle manager (work at Microsoft as a Sr. Manager) and Belltown regional fare Uber- foodie.(My first job was a Sous Chef for a 4 star resort and I love to cook for my friends and family).

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Kristin, Foothill Ranch, California — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 20:54:10 GMT

Leslie Minnesota,

Why do Oregonians hate Californians? We don't hate Oregonians. And we love the PNW. Don't understand it, but we still love it!

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Hello, Philly Burbs — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 21:32:23 GMT

Only Old Man on the EastCost wear socks with there scandals. Made sure that stays out West!!

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

James R., Idaho Falls, ID — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 21:48:37 GMT

"I have a silly question.... how can people wear socks with sandals?"

I'm one of the socks with sandals guys. I used to live close to Portland. I loved wearing socks with sandals because of how comfortable it was. The weather would be a day that was warm with a cool breeze, overcast, with a hint of mist. I loved wearing denim shorts, a t-shirt, with my socks and sandals. I still wear that attire here in Idaho when weather permits.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Megan, Richland, WA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 21:56:35 GMT

I agree. It does seem like there are fewer caricatures for the Eastern Washington folk, though I still like all the other caricatures. As a suggestion, I would do an ad centered around the difference between the green west side of WA and the brown east side of WA. People from outside the US or even those who have never been to the east side often seem suprised that there are no big pine trees over here.:)

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Johnny & Elena, Paris, Texas — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 22:20:42 GMT

I just took my Russian fiance' (who has world class experience and tastes and is a nature-lover and educated-people lover) to Seattle and the surrounding area for a week. She and I both thought the place was excellent. Most of the people we met were not annoyingly quirky and pretty much all very polite. She has a passport with no space left to stamp and I did 24,000 miles and 6 countries last year. We both agreed it's a world class city and a gorgeous region and we're going to move here as fast as we can. She's into homeland security with photography sideline and I'm a high school teacher with business software background. Just hopin for an opening in Puget Sound area.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Shannon, Portland Oregon — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 22:38:53 GMT

I think that everyone from the PNW needs to stop saying how great it is hear and live by the words of Oregon's 30th governor Tom McCall, "Come visit us again and again. This is a state of excitement. But for heaven's sake, don't move here to live."

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Ken Olson — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 23:21:27 GMT

TO Dave in Louisiana:

I am 4th generation Oregonian and agree with you a 100%. Where did all these DORKS come from?

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Paul, Richland, WA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 23:25:35 GMT

The Pacific Northwest is bigger than just the west side of Washington and Oregon. Your stereotype only fits those smaller geographical regions of WA and OR. Those of us who live in larger, dry, and sunny east side of WA and OR definately do not fit the same mold as your stereotype (thank goodness). Limit the wet-side stereotypes to the west side and don't presume to think the wet-side speaks for the entire Pacific Northwest. The east and west sides have nothing in common with each other and should be separate states.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

monkeebacon, Eugene, Oregon — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 23:45:03 GMT

Howdy! I was once confused-Midwest-girl, but now I'm ride-my-bike-in-the-pouring-rain-lady. I've lived here for 8 years and am proud to call it home, while wearing sandals with socks. As my new-to-the-Northwest friend from New Hampshire would say, "Live free or die" and this is as close as it gets.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Bryan S, Federal Way, WA — Thu, 01 May 2008 03:07:23 GMT

I have been a Pemco customer for years now as a native Washingtonian, and I can attest that their customer service and company attitude in general definitely matches the area. On a personal note, these are the kinds of things that make me loathe the thought of leaving the area.

As a customer, I have done my duty searching and comparing time and time again their services and products with other companies, and I can say that every time I have looked to see if anyone is cheaper, etc, they beat the price and have the best service hands down.

Here's to Pemco for a truthful ad campaign and a wonderful company! Never change!

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Avalon Jones, temporarily in Aberdeen, WA — Thu, 01 May 2008 04:52:05 GMT

Born and bred in the PNW, lived on the East Coast for a while and then the Midwest, now temporarily back in the PNW before relocating permanently to Japan; love the PNW and its endearingly quirky people and bizarre weather, always have, always will. I've been all over but this place is always home to me.

Shannon: I remember hearing about a sign on the Oregon border, facing south, years ago; the sign allegedly said, "TURN BACK NOW. WE SHOOT EVERY THIRD CALIFORNIAN, AND THE SECOND ONE JUST PASSED."

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

RC Houston — Thu, 01 May 2008 14:30:56 GMT

To Dave in Louisiana

There are dorks of different stripes in all parts of the country. I grew up in Spokane, lived in Seattle for 11 years and since have lived in several parts of the US, now in Houston. Some might think you good ole boys in Luziana do nothin but chase gators, catch catfish and drink beer (I have a friend with a fishing camp in Lafayette, which has a weird pronunciation but that is a different story). Being a dork is relative. We beleive the PNW that includes both sides of the Cascades and Idaho as well as No CA is a great place, just don't like the rain on the west side of the mountains. Each part of the country has its own positives and negatives. PNW dorks are fine just as Louisiana dorks are fine as well, even if a different breed. Same applies here.

And if anyone cares, we have been to NYC several times since 2000 and have found New Yorkers to be friendly, helpful and decent. As with most people, they respond to the way people treat them. It is our differences that makes the US great.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Oscar Contreras, Tucson, Arizona — Thu, 01 May 2008 15:52:19 GMT

I lived in Seattle during the "60's and graduated from the "U-Dub" as a result. I have fond memories of the Pacific Northwest and all the places mentioned. I was also an entertainer in several of the venues there where I met a lot of people of different likes but with a satisfaction for having chosen this beautiful area of our country. I still have a few friends who continue to wear pendletons and socks with their sandals, I still do and I now live in Tucson, Arizona! Regards to all of you.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Resident, Walla Walla, WA — Thu, 01 May 2008 18:15:26 GMT

Weally, weally wiked wiked Walla Walla Wine Wine Woman Woman weference weference.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Audry, Des Moines, WA — Thu, 01 May 2008 19:57:23 GMT

I am for sure the blue trap camper and when I saw that ad I e-mailed it to all of my family because it brought back memories of us as kids.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Sue in Seattle — Thu, 01 May 2008 20:01:51 GMT

Dave in South Jersey, I live in Seattle now, but am originally from NYC (with a few years in north jersey). Since moving here 3-1/2 years ago I actually have never used an umbrella. It never rains hard like it does in NJ/NY. So, while I don't do it, it's totally possible to wear sandals with socks.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Kristine, Eugene, OR — Thu, 01 May 2008 22:09:13 GMT

I just cracked up when I ran across this blog today. I work for a different insurance company based in the Pacific Northwest, but I'm wearing socks with sandals as I write this and I think PEMCO's commercials are great. Blue-tarp-campers unite! It's better than scorpions in your tent.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

rob schleiger portland oregon — Thu, 01 May 2008 22:54:13 GMT

grunge sucks

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

tonyE, irvine, ca — Thu, 01 May 2008 23:42:11 GMT

I used to live in the Puget Sound area. Moved to Southern California a long time ago. We do travel to see the family up there quite often -like just a month ago.

A lot of the stereoptypes of the NW are from the imports from Marin County and the East Coast. The old NW'rs have low ID number REI cards (you oughta see how their eyes pop at the REI store...), know what Ufda! means, remember when the Bremerton Ferry was bigger than the Winslow and can still taste the Tacoma Aroma.

Also, in the old NW folks knew how to drive in the rain. We never stopped for that. All of them transplants today freeze on the 405 when it rains... Yikes!

Anyhow, I love the NW but it's too cold for me, I love California's fast freeways and I think Margaritas are better than coffee.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

K Taylor, Chehalis, WA — Fri, 02 May 2008 00:06:02 GMT

How about rubber boots to the Post Office? We are also a "Carhartt" county, Lewis that is....

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Janine, Alexandria, Virginia — Fri, 02 May 2008 00:27:12 GMT

I grew up in the Willamette Valley, western Oregon. Few folks in N. VA where I now live know how to correctly pronounce Oregon, much less Willamette. Later I lived in Portland, and then Seattle, and my folks are from the central and eastern part of Oregon so I feel pretty well versed in most PNW aspects. And I love every aspect! I miss Fred Meyer, a lot. I LIKE having gas pumped for me. I love breathing the air. You can keep your windows open because there aren't a lot of bugs! I remember one time coming to a four-way stop in Seattle's Queen Anne district. There were four of us all there at about the same time, and everyone actually waited for someone to make the first move. The drivers made eye contact! It was a treat-that would never happen in DC.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Keith, Kennewick, WA — Fri, 02 May 2008 00:31:44 GMT

For the person who wonders why wool socks with sandals when it rains; if you've worn wool where the weather is wet, you know that wool continues to insulate, even when wet. Not as well, perhaps, as dry, but it still is better than barefoot.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Duane Rancho Cucamonga Ca — Fri, 02 May 2008 01:36:16 GMT

My brother managed K-mart stores for 20 years, being transfered from store to store. When he transfered to the downtown Seattle store, he quit so he wouldn't be transfered out of State. He bought a house in Puyallup and hasn't been seen much from since.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

The SASS Man, Spokane, Wa — Fri, 02 May 2008 02:58:55 GMT

Hi from Spokane. I can most certainly relate to these. My grandmother is like the Bloomsday-tee-shirt-collector, except that her collection is from the Clayton, Wa "Brickyard Days" fun-run; and I qualify as the obsessive-compulsive-recycler-dude. Most of my friends are 'Zags' to at least some degree.

These ads are something like the political cartoon caricatures, where artists emphasize the most glaring features of political or media figures. This campaign points out the most striking and interesting features of all of us. We can relate to these commercials because they really are US. In some form, or in some place, these are people we've really seen, or have actually been ourselves.

My hat's off to Pemco. They could never hit it so close to home...if they didn't really live here.

SASS has Spoken.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

A Long Way From Home, Dublin, Ireland — Fri, 02 May 2008 10:07:13 GMT

I am a (now slightly homesick!) Long-Coffee-Order/Belltown-Uber-Foodie from Seattle who has been living in Europe for the last few months and this made me smile a slightly teary smile! But one question though... why are there no gays in any of these profiles? Come on PEMCO, if you were really all about the PNW at least one of these profiles should feature the openly gay local politican and his husband or lesbian who owns a coffee stand that does better than the Starbucks next door!

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Kamilche — Fri, 02 May 2008 16:01:24 GMT

Pemco also has lower rates since they don't have to insure for tornados, hail storms & Katrina victims, only tsunamis, earthquakes & lahars in downtown Orting.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

M. San Francisco, CA — Fri, 02 May 2008 19:01:37 GMT

what about the use the left turn lane to cut to the front of the merge on 1st south bridge guy? (after all, nobody else is using it) I used to hate that guy!

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

jeff w vancouver washington — Fri, 02 May 2008 20:53:04 GMT

PNW ,great place to vacation, come visit and spend money, I will say hello to you, at least the young ladys !!!!

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Justin, Austin, TX — Fri, 02 May 2008 21:28:35 GMT

It's the voice of the guy that does the lexus commercials and the ads are a rip off of the Bud Light "Real Men of Genius" campaign. Probably the same ad agency...

Somewhat funny...

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Mario Couturier, Lewiston, Maine — Sat, 03 May 2008 11:28:49 GMT

I recently visited my son who moved to Wa. 3 years ago. I was just amazed on how friendly the people there really are. It was actually very noticeable. I live in the Northeast and wish the people around here were as friendly and nice. Thumbs up to the people of the Northwest. It's too bad that the rest of the country doesn't follow your example.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Ruth Jaynes, Kennewick, WA — Sat, 03 May 2008 18:30:41 GMT

We live on the so-called 'brown side' of WA. Investigate our pix and you'll find lots of camping scenes with blue tarps strung all over between the evergreen trees, dripping! and the family gathered (under one) 'round the campfire roasting gunk-free chicken sausages! :) Way to go ..PEMCO !!!!

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Bruce, Des Moines,Wa — Sun, 04 May 2008 11:42:19 GMT

"I have a silly question.... how can people wear socks with sandals?"

We wear socks and sandals because we think Croc's look stupid.....I wear socks & sadals when I take my pet geoduck out for his daily walk,(I tow him around in a bucket of water on a skateboard). I also take along my pocket raincoat,sun glasses and some SPF 500...don't want to burst into flames if the sun suddenly comes out

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Stacie Spring, Spokane, Wash. — Sun, 04 May 2008 23:42:34 GMT

I'm from Spokane and am going to college at Arizona State University. When I flew home the first time, I flew through Seattle. I sneezed and someone said, "Bless you." And it hit me. Only at home are people so friendly. Nobody says anything to you if they don't know you down here.

Oh, and my dad's the socks and sandals guy.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

brissen, Zeeland, Mich. — Mon, 05 May 2008 01:57:40 GMT

I grew up in Michigan, moved to Corvallis, OR in 1977, Newburg, OR (S. of Portland) in '81 & to Eugene, OR in '83. Then back to Mich. in '87. I miss the NW intensely & even more after reading the above blog. I love wearing socks with berkies, it is SO comfortable! And I agree with the above, it doesn't downpour in the NW like it does in Mich, it's more of a constant drizzle (in the winter)! I am a recyling fanatic & family in Mich. don't understand that. Thanks for bringing up a lot of good memories!

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Dave, Colorado Springs, Colorado — Mon, 05 May 2008 06:13:45 GMT

Oh Man. I just read through all the profiles.
I laughed till I cried. Then reached for another Henry's and realized I just drank the last one within 800 miles. Then I cried some more.

Growing up in the Willamette Valley, It took me 6 years of living in Colorado before figuring out no one else wears socks with sandles. It seems as natural to me as the wet stripe up a bicyclist's backside.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

John Sturgill, Portland, Oregon — Mon, 05 May 2008 06:42:23 GMT

As a life-long Portland resident, I think it is interesting that the Pacific NW seems to be defined as Seattle. Portland and Seattle are about as similar as New York City and Boston, but oh well. To address one of the comments made about this article... To generalize, people from the NW are far too passive-aggressive to hate anyone, including people from California. But we are frustrated that people from California decide to move here because they love it, but then proceed to try to make it more like California. And, I absolutely agree with the folks who say that Eastern and central Washington Oregon and most of Southern Oregon are not described in this article. These parts of the states share much more in common with people from Boise, ID and Casper, WY then they do with people from Ashland, Eugene, Hood River, Portland, Seattle, Tacoma, and Bellingham.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

MK, Boston (formerly Tacoma & Kirkland) — Mon, 05 May 2008 15:25:34 GMT

So funny! For an insurance company, I'm surprised Pemco hasn't warned Transplated East Coast that Smug Hybrid Owner will stop at the traffic light when it turns yellow. Now that I'm on the East Coast, I'm slowly getting acclimated to running the yellow light and crossing the street before the WALK signal.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Mike, Scranton, PA — Mon, 05 May 2008 20:11:55 GMT

I'll never forget being in Portland and having some dork who was working in a Dell store at a mall rip me
for pronouncing it OR-A-GONE. Sorry people, but that's how most of the country pronounces it.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Jack Magley, Wabash, IN. — Tue, 06 May 2008 03:06:41 GMT

I attempted to wear socks with sandals here in Indiana. The reviews were less than favorable, but I completely agree with everyone who says that they are extremely comfortable. Out west you guys must have a bit of pioneer left in you. :) haha

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Johnny Rockhead from "Philwee" — Tue, 06 May 2008 16:21:58 GMT

Very interesting stereotypes for your people.

For some, the east coast has it's own feel as well.

Being from Philadelphia, if we had a slogan, it might read something like: "Philadelphia, it ain't for everybody" or "Philly, where something's in the water, definitely something"

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Melissa, Athens, OH — Tue, 06 May 2008 17:50:09 GMT

HA HA HA LOL. I live in Ohio now, but my Oregonian husband and I LOVE the northwest. We're happiest on the overcast days here. I think I'm a Blackberry Hunter. Thanks for making my day.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

James, Federal Way, Wash. — Wed, 07 May 2008 06:14:33 GMT

I really dislike these ads and cannot relate to them at all.

Besides, the idea was funny years ago when Budweiser was doing it. But even they kept it going a few years after it stopped being funny (Mr. Fuzzy Sweater Guy and Mr. Makes-Change-in-the-Offering-Plate-Guy, anyone?)

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

David Seattle WA — Wed, 07 May 2008 16:19:00 GMT

Let us not forget "Walla Walla Wine Wine Woman Woman" another classic NW profile as we all know about the Pacific NW's wineries and the fabulous vintages they produce.
Like the ad says: "We're a lot like you a little different" says it all doesn't it?!

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Webfoots Unite! — Wed, 07 May 2008 18:25:05 GMT

Now that's funny. Had to go to the site after reading these great comments and see the ads. Native Oregonians from the Wet Side, hubby & I are both "Sandals & Socks Guy" with a passing resemblance to "Pony-Tailed Software Geek", as well as "Obsessive-Compulsive Recycler." He is definitely "Blue-Tarp Camper, and when I was growing up, I thought everyone was a "Blackberry Hunter." We aren't "Smug Hybrid Drivers" because we're holding out for the Volt or Aptera, or some other ridiculously-green vehicle to replace our aging Subarus with (and honestly, is there a town with more Subarus per capita than Ashland, Oregon?). Gotta love the NW...even the dry dusty side too.

Oh yeah, and does working in public radio count as "Public Broadcasting Pledge Drive Volunteer?"

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Brian, Michigan — Wed, 07 May 2008 22:43:56 GMT

wow... an entire region of the country where hands are devoid of callouses...

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Matt, Jerusalem, Israel — Mon, 12 May 2008 07:56:34 GMT

I think the "upitty-hates-Californians-Guy" is missing from the campaign, though not from several of the responses.

What a pity. California has the PNW, including all of these characters, as well as the wine-country, agricultural crowd, snooty city folks, raging liberals, Hollywood gliterati, American SW desert crowd, Asian markets, Hispanic flair, and many other unique and diverse attractions and people.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Paul, Bismarck ND — Tue, 13 May 2008 18:41:12 GMT

What's really funny is people who can't find any truth in some stereotypes. I live in North Dakota and found it really hilarious when people here saw the movie "Fargo" and said, "We don't talk like that." Yes we do! That's why it's funny!

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

D. R. Hunter, Nanuet, NY — Wed, 14 May 2008 03:52:57 GMT

The stereotypes are for real, I've known every type of Northwesterner described in them! I moved to NY about a year ago, and this website made me pretty nostalgic for the place. I even submitted my own profile, based on my experiences in the Olympic Peninsula.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Bubbles, Las Vegas, NV — Wed, 14 May 2008 23:32:42 GMT

I now know what to tell my friends when they (jokingly) ask me why I'm so weird. I'm from Edmonds!

P.S. Edmonds, Seattle, and pretty much anywhere near the Sound are the best places to vacation in the summer if your looking for scenery that is not completely dried out.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Bill, North Carolina — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:47:02 GMT

There is a huge difference between those living on the west side of Stevens Pass, and the rest of the PNW. Those not living in the Sound are normal as far as the boundaries of normality can be stretched. Creatures loving the life in the Sound are rude, bad-mannered, self-absorbed, deeply affected by SAD, indifferent as to pride, and yet strangely vain, fearful of change and in general poorly educated. The quality of products that are produced by the Sound are embarrassing and at times downright dangerous. After a grueling 4 year study, our company relocated to a more temperate region. There were prolonged sighs of relief as the jets passed over Mt. Rainier heading east by the staff. We have never looked back. Occasionally jokes are made on rainy days, "At least it's not Seattle!"

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Denis Seafore — Fri, 16 May 2008 14:01:13 GMT

Living in the NW for the last 20yrs I've come to appreciate the quirky NW native. Pemco is such a small insurance company that to even be considered as a new customer you must have an excellent credit rating, perfect driving history in other words walk on water.

Also if you have a claim they will take good care of you just before they cancel your policy.I find this very high handed but there underwriting guidelines are there to keep the company solvent and in profit.

This is what happens when you are insured with such a small company. One major catastrophe and you can say bye bye to Pemco.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Dave, Seattle — Wed, 21 May 2008 15:05:01 GMT

Sounds like Denis knows something about insurance operations, but very little about the facts. It's public knowledge that PEMCO in fact has one the highest retention rates in the industry. To me that suggests D. Seafore's observation about PEMCO so readily cancelling claimants is urban legend. How do I know? Been with PEMCO for 20 years, have had numerous claims and never once cancelled. I pay my bills, I take care of my property. Would never consider any other insurance carrier.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Dave, Seattle — Wed, 21 May 2008 15:26:24 GMT

Oh and one more thing for Denis. A catastrophic event will not bring PEMCO to its knees. That's just plain crazy. Well managed insurance companies re-insure for items like earthquake, tornados, hurricanes, etc. This is all watched over by a very "engaged" Insurance Commissioner in the State of Washington. Probably one of the best Insurance Commisioners/depts in the the country. Check 'em out at; http://www.insurance.wa.gov/.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

bj — Wed, 21 May 2008 18:53:53 GMT

instead of pissing money away on stupid tv ads, maybe pemco should evaluate their homeowner's premiums they charge. Just cancelled pemco over them raising my premiums by 18% this year (no claims ever with them) and moved my policy with the same exact coverages and saved 22%. bye-bye forever pemco.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Mike Bailey, Marysville WA — Fri, 23 May 2008 19:31:57 GMT

To Dave in South Jersey,
Socks and Sandals guy wears wool socks usually so even if they do get wet, they'll still keep your feet warm!

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Katie, Phoenix Arizona — Sun, 25 May 2008 20:30:09 GMT

Hey, I love the Northwest, and I love it's anti Californian bigotry. It's great to hate! I've always been somewhat confused by the Northwest's seeming oblivion to their own form of intolerance. Here's a newsflash- all those "Californians" that you hate so much came from somewhere else before they were in California. I think you just got tagged "it" and just as Califoria lost it's charm decades ago, due to a huge influx of the disenchanted from everywhere else, it's your turn. I still genuinely love the Northwest, but it's disheartening to read so many complaints about outsiders. Growing up in the 60's all I heard was complaints about "hippies", now it's "Californians". If everyone can find a way to tolerate people who are different, eventually they'll see the virtue of sandals with socks and flannel shirts. You can convert them to true Northwesters, you just need to keep being your wonderful selves and lay off a bit of the hostility because it waters down the real charm and virtues that you are trying to claim as your own. Sorry for the preachy tone, but I felt like it had to be said. VIVA the Northwest, VIVA blue tarps and birkies, and especially muddy boots, microbrews and excessive caffiene intake!

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Gizmo Girl, Spokane WA — Wed, 28 May 2008 20:46:10 GMT

So true that Eastern WA / North Idaho folks differ from the "Coasties" portrayed in most of the profiles. California / Granola / Hippie type transplants have transformed the West side into a hybrid version of where they came from (jupiter? mars?) I love the ad though - its fun to be able to make fun of ourselves and enjoy the humor instead of taking offense to it and losing the overall message. All I can say is long live the PNW weirdos and all of the different niches available to lose oneself in. The only bad thing that could come from this ad? - The chance that it might influence someone to relocate to Washington State permanently - it may seem like a great place to live but don't be fooled - we BITE!! Come visit and spend your money though - anytime :)

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Alicia Kirkland, WA — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 23:09:06 GMT

It's us dorks that make the big bucks. Lay off.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Chucko, Baker City, Oar-ee-Gun — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 03:23:01 GMT

For Mike in Scranton - and all you others non-local-yokels: Oregon is pronounced: Oar-ee-gun. And almost any pickup truck you see in eastern Oregon will have a gun or two in its rack, and oars with the boat it's pulling behind it. But we won't shoot you for your mispronunciation

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Haley Nicholas, Salem, Oregon — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 00:16:15 GMT

Salem, Oregon representing.

and lol, yes they are ALL true.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Rene', Hoquiam WA — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 23:37:30 GMT

I moved to the PNW from Minnesota, and was freaked the first time I saw people wear pajamas to the grocery store!
Nine years later... well, I still won't go shopping in my pj's, but I'm a LOT more relaxed about life!

I'm a Prius - driving computer nerdette...

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Kirsten, Portland, Oregon — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 18:20:54 GMT

I'm from Portland (Oregonian born and raised) and its SO true! You can spot a tourist/nonlocal a mile away by the umbrella, Columbia Sportwear is our offical uniform, and if you don't recycle- we just might kick you out of the state! We get a lot of flack for our tree hugging and earthy nature, but have you seen how absolutely beautiful the Northwest is?? There is a method to our maddness, and if we intend to keep it that way. We are proud of the Green direction we are taking our state but we feel frustrated that the rest of the country hasn't caught up or doesn't want to see the writing on the wall. We are all in this together and its time to step up. So recycle your plastic, use canvas shopping bags, consider the CO2 emissions when buying a new vehicle, hug a local farmer, and compost to your heart's joy! Oh, and just remember if you visit here, watch out for the cyclists. They WILL run you over. :)

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Jeff Maas, Seattle Washington — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 00:30:02 GMT

I hope this gets through the screener. What is wrong with you people!!!! Please quit promoting mediocrity by praising this worn-out, nauseatingly phony-folksy, and just plain stupid advertising campaign that either Seafirst or WAMU was doing in the 80's. I forget who it was but maybe that is a testament to the downside of "fun" advertising. Is somebodie's mom writing this stuff?? These are dated and irrelevant stereotypes that only speak to the multitudes of transplants anyways. I prefer my insurance company to be a little more focused on the conservative business of insurance like Allstate or State Farm than these companies that rely on gimmicks like lizards, "cutesy" advertising, or trying to create a "Northwest" type.
Believe me, if your house burns down, this Pemco advertising campaign is not going to be funny anymore if you are having trouble with your claim.
Insurance is not supposed to be a joke!
Please support real comedy and stop the insanity!

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Jeff, Olympia — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 21:17:15 GMT

Most dorks come from out of state. California being the biggest culprit. Thats why people in the northwest aren't fond of Californians, the mass influx of people has only raised the cost of living for people already here. You sell your house in California for some ungodly amount, then move here because its "pretty" and housing is cheaper. I will tell you one thing, I think the northwest was a much better place before it became cool and people wanted to be here. Alaska here I come. About the commercials though, they are pretty humorous.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Proud to be on this side, Richland, WA — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 17:35:06 GMT

Oh my gosh I despise these commercials! Being from Eastern WA I'm one of those that's very proud not to be on the west side, and these stereotypes are just awful. We may camp, hunt, and everything in between, but we're a lot more sophisticated than a blue tarp and they sure as heck aren't strung up between evergreens. In fact, good luck finding evergreens in many places save for Christmas time. And the only time suitable for wool socks is underneath snow boots on those rare occasions it actually snows in the TriCities. Oh, and that camping? We take our full size gas gulping trucks, and man are we proud. It's hot. dry. and the "right" side of the state in so many ways.

We're not them

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Ken Wiebe, Tacoma, WA — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 22:40:57 GMT

I thought I was the only one that hated these ads. I'm also a Pemco customer and I think it bothers me even more, knowing that it's 2008 and their website STILL is just a couple pages listing phone numbers and email addresses, whereas Geico and others let you manage your whole policy via the web. I can even turn off paper docs and go all-electronic for my Geico motorcycle policy. I guess Pemco isn't so hip after all, since Geico is obviously into the "green" thing and Pemco can't keep up. Pemco: When will you stop wasting the premium money I send you each month on stupid ads and invest in a 21st-century web presence?

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Amanda — Sat, 29 Nov 2008 19:42:36 GMT

I imagine that PNWers have the same problem going east as southerners do going north. I live in West Virginia (look! we have electricity now!) where for the most part people are pretty friendly, and "hi, how are you?" constitutes an entire conversation even with strangers. Go farther north, though, and it's like all the friendliness just gets sapped right out of people. I went to NYC once and made the mistake of frequently smiling and nodding at people when they or I got on an elevator. Even a simple "hi" seemed to baffle them. I'm sure they're great people with friends and family, but they definitely don't appreciate smalltalk.

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Blue Eyes, Spokane Wash — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 14:21:41 GMT

I landed here after surfing on homesick for spokane...when I was 18 I couldnt wait to leave, and I did, for the Air Force. Then I came back 15 years later. I missed so many things, the sweet smell of the air on a cool summer night, the beautiful summer days at the lake, watching the gold and red leaves drift to the ground in the fall, cussing a storm up having to rake the blinkin leaves up!! But my all time favorite, sitting by the christmas tree in a dark room, only the tree lights on, glowing colors all around staring out the window as the snow falls to the ground. And going outside for a midnight walk in the snow, with everything glowing white as bright as day, the smoky smell of wood burning mixed with the crisp bite of the air. I miss my home, there is no place in the world as good as the pacific northwest. I visit once a year for 6 weeks, but it never seems to be enough. I live in Australia with my hubby, so I know first hand, the grass isnt always greener on the other side. I love Aus, but spokane will always have my heart!

We're a lot like Pemco says we are

Vickie, Eatonville WA — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 06:35:19 GMT

OMG I just heard the NW profile #1 radio ad and you really hit the nail on the head with that one. Just the sheer mention of a POSSIBLE snowflake and all *&#@ breaks loose with school closures, employees calling off--and the #1 reason is just like the ad says "I live on a HILL!" I laughed all the way to work!