Tape 1, Side 1, through Tape 2, Side 2. In the first interview session, conducted on February 11, 1993, Ashbaugh discusses his family background and early life in Heppner, Oregon, including his high school experience, working at Safeway as a teenager, and his experience recovering from scarlet fever and polio. He talks about his involvement with Retail Clerks Local 1257 while working at a clothing store in Portland, Oregon; shares his reasons for running for the position of union president; and describes the changes he made after he was elected. He also discusses his reasons for not completing law school.