Steve Brenner, 44, is the risk manager for the Sterling Park District, where he handles duties such as safety coordination and human resources. He lives in Sterling with his wife, Andrea, 45, and their three children, Aaron, 16, Abbie, 14, and Aviva, 8. Steve is the son of Larry and Ruth Brenner of Niles, and has one sister, Lisa, 40, of Niles.

On-the-job lesson: Be prepared for anything new on a daily basis.

Alma mater: I graduated in 1984 from Maine East High School in Park Ridge. I graduated in 1988 from the University of Illinois at Champaign with a degree in political science, and in 1991 from Northern Illinois University with my law degree.

Hearts: Running and working out, and family vacations. I coach the distance runners for the Sterling High School boys track team. "The Marriage Ref."

Darts: People not using their energy to help other people in a positive manner.

Haunts: Our parks here, and running and biking the trails.

Hero: My wife. She seems to make an effort to help people every day in some manner.

First job: I was a cashier at the McDonald's in Niles when I was 16.

First car: A 1988 Plymouth Colt when I was 24.

Read this: A David Baldacci novel.

Phobia: Bugs.

Guilty pleasure: Watching as much sports as I can.

I'd like to meet: Abraham Lincoln.

In the dictionary next to: Hard-working.

Trading places: I'd like to be an Olympic athlete.

Trading spaces: I'd like to visit Germany.

Best thing about Sterling: The friendliness, and it's a great place to raise kids.

Shout out: The Sterling High School boys distance track team.

Do you know someone who ought to be featured in Know Your Neighbors? Write to Phil Hartman at phartman@svnmail.com or call 800-798-4085, ext. 524.