Town: Live in Princeton, but from Tiskilwa.

Family: My lovely bride, Mary; two children, Joshua and Amber; and one grandson, Braydyn.

Occupation: Mechanic/truck driver.

What was your first job: Well, when you're a male from a farming community, it goes without saying that come Memorial Day and July Fourth you'll be on a hayrack baling either hay or straw. The only time I can remember getting out of that job was the summer I had my tonsils out. As for a real job that paid more than a pat on the back and an 'Atta boy!', about like everyone else in this area, detasseling with Chester Graft and his group. Really enjoyed that job and the people I met. Many of them I still keep in contact with. When I got a bit older, I worked at McDonald's. Another wonderful experience where I met some super people. I'd recommend both for a youth wanting to get work experience. A lot to be learned and, quite honestly, the work really was not that difficult.

What is your favorite movie: So many to choose from, but if I had to choose it would be "The Name of the Rose" or "Dead Poets Society."

What is your favorite book: Without a doubt it would be "Ender's Game" by Orson Scott Card.

What is the best concert you've been to: REO/Styx combination in 1996.

If you met a genie who granted you one wish, what would you wish for: Powerball numbers.

What's the hardest thing you've ever done: Put down a pet … you don't forget those moments.

Where do you most want to travel, but have never been: I'd actually like to see Mount Rushmore.

What is one thing you're truly passionate about: Let me choose two and both of them are taboo in social conversation. Religion and Politics. Want to see me get real animate? Start a conversation with me about either one of them.

What is your favorite area restaurant, and what do you like to order there: Ray's Place has closed, Garden Room has closed. I/we no longer have a favorite … searching for a casual quiet place for a family meal where we can order family style chicken and we don't have to fight the noise levels or crowds. The restaurants around here are either really noisy and crowded or not very good.

What is something you like about your hometown: I consider Tiskilwa my hometown … I simply live in Princeton. When the town had a school there was 'pride' throughout the whole town. I was proud to be from that little town and a product of the school system. I wish all kids could grow up living in an environment just like we had in that little bit of paradise down in the valley. There is still a lot of pride in the town, it's just not quite as exuberant as it once was.

Is there anything you would change about your hometown: I would have left the grade school in the town. A town with a school has a 'pulse' about it with youth around. There is a sense of hope and wonder, as well as community. I know that the world is changing but there are just some things that make monetary sense but yet are not for the betterment of the community. Losing the grade school fits that category.