People you should know - Jim Govro

Age: 41

Key responsibilities: Manage day-to-day operations of a regional shopping center to include leasing, operations, marketing, finance, security, maintenance, housekeeping, government relations and community involvement.

How long have you lived in the area? I actually live in Perryville, Mo., but I have been in the area and working in Cape Girardeau since May 15, 1995.

Hometown: I was born in St. Louis, Mo., but my home, to me, is Cheyenne, Wyo.

Education: High school graduate! Greensburg Community High School, Greensburg, Ind.; one semester of college, but at that time, I knew more than my professors!

Community involvement: Board of Directors, Cape Girardeau Chamber of Commerce; president of the Friends of St. Francis; vice chairman, Salvation Army Advisory Board; Junior Leadership Cape committee member; Vision 2020 committee member; Little League baseball coach.

Professional background: United States Air Force for eight years in active duty; Missouri Air National Guard for 10 years (two more to retire!); MayCenters Development Co.; Centermark Properties, Westfield Inc.

Name a businessperson you admire and why: Harry Rediger. The patriarch of retail in Cape Girardeau. He has taught me so much in the area of how to run a business with dignity, class, and a sense of fairness that most people do not believe exists in today's business world. Harry, my hat is off to you. Thank you for all your help.

Last book read: "Jaguar, the Definitive Book of an Automobile." What do you expect from a gear head?

What you wanted to be as a child: This is easy. A cowboy, six-shooters and all.

How did you choose this career? I answered an ad in the newspaper. Faith moves in mysterious ways. Who knew?

What is the biggest obstacle you've overcome and how: Separating from active duty in the U.S. Air Force. It was a big bad world out there. By the help of Mom and Dad with their love and understanding. It sure is great to have parents to be there for you.

What advice would you give to someone new in your field: Stay focused, one step at a time and build a team you are proud of. It worked for me.

Hobbies, interest: Horsemanship, rodeo, old trucks, Jaguars, fishing, driving my tractor, coaching baseball and spending time with Sandy and the kids.

Accomplishment you're most proud of: Finding my wife, Sandy, and having five great kids: Christopher, Ashley, Krystal, Jimmy and Matthew.

Secret ambition: To one day have the greatest horse ranch in the Midwest. I'd settle for a new barn and two ponies.