People you should know 3/10

Age: 32.

Key responsibilities: Membership recruitment and retention, leadership programs, community development programs, educational programs, training programs, special projects.

How long have you lived in Cape Girardeau: Seven years.

Original hometown: New Madrid, Mo.

Education: Bachelor of general studies from Southeast Missouri State University with an emphasis on sports management; currently pursuing a master of science in administration with an option in public administration.

Community involvement: I am currently the manager of the Cape Girardeau Yankees Senior Babe Ruth Baseball Team. I also coordinate the Fall Baseball League with my wife Tracey, Dave Meyr of Cape Girardeau and Rich Gross of Jackson.

Professional background: I worked with the university for three plus years in the Recreational Sports and Athletics Departments. I have also worked with an area parks and recreation department and managed a golf driving range.

Name a Cape Girardeau businessperson you admire and why: Many business leaders in the community are aware of the good work John Mehner does for the chamber, but I can't say enough about the energy and vision he brings to our organization. I am fortunate to have such a great mentor.

Last book read: "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People." (I read it some time ago, but continue to reference it from time to time) I have read books since then, but none that influenced me as much.

What I wanted to be when I was a child: If you ask my mother she will tell you I wanted to be a policeman and a tiger. Actually, I always envisioned a career in politics. (I was class president of DAR at New Madrid Elementary in grades 4-6!)

How I chose this career: It chose me. When I took this position it seemed like an interesting challenge until the next challenge came along, but it got its hooks into me. This is the challenge I have been looking for. I would have to say the greatest pleasure is working with such an incredible group of community leaders.

Biggest obstacle I've overcome and how: Coming to grips with the realization that, hard as I try, I will never be a tiger. (I guess I'll have to settle for being a Tiger Fan!)

My best advice to someone new in my field: Integrity. Without it, you won't last long. Don't make promises you can't keep, and make sure you keep the ones you make. Invest in relationships. Forget what they say, you can burn the candle at both ends and it's a lot more fun!

Hobbies, interests: Baseball is my passion, but often I wish I had more time for golf. I am also a professional couch potato.

Accomplishments I'm most proud of: My son Zachary. Fatherhood is the greatest gift any man can be given. I am also extremely proud of my wife, Tracey. She is a consummate professional and my best friend. My parents and brothers are also sources of inspiration for me. They have each carved out their own success, and I am blessed to have them.

Secret ambition: Someday I would like to succeed a dynamic Chamber president in a growing community of 40,000 or so people. I would want that community to be located somewhere in the Midwest, perhaps between St. Louis and Memphis on the I-55 corridor. Of course, I would only want the job after he has had a long and illustrious career and is good and done with it!

Next week: Kevin Cantwell of Big River Telephone.

WHO DO YOU KNOW?

If you know someone who should be featured in "People You Should Know," contact Scott Moyers at 335-6611, extension 137, or by e-mail at smoyers@semissourian.com.