Went into business with my dad in 1971, he retired in 1984. As a twenty one year old, I was running an auto repair shop in White Plains and three years later married my sweetheart Marlene in 1974. Four years later we started a family with my first born son, Kristopher who I love very much and has grown to be very successful. Three years later my son Michael was brought into the world. He grew up to be a fine young man, whom I am very proud of and now has come to work with me in the business! My beautiful daughter came into the world in 1985 she is such a joy and I’m very proud of her! Running a business meant long hours but I always made time to spend with my family. Family was and is the most important thing in my life. My business was small but successful. We were able to raise our children and enjoy a wonderful life. My business model was simple. treat people the way you would want to be treated and never take advantage of anyone. Nothing has changed in that respect. My word is my bond and my handshake is a symbol of my commitment to be true to my word. I love my clientele and my job well done is when my clients tell me how happy they are to have me. What better compliment can a person receive! That kind of feed back warms my heart!
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
We enjoy Morton’s Steak House for special occasions.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
Over 50 years.
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
Danny Berger.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
I would love to go to Italy and experience the great food and see the architecture.
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
Star Trek.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Be kind, treat people with compassion and be your best at whatever you do.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
Lose the bucket.
Q: What is your go to band when you can’t decide what to listen to?
Boston
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
David Chong and anywhere he would like to go.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
The County Center and going to the Circus with my family.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
J&J Presto Service Center, Inc.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I love to try to get lost riding my motorcycle.
Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
Riding through upstate New York.
Q: Favorite month? favorite holiday? and best single day on the calendar?
May, the month we got married. My favorite holiday is Thanksgiving. My favorite day is Saturday.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
A good night sleep!
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
God!
Q: What is one or two of your favorite smells?
The fragrance of a rose!
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Wife, family and rest!
