I'm from a small farm in Lawrence County, Southeastern Illinois. I was the youngest of five children; I received my elementary schooling in one and two room schools, eventually graduating from Lawrenceville Township High School.

I farmed with my family and continue to work in the fields, farming for myself and working for friends and family.  I married in 1955 and with my late wife Carol, raised 5 children.  Church work, speaking engagements, the activities of five children, fourteen grand children and six great-grand children are the mainstays of my busy life.

With no formal education I began speaking in local churches in the late 1960’s, quickly becoming known as the speaker who can make you laugh and cry at the same time.  Since then I have accumulated a storehouse of poems, readings, scriptures and great American orations.  I was patriotic long before 9-11, speaking for many special events involving Veterans groups, Civic organizations and Eagle Scouts. My Lincoln programs are always crowd pleasers.

In 2001 I qualified for membership in the National Speakers Association, traveling far and wide as the Keynote Speaker for annual meetings, programs, weddings, graduations, memorials, anniversaries, birthdays and other celebratory occasions.  I nearly always end a program with something patriotic: A Soldier Died Today, a patriotic poem about Korea, or the story of Taps.  Recently, in honor of Red Skelton, I have added a rendition of Red’s Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.  Red was born in Vincennes, Indiana, which is almost as close to me as Lawrenceville.

I've been told that what sets me apart is my unique ability to do it all from memory - no notes!!  Listeners are transported to the time, place, and situation I refer to, with emotions aroused, memories stirred, and hearts warmed.