As the Big Tomato, I'm the guy in charge of the day to day operations of promoting the World's Largest Catsup Bottle as a roadside tourist attraction in Collinsville, Illinois. This retired water tower is a world-famous landmark and an excellent example of mid-20th century roadside Americana. I've done all the graphics, marketing, and PR for the Catsup Bottle since 1995. With my wife and a couple of tremendous volunteeers, we run 2 websites and produce a fantastic, family-oriented, kid-friendly festival every summer to raise money and increase awareness. We also coordinate all of the Catsup Bottle appearances in magazines, books, newspapers and on TV and in movies.

I've worked at Engraphix since the time when it was known as Engraving Unlimited. Back then it was X-acto blades, rubber cement, and a Compugraphic typesetting machine. Eventually the company morphed into Engraphix Architectural Signage - a major manufacturer of corporate signage, custom retail displays, and environment graphic systems. There's never a dull moment because we do such wide variety of things. I handle all the graphic chores pre-production and manufacturing - everything from initial concept sketches to technical installation drawings.

I have always and probably will always do freelance graphic design work. I enjoy it and I seem to have plenty of friends, family, and associates in need of my skills and talents. My work consists of graphic design, advertising layout, photography, copywriting, public relations, guerrilla marketing, and promotions.Current roster of clients include:The Comedy Addiction Tour, American Road Magazine, Billy Bob Teeth, The Mattea Law Firm, The C.I.A. Classic Car Club, and the World's Largest Catsup Bottle Fan Club.

The Governor's Awards program for the Illinois Governor's Conference on Tourism recognizes innovative tourism promotional and marketing initiatives from across the state. CVBs, marketing organizations, trade associations, chambers of commerce and private sector companies submit entries. It's a real honor for me to be the "senior member" of the judging committee. It may be my favorite volunteer effort of the year!