Every Sunday, we'll publish a quick Q&A with someone from the local political world. Instead of touching on the latest in policy issues and proposed legislation, the intent is to catch a glimpse of the person behind the title. The interviews are done via email.
John J. Mills
The Basics:
Age: 65
Party: Republican
Job Title:Minority Leader, Legislator 11th District
Family: Wife, Barbara; and three children and seven grandchildren. I also care for four donkeys, a swine and 11 piglets.
Residence: Town of Orchard Park
Education: Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration from the University at Buffalo
Legislature Salary: $47,588
County Legislature Minority Leader John J. Mills during the first session of 2012. (Sharon Cantillon/ Buffalo News)
The Questions:
What's one thing people don't know about you?
Five times a week, at 5:30 in the morning, I walk 3 miles with three very good friends. We have done this for 23 years.
Legislator Rath praised you as an innovator in the pre-wrapped sandwich industry when you were re-elected minority leader in January. How did you get started in the deli business?
I started my business, John Mills Distributing Company, at the age of 29 from a small warehouse at Delevan and Grider in Buffalo with my wife and $500. We had three young children; at the time they were 5, 4, and 1. I delivered in the morning and placed sales calls in the afternoon. One of the first products I distributed was Orval Kent Salads.
What's your favorite restaurant?
There are three restaurants I would place in my favorites category: Eckl's Beef & Weck Restaurant in Orchard Park, Mansard Inn in Orchard Park and The Dog Bar in Colden.
Who is your political hero?
Abraham Lincoln -- he was a very bright and commonsense leader who led the country through some difficult times.
What's the worst part of your job?
We are not able to adequately fund all road and infrastructure repairs that need to be taken care of each year. That is very frustrating.
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Erie County Legislature | Five Questions | John J. Mills
