Hoosier Banker 15 VIDEO BONUS cian’ who knows when the camera is on. “When we’re having meetings at the governor’s residence, Henry wanders in and makes himself at home. He overhears some things that maybe he shouldn’t, but the secret is safe with him, because we haven’t figured out how to translate those barks yet. “I could learn a thing or two from Henry. He has more followers than I do, he’s been mentioned on the TV show Jeopardy, and he gets invited to fundraisers and weddings. “I was asked if Henry could attend a wedding, and I said, ‘I’ll have to check to see if we’re in town.’ They said, ‘No, Eric, you misunderstand. We want Henry in our wedding photos, not you.’ “Clearly, he has his own base.” HB they’re skipping steps to be nipping at our heels, and that’s good. All of us have to raise our game. “One thing that makes me so enthusiastic about the future in our state is that aspirational approach to take it to the next level and to never settle. Our task will never end. We want to make sure that we keep providing an environment for growth.” How have your years in the U.S. Navy shaped you? “Significantly. It was the ultimate experience in realizing from day one at boot camp that everyone is equal. Everyone has a shot to determine their own destiny through hard work, through carrying out orders and by treating people with respect. “The camaraderie that comes with that is profound. It means understanding that the unit is only as strong as the weakest link. It means asking how to assist someone who is struggling in some area, myself included, and how to help that individual rise up. That camaraderie helps the team carry out its mission. “It also underscores serving a cause much greater than yourself. I’ll never have a job more fulfilling than wearing a uniform, and now in civilian life to serve the state which I come from and love.” What influences drew you to a life of public service? “It was not a straight line. It was one thing leading to another, but primarily it was my enjoyment in serving others, even predating my Navy experience. “I’ve always enjoyed being around others on a team and experiencing how we perform together – each having different roles, each being different – and seeing what we could accomplish together. That goes back to when I was a little guy playing third-grade basketball. “Throughout life, whether it was serving in student government or in the Navy or elsewhere, I had people I could look up to. There were my parents and coaches and commanders in the Navy and my predecessors in the political arena. They all understood that, together, we are much stronger.” Gov. Eric J. Holcomb delivered the 2019 State of the State address on Jan. 15, saying: “Indiana is on a roll, and the state of our state is strong.” View a one-minute excerpt by clicking on the video icon in HB Digital. First Lady Janet Holcomb is multitalented – skilled in business, the arts, equestrian sports, shooting and safety, and more. What are some of the duties as first lady that Mrs. Holcomb especially enjoys? “She really enjoys helping youngsters who are seeking out their future, so she has gravitated toward helping and volunteering in those pursuits. Mrs. Holcomb really lights up about her work with the Riley Children’s Foundation – where she serves on the board – or 4-H activities or Girl Scouts. She’s drawn to those activities and enjoys helping kids find their way. “She also does much more. Janet serves on the board of the Indiana FBI Citizens Academy, she’s vice president of a family business in Madison County that her father started 50 years ago, and she’s a competitive shooter and expert in gun safety. I don’t like to shoot with her, because it’s annoying how good she is. “Janet grew up in 4-H activities and Girl Scouts, and she understands the whole ‘team’ aspect of life. Plus she enjoys the outdoors as much as I do. I married up.” ‘First Dog’ Henry, your miniature schnauzer, has his own social media accounts with thousands of followers. What’s the secret to his success? “Henry’s not a politician, he’s a ‘pawlitiAt his Statehouse desk, Gov. Holcomb sits across from a placard that reads: “There is no limit to what a man can do or where he can go if he doesn’t mind who gets the credit.”
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