ICONIC Jun 2014 | Page 16

organizes bi-weekly parties for Sapore Cafe in Kirkwood. “PPR does everything from commercial video production, crisis communications, and contract negotiations, to event production, organizing it, securing press, and then attracting people to the event. People have asked him what is his biggest talent or most important trait. “I would have to say being conscientious and persistent. Being conscientious and persistent can help you maintain a strong moral compass” stated Parker, who credits his mother for this trait. Being conscientious and persistent starts when you’re a child, and can be seen early on. “ Since hanging up his whistle, Parker has buried himself in charitable organizations. He is a Board member, affiliated with, or has done work for The Adoption Exchange, The Viral Cancer Research Foundation, and The Crisis Nursery just to name a few. He recently was named to the Board of the 1904 World’s Fair Charitable Foundation. He alsso headed a national campaign for the Leukemia Lymphoma Society titled P.A.L.L. (Professionals Against Leukemia Lymphoma) to raise awareness and funds to battle the disease. Parker emcees a dozen events a year for various organizations, he is an accomplished speaker, regularly booked by local talent agency, Talent Plus. He is a published Author of two books, and continues to write for various publications throughout the country. As much as he is on the go, he does make time to relax. “I’m still passionate about sports. I’m a big Rams and Cardinals fan.” He says he draws much of his inspiration from his new wife Rebekah, whom he married last August. “She has been my biggest fan, and the person who has shown me what true love for another person really is.” Rebekah said “John works at a speed most humans can’t. He can carry on two conversations at once, quote three newspaper articles from today and process all that information at the same time. I appreciate that he’s different from other than people.” She added “I’m not sure John sleeps. He gets e-mails at 3 or 4 in the morning. I sometimes wonder if he sets his e-mail messages on a timer to make it look like he’s up. What makes him good is that he’s passionate. He really believes in what he says; he’s not just telling you something. He’s very persuasive.” Parker is also a big fan of good restaurants in the Lou and a good cigar. He and Rebekah can often be found in the cigar lounge at Brennans in the Central West End. Parker, keeps himself grounded. He does not drive a Mercedes. He 15 It’s Christ Or Nothing