Nick's music is about passion and so is his life. Here are some of the things that Nick loves: KIDS: Nick has been a mentor for over 15 years at the St. Laurence K-8 School in Elgin, IL. He teaches, provides music education, computer skills training and counseling for "his" kids, and takes pride in their achievements. He has watched them go on to fight in Iraq, go to college, become skilled tradesmen and women and even get married. As each new class enters the school, Nick and the kids form relationships that give every indication of lasting a lifetime. This year, one of "his" kids, who is in college on a music scholarship, is his summer intern! FISHING: Taking his father's advice several years ago not to let the music business become all-consuming, Nick took up a sport that he had loved as a child - fishing. He loves the contrast to his music career that fishing provides, and spends as much time as possible on the lakes and rivers of Illinois, Wisconsin and occasionally other states when he has a chance. He really enjoys fishing for bass and catfish, and is looking forward to a trip "up north" later this year to catch walleye. Nick has held the record for Shabanna Lake in Illinois for the largest catfish caught, a matter of extreme pride! FAMILY: Nick has been blessed with a large and loving family who are his biggest supporters. His mother Juanita is his best friend, and her guidance and opinion regarding music and life are a major influence. He has a wonderful brother, much loved nieces and nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles and enjoys family gatherings for the special events they are. Although much loved family members have passed, Nick never forgets them and he feels their love daily, especially his father and step-father, aunts and uncles, and grandparents and great-grandparents, all of whom were actively involved in his life. FRIENDS: Friends are important to Nick in many ways, both new and old. He still has friends from his childhood and has made many more along the way. He has a ready smile for everyone, and enjoys meeting new people. Nick has a big sense of humor and laughter is really a big part of his life, and his friends share in this on a regular basis!