Ozarks Profile - Greg Walker

What is your job?

Johnson said his primary work is as the owner-operator of the Howard Johnson Express Inn, which is located at 2535 S. Campbell Ave. "Secondly, I focus on the construction of residential and commercial buildings. I expect to break ground on two new homes within the next few weeks," Walker said.

What is your involvement with the Springfield Hotel/Motel Association?

"This is my second term as the president of the SHMA. The SHMA has been involved in the passage of the hotel/motel tax, which has been responsible for partial funding of the Jordan Valley Park and Wonders of Wildlife. The Springfield Hotel/ Motel Association is always trying to raise the standards of lodging and (to) continue to promote tourism in Springfield," he said.

How did you become involved in the industry?

Walker's initial exposure to the hotel industry was as a housekeeper in a motel owned by his mother, LaNora Walker. "Within six months I was allowed to watch the front desk on occasion. At the age of 19 I ventured out into the construction business. Like many in the hotel industry, I was lured back. I purchased my first hotel in 1998, and I continued to build and develop. Fortunately, I have now found a way to do both," Walker said, noting that he was the general contractor for the Howard Johnson, which opened in 1999. He also was the general contractor for the 25-room addition on the Days Inn-South.

Tell us about your work and the specific things you do.

"I have been known to drive the hotel shuttle, do laundry, change light bulbs, clean rooms and then rent them," Walker said. Other duties include management of the Howard Johnson staff and customer service for the facility's visitors.

In your experience, what have been some of the most popular things to bring visitors here?

"We chose the location of the Howard Johnson because of the close proximity to Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World. The Pro Bass,' as some of our tourists call it, has put Springfield on the map as a tourist destination," Walker said. He noted that the American National Fish and Wildlife Museum-Wonders of Wildlife has added to the city's "outdoor" allure. "We also work closely with the entire staff of the Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau to ensure the continued growth of Springfield," he said.

Tell us about your family.

Walker is not a native Springfieldian, but he said he has lived here since he was 3 years old. "My mother, business partner and confidant, LaNora, resides in Springfield, as does my brother. I have two sisters who live out of state who are al-ways looking for a way to move closer to Springfield. The newest addition to my family is my 8-month-old daughter, Elizabeth," he said.

How do you most enjoy spending your spare time?

When he has the time, Walker enjoys playing golf, scuba diving, reading and being with friends."I enjoy most of all my time with Elizabeth," he said.

by Maria Hoover