Matthew Pothoff, a resident of Dubuque County, has always been driven by his interests in sports, history, and the outdoors. Born and raised in Epworth, Iowa, he developed a love for sports early on, particularly baseball. He played the game until 19 and was involved in football, basketball, and tennis during high school. These athletic pursuits taught him valuable lessons in perseverance, teamwork, and discipline, all of which have contributed to his personal and professional growth. Today, he is still an avid fan of the St. Louis Cardinals, Green Bay Packers, and Cleveland Cavaliers, following their games with great enthusiasm. Professionally, Matthew works as a Paint Line Laborer in a metal fabrication role; he is responsible for applying coatings to metal products, which demands careful attention to detail and precision. He takes great pride in ensuring that the products he works on meet the company's quality standards. Before entering the metal fabrication industry, he worked in the automotive sector from May 2016 to August 2018. During this time, he gained valuable skills and learned the importance of teamwork and collaboration, which have served him well in his current role. Matthew’s academic journey took him to Hawkeye Community College, where he studied Criminal Justice. His time in the criminal justice program helped shape his sense of integrity and responsibility, values guiding him in his professional and personal life. The lessons he learned during his education continue to influence his actions, helping him navigate life's challenges with fairness and respect for others. Sports have always been an integral part of Matthew’s life. While baseball was his first love, he enjoyed playing football, basketball, and tennis during high school. These experiences taught him how to work as part of a team, handle pressure, and maintain a positive attitude, even in the face of challenges. His time in athletics has shaped his mindset and helped him develop a strong work ethic that he carries with him today. In addition to his athletic interests, Matthew has a deep passion for military history and firearms. His curiosity about firearms began early in life and eventually led him to start collecting surplus military rifles. Each rifle in his collection has its own story, and he enjoys learning about these weapons' historical context and significance. His interest in military history extends to a broader fascination with the strategies and tactics used in past conflicts, which he continues to study and appreciate. Matthew enjoys spending time outdoors, where he can unwind and connect with nature. Hunting is one of his favorite outdoor activities, and he enjoys hunting for deer, turkey, and small game. He also enjoys camping, which allows him to disconnect from daily life's stresses and enjoy the natural world's peacefulness. These activities help him maintain balance and tranquility in his life. Through his commitment to work, sports, and personal interests, Matt Pothoff continues to lead a fulfilling and well-rounded life, always striving to learn, grow, and stay connected to the things that bring him joy.