We Are Whitehouse – Chatting with Mark Schriefer of the Whitehouse Administrative Office!

Give us a quick introduction. When did you start working for Whitehouse and what does your job entail?

I started working in the administrative office about seven months ago. I’ve been a Whitehouse resident for close to four years, and was excited to work for the Village.

I do various things around the office – help answer phones, assist with payroll. But I also manage the Village’s social media accounts (as a matter of fact, I had to ask myself these questions) and do some production and promotions.

Where might we see you around the Village?

During the week you can find me at Village Hall – but there’s a good possibility you might see me out and about taking pictures or video of Whitehouse. Outside of that, you might catch me at the parks or on one of the Whitehouse restaurant patios.

Do you have any family members or pets?

I have a loving wife and a five-year-old son. I also have an ornery hound dog named “Ignatowski”. (His name is a reference to a late 70’s sitcom. Bonus points if you know what it is.)

What is one of your all-time favorite movies?

JAWS. Since I’ve been 6-years-old, it’s been JAWS. I don’t think that will ever change.

What about a favorite musical artist/band/genre?

That’s a tougher question. My music preference is largely based around what mood I’m in at any given moment. All sorts of stuff. Everything from random 80’s hits to Frank Sinatra, Johnny Cash, Bruce Springsteen, Rod Stewart and a little Jimmy Durante every now and then.

What is something you get to witness within your job that others might not normally get to see or might be unaware of?

Since I’ve started, seeing the inner workings of the Village has been interesting and rewarding. There are many people working together very hard to keep everything running as smoothly as possible.

Favorite location/spot in the Whitehouse area?

Blue Creek Metropark/Nona France Quarry. It’s beautiful and a great place to take a walk.

Tell us about a unique or surprise talent you possess.

The ability to amuse co-workers with hilarious* jokes.

*Hilarity not guaranteed.

You can take a trip anywhere in the world – where do you go?

Ireland, I suppose. Not sure why. There’s plenty of places I’d like to see. But Ireland is up there.

Favorite Color?

I’ve always loved orange. Fun Fact: Frank Sinatra once said it was the “happiest color”.

Favorite season/time of the year?

I’m going to give two answers. And I think that will be allowed because I’m the one editing this all together. Overall Season? Fall – because of Halloween. Time of the year, specifically? Peak summer when the sun has set but there’s enough residual light to keep the day going just a *little* bit longer. Kid’s run around in their yards utilizing every last second. That time of year is special. It has its own sights, sounds and smell.

Can you leave us with a fun fact or a piece of advice?

If someone is walking toward the entrance to a building, and you’re able to, always hold the door for them. Even if they’re across the parking lot. I think the world would be a better place if more people held the door for each other.