Patrick Goughary, Senior Editor

I was arrested once, for Attempted Moustache. My mother turned me in. Being a juvenile, the judge let me off with probation and a warning against growing facial hair until I turned 16. My rehabilitation led to an optical degree, and I worked in the optical field until I landed a teaching gig in, yes, optics. Seeking the classical education I somehow missed, I went on to earn an M.A. in English (Creative Writing) from Rutgers-Camden. I currently teach a variety of English and optical courses at Camden County College. I interned with PBQ as part of my course work in the spring of 2000, and stayed on because it is so rewarding (and they have dirt on me.) I read mostly fiction for The Bride, but can hold my own with poetry when the need arises. I also serve as the team’s eye care professional. Reading all these submissions takes its toll on the eyeballs, not to mention the eye gouging that often occurs during our democratic process of poetry selection for upcoming issues. Oh, and I sometimes warm up the crowd at our 1st Monday poetry readings with my “musical renderings.” By the time I finish my set, people are begging to hear some poetry. Come see for yourself!

Sun sign: Libra (Libra’s rule!). Favorite flick: Lawrence of Arabia. Favorite book: Jitterbug Perfume by Tom Robbins. Shoe size:13 – You know what they say: big feet…big shoes! Nickname: Trick Cell phone provider? Cingular. Any pets? Two stained glass fish: Seconal and Nembutal. Favorite drink? Beer. Do you use toothpicks? Don’t need them with beer…Diner of choice: The Elgin. Vegetarian or meat lover? meat AND vegetables…and beer. Pet peeve? Wordiness. Fondest memory? Too personal…Last night… my date and I went to a PBQ poetry reading and open mike night! Where were you? When I woke up this morning… “Well I woke up this morning and I got myself a beer…The future’s uncertain and the end is always near…Let it roll, baby…roll.” Favorite food? Chili. Best time to call? When I’m walking out the door…Secret ambition? Rock Star