Rick Rau for Michigan State Representative 2008.

Rick Rau, Replublican

Age: 50

Address: 604 Green Ave., Bay City

Political Background: Ran for the 97th District House seat in 1998, against then State-Rep. Joseph L. Rivet.

Professional Experience: CEO of Rau Drilling, an environmental geotechnical drilling services company.

Education: Graduate of John Glenn High School, assisted in teaching geology seminars for U of M Dearborn and Delta College.

Community Involvements: St. Stan's Athletic Club, Knights of Columbus 4102, former President of Northeastern Michigan Baseball Federation, Bay City Baseball Federation, former board member Michigan Amateur Baseball Association.

Family: Wife Debbie Rau, four children; Ashley, Wendy, Ryan and Alexis.

Quote: 'The No. 1 issue is the Michigan economy and jobs and that's my plan, to get the mitten pumping blood again.'