Our People: Cooking central to life of native

Eric Hall was born and raised in Clovis. He graduated from Clovis High School 1991. He is he son of William and Mary Hall. His mother taught him how to cook and his father taught him how to barbecue, which served as the catalyst to cooking at the annual Juneteenth celebration at Potter Park in Clovis.

Hall has always loved cooking and it had been a dream of his and his brother, Anthony Hall, to start a food truck business. The dream came to fruition just short of two years ago. In his other work, Hall has worked in auto sales for 15 years. He said he appreciates the work opportunities he's had throughout the years.

He enjoys boxing for workout at the gym. He said boxing relaxes him. He also enjoys watching football, cooking and spending time with his family.

What do you like about your job?

I like both of my jobs. Selling cars has enabled me to start my own business. My brother, Anthony, and I are partners in the food truck business.

What don't you like about your job?

The winter season is tough for the business because everyone gets sick and no one wants to go out. We shut down before the holidays and will be opening back up in March 2018.

What's your idea of a perfect day?

A perfect day for work would be waking up and selling two to three cars. But personally, just waking up and being able to see my parents is a perfect day. Everything is a bonus after that.

When you were a kid, what did you think you'd be doing as an adult?

I always thought I'd be a motivational speaker. When I was younger I always was the one who got to read the MLK Jr. speeches at church every year.

What's so great about your favorite sport?

Boxing. My dad was a professional boxer. I followed in his footsteps and started boxing young until I was about 22 years old. I still love the punching bag. I use it everyday. I go to the gym at least 4-5 times a week.

What's your favorite taste?

You'd think I'd say BBQ, but I love tacos. My favorite are chicken tacos.

What's your favorite smell?

My favorite smell is my mother's cooking. I love Thanksgiving time because the kitchen area is permeated with great smells.

What do you like to do when you're not working?

I like to work. Everybody's here for a purpose and our job is to find out what it is and live it. I like to read motivational books when I'm not working.

What is your favorite quote?

Every morning I wake up I open my two gifts which are my eyes and everything else is a bonus. -Eric Hall

What do you envision your life being like in 5-10 years?

Being more of a positive role model. I decided to stay in Clovis because I feel it's up to each generation to better the community and be a good example. I talk to kids all the time. I tell them that even though they're in a small town that their level of success is up to them. I get up every day motivated because I haven't seen anyone work as hard as my parents and they never gave up. There's no reason for me to ever give up.

— Compiled by The News Correspondent D'Nieka Hartsfield