This Paxton-Buckley-Loda graduate faced a few back-to-back, dream-crushing disappointments that changed the direction he was going each time. A knee injury and something as seemingly benign as not being picked up for an appointment, led Matt where he always wanted to be. After leaving a few steady labor jobs and a downward turn in our nation's overall perception of law enforcement, Matt became a Champaign Police Officer. 

 Listen as Matt tries to enter the military twice and finally listens to the universe's advice to find another dream. This dream comes from an overall need to serve others. In the wake of George Floyd's death, rioting, looting, ransacked businesses on North Prospect and across our nation, Matt "ran into the burning building," so to speak. From going to help repair and clean up the areas of unrest in our community, he joined the local police force when applications dwindled and positions became more prevalent. Working nights, worrying family and friends, drawing your weapon and pulling a girl off the train tracks. Of course, I have to ask about my recent ticket for not having a front license plate, ticket quotas, if crying helps get out of a ticket and why he will pull you over every time for driving and being on your phone.

Emily Harrington, here! Mom, wife, retired communications liaison and host of the HyperLocal(s) Podcast. Each week I bring you a pod where townies and transplants share their tales of tears and triumphs, losses and wins. In an effort to provide a way for those that don’t want a public podcast, but still have a story to tell friends and family, I’ve created, In Retrospect: A HyperLocal(s) Project, a private podcast. Visit hyperlocalscu.com/in-retrospect

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