Porter Goss

At press time, U.S. Rep. Porter Goss, 65, wasn't leaving Congress to enjoy the beaches of his hometown, Sanibel Island; President George W. Bush had just picked him to head the Central Intelligence Agency. That's a full-circle career swing for the former CIA officer, whose résumé also includes stints as a Sanibel newspaper publisher, Sanibel's mayor and a Lee County commissioner. Elected to Congress in 1988, Goss has been honored by local and national groups for his strong record on conservation.

Birthplace: Waterbury, Conn.

Most notable characteristic: Other people say my integrity.

One thing I'd change about myself: My age.

What I love about my work: I was drawn to intelligence by an intellectual interest. I was drawn to government service by indignation-people acting like politicians rather than public servants. I was attracted to both by a sense of duty to my country.

Most-admired trait: Stretching one's potential-fully using one's positive abilities and skills.

Heroes: I don't like hero worship, and I like celebrity worship even less.

Would trade places for a day with: Osama bin Laden-then I would make a telephone call and tell you where I am.

Favorite book or music: It depends on my mood. I can get just as lost in a Carl Hiaasen novel as I can in a classical evening at the Phil or a production at the Barbara B. Mann.

People might be surprised to learn: I trust with caution-after all, I wear suspenders and a belt.

Perfect day: A day with no deadlines.