It’s time for another Take Five, HOH’s chance to get to know a member of Congress with five fun questions relatively unrelated to the business of legislation. This week, Rep. Steve Chabot, R-Ohio, breaks down his love of history, Cincinnati and dogs over cats.

Q. As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?

A. A lot of different things at different points. Probably the longest term as a kid, probably an airline pilot. It’d be interesting to fly to different places. Never did it, but that’s what I probably wanted to be. Wanted to be a schoolteacher, and I did do that. Never thought of being a politician when I was very young, but one never knows how things are going to turn out in one’s life.

Q. If you could’ve been born or come of age in another era or decade, which would it be and why?

A. Perhaps when the founders were founding America. That would be an interesting time. Also, I think, seeing the tumultuous times during the Civil War would be very interesting. My dad was a WWII vet and he’s told me a lot of stories over the years.

Q. Speaking of which, do you have a favorite Founding Father?

A. I guess Jefferson, for a whole range of reasons. He was certainly a Renaissance man — not that I am! But he certainly was. And we also attended the same university, the College of William & Mary in Williamsburg, Va. And even though the Democrats claim him, I think he was more of a Republican.

Q. Cats or dogs?

A. Definitely dogs. We’ve got a bichon frise, and we’re just dog people. I don’t have anything against cats, but definitely dogs. They depend upon you, you know. They clearly love their owners, and cats are very independent.

Q. What’s your favorite thing about Ohio?

A. Cincinnati. The people. The food. The Cincinnati Reds and the Cincinnati Bengals. My family, who’s been there since my parents moved there. That’s where we raised our kids; our first grandchild was born there recently. The church festivals in the fall: lots of people; good food; if you’re a candidate running for office, a lot of handshaking; people keep you grounded. They don’t hold back as far as telling you what they think you ought to do when you get back to Washington. It’s just a good climate.