For 25 years, Earl Peterson has been in the tow business, and for twice that amount of time, Peterson's wife, Rosie, has been keeping him in tow.

The Peterson's have owned Phil's Automotive and Towing since 1985 and agree the business has provided them and their family with a very good living.

AAA also appreciates the Peterson's business and recently recognized them for 25 years of towing service to its customers.

"We went to an event at a really nice hotel, winery and restaurant in Lodi, where AAA presented us with a plaque," Earl said.

When the Petersons bought the auto repair shop and towing service from Phil H. Harris, the business had two tow trucks, a 1975 Ford F500 and a 1969 Chevrolet three-quarter ton.

Today Phil's Automotive operates five tow trucks, the oldest a 2010 International, and the newest a 2010 Ford.

"The most we have ever owned at one time was nine," Rosie Peterson said.

"We can tow up to a 32-foot motorhome and a 14,000-ton commercial vehicle," Earl Peterson explained. "We offer towing services 24 hours a day, seven days a week."

The Petersons have three tow truck drivers, including their son Mark. Their son Rocky just left the business to become a dispatcher for the Corning Fire Department.

A master mechanic, Earl Peterson said the family moved to Corning from La Mirada in 1977 and he worked for Corning Ford. He then began working for Phil's Automotive.

"I don't do any mechanic work anymore. I'm pretty much just a paper and pencil pusher now," he said. "The success we have seen over the years is due to the support of our employees and our customers. Although the recession has hit and business is off, just like it is for everyone else."

But that doesn't dampen the Petersons' love of Corning.

"I would do it all again," Earl Peterson said. "Both our sons live close by and we love it here."

Rosie Peterson, who worked for the Corning Union Elementary School District as a teacher's aide for 30 years, agrees.

"I have been happy to be partners with Earl in life and in our business," she said.

Peterson believes he has seen a lot of improvements in the community since moving to Corning, "a lot of positive growth."

As for retirement, at 70, he said he and his wife haven't even talked about it.