Orphaned at a young age, Phillip Nguyen spent his youth in Vietnam bouncing between the streets of homelessness and the occasional care of any relative who would take him in. At age 18, he landed in a refugee camp with a third-grade education and an uncertain future. How did this child of war time become a business owner and civic leader in a mid-sized American city? Join us for a touching story of pluck, hard work, and a little spiritual intervention.
“Dave Engbers, President and Co-Founder of Founders Beer finds the entire microbrew beer industry “quite magical.”
But the magic wasn’t always there.
Mike Stevens and Dave Engbers both had steady jobs when they decided to chase their dreams and open a brewery. They quit their jobs, took out giant loans, wrote the business plans and started to work.
“We wanted to live life without regrets,”Engbers shared during a recent visit with the WKTV Citizen Journalism team.
In the early work days his life was ridiculously busy.
“We built the six packs, brewed the beers, cleaned the bathrooms, swept the floors. I would work from 7:30a.m-2:00 in the morning, he explained.”
They soon found themselves on the verge of bankruptcy.
“There was always a roadblock. We thought of giving up. The business model didn’t work. We were under capitalized. There wasn’t a large craft community out there. We went through a lot of tough times but the only option was to make it work.”
It was at this point that the team decided to brew the kind of beer that got them excited about brewing in the first place: complex, in-your-face ales, with huge aromatics, bigger body, and tons of flavor. 
And make it work they did. They never gave up.
” The last seven years have been tremendous,” Engbers related.
At their new location at 235 Grandville Ave SW, which they have been at since November 2007, they have gone from 16 employees to 290 employees.
“We have gone from 30 barrel tanks to 1500 barrel tanks and 7 ft. tall tanks to nearly 6 story tanks, he explained.”
Their KBS (Kentucky Breakfast Stout) is the highest rated stout in the world.
Through persistence and hard work their beers are now distributed all over the world and the growth keeps on continuing.
“As of March 2015 we are found in 32 states and 11 countries. We have been exploring exporting to countries overseas– England, Iceland, Finland, Denmark, Mexico, Austrailia–all over the world.”
Engbers is a Hope College Graduate with a degree in Communication/English. He lives in East Grand Rapids with a young family of four children and a very understanding wife.
The Founders Family, a group of passionate beer enthusiasts, has grown around this simple philosophy: “We don’t brew beer for the masses. Instead, our beers are crafted for a chosen few, a small cadre of renegades and rebels who enjoy a beer that pushes the limits of what is commonly accepted as taste. In short, we make beer for people like us.”
Founders Brewing Co. has been lucky to evolve into one of the highest recognized breweries in the United States.
David Engbers favorite brand is obviously Founders but he doesn’t have a favorite type.
“Our beers are like our children. We love all our children for their uniqueness. There are no favorites.” he laughingly concluded.
He is very proud of his staff– who is like a second family to him– for all of their accomplishments and their extreme work ethic.
“It has been great watching everyone develop as a human being. We call it the Founders Family and we care and love one another,” he concluded. 
Check out their website for upcoming events and information. http://foundersbrewing.com/
The healing power of laughter is no joke. Just ask Sister Sue Tracy, known by some as the ‘Funny Nun’ and by many others as the former oncology chaplain at the Lemmen-Holton Cancer Pavilion and Butterworth Hospital. A Dominican Sister for 55 years, Sr. Sue is well-known in the community as an inspirational speaker, a source of comfort, guidance and hope, and a local laugh expert.
You may wonder, as I did, how does one become a laugh expert?
According to Sister, “It’s based on a lot of years of experience!”
HA! No kidding!
Experience that includes dealing with cancer for 29 years. Sr. Sue is a cancer survivor five-times over and if you ask her how old she is, she’ll gladly tell you, “74! I’ll be 75 in June. I started this journey with cancer when I was 46 years old. So to be able to turn 75 is amazing!” I watched her face light up at the thought of it.
At the time of this writing, she is challenged by the disease once again. For her, being diagnosed with cancer is not reason to repeatedly ask ‘Why me?’ It’s reason to ask ‘How will I react to having it?’ that’s important to her healing.
“When I think of humor, I think it’s going to help me jump start my immune system,” she explains.
“The humor I possess and make use of isn’t just because of cancer. I’ve always been funny. So I’m not going to allow cancer to take away my humor – It’s a natural tranquilizer, it’s free, it’s non-fattening and it’s contagious! It’s a God-given gift,” she laughs.
That’s typical Sr. Sue – a witty, wise and wonderful presence.
There’s no denying that cancer is serious and life-threatening as are many other diseases and circumstances in life. But Sr. Sue believes, “…having a light-hearted, affirming view is possible for any of us – no matter what the ‘mellofahess’ or the ‘muckity-muck’ is that wants to drown us!”
Sister Sue’s first experience with cancer was with her mother, who taught her to take life as it comes and make the best of it.
“My mother was a mentor to me in terms of seeing life as a gift and as a challenge. When it becomes a challenge, you rally whatever sources you can to meet the moment as it unfolds.
“She said, ‘Sue here I am, this is what it is and we’ll take care of it!’ She lived for 15 wonderful years after her diagnosis.” Her mother and father died the same year, both from cancer.
For Sr. Sue, having battled breast cancer in 1986 and 1993, then non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in 1999 and many basal cell skin cancers in between, her most recent diagnosis, she admits, has been the most stunning and startling to accept.
“In June 2014, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma was discovered in my cheek. Then in November, it had the audacity to go north to the brain! It’s only been in the last month that I’ve gained confidence that I’m gonna pull through. But there are certainly nervous moments about it.
“I may die of cancer some day, but not yet. I have this interview to do first,” she adds with a smirk.
When she finds herself facing the darker moments, Sr. Sue says there is no denying that it is happening. “I don’t run away from what is real. I don’t want to move into a pity party and I don’t want to be stuck in fear because that’s not going to help.”
As a result, Sr. Sue admits she has not had a ‘big cry’ over the situation.
“God has the big picture. It is meant to be – it is not a mistake. I wouldn’t choose it for myself or anyone else but here it is! I can’t back out of it or laugh out of it. But I can laugh with it!
“This is part of my spiritual journey as much as it is my cancer journey,” adds Sr. Sue frankly.
Her journey has led her to discover that it’s in being vulnerable and fragile that people become more connected to each other. “There’s a soothing sense of belonging when you’re in the midst of this. I feel I belong to other people on the cancer journey and I’ve treasured my opportunity to be enriched by other people’s stories too.”
Retired from being a chaplain for a little over a month, Sr. Sue has more time to take care of herself while still helping others.
“My God-given mission to journey with fellow cancer survivors will only stop the day that I breathe my last,” she says. “It’s what it is.”
In the meantime, there is no doubt that Sr. Sue is still looking for the opportunity to have a laugh or two – whether it’s dishing out a one-liner or receiving it. She loves to share a chuckle and great quotes! Here are two of her favorites that are worth remembering:
If you want to succeed in life you must pick three bones to carry with you. A wishbone, a backbone, and a funnybone. – Reba McEntire
Laughter is carbonated holiness. – Anne Lamott
As a fellow cancer traveler, I say ‘Amen’ to that!
March is Women’s History Month, a time to reflect on how far women have come in the workplace. One can examine popular culture like the television show MAD MEN to cringe at the way women were treated in the business world. In one episode Don Draper, the show’s leading man, announced to a female client that he “won’t let a woman talk to him this way.” Combine that with excessive philandering, continual sexist jokes, illicit affairs, holiday parties where male execs actually tackled secretaries the see what color their panties were and women being expected to sleep their way to anything that even resembled a management position. I had the opportunity to talk to local women to see what adversity they overcame to gain leadership in business ventures.
75-year-old Marge Wilson runs the very successful Marge’s Donut Den in Wyoming, Michigan. She’s been at it since 1975. The business just recently went through expansion and remodeling to meet the needs of the community. She wakes up at 3:00a.m. to be at work by 4:00a.m. It’s not easy and she was doubted by many when she first started. ” I remember when I first started so many men told me that it would be absolutely impossible for a woman to run a successful business,” she said. “There were so many doubters.” Look at her now. Running one of the most successful donut establishments in West Michigan. She makes and distributes baked goods, wedding and corporate cakes, brownies, cookies, muffins and donuts. She recently kept the business open 24 hours on Fat Tuesday to sell 24,000 Packzi’s and went through 2,500 pounds of dough.
Anne Doyle was a successful broadcast journalist at WZZM-TV 13. 
She is now the author of POWERING UP! How America’s Women Achievers Become Leaders, a City Councilwoman in Auburn HIlls, MI. and a global speaker. She has been tested for decades in some of the toughest leadership laboratories for women: sports locker rooms, the global auto industry, elected office and single parenting.
When she first started in reporting– in a relatively all male newsroom– she was told that it was her responsibility to get the men their coffee every morning.
How things have changed:
“My 2015 message is simply this: BE COURAGEOUS. Dare to continue raising your voice to make a positive difference. Everywhere we look, the human family is crying out for the mothers of the world — women — to step up and take an equal role in shaping the economic, cultural, educational, military and public policy decisions that impact all human possibility.”
I love the words of Admiral Michelle Howard, vice chief of U.S. Naval Operations, who is raising the Navy’s game. She recently told a Washington, DC audience, “My definition of leadership is ‘Not standing around and doing nothing while watching everything go to hell!’” Everywhere we look, things are going to hell. Pick your passion. Then put your shoulder to the wheel and let your voice be heard — particularly if you are the lone voice who brings different perspective to decisions.
Leadership is rarely easy. I draw courage from watching or reading about others in action, such as the movies: Selma, directed by Ava DuVernay; Iron-Jawed Angels and Wild, starring Reese Witherspoon. Or, pick up, “Race Across Alaska,” the fascinating book on Libby Riddles, the first woman to win the 1,000-mile Iditarod dog-sled race. Plus, right before our eyes, fabulous examples of powerful, brave and wise women are rising up and taking action. For example: •United States Congress.
We now have 100 women (out of 535) elected to the U.S. Senate (20) and House of Representatives (80). That’s nowhere close to what it should be. Two of our newest Congresswomen, Brenda Lawrence and Debbie Dingell, are from Michigan and pesonal friends. Here’s a fascinating articles on the women who led the way in the ultimate “boys club” and the sexism even U.S. Senators still contend with. •DC’s Matriarchy – For the first time in history, the Mayor, Police Chief and School Chancellor of an American city are all women — and two are women of color.
It’s time for the rest of America to catch up! •Women of Africa Rising — Kah Walla, a courageous political leader I met years ago at a global conference, is running for president in Cameroon. Her TedTalk is a must-view primer on this critically important continent. •Marissa Mayer and Silicon Sexism – 2014 brought fascinating revelations about the blatant sexism in Silicon Valley. In Marissa Mayer and the Fight to Save Yahoo! author Nicolas Carlson blames Mayer’s Oscar de la Renta shoes !!!) instead of Silicon Valley culture for any sexism she faced. The recent review in NY Times magazine is worth your time. •Actress and activist Geena Davis continues to raise her voice on behalf of girls and women. She is partnering with Coca-Cola, Kraft Foods and Walmart to host a film festival promoting women and diversity in movies.
Yes, indeed, we have come a long way baby–to get to where we’ve got to today.
Wyoming High School seniors Darren Dannah and Mitch Hendrickson know how to work a crowd.
During every Wyoming Wolves girls’ and boys’ varsity basketball home games they lead a lively group of their “peer a cheer” section where they dance, chant, and board the now famous “Roller Coaster” ride.
“Buckle up!” they shout as the Wolf Pack of about 100 students pretends to secure shoulder harnesses, making a loud “whoosh” sound. They then move in sync, arms up, as if they are on a wild roller coaster ride filled with dramatic twists and turns.
Darren, a football player, and Mitch, a bowler, have begun what they hope continues as a tradition at Wyoming High School. Students join forces to cheer, revving up the teams and crowd, and bringing a heightened sense of unity into the school day.
“We’re getting our players hyped, getting energized and it shows on the court,” Darren said.
“Everybody can show up; nobody’s left out,” Mitch said.
The effort is totally student-led, with word on the night’s theme for each game traveling through the student body. The Wolf Pack has become a sea of pink, purple, white and neon. They’ve been pajama-clad teenagers and Hawaiian tourists in colorful shirts and leis.
The students received recognition from Mlive as one of the Top 10 best student sections in the state.
Darren and Mitch spoke excitedly, often in unison, to describe the fun. They said the Wolf Pack has created a bond among students, giving them something positive to do together. It is their way to give back.
“It’s a legacy. That’s exactly what it is,” Darren said.
During the recent girls’ district game against West Ottawa, the high school students cheered the team on, with elementary and middle school students joining them in chants and dances. Wolf Pack pride has spread throughout the district.
“It’s well-known throughout the entire school that not only are these kids talented, they are nice,” said Wyoming Athletic Director Ted Hollern.
The Class of 2015 has shown great leadership, he said, showing spirit without being negative about the opposing team.
“It’s striking how many compliments we get from alumni and parents,” Hollern said. “We are all very proud. This is one thing they can do to have fun and look forward to, and give back to the school and the people that care about them.”
Godfrey Lee Public Schools, MI — Behind her beaming smile, Lee High School junior Jisel Ochoa often is considering center-stage topics in national politics: immigration policy, women’s rights, gay marriage.
Though she’s a talented student and runner, Jisel’s interests surpass sports and academics. She wants the world to be a better place, and believes young people need to make their voices heard about causes affecting their futures.
“I feel that a lot of teenagers nowadays don’t really talk about what’s going on in the world, and we should be involved in what’s going on,” Jisel said. “If we’re not involved, there are going to be all these decisions made that we won’t like.”
Godfrey-Lee Public Schools administrators recommended Jisel for the School News Network Student Leaders series because of her high involvement at school and upbeat attitude.
Brian Cahoon, an economics and government teacher, said Jisel has great potential and promise.
“It is awesome to see her genuine eagerness to be involved, and even better when you know that the person presenting these ideas is capable of legitimately making them happen,” Cahoon said. “I think it’s the sense of maturity and follow-through that sets her apart from many in her age group.”
Advocating for Change
Jisel moved to the United States from Mexico with her parents, Elva and Javier, twin sister, Jasiel, and older brother, Hector. She said she is motivated to do well in school by her background and “the fact that I left my country to come here.”
“My mom and dad would tell me stories about how it’s very different in Mexico, and it’s difficult there to be successful because of all the problems and violence. It’s hard to find a job,” she said.
Her father now works in a factory and her mother is a stay-at-home mom.
“My mom has had a tough life,” Jisel said. As an orphan, Elva had to work starting at age 9, peddling snacks to take care of her sisters. “She always wanted me and my siblings to do better.”
Because the issue is so close to her heart, Jisel is a strong advocate for a just immigration policy. Calling it “something that I strongly believe in,” she recalled hearing the term “illegal alien” during a class lesson. “I thought ‘Why are you calling someone an alien?’ I don’t believe in that word.
“To me, it’s crazy how people, when they think of immigrants, think of bad things,” she added. “They should be looking at it as a positive thing because people leave their country and leave everything behind to come have a better life, not knowing what’s going to happen.”
Jisel isn’t afraid to share her strong opinions on other controversial topics. She said she believes in advocating for same-sex marriage and that all people should have equal opportunities.
‘You Have to Keep Pushing’
Jisel has been active in student government and hopes to be elected class president her senior year. She is in Spanish Club, Diversity Club and a member of both the cross country and track teams, despite having battled several leg injuries. She also played on the middle-school basketball teams, served as a student leader on Freshman Focus, and attended the Michigan Youth Leadership Conference, which works to develop leadership potential in Michigan students.
In track, she runs the 800-meter race and 4×800 meter relay. She’s learned to apply lessons from the track to other areas of her life.
“It’s hard to go out there and run and push your body to the limit and not give up,” she said. “I feel like when you’re running you just want to give up. It’s so hard sometimes.
“Being a teenager you go through a lot of changes and mood swings. Sometimes you’re happy, sad or depressed. You still have to do your work, and if you don’t. your grades are going to drop. You have to keep pushing.”
Superintendent David Britten has noticed that Jisel is always grinning on the track and in school while working hard.
“I have known Jisel since the sixth grade, and her infectious smile and can-do spirit are always uplifting to me as well as everyone around her,” Britten said. “Many of the faculty admit that she has a knack for lighting up the room whenever she is near.”
Jisel said Britten has helped keep her moving forward.
“He’s been a huge influence on my life because I’ve known him for so long,” she said. “At track meets he is always giving motivational speeches and telling us to do better in school and keep doing the right thing.”
Something Bigger
Jisel knows a world filled with opportunities lies ahead. After graduation, she hopes to enroll at Wayne State University, Oakland University or Grand Valley State University and pursue a career in law and politics.
“I really love the idea that the United States is the place where dreams come true, because I think it’s true. It might take some time, and you have to fight really hard and stay positive, but they will come true eventually.”
As a lawyer, she wants someday to help make college more accessible to students who need a better pathway. At Lee High, where a majority of students are Hispanic, their immigrant residency status can be an obstacle for some in areas such as tuition and financial aid.
| “I really love the idea that the United States is the place where dreams come true.” — Jisel Ochoa |
“I believe there are a lot of students here who work hard, but they aren’t able to attend college because they don’t have the things that are necessary to attend college,” she said.
For now, Jisel is already thinking about ways things can improve, in class, on the race track and among her peers.
“I always felt like I can do something bigger,” she said. “I don’t know what that is yet, but I hope someday I can make change and do something I believe in.
“I don’t give up easily,” she added. “If I want to make change, I won’t stop until I do it.
See more at: http://www.schoolnewsnetwork.org/.
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Sure LaughFest brings in the big names of comedy to perform in Grand Rapids but it also gives local performers the chance to shine.
Grand Rapids native Teresa Thome is a writer, performer, comic and television producer with strong ties to the community, LaughFest and WKTV. On Sunday, March 8 she’ll be performing her one woman show called “Warm Cheese” at Dog Story Theater at 7 p.m.
Perhaps one of the most interesting show titles, “Warm Cheese” is Thome’s inspirational work in-progress account of her grief journey for her late mother. A journey that has had its struggles and its laughs. With humor and poignancy, Thome shares her revelation of waking up one morning and deciding she no longer wanted to hate her late mother. The performance is a part of LaughFest’s LaughterRx, a series of programming that highlights the health benefits of laughter and its importance in emotional health.
“I was writing about my mom long before she died,” Thome admits. “I was going to write a book about her because she was neurotic and crazy and a fascinating control freak. I could see writing a funny book called, ‘My Crazy Mom.'”
Instead, Thome was encouraged to take her experiences on stage after sharing her stories at the Aquinas Women’s Writers Series. “I would read these stories in class and people would laugh,” says Thome adding, “I realized I was giving people permission to not grieve.
“Sometimes other people want you to be sadder than you actually are when someone dies. This is a story for all those people experiencing that.”
Thome is no stranger to LaughFest. Her involvement began the first year of the festival when she and her business partner, Patrick Ziegler, were asked to help produce the Signature Events. It’s been a most rewarding and challenging offer ever since.
“It gave me the opportunity to work with Betty White, Martin Short and to meet Alan Zweibel who helped Gilda develop all of her characters,” Thome says.
“He is a prolific writer who has offered to mentor me through my one woman show process. I reach out to him for an assist every once in a while and he gives me these little tools of insight. How can I be so lucky? I have to do this show!”
Can you blame her?
Although this is the third time Warm Cheese has been performed in Grand Rapids, Thome says it’s the first time it’s a full-length show. She’s looking forward to getting feedback from the audience to help her craft her story more to perfection. And when the time is right, Thome says she hopes to take it on the road.
“I’m grateful for so much of what I get to do when I get to do it,” says Thome. “My challenge personally is, I always want to do more.”
Thome has dual residences in Grand Rapids and Los Angeles to accommodate her career as a producer and writer. When she is in town and working on a television project, she comes to WKTV.
“We use WKTV because the spirit of the people here is so helpful and supportive. It’s such an amazing gift to the community.”
Thome and Patrick Ziegler are partners of Fubble Entertainment. Together they produced an Emmy Award winning web series (www.backstagedrama.com) through WKTV. They also produced the television show, Holiday Special, last year at the station.
“I’m glad more people are learning about what you have to offer here,” Thome says.
“But I want to say, ‘No this is my station,” she adds laughing.
One Wyoming One on One was created to pair leaders in the community with students from Wyoming’s four public schools districts. The goal was to create a mentor-mentee relationship that would help students in need reach their educational and personal potential.
Mentors include leaders in the community such as city officials and employees, school administration and staff, business owners, college staff and students, church staff and members, and members from the community.
The mentoring started two years ago with 400 students being connected to mentors by the end of the school year. This year launched with 436 mentors and One Wyoming 1 on 1 is looking towards the future.
The organization met last week to decide the next step. Discussions revolved around resources that would further help the students. One resource is a character strength survey program to identify the strengths of each student that the mentors can help nurture. Another resource discussion is a JobZology job assessment tool to help guide students on their career path and interests. These two resources would not only go a long way in helping create college and career success for Wyoming students, but it would help the mentors guide their mentees along that path.
One Wyoming 1 on 1 is looking into applying for grants to help with funding for the new programs.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CXSjkSc4Fu4
By: Mike DeWitt
Citizen Journalist Tony Khodor arrived at Grand Rapids Union High School with the expectation of filming a rendition of the National Anthem. He ended up with a front row seat to one of the greatest displays of perseverance and family support you will ever see.
For Little C. Gunter, a student in the Grand Rapids Special Education Program, it was his time to shine and show off his jazz skills to the world. Tony was contacted to film the special moment for the family to keep. Halfway through the National Anthem, things didn’t go according to plan. All eyes we staring straight at center court and the “Jazz Kid” found himself in a very stressful and potentially embarrassing situation.
However, this would not be a night for embarrassment, this was a night of family and community support. Immediately Mom and Sister jumped up and came to the rescue. As they consoled Little C. Gunter, Mom kept saying, “You’re playing to me. I’m the only one here!” The Jazz Kid was able to build up the courage to give it a try one more time. Watch the video to see what happens!
Tony was able to capture that moment using equipment from WKTV and brought the story back to the station. Citizen Journalists are an integral part to WKTV serving Wyoming and Kentwood. You have special stories and we would like to share them!
If you’re interested in becoming a Citizen Journalist, send an email to mike.dewitt@wktv.org. We need your help to spread heartwarming stories to the community!
The Kentwood City Commission will interview three finalists to fill the remainder of the Commissioner-at Large term expiring this November in a Committee of the Whole Meeting at 5:30 p.m. on March 3rd. The three were chosen from recent first round interviews of 20 interested Kentwood residents. The candidates are as follows: Ed Kape Jr. of 2576 Mapleview, Steve Redmond of 5949 Wind Brook, and Ronald Woods of 5396 Discovery. The position was vacated when former Kentwood City Commissioner Sharon Brinks stepped down in order to accept the position of Attorney Magistrate for the 62nd District Court.
by The City of Wyoming
In a ceremony held last Thursday at the Wyoming Department of Public Safety, Jason Caster was named Officer of the Year, while Brian Ilbrink was recognized as Firefighter of the Year and Terra Wesseldyk was honored as Civilian of the Year. Lt. Kirt Zuiderveen received the Chief’s Award of Professional Excellence. The awards were presented by Public Safety Director James Carmody during the annual Employee Recognition Ceremony.
Caster has been with the department for 17 years, serving as a patrol officer, detective and community policing officer. He has played a key role in helping to develop several community and business groups within the City of Wyoming.
“Jason fosters and maintains quality working relationships with the various units within this department,” Carmody said. “He is an example of what a law enforcement officer in the 21st Century should look like and is someone we can all be proud to represent us as our Officer of the Year.
In addition to his duties at the Department of Public Safety, Caster is head coach of the Hudsonville High School hockey team.
“If you spend any time talking to him about this, you will see that he is passionate – not only about hockey but also about mentoring the teenage players entrusted to him. He emphasizes integrity and character in every aspect of his life,” Carmody said.
Carmody opened the ceremony by thanking all of the department’s officers, firefighters and civilian employees for their hard work over the past year.
“Our crime rates continue to remain well below the national averages, our arrests and conviction rates are among the highest in the state for agencies of similar size, and individual employee innovation and determination have allowed the Wyoming Department of Public Safety to continue to provide the highest quality of customer service to the residents whom we serve.”
Ilbrink, an equipment operator, has served on the department for 26 years. In 2014, he took over management of the fire apparatus fleet and in less than one year streamlined the program and optimized the fleet’s capabilities for the fire services’ daily operations.
“Brian’s knowledge of the fleet’s availability and service schedule has greatly assisted the command staff. He has shown his professionalism, dedication and desire to make the apparatus of the City’s fire services the best it can be,” Carmody said.
Wesseldyk, a forensic supervisor, has been with the department for two years. In selecting her as 2015 Civilian of the Year, a peer panel noted that Wesseldyk’s work has transformed the department’s Forensic Support Unit into an even better and more relevant nearly full-service forensics lab.
“She has brought the unit to higher levels of capabilities and professionalism in the area of latent print recovery and identification, and has led the unit in the procurement and implementation of our own drug testing an analysis laboratory,” the peer panel wrote. “Our forensic capabilities are something to be envied by agencies in our region, and she plays a huge role in that effort.”
Zuiderveen, an 18-year veteran of the department, is commander of the Tactical Arrest and Confrontation Team, or TACT. He was recognized for establishing the core concepts behind the department’s Employee Wellness Program, which was implemented last year. In October, 27 police officers attended and completed the department’s inaugural Officer Wellness physical fitness self-assessment.
“Lieutenant Zuiderveen has defined his legacy to this department by creating an environment that will provide tremendous personal benefits for those officers who serve today as well as for those officers yet to come,” Carmody said. “No other effort could have been more meaningful than that of providing the environment for a healthier, happier and more spiritually grounded work force that will last for decades.”
Other employees were recognized during the ceremony, including:
• Brian Kamstra, who was promoted to fire lieutenant
• Tim Pols, who was promoted to police lieutenant
• Mark Easterly, who was promoted to police lieutenant
• Rob Becker, who was sworn in as a police officer
For more information, call the City of Wyoming at 530-7272 or visit the City website at www.wyomingmi.gov. Follow the City on Twitter @WyomingCityHall and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CityofWyoming.
A cold grey day in Michigan may not seem like the best time to rely on solar heating systems, but Lou Haveman in Grandville would disagree. “We produce our own electricity,” says Lou, “and when we produce more than we need, it goes back on the grid.” More than he needs to power a house full of appliances, including his furnace? Yes, even in the coldest weather.
Lou still gets some of his electricity from Consumers Energy. But in December 2013 he installed a solar system in his home and spent all of 2014 watching his energy bills go down by nearly 60%. At 12 cents a kilowatt, that adds up to a savings of about $725.
It wasn’t all about saving money for Lou. He’s a strong supporter of what is sometimes called Creation Care – acting as a loving steward for Planet Earth http://www.creationcare.org/
Lou explains, “Simply to live in balance with nature, recognizing environmental issues need to be addressed. It’s one thing to talk about it, it’s another thing to act on it.”
And it’s not easy to take action. “Consumers Energy actually has a lottery system. They allocate so many kilowatt hours for solar. You submit your application and by lottery if you’re selected, then you’re approved.” Lou says finding someone you trust who is skilled and experienced in solar installation is critical. “Initially, I’m pretty handy. I thought this is something I could do, but realistically that isn’t a viable option.”
Some rebates or tax incentives are available for homeowners who want to install alternative energy programs. But even though Lou got lucky in the lottery, eventually found Solar Winds to plan and install his system, and qualified for a 30% tax credit, he still had to spend about $20,000 to make it happen. Still Lou looks to the future. He expects to recover all the cost of the installation in about 10 years’ time, after which his electricity will be virtually free.
“But in addition to that,” says Lou, “it’s just incredibly rewarding to look at that meter and see it run backwards. I realize not everyone has the financial resources [to invest in alternative energy], but if we do I think it’s imperative that we do so.”
For a video version of this story, click on the play button at the top of the page.
by Paul R. Kopenkoskey, School News Network
Hector Zoleta lives a line made famous by the late Sen. Edward (Teddy) Kennedy.
“Some men see things as they are and say why?” Kennedy said at brother Robert’s funeral. “I dream things that never were and say why not?”
The same question resonates in the Godwin Heights High School junior’s life.
Why not become President of the Student Council, earn a 3.9 grade point average and become a member of the National Honor Society?
Why not volunteer every other Sunday packing sack suppers for the nonprofit Kids’ Food Basket for children who otherwise would have no evening meal to eat?
“It surprised me when I first heard there are kids that have no supper,” said Hector. “I was never really exposed to that fact.”
Hector’s thirst for knowledge and living a rich and varied life is slacked in other ways as well.
He basks in the knowledge math and science make possible.
He’s played defensive and offensive tackle on the Wolverine’s varsity football team.
He’s seen around the High School helping to improve the environment by collecting paper every Tuesday for recycling.
For Hector, 16, a life full of activity, is a life with purpose.
“I started at Godwin when I was in second grade and it’s what built me up to where I am now,” said Hector. “I believe you need to be a good person and it will come back to you.”
Hector starts his day at 5 a.m. so he can get to the bus that will take him KCTC.
Hector Zoleta’s rise and shine begins long before the sun greets the morning.
He arises at 5 a.m. so he can hop in his car and make it to the bus stop at 6:15 a.m. where it will take him to the Kent Career Technical Center.
This year, he is studying the wide-ranging health careers available to bright, eager young people such as himself.
He’s talented at memorizing medical terminology, the muscular system and anatomy and physiology — both human and animal. Next year, he’d intends to study the science of preparing and dispensing medical drugs. His goal is to one day become a pharmacist.
It’s a career choice that sparked his interest when he was 10 years old. His doctor mentioned to him while giving Hector an exam he was a pharmacist before becoming a pediatrician. That enlightened conversation never left his memory.
“That sounded interesting to me,” said Hector. “Since then, I’ve talked to some pharmacists. They told me it’s a career that once you get into it, you stay into it.”
Learning the periodic table in his chemistry class is fascinating to him.
“Particularly learning how to make a completely different thing when you bond an element with another element,” said Hector. “It’s interesting.”
In the meantime, Hector stretches himself as the Student Council President, a position that affords him the opportunity understand what it means to be a leader by planning homecoming and lock-in parties. The position has bolstered his self-assurance as well.
“I’ve given speeches in front of the entire school,” said Hector. “That gives me confidence.”
Hector realizes not all his questions in his life are easily answered.
“I’m really good at math,” he said. “I don’t know why or how, it just comes easy to me. I’m currently taking pre-calculus. That’s a senior class. I’m taking it as a junior and I’m getting an ‘A.'”
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Set sail for the South Pacific with the Grand Rapids Civic Theater from February 27 through March 22. An amazing cast will take you to the other side of the world and back in time to World War II. This iconic Rodgers and Hammerstein musical tells two honest love stories from a different era where prejudice often complicated romance.
The first of these romances is Nellie’s, a lively nurse from Arkansas. Upon arriving in the South Pacific, she is quickly swept up in a romance with Emile who is a local plantation owner. When Nellie learns of his romantic past with another local, she refuses his proposal.
Lieutenant Joe Cable’s story is the second. His love affair with Liat, the young daughter of Bloody Mary who is a local grass skirt peddler, leaves him struggling with his prejudices and fears of social consequences.
Rodgers and Hammerstein’s play, South Pacific was based on James A. Michener’s Pulitzer Prize-winning book, Tales of the South Pacific. They believed that their musical adaptation could be financially successful and would also send a strong, open-minded message on the prejudices that were prevalent in the 1940’s.
In addition to the social message of South Pacific, there are the wonderful songs that are still sung today. “I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Outa My Hair” and “Some Enchanted Evening” are two of the musical’s hits that have been sung for generations.
Civic Theater has partnered with the Red Cross for this production of South Pacific. The Red Cross had a strong presence in World War II when volunteers soared from 17,000 to 7.5 million. Volunteers supported service men and women by donating blood and also serving alongside the military in the South Pacific. The Red Cross has organized a letter writing campaign that will take place during the performance. Audience members can write a note of thanks to veterans who are returning home.
Come escape this Michigan winter and see South Pacific at Grand Rapids Civic Theater. Show times are 7:30 PM Wednesday through Saturday with a 2 PM matinee performance on Sunday.
By Lou Haveman
Growing up on a farm helps one have an appreciation of nature. We never had a lot but we had an abundance of healthy, home grown vegetables, butchered our meat, and raised our own eggs and poultry, cut our own firewood to heat our home. Mom canned and later froze our produce. We had a fruit cellar for the potatoes. Carrots we dug out of the snow covered ground. We would purchase apples by the bushel and make jars and jars of apple sauce. We did not know much about environmental issues and never heard about climate change.
We were ignorant. The icicles hanging from our kitchen roof I thought were beautiful and never considered adding to the four inches of insulation in the attic. We hauled our few throw-away aluminum cans to a dry creek bed in the back forty. Our drain field, it turned out to my surprise, was the country drainage ditch from which our cows drank. We swam in the larger creek a half mile from our home. We were poor and had no money for herbicides. What pollution we caused was easily covered by the hospitality of nature.
College came and went. I became aware of the word ecology. After living in Africa for 16 years we returned to Michigan where I had found a job selling and later installing Blackberry Solar Systems for heat. It made economic sense…barely…because of the Michigan solar tax credit in the early 1980s. Gas became expensive.
Living in Africa and working in agriculture community development I had learned what it means to live simply, living in balance with nature, and being abundantly careful with the limited resources poor people have. It became a motivating factor of my life.
I purchased a large solar water heating system for a multiple rental unit we owned. Every home we lived in I established a flourishing garden. We recycled everything. We sought ways to be energy efficient. In 2013 Jan and I visited an organization called New Vision Renewable Energy in West Virginia. I saw how one could build a hydroponic garden raising vegetables where recycled water from a small fish pond became the nutrient basis for the vegetables. It was powered by solar. We sell hundreds of small solar telephone chargers and light all over the world through our small international business (www.businessconnectworld.com).
I had to take the next step, a big one, and expensive. I calculated what it would cost to provide 100% of our power off solar. The system would cost me over $40,000.00.
Learn what steps Lou took when he learned what installing a solar system would cost him – and whether this challenge altered his commitment to Creation Care. Watch for part two of the story Friday and accompanying video.
by Susan Lamos
I had just finished cleaning at my Lafayette apartment and answered a phone invite to Paulo’s for live rock and 10 cent beer and wine. I told her yes…but that I’d come just as I was — wearing old holey jeans, my well-worn CMU sweatshirt and Docksider shoes…popular in the late 80’s. The girlfriend did plead a good case of why I should join her, so I did. No extra shower. No extra make up and certainly, not one bit ready to meet “him.”
The club was busy, there was a long line out the side door to get in. The band really jamming with couples crowded on the dance floor and I had a pocketful of dimes. My pretty friend sat at the end of a long table with co-workers. She looked fabulous! Her long brown curls coifed just so. Dramatic eye makeup and shiny lips, she was a knock out! Her Calvin Klein jeans had perfectly pressed creases down the front by the drycleaner.
And me, I looked down at the end of the string in my hoodie which had disappeared into the neck seam, oh well! I took a seat at the other end of the table, stacked my dimes and put my sockless leather shoes up on a nearby chair.
There he was. “Him.” He said hello to all his buddies who flanked my girlfriend, she smiled and appeared to know this man who made his way directly to me and said, “looks like I belong here.” I’ll tell you now…he did. No socks, old tennis shoes, a hole in the material of his pants and a t-shirt. For the sake of time I’ll flash the story forward a bit, we danced a lot – my dimes disappeared and “he was hanging invisible mistletoe over my head by midnight”. It worked!
The next morning he remembered where I worked and called to ask me to lunch. There was a problem though, when his call was connected to a woman who had my same name! She declined his invitation to lunch telling him she was a married woman. His reply was, “you weren’t married when we were dancing last night!” She transferred the call downstairs to me, thank God! All the married women upstairs swarmed to ask what he looked like, where he worked and – and – and! I just knew his name, and that he was really fun and made me smile!
The women peeked through the blinds when he drove in the parking lot; now that I’m older I see how exciting that must have been for all of them. For the record, he drove a blue metallic convertible sports car and you should have seen the office ladies faces when they saw his smile, dark curls and sunglasses. “Bye girls!”
At lunch we discovered we both were left handed. That’s a great coincidence! We talked about our birthdays, I had just turned 21…we found we had the same birthday! After more talk we also discovered our favorite piece of chicken was the wing, which “back in the day” restaurants didn’t have on the menu. When he dropped me back off to work, I was in a wonderful daze the rest of the afternoon and not much was accomplished.
That night “he” asked me to go dancing…what a thrill! When he would arrive at my apartment he would have a clean shirt in his hand and ask to use my iron. My iron! I thought to myself? “Sure! Come on in” I couldn’t believe he would show up to the door and want to use my iron?
We’d go out, dance, laugh and get to know each other a little more each evening and when he would bring me home and walk me to the door he’d ask, “May I sleep on your chair?” “No!” I replied to him laughing a little as he walked away. Sheesh, I thought to myself, he wants to sleep on my couch…yea right!
Each night of the week patterned the same, shirt in hand to iron, great date with lots of fun and at the end of our time together he would ask to sleep on the couch, then the chair and everywhere but the bedroom! Each night when I refused, he happily kissed me good night and walked to his car. I had several conversations with my roommate about the oddity of the iron and how forward he was asking to sleep in our apartment the first week we met! And then, it was Friday.
Friday was very much like each night we went out. He asked for the iron at the beginning of the evening and pressed his dress shirt to take me out. We now had danced for five evenings straight and were up for even more. But this evening when he dropped me off he did not ask the “sleep over” question, but told me that he would be going to Cleveland and would call me when he returned.
This was great news to my tired dancing feet as Cleveland was 4 ½ hours from Grand Rapids! I slept for most of the day and accomplished some chores around the apartment. I was dumping trash in the parking lot when his metallic blue convertible zipped into the parking lot! It was “him!” Had he had driven to Cleveland and back so fast? There he was sitting in the driveway at 5:30pm with a TV bungee strapped to the back of the car! What was this all about?
I was twenty-one then, and didn’t really understand everything that was taking place through this initial week. I only found out later that the evening I met my husband to be, he was at Paulo’s to say good-bye to all his friends. Rich had quit his job of 10 years to take a new one in Cleveland and be closer to his girlfriend, anxious to have him move closer. He had sold his house and had one rented in Cleveland. He had moved his TV and furniture there. All those evenings that began with him at my door, wrinkled shirt in hand, and ended with him requesting to sleep over at the end of the date…he was living in that blue metallic convertible sports car – right there in my parking lot!
We married two years from that first date. It was “him and still is.” All along this was the man of my dreams and will celebrate our 31st wedding anniversary in August. This is our true-life love story!
by Erin Albanese, School News Network
Hasani Hayden is a firm believer in dreaming big.
So it’s fitting that the Kelloggsville High School senior is one of 100 high-school students selected nationwide to attend the 2015 Disney Dreamers Academy at Walt Disney World Resort March 5-8.
Hasani will join other aspiring students at the conference, offered in partnership with comic Steve Harvey and Essence Magazine. The weekend includes educational sessions, guest speakers, and hands-on learning opportunities, with the focus on teaching high school students how to dream big and discover possibilities.
Hasani said he looks forward to getting involved with students from across the country to learn more about effective dreaming and achieving these dreams.
“I want to be able to accomplish anything I set my mind to and I hope the Disney Dreamer Academy can help with that,” he said.
He also has a personal reason for wanting to go to the “Most Magical Place on Earth.”
“My mother has always wanted to take me to Disney World. The opportunity never presented itself until now,” he said. “I can now take her expense free.”
On his application essay, Hasani described how he hopes to become an entrepreneur by starting his own consulting firm or private bank. He also wants to start a mentoring program for underprivileged youth in the Grand Rapids area.
Hasani was recently accepted into Harvard University, and is in the process of choosing between Harvard or Morehouse College, where he has been offered full-ride scholarship. He is also a finalist for Morehouse College’s Stamps Leadership Scholarship. He plans to study a combination of finance, economics, political science or education.
Hasani is extremely involved at Kelloggsville High School and in the Wyoming community.
He is vice president of the National Honor Society, vice president of the Kent Career Technical Center National Technical Honor Society and is a member of the Principal Leadership Team at KCTC. He is president of the City of Wyoming Teen Council, a model and contributor for the peer-to-peer education program Pure Passion for Fashion, a mentor for D.A. Blodgett’s Big Brother Big Sister program and Hasani is vice president of the National Honor Society. He also serves as president of the Kent Career Technical Center National Technical Honor Society and is a member of the Principal Leadership Team at KCTC. He is president of the City of Wyoming Teen Council, a model and contributor for the peer-to-peer education program Pure Passion for Fashion, a mentor for D.A. Blodgett’s Big Brother Big Sister program and Co-Program Director of the Youth Leadership Academy at Gerald R. Ford Academic Center. Hasani also executive produced the fundraiser “Hasani Helping Haiti” and last summer attended American Legion Boys Nation.
by Deb Havens
Last week 27 people from the Kent County area bundled up on one of the coldest nights of the year to check under bridges, overpasses, and parks. They were looking for their fellow citizens, people technically classified as “homeless.” Jim Talen, coordinator for Kent County’s 2015 Point in Time Count of homeless residents, says total numbers of homeless in Kent County are expected to range somewhere between 650 to 800. “Last year we counted a little over 790 and we expect to be close to that this year,” says Talen. Numbers are not broken out by community.
Rebecca Rynbrandt, Director of Planning and Community Development for the City of Wyoming, says that communities in Kent County work together to care for the homeless, so services are centralized. “We want everyone to know that calling 2-1-1 is the way to access services for people who fear they will become homeless or those who already are.” The City of Wyoming publishes a pamphlet on homeless issues available at this link: Community_Outreach_Trifold.pdf
by Deb Havens
The 17-year-old Wyoming High School girl seriously injured when struck by a Chevrolet Impala is recovering and even tries to joke a bit, says Principal Nate Robrahn, who visited her recently. “She comes from an incredible family, she’s a strong young lady,” he added. The student’s name will not be released.
Robrahn noted that when he visited the hospital, the WHS student was sitting up in a wheel chair despite suffering several broken bones. “But,” says Robrahn, “I don’t expect her back at school right away.” Arrangements will be made with her family to ensure she doesn’t fall too far behind in her school work during her recovery. Efforts to support her, like the principal’s visit, are just part of Wyoming High School’s commitment to each student’s success, or as Robrahn puts it, “She’s part of the Wolf family!”
Love stories come in all different forms. They can be romantic, funny, spontaneous, and a little bit quirky!
As Valentine’s Day approaches, WKTV is looking for love stories of all kinds from our readers in Wyoming and Kentwood. Do you have a great Valentine’s Day story to share? We would love to hear it!
The 4 top stories will receive a $25 dollar gift card from Eastern Floral!
We are looking for any story with you and your loved one to celebrate on February 14, something memorable. Were you married on Valentine’s Day? Were you proposed to in a unique setting? Did your car break down on the way to pick up your date? Did you forget it was Valentine’s Day and have to scramble last minute to throw something together?
Every love story is special and WKTV wants to hear the all, so don’t hold back!
Want to share your story with WKTV? Email mike.dewitt@wktv.org or mail a letter to 5261 Clyde Park Avenue Southwest, Wyoming, MI 49509. Deadline for getting your story into WKTV is Monday, February 9.
YOU and other WKTV readers will vote on the best stories.
We look forward to hearing your love stories! All you need (to enter) is LOVE!
by Thomas Hegewald
WKTV is pleased to announce the newest program to the station’s line-up, “The Quilt Show” premieres tonight, January 20, at 6:30pm. Tutorials for the program were recorded in 2014 at the Quilts on the Grand Show. When last we left the intrepid WKTV crew on location at the DeltaPlex, they were videotaping demonstrations for “The Quilt Show.” Routines had settled down a bit, everyone was working together beautifully, inevitably this was the perfect time for the equipment to go haywire. So now the scene is set for the second day of taping on location, as told by producer Thomas Hegewald. Enjoy.
Making of “The Quilt Show,” Part 2
The second day of recording we were more relaxed. Since the site was secured over night, we had left everything but the cameras in place. However, something unexpected happened that second day just as we powered up to get everything ready. Communication from the truck to the cameras didn’t work. In short, the camera operators couldn’t hear me direct them as to which shots to focus on or when their shots were were “on”, or being recorded.
Added to that, the main, centrally located camera on the talent, or demonstrator, lost power shortly before we started recording. This was also the one back-up camera we were using to record the entire show in case something went wrong with the other cameras. This left us with only three cameras – one shooting an overview of the table and one camera on each side of the table for cross shooting projects and products on the table.
Because of the 40” monitors on the sides of the table, the camera operators could see which camera I was currently using for the program and knew when to hold their shot. In today’s tech savvy world, my audio operator sent texts to one of the camera operators, who happened to be her husband, relaying my directions to him for when and how to change shots. Midway through that first show, the fourth camera came back on-line, but we never did get the communications systems to work again.
We recorded six shows the first day and three the second. In between shows we transferred the footage to an external hard drive that the Guild had purchased. Once all of the shows were done, we spent over an hour packing everything up and loading it back into the truck.
I began the process of editing the next day. While we had provided a Q&A portion at the end of each show, I decided to cut it out. We couldn’t get a microphone to participants quickly enough to hear the question and the audience wasn’t lit for recording, both of which created moments of silence for the demonstrator while listening. We could put two short shows together to broadcast in a half hour time slot for television broadcast. The shows would also be an easier to transfer to the internet if they were shorter.
I finished editing the shows mid-December and met with some of the West Michigan Quilters’ Guild members to review them. For the next two weeks I made a few changes based on the feedback and exported them in formats compatible for broadcast and internet posting.
We all learned a lot going through this process. It was bigger and broader than some expected and full of details and technical issues that weren’t always predictable.
We’re already discussing how we would do it differently for the next show in 2016, including rehearsals for the demonstrators and crew. Using equipment from WKTV allowed us to try it out, make the mistakes and learn from them. In this way we produced something bigger than we could have done on our own, for very little cost, while at the same time we produced something worthwhile for the Guild and the community.
Editor’s note: If you would more information about training at WKTV so that you can produce your own shows, please call 616-261-5700. You also can produce a show for yourself and the community!
The world’s longest running play, Agatha Christie’s “The Mousetrap,” is now showing on Grand Rapids Civic Theater’s stage. This same play has been running continuously in London’s West End for sixty-three years. Christie adapted the play from a radio show called “Three Blind Mice.”
The curtains open to a very impressive set. Two open arches, two arched doorways, thick wooden trim, period furniture and snow falling outside the window take the audience to an English inn so many decades ago. All of these details bring the viewers into the scene and make the characters even more believable.
A radio broadcast sets the stage with a startling bit of information that a murderer is close by. A pledge is exacted from the audience to keep the ending a secret, then the play jumps right into the first murder scene. The audience is left with an eerie whistling of “Three Blind Mice” and the guessing begins.
We are introduced to each of the inn’s guests one at a time. Wren, an odd, child-like architect, is the first guest to arrive. He brings comic relief to every scene, but also great suspicion because of his attachment to nursery rhymes, like “Three Blind Mice.”
Mrs. Boyle and Major Metcalf are next to arrive, followed by Miss Casewell and then Mr. Paravicini. Some of the guests have reservations and a few do not. As each guest arrives, many suspicious hints are given. And each is dressed exactly as the murderer is described on the radio report. No one is quite who they appear to be. Everyone has secrets.
Like other Christie tales, everyone is trapped in the same house with no way to call for help. Yet it’s frighteningly clear the murderer is among them. And then what happens…?
Come enjoy the suspense that has made “The Mousetrap” London’s longest running play. The play runs January 16 – February 1. Show times are Wednesday through Saturday at 7:30 PM; Sundays matinee at 2 PM.
by Deb Havens
Most of us respond to stories about our government with a cynical eye roll. We don’t expect much from our leadership these days outside of gridlock and frustration. Barbara Van Duren, 58, Wyoming Deputy City Manager for the last 14 years and 7 months, makes you feel differently. Ironically, this story is about her retirement from government service, recently celebrated at the Wyoming Public Library to make room for the crowd of family, friends, and fellow employees who attended.
Barbara is leaving to spend time with her husband, John Crofoot, 8 years older than she, who called in a promise she made several years ago. “I told him I would retire when I turned 55, but I stretched that to age 58,” she admitted. She was having too good a time on the job to leave.
One project close to her heart is 28 West, the re-development of 28th street to compete with shopping opportunities at Woodland and Rivertown malls. “28th street needs a facelift,” she said. For the last 4 years, Barbara has worked on an upgrade to the Wyoming Village Mall at 28th and Michael, slated for a grand re-opening Christmas 2015. The addition of Crescent Street will add a more shopper-friendly environment with easy parking and walkable access to shopping and dining on both sides of the tree-lined street, a prospect Barbara finds, “very exciting!”
Barbara agrees her enthusiasm for government service may be quite different from the average citizen’s. “When people hear about government, it’s generally the state or federal government. They rarely hear about local, but that’s where we put boots on the ground – we get the snow plowed, we work closely with the public so our community remains vibrant.”
Local government also faces dramatic challenges more threatening to the future than a heavy snowfall. Such was the case after the GM plant closed. Rather than being paralyzed by the prospect of job loss, a situation that affected much of the east side of the state, the Wyoming team swung into action immediately. “We took control of the property right away. We were the first to have the plant demolished and ready for someone new to come in. It’s ready now for redevelopment. ” Even a challenge this size did not diminish Barbara’s enthusiasm. “I loved my work. It was always diverse with something new to do.”
In fact, Barbara’s job has been such a fulfilling experience she feels a certain anxiety leaving it. “What I’ll miss most will be the people who work here. It sounds like a cliché but it’s true – they’re like family to me.” Based on the retirement ceremony her colleagues planned for her, they feel the same way.
Attended by community leaders including Mayor Jack Poll, police and fire officials, as well as people who worked every day with her, Barbara was celebrated with speeches, a retirement clock, and a special surprise: The U.S. flag and the Wyoming flag that had flown over the city that day were passed around the room so all attendees could put their hands and their hearts into the memories they shared with Barbara of serving the city together. “I had tears in my eyes,” she said, “and I still can’t sleep at night thinking of the wonderful things they said about me.”
Barbara will have plenty to think about in the future. She and her husband plan to vacation in the west for 2 weeks, then travel to Alaska later this year. “We want to go while we’re still healthy and able to enjoy time with each other,” she said. The City of Wyoming is equally healthy, and for that, Barbara has earned our thanks as well as a rewarding retirement.
For almost 40 years Marge’s Donut Den has been a popular fixture in West Michigan. Donuts, cookies, cakes, and community involvement at its finest can always be found upon opening the doors. This week, Marge received a stop work notice for her plans on expansion by a Wyoming building inspector. She was going to take over two empty businesses which have been vacant for years right next door. Now, plans are on hold.
75-year-old Marge Wilson said she is very discouraged and disappointed about the delay stating that there is so much bureaucracy and she can’t seem to get anything done. She thought the addition would be done by Christmas.
“I am older and don’t understand anything about all the codes involved, she said. “It just seems like this will hurt the city more than me. I had many community events scheduled that require larger spaces.”
Rebeccan Rynbrandt, Wyoming’s Director of Community Services, said that the city cannot waive any of the state laws, or building codes.
“We have a critical need for public safety on building codes on every single project,” she explained.
Fire systems and traffic management issues have to be addressed as well.
For now, plans have halted on the expansion but Marge’s Donut Den is still open for business as usual. 
Most parents set out to instill good traits into their kids, Michigan natives Greg and Lisa Flower are no different. Their two daughters – Dallie and Bailey – have benefited immeasurably from the work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit instilled into them by their parents. When combined with the passion for animals and agriculture the family shares, these are the traits that have helped to shape their lives.
It’s certainly no coincidence that the girls share their parents’ interest in farming. Greg and Lisa made the choice to raise them in a way that would encourage it. After all, agriculture had been a part of their lives from the very beginning. Having met when they were just kids themselves, both members of 4-H, by the time they were in their early twenties they were husband and wife, living out in the country and spending most of their Friday nights attending local team penning events.
Back then, Greg was just in the beginning of his career as an Eaton County Sherriff’s Deputy and Lisa was a nurse. Were they happy? Happy – yes, but driven for more. The couple’s Friday night routine eventually got them thinking about how they wanted to raise their kids. The resulting idea would not only provide a solid foundation for their children’s upbringing, but also give them that something extra they’d been craving in their lives.
They began slowly expanding their place; buying the land around them from their neighbors as soon as it became available. In time, they turned their 40 acres into 240 and have made good use of the space.
It’s the home to Slippery F Arena; an indoor and outdoor venue where the family holds team penning events. It’s most definitely a family affair, daughters Dallie and Bailey are the co-owner operators of the arena with their parents.
Much of the their sprawl is devoted to the 400 head of cattle that call it home during the summer, then down to about 100 in the winter. The property’s former set up as a dairy farm works well for the family’s needs. Greg’s been able to utilize different sectioned off areas to receive new cattle, administer vaccines and ensure that they’re eating well before being turned out to pasture.
Another section of the old farm provides shelter to the horses. These five high caliber animals are shared among Lisa, Dallie and Bailey. They’re used to compete not only in events hosted at Slippery F, but also at other locations, when the girls pack them up and head to the next event. Recently, Bailey and Lisa went to Texas, taking three horses for team penning, while Dallie traveled to Ohio for a sorting event.
The girls run 10-11 shows each year, hosting riders indoors or out, depending on the season. They say most of the riders who attend are local, but they do get the occasional visitor from places like New York and Texas; mostly those are riders who stop in on their way through, as they travel the circuit. So far the girls have been able to use the money they’ve earned to help pay for their college educations. Dallie says she would like to continue exactly what she’s doing. She teases that her boyfriend – whose Ag interests are geared more towards crops – needs to learn to do what her dad does because while she can run the arena, she can’t handle the cattle too.
The girls didn’t get all their entrepreneurial spirit from their dad – Mom Lisa has turned her passion into a thriving organization as well. As a nurse, she was happy with her career, but found she had a special affinity for working with the elderly. It was during negotiations for the purchase of the property across the road from the Flowers’ home that Lisa decided to open an assisted living facility, providing twenty-four hour care for the elderly. The couple from whom Greg and Lisa bought the property were the first residents in Lisa’s new care center. What started as a single wide trailer was built into a custom home, aptly called the Flower House. The family affair extends to Lisa’s business as well; oldest daughter Bailey is one of the caregivers for the home’s fifteen residents.
In the family’s quest to raise healthy animals, Greg says having Michigan Veterinary Supply, a division of ANIMART, Inc. right in his backyard has been a huge help. The family agrees that the customer service is excellent, it’s easy and convenient and they appreciate that the drivers are knowledgeable. The fact that Greg and MVS Warehouse Manager, Dave Nickel, grew up together in Vermontville makes it an even easier pairing. When it comes to getting what he needs, Greg says “I don’t need any other source, I’ve got Dave.”
So what’s next? Greg says one thing he’s certain of is that in three years he’ll be hanging up his badge. He’s seen a lot of interesting things in the 22 years he’s already put in to the Sherriff’s department (most he’d rather not comment on). Once retired, he hopes to continue to foster Dallie and Bailey’s passion for agriculture, as well as his own. Currently he’s giving thought to expanding his custom backgrounding operation or says maybe something completely new will catch his attention. Whatever steps he takes, his family will no doubt be right alongside, sharing the passion that he’s worked so hard to inspire.
To hear the girls tell it, they can’t imagine life any other way.
Freshman year is the year of ultimate change. The thing about change is that you can either let it break you, or you can let it make you. As he entered freshman year he wasn’t aware of the huge changes that were going to occur in his life. Most times we are never aware of these things, we simply have to go with the flow of life.
He wasn’t the type of adolescent that complained, he rarely even talked. His motto was “If it’s not worth wasting my breath for, then why say it?” At age 14 his life would become a roller-coaster that no one could predict.
After making the move into his fathers house in a “white picket fence suburb” he felt unstoppable. He had a big house, lots of new clothes, a new dog, and most importantly he was actually “cool!” Nothing could stop him on his way to the top.
The months rolled by with not a care in the world, until the news came. His father’s partner in their company had been embezzling money for years, and it had finally caught up to him–this meaning, their family would have to move. Being the role model older brother he didn’t have a choice but to accept the fate, and to keep going. He had to set an example for his younger siblings, they were bound to react the way he did. As much as it hurt that he was leaving this new life behind, he forced a smile upon his grief stricken face and pushed forwards.
As they moved into their new home things seemed as if they were getting better. He was still excelling in school, his friends hadn’t left his side and he still had his family to fall back on. Everything looked OK on the outside, but on the inside rage was boiling.
This rage continued to grow when more horrendous news was delivered. Their uncle that had been living with them for some time had been shot and killed. A devastation that would affect a family forever. The young boy was filled with remorse and sorrow, how could someone he looked up to so much be here one second and gone the next? The family had decided once again that they were going to move.
Not only is moving a hard thing to do, but during the most important part of your life, is something no child should have to go through. Through the next 5 years of his life, the boy would move 6 times altogether, never once complaining or arguing about it, but maintaining an ever present smile.
That is why my brother “Buddha” is my hero. He taught me that life can either be great or it can be terrible; depending on your own attitude about situations – Things can only affect you if you let them affect you. I wouldn’t be the person I am today without my big brother by my side, pushing me to be a better person everyday of my life.
A weekend filled with the thwack of shoulder pads and the smack of helmets culminated towards this, the end. The time when one team would rise from the gridiron as champions while the other stayed on the floor with the taste of defeat still fresh in their mouths.
The Grand City All-Stars rose to the challenge.
On this day, 35 young men from Grand Rapids stood united at the Battle of Spartan Nation. 35 young men who worked hard throughout the Rocket Football season and chose to come back for more. 35 young men who wanted to play more football and ended up playing their way into the National Tournament.
The Grand City All-Stars came together under the direction of Head Coach Uriel Tyler. It was an idea that’s been kicked around in his head for over 2 years.
“The season is so short for these guys with only 6 weeks of games. Practice starts just a couple weeks before games begin,” states Coach Tyler, “With these boys playing a High School season next year, I wanted to give them an opportunity to play a longer season. One that started after Rocket Football ended.”
The Grand City All-Stars play in the 14u bracket of the Football Championship Series, a club league that extends beyond the normal season for youth players. They only planned on playing in one tournament – The Battle of Spartan Nation – but after winning the championship, the Grand City All-Stars qualified for the national tournament on December 27-30 in Dallas, Texas!
“This is a special group of kids. They play so hard! We didn’t give up one point the entire tournament,” describes Coach Tyler with emotion swelling in his voice, “That shows how hard these kids play. They don’t give up!”
While winning is nice, the team has been a great way to bring kids together within the City League.
There is a lot of animosity between players and parents of different city league teams. When those teams play each other during the season, emotions run high. Players can build up ill-will towards players of other teams who will end up being their teammates at the high school level. Those issues have dissolved by playing together with the Grand City All-Stars.
“I coached at a High School where guys came together from different city league teams and still had hatred because of the city youth league,” explained Coach Tyler, “This All-Star team has been a great way for these kids to get to know each other and build friendships.”
Coach Tyler isn’t alone, offensive line coach Anthony McNeal also mentioned the positives the team has had off the gridiron, “These boys are spending time together, hanging out and posting pictures on Facebook with each other. They’re from all different backgrounds and coming together playing football and fundraising. It’s a great story!”
In order to play in the National Tournament, the team needs to raise $20,000 by December 21. They’ve been selling cookies and popcorn, running pop can drives, and holding bowling and skating parties to raise the money! Right now they’re halfway there.
They have a bowling party this Saturday and would love for you to stop by! Bowling is at East Brook Lanes from 7-9pm and the cost is only $12 for unlimited bowling! The proceeds go towards the Grand City All-Stars trip to Dallas.
There are many ways to donate to the Grand City All-Stars. You can donate online at www.grandcitysports.com (just click the donate button!) or by going to their Facebook page, just type in “Grand City All-Stars” into the Facebook search bar.
If going on-line doesn’t work for you, send donations to P.O Box 68316 Grand Rapids, MI 49516.
Going to Dallas would be a dream come true for the players and their coaches. The Grand City All-Stars have yet to give give up a point, let’s see that streak continue down in Texas!
For the first time in a decade, the East Kentwood High School football program ignited fans and made the community stand up and take notice. The Falcon squad went 8-1 in the regular season, losing only to West Ottawa. After grabbing a share of the OK Red Conference title, EK then sailed through 3 playoff games only to be stopped short of a trip to Ford Field by Clarkston in the state semifinals.
What was the key factor in the Falcon winning season? Although he would wave it off, new head coach Tony Kimbrough was the right man, at the right time, for Kentwood.
Growing up in Detroit, Kimbrough was an outstanding athlete in football, basketball, and baseball. He first attended Winston-Salem State University before making the decision to join the Marines. Once back in Michigan, Kimbrough returned to the gridiron at Grand Rapids Junior College. After a quick stint with GRJC, Kimbrough went to Western Michigan University where he led the Broncos to the 1988 MAC Championship while being named the Mid-American Conference Most Valuable Player.
His professional playing career included time in the Canadian Football League as well as the Arena Football league. Kimbrough worked as the offensive coordinator for the Utah Blaze in 2008. He has also had stops as the offensive line/quarterbacks coach at both Western Michigan and Grand Rapids Community College. Even with his accomplishments, Kimbrough remains humble and seems to brag about everyone else’s accomplishments by his own.
Kimbrough, who works as a behavioral specialist for East Kentwood High School, has a long association with the Falcons as an assistant coach. He actually interviewed to be the head coach of East Kentwood in 2007. John Keenoy, East Kentwood principal and a huge supporter of Kimbrough, convinced him he was ready. “When I didn’t get it I was really, truly disappointed,” said Kimbrough.
Still, Kimbrough remained tight with the Falcons. Although skilled as an offensive line and quarterbacks coach, Kimbrough wanted a challenge and served as the defensive coordinator for EK in 2013.
The call to lead the East Kentwood football team came in May 2014 as the Falcons had gone through 3 head coaches in as many seasons. What the Falcons needed more than anything was stability in its coaching staff and commitment from its players. Tony Kimbrough was their man. “All these kids wanted was someone who cared,” said Kimbrough. Although the coaching staff was a revolving door, many of the players had been playing together for years; first in Rocket football, then through the 56er and 78er programs.
Kimbrough knew the players, had experience coaching both sides of the ball, and brought the confidence the team required.
From the start, Kimbrough challenged the seniors on the team. “This is not my team,” he told them, “This is your team. I am just the conductor.” Senior player such as Kyle Friberg, Adam Racette, Michael Ivy, and John Keenoy, Jr. eagerly responded to the call.
“The summer was key.” emphasized Kimbrough. Not only did the players have to agree to 100% commitment to the program, they would be responsible for an attitude adjustment that would be the basis for their confidence later in the season. They had to commit to pooling their individual talents and learn the concept of family.
“FAMILY is an acronym,” explained Kimbrough, “It stands for Forget About Me I Love You.” This discipline came naturally to Kimbrough, both through military and gridiron training, who had learned that you need to depend on and love the man on your left and the man on your right.
In addition to the grueling summertime on-field practices, the two-a-days, and the weight room regimen, Kimbrough had a marine run several boot camp-type conditioning programs with the team. The concepts of brotherhood, interdependence, and trust became core values for the team, bonding the young men together. Their physical and mental toughness would serve them well during the season.
Although the East Kentwood Falcons were a game short of reaching their Ford Field appearance, the future remains bright for the team. Tony Kimbrough seems to have brought all the right ingredients for a long-term successful career in Kentwood. He brings his life experience, discipline, and excellent coaching skills on both sides of the ball. Kimbrough wants a stable program, from the Rocket players through the Seniors. He is proud that his players are already talking about next year. He laughs as he explains, “Jamari Booker (Junior) is so excited, he is already pulling guys in to the weight room.”
Perhaps the greatest values Kimbrough brings are confidence and humility, “It’s about the kids. It’s not about me.”
When asked about being named the MLive Grand Rapids Press Coach of the Year Kimbrough shakes his head, stating, “I only wish it was engraved ‘Coaches of the Year’,” giving credit to the many assistant coaches who work alongside him.
The future looks bright indeed for the East Kentwood Falcons. When asked if it going to be hard losing more than 25 seniors, Kimbrough thinks a moment, then smiles broadly, using the old cliché, “We don’t need to rebuild…we just need to reload!”
Look out OK Red, this coach is here to stay.
This series of stories were written by high school students from Joe Pellerito’s Advanced Teen Leadership Class at East Kentwood High School. They wrote about the heroes in their lives. Stories were written especially for now.wktv.com. Look for their stories in the weeks to come!
Everybody has heard of the drunk driving stories, but this one really hits home for me. I asked my grandma a memory that explains who you are and this is what she said:
“One memory that explains who I am is my back injury. I was in the front seat of my friend’s car. This is back when seat-belts weren’t required. We were coming home from our other friend’s house and we got hit by a drunk driver. I flew through the windshield and hit a telephone pole. I woke up in the hospital not knowing anything besides my life is going to change. I was in the hospital for 3 months. I ended up breaking my back which resulted in a back brace for two and a half years. I also had the most severe concussion and am lucky to have not been cognitively impaired. I thank God everyday.”
She is one of the strongest people I know. Her life has been a constant battle. From being a child of an abusive parent, to the back injury, to going through a tough marriage and divorce, she wears the sweetest smile every single day.
My grandma is 83 years old and still walking, still active, I look up to her so much. I asked her what she is most grateful for and she responded, “I’m grateful for my life. I never understood how precious life is until I almost lost it. But I am MOST grateful for my grandchildren. They bring me so much joy and I love watching them grow up and I’m blessed to be here and see all of their accomplishments.”
That explains my grandma so perfectly. She has the biggest heart and she is my #1 fan for everything. After all of my golf tournaments she makes sure to call to tell me she was praying for me, and that she is proud of me no matter how I place.
I wanted to interview my grandma because I aspire to be like her. I could recap endless stories and memories about her. I hope to make an impact on other people like she did for me.
This series of stories were written by high school students from Joe Pellerito’s Advanced Teen Leadership Class at East Kentwood High School. They wrote about the heroes in their lives. Stories were written especially for now.wktv.com. Look for their stories in the weeks to come!
“Hard times don’t create heroes. It is during the hard times when the ‘hero’ within us is revealed.” This quote by Bob Riley means that your inner hero is not based on the situations themselves but about the qualities that are presented when in these situations, leadership is a prime quality that is revealed. My mom is the main person I know that portrays leadership in her everyday life.
Examples of how my mom portrays the quality of being a hero varies from day to day. Having to be the mother of four kids is a big way of showing leadership. My mom has to run us to appointments and pay bills. When I tore my ACL, I thought my life was over and thought I could never play soccer again. My mom, on the other hand, took things in a whole different direction. instead of looking at the negatives and thinking about how I wasn’t going to get scholarships for college and all, she had the mentality of a leader and said that everything was going to be okay.
My mom took control of the situation and made into an adventure. From the painful leg exercises I had to do to the dreadful showers I had to take, my mom was right there cheering me and supporting me. She made me do each set of exercises no matter how tired I was. During this whole ordeal I saw leadership skills come out in my mom.
My mom is a leader because she takes control of situations and calms them down. She knows what the best thing to do in each situation she comes across. Many people get put in scenarios that they don’t want to be in and end up blocking it out or trying to run from it, but not my mom.
I look up to her and one day I hope to possess the leadership qualities she has. It has made her a very independent and mindful women. Not many people want or can show these qualities but my mom embraces it, needless to say, that is why I picked my mom as the one person in my life that is a true leader and will always be a leader.
This series of stories were written by high school students from Joe Pellerito’s Advanced Teen Leadership Class at East Kentwood High School. They wrote about the heroes in their lives. Stories were written especially for now.wktv.com. Look for their stories in the weeks to come!
About 15 years ago she found herself in a successful career, and within a beautiful family, but yet still something was missing. “I spent many years not feeling so positive… My idea of success was being the best student.” In the end she realized that everything she had accomplished was in an effort to prove to the world she was worth it and could accomplish her goals. Her name is Marie Edlund, my grandmother.
She is my hero not because she has saved the world but because she has impacted my world for the better and has certainly seemed to find the secret to a life of bliss. I admire her for her optimism and ability to cherish every moment, no matter the circumstance. But behind every life is a story and series of accommodated lessons.
“I realized that I was surrounded by happiness but I wasn’t connecting to it,” she says, describing herself over a decade ago. After this realization she decided to redefine her life. Her definition of success had changed from a superior level in everything she did to an ability to “respect and appreciate” herself.
“Success is being able to be present in the moment,” she says. She later describes that every moment is special and has a purpose whether you’re getting dressed or on the way to work. She stopped keeping her head and goals in the future with ego driven ideals and declared this moment, every moment, a success. “This is success, a connection of our mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical bodies.”
“I believe empathy is the most essential quality of civilization,” a quote from Roger Ebert, a well respected film critic. When I asked my grandmother what it took to be a leader she had a similar answer, “A leader needs to be able to observe and feel what others are feeling.” Empathy.
When asked, she considers herself a leader. In her career she was because she was willing, and has the ability, to be organized, recognize the mission, work with the group, and accomplish the task(s) at hand. Considering her work in the district of Grand Rapids Public Schools, and other districts across the state as well, this is an important task. Being able to coordinate so many educators definitely requires a leader, a respected one at that. When people she has worked with speak of her they admire her ability to listen and include every voice in a decision.
Throughout her education and career she has met and worked with many leaders. One she looks back on with great admiration is a civics teacher she had in 9th grade, Patrick Reagan. As a leader of the class he seemed to understand the strengths and weaknesses of each student. He offered a variety of ways for each student to excel and prove their knowledge in the class. “I outdid myself [in class] because he was so inspiring.” She continued to work with him throughout high school and he became more than just a teacher. He became a friend that she felt encouraged and respected by.
When I think of my grandmother, or “Grammy”, I think of my future self and who I want to be. My main goal in life is to live joyfully. This includes my career, family, spirit, relationships, and all forms of health. This is my definition of success. I have been inspired by so many people. But my grandmother, I think she’s really got it figured out. Therefore she has been one of my greatest inspirations in the mastery of the perfect attitude for a successful life.
This series of stories were written by high school students from Joe Pellerito’s Advanced Teen Leadership Class at East Kentwood High School. They wrote about the heroes in their lives. Stories were written especially for now.wktv.com. Look for their stories in the weeks to come!
A hero is somebody who is selfless, who is generous in spirit, who just tries to give back as much as possible and help people. A hero to me is someone who saves people and who really deeply cares. (-Debi Mazar)
This quote reminds me of my dad, he is all of that. He demonstrates generosity and gives to others as much as he can. He also demonstrates friendship, hard work, and love. Those are three important traits for a leader to have.
My dad, Benjamin Escalante, is a detective sergeant for the state police. That’s where I see a lot of his hard work come from. He gives his all in everything he does for his job. He even brings work home.
I asked him if he considers himself successful and he said, “Yes, because I enjoy what I do for a living, and that’s success because you spend most of your life doing that. If you can find enjoyment in what you do for a living then thats success.” Then I asked him how he finds himself successful other than his job, “Being happy with my personal life and family. That’s a success as well.” Society is led to believe that being successful means having a lot of money. I don’t find that to be true. Success simply means being happy with what you do and who you are.
I am very thankful to be able to have a friendship with my dad. He is always there for me no matter what. I can talk to him pretty much about anything, he always listens. Love is something my dad shows everyday, not just with me, but with other family members, friends, and with what he does.
While interviewing my dad, I found something very interesting: he doesn’t consider himself a hero. When I asked him why he thinks he is the person he is today, he told me, “I always try to do what is right and I never went away from that.” We definitely need more people like that in this world.
Everyone starts somewhere, I was interested in hearing about that. “Who influenced you the most in life?” I asked him. He replied, “Not one person in particular. From my family members, teacher, siblings, parents, coworkers, classmates and friends. They all influenced me in some way, not just one person.”
I also asked him if there was a specific event that made him the person he is today. He told me, “No, many things happened to make me the person I am today. I always concern myself with things I can control and don’t concern with things I can’t control.” He then mentioned that if he knew something was out of his hands, he couldn’t do anything about it. This is a very important point. No one can handle everything that is thrown at them.
Even the strongest people have to say no sometimes or take things slow. Now let’s not get it twisted, no one is perfect and everyone has something they can do better at in life. I asked my dad how he thinks he can grow as a person and he said, “Become a better listener, more open minded, and more accepting of others.” I love that someone I call a hero still has things they think they can grow at, because it shows a lot. Before this experience, I did not know my dad thought that way, and he did not know he is my hero. We both learned something new.
This post is publishing much later than I had planned. But as planning goes, you can always count on it changing. And often the change in plans is not what you necessary would have wanted. Case in point: me.
I found out in mid- July that I have breast cancer. It was an Oh-no-this-can’t-be-possible-moment: ‘Not fair! My husband died from cancer; my sons already went through this hell! I’m in a new relationship! I’ve got plans! I’m going on vacation! Noooooo!’
It’s true what you hear people say about the moment they learn they have cancer. Your mind freezes. Your body goes numb. The intensity of the words shock your entire being. And then you ask quietly to yourself, “Why me?”
After a moment of silence I answered, “Why not?”
At my age I’ve learned one thing for sure: Life does not go according to plan and life is not always fair.
On how to deal with these ‘Givens of Life’ and others, I recommend reading David Richo’s “The Five Things We Cannot Change…and the Happiness We Find by Embracing Them.”
Since mid-July more than ever in my lifetime, I’ve discovered there is happiness and blessings to be found when the routine world takes a nose dive. You and I just have to be open to receiving these gifts. What may stop us, and has stopped me many times before, is fear and panic and the sense of losing control of daily living. It can be crippling, unproductive, and well, unhealthy!
Remember the saying Let go and let God? Taking on unwanted challenges is a lot like that: freefalling on faith. It may not be easy at first because we are so hard wired to react with panic and fear when our plans get tossed. We are, after all, control freaks and when stuff like this happens it’s a slap in the face.
When it does don’t forget to breathe. Next take as much time as necessary to process the new challenge. Then prepare a willing heart and mind. For me, focusing on accepting the grace of God was just the attitude adjustment I needed.
In October, I was returning a book I borrowed from the Lemen-Holton Resource Center when the receptionist asked me if I had breast cancer. I answered correctly because she said, “Wait right here I have something for you!”
The puzzled look on my face prompted her to continue, “It’s a gift from Amber and her sister. They did this for all women affected by breast cancer.”
“Who’s Amber?” I asked.
“A former patient of ours,” she replied as she poked around behind a partition looking for my special gift. I wondered ‘What could it be? A hat most likely…’
As if the receptionist, Nina, was reading my mind, she suddenly appeared from around the partition with a huge plastic bag. Whatever was inside, was bigger than a hat!
“What is this?” I gasped.
“I told you – a special gift from Amber and her sister. Wait to get home to open it,” she advised. “There’s a lot in there and you’ll be amazed!”
I was stunned. When I urged Nina to give me Amber’s contact information so I could thank her, Nina paused and her face softened. “She died last month. This was a project she started to support other women going through breast cancer. Just consider yourself blessed!”
I got goosebumps but not because it was scary or creepy but because I felt like I was being given a huge heavenly hug from Amber herself.
Nina and I hugged and cried. She told me Amber’s organization is called Crowns of Blessings and they have a Facebook page. I would definitely friend them, message them, and find out what I could about this amazing woman.
For the rest of that day and the days following, my journey is changed. It’s not any easier but it is special in almost a sacred way. Amber touched my life when I needed it most. ‘I can do that for someone too,’ I thought.
Meanwhile at home, I opened my gift and just about everything in it was handmade. It contained a quilted throw, laminated prayer cards, a precious prayer rock (with a poem attached), a beautifully homemade card that begins,”Dear Friend…,” (this made me cry), and several little person items that a woman going through breast cancer would appreciate.
Thank you Amber (and your sister!) for your kind and generous thoughts and actions. You chose to take positive action at a time when your life plans didn’t go your way. Perhaps that’s the result of freefalling on faith. Whatever the reason, you are the inspiration for my cancer journey now!
I invite readers to share stories you may have of surprise blessings during scary times. Together we can help each other even as strangers to overcome the unwanted challenges we face in life. Email me at: janice@wktv.org
In the meantime, I will post helpful links to resources that I’ve discovered on my journey that may help you or someone you know. After all, we’re all in this together!
If you or anyone you know has been diagnosed with cancer of any type, may I recommend checking out Kris Carr’s book, “Crazy Sexy Cancer Tips” or “Crazy Sexy Cancer Survivor”. Her humor, wit and sass will tell you, you are a Survivor from Day One! Learn more about her story at: http://bit.ly/1q9voFQ
More than 2,000 gymnasts from around the Midwest and thousands of spectators are expected to take part in the fifth annual Gymnastics on the Grand Invitational at the DeVos Place Convention Center this December.
The competition, sanctioned by USA Gymnastics, will kick off early Friday morning on December 5th and run through Sunday night.
“My gymnasts love this meet, not only because of its top-notch facility, but because they can show their hometown what they’ve been working so hard to accomplish,” said Shane Uson, owner and head coach of Grand Rapids Gymnastics. “We are excited once again to be bringing the sport of gymnastics into the spotlight in downtown Grand Rapids.”
This also makes the fifth year the even will partner with the Special Olympics of West Michigan. The Special Olympians will show off their gymnastic skills in an exhibition performance on Sunday, December 7th.
Following the exhibition, the invitational continues for the most advanced gymnasts – those with the highest scores the previous day – in event finals.
“Special Olympics Michigan is thrilled to be a part of this great event for another year,” said marketing and development director Ashley Diersch. “Being a part of the invitational has provided our gymnasts opportunities and experiences that they will never forget! It has been a great partnership between the two organizations and the support and inclusion has been special to all involved.”
Making a special appearance again this year will be 2004 Olympic All-Around Champion, and member of the USA Gymnastics Hall of Fame, Carly Patterson! Carly will be at the competition to meet fans and sign autographs throughout the weekend. Media interviews may be requested in advance. Visit www.GymnasticsOnTheGrand.com for the entire schedule.
When: December 5-7
Friday – 8:00am-9:00pm
Saturday – 8:00am-9:00pm
Sunday – 8:00am-9:00pm
