What does an Indian farmer do when his son takes a job in the United States? If you’re 60-year-old Kashmir Singh, you move along with him, take the bus to daily English lessons, and then study for a driver’s license in your new second language. After that, because you’ve worked all your life, you look for any job you can find to feel productive, ultimately becoming the prize employee at the local car wash. As old dogs, can we learn new tricks? One delightfully plucky immigrant demonstrates yes, we can!
We are fortunate to have a non-profit like Feeding America West Michigan in our community. Recently, they held their summer fundraising luncheon honoring those individuals and organizations that have gone above and beyond to assist those in need of food assistance throughout West Michigan, as well as the Upper Peninsula. Ken Estelle, CEO of Feeding America West Michigan, shared that distribution was up 10% over last year, totaling 26.5 million pounds of food provided through associated pantries, mobile food trucks, and other hunger-relief agencies. Though the economy may be slowing improving, “a lot of people are still struggling,” stated Estelle. He emphasized that solving hunger here in our community requires “many hands” and the importance of organizations, corporations, churches, and individuals working together.
Feeding America Artwork by Local Artist Reb Roberts.
Honored this year was Food Donor, Kellogg Company, having donated over 740,000 pounds of food, as well as contributing an endless supply of volunteers and funding. The Nelis family were awarded the Excellence in Advocacy award for their tireless efforts in raising awareness. The Outstanding Partner Agency was awarded to Love INC Newaygo who serve over 900 families a month, running 15 mobile pantries. Since 2006 Love INC has distributed 3.8 million pounds of food. The Feeding America West Michigan Food Bank has over 3,00 volunteers, and Carole Griffeth was honored with the Exceptional Volunteer award, putting in 2400 hours of service since 2009.
While Feeding America and their many volunteer groups are known for distributing needed food assistance, perhaps the most engaging testimony of the day was given to a women who has been on the receiving end of assistance, Michele Childs. She is currently a client of Streams of Hope, an affiliate of FAWM, located in the Townline community of Kentwood. Just 3 years ago, Childs shared, she was told she was super morbidly obese. Super morbid obesity is defined as having a body mass index (BMI) of 50+–normal being 19-24.
“At 40 years old I could not tie my shoes, get in or out of a bathtub, or fit in a restaurant booth,” she explained.
“I guess it’s true you are what you eat because I ate comfort foods, high in calories, carbs, sodium, and saturated fats.”
Childs and a dear friend, Charnette Perry, who was suffering from obesity, diabetes, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, made a promise to each other to get healthy. After Charnette passed, at the age of 44, Childs felt the need to fulfill that promise. A struggling single mother of 2, having survived an abusive relationship, Childs was in a dark place and found herself at nearly 400 pounds. She admits that she was “clueless how to purchase and cook food” to improve her health. She needed help.
From Left to Right: Regina Thomas, Michelle Childs, and Barbara Nauta. Photo by Kathryn Gray
Knowing that she would do “whatever it took,” Childs underwent bariatric surgery in October 2011. Dealing with diabetes that was out of control, Childs’ dietician introduced her to the Spectrum Nutritional Options for Wellness (NOW) program at Streams of Hope. She shared that the first time she visited the food pantry she felt humiliated. Fortunately, Childs found that the staff and volunteers passed no judgment but were instead eager to help her with more than just food assistance. The staff provided not only calorie information but the right kinds of food, combined with exercise and education for making lifestyle changes.
Barbara Nauta, organizational leader for Streams of Hope, explains that beyond providing food assistance, SOH provides educational and emotional support, building relationships, mentoring, and meeting family needs, all leading to healthier communities. Streams of Hope currently serves 5800 families, providing 336,000 pounds of food, while providing exercise classes, student tutoring, and a community garden. As healthy lifestyle choices are not just for adults, SOH is gearing up for the 2nd annual World Cup Readers Soccer Camp, engaging kids in reading activities combined with games and sports, including a nightly cook-out.
Michele Childs is surrounded by friends and supporters. Photo by Kathryn Gray
“Surgery is just a tool,” explains Childs. “The programs and classes at Streams of Hope helped me before and after.” Childs has a brighter outlook today. Currently she has lost 180 pounds. She was not flown to a glorious ranch, did not have a personal trainer at her beck and call for months, or compete for a $250,000 grand prize. Michele Childs made a promise and with the help of Streams of Hope, is a beautiful example of the Biggest Loser in Kentwood. She shines as she proclaims, “I eat right for my life!”
Feeding America West Michigan and Streams of Hope are always in need of help: be it volunteers, food donations, or monetary contributions. As Ken Estelle shared, there are still a lot of people struggling, wondering where their next meal will come from. One in four children in West Michigan are still considered “food insecure.” We all have a role to play in ensuring that those in need find the food resources available in our community. To volunteer, or to make food or monetary donations go to Feedingamericawestmichigan.org.
For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me. Matthew 25:35
The Citizen Journalism Team of Mike DeWitt and Colleen Pierson get the opportunity to hear Marge Wilson’s stories.
It will be a huge celebration. As well it should be. Marge’s Donut Den in Wyoming, MI. celebrates its 40th anniversary with entertainment, low prices, food, religious services and fun for the entire family.
Donuts and coffee all day will be priced at 1975 prices at .45 cents.
When Marge opened 40 years ago she put her children to work for $1.00 an hour.
“They had to do their homework and then wash dishes and help. I earned 00.00 from the bakery, Marge shared. My total sales from June to the end of the year was $6,000.00.”
Marge juggled a job at Union Bank during the day and the bakery at night.
“The flour bags made a good nap place. I loved the children who picked out donuts with sprinkles and a toy. Watching them all grow up has made me love my job all these past 40 years. Now I get to enjoy their children,” she exclaimed.
So the 40th anniversary will be a time to thank her customers. It will also be the opportunity for people to see her newly remodeled expansion. Paul Collins’ Artwork graces the wall and there’s plenty of space in the community room.
Here is the schedule for the 40th celebration:
June 20
4:00a.m. Open–Coffee and donut here or to go is 45 cents
7:00a.m.– Catholic Mass
8:30 Breakfast ( Donation only)
9:00a.m.- Freddie the clown
10:00a.m.- Silvertons
2-4:00p.m. Grand Rapids Accordians
June 21
6:00a.m. Open
7:00a.m. Protestant Service
Noon–Lunch ( Tickets Only) $10.00 each
1-4p.m. Hark Up Group playing Music as a Gift for our Anniversary
Coffee & Donuts are still 45 cents a day. Dozens to go to regular price.
Team Yellow wins the gold, Team Orange takes the silver and Team Purple claims the bronze – all for a good cause!
by Mike Endres
Neighborhood Spring Olympics put the “fun” in fundraising.Participants play for big bucks!
For the seventh year in a row, a group of local residents held their Spring Olympic games to raise money for charity. These ‘backyard’ Olympics consist of eight teams of two players each. Each team represents a charity that they are passionate about and pay a buy-in to compete in the games. The team that wins the Olympics has the total purse donated to their favorite charity.
Prior to the big day, the teams vote on which games will be played. This year the players chose bowling, ladder ball, washers, hockey, miniature golf, Nerf archery, pool, corn hole and ping pong. Although it rained the day of the event, participants couldn’t help but have an amazing time!
All participants are entitled to a cookout following the games.
By the end of the competition, the Yellow Team (Jason and Ashley Martin) won it all for their charity, Family Life Today. And just like in the traditional Olympics, the top three teams win gold, silver and bronze medals respectively.
In addition to overall winners, some individual events featured prizes thanks to generous local sponsors including Marge’s Donut Den, Park Center Lanes, Debbie’s Twist & Shake, Waste Management, blueVortex.net, and EP Adventures.
The coolest thing about this effort is that YOU too could plan a similar event as a means to have fun with friends and make a contribution to a good cause. For information on how, contact event organizer Mike Endres at mike@blueVortex.net
How does Michigan attract and keep top talent? The state government believes it is done by making immigrants feel welcome to live and work there. Alan talks with Karen Phillippi, Deputy Director for Michigan’s Office for New Americans, about such initiatives.
Afif Gaibi escaped from Saddam Hussein’s tyranny as a teen.
Editor’s Note: As Citizen Journalists we make an effort to highlight the different experiences of people living in the Kentwood and Wyoming area. We teamed up with West Michigan Lutheran High School English students to focus on stories about individuals immigrating to the United States in search of a better life. The following story was written by one of those students giving their perspective of immigration.
by CJ Blanchard, West Michigan Lutheran High School
Afif Gaibi is the team leader for Oliver Products shipping and receiving department. I was able to interview him through my mom, who is a coworker of his. I am glad to have been able to sit down and talk with Afif because he shares many stories along with a good deal of knowledge. His life is quieter now, but in his younger years, it was far more dangerous than what most people in the states would experience.
As a teen, he lived in Kuwait. His father was from the Middle East while his mother was from India. This was crucial for their escape from Saddam Hussein’s tyranny and also the Gulf War. They fled to India, where Afif went to the University of Bombay to study.
Before he came over to America to attend college, Afif traveled around the world, most notably England and Hong Kong. He was also able to land a job at MTV in Asia. Meanwhile his parents had other plans. They were not happy with him partying and having fun all the time, so they sent him off to America to learn. It was not hard for him to adapt to American culture because he had always watched American television growing up and learned English in his grade school.
He first landed in Atlanta in 1996. He lived there for a bit before traveling to Oregon and then finally, Michigan. In Michigan, he attended Davenport University after a long distance cousin was able to set him up with a scholarship. He majored in Science and earned a bachelor in electronics, both of which he has never used.
Afif has not stopped traveling and doesn’t plan to in the future. He believes knowledge is power, and that traveling has opened many doors for him, physically, mentally, and spiritually. “Everyone has the same direction, just different paths,” he says adding that without religion as the center of your life, you are lost.
Along with traveling and enlightening himself with religion and knowledge, he enjoys his favorite things, which are motorcycles, country music, and baseball. His advice to anyone who wants to travel like he does is pretty simple.
“You have to have it personally inside you. Be ready to learn and want to go and actually do it. Have a positive mentality and use others to inspire you, because traveling changes you, and your perspective, for the better,” he explains.
In America, a cohesive and strong family unit can typically mean spending one night a week playing board games or even heading to the movies. While the Pearson family spends time participating in all of the above, they also have another unique common interest.
The Pearson Family, ranging from ages 4 to 15, are all talented singers and musically inclined artists.
Husband and Pastor Scotty Pearson said it all began when he and his wife Layfoya met in choir class at Ottawa Hills High School, and from there, it blossomed as they married and started having kids. Now, they perform throughout the West Michigan community as a family. Lafoya explains they truly began to perform together as a whole around 2009 and that music has always been a niche for the children.
“[The kids] harmonize really well together,” Layfoya explained. “We never really had to teach harmony.”
Layfoya states that singing comes naturally to the kids, so naturally even, that they don’t ever have a specific practice time.
“We like to keep it fun so they don’t get burnt out,” Lafoya said. “We’re on the road a lot so we get our practice in, in the car…it really is fun for us, we’ll be hanging out and then pull together and just start singing.”
Son DeLonte Pearson agrees and said that even his interest has gone beyond just singing.
“We all love to dance with each other, we make fun of each other a lot,” DeLonte explained, “But once we finish making fun of each other we do correct each other.”
Daughter Azaria Pearson and son Scotty agree. They said they love goofing off with the family.
“I think people are amazed to see a family that can enjoy each other,” Dad Scotty said.
Overall, Lafoya and Scotty both say they feel blessed and fortunate to be able to share a passion with all of their children. As far as their goals for the approaching future, Scotty says they’re looking to record a CD.
“I really wanna do [a CD] before everyone grows into who they are so we can hold that balance of family and just branch out from there,” Scotty said.
Roberto Torres stands tall in the community and not just because he wears cowboy boots and a ten-gallon hat. This humble campesino child learned to fight for his dignity in Anglo schools. He went on to become an avid reader, U.S. Marine, and community organizer. Through the great recession of 2007, he led economic development activities in northern Ohio until being selected executive director of the Hispanic Center of Western Michigan. The two proudest possessions in his office? A pickle hamper and a construction helmet. Find out why in this inspiring interview with Roberto Torres.
The City of Wyoming will hold its annual Memorial Day Ceremony on Monday, May 25 at 7:00 pm at the Veteran’s Memorial Garden (2300 DeHoop SW). Harriet Sturim, 5th District Auxiliary Chaplain, will be the guest speaker for the event, with her address entitled, “Voice for our Veterans”. The Lee High School band will perform along with the Wyoming Department of Public Safety Honor Guard. Bronson Swan, a graduate of Lee High School, and a veteran, as well, will perform “Taps”. Mayor Jack Poll will host the ceremony. In addition, the newest arch for the Veteran’s Memorial Garden (made possible by Community Development Block Grant funding) will be recognized.
“The City of Wyoming prioritizes the recognition those who have served, and continue to serve, our country in the armed forces,” according to Rebecca Rynbrandt, Director of Community Services for the City of Wyoming. “Our Memorial Day and Veteran’s Day Ceremonies are a tribute to that service. We are grateful to have a place in Wyoming (Veteran’s Memorial Garden) where we cannot only hold these ceremonies, but where people can honor and reflect, at any time, on those who have protected, and continue to protect, our freedoms.”
The City of Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department is committed to creating community through people, parks and programs by providing services, facilities and activities for the citizens of Wyoming and the greater metropolitan area. For more information, please contact the City of Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department at 616-530-3164 or parks_info@wyomingmi.gov or visit our Facebook fan page at https://www.facebook.com/WyomingParksRec.
65-year-old Jim Phillips is one of the original River Bank runners and ran the race for 33 consecutive years. He has recently been diagnosed with mesothelioma and is undergoing continual chemotherapy. Jim underwent brain surgery and Doctors removed part of his brain–the right cerebellum– which controls balance and equilibrium. He also had prostrate cancer, a hernia, has gone through bacterial meningitis and hydrocephalus and fights highly aggressive cancer. Did any of these severe medical issues stop him from taking part in this year’s 5/3 event? As the saying goes, you can’t keep a good man down.
He and his wife Linda braved the humid and rainy day during race day walking hand in hand completing the 3.1 mile walk.
” I just wanted to be part of the event, it’s fun,” he said.
His wife knew he could go through with it. “He’s a fighter and just doesn’t give up,” she said.
The retired letter carrier always keeps a positive mental attitude to fight the aggressive cancer and stays in shape by exercising.
“I don’t cling to the past, I don’t dwell on the future. I enjoy every day and try to do as much as we can.”
Jim has lost over 100 pounds since all of his medical issues and looks forward to going to Iceland this summer with his wife and friends.
So how was the entire 5/3/ experience?
“I am so glad that I did this, I was very, very, tired the last half mile, but I completed it and that makes me very happy.”
His wife Linda was at his side the entire time.
“His legs got weak and they start buckling on him at the end of the race. The crowd and police officers could tell he was struggling, so they began cheering him on loudly with encouragement. The determination that he has is what has gotten him to this point. It was a really great experience for him,” she shared.
And what about next year?
“Good Lord willing, and if his health is okay, yes we will be back and we will do it again,” Linda concluded enthusiastically.
Choir Teacher Carrie Hoeksema teaches lessons well beyond the classroom
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.
A hero in my eyes is someone with a genuine and caring heart. Someone who is there when I and others need them and unafraid to speak their mind.
One of my heroes is a strong and spirited woman who walks into a classroom with a bright smile on her face and a positive attitude that shows she’s ready for whatever life has to throw at her. She has a powerful voice that can be heard across an entire school and is never afraid to use it. My hero is an absolutely wonderful choir teacher named Mrs. Carrie Hoeksema.
Each day she walks into the choir classroom at East Kentwood High School full of energy and ready to lead our class and motivate us to perform beautiful music. She consistently pushes the class to sing out and let our voices be heard, and always compliments and teaches us how to do better and grow as musicians. She’s always there for her students, and is always looking to help in any way she can.
Her inspiration to become a choir teacher came during her freshman year of college. She had been in band in high school and had her doubts about what choir would be like, but she decided to give it a try anyway. The choir instructor at the time was retiring, and the new instructor was the one who really inspired her to pursue a career as a choir teacher herself.
As a choir teacher, she feels like the most satisfying part of her job is the interaction with teens, the wide range of emotions surrounding them, and just the dramatic flair that comes with it. She thinks teens are full of hope and ideas, that they are unbreakable, and even responsible. The best part about her job is finding out these things from her students and creating strong relationships with them. She is sure they take the lessons she has taught and make use of it long after high school and college.
Her faith is very important to her, and she owes her biggest influence to God. She believes God inspires her to be the best person that she can be. She also believes God planted her on Earth to help and inspire kids and be a positive role model. Her faith keeps her going, and inspires her to keep kids and even staff members upbeat. Along with her faith, she owes her peppy spirit and personality to her late Grandma Sorensen, who was also quite bubbly and positive.
As a leader herself, she looks up to students who show leadership skills. She believes compassion, ethics, confidence, commitment, the willingness to learn, helping others, and the sense of community and world are all very important qualities of a leader.
Mrs. Hoeksema is not only one of my heroes, but also a strong and positive leader, an amazing teacher, and an awesome person to be around.
Competitive cheerleading has been an eye-opening experience for April Martinez.
There’s more to competitive cheerleading than performing heart-stopping extended split stunts and the toe touch basket toss. Godwin Height High School team members say the sport literally changes lives.
Just ask eleventh-grader Joy Parker.
“I was failing all my classes before coach gave me a place to relieve stress,” she said.
Joy said she was considering dropping out of school, but the friendships she has forged with her teammates has enabled her to tunnel through her troubles.
“I didn’t think I could graduate,” Joy said. “Cheering saved my life. This team is my life, my family. It has given me hope.”
This stunt is called the “toe touch basket toss to a cradle catch.”
Tenth-grader April Martinez joined the team in November because she’s outgoing and cheerful, which convinced her that competitive cheerleading would be a good fit. Her hunch didn’t disappoint.
But competitive cheerleading also has been an eye-opener. Before she joined, April assumed cheerleading would be a cakewalk. Far from it. But it’s that inherent challenge competitive cheerleading requires that ensures April shows up for each practice and competition.
It Takes Strength, Stamina
“You have to have strength and stamina,” April said. “It’s a lot of work, commitment and time. If you try your best, you can do it. Coach has taught us if you can dream it, you can do it.”
“Coach” is Amanda Cook, one of the 25-member varsity cheerleading team (grades 9-12) and 30 sideline cheerleaders seen at football games. Godwin’s team competes against Lee, Kelloggsville, Hopkins, Calvin Christian and NorthPointe Christian.
It’s competitive cheerleading that gets the heart pumping, Cook said.
Competitive cheerleading is judged for cheer creativity; emotion and voice strength; skills in executing splits, tumbles and jumps; and “stunting,” which ranges from the two-legged variety to one-legged extended stunts and high-flying basket tosses.
Like Any Other Sport
Make no mistake, Godwin’s cheerleaders consider competitive cheerleading a sport just as much as shooting hoops or running on the gridiron.”We run like other athletes,” said tenth-grader Najha Lofton, who’s been cheering for four years. “We have to lift bodies in the air. You get tired. You still have to work as hard as other athletes.”Najha likes that challenge. She also appreciates how it helped her overcome her fear of flying – in an airplane.”I’m very determined to get things done,” Najha said. “I used to have a fear of flying in a plane or roller coaster. Not anymore. I love tumbling. It’s my favorite part. I’m really flexible, so that helps.”Coach Cook said being involved in cheerleading often surprises those on the team.
“A lot of the girls don’t consider themselves athletes and after one season, they really see themselves as athletes,” she said. “We really do lift weights and run laps. I’ve had seven girls play soccer for first time this year because they were too afraid to join until they joined the cheerleader team.”
That was the resounding question at the second annual Give On…To Live On event on May 7, 2015. The “heart” refers to the red heart insignia provided by the Secretary of State when you register to be an organ and tissue donor.
The Give On…To Live On event, sponsored by Gift of Life Michigan, was held, according to organizer Karla Huitsing, “To not only raise awareness, but also to celebrate life.” In attendance were many who had received life-saving organ transplants. Chef Oliver Hale, affectionately known as “Chef O,” is a two-time kidney recipient. Chef O confirms his heart-felt gratitude for the opportunities has been given stating, “I have been blessed. I have been given a second chance at life.”
Rick and Marci are friends for life
Also in attendance was Marci Prince who felt the call to become a “living donor” while watching an appeal by Kate Couric on television. “My family had always been involved in donating blood. After watching the program I knew it was my time to donate a kidney.” Soon afterward Marci would learn that her kidney was an excellent match for Rick Herlacher, a local man on the kidney waiting, whose need would also be the inspiration for the first Give On…To Live on gathering in 2014. Marci met Rick and the two bonded immediately. The transplant was a success and both Marci and Rick continue to speak on behalf of Gift of Life outreach efforts. Although Rick could not attend the event this year, Marci states, “Rick is living proof of the gift of life.” When asked about her personal giving, she responds, “ Isn’t that what the human race is designed to do?”
The fact is that the need for organ and tissue donors in Michigan is great. As of March 1, 2015 there were 3,497 patients awaiting transplant. Thousands of others need tissue to relieve their pain, heal their wounds, and help them see again. On average, 400 people are added to waiting lists every 20 minutes, while 14 people awaiting organs die each day.
The quest to raise awareness in our state is urgent. The Donor awareness movement in Michigan has increased greatly due to the actions of the Michigan Secretary of State. Instead of the passive approach of waiting to ask family members for organ donation after a death has occurred, the Secretary of State branches now active as people if they would like to register for organ donation when they are obtaining a license or state ID.
Dr. Luis Tomatis, Director of Medical Affairs for the Richard M. DeVos family and renowned cardiothoracic surgeon, led a panel discussion regarding organ donation in West Michigan. The panel consisted of Dr. Daniel Borreson, Surgical Director of Adult Renal Transplant at Mercy Health St. Mary’s and the Surgical Director of pediatric renal transplantation at Spectrum Health Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital; Dr. Muneer Abidi , oncologist with the Spectrum Health Medical Group Adult Blood and Marrow Transplant Program; and Dr. Martin Strueber, Surgical Director for the Spectrum Health Richard M. DeVos Heart and Lung Transplant Program. All stressed the need for increased awareness and the opportunity for Grand Rapids to become one of the leading transplant sites for adults, as well as children, in our state.
Dr. Abidi, who deals with blood cancers and stem cell treatments, reinforced the need for donor registry outreach, especially in minority communities.
Dr. Martin Strueber, who recently moved to Grand Rapids from Germany, saw the Medical Mile and the advancements in heart and lung transplants locally, and has ambition to grow the Center and make transplants more available in our area.
Dr. Borreson also sees opportunity for West Michigan to become a major transplant destination for two main reasons: First, Spectrum Health is a Regional Level 1 Trauma Center, increasing the availability of potential organs locally. Second, character of West Michigan is based largely on Christian values and altruism. When we see a need, we meet a need. One of the most important things stressed by Dr. Borreson is no matter if you have a heart sticker on your license, “Make your wishes known to your family.”
Many who attended the Give On…To Live On event were awaiting organs, just as Rick Herlacher was in 2014. Their hope and their prayer is that someone will be a match, someone will step up and offer the ultimate gift of life. Could that person be you?
To sign up on the Michigan Organ Donor Registry simply go online to giftoflifemichigan.org or call 1-800-482-4881. You can also go online or visit any Michigan Secretary of State branch to receive a red heart to place on your license or state ID. You hold the keys to saving another’s life—register today!
By now you all have probably seen the results of yesterday’s vote on the Kentwood proposals. While we will celebrate the passing of the building and site/sinking fund, we are disappointed that the technology, safety, and building upgrade proposal was defeated. The citizens of our community are valued partners and we are committed to using their funds responsibly and carefully. The fact that the vote was split means that we needed to better identify what was needed and why it was needed. At the same time, this does not change the fact that we are committed to providing an education of excellence to every child within our district.
We appreciate those that went out to vote and the fact that they shared their perspectives
Thank you to all of you who worked so hard to get the word out.
Michael Zoerhoff
Superintendent
Kentwood Public Schools
It was a colorful, joyful celebration. The perfect way to take part in Cinco de Mayo. Hundreds gathered at the Grand Rapids Public Museum to honor the theme of hope, determination, inclusion and respect.
Contrary to popular belief, Cinco de Mayo is not the celebration of Mexico’s Independence Day. It celebrates the victory in the Battle of Puebla by the indigenous people against the powerful French army.
Among the many accomplishments symbolized by Cinco de Mayo observances, the Committee to Honor Cesar E. Chavez celebrates the determination of Mexicans as demonstrated in the Battle of Puebla. Like the steadfast commitment of the Mexican soldiers, the Committee is determined to give students the gift of opportunity through education. In doing so, the rich legacy, spirit and impact of the Battle of Puebla is forever a part of our lives throughout the year.
The 2015 Honorees this year were Michael Flanagan, Connie Dang and Chuy Morales.
Mike Flanagan has been State Superintendent in Michigan for 10 years;and was a local and regional superintendent before that. During his career in education leadership, Mike has been determined to make sure all kids in Michigan have a quality life and education–no matter their race, culture, or personal and economic circumstances.
Connie Dang serves as the director of the Office of Multicultural Affairs at Grand Valley State University. In the community, she serves as board of trustee of the Historical Society of Michigan, member of the Unity Committee to Honor Cesar E. Chavez and a member of the West Michigan Advocates& Leaders for Police and Community Trust.
Chuy Morales, along with his wife Angie, embarked on a journey to provide a voice to many within the Hispanic Community. Their determination and passion led to the formation of an internet radio station called, La Mejor. This radio station has become a vital source of information for the Hispanic community providing program featuring education, health and sports.
The celebration also included music and dance by the Pearson family and the Cook Art Center, Mexican Folkloric Dance Class. The event proved to be inspirational, entertaining, and informative.
The Mexican Folkloric Dance Class from the Cook Art Center entertainCommittee members worked hard to ensure success
This is an event that will prove to be inspirational, informative and educational. Talons Out Honor Flight requests your presence at the Homecoming Celebration for over 110 World War II veterans on May 16, 2015! Talons Out is the Southwest Michigan hub of the National Honor Flight Network who recognizes the sacrifices and achievements of these veterans by flying them to Washington D.C. for a day at absolutely no cost. While in D.C. these servicemen and women will visit the National World War II Memorial as well as several events scheduled to honor their service.
“We are losing close to 900 WWII veterans each day, “explains Talons Out President Bobbie Bradley, “There are fewer than 2 million alive today.” Each veteran deserves to see the elegant memorial raised to honor those who gave so much for our country. Bradley describes the flight as their “final mission.”
The veterans and their guardians will be leaving out of Gerald R. Ford International Airport at 7:00 a.m. Saturday morning. After a whirlwind of activity in D.C., the flight will land back in Grand Rapids around 8:30 that evening and have a heartwarming patriotic escort to East Kentwood High School. That’s where you come in!
“Everything we do from start to finish is to honor the veterans,” states Jamey Matheny, Flight Day Coordinator. “We would like not only family and friends, but the whole community to come out and show these men and women our gratitude.”
There will be food, entertainment, and an opportunity to make posters to greet the veterans as they roll in. Come out to East Kentwood field house after 7 p.m. to cheer them on, shake a hand or two, and thank them for their service! It promises to be a day the veterans will remember for the rest of their lives!
“Volunteers are welcome and we want to hear from you if you or your group would be interested in honoring our heroes, “stresses Matheny. For him and the whole Talons Out crew
Every day is Veteran’s Day!
For more information go to the organization’s website: Talonsouthonorflight.org
If you know of a veteran who would like to attend a future Honor Flight, the next scheduled mission is September 26, 2015.
Brian Kingshott’s mother liked to say her son “came into the world with a bang!” Find out how as Alan interviews Brian Kingshott, an anti-terrorism expert and professor of criminal justice. As a former British intelligence officer, Cornwall and Devon constable, and WW2 bombing survivor, Brian gives us insights on world history and police work… all wrapped up in his inimitable charm and British English accent!
April is National Volunteer Month and along with Michele Smith-Aversa and Kathy Gray, we would like to take the time to honor Mike Moll with his contributions to the sports department on-air and on the web at WKTV.
Mike is a man who loves sports and put that love to work by volunteering at the station. He started his volunteering stint six years ago when he was asked by Paul Kabelman – one of the Sports Directors at WKTV – to announce a high school football game. Mike was thrown into the fire as part of a three-man crew and he had a blast!
“My first game I did color with two other guys in the booth,” describes Mike, “I didn’t do a whole lot of talking, I wanted to soak it in and figure out what I was doing, but I did it once and loved it!”
As a part of the sports department, Mike does a lot more than just show up and announce at kickoff. On top of commentating, he writes stories for now.wktv.org, puts the full sports schedules together for the station, and works with athletic directors to get stats and set up communications with players and coaches.
Mike Moll has found a passion in announcing for WKTV
Mike, a self proclaimed stat nut, doesn’t mind doing the work necessary to get the information he needs, “It’s hard because there’s not a lot of info and stats available for high school sports. You have to do your own digging by making phone calls to coaches and athletic directors.”
The inside of WKTV’s Mobile Unit
Being a volunteer for the past six years, Mike has seen changes within the sports department and the technology offered by the station. He mentioned the truck and it’s massive changes. It’s now all digital and allows for beautiful broadcasts, and it’s all run by volunteers! He’s also very impressed with the new graphics and the focus they have on individual players and coaches.
“Kids and coaches have commented on the individual focus and how it helps get their stories out there. The players like to share information about themselves,” explains Mike.
Producing a game takes a lot of volunteers and their time. Not only do you need the announcers, but you also need camera operators, a director, people to run cables, and graphics and replay operators. They’re all needed for only one game!
It takes a whole team and a lot of hard work, but Mike sees the bigger picture for his volunteer work, “There are an awful lot of amazing student-athletes to cover and we get to give them attention. It’s an opportunity to give back. Could you imagine if no one volunteered?”
No, Mike, I couldn’t! Volunteering is important and also extremely rewarding. Plus, Mike sees another outlet for his volunteering, “It gives me the opportunity to put my work life away for a little while. If I could do my career all over again, I would be an announcer. I’m going to do this for as long as they’ll let me!”
This story has a happy ending, but a tough beginning.
Rick Herlacher of Rockford, Michigan suffered with a kidney disease that was discovered in 2001. He struggled through dialysis three times a week for four hours at a time and went through five surgeries within 12 weeks last year. It was a constant battle to live.
The continued search for a transplant donor finally came to an end. Family members didn’t work out–a total stranger did.
Enter Marci Prince from Hastings, Michigan. She saved Rick’s life by donating a kidney.
“I always wanted to be a donor and I just decided to go for it. I feel blessed to be able to do this,” she explained during a recent interview with WKTV Community Media.
Her selfless, courageous act of wanting to donate her kidney was nothing short of remarkable.
But what are the chances of a total stranger being a perfect match?
“This was a match beyond a match–one in a million,” Rick explained emotionally.
Marci gets ready for surgery with extreme courage and determination.
And so the process began. 26 tubes of blood, continual testing at St. Mary’s Transplant Center, and the surgery itself. Marci, who had been a smoker for 30 years, quit cold turkey when she decided to be a donor. The process involves major surgery and both were in the hospital for 4-5 days.
Rick definitely received the gift of life.
“I was ready to go. I knew right after surgery, when I popped right out bed, everything was going to be great. There was no pain. I walked 20 laps. The nurses were shocked,” Rick enthused.
Rick is ready to go
Rick and Marci are now great friends. They find it difficult to put into words the strong connection they have.
Both of them are continually monitored by the medical staff at St. Mary’s. Rick’s immune system works at 1/3rd his capacity and he can be more than three times likely to have cancer.
But, so far, so good, or should I say– SO GREAT!
“I live every day like it’s my last,” Rick said.
Knowing now all that is involved with being a donor, would she do it again?
“Hell yeah, I would do it again,” she said emphatically.
It is shocking to realize that an average of 18 people die every day due to the shortage of available organ donors.
In total, there are more than 120,000 Americans awaiting their organ transplants, while millions of people die each year without signing up as organ and tissue donors.
400 people are on the wait list right now in Michigan for a kidney transplant. There are people waiting to live, and dying while they wait –it is a statistic that calls us to action when we consider that only 38% of Kent County citizens are signed up as organ donors when their life has ended.
As editors of Wyoming/Kentwood NOW, Colleen, Mike and I appreciate all the contributions we get from people willing to help us share news about our communities. Our mission is to provide something other than what might already be out there on mainstream media. Wyoming and Kentwood are big geographical areas with many neighborhoods. Finding the stories within them take volunteer citizen journalists, like Kathy Gray of Kentwood, to write out the information and share it with us online.
April is National Volunteer Month and along with Michele Smith-Aversa, we salute Kathy Gray for her time, talents and contributions to this website and the community. But Kathy does far more volunteering than just writing articles for us.
The Grays have been married 28 years and have instilled the spirit of volunteering into their two adult kids.
Here’s a woman who loves Kentwood. She’s been a resident here for some 22 years. She works full time for Spectrum Health in physician IT training, has a husband and two kids, and yet finds the time to volunteer – a lot!
I admire people who can do this. It’s something I’ve always wanted to do more of myself. So I want to know how and why?
“I think it started out when my kids were little,” Kathy explains. “I’d come home from work, especially in the wintertime, and I would hibernate. I didn’t like that.”
Kathy decided to change her routine. She began to get out more in the evenings, first by joining a church community and getting involved with groups there. “Once you volunteer for things, you find they are addicting,” she admits laughing. Anytime someone would approach her to volunteer, Kathy would ask ‘What do you need? What do I do?’
“I believe we’re all on this planet to help one another – that’s my Christian philosophy,” she says. “You do whatever you can. Even if it’s helping a mom with three kids getting groceries in her car – that’s why we’re here. And it feels so darn good at the end of the day!””
Over the years though she has learned to use discretion. “It has to be a good fit for me. Something that I look forward to doing.”
Kathy Gray (left) and her friend Laura Boumis are in charge of their church’s food truck every month.
One of her favorite projects is running a mobile food pantry at her church, Kentwood Christian Church, with her good friend Laura Boumis. For the last seven years, they have partnered with Feeding America to provide 5000 pounds of food the second Monday of every month to roughly 150 families in need.
“All we ask is that they register by name and phone number. So they don’t have to show proof of need,” says Kathy. “Anyone can come for it.”
Food is collected by Feeding America and serves 130 to 150 families in the area.
The produce, baked goods and dairy products are collected by Feeding America from area stores just prior to their expiration date. The church pays Feeding America $500 for the food truck which works out to one dollar per person from each church member.
“It’s about distributing good food for use before it goes bad,” she adds. “And there are a lot of people who need it.”
Kathy admits that she looks forward to working Food Truck Mondays, despite all the work involved. “There are some days we’re standing out there in the rain and the sleet and the snow and the heat, and by the end of the day we look beat but we feel great!
“There’s just no greater high in the world!”
Volunteering for the Sunday Sandwich Makers involves her family and the families of her closest friends – 20 in all.
In addition to running the mobile food pantry, Kathy, along with her 17 -year old son Daniel, volunteer as Sunday Sandwich Makers for Kids’ Food Basket. One Sunday a month, you’ll find the Grays and their friends and family on an assembly line making 2500 sandwiches for 37 schools’ Monday lunch.
“Ham and cheese sandwiches are the fastest. Peanut butter slows us down,” she laughs.
Her most recent volunteering project is perhaps her most meaningful. She and her husband of 28 years, Duke, have become involved in the West Michigan Honor Flight for World War II veterans leaving Grand Rapids on May 16th.
“My dad was a World War II veteran and I started learning more and more about how they are dying off so rapidly now. Their mission (Honor Flight) is to get veterans from all across the United States to see the World War II memorials and tour Washington D.C., ” Kathy explains.
The one day event is a full one for the senior veterans and their guardians, beginning at 4:30 a.m. and ending after 8 p.m. in the evening. Upon their return to Grand Rapids, they will be celebrated with a parade, dancing, music and well-wishes from the community. Kathy and her husband Duke will be in charge of the Wheelchair Brigade, 100 of them.
“When the veterans get to the hangar in the morning they’re assigned a wheelchair. Most of them are still spry and fit but during a long day like that, they might need a wheelchair to get off their feet. And by the time they get back here, they’re exhausted. It’s been a 14 hour day. They’ll really need them.”
For Kathy, being a ‘doer’ is the best option for living life. “Otherwise,” she says, “I have a tendency to get depressed being a couch potato. And it’s too easy to have a pity party!”
April is deemed National Volunteer Recognition Month. We decided to pay tribute to some of our Citizen Journalists who have gone above the call of duty to deliver quality stories.
Michele Smith Aversa lends her talents to WKTV’s Citizen Journalism program.
Meet Michele Smith-Aversa. She has been with our online-media site since the onset. Her creativity, intelligence, compassion, and strong writing skills have been a pleasure to witness. Writing is her passion. She lives to share the written word.
“I find life to be boring. Writing gets me out of reality. It’s an escape”–she said.
Michele and her husband enjoy living in Wyoming, Michigan.
Michele lives in Wyoming with her husband Mark and in addition to writing and volunteering she loves to sew, bake, make jewelry and decorate. “If I can create and change something boring and make it beautiful to present to the world–that’s something.”
She is a member of the Cascade Writer’s Group and is working on getting her murder/love story book published. It is a 17 chapter, 70,000 word novel entitled, “Christmas is the Season.”
Her volunteer work at Focus on Ferals on 76th and Clyde Park is another passion. She looks after the cats, socializes them, cleans floors and kitty litter–anything she can do to get them adopted out. “If I can make a difference in one life–my life is worth something,” she said emotionally.
Michele’s life has been a constant struggle with her fight with Borderline Personality Disorder and anxiety. “I fight day in and day out. I don’t ever remember not being like this,” she disclosed.
She is currently in treatment at Pine Rest in a (DBT) dialetic behavioral therapy program.
“I take life each hour at a time.”
Michele also recommends that people don’t treat others with depression lightly by saying: Get over it, or let it go. “Unless you can teach me how to get over it, don’t say that,” she explained.
The WKTV Citizen Journalism team is proud to salute Michele Smith-Aversa. With all of her writing talents, she tends to take an ordinary story and make it extraordinary. She uses her rare brand of humor to examine everyday life situations in a unique manner. We are definitely happy to have her on board as one of our superstar writers!
If you would like to become a Citizen Journalist, call the station at 261-5700 and ask for Colleen, Janice, or Mike.
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 enjoying the taste of his Founders beer.
“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.
Dave takes time out of his busy schedule to talk to the Citizen Journalism Team
“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.
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.
Sister Sue Tracy is, among many things, a Certified Laugh Leader – giving her permission to be silly.
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 laughwith 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.
Tommy Brann and Marge Wilson
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.
The students cheer on the home team.Seniors Darren Dannah (in front) and Mitch Hendrickson (in hat) started the Wolf Pack student section.
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.
Students gather before a girl’s varsity basketball game.
“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.”
Breaking the Mold: Part of Our Ongoing Student Leaders Series
Godfrey-Lee Superintendent David Britten says Jisel Ochoa “has a knack for lighting up the room”
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.
RIZE INVESTS IN CURATION, VENUES AND NIGHTLIFE IN PREPARATION FOR THE SEVENTH ANNUAL EVENT New curatorial fellowship and venue grant programs to support exhibitions while evening programming expands the ArtPrize visitor experience beyond traditional venue hours.The Citizen Journalism team of Colleen Pierson and Janice Limbaugh attended the Art Prize news conference to find out what’s new for 2015.ArtPrize, the radically open international art competition today announced new Curatorial Fellowship and Venue Grant programming designed to support the innovators that make ArtPrize possible. Also new to the seventh annual edition will be ArtPrize Tonight, an event series that will bring vibrancy to the ArtPrize experience beyond traditional venue hours.
In addition to half a million dollars in awards, ArtPrize will also be awarding $220,000 through a host of support grants intended to encourage further possibilities for surprising, challenging and ambitious work at the 2015 event.
“As ArtPrize matures as an organization, we continue to seek out ways to broaden the support we give to venues, artists and educators,” commented Christian Gaines, ArtPrize Executive Director. “New and updated ArtPrize grant programs allow us to support as well as reward the innovators that make ArtPrize a success each year.”
Grants totaling $220,000
Artist Seed Grants, launched in 2014 with the support of the Frey Foundation, awards 25 artists a $2,000 grant. This program will continue in 2015, funding ambitious ArtPrize entries from artists that demonstrate both financial need and artistic merit. ArtPrize Pitch Night will also continue for a third year, expanding to include events in Minneapolis, Indianapolis, Durham and New York City. Each event will elicit work from five artists who will have five minutes to sell their public art concept to a panel of art experts. The winner will be awarded a $5,000 grant, and a spot on a prominent venue in downtown Grand Rapids.
ArtPrize Education Days drew over 13,000 students from across the state of Michigan to the 2014 event, through programming supported by a series of grants. In 2015, $41,000 will be given to ArtPrize institutional partners to create innovative programming with their artists for visiting students. ArtPrize will also award $9,000 in transportation grants to help offset field trip costs and ensure that school groups are able to visit ArtPrize.
In addition to these artist and educator grants, ArtPrize will introduce this year two new grant programs for Venues, which will replace the Exhibition Center and Showcase Venue programs. There are a number of remarkable art institutions that participate as ArtPrize venues each year. In an effort to support their work and spread their exhibition design expertise both within ArtPrize and throughout the year, ArtPrize will introduce the Fellowship for Emerging Curators during the seventh annual event.
This fellowship presents a unique opportunity for emerging curators to gain valuable experience by working with a curator at an established ArtPrize institutional venue. The Fellows will work alongside each institution’s curatorial department as they create their ArtPrize exhibit, as well as curate and produce their own ArtPrize exhibition at a separate location under the mentorship of the institutional curator. The partners participating in this pilot year of the Fellowship for Emerging Curators include the Grand Rapids Art Museum, Kendall College of Art and Design, SiTE:LAB and the Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts. The application period for Curatorial Fellows opens today and will continue through April 6.
Additionally, ArtPrize will support venues through a series of Venue Grants. Similar to the Artist Seed Grant program, every venue is encouraged to apply for the opportunity to receive grants ranging from $500 to $5,000 each, for a total of $30,000. Venues can complete the simple online application form, available starting today, as they register to participate in ArtPrize 2015. The deadline for Venue Grant applications is April 6, prior to the April 9 Venue Registration deadline. Find details for both the ArtPrize Fellowship for Emerging Curators and Venue Grants at artprize.org/get-involved/venues.
“Curators play an essential role in ArtPrize, placing each artwork within a context that has the power to amplify, extend and deepen the artist’s original intent,” noted Kevin Buist, ArtPrize Exhibitions Director. “The ArtPrize Fellowship for Emerging Curators and the Venue Grants are both intended to highlight and support this essential work.”
The hallmark feature of the ArtPrize event – the prizes – will continue to feature two grand prizes of $200,000 each, one decided by public vote, the other decided by a panel of three jurors. There will also continue to be eight artist awards based on category — half decided by the public and half by expert jury. These category awards will account for a combined $100,000, or $12,500 each, with the continuation of the additional Outstanding Venue Juried Award, also worth $12,500.
ArtPrize Tonight
In addition to new and updated grant programming, ArtPrize will introduce expanded evening programming at the seventh annual event. Throughout the 19-day event, ArtPrize Tonight will showcase events in three categories — Critical Discourse, ArtPrize On Screen and ArtPrize On Stage — intended to highlight creative expression through music, performance, video and film.
“Evenings at ArtPrize have been a staple of the ArtPrize experience,” noted Todd Herring, ArtPrize Creative Director. “The city fills with parties and nightlife while art lovers enjoy outdoor art and venues open late. The ArtPrize Tonight series capitalizes on this energy, highlighting the music, performance, video and film that bring vibrancy to the ArtPrize experience.”
A 7-day series of panel discussions and art critiques which includes the televised Why These Finalists? programs, Critical Discourse features prominent voices in contemporary art and design. The events walk the line between irreverence and critical debate. Informative and challenging, Critical Discourse is charged conversation providing art world context to the ArtPrize event.
Through a collaborative partnership with the Waterfront Film Festival, ArtPrize On Screen presents a series of film, video and interactive works screenings at various venues across downtown Grand Rapids. And ArtPrize On Stage brings the energy of live performance to the ArtPrize night scene. Curated by St. Cecilia Music Center, the performances will take place at multiple venues across downtown Grand Rapids, including Rosa Parks Circle. Together, these three event series will bring comprehensive evening programming to ArtPrize, encouraging visitors to explore the event and our city after hours.
ArtPrize 2015 will take place from September 23 to October 11 in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Venue registration is currently open, and any space within the ArtPrize district can sign up to host artists’ artwork and visitors from around the world.
Teresa Thome, former director of Grand Rapids Children’s Museum, takes the stage at LaughFest.
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 1 on 1 met at Grace Bible College this past Thursday to discuss the future
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.
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.
2014 Civilian of the Year Terra Wesseldyk was honored for her work in the Forensic Support Unit.
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.
Jason Caster is Wyoming Public Safety Officer of the Year for his work within the community.
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.”
Brian Ilbrink, Wyoming Public Safety Firefighter of the Year has been with the department 26 years.
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.
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.
Early to bed, early to rise
Hector starts his day at 5 a.m. so he can get to the bus that takes him to 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.”
Important to stretch yourself
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.'”
