Highlighting Local Gems

Over the past decade we have had the chance to learn about so many incredible folks from a wide range of industries and backgrounds and our highlighter series is designed to give us an opportunity to go deeper into their stories with to goal of understanding them, their thought process, how their values formed and the foundations of their stories. Check out some incredible folks below – many of whom you may have read about already and a few new names as well.

TIFFANEE BRINKMAN

I recently graduated from a community health work program. Read more>>

Cathy Blatnik

My 21-year-old son, Dominic, has Autism, ADHD, Anxiety Disorder, Epilepsy and Intellectual Disability. He also has a severe speech and language delay. Any type of spontaneous language is a reason to celebrate! About a week ago, Dominic came to me and was telling me, ‘No more grapes, carrots!’ He eats the same thing for lunch everyday whether he is at school or at home. Read more>>

Tommy Martin Jr.

I would tell my younger self, “You’re enough, just as you are. Don’t waste time doubting yourself or comparing your journey to anyone else’s. Every challenge you’re facing now will one day become the very reason you’re strong enough to step into the opportunities meant for you. Keep creating, keep believing, and don’t be afraid to dream bigger than what’s around you. Read more>>

Jessica Stasik

If I could say one kind thing to my younger self, it would be: you are strong, and you are enough. I grew up being bullied for my size, and at the time it made me feel unloved and unworthy. Read more>>

Brandon Phillips

Yes, absolutely. I behave the same whether I have my camera or not. My camera is like my phone – I always have it with me. Read more>>

Ally Paige Mrozek

Is the public version of me the real me? I would say yes and no. The expectations put onto people to show their best selves on social media is there whether we like to acknowledge it or not. Instagram filters out all of the struggles and hardships of life. The glimpses of my life and work that I share on social media are all curated. Read more>>

Megan Shankel

Suffering has taught me that there is beauty in the struggle. I had I not gone thru such fires I would have mot been able to bloom from ashes. Sometimes you have to struggle alone to see the big picture. Every wonderful book as a story lines Read more>>

Chef Carl Leatherberry Jr

I’ve suffered many wounds in life, as we all have. The wounds that was most defining was the death of four women who were paramount in my life: My wife , My grandmother, My baby’s mother, and the most painful my only daughter who all where very dear to me. Read more>>

Delaney Mott

My friends would say what truly matters to me is connection, love, and creativity. My favorite moments in life are the ones where I am doing one of those things or a combination of them. My biggest joy in life is connecting with people and building relationships, and my creative passions are the catalyst for that. Read more>>

Sarah Michals

I believe that everyone who knows me is aware of my passion for keeping our public lands accessible and available to all. I volunteer at numerous clean-up events throughout Wisconsin and Michigan, and trust me, there is plenty more clean-up that can be done. Respect for these lands starts with education, and I plan to be part of the solution through more volunteer events. Read more>>

Bernard Allen

Honestly I wouldn’t want to go back to the past because the past is what shaped me into the Man I amToday. The very exact moment that shaped the way I see the world happened on 08/08/2023. On that specific day my Son was born. Ever since that day I solely make decisions that’s best for my family and the greater good. Read more>>

Anthony Bennetts

I feel the most peace when I’m in nature or taking pictures, especiallywhen im doing both of them at the same time. When I say nature, it could also just be being outside or in the city. I do find peace in the chaos of the city life. But, when I’m near trees, I will hug them. Read more>>

Jeff Costello

Before the world tapped me on the shoulder and said, ‘hey, you’re going to be a teacher,’ I was in a regional touring A Circuit rock band after college. During our most successful period (1991-1994) Paris Blue typically played six nights/week about fifty weeks/year, or about 300 shows per year. Read more>>

Suhair Alhaidary

Honestly, I’ve had so many happy and exciting moments doing what I love. Every client brings a new memory, and I’ve been lucky enough to capture some of those moments along the way. Read more>>

Denitra Townsend Gregory

Yes! I’ve never been one to hop on trends that weren’t genuinely me (in style, career, education, etc.). So while the world is constantly moving, and FAST, I always choose to walk at a steady pace. Being intentional and purposeful has always been more important than being the first to arrive. So what if I move slower. I’ll still get there! Read more>>

Dr. Portia Lockett

If I lay down my name, my role, and even my possessions, what remains is the essence of who I am. Titles can shift, roles can change, and material things can be gained or lost—but my spirit, my character, and the love I’ve poured into others will always remain. Read more>>

Antione Minor GODs Vessel Music

I would have GOD JEHOVAH JESUS HOLY SPIRIT I would have the care that I have for GOD, myself, and people Read more>>

Isiah Barnes

I don’t believe in short term thinking or aiming small. Everything big that was ever created, invented or brought to the world took many years and decades to get to that level. Read more>>

Ann McGrath

I think childcare in general, has a lot of misconceptions especially for early childhood. I run a home preschool which also falls under the umbrella of daycare. Most of the misconceptions I personally have come across are people that think we ‘just play with kids all day’. Read more>>

Chasity Kleinsorge

I think a lot of people struggle with mental health but don’t talk about it. You never know what someone is dealing with behind closed doors, and because there’s still so much stigma around things like depression and anxiety, people often keep it to themselves. Read more>>

Tristen Bailey

A day in my life is definitely not boring, it’s a little bit of everything all at once! 🌸 While I’m a proud business owner, I also work a 9–5 and I’m in an MBA program (yes, I stay busy 😅). Read more>>

Jugashree Bisoi

I begin each day with virtual yoga alongside my school friends, followed by simply enjoying each other’s company. One of my favorite rituals is having a cup of tea in my backyard while watching the birds—it always brings me peace and joy. I try to find happiness in everything I do throughout the day, whether big or small. Read more>>

Justine Bell

Open enrollment starts October 1st, so my whole day is geared towards that right now. I’m up at 6:50 am to get my kiddo to school and in the office each day by 7:45. Read more>>

Mykaila Boyd

I would regret not staying focused and making a name for Sizzlin Saladz I will regret giving up and not being the chef that My Chef trained me to be I will regret not keeping my faith and being determined and letting those down that believe in me. Read more>>

Ember Henderson

I’ve felt most loved in the little everyday moments. When my son climbs into my lap just because he wants to be close. When my boyfriend hands me a cup of coffee in the morning before I’ve even asked. When I’m laughing so hard with friends that my face hurts. Those are the times I notice it the most, because they feel natural and unforced. Read more>>

Stacey Lee

The last time I felt pure joy was while acting. That is my true passion, and I thank GOD for my talents, and gifts. Each time I am on set to film I feel the happiest. Read more>>

Lauren McCormick

I really admire all of the West Michigan Therapy Dogs volunteers for their character, not their power. They’re humble about what they do, yet the service they provide alongside their furry companions is profoundly powerful. Read more>>