Catholic Weekly / Catholic Times

Truck driving priest delivers computers to diocese

Editor — Mon, 17 Jun 2013 16:30:38 +0000

GAYLORD — Fr. Ray Cotter, pastor at Christ the King Parish in Acme, delivers more than sermons.
In May the former truck driver-turned-priest drove a semi-tractor-trailer rig to Bolling Air Force Base in Washington, D.C., to pick up 1,164 recycled government computers for use in Michigan Catholic schools in the dioceses of Lansing, Saginaw, Gaylord and Marquette.

After his delivery in Traverse City, Fr. Cotter headed to the Diocese of Marquette with their portion of the load. The entire trip was funded through a payload Fr. Cotter hauled out on the way to Washington, and donations of funds and equipment. The effort provided schools and parishes in the four dioceses a total of approximately $180,000 of computer equipment at no charge.

The trip was made possible thanks to donation from an anonymous Old Mission cherry farmer and logistical assistance from Earl Ennis, owner of Ennis Trucking in Traverse City; A.M. Express trucking from Escanaba; Prusakiewicz potato farm in Johannesburg and Fr. Cotter’s cousin, who loaned him a 53-foot trailer.
Ennis helped Fr. Cotter find a paying load to take to Washington to offset the diesel fuel expenses and rental of the semi-tractor rig for the 1,800-mile round trip from Prusakiewicz. A.M. Express assisted Fr. Cotter in obtaining cargo insurance and authority to haul from the Department of Transportation.
“I never could have done this without the help of these companies and a family member who threw in a trailer,” Fr. Cotter said.
Fr. Cotter, 62, grew up in Mount Pleasant. He said he learned to drive semi-tractor trucks during the 10 years he worked in the oil fields for “a company with a big truck” before discerning his call to priestly ministry. He was ordained to the priesthood for the Diocese of Gaylord 26 years ago. He has kept his truck driving credentials current ever since, occasionally even hauling a load while on vacation or time off from his parish.
“I have a romance with the highway,” he said. “It started with motorcycles. Driving big trucks today is like driving an RV with a 53-foot pontoon behind you. The trucks are so comfortable and well equipped.”
The trip’s genesis dates back to 2011 when the diocese learned of the humanitarian efforts of retired U.S. Air Force Col. Victor Kuchar. Last year Col. Kuchar made presentations in Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Gaylord about his experiences working with refugees and orphanages in Afghanistan and India. During the visit, he also told diocesan officials about the computer program which donates recycled government computers to non-profit organizations. Col. Kuchar then helped to facilitate the transfer of the computers with Gaylord diocesan schools Superintendent Charles Taylor and Caryn Jacobs in the diocesan Office of Catholic Schools.
Fr. Cotter delivered 324 computers for use in schools and parishes in the Diocese of Gaylord which included 224 desktops, 100 laptops as well as monitors, keyboards, mice, cords and other peripherals for free. A hard drive and appropriate software will need to be purchased for each computer since those were removed prior to shipment for security reasons. That cost is estimated to be approximately $75 per computer. Some of the machines simply were used for parts to increase capacity and efficiency of computers already in use. In total, the Diocese of Gaylord received over $50,000 worth of equipment through the project.
Once they arrived in the diocese, Britten Banners in Traverse City provided temporary storage until the equipment was distributed to their new owners.
Fr. Cotter’s haul included delivering the remaining 840 computers to the Lansing, Marquette and Saginaw dioceses.
“Technology is such an important part of education these days. To be able to tap into this program and provide equipment to our schools and parishes at no cost has really been a blessing,” said Taylor. “We’re just really grateful to Col. Kuchar, Fr. Cotter, and everyone involved in making this happen.”†

Happy Father’s Day from St. Mary Hannah students

Editor — Mon, 17 Jun 2013 16:25:46 +0000

KINGSLEY — St. Mary Hannah School students in grades 2-6 wish their fathers a happy Father’s Day through these letters.

Dear Dad,
My world would be crushed without you here.
I love you so very much.
You are like a dove of love from above.
Your hugs comfort me, my kisses brighten you so much.
You mean the world to me and my world
Love your daughter,
Valeria Campos

Dear Dad,
I love you!
We pray together.
Love,
Cecilia Pedroza

Dear Dad,
I love you Dad.
I cuddle with you.
I miss you.
Kenna Chouinard

Dear Dad,
I love you so much that I want an iPod when I get enough money and I will like it, yes.
He loves me, too, and more.
Love,
Hannah West

Dear Dad,
I know when you are surprised and more and more I love you when you get surprised. But I love you, but try not to get mad. It hurts my feeling.
Love,
Tristan Christou

Dear Dad,
I love the way you play with me.
I love the way you help me.
I like when you do fireworks.
They are pretty cool.
So I wish you a Happy Father’s Day.
Love,
Orianna Payberg

Dear Dad,
I love you when you play with me on the trampoline and when you play Nintendo games with me. I love you so much.
Love,
Juan Campos

Dear Dad,
I like when you go with me on field trips and help me. I like when you go with me to stores.
Love,
Clark Fleis

Dear Dad,
Thank you for paying for the sports that I play. I like when you read me books like the Bible. I appreciate it when you drive me to school. You are the best!
Love,
Mason West

Dear Dad,
Thank you for buying me gum, baseball stuff and school snacks.
I like when you when you take me to my sports games. I like when you cook dinner; like pork chops and goulash.
Love,
Kyle Franke

Dear Dad,
I love you the most and Mommy.
You are nice, sweet, and funny. I like you and it’s fun when we go swimming with Grandma,Grandpa, and Mommy.
Love,
Abby Weber

Dear Dad,
I like it when you play baseball with me.
I also like it when you pick mushrooms with me.
There is another thing I like and that is when you read to me.
Love,
Mary Webb

Dear Dad,
I love you so much because you are a mechanic and a smart guy. I like when you come to my baseball and soccer games.
When I need help on my homework you always come to the rescue.
Love,
Sam Belanger

Dear Dad,
I love you Dad. You help me on math and I get to help you do things and you play with me.
Love,
Isaac Swisher

Dear Dad,
I like when you jump on the trampoline with me. I can’t even jump. When you jump you make me fall down.
Love,
Kenzey Chouinard

Dear Father,
I love you so but I most love you when we go to the cottage together and we always spend time with you. I will never leave you and when you and Mom get old I’ll take good care of you both.
Love,
Austyn

Dear Dad,
Cats are gray, kittens are white.
When it is night you give me a light.
You know I love you all the time,
even though I hit you with slime.
You’re my dad so it’s not a crime.
I miss you when you’re gone,
even when you are mowing the lawn.
When you’re here you are so sincere.
I love you very much.
Love,
Grace

Dear Dad,
I love you so much, you’re so loving and caring. You are so special to me. You take care of me when I’m sick. When something of mine is broken you fix it up. Your jokes are so really funny. You are really fun to be with.
Happy Father’s Day
Love,
Emily

Dad,
You smell like gas and old gasoline
Love,
Grant

Dear Dad,
Thank you for all you do for me. I hope you have the best father’s day ever. I like it when we go fishing.

Love your son,
Brent

Dad,
You do a lot for me. I have fun with you like when we ride horses its fun. Happy Father’s Day.
Love,
Jose

Dear Dad,
I love you so much, more than you could ever imagine. You’re the best dad in the world. I would never trade you for anyone or anything in the world. You help me with my ups and downs. You helped me when we moved. You help me with the pigs and I love it. You are awesome. You helped me when Zach went to the army. You are hard working and you inspire me to do anything I want to do. I love you dad!
Love,
Elizabeth

Dear Dad,
I just want you to know that I love you very much. I love you because you got me a bike and you even fixed the chain when it fell off my bike.
You are so fun to everyone. I like being with you. You make me want to be like you.
Happy Father’s Day.
Love,
Seth

Dear Dad,
I love you. You’re the best person I know. I like it when we work in the pole barn together. Thank you for always being there and always looking out for me,
I love you with all my heart.
Rebecca

Dear Dad,
I love you so much because you are a mechanic and a smart guy. I like when you come to my baseball and soccer games.
When I need help on my homework, you always come to the rescue.
Love,
Sam

Dear Dad,
I love you Dad. You help me on math and I get to help you do things and you play with me.
Love,
Isaac

Three new priests for Grand Rapids Diocese

Editor — Sun, 16 Jun 2013 16:36:57 +0000

On Saturday, June 1, at St. Andrew Cathedral in Grand Rapids, Bishop Walter A. Hurley ordained Scott T. Nolan, Charles J. Schwartz and James R. VanderLaan to the priesthood. The celebration of Mass was followed by a reception at Cathedral Square Center. Fr. Nolan will serve as associate pastor of St. Adalbert Basilica in Grand Rapids and as part-time chaplain at Grand Rapids West Catholic High School. Fr. Schwartz will serve as associate pastor of St. Mary-St. Paul Parish in Big Rapids. Fr. VanderLaan will serve as associate pastor of St. Francis de Sales Parish in Holland with part-time chaplaincy at Corpus Christi Catholic School, Holland. The three new priests of the diocese smile in response to comments by Bishop Hurley at the conclusion of the Mass.

Ten lead Grand Rapids West Catholic

Editor — Thu, 13 Jun 2013 16:38:57 +0000

GRAND RAPIDS — The graduating class of 2013 at Grand Rapids West Catholic High School will be led through commencement exercises by these top students:

Valedictorian: Brendan Kosnik
GPA: 4.66
Parents: Tom and Maggie Kosnik of Grand Rapids
Parish: Holy Spirit
Achievements: National Honor Society, peer minister, soccer, Students for Life, Rotary Club, Quiz Bowl, math field day, Life Force member.
Plans: To study mathematics at the University of Michigan.

Salutatorian: Jacqueline Wilson
GPA: 4.635
Parents: Ed and Cathy Wilson of Grand Rapids:
Parish: Holy Spirit
Achievements: Grand Rapids Rotary Interact Club president, Ronald McDonald House of Western Michigan Youth Advisory Board, senior class president, National Honor Society, tutor, peer minister, student government, soccer, competitive tap dancer.
Plans: To study management, science, technology and values at the University of Notre Dame.

Name: Jack Brooks
GPA: 4.567
Parents: John and Sandy Brooks of Ada
Parish: St. Patrick, Parnell
Achievements: National Honor Society, Quiz Bowl, jazz band, swimming, student government.
Plans: To study aerospace engineering at the University of Notre Dame.

Name: Claire Good-fellow
GPA: 4.536
Parents: Randy and Marla Goodfellow of Belmont
Parish: Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Belmont
Achievements: Peer minister, National Honor Society, liturgical choir, theater, school newspaper editor, Students for Life, art club.
Plans: To study biology at the University of Notre Dame.

Name: Clare Codd-ington
GPA: 4.465
Parents: Scott and Diane Coddington of Grand Rapids
Parish: St. Alphonsus
Achievements: Cross country, track, soccer, peer minister, Eucharistic minister, senior class vice president.
Plans: To study pre-med at Hillsdale College.
Name: Andy Woodruff
GPA: 4.435
Parents: Richard and Julie Woodruff of Rockford
Parish: Our Lady of Consolation, Rockford
Achievements: National Honor Society, tutor, Students for Life, baseball, All A’s captain, Math Challenge, National Merit commended scholar, AP Scholar, Colorado mission trip.
Plans: To student engineering and business management at the University of Notre Dame.

Name: Megan Elizabeth Harkema
GPA: 4.427
Parents: David and Mary Harkema of Rockford
Parish: Our Lady of Consolation, Rockford
Achievements: Varsity basketball for four years, swimming for two years, National Honor Society, Life Force member.
Plans: To study political science and Spanish at Lake Superior State University.
Name: Luke Brechting
GPA: 4.354
Parents: John and Patty Brechting of Sparta
Parish: Holy Trinity, Comstock Park
Achievements: Football, swimming, baseball, National Honor Society, student government, Students for Life.
Plans: To study electrical engineering at Michigan Technological University.

Name: Teresa Brechting
GPA: 4.230
Parents: Martin and Jill Brechting of Comstock Park
Parish: Holy Trinity, Comstock Park
Achievements: Theater, band, robotics, STEM, choir, Life Force member, track, National Honor Society, peer minister.
Plans: To study nursing at Saginaw Valley State University.

Name: Ellen Hackett
GPA: 4.192
Parents: Jeff and Erin Hackett of Plainfield Township
Parish: St. Jude
Achievements: Cross country team captain, track, Haiti Club, student government, peer minister, Eucharistic minister, All A’s captain, National Honor Society co-president.
Plans: To study biology and pre-med at Aquinas College.†

Fortnight for Freedom begins June 21

Editor — Thu, 13 Jun 2013 16:27:31 +0000

committee on Religious Liberty of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) issued a document titled, “Our First, Most Cherished Freedom,” outlining the bishops’ concerns over threats to religious freedom, both at home and abroad. The bishops called for a “Fortnight for Freedom,” a 14-day period of prayer, education and action in support of religious freedom.
That call has been renewed for 2013.
For this two-week period, beginning Friday, June 21, on the vigil of the feasts of St. John Fisher and St. Thomas More, and ending on Thursday, July 4, Independence Day, Catholics across the United States will join in prayer and various opportunities to take action to ensure the integrity of this most cherished freedom.
To open the Fortnight for Freedom in the Diocese of Gaylord, Bishop Bernard A. Hebda will celebrate a special Mass on, June 21 at St. Mary Cathedral in Gaylord. The Mass will begin at 7 p.m. and everyone is encouraged to attend.
“As we approach this year’s Fortnight for Freedom, we continue to face many challenges to our religious liberty,” said Bishop Hebda. “The Department of Health and Human Services Mandate is set to go into effect on Thursday, Aug. 1, and we have yet to reach an acceptable agreement with the administration that allows Catholics and others of faith to abide by the law without violating their conscience and their religious moral values. I am asking every pastor and parishioner to spend time during the Fortnight educating themselves about the issues and praying that the very freedoms upon which our nation was founded are upheld.”
The Vatican News Service reported that religious freedom was among the topics which Pope Francis touched upon during his meeting with Italian President Giorgio Napolitano on Saturday, June 8. The Holy Father noted that 2013 marks the 1,700th anniversary of the Edict of Milan, a document promoting freedom of worship to all people within the Roman Empire and assuring Christians of legal rights.
“In today’s world, religious freedom is more often affirmed than put into practice,” the Pope said, adding “It’s the duty of everyone to defend religious freedom and promote it for all people.”
In their statement on religious liberty, the U.S. bishops wrote, “To be Catholic and American should mean not having to choose one over the other. Our allegiances are distinct, but they need not be contradictory and should instead by complementary. That is the teaching of our Catholic faith, which obliges us to work together with fellow citizens for the common good of all who live in this land.”
Parishes in the Diocese of Gaylord have been provided with resources and materials for use locally and a number of parishes in the diocese are planning special events throughout the Fortnight for Freedom. For a current listing and updates, visit www.dioceseofgaylord.org or “like” the Diocese of Gaylord Facebook page. New events will be shared as they are received. On the website visitors will also find resources designed for personal and family prayer, study and reflection which may be downloaded for free.
Catholics also may take action by expressing their views to their federal representatives and senators as well as by signing up for legislative alerts through the Catholic Advocacy Network of the Michigan Catholic Conference and the Legislative Action Center of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. †

Students surprise Fr. Megge for his birthday

Editor — Thu, 13 Jun 2013 16:21:39 +0000

On Friday, May 31, during the Bishop Baraga Catholic School’s spring musical, first grader Ella Kosanke presented Fr. Paul Megge with a birthday card to celebrate his 72nd birthday. She illustrated the card and all the school’s students signed it. Courtesy photo

Honoring the best, brightest of the class of 2013

Editor — Mon, 10 Jun 2013 12:30:49 +0000

Lansing Catholic

LANSING — The graduating class of 2013 at Lansing Catholic High School will be led through commencement exercises by these top students:

Valedictorian: Emily Bott
Parents: Michell and Mark Bott of Lansing.
Achievements: Member of the National Honor Society, marching band drum major.
Plans: To study comparative cultures and politics at Michigan State University.

Valedictorian: Marie Brake
Parents: Shirlee and David Brake of Grand Ledge.
Achievements: Member of the National Honor Society.
Plans: To study zoology at Miami University.

Valedictorian: Emily Burns
Parents: Jodi and Alan Burns of Dewitt.
Achievements: National Honor Society vice president, National Merit Scholar finalist.
Plans: To study mathematics and Spanish at the University of Notre Dame.

Valedictorian: Sitao Chen
Parents: Junling Jin and Jingchen Chen of Beijing, China.
Achievements: National Honor Society member.
Plans: To study human resources at the University of Michigan.

Valedictorian: Jacob Foy
Parents: Janet and Tim Foy of Holt.
Achievements: National Honor Society member.
Plans: To study biomedical engineering at the University of Michigan.

Valedictorian: Kevin Kosciulek
Parents: Jane and John Kosciulek of East Lansing.
Achievements: National Honor Society Treasurer.
Plans: To study architecture at the Illinois Institute of Technology.

Valedictorian: Luke McVeigh
Parents: Kelly and Brian McVeigh of Holt.
Achievements: Member of the National Honor Society.
Plans: To study biology and pre-medicine at University of Loyola-Chicago.

Valedictorian: Joseph Strasz
Parents: Michele and Timothy Strasz of Williamston.
Achievements: National Honor Society member, National Merit Scholarship finalist.
Plans: To study classical history and language at the University of Notre Dame.

Salutatorian: Samantha Moore
Parents: Diane and Douglas Moore of Lansing.
Achievements: Member of the National Honor Society.
Plans: To study nursing at St. Mary’s University-Notre Dame.

Name: Daniel deLaFé
Parents: Bernadette and Al de La Fé of Dewitt.
Achievements: Member of the National Honor Society and has received a congressional nomination from Congressman Mike Rogers to attend the Air Force Academy’s class of 2017.
Plans: To study business at Colorado State University.

Name: Jane Fineis
Parents: Mary and Jeff Fineis of East Lansing.
Achievements: Member of the National Honor Society, academic all-state in golf.
Plans: To study science in business at the University of Notre Dame.

Name: Emma Frost
Parents: Karen and John Frost of Okemos.
Achievements: Member of the National Honor Society, National Merit Scholarship finalist.
Plans: To study chemistry and Spanish at the University of Notre Dame.

Name: Andrea Maxwell
Parents: Sheila and Christopher Maxwell of Mason.
Achievements: National Honor Society president, National Merit Scholarship finalist.
Plans: To study pre-medicine at the University of Michigan.

Celebrating class of 2013’s best, brightest

Editor — Mon, 10 Jun 2013 12:30:19 +0000

Bay City All Saints

BAY CITY — Leading the class of 2013 from All Saints Central High School through graduation exercises at 3 p.m. Sunday, June 9, at St. Stanislaus Church will be these top students:

Valedictorian: Brooke Jasman
GPA: 4.13
Parents: Tom and Michelle Jasman
Achievements: Highest honors, National Honor Society president, Key Club vice president, senior class treasurer, pep club, student ministry for four years, tennis for four years, volleyball for four years, basketball for four years, dance team for four years, 134 community service hours.
Plans: To study biology at the University of Michigan.

Valedictorian: Danielle Lutz
GPA: 4.13
Parents: William and Debra Lutz
Achievements: Highest honors, National Honor Society, class president for four years, Yellow Ribbon Club, for four years pep club for four years, Key Club for three years, Bay Area Community Foundation Youth Advisory Committee member for four years, volleyball for four years, tennis for four years, basketball for four years, dance team for one year, scholar-athlete award for three years; 260 community service hours.
Plans: To study accounting and law at Delta College and Michigan State University.

Salutatorian: Justin Gasta
GPA: 4.11
Parents: Ann and Chris Gasta
Achievements: Highest honors, National Honor Society, Key Club, Yellow Ribbon Club, Bay Area Community Foundation Youth Advisory Committee member, football for four years, captain of football team, second team all-conference in football, 2013 candidate for Presidential Scholars Program, captain of winning Catholic Quiz Bowl team, 208 community service hours.
Plans: To attend the University of Michigan

Name: Emily Zerod
GPA: 4.10
Parents: Rebecca and Preston Zerod
Achievements: Highest honors, National Honor Society, Yellow Ribbon Club, Key Club, Student Council, tennis for four years, Most Improved Player in tennis as a junior, volleyball for two years, basketball for one year, drama club for four years, 122 community service hours.
Plans: To study psychology and to participate in the Disney College Program at Central Michigan University.

Name: Arlena Clayton
GPA: 4.09
Parents: Tracy and Christine Clayton
Achievements: Highest honors. student council president for two years; National Honor Society, member of youth board of Just for Kids Charitable Foundation, traveled to Africa with the Love For Lukulu missionary group Perry Woodard School of Dance for 15 years, Perry Woodard School of Dance competitive dance team for 10 years, 260 community service hours.
Plans: To major in dance at Western Michigan University.

Name: Elizabeth Gillard
GPA: 4.07
Parents: Rich and Mary Beth Gillard
Achievements: Highest honors, Key Club treasurer, National Honor Society treasurer, tennis for four years, volleyball for four years, basketball for four years, all-conference second team in basketball and tennis, 2012-13 district champion in volleyball and basketball, academic all-conference second team, 154 community service hours.
Plans: To study medical laboratory sciences at Saginaw Valley State University.

Name: Ryan Gysin
GPA: 3.96
Parents: Robert and Michelle Gysin
Achievements: Highest honors, National Honor Society vice president, Key Club president, basketball for four years, tennis for four years, baseball for three years, drama club, 141 community service hours.
Plans: To study aerospace engineering at the University of Michigan.

Name: Christin Seward
GPA: 3.96
Parents: Lew and Cathy Seward
Achievements: Highest honors, National Honor Society, Key Club, drama for four years, Bay City Central varsity choir, dance team for four years, tennis for four years, Super Saint selection by faculty, attended the March For Life three times, Perry Woodard School of Dance for 15 years, singer/cantor with St. Stanislaus Parish youth choir, 180 community service hours.
Plans: To study music at Aquinas College.

Name: Megan Dahlberg
GPA: 3.93
Parents: Greg and Carrie Dahlberg
Achievements: Highest honors, National Honor Society, Yellow Ribbon Club, Perry Woodard School of Dance’s Danscene Competitive Edge team for 14 years, member of Just For Kids Charitable Foundation Youth Board, 168 community service hours.
Plans: To study biology/pre-med at Alma College.

Name: Katie Klapish
GPA: 3.92
Parents: John and Karen Klapish
Achievements: Highest honors; National Honor Society, student council, Yellow Ribbon Club for four years, pep club for four years, volleyball for four years, basketball for four years, Daughters of the American Revolution Good Citizen Award, second team all-conference and honorable mention all-state in volleyball, honorable mention all-conference in basketball, scholar-athlete award for four years, 188 community service hours.
Plans: NA.

Honoring the best, brightest of the class of 2013

Editor — Mon, 10 Jun 2013 12:29:38 +0000

Flint Powers

FLINT — Leading the graduating class of 2013 through commencement exercise at Fr. Luke M. Powers Catholic High School this spring are these top students:

Valedictorian: Richard (Alec) Cramer
Parents: Rich and Katie Cramer of Grand Blanc
GPA: 4.32
Awards/Achievements/Activities: National Honor Society officer, student government representative in grades 9 and 10, Student Service Award, Kairos student leader, varsity hockey, varsity golf, academic all-league in hockey and golf, honorable mention all-league in golf.
Plans: To attend the University of Notre Dame.

Valedictorian: Connor Szostak
Parents: Robert and Christine Szostak of Grand Blanc
GPA: 4.32
Awards/Achievements/Activities: AP scholar with distinction, National Honor Society, American Red Cross blood drive coordinator in grade 11, Kairos leader, Model United Nations delegate, Student Service Award, varsity cross country, track, theater for four years, St. Michael’s Book Award, two number-one ratings at Solo and Ensemble in 2012, first place in talent show in grade 11, seat on vestry at St. Jude Church, Purple and Gold Scholarship from University of Washington, Regents Merit Scholarship from University of Michigan, Eliot Scholarship from Washington University, All Duke Grant Trinity from Duke University.
Plans: To study statistics at Yale University.

Valedictorian: Eileen Thoma
Parents: Henry and Mary Jo Thoma of Flushing
GPA: 4.32
Awards/Achievements/Activities: Cross country for four years, track for three years, junior varsity soccer for two years, bowling for three years, theater for years, marching band, National Honor Society, Quiz Bowl for three years and captain 2012-13, Model United Nations for two years, Rotary Interact for two years, Student Service Award, National Merit Commended Scholar, honorable mention 2011 Powers art show, first place drawing 2012 Powers art show, first place sculpture 2012 Powers art show, Bausch and Lomb Honorary Science Award, academic letter, academic all-league cross country for four years, academic all-league in bowling for three years, academic all-league in track. NEDT certificate. Hillsdale Merit Scholarship Award. Alma Trustee Honors Scholarship. Alma Alumni Award.
Plans: To attend Hillsdale College.

Salutatiorian: Michael Glubzinski
Parents: Don and Nancy Glubzinski of Flushing
GPA: 4.31
Awards/Achievements/Activities: National Honor Society, Rotary High School Achievement Award, Student Service Award, varsity soccer, academic all-league in soccer, all-district soccer team grade 10, Schola Cantorum grade 11, Eucharistic minister, Michigan Scholar Scholarship from University of Michigan-Flint.
Plans: To attend the University of Michigan.

Salutatorian: Timothy Michael Kennedy
Parents: Gerald and Theresa Kennedy of Lapeer
GPA: 4.31
Awards/Achievements/Activities: National Honor Society co-vice president, varsity cross country for four years, varsity track for four years, University of Michigan- Scholar Award, theater for four years, student government representative for three years, lector, Eucharistic minister, piano accompanist at Powers and Holy Redeemer Parish, number one rating Solo and Ensemble in 2012-13, number one rating at Schola Solo and Ensemble in 2012-13, Rotary Interact in 2012-13, third place in talent show in 2012.
Plans: To study mechanical engineering and piano at the University of Michigan-Flint.

Name: Lindsay Hall
Parents: Jim and Jennifer Hall of Grand Blanc
GPA: 4.28
Awards/Achievements/Activities: National Honor Society president and junior representative, Kairos leader, varsity cross country for four years and team captain, varsity track for four years, all-state track, school record-holder in 3200-meter relay in track, theater for three years, Presidential Scholarship from Hope College, Student Service Award in grades 9-10, Eucharistic minister.
Plans: To study psychology and English at Hope College.

Name: Matthew LeDuc
Parents: Michael and Susan LeDuc of Fenton
GPA: 4.25
Awards/Achievements/Activities: Kettering University Technology Award, captain of cross country and track teams, Quiz Bowl, theater, altar server at St. John the Evangelist Parish in Fenton, Rensselaer Polytechnic Medal, Model United Nations, Boys State participant, MYLEAD representative.
Plans: To study physics and math at the University of Michigan.

Name: Meggie-Rose Manley
Parents: Michael and Ann-Margret Manley of Fenton
GPA: 4.24
Awards/Achievements/Activities: National Honor Society, Kairos leader, NEDT certificate, academic all-league in golf and cheerleading, academic all-league in softball for three years, NFCA Academic All-American in softball, all-district in softball, softball captain in 2013, academic letter for three years, Model United Nations delegate, Student of the Month, Student Service Award, Eucharistic minister, American Red Cross blood drive coordinator.
Plans: To attend the University of Michigan.

Name: Josee’ Muldrew
Parents: Ken Muldrew of Flint and the late Deloris Muldrew
GPA: 4.24
Awards/Achievements/Activities: Daughters of the American Revolution Good Citizen Award, Kettering Technology Award, academic letter, varsity letter, National Honor Society, varsity cheerleader, four-year marching band award, most improved band award 2010, Great Spirit Award, orchestra, Student of the Month in October. All Links Academic Scholarship, Flint Club of the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women Youth Achievement Scholarship, attended National Student Leadership Conference, Biotechnology Award, Poetic Power contest winner, Bruce Bradley Award, Kairos leader.
Plans: To study biomedical engineering at either Purdue University or Spelman College.

Name: Kayla Dziadzio
Parents: Doug and Jackie Dziadzio of Fenton
GPA: 4.22
Awards/Achievements/Activities: Kairos leader, academic all-league in swimming, academic all-league in bowling, honorable mention all-league in bowling, student government vice president, National Honor Society, yearbook editor.
Plans: To study journalism at Kalamazoo College.

Name: Angela Lee
Parents: Byeongseon Simon Lee and Myunghee Monico Mo of Grand Blanc
GPA: 4.21
Awards/Achievements/Activities: 30/30 superior number one rating in vocal solo at Solo and Ensemble, superior number one rating vocal duet at Solo and Ensemble, chancel choir, Schola Cantorum, marching and concert bands, theater, varsity softball, Quiz Bowl, varsity tennis, student government representative, senator, chair of three committees and secretary of the senate at Girls State in 2012, second place at Eastern Michigan University colorguard competition in 2012, colorguard captain, Kairos leader, National Honor Society co-vice president, 2012 homecoming queen, John J. McIlduff Scholarship Award, Elizabeth Hallman Courage Scholarship Award, St. Michael’s College Book Award for Academic Achievement with Social Conscience in 2011, Michigan State University Honors College, MSU College of Music Annual Merit Scholarship, MSU Alumni Distinguished Scholarship Competition participant, Detroit CATCH Outstanding High School Student nominee in performing arts.
Plans: To study music education at Michigan State University.

Name: Ethan Wiskur
Parents: Michael and Lori Wiskur of Clio
GPA: 4.19
Awards/Achievements/Activities: National Honor Society, all-state baseball in 2012, academic all-state in baseball and football, Flint Journal Player of the Year in 2012, all-conference, all-district, all-region in baseball 2010-12, second team all-conference in basketball, all-conference football in 2011, Eucharistic minister, Kairos leader, perfect attendance 2011-12, academic letter, honor roll, Kiwanis Student-Athlete of the Month.
Plans: To study pre-dental at Hillsdale College.

Celebrating class of 2013’s best, brightest

Editor — Mon, 10 Jun 2013 12:29:26 +0000

Mount Pleasant Sacred Heart

MOUNT PLEASANT — Leading the graduating class of 2013 through commencement exercises at Sacred Heart Academy are these top students:

Valedictorian: Shubha Vedula
Parents: Ramesh and Vandana Vedula
GPA: 4.0
Achievements: Varsity cross country, track and golf; first Indian female to make it to the top 20 females on “American Idol;” helped accumulate $35,000 for SHA arts program through competing in the Isabella County Talent Show; grades 9-12 Honor Roll; Model United Nations first team all-conference for three years; Science Olympiad regional champion; first place Voice of Democracy scholar.
Plans: To take a year to pursue music before attending the University of Chicago.

Salutatorian: Kathleen Guytingco
Parents: Ricardo Guytingco and Maria Laynes
GPA: 3.992
Achievements: Varsity cross country and track; American Chemistry Society’s Award of Excellence recipient; Mid-State Athletic Conference Quiz Bowl two-time MVP; first team all-conference Model United Nations; 2010 track state runner-up in 3200-meter relay; academic all-state cross country in 2010; winner of Isabella County Talent Show in 2010; first team all-conference in cross country; National Honor Society member.
Plans: To study health science or international relations at the University of Michigan.

Name: Natalie Helene Zimmerman
GPA: 3.988
Parents: Richard Deane Zimmerman Jr. and Florence Marjorie Moons
Achievements: Fifth-place medal at the Science Olympiad state finals in 2010; Division 1 rating at Solo and Ensemble in 2013; Daughter of the American Revolution Citizen of the Year 2013; student senate executive board secretary 2011-2013; honored by the American Chemical Society for excellence in chemistry 2012; National Honor Society member.
Plans: To study pre-veterinary science at the University of Michigan.

Name: Parul Vashishta
Parents: Ashok and Nisha Vashishta
GPA: 3.956
Achievements: Winning a scholarship from the University of Michigan Regents; state finalist in Science Olympiad for four years and placing fifth in the green generation event; graduate of the Odissi School of Dance; National Honor Society member.
Plans: To study dentistry at the University of Michigan.

Name: Kelly Starry
Parents: Greg and Maureen Starry
GPA: 3.9
Achievements: Rotary Citizen of the Month; state semifinals in softball; state quarterfinals in basketball; won regional Science Olympiad medals; Clarence Brehm Award recipient; Society of Women Engineers member; National Honor Society member.
Plans: To study engineering at the University of Michigan.

Name: Shaun Collin
Parents: Dennis Collin and Lisa Salminen
GPA: 3.871
Achievements: Varsity cross country and track; academic all-state in cross country; National Honor Society member; Model United Nations, Quiz Bowl and Science Olympiad teams.
Plans: To study science at Grand Valley State University.

Name: Leah Hauck
Parents: Bill and Dana Hauck
GPA: 3.867
Achievements: National Honor Society vice president; Rotary Citizen of the Month; completed 160 hours of community service.
Plans: To study nursing at Michigan State University.

Name: Margaret Oblinger
Parents: Don and Carolyn Oblinger
GPA: 3.769
Achievements: Varsity cross country and track; all-state freshman year in the 400-meter relay; National Honor Society member; Helped accumulate $35,000 for SHA arts program through competing in the Isabella County Talent Show.
Plans: To major in pre-medicine at Michigan State University.

Name: Sheridan Ervin
Parents: Suzie Fountain-Ervin and Randy Ervin
GPA: 3.749
Achievements: Received the Laker Presidential Scholarship to Mid-Michigan Community College; honor roll for four years; varsity volleyball and softball; Rotary Citizen of the Month; National Honor Society member.
Plans: To attend Mid-Michigan Community College and to major in illustration after transfer to Kendall College of Art and Design.

Name: Erica Hansen
Parents: Todd and Kelly Hansen
GPA: 3.742
Achievements: Varsity basketball, softball, and volleyball; academic all-State; honorable mention all-state in basketball; second all-time leading scorer in SHA girl’s basketball history; twice state quarterfinalist in basketball.
Plans: To study health sciences at Alma College.