March/April 2021
Finding
a Home in
the Coast Guard Business Spotlight
Turtle Creek Casino Hero Highlight
April Caverly Many children view their mom as their hero, but for the children of decorated military member April Caverly, it couldn’t be a more accurate description.
TABLE OF CONTENTS 12 March/April 2020
14 20 27
06
Editor’s Note
08
VA Update - Happy New Year
09
LOOKING BACK TO RAWHIDE
10
Hero Highlight April Caverly
14
Veteran Spotlight Jill Wolfe
18
Featured Veteran Marcia Smith
21
How the MVAA shows dedication to veterans every day
22
Finding a Home in the Coast Guard
26
Behind The Brand Turtle Creek Casino
29
Helping Women and Children… MI Freedom Center Style
32
Blueberry Protein Pancakes
34
Toys for Tots Honors Volunteers with Star Awards
PROUD TO SUPPORT MILITARY AND VETERAN FAMILIES
HOMEOWNERSHIP HOME REPAIR for
VETERANS Contact Kathleen English 231-941-4663 x321 kenglish@HabitatGTR.org Let our Schmidt family help guide you and your family through the purchase of buying or selling your home. Offering our team of experienced agents. Military Rewards is a Cash Back* benefits program. SIGN UP | DISCOVER | CONNECT
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New Year from our
GATHER Family to yours!
4 – GATHER Veterans
Real Estate for Real Heroes Ben
illiams REALTOR
PUBLISHER
GATHER Media LLC Hannah Bouwmeester - Owner Traverse City, MI 49696, (231) 492-7870
EDITOR
PAMELA MCCORMICK
Contributing Photographer
Great Lakes Images
®
SCHMIDT Realtors
522 E. Front St., Traverse City, MI 231-929-2300 Office
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GRAPHIC DESIGNER ADVERTISING SUBSCRIPTIONS
Amanda Renkiewicz Brad Giglio Dr. Chris Moran Gaurav Roy Hannah Bouwmeester Jeffrey Beebe John Russell John Wemlinger Kierstin Gunsberg Michael Kent Michael W. Roof Pete Lathrop Tom Dalluge Jayden Designs hannah@gatherveterans.com Visit gatherveterans.com/ subscribe-today to subscribe. Subscription Rates: One Year, 6 issues, $19.95. Allow six weeks for first issue to be received.
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Copyright @2020 GATHER Media LLC. All rights reserved. Individual works also copyrighted by their originators. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited without prior written permission. We do not assume any liability for errors or omissions. GATHER Media LLC does not necessarily endorse any of the attractions, products or services contained within.
GATHER Veterans – 5
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Editor’s Note
F
or Americans, a deceptively simple word encapsulates the sacrifices of the individuals who serve in our nation’s military. HERO This issue is filled with stories about them and their children. But, full disclosure: every other issue of “Gather Veterans” features our military heroes. Individuals who serve in the military pledge to support the Constitution. They do so to help make our country better and its citizens safer. The time, labor, sweat, and tears they invest in are priceless. HERO How can a simple word encapsulate the sacrifices of service-people for our country and the world? Like the human soul, there are many layers to each person, each experience, each HERO. Stories from each military member continue that LEGACY of heroism and HONOR.
their military duties with strength, compassion, heart, and humility. It’s the serviceperson’s PASSION for service and country wherein our real power lies. Women are everywhere in formerly maledominated jobs - as college football kickers, pilots, leaders, and now as Vice President of the United States. In this world of change, whatever your political preference, remember how far we have come as a nation, and, according to Amanda Gorman, the nation’s first National Youth Poet Laureate, how bright is the future of our country. “When day comes, we step out of the shade, aflame and unafraid. The new dawn blooms as we free it. For there is always light if only we’re brave enough to see it, if only we’re brave enough to be it.” Let’s unite in passion for America and the veterans who served and serve to keep our FREEDOM. God Bless America.
HERO In this issue are several stories of incredible women who handled
Pamela McCormick Editor
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VA Update By Michael Roof
Director, Dept. of Veteran Affairs, Grand Traverse County
N
ow, a couple of months into 2021, and COVID-19 still continues to affect our country and its economy. Many people are calling our office daily looking for the opportunity to get the vaccine. While we are not a VA medical center, we want to help get the correct information to help Veterans and their families. Michigan’s goal is to vaccinate 70% of people age 16 years of age and older by the end of 2021. This is being done in a stepped Phase approach based on CDC guidelines. • Risk of becoming infected with the virus • Risk of severe illness and death from COVID-19 • Risk of spreading the virus to others • Risk of harm to society if essential workers, including healthcare personnel, are unable to work. Veterans wanting a vaccine can get one through any VA medical center but MUST be enrolled in VA healthcare. If you are
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not enrolled in VA Healthcare, you can do so through various options: • Visit www.va.gov to apply online • Visit a County Veterans Service Officer to apply ( find one at www. michiganveterans.com) • Contact VA eligibility at 1-800406-5143 Ext. 13120 or 13121 If you are already enrolled in VA healthcare, you should wait until your medical team calls you to schedule an appointment. The VA will contact you once
they reach the phase that is appropriate to your situation. In times like this, let’s all practice a lot of grace and patience with others around us. COVID is reality, and some have succumbed to the effects of this illness. Be sensitive to those around who may have been directly affected. The country has been through many changes in the last six months, and we need to come together to rebuild. Respectfully, Michael
LOOKING BACK
TO RAWHIDE By Pete Lathrop
Every new year brings with it the anticipation of what’s to come, but also a desire to look back and reminisce about the good times.
order and made arrangements for Nannie to fly-in instead of enduring the grueling, three-lake portage to the longhouse.
W
e all do our share of reflecting on past events, mostly scrolling through pictures and social media posts. We whittle down the most important and memorable times to just a handful of moments that seem brighter and more wonderful in our mind’s eye than what is on your phone or hanging on the wall. As I write this article, I’m looking at a picture that is impossible to reenact or duplicate. Several in that photo are no longer with us. It is a framed picture of my newlywed wife and I, along with my friends and family, on the shore of a remote Canadian lake
called Rawhide. Although this picture was taken over 30 years ago, its essence of spontaneity makes the moment come alive again. It was the last time my grandmother, “Nannie,” went to Rawhide Lake’s old longhouse, a tradition in our family since the 1930s. Stepping into the old cabin was like traveling back to a time long ago. Nothing ever changed except an occasional coat of orange paint on the exterior. Taking the time to plan out that trip wasn’t my responsibility back then. My father worked out all the details. He made sure the 6-horse boat motor was tuned and ready. He saw to it that all the rods and reels in working
We had glorious weather, and the fishing was good. Still, as with all remote wilderness settings in the midst of summer, there were the typical inconveniences of bugs, bathing in ice-cold water, and a smelly outhouse. Even a pesky bear roaming close to the longhouse added to the ambiance. Oddly enough, I wouldn’t call them inconveniences; I’d rather call these fortuitous accents of the outdoors. I appreciate the effort and sacrifice that my father made to make this memory unforgettable. He knew from experience the value of getting away from everyday life as his father planned trips like this throughout his childhood and as a young man. Since then, my wife and I have taken our children on many Canadian wilderness excursions, making an indelible impression in their lives. Taking the time to save, plan, prepare, and follow through with a family trip will bring precious memories that do more than cause you to reminisce. Trips like these bring families closer together. And that’s priceless.
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Hero Highlight
April Caverly By Amanda Renkiewicz Many children view their mom as their hero, but for the children of decorated military member April Caverly, it couldn’t be a more accurate description. April’s husband, Chris, son Jackson, and daughter Abigail have supported April during her recent thirteen-month deployment to Bahrain and had to adapt to their own challenges during the pandemic simultaneously.
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The pandemic had a huge impact on my family, in addition to me being overseas “The pandemic had a huge impact on my family, in addition to me being overseas,” April explained. “The schools and daycares closed down, leaving no options for childcare for the kids. Chris had to become a stay-at-home parent, and in addition to being a dad, he also assumed the roles of mom and teacher. The virtual learning was off to a rocky start as the schools had to navigate through the new programs along with the families and students, working out all the bugs along the way. It was confusing for the kids to be pulled away from their friends and teachers, and on top of that, being told they can’t go to their favorite restaurants, no movie theaters, or the children’s museum. Holidays and birthdays were celebrated differently. It was hard for me to watch them go through this via FaceTime and not be able to help with much of anything at all.” April was assigned to the Coast Guard Cutter MONOMOY as an independent
duty Operations Specialist. MONOMOY is one of six 110’ Island Class Patrol Boats the Coast Guard has set to Patrol Forces Southwest Asia (PATFORSWA), conducting maritime safety and security patrols of the Arabian Gulf, ensuring the safe passage of high-value assets through international and Iranian waters. “It was definitely not how I imagined the year would go,” April said. “It started with the heightened tensions with Iran in January 2020, and as that started to simmer down, my father passed away mid-February. I returned home quickly, but as soon as I got back to Bahrain, COVID-19 hit in full force. They shut down travel in/out of the country. The island shut down the same as the states did, everything was closed, and we weren’t allowed to have cookouts or gatherings. It made it more difficult to get through the year when we couldn’t have any type of morale events or celebrate the holidays together with our crew.”
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Despite the challenges of her deployment and the unprecedented chaos of 2020, April’s optimism shines through. Her dedication to her family and their active lifestyle showcases a love of togetherness. “My family enjoys being outdoors, spending time at the lake in the summer swimming, boating, fishing, and making memories! I enjoy riding motorcycles, and we have started the kids pretty young on
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four-wheelers. My daughter has taken an interest in cooking and baking since I’ve been home, so we have spent a lot of time in the kitchen trying out new recipes. I enjoy running and participating in the fun 5k events, so hopefully, those can resume soon!” April added. Her career in the Coast Guard allowed her to serve her country while being able to travel and seek new experiences. “I’ve met so many great people and have made lifelong friendships in every place I’ve been stationed,” April shared. “We take care of our people, and everyone looks out for one another. Air Station Traverse City has been my favorite unit. I’ve spent a lot of time there and have seen it through several commands, and it has continued to be a great place to work.”
Along with “Supermom and Wife” (which may not be an official award but is still accurate), April’s list of medals include: »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »»
Coast Guard Commendation Medal Sea Service Ribbon Overseas Service Ribbon Global War on Terrorism Medal Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal Coast Guard Achievement Medal x2 Coast Guard Unit Commendation Ribbon Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation Ribbon Coast Guard Meritorious Team Commendation Ribbon Coast Guard Commandant’s Letter of Commendation Ribbon x2 Humanitarian Service Medal Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal Coast Guard Good Conduct Medal x4 National Defense Service Medal Coast Guard Pistol Sharpshooter Ribbon Coast Guard Rifle Marksman Ribbon
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Veteran Spotlight
Jill Wolfe By Amanda Renkiewicz
G
rand Valley State University has named its first Military and Veteran Resource Manager! Meet Jill Wolfe, a Laker Alumna, faculty member, and former member of the US Army. GATHER Veterans interviewed Jill about her experience at the prestigious Midwestern school and the outstanding programs they offer.
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When did you first become interested in the military? I wasn’t even remotely interested in the military until I came home for Thanksgiving break my freshman year of college and my parents told me they wouldn’t pay my tuition the next semester unless I got a job. Not an hour later, a recruiter called and asked, “How would you like $30,000 for college?” He had impeccable timing! I said, “Tell me more!” - the rest was history. How has your experience been in your new role? My time as GVSU’s first-ever Military and Veteran Resource Manager has been phenomenal. From the food service staff to the students and faculty to President Mantella, the support from everyone at every level has been nothing short of “all-in”. Plus, the local veteran community, places like the VFW Post 311, American Legion Post 356, and individuals working for the local nonprofits and county governments have shown tremendous heart and support for the work I do. I love everything about this community. What are some of the challenges veterans at GVSU face, and how is your role helping move them forward as students? For many veterans, the transition from a military environment where almost everything is provided and structured for you — your job, where you live, how you dress, who you hang out with — to an environment where everything is pretty much up to you, is really hard. I know my own experience as a student vet returning to college was so frustrating — I felt like none of my fellow students really cared about school or anything except partying (this wasn’t exactly true, but it’s what it felt like). I didn’t know how to talk to my classmates without sounding like a know-it-all. I had trouble finding work near campus, finding childcare for my toddler, and even figuring out what major I wanted to pursue.
Student veterans need community. Many people don’t realize how critical it is that these students feel like they belong at the university, that there are people here who care about them and are invested in their success. It’s so easy to say, “This is stupid, I quit,” when the going gets hard. I know I almost did. You need people around you, including your own family, to cheer you on. That’s probably my most significant role at Grand Valley. I want these students to know that there’s someone who genuinely cares about them, wants to connect them with something bigger than themselves, and has resources available to help them with whatever challenges they face.
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What are you most proud of from the Laker community? I’m proud of how Grand Valley takes everything great about the Midwest — the friendliness, the sense of community, the willingness to stop whatever it is you’re doing and help out a stranger — but leaves behind the close-mindedness and intolerance that, unfortunately, the Midwest is also known for. It creates an environment that truly feels welcoming. Plus, everyone here, including faculty, staff, and administrators, is so smart!
It’s that unique combination: down-home warmth, combined with a serious dedication to the mission of providing a world-class education. It’s not necessarily specific to vets, but it’s why I came back to GVSU after I served, it’s why my own kids choose to go to school here, and it’s why I’m so proud to be an employee today. Tell us about Grand Valley’s PAVE program. Peer Advisors for Veteran Education (PAVE) is a peer
Some of my favorite people in the world are the female veterans I met in various veteran groups.
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support program that connects incoming GVSU student veterans with other student veterans trained as Peer Advisors. These volunteer “mentors” — who honestly are my heroes and epitomize everything I love about student veterans — help new veteran students navigate college life. They address challenges they may face, refer them to appropriate resources on and off-campus, and provide ongoing support. The PAVE program gives new student veterans a resource – a vet student just like you — who can give you the same kind of support your platoon gave you back when you served. What do you recommend for veterans who suffer from PTSD?
First, connect with other veterans — they’re the only ones that truly understand what it is like to experience. I recommend this for all veterans! Some of my favorite people in the world are the female veterans I met in various veteran groups. Then educate yourself about what trauma actually is — you don’t have to have experienced combat or rape to be suffering from the effects of PTSD. I know a student who, as a kid, had her trailer broken into (she wasn’t home at the time) and still has anxiety and trouble sleeping because of it.
How can interested Veterans get in touch with GVSU about programs? Student veterans are some of our most successful students! In fact: • Veterans receive degrees and/or certifications at a rate of 72% compared to 66% of their peers. (Institute for Veterans and Military Families) • Veterans are 160% more likely than nonveterans to have a graduate degree or higher. (LinkedIn)
• Veteran students’ average GPA is 3.34, compared to 2.94 for nonveteran students. (Institute for Veterans and Military Families) Visit us at GVSU.edu/veterans, or anyone can reach out to me at wolfeji@gvsu.edu. I always love collaborations!
Next, you have to get help. Reach out to a trusted friend, or in Michigan, the 24-hour Vet Center hotline 877-9278387 (877-WAR-VETS) is a great starting point for anything veteran-related. Veterans don’t generally love asking others for help, but if you want to reach your goals — whether that’s getting your degree or having a good relationship with your kids — it’s the only way forward. Nobody accomplishes great things by themselves. Finally, research Post Traumatic Growth and see if there’s something there that resonates with you. I’m a big proponent of Post-Traumatic Growth, the idea that you can have experienced something difficult or traumatic but then learn and grow from it and come out the other side with more resilience and compassion.
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Featured Veteran
Marcia Smith By Amanda Renkiewicz
“Well-behaved women seldom make history” Laurel Thatcher Ulrich
Ashlyn, Kevin, Jackson, Tiffany, Madisen and Cooper.
A
s her favorite quote above proves, our Veteran Spotlight Marcia Smith is a force to be reckoned with! Marci enlisted in the Air Force at just 18 years old in 1977. She spent the following 16 years at duty stations including Bitburg AB, Germany, Eglin AFB, FL, Kadena AB, Okinawa, Holloman AFB, NM, and Tyndall AFB, FL. She completed her degree in Aeronautics, attended Officer Training School, served as a commissioned officer in Space and Missiles, and then finished her service at the Pentagon on staff for the Chief of Staff of the Air Force. “I had a very interesting, challenging, and enjoyable career. The best and unexpected benefit was the travel and living overseas,” Marci explains. “I was one of 4 Air Force Missile officers invited to tour a Russian Strategic Air Force base in Kozelsk, Russia. We spent a week with our hosts, and it was one of the highlights of my career. They were professional, personable, and proud to show us their country. We met with local civilians and toured a Russian missile silo. My husband (a retired Chief Master Sergeant), our Aussiedoodle Winston, and I now split our time between Arizona and Michigan!”
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Travel, the military, and helping others are a theme that resonates through Marci’s life and family. Her father was a WWII/Korean War veteran, and she loved his stories of travel, camaraderie, and patriotism. Her husband Fred served in Vietnam, and his family has a great legacy of serving in the Air Force. Fred’s son, Eric, is a retired Master Sergeant, and Eric’s wife Sharon served for ten years as Security Forces and Military Working Dog Handler. His daughter, Mary, and her family live in North Carolina, where she practices as a Doctor of Immunology and does fascinating work with cancer research and drug development. When asked about her favorite memories abroad, Marci replied, “I would need an entire book! Living overseas was absolutely the best part of my career. I lived in Germany, Japan, and Ukraine. I lived ‘on the economy’ - which was off base. I was stationed in Germany during the first Gulf
War in 1991, and there were often threats against military members because of our deployments to the war zone,” she recalls. “We lived in a tiny village and were the only Americans. One day, we were at our local gasthaus, and the owner came over and told us the village was keeping an eye on our house for us while we were
at work to make sure no one was coming around that didn’t belong. To us, that meant they thought of us as part of the village, and it was heartwarming to know that we had friends so far from home.” Marci’s philanthropic endeavors have spanned over many years. From 2009-2012, she was a Board
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for the Northwestern Michigan Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) headquartered in Traverse City. Currently, she’s the Membership Chair for the Luke Chapter MOAA in Goodyear, AZ. MOAA is the nation’s largest and most influential association of military officers. It is an independent, nonprofit, politically nonpartisan organization with a mission of advocating for all members of the uniformed services to ensure they and their families receive the benefits they deserve. Member with Project Sanctuary, which provides a wellness retreat in a camp-like environment at no cost to a service member and their family. The family can use the space to reconnect and re-energize after deployment(s). In 2017, she was a founding member and Membership Chair
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Marci sees great hope and inspiration through the young men and women who have a desire to serve. “As an instructor at the Air Force Academy, it was a great honor and privilege to spend my time in the classroom with these outstanding people. I felt the same when a new airman would be assigned to our unit
and showed an eagerness and desire to be part of the team. They brought a new perspective and a new way of looking at old problems that kept the old, crusty veterans on our toes. Serving in today’s military has so many challenges that I didn’t experience, so I have a great deal of respect for these men and women, and I hope our country recognizes the sacrifices they make for the safety and security of our nation.” With a life of stepping outside of the box, it’s no surprise that Marci’s advice is to get out of one’s comfort zone and be assertive. “Set a goal and make it happen. Take chances. Be memorable,” she recommends. And if that goes a little sideways, have no fear, since her second favorite cheeky quote is, “It’s always easier to ask for forgiveness than permission”.
How the MVAA shows dedication to veterans every day By Zaneta Adams, Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency Director
T
his month I’d like to focus on our recent interaction with Gulf War veteran Michael Kuta – an interaction that genuinely reflects what the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency is all about. Early this year, Kuta was working security at music festivals across the country and loving his job. Then, on March 10, the coronavirus pandemic shut down public gatherings and put the former active duty Marine out of the position he had held for three years.
on Monday, July 27. Two days later, on Wednesday, July 29, Kuta had a managerial job, with benefits, as a road supervisor for Detroit-based City Shield Security Services. “My first shift was that Friday,” Kuta tells us. “It was a good week.”
The 51-year-old Southfield man, armed with a communications degree from the University of Michigan-Dearborn and years of experience in marketing and security, tried unsuccessfully for more than four months to find a good job with benefits in the pandemic-ravaged economy.
Kuta’s “good week” highlights what the MVAA is all about. As the state-run coordinating agency for Michigan’s 550,000 veterans and their families, the MVAA often gets confused with the federal VA. But unlike the VA, the MVAA does not directly provide veteran benefits. Instead, the agency was set up by state leaders in 2013 as a one-stop resource center to help veterans navigate the labyrinth of veteran-centric organizations and ultimately get connected to benefits they earned for their service.
Feeling somewhat desperate, and with his unemployment benefits running out, Kuta called the MVAA’s 1-800-MICH-VET hotline
We can’t always help get a veteran a job in two days. Still, we promise to do our best to help every veteran with their needs – whether
that’s in employment, education, health care, disability benefits, emergency assistance, or other qualify-of-life areas. From the technicians who handle the calls to our hotline, to the analysts who work with employers, universities, health care providers, and other organizations, to the accredited Veteran Service Officers who help veterans file for benefits, our entire team is committed to serving veterans and their families. Perhaps Dave Dunckel, the MVAA analyst who worked with Kuta and City Shield, puts it best: “Saying you support veterans is one thing, but actually supporting veterans is something completely different. Our agency shows this dedication to veterans every day. The teamwork we have within the MVAA and the relationships we’ve built around the state is testament to this mission.” It all starts with a call to 1-800-MICH-VET.
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Finding a Home in
the Coast Guard By Mike Kent
I
n May 2007, meteorologists were keeping an eye on a cold front about to hit the east coast shoreline. Subtropical storm Andrea was bringing hurricane-force winds and producing 34-foot waves. One boat with three people onboard was facing the brunt of the storm off North Carolina. The boat was about to be destroyed. Fortunately for the panicked passengers, Commander Andy Clayton was piloting a Coast Guard chopper in the area. The
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storm claimed several lives that day, but not the three rescued by Clayton and his crew. Once safely on land, a survivor gave Commander Clayton a soaking wet hug and heartfelt thank you for the massive lifesaving rescue. A week later, Clayton received a six-pack of ginger beer and four bottles of Gosling’s Black Seal Rum — the ingredients for a drink appropriately called The Dark And Stormy.
Proud of being a military spouse. I love everything about the military. I have a much more open mind now than when I was younger. Nearly 14-years later, Commander Clayton still remembers the incident vividly. It’s why he joined the Coast Guard as a pilot. “You get to make a difference in people’s lives,” Clayton says. His Coast Guard career spans 18-years, and he is now the Executive Officer at Air Station Traverse City. Over that time, the Coast Guard has sent Clayton packing to Pensacola, Florida, Sitka and Homer, Alaska, Mobile, Alabama, Elizabeth City, North Carolina, Washington DC, and his most recent northern Michigan assignment. He brought his wife of 12-years Danielle and now his two daughters, 11-year old Kyleigh and 9-year old Madi, through most of those travels. The moves haven’t always been easy. But this latest move has had the family finding a home in a Coast Guard City. It’s a title given to only a handful of communities that warmly open their doors to Coasties. “It was a different feel,” Clayton said. “People just really like the Coast Guard up here.” Danielle experienced the same welcome. She is currently co-principal at Old Mission Peninsula School. “This is my favorite job,” said Danielle. “I’m having the time of my life.”
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The girls immediately got involved in horseback riding, sailing, hockey, Norte bike camp, and school activities. They both light up when they talk about making Traverse City their home. The Claytons said being a Coast Guard family teaches their kids resiliency. “I’m excited to see the impact they are going to make because of what they have seen,” said Danielle. Those experiences include catching a King Salmon in Alaska and getting a firsthand look at the President. Like most couples, Andy and Danielle do a lot of juggling with their responsibilities. It becomes a delicate balancing act between the kids, being a school principal, and the responsibilities of Coast Guard command. Danielle said the same resiliency they see in the kids. “Resiliency has made me a better person,” said Danielle. Each new assignment challenges that resiliency. While they have friends all around the country who at times seem as close as blood relatives, each new location means creating a new support group. “It’s like speed dating new friends everywhere you go,” said Danielle. Despite the transient challenges, they both see the tremendous rewards. “You get to help people better themselves or find out what’s happening with their career,” said Andy. Danielle shares the reward. “I’m proud of my husband,” Danielle said. “Proud of being a military spouse. I love everything about the military. I have a much more open mind now than when I was younger.” The Claytons don’t look forward to leaving northern Michigan, but when it comes time to pack, they will be ready. They live the U.S. Coast Guard motto: Semper Paratus — Always Ready.
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Behind The Brand
Turtle Creek Casino By Amanda Renkiewicz
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I
t’s one of the area’s top places to play and stay, and it’s a major supporter of the veteran community: the thrilling Turtle Creek Casino & Hotel. The casino provides an impressive 56,000 square foot space, a full-service sportsbook, contemporary accommodations, and endless dining options, from a high-end steakhouse to a casual buffet. The perfect northern Michigan getaway recently worked with Veterans in Crisis for a donation to their organization, presenting a check for over $4,000. Their donation will help Northern Michigan veterans who have been honorably or medically discharged with financial, mental health,
and job support programs. “Veterans in Crisis is a veteranled group that rapidly serves those who have honorably served us. The money will be used as a “hand up” for needs such as rent assistance, medical bills, vehicle repairs, and more, for our veterans living in the 21-county area of Northern Michigan and the Eastern U.P.,” said Founding Board Member Steven Ezell, who accepted the check on behalf of Veterans in Crisis. The funds were raised through the Cash In On Kindness collection initiative at both Turtle Creek and Leelanau Sands casinos, with guests donating their change for a change.
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The Cash In On Kindness program began in February of 2020 with a collection for the American Heart Association, and was placed on hold due to the casinos closure due to COVID-19. The program was reinstated to assist with the community needs, including The Groundwork Center for Resilient Communities, who received $3,866.51 to provide roughly 2,000 pounds of food to local communities directly from local farmers. November’s collection serviced the Father Fred Toys For Tots Campaign and the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians Food Pantries. Turtle Creek Casino also assisted with coordinating a Silver Star recipient to reunite with his lieutenant and the sergeant whose life he saved. They had last seen each other fifty years prior in Vietnam when Sgt. William French was shot. “I took a bullet through my voice box and out my back,” he recalled. Private Joseph “Doc” Safina improvised medical relief
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through a ball-point pen, and along with Platoon leader Coll Tom Lopresti assisted him to a helicopter to receive care. Although decades passed without knowing what happened, the men were recently reunited. Their gratitude for each other was evident and inspirational. It was a special moment made possible through careful coordination and planning with the casino.
and families’ lives. Along with the many amenities at Turtle Creek and Leelanau Sands Casinos, they offer a monthly appreciation promotion for veterans on the first Wednesday of each month.
Through their charitable giving, the casino makes a difference in countless Michigan veterans’
https://www.turtlecreekcasino. com/promotions/veteransappreciation-day
Helping Women and Children…
MI Freedom Center Style By Matt Garris and Tom Lang
I
t’s often the little things – or in this case, the ‘little ones’ – that matter the most to the military and Veteran guests we serve at the Michigan Freedom Center, a military lounge for travelers passing through Detroit Metro Airport each day.
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In December, a woman and her child came to the MI Freedom Center at the North Terminal. She stopped by carrying her crying infant, papoose style. As this soldier was trying to retrieve her military ID and a baby bottle for the little one, her baby fussed even more. At that moment, one of our dedicated volunteers jumped into compassion mode and held and cuddled the baby to the point of smiles and coos. This tender moment allowed for the mother to get her things organized, along with a much-needed break, we’re sure, while traveling at an unfamiliar airport. Doing the little things to say ‘thank you’ to our U.S. active duty and military Veterans is a core mission of the MI Freedom Center. The Centers, with additional locations at the Military Entrance Processing Stations in Lansing and Troy, are a quiet respite and refreshment stop for more than 700,000 military and Veteran guests since the first Center opened at the Delta terminal on Veteran’s Day, 2011. The airport lounges specifically have recliners, free Wi-Fi, drinks, snacks, and other amenities. The small staff and gracious volunteers do their best to be the hands and feet of compassion on behalf of the donors who keep the Freedom Center afloat.
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I loved they had bunk beds for anyone needing a nap. This place really has a homey feel, and that’s exactly how we felt...at home.
Perhaps the most critical service of the Freedom Center, and thankfully the least utilized, is our Care Team that helps comfort and aide the families and friends of fallen soldiers returning home to Michigan for the final time. They’ve made the ultimate sacrifice, and our special volunteers provide a wonderful service. There is nothing ‘typical’ about our volunteers’ experience when serving guests at the Michigan Freedom Center. Still, often it’s something like this account from Kathy, a faithful volunteer: A favorite story of mine is the Marine recruit on his way to Parris Island, South Carolina, who was just one week past his 18th birthday. We talked for a long time when I eventually learned that he had never been on an airplane before! I helped him find his gate for the flight and made sure that he had snacks and water for the flight to Savannah and the bus ride to Parris Island.
have snacks and coffee,” said. “It was great. They also had clean blankets for anyone to use, which I used for my baby to do tummy time. I loved they had bunk beds for anyone needing a nap. This place really has a homey feel, and that’s exactly how we felt...at home.” When traveling through Detroit, the Michigan Freedom Center becomes the active duty and veterans’ Home Sweet Home.
An online reviewer, a Marine wife, named Allison, of Dunmore, PA, said: “I was able to feed my baby in the comfort of a nice big comfy leather chair…watch TV and
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Blueberry Protein Pancakes By Kirsten Kubert - comfortablydomestic.com
Blueberry Protein Pancakes are a thick and fluffy pancakes filled with sweet blueberries and an extra boost of protein and omega 3 for a healthy, delicious breakfast that you can feel good about. This easy recipe comes together in 5 minutes in a blender, and includes a gluten free option!
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5 min - Prep Time 10 min - Cook Time 15 min - Total Time YIELDS 6 SERVINGS (12 TO 14 PANCAKES)
Ingredients • 1 C. old fashioned oats • 1 C. 100% white whole wheat flour (such or whole wheat pastry flour) • 1 Tbs. baking powder • ½ tsp. salt • 1 Tbs. honey (or more, to taste) • 3 egg whites • 1 ripe banana, peeled and broken into 1-inch pieces • 1 C. small curd low fat cottage cheese • ¾ C. 2% milk • 1 C. fresh or frozen blueberries • 1 Tbs. chia seeds
Instructions
Notes
Heat a non-stick griddle over medium heat (about 225 degrees F) while preparing the batter.
The batter is lightly sweet. If sweeter pancakes are desired, simply add more honey. There is no need to thaw frozen blueberries before folding them into the batter. The pancake batter will be very thick. For thinner pancakes, add additional milk to achieve the desired consistency. An extra ¼ cup of milk should do nicely for thinner pancakes. If a non-stick griddle is not available, a greased or buttered stainless steel skillet may be used. Leftover pancakes may be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Pulse the oats in a blender or food processor until ground into a powder. Add the flour, baking powder, salt, honey, egg whites, banana, cottage cheese, and milk to the blender. Press the “batter” option if the blender is equipped with one, or pulse the mixture to puree to a smooth batter. Transfer the pancake batter to a large bowl . Fold the blueberries and chia seeds into the batter to incorporate. Use a large (3 oz.) scoop to portion the batter onto the hot griddle. Spread the batter into a larger circle with the back of the scoop before moving on to the next pancake. Cook the pancakes until the batter bubbles on top and the edges begin to appear dry. Flip the pancake. The top should be an even golden brown. Continue cooking the pancakes until browned on the other side. Continue the process until all batter has been cooked. Serve immediately.
For GLUTEN FREE pancakes, simply grind an additional cup of gluten free oats in place of the whole wheat flour.
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Toys for Tots Honors Volunteers with
Star Awards By
Three volunteers were recently presented with the Toys for Tots of Northwest Michigan Star Awards for their outstanding contribution to the annual Christmas toy drive.
T
he Star award is presented to one person who works within the organizing committee and a second person who works outside of the committee. A Junior Star Award was also presented to a young person who has been actively involved in the campaign. The 2020 awards were presented to Jennifer Miller of Bill Marsh Auto, Keith Staples from the Scorpions Motorcycle Club and 11-year old Sarah Sheeran (ShareIn). Miller was given the award for numerous years of working within the committee. Miller has actively worked on event planning, fundraising activities and marketing for Toys for Tots. Staples was honored for organizing an annual toy gathering motorcycle ride for many years through the motorcycle club he helps lead. Sheeran, a student at Grand Traverse Area Catholic Schools, has been involved with Toys for Tots since she was three-years old. Every year she has assisted with toy gathering events and regularly helps with sorting toys. This is only the second time a Junior Star Award has been given by Toys for Tots.
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The toy drive is part of a national campaign that started 73-years ago by the Marine Corps Reserves. “The enthusiasm of our volunteers is remarkable,” said Toys for Tots coordinator, Maggie Kent. “They become very passionate about helping to make sure that Christmas is special for everyone in the region.” In the past, the awards were presented during a thank you dinner for volunteers but the event was cancelled due to COVID-19. Instead the awards were handed directly to the recipients by campaign organizers. Kent said despite the challenges of the pandemic, the toy campaign was a tremendous success. Final numbers reported to the national Toys For Tots Foundation show that over 32,000 toys were distributed in 2020, which represents a 26-percent increase from the previous year. More than 6,000 children were served with the toy program in the five-county area served by the campaign. While toy donations were down slightly, cash donations were up a dramatic 134-percent.
through the Bikes for Tikes campaign. The bikes program began 19-years ago and since its start has distributed over 4,200 bikes.
“Once again this community stepped up with amazing generosity,” said Kent. “We were concerned about meeting the needs going into the campaign. That concern disappeared when we saw how much support we received from businesses and individuals.”
Toys for Tots of Northwest Michigan works through 15 human service agencies; including the Father Fred Foundation, Salvation Army, Leelanau Christian Neighbors, Benzie Area Christian Neighbors and others. The program covers Grand Traverse, Antrim, Benzie, Leelanau and Kalkaska counties. Other Toys for Tots campaigns are active in different parts of northern Michigan.
Toys for Tots was bolstered by 380 bikes that were collected
Local corporate sponsors include Meijer, Bill Marsh Buick/
GMC, Fox Motors, Jen Tees, Two Men And A Truck, A. Papano’s Pizza, Traverse City RecordEagle, Up North Live News, Midwestern Broadcasting/WKLT, 106 KHQ, 104.5 Bob FM, Black Diamond Broadcasting, BATA, Fast Signs, ASCOM North, and Jimmy John’s. The toy drive is part of a national campaign that started 73-years ago by the Marine Corps Reserves. It is the largest toy collection program in the country with 800 campaigns in all 50 states.
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