on your 20 under 40 recognition from all your friends at Thumb Area Psychological Services. You have committed your career and heart to helping others in our community and we are so proud of the quality and compassion you radiate in everything you do!
Thank you for representing Thumb Area and Psychological Services and Turning Point Autism Clinic with pride!
Age: 25
Spouse/Children: Daughter
Taylor Talaski
Hometown: Bad Axe
Employer: Huron County Sheriff’s Office
1. Current job title/responsibilities: Deputy. Responsibilities: Responding to complaints, accidents, conducting traffic stops, and patrol.
2. What is the best aspect of your job? There are so many things that I love about the job, but the best thing that I can think of is taking the explores on ride along. I did ride along’s when I was in the program and now, I get to show them what I do during my shift from going to a complaint or conducting traffic stops.
3. Why is your community a good place to live and work? I lived here all of my life and there’s so much to do from hunting, and fishing to the festivals that some of the small towns/villages host during the year. For work it’s great, there are so many people in the area that support us. Being able to come back to work where I grew up is great, being able to interact with the community is huge for me as I like the community policing aspect of the job.
4. What one person has influenced you the most?
Definitely my father, he always goes above and beyond for my brother and me. He worked hard for everything that he has in life and taught me to have a great work ethic. Now I can show my daughter the something.
5. What is your biggest goal in life? I already achieved that goal of being in law enforcement. It doesn’t even feel like a job.
6. What do you do to relieve stress? Going to the gym, going hunting, fishing, spending time with friends and family.
7. What are your three favorite movies? Bad Boys, the Benchwarmers, and Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.
8. Name a book that has influenced you. The Personal Side of Policing.
9. If you could be any fictional character, who would it be? Superman.
10. What quote do you live by? “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” — Ferris Bueller
Age: 25
Spouse/Children: Husband Brendan Kreiner, son Atticus Kreiner, 2
Hometown: Born and raised in Deckerville. Now a proud resident of Bad Axe.
Employer: Northstar Finanicial Group Innovations
1. Current job title/ responsibilities: I am an eBanking Specialist for Northstar Bank and West Michigan Community Bank. My day-to-day tasks always change, which keeps it interesting. I help our business customers with their cash management needs. Whether it’s ACH, wires, positive pay, RDC, or just general questions. I also assist individual customers with any online questions that may have.
2. What is the best aspect of your job? It’s hard to chose one, as I genuinely love my job.
I would have to say the friendships I’ve made with my coworkers. I’ve truly made friends for life, like my “Og Work Pals” and favorite golf league & karaoke partner. I couldn’t imagine work or life without them.
I appreciate our customers as well. They are the best customers you could ask for and I love building connections with them.
3. Why is your community a good place to live and work? We are a small, close-knit community. Businesses and individuals are always stepping in to
help those in need. I am currently a board member on the Bad Axe Chamber of Commerce and that has allowed me to see how truly great our community is. Businesses support one another, and want eachother to thrive. We all want Bad Axe to be the best place there is for us, and those after us.
4. What one person has influenced you the most? Kaitlyn Fay. She is a strong, powerful, intelligent, boss lady. She was the previous president, now vice president, of The Chamber. How incredible is that? She inspires me to work hard, be heard, be involved in the community, and never give up. If she wants to do something, she gets it done. There is no stopping Kaitlyn from anything. I hope one day to be half as great as she is.
5. What is your biggest goal in life? It may be cheesy, but to be the best wife and mom I can be. My boys are my everything and anything. I want them to be proud of me and to know everything I do, is for them. If they are happy, healthy, and safe. My life is complete.
6. What do you do to relieve stress? I love golfing or to travel. A quick trip to Ubly Heights Golf Course or to the airport to go to NYC or Boston for the day typically helps with stress.
7. What are your three favorite movies? 10 Things I Hate About You, The Breakfast Club, and Happy Gilmore.
8. Name a book that has influenced you. Change
9. If you could be any fictional character, who would it be? Michael Scott. He’s a friend to everyone (except Toby) and means well with ev-
erything he does. Plus his humor? Top tier.
10. What quote do you live by? “If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair,” — Shirley Chisholm
Age: 36
Spouse/Children: Parker 12, Ty, 9
Hometown: Harbor Beach
Employer: Huron County Medical Care Facility
1. Current job title/ responsibilities: I am the Director of Nursing at Huron County Medical Care Facility, a 112-bed skilled nursing facility. I am responsible for overseeing all aspects of the nursing department, which includes a team of approximately 100 employees. My role encompasses ensuring the delivery of high-quality resident care, implementing and monitoring policies and procedures, and collaborating closely with the interdisciplinary team. Also, I ensure compliance with regulatory standards and continually work to enhance the overall care experience for residents. Additionally, I am the owner of Fine Lines Aesthetics, Inc. I specialize in providing Botox treatments and a range of vitamin injection services. With nearly two years of experience in the aesthetics industry, my commitment is to elevate the health, wellness, and confidence of our community by delivering exceptional, personalized care in every treatment I offer.
2. What is the best aspect of your job? The most rewarding aspect of my role is with the residents and the opportunity to connect with them on a deeper level. They bring a wealth of wisdom and life stories that create rich opportuni-
ties for building trust and meaningful relationships. My role goes beyond providing medical care — it’s about offering compassion, empathy, and a steady presence during moments of vulnerability and uncertainty. It’s truly fulfilling to know I’m not just addressing their physical needs, but also being a source of support and companionship. Similarly, as the owner and operator of Fine Lines Aesthetics, the greatest joy comes from seeing and hearing the positive transformations in my clients. Knowing that I’ve helped them feel more confident and at ease in their own skin is incredibly rewarding. There’s nothing quite like seeing someone leave feeling better about themselves, both inside and out.
3. Why is your community a good place to live and work? My community is a wonderful place to work, thanks to the closeknit atmosphere and strong sense of loyalty. I truly enjoy taking care of others and hearing their stories about how they know my parents, siblings, or grandmother. It’s these personal connections that make my work so fulfilling and meaningful
4. What one person has influenced you the most? My mom definitely takes
the crown for the most influential person in my career, even though I’ve got a solid squad of family support. When I was a little kid, she was balancing nursing school, and I took every opportunity to quiz her like I was some mini medical examiner. I even went so far as to use her supplies to inject oranges with saline right in our kitchen. Growing up with a parent in the medical field made it clear to me that I was destined to be the one rushing to my siblings’ aid. I’d give my sister a bell to ring whenever she broke a bone, just so I could have the honor of waiting on her hand and foot. And when my brother got a head wound (thanks to me), I didn’t just hold his head together like a pro — I read him a book at the same time because multitasking was my specialty. It was as if I was training for a career in the medical field, with a side of sibling TLC. My mom and I would also bond over shows like Untold Stories of the ER and Dr. G: Medical Examiner, and I absolutely loved them.
5. What is your biggest goal in life? My biggest goal in life is to raise my boys to become successful, kind, and compassionate men. Being a loving and dedicated mother comes before any career or business aspirations I have.
I believe that nurturing their character and guiding them to live with purpose and empathy is the most important role I can play.
6. What do you do to relieve stress? Recently, I have taken up teaching myself how to crochet. It has proven to be a valuable form of stress relief, allowing me to temporarily disconnect and focus entirely
on the creative process.
7. What are your three favorite movies? Three of my favorite movies have to be The Peanut Butter Falcon, Me, Myself & Irene, and Step Brothers.
8. Name a book that has influenced you. I’ve never been much of a reader, unless it’s medical textbooks. I’m in my master’s program,
that’s pretty much my reading material these days.
9. If you could be any fictional character, who would it be? Katniss Everdeen.
10. What quote do you live by? “God will not stop the storm, but he will guide us through its path,” — Danielle Murphy
1. Current job title/ responsibilities: Clinical Pharmacy Practitioner — utilize my license to see patients independently, manage chronic disease states, order labs, prescribe as necessary, send referrals if needed, and review non-formulary requests.
2. What is the best aspect of your job? It’s an honor to give back to the veterans that served and sacrificed for us.
3. Why is your community a good place to live and work? Small-town living is a blessing. We’re able to own land, enjoy nature, and slow down the pace of life. Working here allows me to have a personal connection to the veterans. Everything is family-oriented too
which I appreciate.
4. What one person has influenced you the most? Brandon Baranski, my brother — he was my first best friend, and I’ve always wanted to be more like him. His success motivates me. I think we’ve both made our parents proud. He’s hardworking, trustworthy, and generous. Brandon is the life of the party, and he’s extremely witty too. Kids love being around him, and he enjoys their company too. I’m also grateful for the influence he has had on my boys. He has more than earned the title of “best uncle ever.”
5. What is your biggest goal in life? My biggest goal is to make the Lord happy, honor my husband,
Age: 31
Spouse/Children:
Spouse Aaron Darbee, Children Colton
Darbee, Liam Darbee
Hometown: Filion
Employer: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
and have both my parents and my kids be proud of me.
6. What do you do to relieve stress? Traveling, fishing, Jeeping, berry picking, canning — making memories with my family is the best way to relieve stress.
7. What are your three favorite movies? John Q, Megan Leavey, Hardball.
8. Name a book that has influenced you. Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom
9. If you could be any fictional character, who would it be? Elle Woods — she’s bubbly and confident in her own success. Plus she spends a lot of time with her dog.
10. What quote do you live by? “Chop your own wood, and it will warm you twice.” — Henry Ford
Age: 32
Spouse/Children:
Wife Ellery Schrot, son Daniel Schrot, daughter Joanna Schrot
Hometown: Lapeer
Employer: Biddinger, Schrot & Rolando PC
1. Current job title/ responsibilities: Elder Law and Estate Planning Attorney with Biddinger, Schrot & Rolando. My primary role at the firm is Estate Planning, which includes drafting different types of trusts, deeds, power of attorney documents and wills.
2. What is the best aspect of your job? Meeting with so many unique individuals and creating lasting relationships with families. With the focus being on Estate Planning and Elder Law, I have the chance to meet with people accomplishing goals they have sought for years as well as consoling those that have lost a loved one.
3. Why is your community a good place to live and work? I thoroughly enjoy the atmosphere and culture of those that I work with. Our clients come from all walks of life, yet the genuineness of our com-
munity members as clients, neighbors and community partners is second to none. There remains a true sense of community and that is a rare commodity that I am very grateful for.
4. What one person has influenced you the most? I can’t limit this answer to one person, because they have both been integral in every aspect of my life and those individuals are my parents. In their own unique ways, they have and continue to provide me with the foundation, love, and encouragement that allowed me to be where I am today. I truly would not be in the position I am without them. They are both models of hard work and dedication and their accomplishments
are the inspiration for me to always strive to better myself and those around me.
5. What is your biggest goal in life? My biggest goal is to ensure that I can be the absolute best son, husband, and father for my family. Plain and simple, without the support of my parents, my sister, my loving bride, my two beautiful children and countless friends and family, I would not be where I am today, and it will foreve
6. What do you do to relieve stress? I am an avid outdoorsman and have been since I was a boy. You can generally find me chasing turkeys SchrotContinued
Schrot -
Continued from 6
in the spring, walleyes in the summer and ducks in the fall. The profound connection and cleansing of the soul that I find in the woods, marsh, rivers and waters of this Great State is healing and invigorating at the same time.
7. What are your three favorite movies? Groundhog Day, Goodfellas and Moneyball
8. Name a book that has influenced you. Bury me in my waders: An Old Duck Hunter Recalls his Fowl Past by Don E. Webster
9. If you could be any fictional character, who would it be? Michael Scott from “The Office”
10. What quote do you live by? “Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better,” — Albert Einstein
Age: 24
Spouse/Children: Wife Shyan Kreiner, son Atticus Kreiner
Hometown: Deckerville, now a resident of Bad Axe
Employer: Self-employed, Kreiner’s Karpentry
1. Current job title/responsibilities: Owner of Kreiner’s Karpentry. We are a remodeling company. We can do anything from drywall and flooring to kitchen and bathroom remodels, and much more.
2. What is the best aspect of your job? Being able to work with my hands and solve problems.
3. Why is your community a good place to live and work? Having my own business and being a member of the Bad Axe chamber, I get to chance meet many new people I would never have had the pleasure of meeting. I see how the community can come together to support a business or individuals when needed. I also appreciate the support the community has given my business. A lot of business comes from word of mouth, and I can’t thank those who refer me to others enough.
4. What one person has influenced you the most? I would say my parents. They are retired
business owners (Kreiner’s Korner and Jim Dandy Auto out of Deckerville) and have taught me a lot about how to work hard and the ins and outs of owning a business.
5. What is your biggest goal in life? To be the best I can be at anything I do.
6. What do you do to relieve stress? Hanging out with my son or remodeling my house.
7. What are your three favorite movies? Step Brothers, Free Guy, Interstellar.
8. Name a book that has influenced you. Not much of a reader.
9. If you could be any fictional character, who would it be? Tony Stark. Would love to have the knowledge and the money to build anything my mind could think of.
10. What quote do you live by? “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take,” — Wayne Gretzky.
“I want to thank each of you for your incredible support. Because of you, Fine Lines Aesthetics has been able to grow and bring my dream of offering top-tier aesthetics to the Thumb area to life. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to serve you and to continue doing what I love. Thank you for being part of this journey I truly couldn’t have done it without you. ”
-Bette
1. Current job title/responsibilities: Financial advisor.
2. What is the best aspect of your job? I love helping educate my clients about the market and economics in general. So many people tell me that they know nothing about the stock market world, often expressing shame or embarrassment. That’s why I’m here though, that’s why I have a job! I’m passionate about helping people learn and feel more comfortable with investing.
3. Why is your community a good place to live and work? I’ve lived in
Age: 29
the Thumb for five years now and have met so many kind-hearted people. I have also witnessed how giving our community can be. So really, it’s the people that make our community a wonderful place to live, work, and PLAY – life is too short to not include the fun parts.
4. What one person has influenced you the most? Since I’m so much like him, I’d have to say my dad. He gave me his work ethic, his willingness to help others, and his eyes.
5. What is your biggest goal in life? My biggest goal in life has always been to help people. I
Spouse/Children: Husband Paul Zwemmer
Hometown: Sebwaing
Employer: Simly A to Z Boutique
1. Current job title/responsibilities: I am the owner of Simply A to Z Boutique, so I am in charge of everything from buying the clothes to selling them in store, and everything in between. As a business owner you truly wear all the hats: Marketing, Buying, Selling, Logistics, Customer Service, and so many more.
2. What is the best aspect
of your job? The best part of my job is hands down the customers. I absolutely love meeting customers and forming relationships with them. Customers start as strangers, and end up becoming friends, it is my favorite part of this business.
3. Why is your community a good place to live and work? Our community
is a great place to work and live simply because of the people and the small town support. I tell people this all the time, but I am certain that my business would not be where it is today if I did not start it in this small community. The support is simply unmatched, and people really do want to see you succeed.
4. What one person has influenced you the most?
My husband Paul has been my biggest influence. His work ethic is unmatched and so inspiring to me to keep going even when I feel I can’t.
5. What is your biggest goal in life? My biggest
goal in life is to simply make a difference for the better in this world. Whether it is to make someone fall in love with how they look in an outfit, or make someone smile on a bad day, making a positive difference is so important to me. You never know what people are going through and the world can be so dark sometimes, so being a positive part of someone’s day is important to me.
6. What do you do to relieve stress? I usually will spend time with friends and family. I also enjoy working out or just spending time in
ZwemmerContinued on 17
am lucky enough to be able to do so through my career and non-profits I volunteer with, like the Bad Axe Chamber of Commerce and Bad Axe Rotary Club.
6. What do you do to relieve stress? Spend time laughing with good people or at home with my husband and two spoiled cats.
7. What are your three favorite movies? I don’t watch a lot of movies, but my three favorite TV shows are: The Office, Ted Lasso, and The Golden Girls.
8. Name a book that
has influenced you. “The Psychology of Money” by Morgan Housel. I love it so much, I keep extra copies on hand give out to clients and friends.
9. If you could be any fictional character, who would it be? Leslie Knope.
10. What quote do you live by? “Tell me, what else should I have done? Doesn’t everything die at last, and too soon? Tell me, what is it that you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” from “The Summer Day” by Mary Oliver. 8
Age: 31
Spouse/Children: Spouse Brandyn Lawson
Hometown: Lansing
Employer: Edward Jones
Financial
1. Current job title/responsibilities: I lead the Community Wellness department and Scheurer Wellness Center, Sandy Shores, ensuring that our programs and outreach efforts deliver meaningful education and support to the community. My focus is on developing and implementing initiatives that promote overall well-being, strengthen community engagement, and foster lasting relationships to create a positive and lasting impact on community health.
2. What is the best aspect of your job? The most rewarding part of my job is building meaningful connections within the community. Whether it’s a simple conversation with someone new at an event or helping a community member achieve a personal goal, every interaction makes an impact. I’m also fortunate to work with an incredible team. We collaborate effortlessly, share ideas, and support one another, creating an engaging and dynamic department that truly makes a difference.
3. Why is your community a good place to live and work? Pigeon is a great place to live and work because of the people who make this community feel like home. With my parents a few blocks away, my grandparents next door, and my brother one street over, I’m surrounded by love and support every day. That same sense of connection carries over into my work, where I get to collaborate with a dedicated team and make a meaningful impact on the community. The strong relationships, both personally
and professionally, are what make Pigeon such a special place to be.
4. What one person has influenced you the most? There isn’t one person who has influenced me the most, but two people who influenced me. Those two people are my parents, Robert and Joely Chandonnet. They are the definition of kindness, hard work, and unwavering support. Through their actions, they have taught me the importance of independence, compassion, and dedication. They have always encouraged me to chase my goals, but more importantly, they have shown me how to be a strong, loving, and supportive person. Their influence extends far beyond words. They have led by example in every aspect of life, shaping my values and who I am today. I am beyond grateful for their guidance, and I strive every day to carry forward the lessons they have instilled in me.
5. What is your biggest goal in life? My biggest personal goal is to start a family and be the best wife and mother I can be. I would also love to build a home centered on love, support, and lasting memories. Professionally, my biggest goal is to purchase land and develop a welcoming venue that serves as a versatile space for all types of gatherings. I aim to create a space that not only provides an inviting atmosphere but also focuses on creating meaningful connections with our community to offer a memorable setting for life’s most important moments.
Age: 29
Spouse/Children: n/a
Hometown: Pigeon
Employer: Scheurer Health
6. What do you do to relieve stress? When I am feeling stressed, I give myself time to walk away, reflect, and process what’s causing the stress. This helps me regain clarity and allows me to approach the situation with a fresh perspective and often leads to a better outcome.
7. What are your three favorite movies? A fun fact about me is that I rarely watch TV. I feel like there are so many other things I’d rather do with my time, and for me, TV and movies often feel like a less productive way to spend it.
8. Name a book that has influenced you. A book that has influenced me is Forgetting What You Can’t Forget by Lysa TerKeurst. This book helped me reflect on the importance of releasing what no longer serves us, creating space for personal growth, peace, and a more positive future. One of the biggest lessons from the book is how crucial forgiveness is not just for others, but for ourselves. It’s a powerful reminder that we have a choice to move forward and create a brighter path ahead.
9. If you could be any fictional character, who would it be? If I could be any fictional character, I’d pick Serena van der Woodsen from Gossip Girl because she radiates confidence, kindness,
and elegance. Her ability to balance a glamorous lifestyle with genuine, heartfelt connections is something I truly admire. Serena shows that being authentic, loyal, and bold can lead to a fulfilling, vibrant life.
10. What quote do you live by? “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” — Maya Angelou
Age: 36
Spouse/Children: Emma, 11, Elija, 9, Oliver, 7, and Piper, 4
Hometown: Bad Axe
Employer: Emma’s Coffee House and Bad Axe Club Fitness
1. Current job title/responsibilities: Own and operate our little coffee shop and fitness facility; taking care of the every day minutiae and planning ways to encourage growth and transitions.
2. What is the best aspect of your job? Working with great folks, serving and visiting with lots of customers every day at the gym or Emma’s, roasting and enjoying fresh coffee, flexibility
3. Why is your community a good place to live and work? Lots of amazing outdoors places to enjoy, like Lake Huron, the Bad Axe walking trail, Huron County Nature Center, Steel-Bridge Trail Head, etc; no traffic; salt-of-the-earth people.
4. What one person has influenced you the most? Our parents (Deb & Randy Severance, Pat &
Sheri Lynn Essian).
5. What is your biggest goal in life? To raise up kids that try to love God and love others.
6. What do you do to relieve stress? Video games or hunting (Brad); Cleaning or being outdoors with the family (Jessi).
7. What are your three favorite movies? Lord of the Rings; the Princess Bride; Muppet Christmas Carol.
8. Name a book that has influenced you. The Bible.
9. If you could be any fictional character, who would it be? Bullwinkle J. Moose (Brad); Elizabeth Bennet (Jessi).
10. What quote do you live by? “Trust God” (words of wisdom shared by Holly Talaski).
Age: 27
Spouse/Children:
Fiance Andrew Muntz
Hometown: Grew up around Caseville, currently living in Cass City
Employer: Caseville Small Animal Clinic since May of 2017
1. Current job title/ responsibilities: I am a Licenced Veterinary Technician and there are several responsibilities as a technician. I provide nursing care to our patients, administer medications (via oral, intravenous, intramuscular, subcutaneously), collect various samples (blood, urine, cytologies), perform lab work with our many diagnostic equipments, take X-rays, clean teeth, anesthetized and monitor patients during surgery, fill medications, owner education, and so much more. Basically a jack of all trades.
2. What is the best aspect of your job? The best aspect of my job is my job as a whole. I love everything that I do to help pets get better and stay healthy. We utilized the latest technology when
available at Caseville Small Animal Clinic in order to enhance patient care. Of course it is difficult at times, but I can’t picture myself doing anything else. Due to my empathic nature, I specifically like to help with quality of life appointments and euthanasias. I like knowing that I am doing my best to not only make the pet more comfortable in their last moments, but also comforting the owner during that very difficult time/decision.
3. Why is your community a good place to live and work? My community is a good place to live and work because the area is small and generally quiet (unless it is during Cheese-
burger Festival). I do not like city driving. The area is also just a beautiful place to explore whether it is on the beach or on a nature trail.
4. What one person has influenced you the most? It’s hard to narrow it down to one person. My fiance encourages me to be my goofy self. My mom supports me in whatever decisions I make. My dad has taught me that I can do anything that I put my mind to. My stepmom helps me embrace the wild side of life. And I admire how my three siblings are unapologetically themselves.
Deming-OrlikContinued on 18
Age: 23
Spouse/Children: n/a
Hometown: Ubly
Employer: Huron Daily Tribune/Hearst Media Group
1. Current job title/ responsibilities: I’m an account executive, responsible for selling digital and print advertising space to businesses throughout Huron County.
2. What is the best aspect of your job? I love getting to explore the county and connect with the unique businesses and kindhearted business owners who help shape our communities.
3. Why is your community a good place to live and work? In our community, everyone knows everyone, creating a strong sense of support and connection. We take pride in looking out for one another, and any loss within our town feels deeply personal, affecting us all.
4. What one person has influenced you the most? My mother is my greatest role model. She has always
1. Current job title/ responsibilities: At the learning center we are an Early Childhood Special Education 3 year old preschool classroom. Our students are usually new to a school environment, leaving mom and dad for the first time. The majority of our students may need a little more help working towards learning and educational goals, self help skills, speech or possibly an Autism or learning disability diagnosis. Our goal is to have our students work their way to coming five days a week and eventually either leaving us for a local or entering a different classroom by the next school year.
2. What is the best aspect of your job? My job gives me the opportunity to work with the greatest kids. I’m able to give them the chance to learn something new and exciting, help them grow, love them and honestly, I’ve learned so much from them. They show love during the hardest of times, persevere when the work gets hard and prove that patience is a virtue. We choose to acknowledge big feelings and understand that not everyone learns the same.
3. Why is your community a good place to live and work? The community my family lives in really is a beautiful place. Not many
carried herself with grace and demonstrated unwavering moral character, inspiring me every day.
5. What is your biggest goal in life? My ultimate goal is to achieve a fulfilling balance between work and life. I want to earn a comfortable living while still having the time to pursue my passions — traveling, creating art, and spending meaningful time with family and friends.
6. What do you do to relieve stress? When I’m feeling overwhelmed, I find deep cleaning and organizing incredibly therapeutic. It gives me a sense of control while also letting me pro-
crastinate productively.
7. What are your three favorite movies? The Notebook, The Lion King 2: Simba’s Pride, and Don’t Move.
8. Name a book that has influenced you. How to Win Friends and Influence People has had a lasting impact on me.
9. If you could be any fictional character, who would it be? Blair Waldorf — her confidence, ambition, and style are iconic.
10. What quote do you live by? “If it’s out of your hands, it deserves freedom from your mind too.”
Age: 39
Spouse/Children: Husband Jesse, Josephine, 7, Hank, 5, Nell, 5
Hometown: Caseville
Employer: Huron Learning Center
get to escape to the lake at a moments notice, and my family definitely takes advantage of this no matter the season. We live in an area where our children know our neighbors and we feel safe and trust those around us.
4. What one person has influenced you the most? I have three kids,
if you need an influence in your life, meet them. They keep me going. They challenge me daily, but also make me so proud. I want to be better for them, I want them to see that being a good person outweighs what others think and empathy isn’t hard.
OsentoskiContinued on 18
Age: 30
Spouse/Children: Husband Mitchell Guza. Children Ellis, 1, and Archer, 6 mos.
Hometown: Grew up in Sebewaing and lives in Bad Axe
Employer: Thumb Area Psychological Services
1. Current job title/responsibilities: I am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and my current job title is Assistant Clinical Director. I oversee all the daily operations of our ABA Autism Clinic, Turning Point and also Counseling Services as well. This includes overseeing 18 professional staff comprising of BCBA, BCaBA, LMSW, LLMSW, and LLPC, 3 interns in their bachelors and masters programs for ABA, over 40 behavior technicians/registered behavior technicians, 3 co-op students, and 35 clients and their families. I conduct all intake assessments and treatment planning for potential clients as well.
I am one of our BACB approved supervisors for the interns, but my focus is mainly on supervising BCaBA’s and newly certified BCBA’s.
2. What is the best aspect of your job? The best aspect of my job is when I meet with families after they have started services and hearing all the ways ABA therapy has helped their child and family. I also love mentoring upcoming people in the field, watching them reach their full potential as providers and allowing them to grow in a specialty area they are interested in.
3. Why is your community a good place to live and work? Living in my community is great because it has
the small town appeal, where you feel safe, you have all the amazing outdoor activities right in your backyard, have access to wonderful restaurants and resources, and where everyone feels like family. Working in this community feels like a luxury. You get to provide high quality services to local families that they might not otherwise have access to.
4. What one person has influenced you the most? There are many people who have influenced me throughout my life including my family, friends, coworkers, and acquaintances throughout life. I think everyone we meet and have an interaction with has something valuable we can take away from. But I think the person that has influenced me the most would be my dad, Kelly Vermeersch. He was a police officer in Huron County, who was killed in the line of duty in an attempt to save another’s life. Although I was 5 the last time I saw him, his memory and legacy has been a driving force in my life. Even 25 years later, the influence he has had on others and the community is still at the forefront of people’s mind. If I can have half the impact he has had on the community, that would be enough for me.
5. What is your biggest goal in life? My biggest goal in life is to raise a happy
family, be a good role model for my kids and grow old with my husband.
6. What do you do to relieve stress? To relieve stress, I love to read books of a variety of different genres. I also just love playing with my kids and getting to be silly and free, forgetting any stresses I have at that moment. There’s really nothing better than playing like a little kid again.
7. What are your three favorite movies? I am not a big movie person, but I would say my top three favorite movies are: A Man Called Otto, Interstellar, and Harry Potter. And of course you can’t beat a good Disney movie.
8. Name a book that has influenced you. It is a book I have recently read, The Energy Bus by Jon Gordon. I highly recommend everyone read this book at every stage of their life!
9. If you could be any fictional character, who would it be? This was a tough one to answer. I think I would say Dr. Spencer Reid from the show, Criminal Minds.
10. What quote do you live by? “Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t, you’re right” — Henry Ford
Age: 32
4. What one person has influenced you the most?
15
Spouse/Children: Wife Dana, 4-year-old daughter
Hometown: Pigeon
Employer: Owns North Coast Tech
1. Current job title/responsibilities: I provide tech support to local businesses.
2. What is the best aspect of your job? Meeting new people.
3. Why is your community a good place to live and work? Huron County is an exceptional place to raise a family and start a business. It is filled with nice people with lots of tech support needs.
My dad, Chris Fluegge. As a person and a business owner he has always been a great role model.
5. What is your biggest goal in life? To glorify God in my family, business, and community.
6. What do you do to relieve stress? Play music and hike trails.
7. What are your three favorite movies? The Patriot, Strange Brew, Kingdom of
8. Name a book that has influenced you. Don’t Waste Your Life by John Piper.
9. If you could be any fictional character, who would it be? Samwise Gamgee.
10. What quote do you live by? “Isn’t it nice to think that tomorrow is a new day with no mistakes in it yet?” — Anne of Green Gables
Age: 30
4. What one person has influenced you the most?
16
Spouse/Children: Husband Eric Johnston, son Dean Johnston
Hometown: Brown City
Employer: Self-employed, S.J. Organic Farms LLC
1. Current job title/responsibilities: Business owner, grow organic produce and make sourdough breads/goodies with organic flour.
2. What is the best aspect of your job? Providing nourishing and healthy foods to my community and loyal customers. I love that they trust and rely on me to feed their families instead
of buying things from the grocery store that is full of preservatives and processed sugars.
3. Why is your community a good place to live and work? I have the best customers. They are loyal, understanding and very appreciative. Most of them have become more like friends than customers.
My mom. She struggled with addiction to alcohol and drugs when I was young and my parents got a divorce. She turned her life around, started from zero and became a woman I am proud to have as my mother. She showed me how to work hard and endure through hard times in life and how to love fiercely and unconditionally. My drive to succeed and be my best self is thanks to her.
5. What is your biggest goal in life? My biggest goal in life is to leave this earth better than when I entered it. I want to do my part to help make our world a better place in whatever small way I can.
6. What do you do to relieve stress? To relieve stress I workout or read books.
7. What are your three favorite movies? Harry Potter (all of them but especially the last few), The Hobbit Movies (all of them), Avatar.
8. Name a book that has influenced you. The Bible. 9. If you could be any fictional character, who would it be? Daenerys Targaryen from Game of Thrones. I loved her strength and how she wanted to free everyone she came across. I also would love to ride a dragon.
10. What quote do you live by? “Life has no limitations, except the ones you make.”
Age: 23
Spouse/Children: n/a
Hometown: Massillon, Ohio
1. Current job title/ responsibilities: I am a newsroom reporter for the Huron Daily Tribune covering schools, charity events, community events and any other local happenings.
2. What is the best aspect of your job? The best aspect of my job is being able to go out into the community, meet new people, and witness the change you are helping to make.
Employer: The Huron Daily Tribune down to Earth people are and that people are more inclined to help each other out no matter how inconvenient it is.
3. Why is your community a good place to live and work? As someone fairly new to the Bad Axe and Huron County communities, I enjoy how
4. What one person has influenced you the most?
The one person who has influenced me the most is my mom, Wendy Snodgrass.
5. What is your biggest goal in life? My biggest goal in life is to win an award for my writing.
6. What do you do to relieve stress? To relieve stress I like to unwind at home by watching TV on the couch cuddled up with my dogs.
7. What are your three favorite movies? My three favorite movies are I, Tonya, The Parent Trap (1998), and Coraline.
9. If you could be any fictional character, who would it be? If I could be any fictional character, I would be Christina Yang from Grey’s Anatomy.
10. What quote do you live by? “To be early is to be on time, to be on time is to be late, to be late is to be left behind.”
8. Name a book that has influenced you. A book that has influenced me is Where the Sidewalk Ends by Shel Silverstein.
Age: 39
Spouse/Children: Daughter Charliee Phelps
Hometown: Bad Axe
Employer: Advance Wealth Management Service
1. Current job title/ responsibilities: Chief operating officer.
2. What is the best aspect of your job? Helping people through their financial lives.
3. Why is your community a good place to live and work? Our community is a great place to live and work because it is like a
1. Current job title/ responsibilities: 5th grade ELA teacher at Laker Elementary School (AKA the best job ever!)
2. What is the best aspect of your job? There are so many great things about being a teacher. I love helping students try to think and act independently and learn life skills that they will use in their future. Also, the lightbulb moment when students catch onto something that they’ve been trying to learn is an addicting feeling for me. One of the very best aspects of being a teacher is being surrounded by bright, fresh, young minds all day long. My students
are so loving, outgoing, and empathetic that they won’t ever allow me to feel down or have a “bad day.” Working with kids everyday is always an adventure-no two days are ever the same. It’s one of the best feelings ever when my students come to me with exciting or sad news and trust me enough to share their thoughts. They truly surround me with joy and love and make every day and their fresh ideas and insight make me hopeful for our future.
3. Why is your community a good place to live and work? The Laker District is seriously, hands down the best place to work. I love the family we
very large family. I have only been here for 12 years and in that time everyone has been so welcoming and supportive. I have met and been introduced to so many amazing people both young and old that give so much of themselves to make this place so great.
4. What one person has influenced you the most? I’d say that the most
Age: 39
Spouse/Children: Jeremy Jurgess, Ryder, Norah and Audrey
Hometown: Ubly
Employer: Laker Schools
have built as a staff at Lakers — everyone is here to help each other and cares about the wellbeing of others. I am blessed enough to have lots of chances to interact with parents and students in the community. I love attending sporting or other events that my students are participating in and seeing them light up when they see “their teacher” cheering them on.
Every child needs someone at school to be there for them and I hope to be that person to as many kids as I can.
4. What one person has influenced you the most? My mom is the person who has influenced me the most in life. She worked hard as a single parent to Jurgess -
influential person in my life would be my family and friends. I have been blessed with such an amazing group that has taught me the value of hard work, the importance of investing in people and your community and the value in lifelong learning.
5. What is your biggest goal in life? As a father my biggest goal in life is to teach my daughter the value of living a happy life, prioritizing personal happiness and enjoying every bit of the ride.
6. What do you do to relieve stress? Work out, play sports and spend time in the outdoors.
7. What are your three favorite movies? Gladiator, Boondock Saints, Remember the Titans.
8. Name a book that has influenced you. The Gap & The Gain.
9. If you could be any fictional character, who would it be? Tony Stark.
10. What quote do you live by? “Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming — ‘WOW – What a Ride!’” — Anon.
Age: 18
Spouse/Children:
None
Hometown: Caseville
Employer: Travis Elenbaum (my dad) at the Wooded Island II, and Brittany Taylor at the Ferris Department of Public Safety
1. Current job title/ responsibilities: I’m a bartender at my father’s restaurant called The Wooded Island II where I do a little bit of everything. I help with inventory, I take care of customers, I do some maintenance work, but I mostly stick to bartending when I am home from college. While im in Big Rapids, I’m a dispatcher at the Ferris Department of Public Safety, which includes answering all of the calls that come into the department and working closely with the officers and handling any maintenance issues or alarms that may come in.
2. What is the best aspect of your job? I absolutely love socializing with all of the customers from my hometown and learning more about the people in my area. I find so much joy in coming home and seeing all of the regular customers come into the restaurant. The best aspect of my dispatch position
is most certainly being helpful to all of those that call. Knowing that I’m being helpful and advancing my communication skills is also a very rewarding part of the job. Not to mention the people in both of my jobs are so welcoming and it truly does make the job so much better.
3. Why is your community a good place to live and work? My community is an amazing place due to the people in it. I learned very quickly that Caseville is a welcoming community, if you ever need help or advice there is always people willing to help out. I love coming from a small area because it shows how important small family businesses are. The community truly does a lot to make
to tasks when I’m feeling anxious or stressed.
7. What are your three favorite movies? The Fault In Our Stars, Hangover, and The Blind Side.
8. Name a book that has influenced you. “Don’t Believe Everything You Think” by Joseph Nguyen is by far the most inspirational book I have read.
9. If you could be any fictional character, who would it be? Black Widow.
10. What quote do you live by? “The top of the mountain has the scariest views, so never rush to the top enjoy every sight on the way up.”
ZwemmerContinued from 8
peace and quiet to relieve stress.
7. What are your three favorite movies? Devil Wears Prada, How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days, The Pursuit of Happyness.
8. Name a book that has influenced you. I was more influenced by fashion magazines such as Vogue
9. If you could be any fictional character, who would it be? Serena Van der Woodsen from Gossip Girl so I could have her amazing wardrobe.
10. What quote do you live by? “If your dreams don’t scare you they aren’t big enough.”
sure these businesses thrive in such a small area.
4. What one person has influenced you the most? I wouldn’t be able to just single out one person who has influenced me. I would say my entire family has had the biggest impact on my life and has helped with individual growth and success. They have all played a major role in my life.
5. What is your biggest goal in life? My biggest goal in life is to always stay true to myself and maintain a healthy and positive lifestyle.
6. What do you do to relieve stress? To relieve stress I usually go workout, read a book, cook, or bake. I would say those are my go
to our ver y own L ACEY PIONK and KAT Y SNODGR ASS for being recognized as two of Huron Daily Tribune’s Top 20 Under 40!
We are so proud of your accomplishments and can’t wait to see the incredible impact you’ll continue to make.
Deming-Orlik -
Continued from 11
5. What is your biggest goal in life? My biggest goal in life would be to travel out west to see the mountains.
6. What do you do to relieve stress? I like to read books, specifically horror/ thriller which seems like it could cause more stress, but I love fast-paced books that keep you guessing what will happen next or what the twist will be.
7. What are your three favorite movies? Who Framed Roger Rabbit. Labyrinth. All four of the American Pies.
8. Name a book that has influenced you. Not necessarily a book that has influenced me, but a book that I think about a lot is Room by Emma Donoghue.
9. If you could be any fictional character, who would it be? Nadja from What We Do In The Shadows. She’s bold, funny, and doesn’t care what anyone thinks.
10. What quote do you live by? “Normal is an illusion. What is normal for the spider is chaos for the fly.” — Morticia Addams
OsentoskiContinued from 12
5. What is your biggest goal in life? I want to make some sort of difference, somewhere in someone’s life.
6. What do you do to relieve stress? Four nights a week I am either teaching tumbling at Self Expressions dance studio and coaching gymnastics
JurgessContinued from 16
raise my sister and me and I know it was never easy. My mom showed me that raising and caring for kids is not an easy feat, but it is so so so worth it, because healthy kids will shape our future. My mom was the one to encourage me to attend college and continue on to earn my Master’s Degree. She has been in my life as a constant source of love and loyalty since the day I was born and not a day goes by where I don’t communicate with her about school or life in general. She was the one to encourage me to pursue my dream of becoming a teacher. She has always
at Thumb Tumblers. I have a passion and love for the sport and it brings a lot of joy to my life. I love that I am able to share it with my girls and my students. I also like a great beach day with our dogs, a lazy, read a good book day or just doing nothing with a nice crisp Diet Coke.
7. What are your three favorite movies? I do love a good Hallmark movie, even though my husband
been my biggest fan and has helped me in ways I could never repay her.
5. What is your biggest goal in life? My biggest goal in life may seem small to some, but to me it’s a huge goal. My goal in life is to raise a healthy, loving, respectful family. My husband and kids are the reason I wake up and work so hard each day. Their love and support is the reason I am in a successful and enjoyable moment in life. I love spending time with my kids and husband and I know that I can do my part to create empathetic, respectful, responsible individuals by spending quality time with them. It’s the small moments and things
says they are all the same. Josie, Nell and I have been loving Wicked lately, while Hank will watch any movie as long as he gets to be next to me.
8. Name a book that has influenced you. I recently read “House Rules” by Jodi Picoult, which reopened my eyes regarding students/adults with learning disabilities and how the neurotypical world perceives them.
that are making my biggest goal in life pretty possible.
6. What do you do to relieve stress? I love to snuggle up with my dogs and read a book when the world seems overwhelming. The feeling of getting lost in another world is so stress relieving to me. I also love to cook for my family. If I wasn’t teaching, I would love to be involved in the food industry world. Those are two ways I relieve stress. Playing board games or having a movie night with my family is also another way I relieve stress.
7. What are your three favorite movies? I can’t remember the last time I watched a movie that was
9. If you could be any fictional character, who would it be? Elle Woods, Legally Blonde. She is stereotyped as a ditzy blonde but proves even though she looks the part, she actually is very intelligent,capable, confident and resilient. Just because she loves a good pink ensemble, her dog and purple shampoo does not define the person she is. (That one goes out to a grown
not a children’s movie, but one of my favorite series is “Heartland.” Recently, my kids and I watched “The Wild Robot” and it had a great message about kindness and empathy. One of my favorite non-kid movies is any from the “National Lampoon’s” series of movies. I can imagine taking a road trip or spending a holiday with my family may have some similarities.
8. Name a book that has influenced you. One of my favorite children’s book is “Thank You, Mr. Falker,” by Patricia Polacco. It is about a reading teacher who will not give up on a particular student and teaches the joy and love of reading.
dancer that once referred to me as a “bubble head” and I quote “there is no way she can handle all this and do a good job”. Well, I did.. Thank you.
10. What quote do you live by? I don’t live by this, but I recently read a quote by Maya Angelou: “Each time a woman stands up for herself, without knowing it possibly, without claiming it, she stands up for all women.”
9. If you could be any fictional character, who would it be? If I could be any fictional book character I would choose to be Ms. Nelson/Ms. Viola Swamp. I would love to disguise myself and be my student’s substitute teacher for the day.
10. What quote do you live by? The quote that I love and have displayed at home is “If you want to change the world, go home and love your family.” At the end of the day I always look forward to spending time with my husband and kids, because I know that the love and time I give them will help get them through even the toughest of times.
• Caring, dedicated teachers who go above and beyond daily
• 15+ paraprofessionals to provide academic and social support
• A counselor and a social worker to support students in multiple ways
• An on-site nurse to provide medical support
• A Capturing Kids’ Hearts Showcase School three years running
• Art, gym, and music every day
• An active PTO that organizes several activities for students
• Multiple after-school activities
• A beautiful library that students can visit every day
• State-of-the-art technology and technology support
• Many field trips that bring learning to life.
• And that’s just the beginning!