Teachers, neighbors, coworkers, family members, mentors, friends, coaches. Whoever the people in your life may be, they can always use a bit of encouragement and recognition for the difference they are making in others and in their community. We were able to shine the spotlight on hundreds of lives in the Region that continue to make their corner of the world a brighter place.
In no particular order, here are the top 10 Life in the Spotlight articles on Portage.Life in 2021:
A Portage Life in the Spotlight: Rachel Calderone
Rachel Calderone isn’t originally from the Region, but she loves to call Northwest Indiana home. As an alumnus of Hanover Central High School, Calderone first moved here at the beginning of her high school career and hasn’t looked back since. As a teacher at Portage High School and one of our Lifers, Rachel loves to spread positivity and help her students appreciate the Region.
A Portage Life in the Spotlight: Jessica Cruse
From cheerleader with a mentor to cheer coach and mentor herself, Jessica Cruse teaches the power of kindness and confidence to area youth through NWI Champion Force Athletics.
Cruse started cheering at age eight in what was then called Young Champions at Woodland Park. Having played soccer, basketball and volleyball, Cruse clearly has a love for sports. When Champion Force was new to the area, Cruse and her older sister got a flyer from school and decided to try it out and joined. Soon after, their mom even got involved as a parent helper and secretary.
A Portage Life in the Spotlight: Brandon King
Brandon King takes the phrase “all the world’s a stage” to heart. The Portage native has always had a life-long passion for stand-up comedy, and he’s working hard to turn it into a full-time career.
His love for comedy began as a child, long before he even knew where his passion would take him.
A Portage Life in the Spotlight: Joyce Russell
Joyce Russell has dedicated her life to telling others’ stories, and now her own story gets to be told. As a Northwest Indiana native, Russell has lived in Portage for 42 years. During this time, she has worked as a newspaper reporter.
A Portage Life in the Spotlight: Sally Beyers Reynolds
Sally Beyers Reynolds believes that commitment is an important skill to teach others, so much so that she has been volunteering with Job’s Daughters International for 35 years to do so. Originally from Terre Haute, Reynolds moved to Portage 44 years ago after meeting her husband while attending Purdue University.
A Portage Life in the Spotlight: Ameenah Arnetta Abdulla
Although Ameenah Arnetta Abdulla has plenty on her plate as the owner of NuU Beauty Supply in Portage, she is also a real estate agent for Century 21 Alliance Group. While she is a devoted business owner and real estate agent, Abdulla is truly dedicated to her family and community.
A Portage Life in the Spotlight: Jodi Newby
Jodi Newby was destined to be a teacher for many reasons, and her journey at both Portage High School and A License to Drive over the years has left an incredible impact on those who have been lucky enough to learn from her.
A Portage Life in the Spotlight: Zachary Rudd
“My true passion is developing the next generation and being someone they can rely on.”
This is what Zachary Rudd had to say about his work at Real Life Community Church in Portage. Working as the Worship and Student Ministry Director there for three years, Rudd has made it his mission to be a strong role model in the community.
A Portage Life in the Spotlight: Robin Wilkening
“I’ve always tried to do good for all people.”
This is what Robin Wilkening had to say about her role as a Portage Township Trustee. Working for the Portage Township for nearly 11 years now, Wilkening was recently promoted to Director of the Bonner Senior Center, her prior position being an interviewer. The organization provides various utilities and services like meals, exercise classes, and social meetings for senior citizens. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Bonner Senior Center has been working diligently to provide its services through alternative methods, such as curbside pick-up and delivery for meals.
A Portage Life in the Spotlight: Trent Howard
Trent Howard is a man dedicated to the shaping of children’s lives all over the City of Portage. As a School Resource Officer (SRO), Howard works to serve as an exemplary role model for youngsters and encourages them to do their best in life.