Community Member Spotlight:
Throughout life, many people strive to leave a lasting impact on the world around them. While this isn’t always an easy task, Lowell resident Kerri Midkiff did so in many ways.
In March of 2009, Kerri was diagnosed with breast cancer. Because of her strong faith and passion for others, four years later she decided to help others going through the same thing. She did this through the creation of The Hope Center, based out of Lowell Church of Christ. The Hope Center was founded in order to provide emotional support and informational resources to families battling cancer in Northwest Indiana.
The Hope Center organizes many events and fundraisers in order to better the organization and its members. Through this, they have impacted countless families and community members.
On June 3, The Hope Center organized “A Journey of Hope.” This was a 2.5 mile walk throughout Lowell for National Cancer Survivors Day. Afterwards there was an outdoor worship service, followed by a picnic. Hundreds of people participated in the event.
“She was the most courageous warrior when it came to battling cancer, yet at the same time the most compassionate and caring supporter to others in their battle,” said Brian, Kerri's husband.There are few people that are able to make an impact like she did in such a short life-time.
Sadly, on May 7th, Kerri passed away. Though Kerri’s journey on this earth has ended, her impact will live on forever through all the lives she’s touched.
What’s Going On:
On May 25, Lowell High School hosted a cancer walk in order to raise money for the Hope Center. The event gathered around 600 participants, in turn raising $1,290 for the cause.
The boy’s track team advanced a significant amount of runners on to the state competition. Alec Fleming, a senior, successfully completed his high school career by getting runner-up in the 3200m run. Also, the 4x800 team of Dustin Hudak, Alex Huseman, Gabe Sanchez, and Caleb Chapman placed 10th overall with a time of 7:57.91.
At the boy’s golf sectionals, Jordan Harris placed 2nd with a score of 75. He advances to regionals as an individual for the third year in a row.
Lowell’s prom was held on May 19. This year’s king and queen were Austin Spudic and Lauren Kaczur.
Lowell’s Got Talent was held on May 26 in the Lowell High School Auditorium. The show consisted of singing, dancing, and stand-up comedy. The winner was Liz Atchley and runner-up was Matt Iwinski.
Student Spotlight:
Annalise James grew up in a competitive family, and this upbringing has helped lead her to success in her sport’s career. Annalise, who is a junior, has competed in the state competition for Track and Field for three consecutive years.
Annalise’s post season began with sectionals, where she placed first in the mile, and second in the 800m run. She explained that her placement in the 800 was difficult to accept due to her competitive nature and because she got sprinted out in the very end of the race. Regardless, her performance in both of these events advanced her to the regional competition.
At regionals, Annalise first raced in the mile where she placed second and ran a personal record of 5:07. After this incredible performance, she explained that her legs were tired and she didn’t get much of a break before the 800, but she still placed 7th.
Annalise’s goal for state was to get at least 9th, which would get her a spot on the podium.
“If it was my best day I think I really could’ve done that. I felt pretty good out there, but it definitely wasn’t my best race. It was very hot and humid,” Annalise said. She ended up placing 13th in the mile with a time of 5:10.
Although she wasn’t completely satisfied with the final result, she explained that her 13th place “motivates me for next year where I’m hoping to break 5 minutes and find myself a place on the state podium.”
What’s Coming Up:
On June 16, there will be a fishing derby at Evergreen Park for children 12 years and under. This is a family friendly event from 9am-12pm. Bait will be provided and prizes will be awarded. This event is hosted by the Lowell Moose Lodge and Lowell Parks Department.
June 21 will be Lowell’s town-wide garage sale day.
Also, on June 29 and 30, there will be signups for the youth fall soccer season. They will be held at the Lowell Town Hall.