|
I feel compelled to write after reading the wonderful lists of
volunteers on the Island put together by the Americorp group.
I realize that they could not remember everyone, so I would like
to add my grateful thanks to Mike and Sharon Hurkmans for the
tremendous time and energy they put into the Talent Show for the
past couple of years.
This was the 18th annual show, and before they arrived, all we
had to work with for anyone who could not play an instrument was
a CD player and you had to sing along with the singer or do as
I did, a cappella. The Hurkmans never ask for any kind of payment
and also have opened their garage numerous times for practices
and for anyone who would want to come out and use their equipment.
At this time on the Island, when many parents are asking for
activities for their kids to do, we have to ask ourselves why,
when Mike and Sharon offered their services free of charge for
a Karaoke Night at Peaine Twp. Hall, the Youth Consortium threw
it back in their faces and someone said to them “well, I
think kids would rather learn to play an instrument.”
One of my questions to that is: who is going to teach or accompany
them? And where were they when I needed someone to accompany me
all those years ago? My instrument is my voice, as it is with
many of these talented kids. And if not for Kevin White, I never
would have had the chance to sing with music–at least not
until the Hurkmans moved here.
On any given Saturday night , you can find me with my car loaded
with 12-15 kids heading out to Hurkmans’ garage for a karaoke
night. And the wonderful thing is, they don't have to be great
or to find someone to accompany them–it's right there; all
they have to do is add their voice. So maybe we should let them
have a voice and give Mike and Sharon the respect and gratitude
they greatly deserve. If you or your child have not had the opportunity
to do karaoke, give it a try, but please don't judge it or the
Hurkmans until you have.
So thank you Mike and Sharon from me and also the countless number
of kids that are grateful that you chose Beaver Island to live
and that you let us invade your lives and garage.
– Sheri Timsak
The Real Beacon:
Search the Beaver Beacon Web Site & Archive:
|
