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I Yam What I Yam<br />
By Tony Michaels<br />
I am surrounded by great examples of strength<br />
in my life. That statement really hit home during the<br />
past year. Growing up, the notion of strength was best<br />
exemplified for me by watching Popeye cartoons on<br />
the weekends. But decades later, I realized my parents<br />
in the living room would be a much better example<br />
of strength. I included a picture of me with my “Pops”<br />
because my sister Victoria made a voyage to Poland<br />
a few years ago and found out we may be related to<br />
the real-life Popeye. I can totally see it. Can’t you? My<br />
parents sacrificed so much in their lives while working<br />
multiple jobs to give me and my sisters the best life<br />
possible. For that, I am very thankful.<br />
<strong>Siouxland</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong> | Converse / 21<br />
I hope to carry on that characteristic of strength to my<br />
sons. If you read my articles in the past, you probably<br />
know about my son Trey, who happens to be pretty<br />
involved with his autism. How much strength do you<br />
think it takes to be non-verbal in a world that must be<br />
so confusing to him at times? Autism ain’t for weenies!<br />
My youngest son, Beau, is his strongest advocate at<br />
all times! He’s always by his side and leading a great<br />
example to others in his high school. I am very proud<br />
of both of them and how they flex their muscles to their<br />
world. I mean it’s gotta be easy for them. You know,<br />
we’re all related to Popeye. Shiver me timbers!<br />
My lovely wife isn’t as sold on the fact our bloodlines<br />
date back to Frank “Rocky” Feigel but she has other<br />
endearing qualities. A lot has been made about front<br />
line health care workers during the pandemic. I’ve<br />
seen very few reports about the importance of social<br />
workers during this very stressful time for <strong>Siouxland</strong><br />
families. I’m happy to watch her strength as she has<br />
been an in-home social worker for more than a quarter<br />
of a century. I’m not sure what the burnout rate is for<br />
that line of work, but I’m sure it’s less than 25 years!<br />
She’s a rock star! Strong! I’m happy to call her my Olive<br />
Oyl.<br />
One good thing about the Huskers not winning much, you<br />
can buy matching $5 t-shirts! Tony and his father Dennis.<br />
I might go celebrate with a side of spinach. Shiver me<br />
timbers!<br />
Tony Michaels, morning host on “Tony and<br />
Candice” morning show (KSUX 105.7) and<br />
author of an upcoming book “Tacos and Beer<br />
Atmosphere”. Learn more at tacoswithtony.com.<br />
Photos Contributed by Tony Michaels.<br />
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Making a Difference for Small Businesses & Nonprofits<br />
At KSUX, I am amazed at how many nonprofits have<br />
made strong moves to completely pivot away from<br />
traditional fundraising events and go virtual, or some<br />
other creative outlet, to spread the mission of their<br />
agency while still adding money to the bottom line to<br />
make such a positive impact on <strong>Siouxland</strong> residents.<br />
Working to help others may not afford you the luxury<br />
of driving a new Corvette, but I dare say nothing is<br />
stronger than to make the best life possible for your<br />
fellow woman or man.<br />
That’s exactly what my parents did for me. Corvettes<br />
and muscles are nice. But strength comes from within.<br />
It’s easier to learn that when you have great role models<br />
in your life. I am forever grateful.
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