Focus Notes - 2/3

When he was five years old, Kees Williams started fishing off his grandfather’s dock. He noticed that he was growing impatient with waiting for a fish to bite, but as soon as he knew it - his dad was helping him reel in a sheepshead. Through the years, Kees has learned that spending quality time with loved ones and practicing patience are not only the most important parts of enjoying fishing, but to enjoying life as well. He says, “Patience helps me to fish because instead of getting bored and anxious, I wait. Patience is a skill that helps me in everyday life.”

Ainsley MacCabe has learned a lot about what it means to be respected as an individual. As a younger sister, she has often felt overlooked due to her brother’s success. Although it may have taken some distance and time, Ainsley has grown to appreciate that her brother’s abilities are something to celebrate, and they do not detract from her own accomplishments, talents or interests. Recently, Ainsley has found a passion for donating food and supplies to local charities. She says, “Being a little sister isn’t what defines me, I am my own person.”

Growing up can be hard to do, but it is a little easier when you spend your summers at the beach. Landon Lewis has spent every summer since he was two years old at either Stone Harbor or Avalon on Seven Mile Island. While these places are home to many of Landon’s childhood memories, he has enjoyed the experience of growing up on the island and learning all the new ways to enjoy the amenities. He says, “From jumping off bridges to eating a bacon, egg and cheese by the beach, Avalon and Stone Harbor will always be second homes to me.”

As a young child, Isaac Kuminsky was filled with the kind of energy one expects a child to have. However, as he grew older, he realized that not only was it challenging to concentrate on lessons, but he needed to be fidgeting constantly. He was eventually tested and diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. The diagnosis gave Isaac an opportunity to implement useful strategies that make everyday life a bit easier. He says, “ADHD has affected me my whole life, but not all of it has been bad. I am excited for the future and what it will bring to me.”