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White Construction's Lydia Aalsma: High School Athlete of the Week

2024-12-02

Lydia Aalsma, a remarkable athlete from Waupun Area High School, has been named the White Construction Athlete of the Week. Her journey in sports and life is filled with inspiring moments and valuable lessons.

Uncover the Athletic Journey of Lydia Aalsma

Sports Participation

Lydia's athletic prowess shines through in two sports - basketball and track. Her dedication and hard work on the court and track have earned her numerous accolades.In basketball, she showcases her skills and teamwork, while in track, she pushes her limits and achieves great feats. Her diverse participation in these sports reflects her passion and determination.

Favorite High School Athletic Moments

Winning the state championship as a freshman was a defining moment in Lydia's athletic career. The feeling of accomplishment and the memories made with her teammates are unforgettable.Running at the state level as a junior was another highlight. It demonstrated her growth and ability to compete at a higher level. These moments have shaped her into the athlete she is today.

Pre-Game/Event Routine

Listening to music is a crucial part of Lydia's pre-game routine. It helps her focus and get into the right mindset. The rhythm and lyrics of her favorite tunes provide the energy she needs to perform at her best.Grabbing a McDonald's Coke is also a small but significant part of her routine. It gives her a moment of relaxation and enjoyment before the competition.

Advice to Freshman High School Athletes

Lydia emphasizes the importance of giving oneself time to grow in confidence. It's natural to have ups and downs in performance, but athletes should not let it affect their self-esteem.She advises them to stay focused on their goals and not get too high or too low based on individual performances. Building a strong mental attitude is key to success in sports.

Person with a Major Impact on Athletic Career

Lydia's sister Abbie has had a profound impact on her athletic career. Abbie's hard work and determination have served as an inspiration for Lydia.She has shown how perseverance pays off and how to not let others' opinions influence one's self-worth. Lydia credits her sister for helping her develop a strong sense of self and a love for sports.

Plans After Graduation

Lydia is set to attend the University of St. Thomas in MN. She hopes to pursue a career in marketing, using her skills and experiences in sports to succeed in the business world.Her academic and athletic pursuits will continue to shape her future and help her achieve her goals.

Favorite High School Class

English was Lydia's favorite high school class. The subject allowed her to explore different literary works and develop her writing and critical thinking skills.It opened her eyes to the power of words and how they can convey emotions and ideas.

Favorite High School Teacher

Mr. Fitch, her AP psychology teacher, had a significant impact on Lydia. His teaching style, which was based on relatability, made the subject come alive for her.She was able to connect with the material and gain a deeper understanding of psychology. His guidance and support have stayed with her.

Most Interesting Place Visited

Mackinac Island holds a special place in Lydia's heart. The beauty and history of the island left a lasting impression on her.She enjoyed exploring the island's architecture and taking in the natural scenery. It was a truly memorable experience.

Place She Would Like to Visit

Greece is at the top of Lydia's travel wish list. The rich culture and ancient history of the country intrigue her.She dreams of visiting the famous ruins and experiencing the local way of life. It's a place that holds a lot of fascination for her.

Favorite Movie

"Gladiator" is Lydia's favorite movie. The story of courage and perseverance in the face of adversity resonates with her.It inspires her to be strong and face challenges with determination.

Favorite TV Show

"Gilmore Girls" is her go-to TV show. The characters and their relationships are relatable and entertaining.It provides a break from the stress of sports and allows her to unwind.

Favorite Musical Artist

Zach Bryan's music speaks to Lydia. His lyrics and melodies capture her emotions and take her on a musical journey.She finds solace and inspiration in his songs.

Favorite Sports Team

The Bucks are Lydia's favorite sports team. She loves the excitement and energy of basketball and cheers for her team with passion.The team's success and spirit have become an important part of her life.If you have a question about this story or have an idea for a future local sports story, please email ddsports@goodkarmabrands.com.Previous White Construction Athlete of the Week features include:9/2/24 – Ben Brown – Beaver Dam High School 9/9/24 – Andrea Riesen – Wayland Academy9/16/24 – Tabitha Buwalda – Central Wisconsin Christian9/23/24 – Lauren Moldenhauer – Markesan9/30/24 – Joy Mielke – Beaver Dam High School 10/7/24 – Emma Hellebrand – Marshall10/14/24 – Mallory Kohn – Dodgeland10/21/24 – Taylor Schaumberg – Lomira10/28/24 – Colton Pickart – Dodgeland11/4/24 – Addie Dowe – Beaver Dam11/11/24 – Blake Hartman – Beaver Dam11/18/24 – Sam Porras – Wayland11/25/24 – Lexi Sobrilsky – Beaver Dam High School12/2/24 – Lydia Aalsma – Waupun

Skilled trades workers are truly in high demand, and Lincoln County is no exception. The Oregon Office of Economic Analysis has clearly indicated that many trades workers are reaching retirement age and leaving a significant gap in the availability of skilled workers. This situation presents both challenges and opportunities.

Unlock Career Opportunities with PACT Programs

Oregon Coast Community College's Role

Oregon Coast Community College is playing a crucial role in addressing this workforce shortage. Alongside industry partners like the Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI) and Northwest Oregon Works, they are working hard to introduce career opportunities through the Pre-Apprenticeship for Construction Trades (PACT) programs. These programs are designed to train and prepare individuals for successful careers in the construction trades. By providing hands-on training and practical experience, students gain the skills and knowledge needed to enter the workforce with confidence.

For example, students have the opportunity to work on real construction projects under the guidance of experienced instructors. This practical experience allows them to apply what they have learned in the classroom and develop valuable problem-solving skills. Additionally, the PACT programs offer networking opportunities with industry professionals, which can lead to job placements and long-term career success.

Industry Partners' Contributions

The Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI) and Northwest Oregon Works are also making significant contributions to filling the gap in skilled trades workers. BOLI provides valuable resources and support to ensure that the PACT programs meet industry standards and regulations. They work closely with the college and industry partners to develop curriculum and training programs that are relevant and in demand.

Northwest Oregon Works, on the other hand, focuses on connecting job seekers with employment opportunities. They help place PACT program graduates in construction trades jobs and provide ongoing support to help them succeed in their careers. Through their partnerships and outreach efforts, they are able to reach a wide range of individuals and introduce them to the exciting world of skilled trades.

The Benefits of Skilled Trades Careers

Choosing a career in the skilled trades offers numerous benefits. Firstly, there is a high demand for skilled trades workers, which means job security and good earning potential. According to recent statistics, skilled trades workers earn an average of $60,000 to $80,000 per year, depending on the trade and level of experience.

Secondly, skilled trades careers offer a sense of satisfaction and pride. Workers get to see the tangible results of their work and contribute to the development of their communities. Whether it's building a new home, repairing a bridge, or installing electrical systems, skilled trades workers play a vital role in society.

Encouraging More People to Pursue Skilled Trades

To meet the growing demand for skilled trades workers, it is important to encourage more people to pursue these careers. Schools and colleges need to promote the benefits of skilled trades and provide students with the necessary resources and support.

Parents and educators also have a role to play in inspiring students to consider careers in the skilled trades. By sharing real-life examples of successful trades workers and highlighting the opportunities available, they can help students make informed decisions about their future careers. Additionally, government agencies and industry organizations can work together to develop marketing campaigns and outreach programs to attract more people to the skilled trades.

In conclusion, the high demand for skilled trades workers in Lincoln County presents a unique opportunity for individuals to pursue rewarding careers. Through the efforts of Oregon Coast Community College, industry partners, and various stakeholders, we can fill the gap in the workforce and ensure a bright future for the construction trades industry.

The Margaritaville Beach Resort Fort Myers Beach aims to immerse guests in the easy-breezy, laid-back vacation vibe that the Jimmy Buffett–founded brand is renowned for. After all, the resort boasts a bar called 5 O’Clock Somewhere. However, for this one-year-old resort, reaching this goal was far from easy. The project faced a long and arduous approval and groundbreaking process, but this lengthy journey ensured that the property started on the best possible footing within a community deeply passionate about its Estero Island home.

Surviving Nature's Fury: The Resort's Design

During the resort's building process, it faced a severe test when Hurricane Ian devastated Estero Island in 2022. The first building had just been topped off, and the second beachside building was almost ready. Ian sent a 16-foot storm surge rushing through the property. But there was a silver lining - the storm confirmed the effectiveness of the project's design. The resort's buildings sit on almost 150 piles driven into the ground, ranging from 40 to 100 feet deep. Picture an oil rig to envision how the water flowed through the site. The walls are breakaway walls designed to let the water flow through the building. This design choice allowed the buildings to withstand the worst that Mother Nature could throw at them. Some design choices, like elevation, were dictated by FEMA due to the resort's location on a barrier island. In other cases, ownership made the choice to add extra resiliency, such as putting the beachfront pool on piles. This ensures the longevity of the resort as the pool has its own pile foundation that keeps it attached to the ground and will never pop out.

Providing Hope and Opportunities

When the resort opened in December 2023, it welcomed guests to a different version of the destination. It provided job opportunities for long-time hospitality workers whose previous employers had suffered storm damage. It not only attracted visitors but also offered a place where locals could gather and forget their troubles for a while. There is a strong local community that craves entertainment and life. The resort felt honored to be in a position to provide this experience. The island changed after Hurricane Ian, but the resort knew it had something special - something that would withstand future events.

Preparing for the Future

As the resort gets ready to enter its second year, it is balancing optimism with pragmatism. They are just starting to plan the 2025 budget and questioning whether to budget for a month of disruption during hurricane season. The answer seems to be no. They need to budget for a full year as they never know when disruption will occur and must be prepared to deal with it. Having the proper insurance in place is crucial. For a resort of this size, one day of closure means a significant loss of revenue. They need to ensure that when they are not open, it is due to an insurable event. Building a strong team is also vital. The resort employs between 390 and 460 people depending on the time of year, and these employees are the ones who interact with guests and create happiness. Without them, the resort would not exist.

The Enduring Spirit of Fort Myers Beach

Despite the changes on Estero Island, many things have remained the same. The personality of Fort Myers Beach, that genuine coastal Florida charm, is still alive. The authenticity of the island did not wash away with Hurricane Ian. And the biggest tourist attraction, the beach, is still there, as beautiful as ever. It is this enduring spirit that makes the Margaritaville Beach Resort Fort Myers Beach a special place.