Dear editor:

My name is Charles Rodgers. I am a former employee of Tyler Refrigeration in Niles, which closed down in July 2009.

This at the time seemed to be a very bad time in my life and my family’s life 16 years gone. Also, a month later my father passed away.

There is an old saying one window closes and another one opens; this in my opinion is a true statement.

Tyler Refrigeration and the State of Michigan made available to me and all the employees an  opportunity to further my education and skills.I went through Michigan Works in Dowagiac thanks to Mrs. Pat Oisten and she guided me to go to Southwestern Michigan College. The field I picked was industrial arts. This was paid through the State of Michigan and also provided me unemployment.

I have lived in Niles my whole life and never knew too much about SMC’s Niles campus. My loss.

I just wanted to let everyone know as Niles residents how lucky we are to have such a great college and most of all how lucky we are to have such knowledgeable and most of all, caring teachers. I really cannot say enough about how much they care and give you the encouragement to succeed.

In my case I did not finish the entire term to get my degree. I have decided to go back in the work force because of the great opportunity that has been offered me. This was all because of Southwestern Michigan College. The entire purpose was to further my skills and find employment, which has happened.

I would like to personally thank Mr. Maxwell, my industrial arts teacher; Mr. Kramb, my welding and robotics teacher; Mr. Wheeler, my drafting/blueprint reading teacher; and Mrs. Karwacinski, my English teacher and her assistant, Mrs. Jensencarey. I will never forget them and can never repay them.

The next time you hear bad things about teachers, don’t believe it. We have the best right here in Niles. Also thanks to all the great friends I made at school and who helped me along the way; I will miss you all. Also to the front office of the college; they are a great bunch of people.

Again in Niles we are so lucky to have these teachers and staff. Also, to the management of the college —  when it comes to promotions and pay raises, give them one; they are worth every penny.

I am a road runner forever. Road runner is the college mascot. Remember, the road runner always wins; ask the coyote.

Chuck Rodgers

Niles