Ceremony taking place April 17
at G-A High School
By Bruce Rolfe
The fifth Galesburg-Augusta Inspirational Alumni Award ceremony is scheduled to take place April 17 and will recognize three G-A graduates and one Galesburg High School graduate.
The G-A IAA celebrates individuals whose endeavors have brought honor to Galesburg-Augusta Community Schools, and who will inspire students on their road to success.
This year’s inductees include David Frank, Linda Carlton, Dr. Pete VanVranken, and Shana Wiese. The ceremony will take place April 17 at 9 a.m. in the G-A High School gym. The event will also be live streamed on the G-A Inspirational Alumni Award Facebook page.
Anyone who wishes to attend the award ceremony at the high school can refer to a quick and easy form available on the G-AIAA Facebook page. This is for school safety for G-A students.
The first G-A IAA ceremony was held in 2022.
Retired G-A teacher Ardis Cook said the idea was originally suggested by former High School Principal Christie Robinson. An individual didn’t necessarily have to graduate from G-A, but previously attended G-A for most of their education and went on to do great things.
The biographies below were provided by the G-A IAA Committee.
Pete VanVranken 1967
Following his graduation in 1967, Pete VanVranken went on to earn his bachelor’s degree (1971) and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (1974) from Michigan State University. Earning these degrees set him on the path for his entire life.
In 1975, Dr. Pete founded the Dickman Road Veterinary Clinic in Battle Creek which is still in operation, recently celebrating its 50th anniversary. This clinic was the first in our area to use licensed technicians. Also, they have worked hard to remain current with advancements in order to provide the best care possible. Although he sold the clinic in 2021, he remains on staff as a veterinarian.
In 1982, he and his wife Sharon opened a veterinary apparel company that also became successful. Since two enterprises were not enough, he also has established his own dog food company, selling products at his pet store in Battle Creek, which he established in 2015. Because of the death of one of his dogs, Dr. Pete discovered that most dog foods contain copper which collects in their bodies and can cause cancer. He was determined to make a healthy alternative.
Although his life as a veterinarian has been very busy and complete, Dr. VanVranken feels that it is important to support and serve in his community. He was a member of the Leroy Township Planning Commission for 25 years and has also served on the Financial Advisory Board of the Battle Creek Foundation and the Arbor Academy School Board.
As a long-time member of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA), Dr. Pete was recently honored with the SPCA Lifetime Achievement Award. Pete and Sharon have been recognized as the 2025 Philanthropists of the Year by the Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine. As a couple they gift a stethoscope to every incoming DVM student and provide scholarships and helped to modernize the Veterinary Medical Center.
Through the wisdom and generosity of Dr. Pete VanVranken, our Galesburg-Augusta impact and outreach continue to grow. Generosity, Guidance, and Growth are his bywords.
Shana Schmidt Wiese—1984
Shana Schmidt Wiese has encouraged and influenced many individuals through her long career in a variety of educational positions for Galesburg-Augusta Community Schools. According to Bob Duke, retired college professor and former Superintendent of Schools in West Michigan, “I made many hiring decisions during the course of my 40-year career, but I’m certain I never hired anyone who would have a greater impact on the lives of people in her community than Shana.”
After graduating from G-A in 1984, Shana obtained a degree in Secondary Education as well as a Masters. She began her career teaching for five years in the adult and community education program at Galesburg-Augusta. This difficult assignment, working with adults of all ages, many who had nothing good to say about their school experiences, prepared her for a successful and influential teaching career at the high school level (6 years), middle school level (18 years), and as a principal at the middle school for 6 years. In her thirty-five-year career, she never lost touch with her G-A roots or her kind and respectful nature.
According to her nominator, “Shana embodies what it means to be a Galesburg-Augusta Ram ... Every student I know who looks back on their time in Shana’s classroom or in her building smiles fondly and can instantly share a memory.” Students knew that she believed in them, and she worked tirelessly on their behalf, providing comfort, safety, support, and positivity.
As an administrator, she was known for empowering her staff and setting an example of putting students and their needs above all else. Community members understood that she was one of them and would always do her best to put G-A and the children first. The teachers in her building, along with the students, felt that she “had their backs” and that she listened to them with her heart.
Shana Wiese “is real. She is dedicated. And, she has spent her life inspiring countless students and faculty.” Her impact will continue to be felt in the district and in the community for many years to come.
Linda Mezo Carlton—1965
When Linda Mezo Carlton graduated from Galesburg-Augusta High School in 1965, she certainly had not expected to one day be Parade Marshal for Greater Galesburg Day or honored as Mrs. Santa for Winter Wonderland in Galesburg. It is difficult to describe all the ways that Linda has influenced life in Galesburg.
Following graduation, Linda attended Wright Beauty Academy in Battle Creek and obtained her beautician license. Before long she opened her own Sensations Salon becoming a well-recognized business owner/entrepreneur in Galesburg for well over 50 years.
Early on she was busy as a single mom raising two children and supporting them by attending their extra-curricular activities. According to her daughter, she “never missed one” of their events. Linda was well-recognized for her loyalty, her dedication to her family, and her care for clients at the salon.
Later, Linda turned to community affairs and remains involved in the Galesburg community to this day. Linda recognizes that it takes many people to make events happen, but it is her “perseverance and dedication” that make special events actually become reality. If you have watched the fireworks at Winter Wonderland, thank Linda Carlton. If you have handed out candy at the Greater Galesburg Day Parade or eaten hot dogs or played the games, thank Linda Carlton. She doesn’t do it all herself (after all, she is only one person), but she is the organizer, the energy, the driving force behind many of the special events in Galesburg. As a member of DDA (Downtown Development Authority), she assists with the city decorations, obtaining monetary grants, and working hard to encourage pride in our city. She also is a long time member and at times president of Galesburg Area Business and Community Association. Linda was the hairdresser for the Little Miss Galesburg and the Miss Galesburg pageants for many years from when it began until the pageant was no longer held.
Words that have been used to describe Linda Mezo Carlton are “amazing,” “dedicated, honorable, trustworthy, funny,” and an exemplary force for good in our community. Thank you and Congratulations, Linda!
David Frank—1950
Today’s students at G-A do not have memories of the Park Theater in Augusta. But for many of their grandparents and other members of the community, the Park Theater means special things like a first kiss, a chastisement from a respected adult, a place to meet friends, and a place to learn about patriotism. David Frank, a 1950 Galesburg graduate, owned the theater from 1957 until it closed in 1996, although opening for special events for several more years.
David Frank remains an inspiration to many because of his undying commitment to the community and his preservation of a historical landmark and way of life. He has lived his entire life in Augusta, even making the theater his home. The Franks had a heritage in the theater business, as his father built the Park in Augusta and also ran a theater in Galesburg. His grandmother ran an Opera House in Wayland, MI.
The Park Theater is distinctive as a single screen theater that began each showing with an introduction of the movie by Mr. Frank standing beside the flag and the playing of the “Star Spangled Banner.” David greeted guests in the lobby, wearing his traditional blue suit coat and red bow tie. His wife could be found in the ticket booth selling tickets or reading.
The Franks shared their love of reading with Augusta by assisting with summer reading programs and many special events with the McKay Library. For as many years as he was able, he helped to kick off the summer reading program by showing a free movie that supported the program’s theme. At Christmas each year, the Franks collaborated with other Augusta Merchants to hold a party for the local children which culminated in a drawing for a free bicycle.
In 2001, the Park Theater was designated as a historic landmark. The marker states, in part, that the theater, an “Art Moderne-inspired structure is a Quonset hut attached to a masonry lobby.” Over 3,000 films were shown in the single-screen theater.
David Frank “is a key part of childhood lore” of the Augusta and Galesburg Boomer generation. He was honored on the McKay Library sign: “You Are One Classy Muggle, Dave Frank!!”
The fifth Galesburg-Augusta Inspirational Alumni Award ceremony is scheduled to take place April 17 and will recognize three G-A graduates and one Galesburg High School graduate.
The G-A IAA celebrates individuals whose endeavors have brought honor to Galesburg-Augusta Community Schools, and who will inspire students on their road to success.
This year’s inductees include David Frank, Linda Carlton, Dr. Pete VanVranken, and Shana Wiese. The ceremony will take place April 17 at 9 a.m. in the G-A High School gym. The event will also be live streamed on the G-A Inspirational Alumni Award Facebook page.
Anyone who wishes to attend the award ceremony at the high school can refer to a quick and easy form available on the G-AIAA Facebook page. This is for school safety for G-A students.
The first G-A IAA ceremony was held in 2022.
Retired G-A teacher Ardis Cook said the idea was originally suggested by former High School Principal Christie Robinson. An individual didn’t necessarily have to graduate from G-A, but previously attended G-A for most of their education and went on to do great things.
The biographies below were provided by the G-A IAA Committee.
Pete VanVranken 1967
Following his graduation in 1967, Pete VanVranken went on to earn his bachelor’s degree (1971) and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (1974) from Michigan State University. Earning these degrees set him on the path for his entire life.
In 1975, Dr. Pete founded the Dickman Road Veterinary Clinic in Battle Creek which is still in operation, recently celebrating its 50th anniversary. This clinic was the first in our area to use licensed technicians. Also, they have worked hard to remain current with advancements in order to provide the best care possible. Although he sold the clinic in 2021, he remains on staff as a veterinarian.
In 1982, he and his wife Sharon opened a veterinary apparel company that also became successful. Since two enterprises were not enough, he also has established his own dog food company, selling products at his pet store in Battle Creek, which he established in 2015. Because of the death of one of his dogs, Dr. Pete discovered that most dog foods contain copper which collects in their bodies and can cause cancer. He was determined to make a healthy alternative.
Although his life as a veterinarian has been very busy and complete, Dr. VanVranken feels that it is important to support and serve in his community. He was a member of the Leroy Township Planning Commission for 25 years and has also served on the Financial Advisory Board of the Battle Creek Foundation and the Arbor Academy School Board.
As a long-time member of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA), Dr. Pete was recently honored with the SPCA Lifetime Achievement Award. Pete and Sharon have been recognized as the 2025 Philanthropists of the Year by the Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine. As a couple they gift a stethoscope to every incoming DVM student and provide scholarships and helped to modernize the Veterinary Medical Center.
Through the wisdom and generosity of Dr. Pete VanVranken, our Galesburg-Augusta impact and outreach continue to grow. Generosity, Guidance, and Growth are his bywords.
Shana Schmidt Wiese—1984
Shana Schmidt Wiese has encouraged and influenced many individuals through her long career in a variety of educational positions for Galesburg-Augusta Community Schools. According to Bob Duke, retired college professor and former Superintendent of Schools in West Michigan, “I made many hiring decisions during the course of my 40-year career, but I’m certain I never hired anyone who would have a greater impact on the lives of people in her community than Shana.”
After graduating from G-A in 1984, Shana obtained a degree in Secondary Education as well as a Masters. She began her career teaching for five years in the adult and community education program at Galesburg-Augusta. This difficult assignment, working with adults of all ages, many who had nothing good to say about their school experiences, prepared her for a successful and influential teaching career at the high school level (6 years), middle school level (18 years), and as a principal at the middle school for 6 years. In her thirty-five-year career, she never lost touch with her G-A roots or her kind and respectful nature.
According to her nominator, “Shana embodies what it means to be a Galesburg-Augusta Ram ... Every student I know who looks back on their time in Shana’s classroom or in her building smiles fondly and can instantly share a memory.” Students knew that she believed in them, and she worked tirelessly on their behalf, providing comfort, safety, support, and positivity.
As an administrator, she was known for empowering her staff and setting an example of putting students and their needs above all else. Community members understood that she was one of them and would always do her best to put G-A and the children first. The teachers in her building, along with the students, felt that she “had their backs” and that she listened to them with her heart.
Shana Wiese “is real. She is dedicated. And, she has spent her life inspiring countless students and faculty.” Her impact will continue to be felt in the district and in the community for many years to come.
Linda Mezo Carlton—1965
When Linda Mezo Carlton graduated from Galesburg-Augusta High School in 1965, she certainly had not expected to one day be Parade Marshal for Greater Galesburg Day or honored as Mrs. Santa for Winter Wonderland in Galesburg. It is difficult to describe all the ways that Linda has influenced life in Galesburg.
Following graduation, Linda attended Wright Beauty Academy in Battle Creek and obtained her beautician license. Before long she opened her own Sensations Salon becoming a well-recognized business owner/entrepreneur in Galesburg for well over 50 years.
Early on she was busy as a single mom raising two children and supporting them by attending their extra-curricular activities. According to her daughter, she “never missed one” of their events. Linda was well-recognized for her loyalty, her dedication to her family, and her care for clients at the salon.
Later, Linda turned to community affairs and remains involved in the Galesburg community to this day. Linda recognizes that it takes many people to make events happen, but it is her “perseverance and dedication” that make special events actually become reality. If you have watched the fireworks at Winter Wonderland, thank Linda Carlton. If you have handed out candy at the Greater Galesburg Day Parade or eaten hot dogs or played the games, thank Linda Carlton. She doesn’t do it all herself (after all, she is only one person), but she is the organizer, the energy, the driving force behind many of the special events in Galesburg. As a member of DDA (Downtown Development Authority), she assists with the city decorations, obtaining monetary grants, and working hard to encourage pride in our city. She also is a long time member and at times president of Galesburg Area Business and Community Association. Linda was the hairdresser for the Little Miss Galesburg and the Miss Galesburg pageants for many years from when it began until the pageant was no longer held.
Words that have been used to describe Linda Mezo Carlton are “amazing,” “dedicated, honorable, trustworthy, funny,” and an exemplary force for good in our community. Thank you and Congratulations, Linda!
David Frank—1950
Today’s students at G-A do not have memories of the Park Theater in Augusta. But for many of their grandparents and other members of the community, the Park Theater means special things like a first kiss, a chastisement from a respected adult, a place to meet friends, and a place to learn about patriotism. David Frank, a 1950 Galesburg graduate, owned the theater from 1957 until it closed in 1996, although opening for special events for several more years.
David Frank remains an inspiration to many because of his undying commitment to the community and his preservation of a historical landmark and way of life. He has lived his entire life in Augusta, even making the theater his home. The Franks had a heritage in the theater business, as his father built the Park in Augusta and also ran a theater in Galesburg. His grandmother ran an Opera House in Wayland, MI.
The Park Theater is distinctive as a single screen theater that began each showing with an introduction of the movie by Mr. Frank standing beside the flag and the playing of the “Star Spangled Banner.” David greeted guests in the lobby, wearing his traditional blue suit coat and red bow tie. His wife could be found in the ticket booth selling tickets or reading.
The Franks shared their love of reading with Augusta by assisting with summer reading programs and many special events with the McKay Library. For as many years as he was able, he helped to kick off the summer reading program by showing a free movie that supported the program’s theme. At Christmas each year, the Franks collaborated with other Augusta Merchants to hold a party for the local children which culminated in a drawing for a free bicycle.
In 2001, the Park Theater was designated as a historic landmark. The marker states, in part, that the theater, an “Art Moderne-inspired structure is a Quonset hut attached to a masonry lobby.” Over 3,000 films were shown in the single-screen theater.
David Frank “is a key part of childhood lore” of the Augusta and Galesburg Boomer generation. He was honored on the McKay Library sign: “You Are One Classy Muggle, Dave Frank!!”
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