Father of the Year Contest
Win a FREE Sampler Gift Box
Dads! They are our rock! If we are girls- we are Daddy's little princess- and if we are boys- they teach us how to play baseball and football. Give Dad a present he is sure to enjoy - Better Made Snack Foods! Vote for " Dad of the Year"! NOW!
The Dad of the winning entry will receive a delicious Better Made sampler gift box!
Stories can be submitted via e-mail to info@bettermadesnackfoods.com, Facebook,
Twitter, or by sending in an entry to Better Made Father's Day Contest, 10148 Gratiot Avenue, Detroit, MI 48213.
All submissions will be posted on the Better Made website. The winner will be chosen on Father's Day Sunday, June 19th.
*The Better Made Snack Foods father's day contest prize was incorrectly published in the Oakland Press as receiving a sampler gift box for a year, instead of just one time. We are sorry for any inconvenience this may have caused.
Dad of the Year 2011- Carey Ferguson
I would like to nominate Carey Ferguson for Better Made's Dad of the Year contest.
Not only is Carey the biggest and greatest Better Made Fan and supporter, (he refuses to buy anything else) but he is also the world's greatest dad. He is the father to a 4 year old girl, Teagan and also the step-father to a 15 year old boy, Bryant, who he treats just like he was his own. He's the perfect combination of disciplinarian and friend. He's great buddies with my son, even though they have NOTHING in common. Teagan is daddy's little girl. He would do anything for anybody if it is within his powers. He's a great friend to everyone he meets. He's got that type of personality that makes everyone just love him.
He's very dependable, if he says he is going to do something for you, he does it. He's always doing special little things for us. Whether it is buying a video game for Bryant or picking me up a purse just because he loves me or buying stickers for Teagan's sticker book, he is always thinking about his family. He takes on so much around the house as well. He does all the yard work, the laundry, dishes, bills, and so much more. Sometimes I think we all take him for granted, which is why I think he deserves this prize.
He would think he is the luckiest man alive, not only knowing his family loves him, but that it would be a Better Made prize. He would proudly display and talk about it for years to come. He even has his Better Made T-shirt he wears constantly. He told me for Father's day he wants a gift basket of Better Made stuff or a gift card for The Detroit Shoppe so he can buy his own Better Made products. So this prize would be perfect. I hope you please consider him for it. I may not be the best writer of all time, but he does certainly deserve this.
Heather Ferguson, Sterling Heights, MI
Dad of the Year 2010- Chris Fisher
My husband, Chris Fisher, is The Daddy of the Year because he puts his family first and loves the results. Our 2 children have the honor to call him Daddy, every evening when he walks through that door. He's the "tough guy" when someone is naughty, and leads them the right way. He's got little mimic in his son, Bo. You can see the resemblance, especially in camo. His daughter, Brighid, has him wrapped around her little finger and he wouldn't have it any other way.
Next is his country. He is a Michigan Air National Guardsman and helps to protect our country. His duties as a Captain in command of a maintenance wing include keeping his men safe, so they can come home to their families. He knows his fellow airmen by name and knows their families too. He has on many told me stories about their children and how happy he is to make sure they know Family is First!
He has great examples to learn by, both in the military and his family. He knows the meaning of love and he finds it here at home!
Please consider my husband, Christopher Fisher of Garden City, MI, for the Father of the Year award!
Thank you
GayLynn Fisher
2011 Contest Entries
I would like to nominate my father, John Zakens, for "Better Made's Dad of the Year." What makes my Dad so special is that he would do anything for us six kids or his eight grandkids. To cheer you up, lend a hand, whatever it takes, my Dad is always there. My Dad is not a loud person who commands the attention of everyone. He is quiet and observant and is always good for a joke. When we were kids, it was not uncommon to find us outside playing baseball, kickball, football, etc. with our Dad.
My Dad taught us "Crazy Eights" and "Solitaire" card games. Whatever we were playing, my Dad taught us to always have fun and that it was okay to lose. He still continues to play catch and have game nights with us kids and now, grandkids. We all have fun, even when we lose. When I think of spending quality time with my Dad today, I'd have to say that sitting it the kitchen watching old movies and sharing a bag of fresh, plain Better Made's is a perfect day. I don't need tons of stimulation; I just like to be with the man I regard as the best Dad ever!
I love you, Dad! Michelle
Our dad, Ken Kolb should be "Dad of the Year", At the present time, he works two jobs to help put us through college. He wants us to get an education to get a good job and work hard to get what we want in life. He made sure we were always involved in school activities so that we would not get into any trouble. There were times where money was tight and he always made sure we got anything we asked for as long as we earned it. We did household chores such as cut the grass, throw out the garbage and help clean up the house. He is truly a great role model and we are very proud to say he is a wonderful dad who made us feel like we were #1 in his life.
He would always share funny stories about growing up with us and the one we will always remember is when our grandpa told grandma to buy him his Better Made Potato Chips. We can remember on a Friday night when we would go over there house to spend the night our grandpa would be sitting in his recliner with a huge bag of the chips on his lap. The next thing you know, he had huge handful and he was pushing them in his mouth. We would laugh because no one ever got a chance to grab some because he had them gone within a few minutes. We sure miss our grandpa and Better Made has been a part of our family for years. It is nice to have the wonderful memories of both and be able to carry on our stories to our kids in the future.
Thanks to our dad for giving us so much to be proud and happy about--we sure think he is the "Dad of the Year."
Love,
Kenny and Kyler Kolb
I'd like to nominate my husband, Kevin, as Father of the Year. When thinking about this entry, I knew I could simply list the many "things" that Kevin does each and every day for me and his three sons -- fixing toys, playing games, taking walks, changing diapers, running errands, cooking dinner, cleaning the bathroom, etc. I could go on and on. And while those things are very important parts of what make him a great father and husband, they aren't what make him a Father of the Year.
He is a Father of the Year because he chooses to challenge himself daily to be a better father, a better husband, and a better man than he was the day before. He never settles for "good enough" when it comes to the goal of raising his sons to be great men. And His self-less devotion to making sure his family consistently comes first in his life is done quietly and honestly, because he feels it is the right thing to do as a man and father, not because it is what society expects.
Adriane De Ceuninck
My dad is the best dad he cooks, cleans, works really hard, takes 4 kids to all different sporting events. My dad does so much for me, although he didn't fight off a bear or anything he is still my dad and without him i don't know what i would do. My dad is a loving, caring, funny, man and HE DID FIGHT A BEAR HE PUNCHED HIM RIGHT IN THE HEAD! (TWIN SISTER). My dad has worked so hard to help his kids and my mom to make sure we are healthy and safe!
He is a really good hockey player! he has helped me so much with hockey! he loves going to different sporting events like hockey, soccer, dance, and much more! He spends most of his money on me, my brother, my twin sister and my little sister, and i feel so bad because of how much he does for us. But even if he doesn't win this year or the next year he will still be the best dad i ever know!
Paige & Brooke LaDouceur (11)
We would like to nominate our dad and papa, Frank Blowers for dad of the year.
He is one of the most unselfish people we know. He thinks about everyone else before himself. He is one of the best people to talk to when you are feeling down, when you need advice or if you just want to talk. He has taken the time out of his busy schedule to coach his three grandsons' in basketball. He very rarely misses any of their football games. He takes his granddaughter out to dinner just to spend time with her. His grandchildren are his pride and joy and he spends time with them and speaks of them every opportunity he gets.
We could go on and on about all the wonderful things he does but we have summed up what an incredible man he is.
Happy Father's Day, Dad
We love you, Traci, John, Jodi, Bill, Ariana, Brendan, Joey and Jacob
I would like to nominate my daddy Scott. We have been through fights lately and I want him to know I love him. He works all day at a school in a different city, and the coaches a different wrestling team in another. Even though he might be the busiest dad in the world he always has time for me. Whether it is going to my swim meet, or my field day, he is always there. I have been so upset lately that I tell him I don't like him. This package of samplers will help him know I do.
We have had so many great times together and me and my brother want to give him the best present in the world. If he could get a sampler pack, and if he was nominated and won, he would be the happiest man alive. I have attached a photo of us on vacation. I was a real brat!!! But he didn't tell me that though. I love my dad so much and want him to know that. Hope you pick my dad for father of the year, because no matter if he wins, he will always be.
My dad comforts me and puts me first. I love him even though he might get mad sometimes, and I want him to know that. My dad should be dad of the year because he is. No dad, or human on this planet, could ever take his place for the better. And as long as we live on this earth together, I will always be his little girl. His baby B. (That's my nick name) Good luck to all the Dads out there. I know your kids think YOU are the best.
My Dad
He loves me and makes me smile
Even when I want to cry I yell and scream at him
And he hugs me for a long
Long time
He reassures me I had done my best
When I place last in an event
My dad loves me and makes me smile
And I will love him for a long
Long while
Anya W.
My dad is the best dad because he plays with me, takes me fishing and comes to all my school stuff. That's how most essays start, not mine, my dad wasn't able to do all of those things with me because he worked- allot- to provide for my family. What my dad did do for me was even better. On Sundays he would take me to the shopping mall, not to shop but to teach me how to drive, and back up, and look both ways (without the radio). He taught me why it was important to vote and to listen to other peoples opinions because I might learn from them. He showed me by example to go to work everyday because people count on you to show up, and to respect my friends and family. My dad is 73 yrs. old now and is still teaching me things that will stay with me forever. The biggest thing my dad did for me was to show me love, compassion,courage and what being a great dad is.
Kimm Polick
I am writing bettermade about a special man I call dad. He is not my blood dad, but that has never mattered. I'm forty-seven years old and the special man I call dad is Estill. Stephenson, he is my best friend's also. My real dad works midnights and never could take us to a lot of evening events. After losing my mother at eight years old, my special dad to me , took me to my first concerts and events, outings, so my real could work , and also sleep.
After forty- four years later were so close, and my real dad pasted away, he always was there for me, anywhere, any time, and I love him dearly. HE IS A WONDERFUL MAN I CALL DAD! Just wanted to put in for the fathers day contest.
Nancy Harrelson
My pops will always be my dad of the year. He is going to be 90 this year, a WWII vet, always provided a good home for mom, myself and brothers and numerous cousins who lived with us at one time or another. He's also been the greatest grandpa and now great grandpa. Love ya' Henry Metz!!! :-)
Joy Metz Mislevy
My dad is a father of 4. He has worked everyday in the same loud, hot factory for the last 39 years to make sure that he was able to provide for his family first and then himself. He has sacrificed his dreams and some of his own health by doing so. (He has had significant hearing loss). He was diagnosed with Spina Bifida when he was younger and told he would be in a wheelchair by the time he was 50.
He is now 57 and still going strong. He would give anyone the shirt off his back if they were in need, or even if they simply asked. I have never known him to say no to someone in need, from something as simple as lending a few dollars here and there, to helping someone move across country. He can make friends with anyone in seconds. My dad is a great man and should be honored, he is in my home.
BTW all 4 of us kids are now grown up, out of the house with our own kids. He is also a fantastic grandpa.
Adam Landes
I nominate my dad, Randy Birk. He has helped out by babysitting my boys whenever asked, sometimes at the very last minute. He picks the best presents for everybody. But , more importantly, our youngest son, Colin, was born with several heart defects and my dad was there to kiss him before he went to surgery at 9 days old. He was there the whole time we waited for him to come out of surgery. He sat by Colin's bedside in the pediatric ICU almost every evening because I had to be at home with my older sons while my husband worked.
He was there for us and Colin until the day Colin died, a little over a year ago, just shy of 4 months old. He was the last person to stay with us at the hospital the night that Colin died and he has continued to be a great dad and a source of support. He also LOVES Better Made Chips. He's consumed thousands of bags over the years and he taught me to love them, too. My dad should be your dad of the year!
Rachel Birk Kain
I nominate my dad Joseph Ramseur for the best dad of the year award. He is a father of 5. He works for the city as a bus driver for the city of Detroit and he actually does the Gratiot route and has for the past 20 years. He is very dedicated to his job and his family. My dads wife has been ill for many years and he has made it work by working and providing and also cooking & cleaning when he gets off from work.
He has 3 young children at home ages 12, 9 & 5 with two older 33 & 37 grown and gone from home. He comes home tired most of the time but still manages to raise & take care of his growing family. That is why I think my dad should win 2011 Dad of The Year award.
Jamila Ramseur-Nance
I nomionate my son Justin he works 3rd shift all week and still manages to spend time with his wife and daughters every day plus he lifts lots of weight at work too
Kelly Smith
I nominate my husband Gary Millikan is has alway's been a wonderful father and now a Grandpa (Pop) which Connor call's him now. and we are looking forward to the birth of a grandaughter in July. Gary alway's is there for all of us and we are celebrating our 45 year's of marriage this Saturday. A wonderful person.
Janice Millikan
When I met my husband, I had a great job. We soon married and built our dream home. The following year, we welcomed our first child, a boy. He was born with a rare disease called Tuberous Sclerosis. At the age of 5 months, he started to have seizures and numerous doctor's appointments. I nervously approached my husband about quitting my job to focus on our son. I was nervous because I always told him that I would always work and we had discussed how we could never afford for me to not work. Anyhow, he never hesitated, he said yes, you do need to quit.
4 years later, we have a 4, 3 and 2 year old. My husband works for Ford and thankfully works overtime. He mostly works 6 days a week, 10 hour days. He also does laundry, changes diapers, grocery shops, cuts grass, etc. Recently, he took off from work so I could take a long weekend with girlfriends for a much needed break. He watched all 3 kids by himself and never complained. Our 4 year old is delayed and is still in diapers. He has tumors in his heart, brain and right eye. Most men would not be able to handle this.
I'm told constantly how lucky I am to have such a great husband and I do believe it. He takes care of me and our 3 children and just wouldn't know what I would do without him.
He has a Harley and his buddies constantly get on him about not riding it more. The reason why he doesn't is because if he's not working, he's helping with the house or the kids or just spending time with us.
Thank You, Shannon Arndt Wife of Russ Arndt, father to Bladen, Reese & Jax
I just wanted to take a moment to nominate my daddy for the daddy of the year award. I am sure there are a lot of special daddys but this is why I think mine is special. I was 3.5 months when my mom and daddy adopted me. Daddy pretty much took care of me most of the time because his work schedule allowed him too.
Daddy plays games with me and reads the bible to me. Mommy has been very sick this year, so not only does daddy have to take care of me, work and help mommy with the things she needs help with. Daddy does not ever complain about it. He is happy to help out. I just want to say daddy Thanks and I love you.
Sarah (with a little help from Mom)
I'd like to nominate my husband Philip E.Sayle. Some of the reasons are as follows: He goes to work ,12 hour shifts, 5pm til' 5 am and never seems to get enough sleep but also never complains. We have taken Legal Guardianship of our Granddaughter, who just turned 3. Our daughter was in a codependent relationship with an addict but decided to end it by running away and joining the Army. She is now deployed to Afghanistan. Phil helps out with the little one and taken on the role of 'Daddy' to her,too. She adores him.
We got all this thrown at us while he was going through his treatments for Prostate Cancer. He has also been laid-off 3 times in the past few years but is finally back with his original company, owned by someone else. He has had to adjust to that also. He is a great provider and really takes good care of this family. Those are some of the reasons he should be considered 'Father of The Year'! (Oh, and Better Made chips are his favorite, too!) I used to by the family size bags but I now by the larger ones that are an entire pound of chips:)
Catherine Sayle
P.S. Our youngest child is 18 and Graduating H.S. 6/9!!! Also plans on entering the military.
My name is Barbara, my husband is the best. He raised two of my children from another marriage, Nichole and Christopher. He shared with them and taught them about life. We had a son of our own named Skye, he had children of their own ( 2 ) of them. My son Christopher passed away four years ago leaving two beautiful daughters, Lillian and Zoie.
We are raising them together, he has given them a fatherly-grandpa relationship that is wonderful. We all love him dearly and think he should be recognized for the great job he was and is doing.
Barbara Gilden
My Father is 66 years this month on the 9th! My Dad is special in so many ways. He has 5 boys and two girls. Worked at "General Motors" for 32 years plus. My father had to take an early retirement Because "Buick City" in Flint, Michigan, closed its doors. We gave Dad a Retirement party and invited family and friends, he got so many gifts, nice ones!
I do believe I was my fathers wild child, with three children of my own. I dont know how many times my father bought me bus tickets to come home cause I was having trouble with my boyfriend. Each ticket had to of costed around 179.00 dollars each time. Several times I got arrested and who came to save me once again?,My Father! How many cars did my father get each one of us children?, A couple! How many times did Dad loan us money cause we really needed it, how many times did Dad go without just to help us?, Millions! Not only was he a very special Dad, he was also an awesome son. We lost both of my grandparents due to a car accident, not once did I see my Father break he held it together for all of us, I did not once see him shed a tear, he was always so strong. Im sure when he was alone he did cry. I wished I could of been in his room with him to comfort him. "I love you Dad".
Dad never spanked us, he always left it up to Mom. Dad never yelled at us but always gave us a good lecture. He would always tell us how it would be if we didnt change our ways, we never listened! Now we are all grown adults with children of our own and my father is still there for us all.
Delores McKuen
Hello my name is Amanda Rutkelis and my dad Mark Rutkelis in my eyes is the father of the year. My dad is always there for me. He's always attended all of my Synchronized Skating and Marching Band events to cheer me on! My dad is great because always loves me and supports me in all of my dreams and goals no matter what! My dad and I have attended 15 years of daddy daughter dances. My dad is my hero; I look up to him because he is a strong man and passionate about everything he does!
Even though I am grown up and away at college and I miss him so much. But I want to make him proud of me. I know that my dad still shares a bond with me.
My dad is wonderful I wouldn't trade him for any dad in the world! I love my dad so much! I hope you will consider my Father Mark Rutkelis of Fraser, MI for the father of the year award!
Amanda Rutkelis, Fraser, MI