“On the go,” “upbeat,” “energetic,” “committed and caring” with a sense of humor– all of these phrases aptly describe Annette K. Levine
Annette is one of those people whose verve and joy literally “light up a room” when she walks into it. And fortunately for our community, she’s channeled that joy and enthusiasm into numerous social, educational, political and community activities over the years. From bringing the first Montessori school to the Twin Cities, to spearheading the drive to create camps for handicapped children, to being the first woman on the state Barber’s Board. Annette has been an idea person and an innovator. And those talents were also invaluable when she and her late husband build and operated Fridley Convalescent for ten years. As Activities Director, Annette was constantly seeking out and offering new activities for the residents.
Annette’s zest for learning and natural curiosity has led her to explore many cultures and lands, but she found Pompeii the most exciting. “Those people were amazing – they even had bumps built into the roads to slow down their carriages!” But with all her travelling, Annette has found that “people are people are people.” “If I smile, they smile –so much of life is attitude.”
It’s Annette’s love of learning that draws her regularly to Channel 2. She’s an avid viewer of biographies and travel programs – and has recently included Channel 2 in her will. When asked what made her decide to leave a bequest to Channel 2, she replied: “I was watching an absolutely delightful program and thought these people have to be funded so they can carry on these programs.” Annette also recalls that when her father was dying of cancer fifty years ago, television was relatively new. But she’ll never forget the words of her father after he watched a concert on the television they’d brought to his hospital room: “You have no idea how helpful this is to me.”
When asked what activities and accomplishments have brought her the greatest satisfaction, she states without hesitation: “that I was able to help.” And without a doubt, she’s certainly done that – in spades!
Source:
The insider, issue #1, February 1999
