THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Sunday, May 26, 1996 TAG: 9605240180
SECTION: CHESAPEAKE CLIPPER PAGE: 04 EDITION: FINAL
LENGTH: 75 lines
Mary Vanderploeg has been chosen to represent Virginia in a competition for the title of ``World's Greatest Grandma.''
``I almost hung up the first time they called me about the contest,'' said Vanderploeg, after being picked as one of 16 finalists in the contest sponsored by the Washington Apple Commission and Farm Fresh Supermarkets.
``She is a real enthusiastic woman,'' said Rita Brautigam, public relations consultant for the apple commission. ``We had a great time meeting her because she was up for anything and was real excited to be in Washington state for the event. It's a great way to say thank you to our best customers.''
Vanderploeg's involvement in the community played a large role in her selection for the contest. She is a volunteer at Sentara Nursing Home and was chosen ``volunteer of the year'' there. She has taught religion classes to mentally retarded children at her church and volunteered with Girl Scouts and Brownies.
Her husband, John, accompanied Vanderploeg on the all-expense-paid trip to Wenatchee, Wash.
Contestants participated in the Apple Blossom Festival parade, got autographs from festival host Jerry Mathers of ``Leave It To Beaver,'' visited apple orchards and toured the Apple Commission.
``I had a fabulous time,'' she said. ``We were treated like queens.
``I made friendships that I'm sure will last a lifetime,'' she said. ``I've heard from almost every one of them. It's been wonderful. Truly an experience of a lifetime.''
The residents at Sentara Nursing Center have come to value Vanderploeg's friendship.
``She's a very caring person,'' said Donna Millis, the center's activities director. ``If she can't make it, she calls and apologizes. She's very enthusiastic and always has a smile on her face.''
Vanderploeg works especially well with dementia residents.
``Not every volunteer has the patience to work with this type of resident,'' Millis said. ``They take a lot of stimulation. You don't always get a lot of return thanks from the customers.''
Full name: Mary C. Vanderploeg
Hometown: ``I was born in Washington, D.C., and have lived in 16 different states. My father was an FBI agent.''
Fond childhood memories: ``We used to go on picnics. We traveled a lot and saw a lot of historical sights, which was very educational. Not to mention all the friends you make everywhere you live.''
Spouse: John W.
Children: Terry Perkins, Susan De Laura, Lauraleigh Yockey, Ellen Brinker, John Vanderploeg, Eileen Arnold, James Vanderploeg and 10 grandchildren.
Hobbies: ``My grandchildren. I love to work jigsaw puzzles and have one going almost every day. I love playing video games with the grandchildren. We play Monopoly, Parcheesi and all the other games. You have to keep them busy. We don't sit and watch TV. I'm really getting good at homework again.''
Last book read: ``I'm reading `Forbidden Obsession' by Maryanne Gleason.''
What's your favorite game? ``Probably Monopoly. I play cards on Wednesday with a group of ladies from the Elks' Lodge.''
Describe yourself as a color: ``Probably yellow, because I like bright sunny things.''
If you could be any tree, what would it be? ``I'd be a weeping willow that sweeps down and touches the ground. They are just so graceful and flowing.''
What irritates you the most? ``Undisciplined children. I think they irritate everybody.''
Favorite type of music: ``I love all music. My body just seems to move when I hear the music. I can't sit still.''
Favorite movie: ``Mr. Holland's Opus''
Can't resist: My husband
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? ``I'd be thinner, and I'm working on it.''
Favorite TV program: ``Home Improvement''
Favorite Chesapeake restaurant: ``I have a lot of favorite Chesapeake restaurants.''
Favorite way to spend a day: ``With my family.''
What would you choose for a last meal? ``Seafood - probably crab.'' ILLUSTRATION: Photo by GARY C. KNAPP
Mary Vanderploeg by CNB