Written by Tanya Terry
Flint Resident Shayne Hodges recently became one of five recipients of a free Dell laptop given by the Flint Courier News, made possible through Comcast. Comcast and the Courier gave the laptops away as part of a contest in which contest entrants told the Courier why they needed the laptops. The winners were notified around Cyber Monday and interviewed before the Christmas holiday.
Hodges told the Courier he needed one of the laptops because he wanted to keep up with his kids’ schooling.
“I’ve been trying to save up and get one, but it just never happened,” Hodges explained. “So, having this is an opportunity that allows me to go deeper with my kids’ homework.”
Hodges said he is now able to see his children’s grades himself, versus “taking their word for it.” He is also able to interact better with the teachers now.
“It’s much easier on a laptop than on a phone,” Hodges added.
Hodges’ children attend Grand Blanc Bobcat Virtual Learning.
He has wanted a laptop for this reason for at least a couple of years.
The other thing Hodges said he would like to do with his new laptop is to study for his current job as a wastewater operator for the City of Flint.
“I have to continue to study and get state-certified and state certifications, and a lot of these meetings are all over the state. Now with a solid computer to do Zoom meetings with, I can catch more of them and continue to grow as a wastewater operator.”
For Hodges, having a new laptop is about he and his family’s growth together. His children’s names are Shayne Hodges, Evelyn Hodge, and Katniss Hodges. They are ages 8-13.
“I’m trying to show my kids there’s many different ways that you not only have to educate yourself, but you should want to to go further. I just felt more deep because I’ve never won anything before. So, I’m so grateful to the Courier and Comcast. I feel really lucky. It’s been a great holiday so far.”
