An extraordinary documentary film bringing to life the gripping true story of the Taken’s family, originally from Grand Rapids, Michigan, has been completed and is set to captivate audiences with its powerful narrative of courage, resilience, and hope during World War II. With Veteran’s Day approaching, the timing of this film’s release is especially poignant, offering viewers a meaningful way to reflect on the sacrifices made by families like the Takens during one of history's pivotal moments.

Narrated firsthand by Marian Takens, the film recounts her family's dramatic journey, which began when they left Grand Rapids in the depths of the Great Depression seeking relief in the

Netherlands, only to become trapped overseas as war broke out. Marian's father, despite significant personal risk and physical challenges, emerged as a key figure in the Dutch Resistance, bravely sheltering Allied pilots and spreading vital wartime information.

The Takens family's profound experiences provide an intimate view into the realities faced by ordinary citizens caught in extraordinary circumstances. Their story highlights universal themes of family bonds, bravery under pressure, and the enduring power of hope and faith.

"This isn't just a historical account," says Marian Takens. "It's a deeply personal reflection that resonates today, reminding us of the importance of compassion and empathy during times of conflict and hardship."

The documentary has particular resonance in Grand Rapids, showcasing the bravery and heroism of one of its own families. As global conflicts continue to affect families around the world, Marian’s story offers meaningful lessons and perspectives relevant to current events, emphasizing our shared human capacity for resilience and kindness.

A Letter to My Grandkids is an autobiographical legacy project chronicling the extraordinary life of Albert Gregory Eaton - a Lansing native, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and the only Michigander to attend every Super Bowl since the first in 1967. Now approaching his 60th consecutive game, Gregory’s life reflects a rare blend of perseverance, faith, and community leadership.

Through heartfelt storytelling, the book captures his journey from humble beginnings, working his first job at age nine and overcoming undiagnosed dyslexia to breaking barriers as Michigan’s first Black lobbyist, founding Gregory’s Soul Food, and building a multimillion-dollar transportation company, Metro Cars. His narrative interweaves personal triumphs, tragedy, and his lifelong commitment to family, education, and mentorship.

Told as a personal letter to his grandchildren, this project honors not only Gregory’s legacy but also the values he hopes to pass forward: hard work, humility, and service to others.

Tina Miller has been crafting Gregory’s story through recorded interviews, archival research, and collaborative storytelling with key figures such as Governor Gretchen Whitmer, former Governor Jim Blanchard, and MSU Coach Tom Izzo. The book serves as both a historical document and an inspirational guide for generations to come - celebrating how one man’s purpose and perseverance helped shape Michigan’s civic and cultural identity.

An Environment for Change is a six-part documentary series and community engagement initiative that explores how shared environments, such as sports, unions, the military, medicine, politics, and music can foster unity, belonging, and cross-cultural understanding. Created by the nonprofit Changing Tomorrow, this PBS-affiliated project weaves together powerful on-camera interviews with community leaders, veterans, coaches, activists, and humanities scholars to examine how physical spaces shape relationships and shift perspectives. Through national broadcasting, a 10-city community film tour, and interactive tools like Courageous Communication Cards and children’s books, the project aims to spark conversations that bridge divides, celebrate shared humanity, and empower communities to create inclusive environments for all.