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Michelle Payton shows off the family resemblance of her son and grandson.
By Nina Crowder
Have you ever thought about your children, grandchildren or great grandchildren and family resemblances? In McPherson, Kansas the local paper put it to the test, one of our locals that has relocated to McPherson, Kansas won second place in a recent father son look-a-like contest.
James Janusz, son of Michelle Payton participated in the look-a-like contest with his young son Alexander. Michelle and her family have been members of the Kearny community since 1943. Michelle enjoyed the news of her son and grandson’s accomplishment.
As James began life his mother was dealing with cancer and undergoing chemotherapy treatment, the doctors were not sure if it was a good idea for the pregnancy to continue, but Michelle would not have it any other way. Michelle said, as James grew up, he was a good child but did go through thick and thin in his young life. James felt he was headed down a rough road and wrote to Project Challenge asking for a chance with them before he ended up in deep trouble. Based on his sincere, pleading, letter and circumstances Project Challenge accepted him. James went into the military in 1999 and was based near the Pentagon during Sept. 11, 1999 he was one of the many who served cleaning up at the Pentagon. James also served three tours in Iraq. During his eight year stint in the military he had suffered family loss and a few other life changing events, some that made him feel devastated.
Due to James’ circumstances he made the decision to move to Kansas with his vehicle and a few personal items. In his short time there he has made significant positive changes in his life. It takes faith, to go forward not knowing what the future holds. James seems to have taken that leap. James currently works for Midway Motors in McPherson, Kansas, has a partner Ivonne Cabrera, a step daughter Aria Analyse who is six years old and his look-a-like son Alexander who is 18 months old. He has taken pride in his new life in Kansas, has a beautiful home and puts his family first.
We all make difficult decisions in our life and we are never certain of the way our life will turn out it certainly sounds like James has survived some difficult times and is enjoying the good life. Michelle is so excited and happy for her son and his life in Kansas. Congratulations to James and his family!
If you are interested in seeing and/or reading the look-a-like article for yourself please feel free to check out the website at www.mcphersonsentinel.com.
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