Archives: Hosts

The Blamers have traveled to Israel 16 times since 2000 and they have a passion for sharing God’s story. They have participated in biblical journeys, studied at Jerusalem University College, and led a number of groups through the land. Jeff and Karen are eager to help others grow in their faith through this life-changing experience. Jeff spent over 40 years in Christian education, including 26 as principal at Kalamazoo Christian Schools. He recently retired from his position as Vice President of Member Services for Christian Schools International. Karen is a semi-retired family nurse practitioner.

Frances Nelson is President of the National Federation of Music Clubs, and also serves as Vice President of the National Music Council and as an honorary music advisor for the Debussy Trio Music Foundation.  She earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Piano from Mississippi College and a Master of Music Education Degree from Jackson State University.  She is presently the Organist/Choirmaster at the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle in Jackson MS.  In addition, she has served as a funeral chapel organist for 25 years, and is currently Chapel Organist at Sebrell Funeral Home in Ridgeland MS.  She regularly works as a pianist and organist for weddings and recitals and collaborates with other musicians.

Luther and Cindy Oberhaus spent their first 40+ years as Ohio ‘Buckeyes’ and now live in Louisville, Kentucky. Retired now, Luther was a marketing executive for a regional meat company and Cindy worked in IT for the past 25+ years. Luther continues to direct a nearby Lutheran Church Choir (his first and forever true vocation), as well as leading a weekly Bible study. They have two grown children and two grandchildren. They have organized and led groups of varying size on tours to Germany, Spain, Italy, France, the Netherlands, and beyond. “We enjoy and encourage fellow travelers to explore and enjoy the culture of each unique country we visit. We are Lutherans but always inclusive other faiths.”

Bruce and Judy enjoy exploring the rich cultural heritage and the stunning architecture and soothing landscapes of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, the country of their ancestors. They’ve hosted several bike-and-barge excursions throughout the country, and have made several other pilgrimages to the Netherlands for business and pleasure over the years. As a journalist for the Chicago Tribune, Bruce covered Pope John Paul II’s “Pausbezoek” to the Low Countries in 1985.

Join Henk and Thressa Witte once more for another memorable journey as they bid farewell to their hosting duties after more than 15 years as cruise hosts. Henk, who emigrated from the Netherlands at age 12, is the founder of Witte Travel & Tours and is also the former Honorary Netherlands Consul for West Michigan. The Wittes have traveled extensively, both with groups and on their own. You can be sure that the Wittes’ fun-loving spirit and cordiality will enhance the tour experience for every one of you.

Gerry Van Kooten, professor of geology emeritus at Calvin University, has led many student interim trips to the Hawaiian Islands

Together, they have led Calvin student groups to the Netherlands for more than 20 years.

Henk is Professor of Geography and Environmental Studies, Emeritus at Calvin. Since retiring from Calvin in 2012, he was appointed Senior Research Fellow at the Van Raalte Institute at Hope College, where he focuses on Dutch American history and culture. He grew up in the Netherlands, is fluent in Dutch and has spent a number of semesters on research and teaching leaves in the country. He is currently working on an Atlas of Dutch American History and Culture.

Bob is a civil engineer and Professor of Engineering at Calvin. He recently worked for one of the Dutch regional water management authorities. He also wrote Designed for Dry Feet: Flood Protection and Land Reclamation in the Netherlands (ASCE Press, 2006).

Come along with Merlyn & Dorothy. Retired educators, the Vander Leests have combined their passion for learning with a “get out there” attitude. They have hosted land, ocean, and river groups to bucket-list destinations around the world since 1995.

Bruce and and his wife Judy have traveled widely for adventure and work. Bruce is a writer and video producer who has been in more than 75 countries around the world, many of them during his tenure as a journalist and correspondent for the Chicago Tribune. Judy is a retired RN and parish nurse who has put her medical skills and compassionate touch to bear on behalf of homeless and disadvantaged families. They live in Grand Haven, Michigan, near the Lake Michigan shoreline.