The Activist

Issue date: 6/2/08 Section: Features

Media Credit: Amber Wooten Slammin' John Kraimer is shown performing on his rack of keyboards at the 2008 Worldfest at RWC in April.

Who would have known that so much talent is hidden within RWC walls? Mr. John Kraimer, Director of RWC Disability Services, has a plethora of talents that most of us have no idea about.

John Kraimer does not only produce and perform his own musical numbers, but he also writes his own poems; not to mention, he has also written a book entitled "My Left Thumb," which is a collection of all of his poems and works. Not only has John written hundreds of poems, but he is also is in the process of writing a documentary.

In "My Left Thumb," John writes about different experiences in his life, including topics varying from politics, religion, and war, to his disability.

John has achieved many accomplishments in his life; however, his life has not always been an easy ride. John has always been active in different sports and activities throughout his life; but in 1990, John suffered a tragic accident while completing speed runs on his bicycle in Sharon Woods. John broke his neck and spent four and a half months recovering from his accident.

Although John faced many trials and tribulations, he never let it bring him down; he persisted to create music by playing his keyboard even after the accident.

John's music isn't just your average everyday sounds; however, the sounds that he creates are phenomenal. John not only uses his keyboard, but he also uses various sounds and synthesizers to further accent his music.

Not only is his music amazing, but his poems are also. John was inspired by an English professor, Maria Damen, to begin writing his works. John reiterated that his poems are works reflected within himself, and regardless of one's situation, "It's never too late to start writing."

John is currently active reading and performing his works at different functions such as World Fest, The Poetry Cafe and other community events.

John Kraimer is an individual, who has been faced with a life altering tragedy, but regardless of his situation, he still proceeds to push at achieving his goals; he is a man of integrity, persistence, and numerous accomplishments.

If you are ever given the chance to see John Kraimer perform, I would strongly suggest it; his poems and music are highly entertaining and enjoyable to the ear.

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