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Bloomington man wins $250,000 in essay contest
By Scott Miller
scottmiller@pantagraph.com
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BLOOMINGTON -- A rainy day turned bright Friday for Bloomington resident Vicente Adame, the surprised recipient of a $250,000 check from Wells Fargo Home Mortgage.

Adame won the prize for an essay he wrote about his journey from his dirt-floor childhood home in Mexico to his current Victorian home on East Grove Street in Bloomington.

“Vicente’s story clearly epitomizes the American dream come true. It’s exactly why we launched the Great American Homeowner Challenge,” said Wells Fargo Division President Cara Heiden, after telling a shell-shocked and speechless Adame and his wife, Jen, they had won the national essay contest on homeownership.

“When families own their home, they are stronger. They feel rooted. They feel safer,” she said.

More than 21,000 people nationally entered the contest, which was created with best-selling author David Bach to inspire Americans to buy their first home.

“Vicente and Jen, you are now a story I will tell in a future book,” said Bach, author of The Automatic Millionaire Homeowner and a frequent guest on “The Oprah Winfrey Show.” “Your story will inspire millions of Americans who are considering buying their first home.”

Adame grew up in rural Mexico in a one-bedroom, dirt-floor house without plumbing or electricity. He moved to the United States as a teenager, worked for a cleaning company after high school and bought his first home when he was 22.

It was a small house that needed a lot of work, Adame said, but nonetheless, it was a life-changing event.

As equity grew, Adame bought his mother a home, then his brother a year later.

Then, he purchased investment property and eventually became a real estate agent for Coldwell Banker Heart of America in Bloomington.

“If I did it, you can do it too,” Adame said. “It’s not as hard as people think.”

Adame’s journey to financial security via homeownership made him the obvious choice for Wells Fargo and Bach.

“I was really touched that you gave back to your family right away,” Bach told Adame.

Plus, Adame was smart, Bach said. He bought what he could afford and let his equity grow so he could eventually buy the four-bedroom home where his wife and two children, Yesenia, 11, and Victor, 3, now live.

Wells Fargo gave the children a gift bag with an iPod and other prizes and will buy the Adames a house valued up to $250,000.

What will they do?

Yesenia wants her parents to buy the house down the street that has an elevator.

Her mother doesn’t think so, and that house isn’t for sale, she noted.

“This is the home I brought my son home from the hospital to, so I’m not sure I want to give it up,” Jen Adame said. “The home is everything we ever wanted.”

Instead of selling and upsizing, the Adames likely will purchase more investment property and work toward their next dream, she said.

The family wants to be debt-free and purchase the Mexican mountainside where Adame grew up. They want to build a vacation home right next Adame’s childhood home.

“But not tear it down,” Jen Adame noted. “It will bring him full circle.”



Adame's winning essay



Editor's note: This was the essay submitted by Vincente Adame that was chosen as the winner of the Great American Homeowner Challenge.

When I was a child, I was a dreamer and was fully determined to make something of my life, but I could not have imagined the dream my life would become – a dream that began when I made the decision to buy my first home.

You see, I was born 34 years ago in a one-room, dirt floor house in a rural village of Mexico. Without plumbing or electricity, we bathed, cleaned clothes and washed dishes in a small creek nearby.

At 16, I was brought to live with family in the United States, where I attended school and learned English. Although I worked very hard and excelled in my job, I had very little to show for my money.

I took a life-turning step that set my dreams in motion when I bought a simple bungalow. At the time, it didn't seem like a major decision; I simply didn't want to pay rent any longer. However, the freedom I felt was something I wanted to share with the world. As equity built up, I used it to buy a home for my mother, and another for my brother the year after that. This was amazing! I then purchased a commercial property. With the rents received, I've invested in four additional properties.

Five years after purchasing my first small home, I moved to a beautiful, 4-bedroom Victorian on a street straight out of a story book.

Last year, I became a Realtor, the only Spanish-speaking Realtor in our area, because I enjoy nothing more than to help others find the life-changing freedom in owning their own home.

I try to imagine going back in time to tell the 7-year-old at work in the fields that some day he would own a big beautiful dream home, and that his children would go to school and play without ever worrying about their family's finances. That determined little boy would have laughed at the fairytale I was telling him. Then, he would have gone back to work to make that dream come true.

Take a look
Vicente and Jen Adame, right, are presented the $250,000 prize by Cara Heiden, division president of Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, left, and author David Bach, center left, for the Wells Fargo Take The Challenge Essay Contest, Friday (March 30, 2007) in Bloomington. (Pantagraph/CARLOS T. MIRANDA)
Adame, center left, has his video taken with coworker Jimmy Mapugay, as Bev Virgil and Meenu Bhaskar, right, watch after he was presented the $250,000 prize. (Pantagraph/CARLOS T. MIRANDA)
Adame, left, calls for his wife Jen Adame as his mother Juventina Robles wipes tears from her face after he was presented the prize. (Pantagraph/CARLOS T. MIRANDA)
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Reader comments on this story - 57 total

Note: All views and opinions expressed in reader comments are solely those of the individual submitting the comment, and not those of the Pantagraph or its staff.

J.S. wrote on May 23, 2007 12:23 PM:

" I thought this contest was to asssist those in need to buy their own home. The winner already has a home and is a realtor with access to more homes! I am disappointed...no I'm shocked. I feel that I entered the contest and wrote my essay under false information and pretenses from Wells Fargo. I do not think the winner deserved to be picked as he and his family already own property. "

Congrats!!!!!!!!!!! wrote on Apr 6, 2007 9:17 PM:

" I had the great pleasure of getting to know Vincente through work and I have found that he is one of the hardest working men that I have ever meet. He provides for his family and many other families. He has overcome so much to get where he is at today. He donates so much also to habitat, so any one who knows him knows that he is the best person for this prize "

Stone wrote on Apr 5, 2007 12:36 AM:

" Congraulations Vincente! I am the one that bought "Your two bedroom bungalow" and it was a pleasure doing buisness with you! The best of luck to you and your family! "

Great Family wrote on Apr 3, 2007 10:02 AM:

" I am so proud to have had the honor of working with Vicente. A great, caring, hard worker, with a smile on his face, this is a wonderful family and could not have happend to a nicer man. AND to Hmmmm and My Thoughts: todays word is Vicente is trying to figure out how to split his winnings and build a Habitat for Humanity home. FYI. If more people like him were in charge of things this world really would be a different place. CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!!! "

check it out wrote on Apr 3, 2007 8:59 AM:

" for those of you who are doubting Vicente's need for the grand prize, you should check out the topic choices of the contest. He hit the nail on the head in terms of what the contest was looking for. Shame on those of you who are doubting why he should be a winner. I mean Really! If you need proof, I found these on: https://www.wellsfargo.com/press/20070330_EssayWinner?year=2007 - Why I Want to Be a Homeowner - The Challenges I Overcame to Become a Homeowner - How Homeownership Has Built My Personal/Family Wealth and Security "

A fellow contest entrant wrote on Apr 3, 2007 12:12 AM:

" Interesting to see the winner to be someone who is a very giving person. The first thing you did when you made money on your first house was give! Hopefully you are giving to God because God is blessing you! You have inspired me to be more giving! Congratulations! "

David Bach Fan wrote on Apr 2, 2007 8:41 PM:

" On the contrary, David does not advocate "get rich quick." In fact, he's all about being smart and making good decisions for your future. Pick up one of his books. You'll be pleasantly surprised! I suggest "Smart Couples Finish Rich." "

expired wrote on Apr 2, 2007 7:05 PM:

" Let's not go advocating David Bach so quickly. Isn't he just another Anthony Robbins get-rich-quick schemer? I mean he ain't no John Steinbeck (The Grapes of Wrath)...that's for sure. "

Inspired wrote on Apr 2, 2007 1:51 PM:

" This contest wasn't about a hand out or getting "help." It was about being an inspiration. I'm thinking that living paycheck to paycheck and getting a free house wouldn't inspire people. It would just make people think that you were lucky. We should take it for what it is- a story of inspriation. We should become inspired and go by David Bach's book so that we, too, can succeed. "

Living paycheck to paycheck wrote on Apr 2, 2007 1:08 PM:

" Wait, doesn't this guy own 5 properties already? I'm happy for him, but he didn't really need the help. "

Jackie, Andrew & Xander wrote on Apr 2, 2007 10:12 AM:

" CONGRATULATIONS VICENTE!!!!! What can I say...."A fan" has so taken the words right out of my mouth!!!!! We love you guys!!! "

hmmm wrote on Apr 1, 2007 8:14 PM:

" I congratulate the Adames, but I do agree with the poster that commented that this really should have been awarded to someone purchasing their first home. "

A fan wrote on Apr 1, 2007 6:08 PM:

" I believe Vicente too humble to respond to Mr. Cash's post. I know first hand all of elements of this essay to be true. The mere fact that you think this must be a "Hollywood fable" attests to the adversity that he has had to overcome. I was once told to know this man is to love him. I have found this to be absolutely true. Congratulations Vicente! Anyone who knows you knows how special you are. "

joe and tash, moline wrote on Apr 1, 2007 2:53 PM:

" congrats vicente, i cant think of any one more deserving, you are an inspiration in so many ways very proud of you, love you guys "

Eli Hadley Cash wrote on Apr 1, 2007 10:19 AM:

" Mr. Adame's essay is a trite, campy Hollywood fable and should be disqualified. Award the money to someone who really needs it. Just watch Morgan Freeman's parole speech in Shawshank Redemption, and you will find where Mr. Adame paraphrased his closing paragraph. What a farce this contest is! "

Vicente wrote on Apr 1, 2007 10:02 AM:

" Once again, I just wanted to thank everyone for their support. I was overwhelmed by the number of family, friends and others who emailed, phoned or came to see me in person to convey their support. Please know that those thoughtful words from all of you were even more precious to me than winning this contest. Being responsible with our money has always included paying back to our family, friends and community. Rest assured, my wife and I will continue to "pay it forward" with this great opportunity we have been given. "

Shirley Heitzler wrote on Mar 31, 2007 9:56 PM:

" Congratulations Vicente! Robin is my cousin, and I hope to meet you some day. You are an inspiration to many that are dedicated to improving their lives. Good luck in your future endevors. "

me wrote on Mar 31, 2007 9:04 PM:

" Viva U.S.A. "

sounds like a Mayoral Candidate! wrote on Mar 31, 2007 6:39 PM:

" We could use somebody this smart in public office! "

hey wrote on Mar 31, 2007 4:45 PM:

" wasnt he the Corporate Cleaner's manager that cleans State Farm? "

to: My thoughts wrote on Mar 31, 2007 4:13 PM:

" Did you read the story, it is about making the American dream happen. Vicente exemplifies the true meaning of working hard and achieving the American dream. You prolly don't even know him! Keep your negative thoughts off such a positive story! Congratulations Vicente!!!! "

re my thoughts wrote on Mar 31, 2007 3:53 PM:

" You miss the whole point. The contest was to find someone to inspire others to home ownership. It is not a give a way but rather a reward for hard work and dedication. I don't know if Wells Fargo/David Bach know what a great choice they have made in Vicente and his family. These are the most generous and loving people you could ever know! "

to My thoughts wrote on Mar 31, 2007 3:35 PM:

" I too agree with you, not that this family is not deserving but like you say they are buying rental property and such and someone out there would just like to have their own home and has worked hard for it. As I say not to dis this family, and I hope that they will see this and help someone out....Thanks "

My thoughts wrote on Mar 31, 2007 1:47 PM:

" I'm kind of tired of the reviewers for the online comments that don't allow for much for criticism of articles. I submitted a view point earlier this morning, but it was never posted and there was nothing even remotely close that would be considered not post worthy. My view point was that I personally think this award could have gone to an individual who was more needing. I make this statement as nothing personal to Vicente, but it seems he has had the ball rolling for quite some time with all of his business ventures. My thoughts are that maybe a low middle class or middle class individual would have been more appropriate. I'm not trying to take anything from Vicente, i just think Wells Fargo could have made a better selection. "

Congrats Vicente wrote on Mar 31, 2007 12:31 PM:

" Before this ever happened I have sat in many sales meetings where thank you notes to Vicente have been read. It is obvious this man has a great heart for other people and is very much in touch with others needs. Although I only have a wave in the hallway relationship, even before this I found him inspiring through his work ethic and others respect of him! A great example of ... What goes around comes around! Congrats to Vincente! "

The Arbors/ The Pines wrote on Mar 31, 2007 12:04 PM:

" Hey Vincente, All the staff at The Arbors and The Pines are honored to have you out there working on our behalf, congratulations again, your hard work is not going unnoticed!! "

Chelly wrote on Mar 31, 2007 10:01 AM:

" Congrats to Vincente and his family! I have seen his signs all over town with Coldwell Banker and I can only imagine how hard he works for his clients. $250,000 could go a long way towards paying off a mortgage. "

IlliniBloomer wrote on Mar 31, 2007 8:17 AM:

" Congratulations! This is a well deserved honor. I would like to add that Vicente started a sign campaign in his neighborhood to discourage speeding. Many homes in the neighborhood display these signs. Vicente is an exemplary citizen. "

hi wrote on Mar 31, 2007 8:08 AM:

" wow "

huh wrote on Mar 31, 2007 6:01 AM:

" ....even more encouraging in times of anti (illiegal) immigration, is the fact that this immigrant succeeded in doing what most of us cannot do because everything came easy to us that we never felt the need to work. Good job! "

AM wrote on Mar 31, 2007 4:58 AM:

" This is exactly the positive coverage Hispanics need. We do make a significant economical and cultural contribution to society. Congratulations Vincente. You are a true aspiration and great role model for Hispanics all around the world. Gracias. "

To: I have to agree with wrote on Mar 31, 2007 2:31 AM:

" At least the money is going into someone's hands who obviously will be responsible with it and probably do much good for others. I don't know Vincente, but it he certainly sounds like a great recipient of the award! Congrats! "

Barb. M wrote on Mar 30, 2007 11:20 PM:

" Mr. Adame, since I noted your above comment, I assume you will see this. Just want to add congratulations from Rock Island County, Illinois. The family e-mail was forwarded to me from Shirley H, . I am sure you will do more giving things with this prize. Hope to be hearing more about what happens from here on. Barb "

to We Love This/ happy in DT wrote on Mar 30, 2007 10:32 PM:

" I just wanted to say congratulations to Vicente Adame, he is the nicest man! My mom and dad have already said, "Congrats to Vicente. This could not have happened to a nicer man. We had the pleasure of meeting Vicente when he helped out daughter purchase her dream condo, her very first home in downtown Bloomington. He went out of his way to help her in every way he could, and then some... He exemplifies the true meaning of working hard and achieving the American dream. So to Vincente I say, "What goes around comes around!" He is a shining example of a human being!!! It just proves that when you put Karma out in the world it comes back to you 1,000 times over! I hope the family enjoys their new vacation home in the mountains of Mexico!!!! You go Vicente! :>) :> ) :> ) "

bill sopper wrote on Mar 30, 2007 9:35 PM:

" you make all Realtors PROUD !!! Congratulations to you & your lovely family. "

reader wrote on Mar 30, 2007 7:21 PM:

" I wish he would of mentioned his dream of and the struggles he had to indure in becoming a United States citizen,and how proud he is to be a U.S. citizen "

Nancy wrote on Mar 30, 2007 7:20 PM:

" Congratulations my friend!! I am so proud of ALL you and Jen have accomplished!! Fantastic achievement!!! Felicitaciones!! "

We Love This wrote on Mar 30, 2007 7:04 PM:

" Congrats to Vincente. This could not have happened to a nicer man. We had the pleasure of meeting Vincente when he helped out daughter purchase her dream condo, her very first home in downtown Bloomington. He went out of his way to help her in every way he could, and then some... He exemplifies the true meaning of working hard and achieving the american dream. So to Vincente I say, "What goes around comes around!" "

Just me wrote on Mar 30, 2007 6:41 PM:

" Glad to hear a story of someone who came to America in search of a better life and has bettered themselves and helped others along the way. congratulations to you and your family.... "

Awesome wrote on Mar 30, 2007 5:28 PM:

" Good job, you should be proud "

Very nice wrote on Mar 30, 2007 5:24 PM:

" This is such a neat story. This is a wonderful family and they are very giving. Congrats and You deserve it more than anyone!!!! "

Congrats!! wrote on Mar 30, 2007 4:53 PM:

" This money is well deserved. Vicente and his family are the true american family, and would do anything for anyone, they are very genuine and would do anything for anyone. A true example of how to do for others. Truly deserved and congrats!! "

I have to agree with wrote on Mar 30, 2007 4:27 PM:

" this is neat. I hate to rain on the winner's parade, but maybe someone who was actually thinking of buying their first home or possibly upgrading would have been a better pick. He just got the money to increase his investment potential. "

this is neat.... wrote on Mar 30, 2007 4:02 PM:

" but it sounds like they don't need the money.... "

To Vicente wrote on Mar 30, 2007 3:36 PM:

" Felicidades!!! "

****** wrote on Mar 30, 2007 3:10 PM:

" To Vicente!!! Couldn't happen to a nicer person!!!!! "

vicente wrote on Mar 30, 2007 3:02 PM:

" Thank you all for your support! I am still in the dream mode! "

Congrats! wrote on Mar 30, 2007 2:49 PM:

" I think that is great! And we get to read about it in the news is even better. "

Bob wrote on Mar 30, 2007 2:39 PM:

" I wish all the Mexicans the best they should be encouraged to come here. This is a melting pot and immigrants are what makes this country so great! "

Drinks wrote on Mar 30, 2007 2:33 PM:

" On Vicente!!!! "

Made my day wrote on Mar 30, 2007 2:22 PM:

" That's very cool. A source of pride for our community! The drinks are on Vicente tonight! "

marriedtoaMEXICAN and proud of it! wrote on Mar 30, 2007 2:18 PM:

" Congratulations Vicente!!!! Nice work...... I don't know you but just reading your story makes me proud! I love to hear these kinds of storys. I'm sure if your parents are still living in Mexico they are very happy to hear of your accomplishments. I hope they can receive a green card and come to bloomington/normal to also have a wonderful life in america! Congrats :~) "

very nice wrote on Mar 30, 2007 1:56 PM:

" Congratulations! "

Well done wrote on Mar 30, 2007 1:55 PM:

" Conrats to him! (He's a realtor as well.) "

WOW wrote on Mar 30, 2007 1:36 PM:

" CONGRATS "

congrats wrote on Mar 30, 2007 1:19 PM:

" Awesome! Congratulations Vicente! Looking forward to hearing more about your story! "

AMAZING wrote on Mar 30, 2007 1:18 PM:

" Great to hear a story like this. I look forward to reading more about them and their journey. "
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