Hillcrest Connection Spring 2010

Hillcrest Spring 2010 • Volume 71 • Number 2

A MAGAZINE FOR FRIENDS AND ALUMNI OF HILLCREST ACADEMY

Inside this Issue:

Christmas Highlights Hillcrest Blackouts in WWII Campus News Reunion Preparations

CONNECTION

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GREETING Dear Alumni and Friends,

I recently read that America is the most charitable country on earth.

There is no other country that comes close. One of the reasons for this is that we respect the freedom and abilities of individuals to make a difference. I agree wholeheartedly.

To bring this closer to our mission, the freedom you have to support the ideals of Christian education is your privilege as an American.

enhance the academic environment are in place.

An exciting capital campaign for HLA will soon be announced.

Hillcrest Lutheran Academy exists today because alumni and friends have exercised their freedom to support an institution they believe is making a difference in our culture and world. This has kept the doors open for nearly 100 years!

God bless you!

Hillcrest is fortunate to have a consistent charitable constituency across the nation. We view this as a blessing that comes from the very heart of God. Thank you for your generosity in using your freedom to choose. Every gift received in support of Hillcrest Lutheran Academy is making a difference!

mis- sion minded . I will make a mar k. a life of significanc e. I will be mission I will make a mark.

I will live a life of sigce. I will be mission minded. I will learn to be e like Jesus. I will make a mark. I will live a life significance. I will b e mission minded. I will learn o be more like Jesu s. I will make a ma rk. I will live a life of significanc e. I will be mission minded. I wil learn to be more lik eLIVE. JesuLEARN. s .

I w i l l make a mark. I GO. will live a life of s ignificance. I will be mission m ed. I will lear Steven J. Brue, HLA President

The vision to move forward as a Biblical-based, Christcentered high school equipping students for a life of significance remains strong today. Plans to improve facilities, reduce debt, strengthen endowments, and

p.s.- HLA Giving Clubs are growing each month! Our goal is to reach 200 members by Graduation 2010. Reunion class members are urged to join!

Any school can prepare students for a life of excellence...

We’re more concerned about a life of significance.

WWW.FFHILLCREST.ORG

Hillcrest CONNECTION

CONTENTS 4 Feature

Christmas Concert & Christmas Banquet

7 Focus 6

WWII Blackouts at Hillcrest

FOCUS

8 Finance

Charitable Connection Financial Update

BLACKOUTS AT Hillcrest

10 Campus News 2010 Band Tour Two Excelling Seniors

by Steve Hoffbeck

In the dark days of WWII following japan’s attack on pearl harbor, Hillcrest and the rest of the fergus falls community Prayed for the best, but prepared for the worst.

14 Alumni News

Alumnus of the Year Nominations 2010 Reunions Alumni Updates

Spring 2010 The Hillcrest Connection is published quarterly by Hillcrest Academy.

Hillcrest Lutheran Academy 610 Hillcrest Drive Fergus Falls, MN 56537-2699 STEVE BRUE | President Editor-in-Chief sbrue@ffhillcrest.org CONNIE JENSEN Managing Editor cjensen@ffhillcrest.org RYAN ERICKSON Graphic Design rerickson@ffhillcrest.org STEVE HOFFBECK Contributing Writer KEVEN CRABTREE Contributing Writer

HILLCREST ACADEMY BOARD OF DIRECTORS DWIGHT SCHMIDT | Chair Jamestown, ND DAVE EGGE | Vice Chair Alexandria, MN ROD SCHEEL | Secretary Fergus Falls, MN RICH IVERSON Barnesville, MN ANNIE JACOBSEN Succasunna, NJ KATHY JOHNSON Fergus Falls, MN

J. BURDEAN ROGNESS Eden Prairie, MN

MISSION STATEMENT

LISA SCHULTZ-FRED Fergus Falls, MN

The mission of Hillcrest Lutheran Academy is to equip students in a Christ-centered, Bible-based environment for a life of significance.

OLAV SANDNES Mt. Bethel, PA

HILLCREST ACADEMY PARENT ADVISORY TEAM LISA SCHULTZ-FRED | HLA Board Rep CARLA BJORNLIE LORI HESTENES ANDY LACEY LESLIE JENNEN

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FEATURE

Christmas Concert 2009

A tradition that began many years ago continued in 2009 with the Annual Hillcrest Lutheran Academy Christmas Concert.

The rich history of the Christmas concert began with C.F. Erickson in the 1930s. Erickson, who attended St. Olaf College in St. Paul, brought with him the idea of an annual Christmas concert when he came to teach at Hillcrest.

More than 50 years later, the Annual Christmas Concert has evolved into an event turned tradition for families. Each year, Hillcrest’s current music director, David Strom, creates the concert around a theme. “Stay With Us” served as the theme of the concert in 2009. The theme came from Norwegian composer, Egil Hovland’s piece entitled “Stay With Us”, which is rooted in the story of Jesus’ experience on the road to Emmaus. Luke 24:29 reads, “…Stay with us, for it is nearly evening; the day is almost over…” These ancient words are beautiful lyrics for Hovland’s piece, and the foundation for the spirit of the 2009 Christmas Concert.

This year, more than 800 people gathered to enjoy a night of music. A concert that once took place in Hillcrest’s old gym now fills the sanctuary of Bethel Lutheran Church for two nights. The concert attracts people beyond the Hillcrest neighborhood, and has stretched into the larger community of Fergus Falls

and other nearby cities. Each year, the concert proves as an evening for the people of these communities to come together and celebrate the beauty of music and Christmas.

There are many things throughout the night that ‘regular attendees’ have grown to anticipate. The opening piece begins with a candlelit choir in front, and closes with the choir surrounding the audience, and is a highlight for many.

Many also enjoy the opportunity to sing along with classic Christmas carols.

Community members aren’t the only ones invested in the tradition of the Hillcrest Christmas Concert. Students involved in the concert spend hours learning the music, and spend countless practices, investing in a night that is as special to put on, as it is to attend. David Strom works hard at teaching the students not only about music, but also about worship, and the power that comes when music and worship unite.

As is the case with many traditions, it is a blessing to see where it has come from, and now with great excitement, we can only look forward to continuing what has proven as such a significant part of the Christmas season for so many.

FEATURE

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Christmas Banquet 2009

Glitz and glamour were in full swing as Hillcrest students and staff celebrated the Christmas season with the annual Christmas Banquet. Student council transformed Hillcrest’s old gym into an enchanted winter wonderland with candlelit tables, and twinkling lights surrounding the room.

This year’s theme was entitled “Wrapped Up in Love”. Pastor Dave Veum brought words of inspiration and truth as he shared his perspective on what it means for us as followers of Christ to embody and show God’s love.

As per tradition, both the Norwegian students and the Korean students spent hours prior to the banquet preparing for a special performance. The Korean students performed a piece called “Happy Together” and the Norwegians sang “Deilig Er Jorden”. A duet by seniors Grace Jacoby and Justin Olsoe was a highlight as they beautifully sang the Christmas classic, “O Holy Night.”

Students have always loved the excitement that comes with Christmas Banquet-- from the preparation that leads up to it, to the activities that follow. Christmas Banquet will always

be a favorite memory for HLA students. Norwegian student, Anna Kleppe says, “I love being with my friends and seeing everyone get dressed up for the evening. It’s just fun to all be together for the special night.”

A delicious meal was served with the help of the wonderful junior high students who serve by helping to set and clear plates. Nostalgia rang as many of the high school students reminisced about their days as junior high helpers and couldn’t believe it was finally their turn to be the ones sitting in the fancy attire as participants of the evening. A favorite dessert this year was the chocolate fondue fountain buffet with fresh fruit, potato chips, pretzels, marshmallows and more.

For the students, the evening didn’t end with the program.

Buses loaded and headed to the Fergus Falls Ice Arena for late night games of broomball and skating. The night was beautifully captured in pictures, in video, and most importantly in the memories these students will carry with them for a lifetime.

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FOCUS

BLACKOUTS AT Hillcrest

by Steve Hoffbeck

In the dark days of WWII following japan’s attack on pearl harbor, Hillcrest and the rest of the fergus falls community Prayed for the best, but prepared for the worst.

FOCUS

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The Japanese attack at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii on December 7, 1941, plunged the U.S. into World War II. Almost overnight, the entire nation mobilized for the global conflict. In Fergus Falls, the Lutheran Brethren Schools----the high school, the Bible School, and the Seminary---were deeply affected by the war.

To protect Fergus Falls, Leo H. Dominick, Commander of Civilian Defense, worked with Judge Barnes to choose and supervise over fifty local air raid wardens to watch the skies for enemy aircraft. The Fergus Falls Journal newspaper printed drawings of eleven Japanese warplanes, showing their silhouettes, as a public service. Air wardens held Charles Sheppard, a senior at the high school, wrote in his designated rooftop positions where they kept binoculars at diary on December 9, two days after Pearl Harbor: “Once the ready to aid them in spotting enemy aircraft in the skies again our country is at battle, for today Congress declared over Fergus Falls. The same air raid wardens were called war on Japan. Yesterday that country bombed the Philippine upon to ensure compliance with practice blackouts of all Islands. What will the conclusion of this world chaos bring? lights on blackout drill nights.

Only God knows”.

Fergus Falls had four blackouts, two in December of 1942, The president of the school, Pastor Erwin Martinius Strom one in May 1943, and another in later August 1943. The first (1891-1969), wrote that the war had put “everything out of blackout came on Monday, December 7, 1942, exactly one its proper equilibrium,” for homes were “broken up;” schools year after the infamous Pearl Harbor attack, and was judged were “handicapped by a lack of teachers;” and “anxiety, fear, a “real success.” Air raid wardens watched “every block in the sorrow, and sad forebodings” filled the “hearts of men and city” to ensure that “no beams of light” inside a house would women everywhere.” “penetrate the outside darkness.” Everyone was required to “turn off all lights visible from the outside” of the house President Strom, grandfather of current Hillcrest choir “immediately” upon hearing “intermittent blasts” from five director David Strom, looked to the Lord to help the “whistles located in various parts of the city.” If a person was Lutheran Brethren Schools weather the storms of World driving a car, the driver was to park the vehicle at a curb and War II. The school continued to provide a Christ-centered then “turn out the lights” and walk, but “DO NOT RUN to the education while the winds of war swept the continents from nearest shelter.” If caught outside while walking, one should 1941 through the war’s conclusion in 1945. stay on the sidewalk, staying off the streets, where emergency vehicles traveled. Streetlights would be turned off, making it Students who had graduated from the high school joined imperative that pedestrians stay off the streets, because the the armed forces of the United States and served in Africa, headlights of emergency vehicles were painted black except Asia, and Europe. Herman Engebretson was in the Army and for a 3/8th inch stripe and anyone in the street might be went to North Africa, Sicily and to Italy. Thor Bugge (’43), accidentally hit. All instructions for the blackout were to be Roger Amberson (’43) and Ellsworth Gilseth (’41) also joined followed until hearing the“all-clear signal,”which was“a straight various services. two-minute signal” on the whistles. Any who did not comply with the blackout were subject to fines or imprisonment, This is the story of how the Lutheran Brethren Schools according to city regulations passed for the good of all. participated in the blackouts in case of an air raid in Fergus Falls in the war years of the 1940s. “Would there be any The second blackout on December 14th, part of a ten-state occasion” for the enemy “to bomb Minnesota?” asked James test, was “declared an unqualified success” in Fergus Falls Martin Hagen, a civil defense organizer, in 1942. Yes, said and in Minnesota generally. Civil Defense Commander Hagen, because Minnesota furnished the “greater part of the Leo Dominick judged that the second “black-out worked iron ore” that industry turned into “steel for war equipment.” smoother than the initial black-out.” The only violators President Franklin D. Roosevelt fed fears when he “admitted were those who had inadvertently left basement lights that under certain conditions the bombing of our heavy burning. Although the warning whistles were not heard industrial areas at Detroit and the shelling of New York City well throughout Fergus Falls, everyone became aware of were possibilities. FDR also said in a press conference that the blackout as soon as the streetlights were turned off.

Alaska could be subject to attack.

The third blackout during the war came in the form of a “semiFergus Falls was unlikely to be targeted directly, but bombers surprise” format, in which citizens knew that the exercise could strike the city because it was situated “close to the would occur on May 7, 1943, but did not know the exact time Iron Range country” and near the port of Duluth. The chief of it, except that it would start at “some time between 9 and local Air Raid Warden, Judge Frank C. Barnes, pointed out 11 o-clock.” As soon as one heard the “shrieking whistles” or that long-range bombers could fly a polar route and rapidly saw the streetlights turned off, he or she was to follow the byreach Minnesota. now-typical lights-out and sheltering routine.

Continued on Page 14

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FINANCE

Charitable CONNECTION In Virginia’s Governor Bob McDonnell’s response to President Obama’s State of The Union address he said, “No government program can replace the actions of caring Americans freely choosing to help one another. The scriptures say: ‘To whom much is given much will be required’.” He was quoting Luke 12:48. Many of us have been given much. We will be held accountable for how we manage what God has given us. This is very good news as we now have an opportunity to invest in what really counts - His kingdom.

I would like to review a giving method I discussed in a previous Hillcrest Connection article.

A very easy way to include giving in your estate plan is to simply make your favorite charity the beneficiary of your IRA or qualified retirement plan. If you’re married you can make the charity the contingent beneficiary.

This designation supersedes other legal documents such as wills or trusts. They help avoid probate costs and can have significant tax savings. For example, if a $100,000 IRA is passed on to an individual it could result in a $40,000 state and federal income tax bill; a charity would benefit from the full $100,000. Other types of investments such as fixed interest annuities, variable annuities, index annuities and stocks that have appreciated in value could have similar tax benefits.

I think each of us should review how we give, spend and save what we have received. However, we should also be responsible for how our estates will be divided when we go to be with the Lord.

Time is short. Today we have the opportunity to do what God requires. Let’s make the most of it.

HLA

Legacy club The HLA Legacy Club acknowledges individuals whose accumulative giving reaches $25,000 or above.

Adleide Gunhus Agnes Freeland Charitable Trust Clara Olsoe David & Val Egge Donald & Marie Roberts Charitable Foundation Dwight & Gwen Schmidt Edward D. Jones & Co. Eleanor Sollie Elling & Barbara Halvorson Evelyn Ebner Estate First State Bank of Alex-Carlos G. T. & Ann Gunhus Gladys Jensen Interstate Inc. Irv & Kay Bergsagel J. Burdean & Kay Rogness Joel & Barbara Egge John & Cheryl Backstrom John & Donna Olson Kenneth & Mavis Austin

LaWayne & Bev Rogness Lori Fedje Mabel L.Foss Estate Marian Egge Estate Minnie Nelson Nordic Contracting Co Inc Norma Senum Olav & Gina Sandnes Olsoe Charitable Remainder Trust Otter Tail Power Company Richard & Linda Heggland Ron Powell Roy & Barbara Heggland Security State Bank Stanley Arlton Estate Steve & Linda Brue Steve Benjamin Victory Lutheran Brethren Church Viking Construction Corporation Wesley & Ruth Orrestad

HLA

Heritage society The HLA Heritage Society acknowledges those who have named Hillcrest in an estate gift.

Annual Fund Goal 09-10 $355,000.00

Contributions as of 1/31/10 Actual YTD Budgeted YTD Shortfall YTD

$184,390.00 $207,080.00 ($ 22,960.00)

STUDENT ACTIVITIES CENTER LOAN INFORMATION Keven Crabtree RFC Securities offered through USAllianz Securities • Member NASD, SIPC, Registered Investment Advisor 5701 Golden Hills Drive, Minneapolis, MN 55416 888.446.5872

Original Loan Amount Total Loan Amount Due Principal Paid against Loan to Date Monthly Payments (Interest & Principal)

As of 1/31/10 $1,326,565.00 $1,085,772.87 $ 240,792.18 $ 8,150.00

FINANCE 10000-5000-1000-500-120 Club Membership George & Alice Aase Fergus Falls, MN Kathi Abel Fergus Falls, MN Guy & Beth Adams Naperville, IL Roy & Marie Barsness Kirkland, WA Irv & Kay Bergsagel Minnetonka, MN Tim and Mary Bigelow Erhard, MN Paul & Olive Blikstad Dalton, MN Joyce Boehland Arvada, Co Roger & Kay Borowski Campbell, MN Doug & Nancy Bounds Jamestown, ND Harold & Cathy Brokke Minneapolis, MN Benjamin Brue Fergus Falls, MN Charlie & Carrie Brue Fergus Falls, MN Lindsey Brue Fergus Falls, MN Matthew & Faith Brue St. Louis Park, MN Nick & Dahlia Brue Minneapolis, MN Steve & Linda Brue Fergus Falls, MN Titus Brue Fergus Falls, MN Thor & Edna Bugge Willow Street, PA Lorraine Burt Woodbury, MN John & Larissa Campbell Vermillion, SD Keven & Debbie Crabtree Fergus Falls, MN David & Dagney Christenson Lynnwood, WA Lane & Lori Christopherson Lynnwood, WA Sharon Daines Bozeman, MT Thelma P. Dalene East Hartland, CT David & Val Egge Alexandria, MN Joel & Barbara Egge Fergus Falls, MN John N. Endrud Rockford, IL Spencer Endrud Fargo, ND Rich & Jeanene Engebretson Edina, MN Elroy and Judy Erickson Vancouver, WA Gary & Cynthia Erickson Dalton, MN Gerald and Sheri Erickson Mukilteo, WA Micah Erickson Redding, CA Ryan & Kristin Erickson Fargo, ND Carol Featherstone New Hope, MN Lori Fedje Beaverton, OR Gay & Carol Folden Fergus Falls, MN Mark & Joan Folden San Jose, CA David & Ruthann Forland Huntington , NY Allen & Goldie Foss Everett, WA E. Thor & Lillian Foss Succasunna, NJ Mark & Joanne Foss Glastonbury, CT Lisa Schultz-Fred Fergus Falls, MN Sharon Fuhrman Fergus Falls, MN Grand Lake Trust Lake Park, MN Wayne & Ruth Goats Scottsdale, AZ Adleide Gunhus Fergus Falls, MN GT & Ann Gunhus Underwood, MN Victoria Hackett San Francisco, CA Elling & Barbara Halvorson Woodinville, WA Evelyn Hansen Snohomish, WA Greg & Rita Hayek Fergus Falls, MN Kim Hazel Eden Prairie, MN Joy Headrick Denver, CO David & Beverly Heggen Rothsay, MN Amanda Heggland Gainesville, FL

Rich & Linda Heggland Diane Ihrke Gary & Renee Isaac Jeff & Missi Isaac Rich & Karen Iverson Martha Jacobs Elizabeth Jacobsen Herbert & Helen Jacobsen John & Annie Jacobsen Gladys Jensen Ken and Ann Jensen Tim & Connie Jensen Dennis & Kathleen Johnson Fred & Elsie Johnson Tim & Karen Johnson Brent & Ruth Juliot Elmer & Julia Kaardal Curtis & Elaine Kavlie Vaughn and Deb Kavlie John & Janet Kilde Kermit & Grace Kvamme Andy & Brenda Lacey Jack & Sharon Lacey Paul & Jane Langseth Morris & Myrt Larsen Josiah Larson Lawn Pro of Fergus Falls Frank & Elaine Legerat Brian & Jennifer Leivstad Patricia Linson Lloyd & Thelma Listor Steve & Heidi Listor Harry Ludvigsen Joel & Alice Lunde Dennis & Dorothy Madsen Jeffrey & Eileen Mahn Brad & Trena Martinson Jerry Martinsen Masson Family Foundation Luther & Adeline Mathison John & Lisa McAteer Bruce & Irene Miller Jr. Tom & Gladys Moline Alice Monson Wallace & Audrey Ness Peter & Lillian Nilsen William & Marcia Nilsen Clara Olsoe John & Donna Olson Wesley & Ruth Orrestad Graham & Priscilla Parker Kevin & Linda Patch Rollin & Beverly Pederson Kenneth & Norma Peeders Ed & Elaine Peterson Irv & Helen Peterson Frank & Karen Pellegrino Gregg and Marie Preston

Make a Difference

New Port Richey, FL Fergus Falls, MN Denver, CO Fergus Falls, MN Barnesville, MN Seatonville, IL Minnetonka, MN Mt. Bethel, PA Succasunna, NJ Staten Island, NY S. Huntington, NY Fergus Falls, MN Fergus Falls, MN Boone, IA Little Falls, MN Fergus Falls, MN St. Paul, MN Richville, MN Eden Prairie, MN Fergus Falls, MN Fergus Falls, MN Wendell, MN Wendell, MN Fergus Falls, MN Fergus Falls, MN Minneapolis, MN Fergus Falls, MN Fairbanks, AK Loveland, CO Fargo, ND Brooklyn, NY Mt. Bethel, PA Kerhonkson, NY Fergus Falls, MN Fergus Falls, MN Albuquerque, NM Fergus Falls, MN Fargo, ND Laguna Beach, CA Maddock, ND Mt. Bethel, PA Mt. Bethel, PA Wahpeton, ND Minneapolis, MN Fergus Falls, MN Brewster, NY East Hartland, CT Seattle, WA Fergus Falls, MN Bellevue, WA Richland, WA Fergus Falls,MN Billings, MT Richville, MN Wahpeton, ND Menomonie, WI Mt. Bethel, PA Fergus Falls, MN

Club Giving Levels

Wayne & Diane Preston Chippewa Falls, WI LeRoy & MaryAnn Quernemoen Fergus Falls, MN Nick & Leanne Roberts Houlton, WI Burdean & Kay Rogness Eden Prairie, MN Darren Rogness Moorhead, MN Glenn & Vonnie Rogness Fergus Falls, MN Kevin & Brooke Rogness Fergus Falls, MN LaWayne & Bev Rogness Fergus Falls, MN Les & Leann Rogness Fergus Falls, MN Loran & Lois Rogness Fergus Falls, MN Eugene & Rhoda Rubey Eugene, OR Ron and Barbara Samuelsen East Hartland, CT Jack and Rochelle Sand Moorhead, MN Olav & Gina Sandnes Mt. Bethel, PA Will Sandnes Minneapolis, MN Lavona Sather Los Angeles, CA Matthew & Lynn Scarfo Island City, OR Rod & Jo Scheel Fergus Falls, MN Dwight & Gwen Schmidt Jamestown, ND Nick & Danielle Schmidt Jamestown, ND Security State Bank Fergus Falls, MN Ewald & Alice Sems Lehigh Acres, FL Norma Senum Mt. Bethel, PA Leland Sjule Springfield, MO Ed & Shirley Smith Laquey, MO Alf & June Soholt Bloomington, MN John & Tess Soholt Golden Valley, MN Eleanor Sollie Brooklyn, NY James & Pauline Stalsberg Viroqua, WI Arna Stedjan Fergus Falls, MN Wayne & Nancy Stender Fergus Falls, MN Dan & Eleanor Stenoein Minneapolis, MN Robert and Lorrette Strack Rochester, MN Shawn & Amy Stroud Basehor, KS Wai Nam Tam Flanders, NJ Guy & Amy Taylor Fergus Falls, MN Borgny Thompson East Hartland, CT Gary & Dorinne Thompson Fergus Falls, MN Justin & Phyliss Thompson Antler, ND Nancy Thompson Boca Raton, FL Rosemary Traina Roxbury, NJ Randy & Diane Trettevik Mill Creek, WA Lois Tweten Helena, MT Marvin & Opal Undseth Salem, OR Steve & Lois Undseth Fergus Falls, MN Fred & Mayling Valder Moorhead, MN Marty & Mim Valder Everett, WA Ruth Vall Aitkin, MN James VerSteeg Fergus Falls, MN David & Lynn Vettrus Watertown, MN Victory LB Church Jamestown, ND Les Watson Fergus Falls, MN Arthur & Marion Wickstrom Fergus Falls, MN Rosalie Williamsen Medical Lake, WA Jim & Cheryl Wold Fergus Falls, MN Bettee Woodburn Rolling Hills, CA

Club|500

Club|5000

at Hillcrest

Club|120

Join the Club!

Club|1000 Club|2500 Club|10000

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CAMPUS NEWS 2010 Hillcrest Academy Band Tour 2010 Band Tour Schedule, March 26 – April 11 Fri, March 26

Living Word Fellowship Dickinson, ND

7:00 pm Concert

Sun, March 28 Yellowstone LBC 10:30 am Service/Concert

Billings, MT

Mon, March 29 LBC of Nampa 7:00 pm Concert

Nampa, ID

Tue, March 30 Immanuel LBC 7:00 pm Concert

Eugene, OR Wed, March 31 Solid Rock Comm. Church 7:00 pm Concert

Salem, OR

The Hillcrest band is in great anticipation for the band tour trip to the Pacific Northwest. The band has been practicing for months to learn and perfect the songs chosen by the band director, Mr. Doering.

They will be leaving during spring break on March 26 and will return April 11. The band will play a total of 15 concerts. They will be playing in North Dakota, Montana, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington.

Some places they will be visiting include: the Oregon coast, Mount Saint Helen, and the famous Pike Place Market in Seattle. Band director Mr. Doering said, “I’m looking forward to a great trip, as we minister through music and fellowship together and see the sights of the Pacific Northwest.”

Thur, April 1

Faith Fellowship LBC Kelso, WA

7:00 pm Concert

Fri, April 2

Peace LBC Olympia, WA

7:00 pm Concert

Sat, April 3

Word of Life LBC Marysville, WA

7:00 pm Concert

Sun, April 4

Word of Life LBC Marysville, WA

10:30 am Service

Mon, April 5

Rock of Ages LBC Seattle, WA

7:00 pm Concert

Tue, April 6

First Lutheran Church Ellensburg, WA

7:00 pm Concert

Fri, April 9

Elim LBC Malta, MT

7:00 pm Concert

Sat, April 10

Grace LBC Bismarck, ND

7:00 pm Concert

Sun, April 11

Grace LBC Bismarck, ND

10:30 am Service

Bethel LBC Fergus Falls, MN

7:00 pm Home Concert

CAMPUS NEWS Sophia Undseth recognized as a National Merit Scholar Finalist

by Trisha Marczak Article reprinted courtesy of the Fergus Falls Daily Journal Sophia Undseth says she wouldn’t have made it to where she is today without the encouragement of her teachers at Hillcrest Lutheran Academy.

Recently selected as a National Merit Scholar finalist, Undseth stands among the top students in the nation.

She was named a finalist after a series of tests and a detailed application.

First, Undseth took a PSAT test, which is often considered to be a practice SAT test. After taking the PSAT, she learned she scored within the top two percentile in the nation. Following her top score, she completed a detailed application. The last step was to take the SATs. Her high score then qualified her as a National Merit Scholar finalist.

Her recognition gives her more than just a boost of confidence - it now opens up the doors to scholarship opportunities at universities throughout the country.

“It opens up a lot more opportunities,” said Undseth, who before receiving the award, was working to narrow her options down.

While she’s applied a few colleges, she’s not yet made up her mind.

While in high school, Sophia has been involved in all she could fit into her schedule.

That’s included three sports, band, choir, key club and the National Honor Society, to name a few.

Her recent recognition is a reflection of the education she’s been provided with at Hillcrest Lutheran Academy, Undseth said.

“It helps to have people around you to encourage you to do your best,” she said.

“It gives me the chance for an adventure if I want it,” Undseth said.

Now, just months before she graduates, it’s become evident that the support is paying off.

She’s now looking at colleges in the Twin Cities, as well as schools in Texas, Oregon and Massachusetts.

Undseth was also named the AAA female winner for her school for her involvement with the arts, academics and athletics.

Andrew Hohncke honored as state AAA finalist Article reprinted courtesy of the Fergus Falls Daily Journal

Andrew Hohncke has had a busy high school career, but his accomplishments relating to academics, athletics and the arts haven’t gone unnoticed.

Hohncke, a senior at Hillcrest Lutheran Academy, was honored recently as a sub section finalist for the state AAA award.

He was first nominated as the male AAA school representative for Hillcrest Lutheran Academy.

Following a detailed application for the award, he was chosen as one of the four finalists within the section.

Hohncke has been involved with band and choir for all four years of high school, earning superior ratings each year.

His participation has stretched to include jazz band, concert choir and Vocalise, a sub group of concert choir.

On the athletic end of the spectrum, he’s taken part in football, earning all-conference and all-section recognition.

He also served as the team’s captain his senior year.

On the basketball court, Hohncke has also earned allconference status, while serving as the team’s captain for the past two years.

He has also been a state finalist for the long jump in track.

Academically, he’s maintained a 4.1 grade point average, while taking on AP and honors courses.

Despite a full schedule, Hohncke said the experiences he’s created have only enhanced his time in high school.

“It kind of seems like a lot and sometimes I didn’t like how busy I was, but I really enjoyed it. However much I put into school is what I got out, and I put a lot in,” Hohncke said.

Hohncke has not yet decided where he will attend college next year, but is narrowing his choices down to Wheaton College in Illinois or the Carlson School of Management at the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities. For now, he’s focussed on continuing to make the most of high school.

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ALUMNI NEWS

ALUMNI NEWS

It’s Nomination Time We would appreciate your help in selecting candidates for the 2010 “Alumnus of the Year.” Please submit the name(s) of the Alumni whom you believe are deserving of recognition and fall into the following criteria:

Have graduated from Hillcrest Academy Have demonstrated faithful service in church, community and/or nation Have shown continued interest in the mission and ministry of Hillcrest Academy Please email the name, address and a summary of your reasons for nominating this person to President Steve Brue at sbrue@ffhillcrest.org. You may also contact Steve by phone at 218-739-3371. Deadline for nominations is May 12, 2010.

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ALUMNI NEWS

In Memory: Vic Kumma From the (Lehigh Valley) Express Times 12-11-08 Victor D. “Vic” Kumma, 48, of Phillipsburg, NJ, passed away on Wednesday, December 10, 2008 in Hospice House of the VNA of St. Luke’s. He was born on October 15, 1960 in Washington State. He was the husband of the former Rosemary Mazza. He grew up in Lynnwood, Washington, and is a graduate of Hillcrest Lutheran Academy in Minnesota.

He served in the Army, where he became a Russian Linguist stationed in Berlin during the Cold War. He has been employed by Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm, the VNA of Easton, and most importantly, the State Theatre in Easton, Pa. At the theatre, he was Volunteer Coordinator, House Manager, and Freddy Coordinator. He was well known for his singing at the Phillipsburg Christian and Missionary Alliance Church, and for his performances in local community theaters, especially Country Gate in Belvidere where he and his wife met. In addition to his loving wife, Rosemary, Vic is survived by two daughters, Valerie and Natalie of Phillipsburg; his mother, Judith of Washington State; three sisters, Evalyn (H’77) and Margaret (H’81), both of Washington State, and Cathy of Virginia, and a brother, William of Washington State.

Blackouts at Hillcrest (continued from page 7) The “semi-surprise” blackout began with the wail of the siren at 9:20 p.m. and ended with an all-clear signal at 10:13 that night. The Hillcrest Academy building was again the focus of a practice incident for the Fergus Falls fire department, and the police responded to a simulated “disturbance” at the public school. All went smoothly, except for an alleged violation by A.R. Schultz at his home located at 531 West Alcott Avenue, near the Hillcrest school building. Schultz had a “greenish” colored light that he insisted was approved by “national blackout officials as being all right to use during blackouts.” He had to pay a fine of $13.37 for using the light to illuminate the house numbers on the front of his home.

By August of 1943, it seemed that the public was tired of practicing for a bombing blitz that was unlikely to strike Minnesota. The blackout was scheduled for a night between the 22nd and the 28th; however, the exact date and time was a “military secret.” The blackout drill of August 24th brought a tepid response in Fergus Falls, for “about fifteen violations” occurred on that night. “The August black-out has come and gone,” ho-hummed a local reporter, and it was not a “full success.” Weary of the war and no longer wary of an air attack, enthusiasm for the drills waned.

In January of 1944, the War Department and the Office of Civilian Defense, both based in Washington, D.C., ordered an

end to practice blackouts nationally, except for the Atlantic and Pacific coasts. The blackouts interfered with production of war goods and government officials deemed that “most communities [were] sufficiently well organized to cope with such emergencies as can now reasonably be anticipated.” It was clear that German and Japanese aircraft did not have the capability of flying so far over land and sea as to attack the interior of the U.S. during the war.

President E.M. Strom presided over the Lutheran Brethren Schools during World War II and he admitted that “the present war conditions” had “hampered our work to some extent.” Yet he stressed that “in times like these,” the school would “still be a Christ-centered school” where “young people [were] being led to the Lord” and called to work in his Kingdom.

In the school chapel, a large map of the world showed the locations of the Lutheran Brethren School alumni by means of little lights placed on a multitude of points around the globe. During the war, the little lights were shining brightly on the map from far-flung locations, as graduates in the military kept the faith in their journeys. In those years of World War II, President E.M. Strom and the Lutheran Brethren Schools tried to serve as a “light house on the Hill,” reflecting the light of the Gospel to a war-wearied world.

ALUMNI NEWS

Join us for Graduation Weekend 2010 May 28-30 Friday, May 28 Saturday, May 29 Saturday, May 29 Sunday, May 30

All-School Concert Alumni Brunch Senior Class Night Commencement

Bethel Lutheran Church Student Activities Center Student Activities Center Student Activities Center

7 pm 10 am 7 pm 10 am

CLASS UPDATES 1980’s

Neil B. Knutson (H‘89) writes: Greetings old timers! I was married 7 years ago to a young lady from Wisconsin.

We now have two young girls and another someone on the way. I am in school full time after being laid off last year. God bless y’all.

2000’s

Dr.s Natalie (Newman) Muth (H’01) and Carson Muth were blessed with a daughter, Ella Nicole Muth on August 15th, 2009. Ella weighed 5 pounds 7 ounces and measuring 21 inches. The family lives in Grand Forks, ND.

ALUMNI UPDATE

Name

Grad Year Complete this form and mail it to Hillcrest Connection, 610 Hillcrest Drive, Fergus Address Falls, MN 56537, or email your update to City, State, Zip connection@ffhillcrest.org Phone Email News

Hillcrest CONNECTION

Picture Caption

Shonelle (Randall) Edenloff (H’05) We moved to Florida from Minnesota in October 2009. Ryan was blessed to go back to teaching at Creel Elementary.

15

PAID

Hillcrest Band Tour - Pacific Northwest Easter Vacation Senior Mission Trip- Dominican Republic Junior Trip- Chicago Creation Museum, Cincinnati Classes resume after vacation Alumni Art Show – Chapel HIT’s Auction Graduation Weekend

Fergus Falls, MN Permit #14

March 26-April 11 March 27-April 11 April 11-16th

April 12 April 15-18 April 16-17 May 1 May 28 - 30

Non-Profit US Postage

Upcoming Events

Three ways to

Make a Difference at Hillcrest

Create an endowment.

You can do this now with cash or stock, or later with an estate gift. Your fund will make a lasting difference by producing income every year for the stated purpose.

Leave a bequest.

Designate an amount or percentage of your estate for a specific purpose or for unrestricted use. Such gifts provide encouragement and always make a difference.

Give “obsolete” insurance.

You may no longer need the protection of a life insurance policy and can transfer ownership to Hillcrest Lutheran Academy, thereby making a significant difference to us and providing yourself with an income charitable deduction now.

Contact Steve Brue at 218-739-3371 or sbrue@ffhillcrest.org for more information

Hillcrest Lutheran Academy 610 Hillcrest Drive Fergus Falls, MN 56537

CONNECTION

• Graduation Highlights • Athletic Update • Campus News • Reunion Photos

Hillcrest

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