Lifelong Connections Dennis and Corliss Stark ‘68 May 2018 Alexandria Alumni Magazine
Inside...
Bright Stars, Bright Futures
Legacy Business Alexandria Eye Clinic, PA
Teacher Innovation Grants
INSIDE Published by Alexandria Public Schools with financial support from the Alexandria Public Schools Education Foundation
ALEXANDRIA PUBLIC SCHOOLS BOARD OF EDUCATION Dean Anderson Dave Anderson ‘72 Pam Carlson Bob Cunniff Angie (Benham, ‘88) Krebs Sandy Susag Alan E. Zeithamer ‘72 SUPERINTENDENT Julie Critz EDITOR Jill Johnson Communications & Marketing Supervisor Alexandria Public Schools
2018 Issue
3 Class of 2018 Legacy Students Legacy Families
‘85
‘87
CONTENTS
PARTINGTON LEGACY Taylor Partington (2018) Parents Tom (‘85) & Jill (Eveslage, ‘87) Partington
Alumni Faculty Mary (Vano) Carpenter ‘00
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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jo Colvin Rachel Barduson COVER PHOTO Jennifer Guenther Photography ‘91 Alexandria, Minnesota www.jenniferguentherphotography.com 320-815-8174 CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Jennifer Guenther Photography ‘91 Select Digital Memories Echo Press
3 Legacy Families 10 Alumni Faculty Profile/ Retiring Staff 11 Alumni Feature Story 14 Bright Stars, Bright Futures 16 Home Grown Leaders 18 Legacy Business Spotlight 19 Class Notes 20 Education Foundation News 22 Alumni Marketplace 24 Homecoming Connections
KEEP IN TOUCH Alumni Feature Dennis & Corliss Stark ‘68
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PROJECT ASSISTANCE Carol Gaffaney ART DIRECTION/GRAPHIC DESIGN Lynn Barton Kerry (Olson, ‘88) Browen QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS Please direct questions or comments to Jill Johnson at jjohnson@alexandria.k12.mn.us. SUBSCRIPTIONS Alexandria Alumni Magazine is a complimentary annual publication of Alexandria Public Schools with financial support from the Alexandria Education Foundation. Donations to help offset the costs of the magazine are welcome and can be sent to: Alexandria Education Foundation, P.O. Box 308, Alexandria, MN 56308.
The Alexandria Alumni Magazine is an annual publication that seeks to connect graduates of Alexandria High School (AHS), Central High School (CHS), Jefferson High School (JHS), Alexandria Area High School (AAHS), non-graduates who attended these schools for at least one year, and all present and former members of the faculty, administration and school board.
Legacy Business Alexandria Eye Clinic, PA
2 | Alexandria Public Schools • www.alexandria.k12.mn.us
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Let us know where you are and what you are doing so we can connect you to your classmates through the Alexandria Alumni Magazine. We would greatly appreciate your assistance in our efforts to reach out to alumni by making them aware of this magazine. Additional copies are available at the District Welcome Center, 1410 South McKay Avenue, Alexandria, and online at www.alexandria.k12.mn.us. To request a copy by mail, email your current contact information to jjohnson@alexandria.k12.mn.us or call (320) 762-2141 ext. 4202. ©2018 Alexandria Public Schools ISD 206. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without obtaining written permission. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Alexandria Public Schools P.O. Box 308 Alexandria, MN 56308
Legacy Families This year we honor these graduates of the Class of 2018 as legacy students. Their mothers and/or fathers, and in many cases their grandparents and/or great-grandparents, graduated from one of our high schools (Alexandria, Central and Jefferson).
‘99
‘90
‘96
ANDERSON LEGACY BASSETT LEGACY BERGERSON LEGACY Jason Bergerson (2018) Mother Heidi (Jorgenson, ‘90) Bergerson
Lynnea Bassett (2018) Father Michael (‘96) Bassett
Shanay Anderson (2018) Mother Tiffany (Schnell, ‘99) Winter
‘68 ‘54
‘91
‘89 ‘91
‘62
BAAS LEGACY Jordon Baas (2018) Parents Tim (‘89) & Melissa (Pfeffer, ‘91) Baas Grandmother Marie (Collins, ‘68) Baas
BITZAN LEGACY
BREITKREUTZ LEGACY
Cayla Bitzan (2018) Grandparents Dennis H. (‘54) & Kathryn (Tewes, ‘62) Johnson Great-grandmother Marie (Myhr, ‘31) Johnson – no picture available
Taylor Breitkreutz (2018) Father Doug (‘91) Breitkreutz
‘88
‘91
‘96
‘63
BREZINA LEGACY
BURGENER LEGACY CAVERS LEGACY
Joe Brezina (2018) Father Kevin (‘88) Brezina Grandfather Ron (‘63) Brezina
Terry Burgener (2018) Mother Korie Mithun ‘91
Sophia Cavers (2018) Father Andrew (‘96) Cavers 2018 • Alexandria Alumni Magazine | 3
Legacy Families
‘87
‘83
‘88
CHILDERS LEGACY
CHRISTENSON LEGACY
Cole Childers (2018) Mother Katie (Mattson, ‘88) Childers
Nolan Christenson (2018) Father Steve (‘83) Christenson
‘97
Austin Michael Clayton (2018) Father Michael (‘87) Clayton
‘76
‘96
‘73
CLAYTON LEGACY
‘89
‘53
‘67
CLITTY LEGACY
DRIEMEYER LEGACY
Austin Clitty (2018) Parents Jeremy (‘97) & Erica (Anderson, ‘96) Clitty Grandmother Amy (Schwendemann, ‘76) Gardner Grandfather Marlin (‘73) Anderson Great-grandmother Arlou (Urness, ‘53) Schwendemann
Emalee Driemeyer (2018) Mother Michelle (Kolle, ‘89) Driemeyer Grandmother Janet (Jaci, ‘67) Kleven Kolle
‘98
‘91 ‘67
‘99
‘68
‘70
‘69
DUMMER LEGACY
ENGELBRECHT LEGACY
Zachary Dummer (2018) Parents Erik (‘99) & Carrie (Vendel, ‘98) Dummer Grandparents Paul (‘68) & Devona (Bylund, ‘70) Vendel
Hunter Engelbrecht (2018) Father Darren (‘91) Engelbrecht Grandparents Warren (‘67) & Norma (Patrick, ‘69) Engelbrecht
4 | Alexandria Public Schools • www.alexandria.k12.mn.us
Legacy Families ‘98
‘78
‘90 ‘86
‘88
‘79
ERICKSON LEGACY Lindsey Erickson (2018) Mother Heather (Trude, ‘98) Erickson-Kapphahn Grandfather Curt (‘78) Trude Grandmother Sonja (Peterson, ‘79) Folger
FISHER LEGACY
ERLANDSON LEGACY
Landon Fisher (2018) Mother Jana (Schoeler, ‘86) Fisher
Robb Erlandson (2018) Parents Duane (‘88) & Kari (Hardie, ‘90) Erlandson
‘88 ‘81
‘91 ‘92
FRICK LEGACY
FRIDGEN LEGACY
GARRETT LEGACY
Alexa Frick (2018) Father Ronald (‘91) Frick
Jared Fridgen (2018) Mother Wendy (Krueger, ‘88) Fridgen Father Shawn (‘92) Fridgen
Raylinn Garrett (2018) Father Michael (‘81) Garrett
‘86
‘90
‘81
GOULD LEGACY
GROVE LEGACY
GYLSEN LEGACY
Courtney Gould (2018) Father Wayde James (‘86) Gould
Jackson Grove (2018) Mother Angie (Converse, ‘90) Grove
Kyle Gylsen (2018) Father LeRoy (‘81) Gylsen
2018 • Alexandria Alumni Magazine | 5
Legacy Families
‘87 ‘94
‘87
‘84
‘62
HONKOMP LEGACY
HARRIS LEGACY Tyler Harris (2018) Mother Christine (Meyer, ‘94) Harris
JODSAAS LEGACY Josh Jodsaas (2018) Parents Tim (‘87) & Vicki (Kelly, ‘87) Jodsaas Grandfather Joe Kelly ‘62
Paige Honkomp (2018) Father Curt (‘84) Honkomp
‘97 ‘90 ‘87 ‘97
JOHNSON LEGACY
JOHNSTON LEGACY
Alexander Johnson (2018) Mother Tina Woolery ‘90
Blake Johnston (2018) Parents Shane (‘97) & Sarah (Olson, ‘97) Johnston
KLIMEK LEGACY Chelsey Klimek (2018) Father Jim (‘87) Klimek (d. 2008)
‘00 ‘75 ‘93
‘90
‘73
KREMER LEGACY LARSON LEGACY LARSON LEGACY Adam Kremer (2018) Jill (Charboneau, ‘90) Thomas
Brandon Larson (2018) Father Jamie (‘93) Larson
6 | Alexandria Public Schools • www.alexandria.k12.mn.us
‘50
‘47
Kylie Larson (2018) Mother Katie Jo Larson (‘00) Grandparents Brian (‘75) & Karen (Freitag, ‘73) Larson Great-grandmother Doreen (Rabehl, ‘50) Freitag Great-grandfather James (‘47) Larson
Y
Legacy Families ‘94
‘71 ‘73
‘64
LASOTA LEGACY Connor Alois LaSota (2018) Mother Kasey (Connor, ‘94) LaSota Grandfather Tim (‘64) Connor Great-grandfather Tom Connor (no grad year/photo available)
LEDMAN LEGACY
LINDSEY LEGACY
Ryan Ledman (2018) Father Ken (‘71) Ledman
Kaeley Lindsey (2018) Mother Randi (Lindsey, ‘02) Olson (no photo available) Grandfather Kenneth (‘73) Lindsey
‘85 ‘81 ‘86
‘73
‘62
‘64
LOTTI LEGACY
LUDWIG LEGACY
MATEER LEGACY
Levi Lotti (2018) Mother Rita (Lindsey, ‘86) Lotti
Bryce Ludwig (2018) Parents Trevor (‘85) & Shelly (Sternberg, ‘81) Ludwig Grandparents Tommy (‘62) & Doris (Medenwaldt, ‘64) Ludwig
William “Shaun” Mateer (2018) Father Curt (‘73) Mateer
‘96
‘95
LAMB LEGACY
‘92
‘86
‘71
MINNERATH LEGACY
Makenna Lamb (2018) Parents Jason (‘96) & Christina (Sward, ‘95) Lamb Ross Minnerath (2018) Grandmother Theresa O’Brien ‘71 Mother Renee Sue Great-grandfather Jack O’Brien ‘47 (Augeson, ‘86) Minnerath Great-grandfather Elmer Orion Sward ‘47 Great-grandmother Duane Louise Hanson ‘49 – no photos
NAVRATIL LEGACY Bruce Navratil (2018) Derek (‘92) Navratil 2018 • Alexandria Alumni Magazine | 7
Legacy Families
‘83 ‘00
‘99
‘78 ‘69
‘95
‘59
NOHRE LEGACY
‘80
Brock Nohre (2018) Parents Dave (‘00) & Julie (Klingbeil, ‘99) Nohre Grandmother Joyce (McClellan, ‘69) Klingbeil Grandparents Mark (‘78) & Rebecca (Bitzan, ‘80) Nohre
YANDA LEGACY
ZINS LEGACY
Mallory Yanda (2018) Father Les (‘83) Yanda Grandmother Janice (Hiebel, ‘59) Yanda
Trent Zins (2018) Mother Jenna (Luckemeyer, ‘95) Zins
‘93
‘89
‘91 ‘66
PETERMEIER LEGACY Shannon Petermeier (2018) Father Sean (‘91) Petermeier
‘93
REILLY LEGACY
RYDBERG LEGACY
Emma Reilly (2018) Mother Christine (Pohlig, ‘93) Reilly Grandmother Kathleen (Haining, ‘66) Pohlig
Katlyn Rydberg (2018) Parents Kraig (‘89) & Heather (Roers, ‘93) Rydberg
‘89 ‘91
‘70
‘70
RICE LEGACY
Cameron Rice (2018) Father Scott (‘89) Rice, Mom Karen (Lindemann, ‘91) Rice Grandfather Tom (‘70) Rice Grandmother Sharron (Anderson, ‘70) Klimek 8 | Alexandria Public Schools • www.alexandria.k12.mn.us
‘94
‘63
‘94
‘66
‘60
‘67
SCHLOSSER LEGACY CJ Schlosser (2018) Parents Troy (‘94) & Kathy (Klimek, ‘94) Schlosser Grandparents Charles (‘60) & Sylvia (Forester, ‘63) Klimek Grandparents Richard (‘66) & LaNell (Guenther, ‘67) Schlosser
Legacy Families ‘93
‘89 ‘86
‘72
‘53
SCHMIDT LEGACY
SCHMIDT LEGACY SCHNEIDER LEGACY
Katelynn Schmidt (2018) Father Chris (‘93) Schmidt Grandfather Carter (‘72) Schmidt
Taryn Schmidt (2018) Mother Jodi (Bjerknes, ‘86) Schmidt
‘86
Chloe Schneider (2018) Colleen (Anderson, ‘89) Schneider Grandfather Elwood (‘53) Anderson
‘77 ‘93
‘52
‘82
SCHULTZ LEGACY
SJOMAN LEGACY
Megan Schultz (2018) Mother Kelly (Kluver, ‘86) Schultz Grandmother Shirley (Dropik, ‘52) Kluver
Tessa Sjoman (2018) Parents Stan (‘77) & Sara (Flynn, ‘82) Sjoman
‘91
VANDERTUIN LEGACY Kyle Vandertuin (2018) Father Brad (‘91) Vandertuin
THOMPSON LEGACY Jadrian Thompson (2018) Mother Kyla (French, ‘93) Thompson
‘83
‘85
WEGNER LEGACY
WIITANEN LEGACY
Harold Wegner (2018) Father Tom (‘85) Wegner
Olivia Wiitanen (2018) Mother Cathy (‘83) Juettner 2018 • Alexandria Alumni Magazine | 9
Alumni Faculty
Class of 2000 yearbook photo Above: Mary and her husband, Eric, are really happy with their decision to move back to Alexandria to raise their son, Jack.
Mary (Vano) Carpenter ‘00 Speech & Language Pathologist
What were the highlights of your own K-12 experience in Alexandria Public Schools? I loved my experience growing up in our school system and have great memories from Kindergarten through graduation! I have broad memories of developing lifelong friendships, being inspired by teachers who taught me to love learning, being encouraged by coaches who shaped my work ethic, and participating in a variety of extracurricular activities. These ideas are supported by many snapshots of specific times, such as getting “Mare Bear hugs” from teachers as a shy Carlos student, chocolate day, and memorizing the counties of Minnesota. At DMS, I remember the environmental fieldtrip, building a balsa wood structure for Odyssey of the Mind, and warming up to Jock Jams before gymnastic meets. Playing cymbals at the Rose Bowl Parade, fall activities for Swimming/Diving, and the Target Leaders retreat are examples of great memories from Jefferson. What does it mean to raise your son in Alexandria and the opportunity to bring him through the same educational experience that you were part of? My husband, Eric, and I have been back in Alexandria for almost 4 years and have been really happy with our decision to move here to
THANK YOU! Eric Amundson.................................. 30 years 6th Grade Teacher Susan Arnold .................................... 30 years Elementary Teacher Craig Bower ....................................... 3 years Paraprofessional Laurie Cook ........................................ 9 years Administrative Assistant Jean Dickey...................................... 14 years Paraprofessional Patricia Eckhoff................................. 29 years Paraprofessional Libby Erickson .................................. 34 years Elementary Teacher Jill Foley .......................................... 16 years Elementary Teacher Kathleen Hanson............................... 19 years Bus Paraprofessional Darold Hauer .................................... 10 years Bus Driver
raise Jack (who is 3). We already feel a great sense of community in raising him here. We can go to the park, grocery store, library, church… and see people who know and care about him! We’re excited for this to continue as he will be starting school before we know it. Our school system truly sticks to it’s vision, mission, and core values and I know teachers and staff will be working together to meet his needs and goals in both academic areas and in preparing him to be a respectful, kind, and responsible adult! How did you decide on your professional career? I’ve always enjoyed working with children and am fascinated with understanding development and learning. After receiving a Bachelor’s in Psychology, I moved out to Los Angeles where I did in-home early intervention for children with autism. I loved it and continued similar work in Seattle where I worked closely with a speech-language pathologist who was an excellent mentor. When I moved back to Minnesota, I went to school for Master’s degrees in Speech-Language Pathology and Applied Behavior Analysis and took a special interest in how teaching appropriate communication can help reduce challenging behavior. As a speech-language pathologist, I love helping students with a wide range of skills become better and more confident communicators, whether that means improving speech sound production, learning strategies for speaking fluently, or enhancing understanding and use of language. What is the best part of working for Alexandria Public Schools? I love working in our school district! My favorite part is being a member of such a great team. I work with many wonderful parents, teachers, staff, and administrators who work so hard to give our students the best educational experience possible! Plus, there are so many great kids that always brighten my day! It’s fun to see students gaining experiences and making memories that I know they will someday look back and reflect on with gratitude.
The following teachers and staff members are retiring during this school year. Please join us in thanking them for their service and dedication to the students and families of Alexandria Public Schools. Patricia Jensen................................. 17 years Special Education Teacher Kim Jorgenson ................................... 7 years Bus Driver Wendy Kohler ................................... 35 years Physical Education Teacher Colleen Lanes................................... 20 years Literacy Teacher Barb Larson ...................................... 26 years Director of Food & Nutrition Services Camilla Loch ...................................... 7 years Paraprofessional Bill Meighan ..................................... 27 years Science Teacher Joan Meyer ...................................... 31 years Kitchen Manager Kole Nelson ...................................... 34 years Custodian Sara Nelson...................................... 17 years Paraprofessional
10 | Alexandria Public Schools • www.alexandria.k12.mn.us
Mary Otto ........................................... 8 years Assistant Kitchen Manager Dave Peper....................................... 22 years Dean of Students Kelly Redmond ................................. 24 years Math Teacher Tom Roos ......................................... 36 years Special Education Teacher Mary Rostedt ...................................... 5 years Adaptive Physical Education Teacher Jayne Sahli ...................................... 18 years Elementary Teacher Lori Schmidt ..................................... 34 years Elementary Teacher Ruth Turner ....................................... 27 years Volunteer Coordinator Wendy Watts .................................... 22 years Business Teacher Tim Zupfer ........................................ 34 years Math Teacher
Above: Corliss and Dennis poring over their 1968 high school yearbook. Below: Dennis Stark and Corliss (Wagner) Stark Class of ’68 yearbook photos
Lifelong connections Alexandria couple commits life to giving back to the community. By Jo Colvin Photography by Jennifer Guenther Photography Corliss (Wagner) Stark admits she wasn’t too thrilled after her first date with Dennis Stark. They were sophomores at Jefferson High School (JHS) in Alexandria when he asked her to the Midwinter dance. “We double dated with my girlfriend. Afterward, she and I said, ‘We are never going to go out with those guys again,’ ” Corliss recalled with a laugh. That resolve did not last. Fifty years later, Corliss and Dennis sit together at their dining room table in Alexandria, poring over their 1968 high school yearbook. They reminisce about teachers and sports and music. They point out senior pictures of classmates, many with whom they remain connected. They banter back and forth over who lives and works where, who married whom, and the family members of their former classmates. Flipping through the well-worn pages, Corliss explained that of the 305 graduates of the class of 1968, 150 remain within a 50-mile radius of Alexandria, a testament to an unexplainable connection they all felt to the Alexandria community. The Starks’ connection to their classmates, their friends, and their families runs deep. And it started way back in 9th grade at Central Junior High School in Alexandria.
CORLISS Corliss, daughter of Joe and Regina Wagner, was born in South Dakota and moved to Alexandria in 1959. Her parents owned Van’s Motel and Cafe, where Northwoods Restaurant now stands. She attended Washington Elementary School, Central Junior High School, and JHS. Her involvement in choir, band, speech, class plays, and Declam planted the seed for her lifelong passion of connecting and giving back to her community. She reminisces with fondness of favorite teachers, sporting events, church activities, music, and Homecoming. “From the time we were freshmen, our class got first place in the Homecoming parade,” she said. Most importantly, she reflects on her friends, several with whom she has known since 3rd grade. To this day, they still get together a couple times every month. “There are also 12 of us who went to high school together and we almost all married who we went to high school with,” she explained. “We have been getting together at Christmas for 45 years!” “I am very lucky to have that core group of people.”
2018 • Alexandria Alumni Magazine | 11
The Stark family (l to r): son Durk, Michelle Niska (future daughter-in-law), Corliss and Dennis.
Above: The JHS ’68 Alum display their Class and Cardinal pride at the annual Homecoming Parade. Right: Corliss and Dennis admire items in the historical display case at Alexandria’s fire station.
Corliss is proud of the United Way annual coat drive that provides anyone in need with new or gently used coats, hats or mittens at no charge.
DENNIS Dennis, son of Raymond and Eleanor Stark, was born in Alexandria and raised on the family’s farm north of Garfield. The eldest of 3 children, his mother died when he was nine and he stepped in to help with his siblings and the farm. He attended District 17 one-room schoolhouse through 5th grade. He was at Garfield Elementary from grades 6 to 8, Central in 9th grade, and also graduated from JHS in 1968. Like his future bride, Dennis also relished the sense of connection he developed through his school career. While he was also in choir, Future Farmers of America, and science club, most of the connections he made in high school were through sports. He was part of the charter for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and was involved in wrestling, football, and track. “Our track team became very close. I’m still friends with them. A lot of them are married to her friends,” he said. “We had some great times!”
THEIR CONNECTION It was 9th grade science class and the new boy from Garfield sat behind Corliss. At first just classmates, Dennis got the courage a year later to ask her to the Midwinter dance. She said, yes, but afterward, she made that promise not to go out with him again. Dennis swears that it was his athletic prowess that finally changed her mind when they were seniors.
12 | May 2018 • www.alexandria.k12.mn.us
“We were playing football against Fergus Falls,” he explained. “We won 12-6 because I intercepted a pass and went in for the touchdown. All of a sudden I was the star.” “After he made that touch-down I decided I wanted to date him. That was it,” Corliss joked. They continued to date through their senior year and a month after graduation, in June 1968, the classmates married. The couple set off to college - Corliss attended Interstate Business College in Fargo and took some classes at Moorhead State University (MSU). Dennis attended MSU, where he majored in biology. It was during this time that their only son, Durk, was born. Despite working full-time jobs, attending college, and taking care of a baby, they joined the Jaycees in Dilworth, where they had moved shortly after starting college. This set in motion a life-long commitment to being involved in, and giving back to, their community. But they couldn’t seem to break that connection with Alexandria. In August 1975, the couple returned home when Dennis was offered a job at Olson’s Supermarket. “We always loved to be here, and knew that if we ever got the opportunity to come back, we would take it,” Corliss said. “He graduated on Friday, had an interview on Saturday, and we bought a house on Sunday.”
WORK CONNECTIONS After several years in the grocery industry, a new venture sparked Dennis’ interest. A member of the Alexandria Volunteer Fire Department, he enjoyed it so much he decided to pursue a career in firefighting. He went to Alexandria Technical College and became a full-time firefighting training coordinator, working with 65 fire departments. He was also an adjunct instructor through the National Fire Academy, conducting training throughout Minnesota. In 1995, he became the Alexandria Fire Marshal, a position he held until he retired in 2016. With that came what he considers the most rewarding aspect of his working life - getting involved with fire prevention education and with children. “I loved to have those kids at the fire station. I have great memories of all of them,” he said. “The fire service has been so wonderful.” As Dennis established his career, Corliss was also becoming successful and an integral part of the Alexandria community. Upon returning to Alexandria, she spent five years at Alexandria Lakes Area Sanitation District as an administrative assistant. After five more years working for the State of Minnesota Job Service, she became the promotion manager and executive assistant at KSAX, a job she held for 20 years. With the closing of the local broadcasting station came a new beginning for Corliss. But a brief stint working at home for West Central Sanitation taught her something important about herself. “I needed the people thing,” she said. Having been the chair for the United Way campaign, when she heard the organization had an opening as a special events coordinator and fundraiser, she made a phone call to ask for an interview. She was offered the job on the spot. After more than five years with the United Way, she retired in 2016. “It was such a personal reward, the people whose lives I was able to impact while working for UW,” Corliss said.
STAYING CONNECTED THROUGH COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT CORLISS • Member of Jaycee Women, president in Alexandria; district director; State Jaycee Women parliamentarian for MN Jaycee Women, named “Key Woman” for Jaycee Women in Minnesota. • Represented Ward 4 on the Alexandria City Council for seven years. • While on the city council, was on the task force for making the city library a county library; involved in construction of new City Hall and fire station. • Served for three years on the HRA Board and member of the LAR board. • Member of the Alexandria Economic Development Commission for 22 years. • General Advisory Council at Alexandria Technical College for 34 years. • Alexandria Fire Department Auxiliary. • Boy Scout Troop 416 committee chair for 10 years. • Graduate of Blandin Leadership Program. • First Lutheran Church Council. • Chair of HRA Board. • Charter founder of Alexandria Wrestling Booster Club. • United Way Community Impact Coalition, Women United Task Force, and Douglas County Task Force on Housing. Past member of UCAN. • Sunday school teacher, mentor for Confirmation at First Lutheran Church.
STAYING CONNECTED After years of working and volunteering, being on boards and organizing events, and furthering the progress of the town for which they have such a strong connection, retirement has done nothing to slow down the Starks. “Grass doesn’t grow under our feet. Or my head,” Dennis joked, referring to his lack of hair. The couple continues to foster the many friendships they formed in high school, and both are looking forward to their 50th class reunion set for June 30. They will once again be part of the Class of 1968 float in the Homecoming parade this fall, as they have done almost every year. They continue to be involved in First Lutheran Church, teaching Sunday school and confirmation classes. But most of all, they will continue to do as much as they can to contribute their time and talents. “We are so blessed to be here and to have had all the opportunities that we have had,” Corliss said. “To be able to give back is a real gift for us.” “To go off to college and come back and be very involved citizens of this wonderful growing community, it has been very rewarding,” her husband agreed. As far as accepting that second date with Dennis after that fateful Midwinter dance, Corliss is sure glad she did. “To have the support I have, and to have been able to support him, we are lucky we had the ability to do that,” she concluded. “We have been so fortunate because we have been able to work together as a team.”
DENNIS • Member of Jaycees, president in Alexandria; vice-president in Dilworth. Earned two state presidential medallions and a national award for recruitment. Voted one of Ten Outstanding Young Minnesotans in 1985. • Instrumental in organizing six State fire conventions held in Alexandria. • National Fire Protection Association for 20 years. NFPA “LEARN NOT TO BURN CHAMPION.” • Fire Instruction Association of Minnesota for 20 years. • Minnesota Fire Chiefs Association for 25 years. • Chair for MSFCA Public Education Committee for eight years. • Appointed to Governors Council on Fire Prevention and Control for eight years, vice chair for four years. • Alexandria Area Chamber of Commerce Board for three years, started Business After Hours. • Current Alexandria Fire Museum historian. • Commander for Fallen Firefighters Memorial Association Honor Guard. • Charter member of Alexandria Wrestling Booster Club. • 2016 MSFDA State Fire Prevention Educator of the Year. • Sunday school teacher, mentor for Confirmation at First Lutheran Church.
2018 • Alexandria Alumni Magazine | 13
Bright Stars, Bright Futures! Alumni Marketplace
The Alexandria Area High School DECA Club had 18 students attend the International DECA Conference in Atlanta, GA. The team of Austin Becker and Katie Kent made finals and the Top 10 in their Entrepreneurship Promotion Project.
The AAHS fall musical, Tuck Everlasting, received an Outstanding Overall Performance honor from Hennepin Theatre Trust’s Spotlight Education program.
Meet ten seniors from the Class of 2018 full of promise and hope – ready to make their mark on the world! Jackson Grove • ExCEL Award Recipient • National Honor Society President • Student Council Officer • Academy Ambassador • Carolers • Award winning Choreographer • Choreographed/Played the lead in 2 musicals at AAHS • Directed student-produced play, 99 Balloons • Theatre Officer • Attending Boston Conservatory at Berklee; Musical Theatre
Allison Prestby • 2018 National Merit Scholarship Finalist • Triple “A” Academics, Arts, and Athletics Award Winner • ExCEL Award Recipient • 2017 AP Scholar • Team Captain Girls’ Tennis/Girls’ Golf • Concert Choir/Pop Group/ Carolers/Student Adjudicator • National Honor Society • Student Council President • Attending Belmont University in Nashville, TN; Double major in Music and Design Communications; Presidential Scholarship
CJ Schlosser • Nordic Ski Racing/ Clay Target • Team Captain Clay Target • All-Conference Nordic Ski • All-Conference Math League • Band/Marching Band • National Honor Society • AP Scholar • Academy Ambassador • Attending NDSU – Mechanical Engineering • Recipient of NDSU Presidential Scholarship
14 | Alexandria Public Schools • www.alexandria.k12.mn.us
Thomas Anderson Rachel Meyer • Football/Baseball • Concert Choir/Pop Group/ • Team Captain Baseball Carolers • All-Conference Honor Roll • Concert Choir President • ‘A’ Club President • Student Adjudicator • National Honor Society • Superior ratings at Vocal • Academy Ambassador Solo & Ensemble Contests • Attending U of M-Twin • MSHSL One Act Play Cities; Biochemistry Competition Major/Pre-Med • Fall Musicals/Footloose & Tuck Everlasting • Academy Ambassador • Attending MN State University Moorhead; Music Industry Major
Bright Stars, Bright Futures!
The Alexandria Area High School Knowledge Bowl team placed second at the section meet, earning a trip to state.
The Alexandria Area High School theatre department’s One-Act Play, Gross Indecency: The Three Trials of Oscar Wilde, took first place honors in the Section 8AA contest.
The Alexandria Boys’ Hockey Team clinched the Section 6A title and placed 2nd at the State Tournament.
Class of 2018 Motto The question is “What aren’t we going to do?” Ferris Bueller Allison O’Kane • Girls’ Soccer/Girls’ Hockey/Softball • Team Captain Girls’ Hockey/ Softball • All-Conference (All Sports) • All-State Honorable Mention – Girls’ Hockey • All-Section First Team Softball • 2018 Hobey Baker Character Award – Girls’ Hockey • All-Conference Honor Roll • Student Council Secretary • National Honor Society/ Key Club/SLAM • Attending Concordia College (Moorhead); Nursing/Honors Program; Presidential Scholarship recipient; Women’s Hockey Team
Michael Empting • Football/Basketball/Track • Team Captain Football/Track • Wind Ensemble Band • Triple “A” Academics, Arts, and Athletics Award Nominee • ‘A’ Club President • 2017 Mr. Football Award Finalist • 2017 Minnesota Football All Star Game • National Honor Society/ SLAM/VIBE • Attending U of M-Duluth; Biochemistry; Will Play College Football
Emma Reilly • Student Council Vice President • Co-founder AAHS Democrats/Chair of MN High School Democrats • Dance Team/Team Captain • National Honor Society • Concert Choir/Les Marquise/Student Adjudicator • Attending Randolph Macon College in Ashland, VA; Double major in Political Science and Spanish • Recipient of Presidential Scholarship and Honors Program
Nolan Christenson • Cross Country/ Nordic Ski/Track • Team Captain Cross Country • All-Conference & All-State Academic Cross Country • All-Conference Orchestra • Rainbow Strings • Attending Concordia College (Moorhead); Concordia Cross Country Team/ Orchestra Member • Recipient of Presidential & Music Scholarships; Biology Major
Sidney Enninga • AAHS DECA Co-President/ MN State DECA Officer • International DECA Finalist • Shark Tank Scholarship Recipient • National Honor Society • Academy Ambassador • SLAM • Concert Choir/Carolers • Theatre • Attending U of M-Twin Cities Carlson School of Management; Finance Major
2018 • Alexandria Alumni Magazine | 15
Home Grown Leaders Alumni Jake Odland and Kristen Haabala left Alexandria after high school for post-secondary education and to start their careers.
Alumni Kristen Haabala ‘01 By Jo Colvin Photography by Jennifer Guenther Photography
Kristen Haabala Midwest Natural Medicine Raw Natural Products
Kristen Haabala loved animals when she was growing up in Alexandria. Throughout her grade school years at St. Mary’s and then Washington Elementary School, and through junior high at Discovery Middle School, she often contemplated being a veterinarian. After she graduated in 2001 from Jefferson High School, Haabala, the daughter of Phil and Pat Haabala of Alexandria, left home to attend St. Cloud State University. It was during this time when her career goals shifted from wanting to work with animals to wanting to work with people. Instead of veterinary medicine, she decided to pursue a career as a pharmacist. She earned her undergraduate degree in biomedical science. After an internship at a pharmacy in St. Cloud, she returned to Alexandria when she landed a job as a pharmacy technician at Thrifty White. “At that time I was learning all about medicines, but it was also about that time when there was a lot of research about natural medicine,” she recalled of yet another shift in her future plans. She hadn’t been aware that the study of naturopathic medicine existed, but when completing her undergraduate degree, she studied abroad in Australia for several months. Her roommates during that time were studying naturopathy. “That was the first time my eyes were opened that there was a whole other field of study out there,” she said. “I thought that was so cool that we could heal the body with natural medicine.” Her knowledge of the pharmaceutical world, combined with her love of nature and belief in the body’s ability to heal itself, prompted Haabala to pursue her doctorate in naturopathic medicine. She took off for city life in Portland, Oregon, where she attended the National University of Natural Medicine, the oldest naturopathic college in the US.
16 | May 2018 • www.alexandria.k12.mn.us
Haabala spent four years in Portland, with another Alexandria native right by her side. She was now married to Andrew Wiener, son of Chuck and Barb Wiener of Alexandria. While the couple enjoyed their brief life in the city, they both knew that someday they wanted to return to their roots. Both are very close to their families and knew that when starting a family of their own, they wanted to be near grandmas and grandpas. “Andrew and I wanted to live somewhere else for awhile, but we knew that ultimately we wanted to come back here,” Haabala said. “I think that when you live somewhere else it helps you realize how great it is back home.” As luck would have it, in 2011 a residency under Dr. Kristi Hughes in Alexandria became available. Haabala applied and was accepted. After 10 years’ absence, she came home. She completed the residency and in 2012 and opened her own practice, Midwest Natural Medicine. Here she sees patients with a variety of issues from gastroenterology to allergies to dermatology. “I believe in the world of medicine, and I believe in the natural world, and it is about finding a combination,” she said. “If your body has all the tools it needs it can heal itself.” Haabala has also developed her own line of skin care products called Raw Natural Products, comprised of all natural ingredients, which she manufactures herself. She and her husband have also added another member to their family. They are the proud parents of a 16-month-old boy. “Alexandria is such a great place to come back to, and a great place to raise a family,” she concluded. “We are happy to be home.”
Home Grown Leaders Life lessons and reflections brought them back and they are using their knowledge and talents to make their hometown a better place to live.
Alumni Jake Odland ‘01 By Jo Colvin Photography by Jennifer Guenther Photography
Jake Odland Douglas County Library Director
When Jake Odland was growing up, he wanted to be everything from a psychologist to a diplomat. But hanging out with a family friend for a day set him on his final career path, and brought him back to his hometown of Alexandria. Odland, a 2001 graduate of Jefferson High School (JHS) in Alexandria, loved learning and facts and knowledge. His parents, Mike and Deb Odland of Alexandria, are voracious readers and instilled that love into their son. He read the World Almanac every year from cover to cover. He was in the Knowledge Bowl at JHS, one of his fondest and most influential memories of his high school career.
library and information science. Upon graduation, he was ready to go wherever life took him, and wherever he could start a career. “There are very few positions at a library,” he said. “You are limited by where the need is.” He sent out applications all over the United States to “anywhere that looked promising.” With a rural upbringing in his favor, he ended up not too far from home when he accepted the position of library director in Olivia, MN.
“There was a lot of good will from football,” he recalled. “I felt like I was a member of the team. Everybody counted, everybody belonged, everybody was a part of the success.”
Although he never thought too deeply or intentionally about returning to Alexandria, much to his surprise, three years later that is exactly where he ended up. In May 2013, he started his new position as library director at the Douglas County Library, a place where so many years before he had spent career day at the last minute.
He liked school and all his teachers, many of whom he credits for his continued quest for knowledge. As a teen, he volunteered at the Douglas County Library.
“It’s an easy place to come back to,” he said of being home. “Every day I see people I know from back in the day. It is nice to have that familiarity and that common connection.”
When he was in 9th grade, career day was looming and he had no idea where he was going to go or what he wanted to do. At the last minute he called Trish Conroy, then library director at the Douglas County Library, because she was a friend of his family.
As director of the library, Odland loves being able to help people in their own quest for knowledge by trying to find answers to all their questions.
He was also in jazz band, tennis, orchestra and football.
“Hey Trish, can I hang out with you for a day,” Odland recalled asking her. “Lo and behold, that was the career I ended up picking and the job I ended up taking.” He took a detour first though. After graduating from JHS, he went to Macalester College in St. Paul, where he majored in French. Throughout his junior and senior year there, he worked at the information desk on campus. “I really liked to help people with information,” Odland recalled. “That sparked my interest to go to library school.” He continued his education at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, where he earned a graduate degree in
“There is a lot of freedom to brainstorm new things you can do, and help shape the library to what I think the community would best want,” he added. “It is an active job and it keeps me on my toes.” As to his future plans for remaining in his home town, right now Odland is content to be amongst his family, friends, and to be directing a facility that was so influential in his path to adulthood. “I am really enjoying it here,” he concluded. “I am here until I’m not.” Editor’s note: Shortly before this magazine went to print, Odland announced that he accepted a position as a public services administrator for the library system in San Antonio, Texas. His last day at the Douglas County Library was June 1.
2018 • Alexandria Alumni Magazine | 17
Legacy Business
Pioneering Spirit. Gess Family Legacy. Dr. Lowell Gess, founder of eye clinic
By Rachel Barduson The Gess family pioneering spirit of specialized eye surgery and comprehensive eye care all began with Dr. Lowell and his wife Ruth. Their legacy continues. Dr. Gess performed his first eye surgery at the Douglas County Hospital more than 40 years ago in 1975. His son, Dr. Timothy Gess, joined his dad’s Alexandria practice in 1978. Dr. Deborah Gess Ristvedt joined her father, Tim, in 2011 as a third-generation board certified eye surgeon. “Our family mission statement is “to leave a legacy of a faith-filled life that translates into compassion for people and love for family and friends.” She added, “We strive to integrate our faith with medical advancements made in eye care.”
Dr. Lowell, scrubbing for surgery in Kurabonla at the foot of Mount Bintimana, ca. 1966
Dr. Timothy Gess, 16 year old patient, with the first small incision foldable intraocular lens implant placed in this part of the world... Chicugue, Mozambique.
The family tree under 97-year-old Dr. Lowell boasts a half-dozen ocular specialists. Lowell’s son, Tim, became an ophthalmologist; another son, John, went into optometry. Three grandchildren followed in eye care. Dr. Ristvedt, Jefferson High School (JHS) Class of 1999 and daughter of Tim, specializes in general ophthalmology, presently pioneering a new surgical procedure for glaucoma known as the “Xen”. Dr. Adam Gess, JHS Class of 1999 and son of John, is a cornea specialist in the Twin Cities. Dr. Chris Boehlke, Lowell’s daughter Mary’s son, is also a cornea specialist in North Carolina. Are you keeping up? Fourth generation Gess family members may someday follow as Dr. Ristvedt explained, “My daughter Sophie reminds me of when I was a little girl… when I always asked my dad if I could go to the clinic with him. Sophie wants to go with me and watch. As a little girl, I remember wheeling people up the ramp to grandpa’s small clinic on the property where we now have our Alexandria Eye Clinic, PA. It keeps going full circle.” The circle began when Dr. Lowell Gess felt called to medical mission work at the age of 11. He first became an ordained minister, and he and Ruth went to Nigeria in 1952. They returned to the states to complete a two-year general surgery residency and then departed for Sierra Leone. Education for the siblings; Tim, Mary, Elizabeth, John, Paul and Andrew was a combination of home schooling and Kabala Rupp Memorial Boarding School. In Africa, Lowell asked an ophthalmologist friend to join him. His friend declined, however, did send Lowell a set of eye instruments and a “how to” book. With that, Dr. Gess practiced on pig and cow eyes and was successful with his first three human patients in Sierra Leone. “That opened the flood-gates for the country of 6M that had no ophthalmologist,” Dr. Lowell has said. (Today, there are 5 ophthalmologists for a country of 7 million. By comparison, Minnesota has over 400 ophthalmologists.) Today, where Dr. Gess fell in love with and spent years serving the people, is the Lowell and Ruth Gess Eye Clinic in Freetown, Sierra Leone. His most recent trip to Sierra Leone was in 2017 at the age of 96.
Dr. Deb & her grandpa, Lowell Gess
Dr. Deb & her dad, Tim Gess
Alexandria opened their arms to Ruth and Lowell in 1975. There was no ophthalmologist in Alex at the time and Dr. Lowell saw the need. He started in the old maternity ward of the hospital before opening a small clinic, Gess Eye Clinic, on the very same location Alexandria Eye Clinic, PA now stands. Dr. Tim Gess joined his dad in 1978 as an ophthalmologist and started Alexandria Eye Clinic, PA. Dr. John Gess, Doctor of Optometry, continues Gess Eye Clinic across the street. Amazing pioneers in eye care, the Gess family legacy endures. Dr. Deb, JHS Class of 1999 and her husband, Eric Ristvedt, JHS Class of 2000, own the Alexandria Eye Clinic, PA. In addition to their faith and serving their community, Dr. Ristvedt summed it up well, “I grew up here in Alexandria with this amazing opportunity. The clinic has always been home to me. We are all cheerleaders for each other as we continue to learn and to challenge ourselves in providing the best advancements in eye care possible.”
18 | Alexandria Public Schools • www.alexandria.k12.mn.us
Class Notes The Class Notes section features information provided directly by alumni as well as news gathered from a variety of public sources. –––––––––––––––––
1950’s ––––––––––––––––
The Class of 1956 informal gatherings are the last weekend of July - Friday, July 27, 2018, 4:00 p.m. at the Bug-a-Boo Bay patio; Saturday, July 28, 5:00 p.m. at the Corral in Nelson; and Sunday, July 29 morning at the church of your youth for chance encounters. Questions to Class President Dale Schneiderhan (daleadm@hotmail.com) or database managers John Loken (jcloken59@gmail.com) or Lowell Benson (labenson@q.com). –––––––––––––––––
1960’s ––––––––––––––––
The Jefferson High School Class of 1968 is holding their 50th class reunion at the Alexandria Golf Club on Saturday, June 30, 2018 at 5:00 p.m. Details and registration information is available on the class website: http://jefferson68.com. –––––––––––––––––
1980’s ––––––––––––––––
The Jefferson High School Class of 1988 is holding a 30-year reunion on Saturday, August 11, 2018 at The Eagles Club in Alexandria. The event starts at 6:30 p.m. and Todd Snyder has secured a DJ to spin your favorite 80’s tunes. There will be appetizers and you can also order off the menu. Tables will be reserved for the Class of ‘88 and since The Eagles Club is open to the public, feel free to open the invitation to other Jefferson graduates. Hosted by Karie Ann (Zwieg) Eide and Natalie (Johnson) Annis. For more details, check out the Facebook page, Class of 88 THIRTY Year Get Together. –––––––––––––––––
2000’s –––––––––––––––
Jeremy Dickey (‘04) and Lindsey Norbeck were united in marriage on September 22, 2017 with a ceremony and reception that followed at the Hilton Garden Inn Ballroom in Fargo, ND. Jeremy is a 2004 graduate of Jefferson Senior High School. He graduated from Minnesota State University Moorhead in 2012 with a Master’s Degree in Speech-Language Pathology. Jeremy is a Speech Therapist for West Fargo Public Schools in West Fargo, ND. Lindsey works for Novum Pharmaceutical Research Services in Fargo, ND and is completing her Ph.D. in Cellular and Molecular Biology at North Dakota State University. The couple currently resides in Fargo, ND.
Nathan Nordhausen (‘09) and Kinsey Dokken-McFann (‘11) were united in marriage on September 3, 2017 at Gathered Oaks venue. Kinsey is a 2011 graduate of Jefferson High School. She attended Alexandria Technical & Community College, obtaining an AS Degree in Business Management/Marketing and Sales Management. She is employed with HealthSource Chiropractic. Nathan is a 2009 graduate of Jefferson High School. He graduated from Alexandria Technical & Community College from the welding program. Nathan is employed with Power Machining in Carlos, MN. The newlyweds plan to remain in the Alexandria area.
Kristen Sjostrand (‘11) and Mitchell Johnson announce their engagement and upcoming wedding. Kristen is the daughter of Jeff and Kim Sjostrand of Alexandria. She is a 2011 graduate of Jefferson Senior High School and of the University of North Dakota in 2015 where she obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing. She is currently working as a Registered Nurse in the Critical Care Unit at Essentia Hospital in Fargo, ND. Mitchell currently works as an Associate National Bank Examiner for the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency out of the Minneapolis field office. An October 28, 2018, wedding is planned in Roseville, MN.
Tara Van Hout (‘09) and Daniel Timm announce their engagement and soon-to-be wedding. Tara is the daughter of Larry and Lisa Van Hout of Alexandria. She graduated from Jefferson Senior High School in 2009. She currently works for the State of Minnesota as a Vocational Rehab Counselor. Daniel is an Elementary Physical Education Teacher and Football/Track coach. An August 2018 wedding is planned in the Alexandria area.
Eddie Thorson (‘12) and Miranda Pederson (‘14), both of Alexandria, will be married on June 2, 2018 at First Lutheran Church in Alexandria. A reception and dance will follow at Broadway Ballroom. Eddie works at Alexandria Industries in Alexandria and Miranda works as a Dental Hygienist at Dental Health Services in Glenwood.
Paul Strand (‘10) and Sarah Bitant announce their engagement and upcoming wedding. Paul is the son of John and Darlene Strand of Forada. A June 16, 2018 wedding is planned in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Jenna Wyffels (‘11) and Jack Gasperlin announce their engagement to be married. Jenna is the daughter of Richard and Doreen Wyffels of Alexandria. She is a 2011 graduate of Jefferson Senior High School, a 2014 graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree at the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks, ND, and a 2017 graduate with a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree at the University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences. Jenna is a Pediatric Physical Therapist working in Elk River, MN. Jack is an athletic trainer working in the metro area of MN. An October 2018 wedding is planned in Alexandria, MN.
High school tours offered to community Alexandria Area High School is proud to host tours to community members who may not have had an opportunity to tour the building or hear about the academic programming. General tours are 1.5 hours in length and will be led by student ambassadors. Tours will be offered on the following dates: · Thursday, Sept. 27, 2018, 9:00-10:30 a.m. · Thursday, Nov. 29, 2018, 9:00-10:30 a.m. · Thursday, March 7, 2019, 9:00-10:30 a.m.
Send Class Notes Share your story! We are proud of our alumni and your accomplishments. Please send your class notes including promotions, the birth of a child, move back to the Alexandria Area, and engagement or marriage announcements to jjohnson@alexandria.k12.mn.us with “Class Notes” in the subject line.
2018 • Alexandria Alumni Magazine | 19
Education Foundation News Alumni Marketplace Your Support Impacts Classrooms The Alexandria Education Foundation supports creativity in the classroom through our Teacher Innovation Grants.Since 2009 and through the generosity of our donors, we have awarded nearly $300,000 in grants to teachers in Alexandria Public Schools. This year, AEF awarded $33,083 in Teacher Grants to fund eleven projects that will impact students K-12. AEF Teacher Grants help our teachers bring more creativity, innovation, and inspiration into classrooms.
Congratulations to our 2018-19 Teacher Grant Recipients! Breakout EDU kits School: Voyager Elementary Teacher: Kari Gilbertson Amount Awarded: $625
Makerspace School: Voyager Elementary Teacher: Jake Munsch Amount Awarded: $6,000
Camera for Every Student School: Alexandria Area High School Teacher: Kassandra Gibbons Amount Awarded: $4,332
Ninja Warrior Obstacle Course School: Lincoln Elementary Teacher: Patti Hinrichs Amount Awarded: $4,000
Green Off-Grid Power System for a Tiny House School: Alexandria Area High School Teacher: Todd Dahlseid Amount Awarded: $5,000
Elementary Robotics School: Miltona Magnet Elementary Teacher: Denise Jorud Amount Awarded: $4,150
Learning with Legos School: Voyager Elementary Teachers: Maari Ost & Kayla Bous Amount Awarded: $1,320 Learning Beyond the Screen! School: Miltona Magnet Elementary Teacher: Chad Gilbertson Amount Awarded: $1,288
Seesaw School: Carlos Elementary Teacher: Kristen Schmidt Amount Awarded: $1,268 Snap Circuits in Science School: Woodland Elementary Teacher: Barb Walswick Amount Awarded: $1,500 Sphero EDU School: Discovery Middle School Teacher: Lukas Gotto Amount Awarded: $3,600
Funding for the AEF Teacher Grant Program is made possible by donor contributions to the Alexandria Education Foundation. Donations can be made online at www.alexeducationfoundation.org, or by mail to AEF, P.O. Box 308, Alexandria, MN 56308.
20 | Alexandria Public Schools • www.alexandria.k12.mn.us
Education Foundation News
Save the Dates! June 22, 2018, 7:00 p.m. EdRock – Summer Concert Fundraising Event (21 and older) featuring the Fabulous Armadillos – central Minnesota’s featured band recreating songs from the past just like you remember them. Tickets: $35 in advance – available at Elden’s Fresh Foods; $37 online at www.alexeducationfoundation.org; $40 at the gate. Gates open 6:00 p.m. General seating, first come basis. Bring lawn chairs or blankets. Concert venue: Legacy of the Lakes Gardens, 205 3rd Ave W, Alexandria. In case of inclement weather the event will be held at the Runestone Community Center. Additional parking is at the Fairgrounds and shuttles will transport concert goers. SEPTEMBER 21, 2018, 12:00-1:15 p.m. Broadway Ballroom – Hall of Fame Luncheon honoring the 2018 Inductees- Dr. Heather Stefanski, ‘89; Robert Johnson, ‘65; and Ed Rooney, ‘53. (see article in column to right) SEPTEMBER 21, 2018, Alexandria Homecoming Community Parade, downtown Alexandria, 4:00 p.m.; Pre-game Tailgate Party at AAHS football field following parade; Football Game, Alexandria Cardinals vs. Rocori, 7:00 p.m. kick-off. SEPTEMBER 22, 2018, 6:30-9:30 p.m. Holiday Inn – Jeans & Jewels Fundraiser th This special event is an event to thank all Foundation donors, as well as a fundraiser open to the public. The event features a silent auction and a live auction along with the opportunity to win special event prizes.
2018 Hall of Fame inductees announced The Alexandria Education Foundation is pleased to announce that the following individuals will be inducted into the Alumni Hall of Fame this fall: Dr. Heather Stefanski, Class of ‘89, pediatric oncologist at the University of Minnesota; Robert Johnson, Class of ‘66, retired manager of music organizations at St. Olaf College; Ed Rooney, Class of ‘53, local business owner and entrepreneur. The Alumni Hall of Fame was created in 2007 as a means to honor graduates, or any staff or faculty member who has earned distinction or achievement in their professional field. The Hall of Fame recipients will be inducted at the Hall of Fame luncheon on Friday, September 21, 2018, and they will be invited to be grand marshals during the Homecoming Community Parade later that same day at 4:00 p.m. “There are many unique and outstanding accomplishments by the Hall of Fame recipients in this Hall of Fame class,” said Jay Sieling, Foundation board chair. “We look forward to honoring them this fall and recognizing their successes and contributions.” Full biographical information on the honorees and luncheon event details will be announced in July and available on the Education Foundation’s website at www.alexeducationfoundation.org.
10
Robert Johnson ‘66
Dr. Heather Stefanski ‘89
Ed Rooney ‘53
10
th
Date Night will be this year’s Jeans & Jewels Gala theme and the featured event will be “The Newlywed Game”! This event is a thank you to all foundation contributors and a fundraiser open to the public. The event will be held at the Holiday Inn from 6:30-9:30 p.m. on Saturday, September 22. Jewelry drawings, special event prizes, appetizers and a silent auction make this a fun event you don’t want to miss! For Jeans & Jewels ticket information contact Christine Reilly at (320) 815-5052. 2018 • Alexandria Alumni Magazine | 21
Alumni Marketplace Welcome to the Alumni Marketplace! We greatly appreciate the advertising support of these Alexandria alumni affiliated businesses that help make this publication possible. If you are interested in advertising opportunities in the 2019 issue for your Alexandria alum business, please contact Jill Johnson at jjohnson@alexandria.k12.mn.us.
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22 | Alexandria Public Schools • www.alexandria.k12.mn.us
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2018 • Alexandria Alumni Magazine | 23
HOMECOMING Alexandria Cardinals
2018
Friday, September 21 • 12th Annual Hall of Fame Luncheon, Broadway Ballroom, 12:00 p.m., honoring Robert Johnson, Ed Rooney, and Dr. Heather Stefanski. • Community Parade, downtown Alexandria, 4:00 p.m. • Pre-game Tailgate party at AAHS football field following parade • Football Game, Alexandria Cardinals vs. Rocori, 7:00 p.m. kick-off
September 21-22
Join Us for Homecoming Connections Weekend!
Saturday, September 22 • 10th Annual Jeans & Jewels Gala, Holiday Inn, 6:30-9:30 p.m. This special evening serves as an appreciation event for all Alexandria Education Foundation contributors, an opportunity for potential members to learn more about the Foundation, as well as a fundraiser open to the public.