Reflections 2015

Spring 2015

Franz Hall

History & Memories

page 16

Headmaster’s Message Dear Alumni and Friends of LLA,

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e have all seen malls or city commons encircled by large, spreading oak trees providing shade and a feeling of peace and serenity. Recently we planted 16 oak trees around the grassy field in the middle of the high school campus. Originally we wanted trees that were faster growing. However, as we researched nothing we saw could compare with the stately but slower-growing oak. It dawned on me that each of those stately oaks we see in parks and on campuses were once little seedlings. That is the only way to get a mature tree.

Doug Herrmann, Ed.D I think that is an apt analogy for what happens every year at Loma Linda Academy. Each Headmaster August, parents bring their children to school after tending them from birth. They invite us to join them in creating a community of learning where, along with other students, all can continue to grow to maturity. Of course, graduation from 12th grade does not indicate completion. We continue to watch with pride and interest as our graduates go on to become community and church leaders. Unlike our new oak grove, our alumni forest has a rich variety of trees—teachers, mechanics, engineers, physicians, dentists, lawyers, judges, writers, CEOs, entrepreneurs, and so many more.

Thank you for being a part of our heritage. We love hearing about how things are going for you. We especially enjoy having you visit during homecoming, or just about any other time. We would love to see you.

You will be interested to know that the Loma Linda Children’s Center has become the Loma Linda Academy Children’s Center. That means over a hundred more seedlings are added to our grove. We enjoy what they bring to our community of learning.

Please keep LLA in your prayers. We have over 1,400 young people who range in age from three months to eighteen years. Join us in prayer that each child will grow to be like the tree in Psalms 1, planted by streams of water, yielding fruit in season, and prospering in whatever he or she is called to do.

Sincerely,

Doug Herrmann, Ed.D Headmaster

2 Photo: Scott Guptill

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Contributing photographers Editor Diane Bradley, Staff Desiree Quijano, ’05 Dir. Alumni & Advancement Jason Calvert, Staff Glenn Elssmann, ’81 Jeff Francis Assistant editor Deanna Glindmeyer Scott Guptill Scott Guptill, Staff Dir. Communications Mark Holm, Staff Danelle Taylor Johnston, ’94, Staff Areli Merodio, ’16 Larry Min Victor Wear, ’91

Loma Linda Academy 10656 Anderson Street Loma Linda, CA 92354 909-796-0161 Fax 909-796-8261 www.lla.org

Contributing writers Autumn (Whedbee) Bleier, ’04 Joni Dickerson, Staff Jason Frias, ’14 Annie Golay, ’15 Scott Guptill, Staff Sarah Henderson, Staff Lori Holm, Staff Danelle Taylor Johnston, ’94, Staff Rang Kim, ’15 LLA Mirror Staff Desiree Quijano, ’05, Staff Thomas Rauser, ’14 Dominique Townsend, ’14 Cassy Veluz, ’15

Administrators Doug Herrmann, Headmaster Richard Brooks, ’75, Business Administrator Jason Calvert, Campus Pastor Jack Davis, ’92 Dir. Information Technology Mark Brettnacher, Dir. Plant Service Tony Reyes, Sr. Dir. of Advancement Robert Skoretz, ’86, HS Principal Mark Holm, HS Vice-Principal Jim Weller, JH Principal Elizabeth Muñoz-Beard, JH Vice-Principal John Chen, ES Principal Amy Cornwall, ES Vice-Principal Julie Majestic, CC Principal

Reflections is a publication provided to alumni and friends of Loma Linda Academy, a preschool, elementary, junior high, and high school owned and operated by the Southeastern California Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

Cover: Franz Hall served as the school’s main building for over half a century.

Cover Photo: Danelle Taylor Johnston

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Alumni Homecoming 2014 Honoring the classes of 1964 & 1989

by Dominique Townsend, ’14

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ver its many years of operation, Loma Linda Acad-

emy has impacted and changed countless lives. This is evidenced by the strong number of alumni who return each year for homecoming, sharing stories of their experiences and sometimes helping to fund their school for a new group of students.

This year, the honored classes of 1989 (25 year) and 1964 (50 year) returned to a very different-looking campus on April 12, 2014.

The demolition of Franz Hall seemed to be the main subject of conversation, but it was also obvious that friends were what really made the weekend special for the past graduates.

25 year class of 1989. Craig Connell, ’89, Kate (Brayley) Condon, ’89, Trevor Ingold, ’89, Miriam (Manuel) Domingo, ’89, Ovi Popescu, ’89, Aimmee Rodriguez, ’89.

Before the Sabbath morning services even began, alumni from all classes gathered together in the Chan Auditorium courtyard to check in and greet each other.

Classmates who had not seen each other in 50 years were suddenly reunited.

Laughter and excited conversation filled the open courtyard. Outside the chapel doors, pictures of the honored classes were displayed in golden frames, and many

Wally Amundson, ’64 accepts his 50-year alum medallion.

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Robin (Winter) Baldwin, ’64 checks in at registration.

Photos: Scott Guptill

High school principal, Robert Skoretz, ’86 and vice-principal Mark Holm take roll call. wore ribbons with “50-year Alum” or “25-year Alum” printed on them.

Friends reconnect before the morning service in Chan Auditorium. alumni crowded around these, looking for familiar faces and laughing about how people have changed over the years.

Alumni from these honored classes were also easy to distinguish because they all

The program began around 10:30 a.m., with a song service led by a select group from Loma Linda Academy’s Pro Musica.

Pro Musica in its entirety, led by director Jeremy Morada, later performed several numbers which were enjoyed by all.

The biggest announcements of the morning included the news that the Loma Linda Children’s Center would become a part of the Academy on July 1, 2014 and the retirements of long-time chemistry teacher, Dr. Darryl Benson and well-known Alumni and Advancement Director Mary (Dye) Morgan, ’72.

High school principal, Robert Skoretz, ’86 and vice-principal, Mark Holm, took roll call. The first person to respond to the roll call was a graduate from the class of 1934.

She was also the oldest alumnus in the room at

Chuck McKinstry, ’64 introduces his classmate Tom Dybdahl, ’64 as the speaker.

93 years of age. As the roll continued through the years, more and more people stood, with the honored classes taking up nearly three quarters of the auditorium.

Drawing closer to the ’80s and ’90s, a few current faculty and staff began to stand, which was fun for their students and fellow faculty to see. It was discovered that within the audience, there were families with a tradition, as three generations of LLA graduates stood proudly with their soon-to-be graduates. The roll call ended as the graduating class of 2014 was recognized.

Many alumni traveled from across the U.S. to attend. Stories were shared about the camaraderie everyone remembered from their senior year Lake Havasu trip, the mission trips, and other class events.

Continued

Alumni share stories before morning worship.

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Alumni Homecoming 2014 Continued

Potluck was shared in the High School Gym.

Photos: Scott Guptill

During the LLA Oral History Project video, fond memories and hilarious moments had the audience in stitches, even if the stories were from long before their time. Fred Simental, ’64 remembered visiting the principal’s office on a regular basis. Mary (Dye) Morgan, ’72 said her fondest memory was going campaigning for a local politician with her government class.

One of the most emotional parts of the morning service was the video Alumni continue to exchange stories in front of that detailed the demolition of Franz the High School Gym before potluck.

Hall. Many of the alumni were moved to tears as they saw a part of LLA’s Following worship, everyone gathered history destroyed, but were heartened for lunch in the high school gymnasium. again when they learned of the plans Alumni recounted some of their fondto memorialize the old building. Each est memories of LLA over the potluck. alumnus also received a piece of the Brett Branson, ’74 says he comes to the floorboards, fashioned into a keychain, alumni homecoming every five years to and engraved with the building’s name. see what’s changed and catch up with friends. Gary Wagner, ’64, remembers The homily for the morning was given by being something of a troublemaker and Tom Dybdahl, ’64, and included funny transferring to LLA, where the principal anecdotes about experiences with teachworked with him to reform his ways. Perers, friends, pranks, and class events. His haps the quote of the weekend came from dry humor made the somber moments Wally Amundson, ’64, who commented, a bit lighter. He stated that looking back, “Now that I see my classmates from 50 his predominant thought was that each years ago, I’m starting to believe in evolustudent had value and the teachers really tion.” This, of course, made everyone tried to encourage and nurture that value. within earshot laugh good-naturedly and He left the audience with this thought: retort with joking digs of their own, sumHow can we leave a legacy of Christian ming up the weekend perfectly. characteristics at Loma Linda Academy?

Loma Linda Academy honors the 50-year class of 1964.

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Milestones

Loree K. Sutton, ’77 was named New York City’s next Commissioner of Veterans’ Affairs by Mayor Bill de Blasio in August 2014. Brigadier General Sutton served as the Founding Director of the Defense Centers of Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury (DCoE) from 2007 to 2010 and was the highest ranking psychiatrist in the U.S. Army. Following her retirement in 2010, Sutton co-founded Threshhold GlobalWorks, an organization that promotes social resilience, and served as co-director until her latest appointment.

Sherilyn Peace Garnett, ’87 was one of eight individuals appointed to judgeships in the Los Angeles County Superior Court

by Governor Edmund G. Brown, Jr., in June, 2014. Prior to this appointment, Garnett served as chief of the General Crimes Section at the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Central District of California.

Nate Brandstater, ’87 was appointed president of Kettering College on January

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31, 2014. Brandstater taught chemistry at La Sierra University and served in a number of university administration positions before accepting the position at Kettering College.

Dominique Townsend, ’14 was awarded the prestigious Maxwell Scholarship by Pacific Union College for outstanding academic achievement, exceptional leadership experience, and a commitment to Christian service. The scholarship awards recipients a $15,000 renewable scholarship for all four years they attend PUC. Townsend was one of five freshmen who received the award for the 2014 school year.

Ryan Lauer ’95, Dr. E. Patrick Hoag, father of Michelle Hoag, ’99, and David Ruckle, ’11 were among a group of seven hikers to reach the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania on Wednesday, August 27, 2014. It took the group four days to climb 13,918 feet in elevation to the peak.

Zareh Sarrafian, ’82 was named CEO of Riverside County Regional Medical Center in October, 2014.

Sarrafian was formerly the chief administrative officer at Loma Linda University Medical Center.

Jack Davis, ’92, Danelle Taylor Johnston, ’94 and her husband Flint Johnston completed the LA Marathon on March 15, 2015.

Stacy (Herrmann) Knight, ’02 and her husband Scott welcomed their second daughter, Ellie Faith, on March 10, 2015.

Nick Pope, ’03 and his wife Krista welcomed their first child, Brooklyn Annabelle, on March 2, 2015.

Devan Sandiford, ’03 and his wife Debora welcomed Sydney Elijah Cornel to their family on December 13, 2014.

Older brother, Jalen Adonijah Khalil is three.

Josselyn (Peterson) Christensen, ’04 was named one of the best wedding photographers in Oregon by MODwedding blog.

Steven Brooks, ’06 and Caitlin (Boren) Brooks, ’06 welcomed their first child, Abigail Jordyn, on November 23, 2014.

To read full articles about alumni in action, visit www.lla.org/alumniinaction

Class of 1994 Celebrated 20 Years Friends from the class of 1994 met in Dana Point, CA for their 20-year reunion on August 2, 2014.

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Photos: Flint Johnston

Alumni In Action

Things have changed since high school!

LLA Advancement Advancing the goals of the institution from Preschool to High School

Jewel Speyer Enrollment Counselor Families new to LLA have someone to guide them through the enrollment process.

Whether it’s a parent looking to meet their child’s kindergarten teacher, or a new student who would like to shadow a senior, Jewel will put them in touch with the right people on campus.

David Ibarra Webmaster No institution would be complete without a strong web presence. David helps to ensure our school’s digital face is clean and fresh by keeping our website up to date with the latest information, news, and photos.

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216 New To LLA

$334,972.78 donated

1124 Gifts

177 New To LLA

32 giftsin-kind

748 donors

1255 ENROLLED

average gift size $298.00

2014 75 programs supported

1242 ENROLLED

We thank God and you for your support!

2014 - 2015

Scott Guptill Director of Communications & Marketing If you have seen anything with a Loma Linda Academy logo or seal, you are probably seeing Scott’s work. From our website and promotional media to printed marketing materials and Reflections, Scott works hard to maintain LLA’s excellent, professional presence for prospective students, alumni, donors, and our community.

2013 - 2014

Hannah Young Administrative Assistant Hannah spends half her time coordinating substitute teachers and the other half of her time processing gifts and data for the advancement department and helping out at events. Having served Loma Linda Academy for over 21 years, she will be retiring in June.

She will be greatly missed.

2014 - 2015

Desiree Quijano, ’05 Director of Advancement & Alumni Services Desiree strives to serve her fellow alumni by maintaining alumni records, hosting alumni events, and facilitating alumni gifts. In addition to caring for our alumni, Desiree manages all annual fundraising and advancement events like the golf tournament and community fair.

2013 - 2014

Tony Reyes Senior Director of Advancement In addition to overseeing the advancement department, Tony runs all things campaign.

Meeting with our constituents to secure support for big projects like the high school gym renovation keeps him busy, as does coordinating the school’s gift planning & phone-a-thon.

A Trip to the Big Apple Pro Musica Tour 2014

by Jason Frias, ’14

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n the early morning hours of April 16, 2014 members of Pro Musica, the elite high school choir at Loma Linda Academy, packed their bags. The students were overflowing with excitement for the upcoming tour. Their destination was a first for Pro Musica: the bustling metropolis of New York City.

Much of Pro Musica’s time was spent performing and practicing. The students sang for the Brooklyn Youth Choir, the City Tabernacle Church in Manhattan,

and held an afternoon concert. Pro Musica also spent some time visiting many sites like the Statue of Liberty, Radio City Music Hall, the Empire State Building, and the 9/11 Jeremy Morada Memorial. While in Times Square, Pro Musica sang their “Acapella Fest Medley,” a mixture of popular songs.

At the 9/11 Memorial and the Immigration Building on Ellis Island, they sang a rendition of “The Star Spangled Banner.”

Since this was director Jeremy Morada’s last tour with LLA, the tour was bittersweet. On the last evening, students wrote notes sharing their fondest memories of Morada as their director. Many students wrote to Morada personally expressing their gratitude for his dedication to them and his passion for music. Commenting on trip, Morada said, “The tour definitely brought everyone closer together.”

Class of 2004 Turns 10

by Autumn (Whedbee) Bleier, ’04

The class of 2004 celebrates a 10-year milestone.

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hen a custom invitation arrived in the mail, members of the class of 2004 knew their 10-year reunion had arrived. Some traveled from as far as Washington, D.C. and Texas to the uniquely styled Angelo and Vinci's Ristorante in Fullerton, CA. on the evening of June 28, 2014. Dressed to the nines, any nervousness quickly dissipated as friends reconnected, some of them for the first time face-to-face since graduation.

Several class sponsors also attended and enjoyed the evening. “The ’04 class was my very first senior class to sponsor at LLA. It was wonderful seeing so many people

from this great class. What a beautiful event. It was a creative and fun blend of reminiscing and catching up with the best class in the history of LLA!” smiles (a completely unbiased) vice principal, Mark Holm, whose eldest daughter, Lynsey (Holm) Mize, graduated in 2004.

Classmates had many stories to exchange and many milestones to celebrate. From spouses and children to advanced degrees and exciting careers, the group was busy gabbing before sitting down to enjoy an Italian buffet.

Hosts Autumn (Whedbee) Bleier, ’04 and Doris (Chota) Ontiveros, ’04 led out in LLA trivia games in which winners were entered into opportunity drawings for everything from gift cards to custom gift baskets. Jacob Love, ’04 took home the coveted grand prize of a Williams-

Sonoma ice cream maker. Another game set Lynsey (Holm) Mize, ’04 opposite Chris Pope, ’04—whose mom teaches 5th grade at LLA—in a race to name as many faculty as quickly as possible.

Following cake, the class moved upstairs where they played card games and used the photo booth. Many took advantage of the wide selection of colorful props in their photos, pulling in as many classmates as would fit into the booth.

As the evening wound to a close and friends began to bid affectionate goodbyes, they were given a last delicious take-home treat: beautifully decorated spumoni and tiramisu cake pops made by Samantha (Natividad) Cohen, ’04.

Overall, it was a lovely evening and a chance to reconnect with good friends.

All agreed they would never forget LLA. 9

High School

n o i t 2 a 0 u 1 d 4 a r G 8th Grade

Kindergarten

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The Passing of the Alumni Torch: an interview with Mary (Dye) Morgan, ’72, Advancement & Alumni Director

What brought you back to Loma Linda Academy?

During the summer of 1992 I wanted to go back to work. My daughter Kristi (Morgan) Schnepper, ’98, was in school at LLA and I enjoyed helping in her classroom. I was a room mom and I helped out with Home & School. Since I spent so much time at the elementary, and everyone knew me, I decided to ask if they had any job openings. They did need help in the office, so I began work at the front desk. Over time, I was given more and more responsibilities. Eventually, I became the assistant to the principal and then the director of student services and vice principal of that campus. I wanted to be at the school near my kids.

As an alum, I always loved Loma Linda Academy, and I wanted it to be a good place for my children and other people’s children.

Was there ever a point when you thought you might leave?

I always thought when my son Jonathan, ’03, graduated that I would leave. My kids would both be off at college, and it would be time for another adventure. I was looking for a new way to make a difference, a new challenge. But the thought of leaving the elementary made it very, very difficult. I felt so loved and accepted there. I had to think seriously about what I wanted to do. Although deep down, I knew I couldn’t leave the school yet. I knew I wanted a job that would allow me to continue to work with families.

Why Advancement?

I heard so many stories about kids who couldn’t afford to come to school and I felt there was a need that wasn’t being met because we couldn’t help them. I felt as if I could make a difference for more kids by raising money. At that time a position in advancement was available.

Coming to work in advancement fit everything I wanted to do as the next step in my career and my life at the time.

What was your favorite thing about working in advancement?

I loved the variety. I loved having multiple projects and finding the balance in doing several things at once.

I loved that it was never monotonous, and there was always a new challenge. I loved that I had a supportive administration that gave me the opportunity to be creative, come up with unique ideas, and run with them. They trusted me to do what needed to be done.

What do you miss the most?

I miss the people. The hardest thing about leaving was I had made so many good friends along the way—parents I had worked with on projects, supportive faculty, and caring alumni. I definitely miss the people.

What do you feel was your greatest accomplishment while working at LLA? We worked on many great projects, but I do feel the one that stuck with me was the biology lab and classroom. Every time I go in there, I experience a moment of awe. I see the plaques with the names of parents who sponsored each of those lab stations and I see the list of donor names on the wall, and I think of all these people who made sacrifices to make that happen. It was the first big fundraising project we tackled, and we had such support and success. I’m so proud that I was able to be a part of it.

After many years of service to the school, what would you want to tell your fellow alumni?

Don’t forget your roots. Don’t forget where you came from. LLA was a great stepping-stone for so many of us along the way. Please, don’t forget about that school. Don’t forget about the kids who are currently there and the ones who will be in the future. They will make a difference in the world and they need resources. Give back. Pay it forward.

Mary (Dye) Morgan, ’72, (right) helps to lay the first block of the Biology Building completed in 2007.

What inspires you to give back to LLA? My mom didn’t finish high school until I was in 8th grade. She went to a tiny country school and she got married young. Eventually, she was able to go to adult night school and get her diploma, but she struggled so much to give my siblings and me a Christian education. We all graduated from Loma Linda Academy.

I think that’s why I’ve always been such a passionate advocate for student aid. I know what my mom sacrificed for us. I hope other alumni remember the sacrifices that someone else made for them to go to a private Christian school. I’ll never forget what my mom went through trying to give that to us.

LLA administration thanks Mary for her years of service to Loma Linda Academy, its students, alumni, and community. She has left a legacy of passionate philanthropy and has changed this institution for the better. There is no greater tribute to our school than her selfless dedication to LLA’s mission.

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There’s No Day Like Mr. Day Remembering Gordon Day 1949-2014

by Danelle Taylor Johnston, ’94

Reprinted from: The Mirror | Volume 81 Issue 3 | Jan/Feb 2014

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s students entered the Loma Linda Academy campus on January 30, 2014, the flag flew at half-staff, honoring the memory of our beloved Gordon Day, long-serving junior high principal, who passed away the evening before.

Family, students, and colleagues alike have been devastated by this loss and remember Day for his compassion toward students, his love for his family, and his faith in God. Day was principal of Loma Linda Academy Junior High for almost 14 years, from ’95-’99, and again from ’04-’14. He dedicated his life to education, working at six different Adventist schools, including one in Guam.

Photo: Larry Min

“Mr. Day was dedicated, hard-working, and devoted to the students,” said Carol Brink, junior high U.S. history teacher. That dedication has spanned generations of students. Current high school students who attended the junior high have countless stories of his personal positive impact on their lives.

Gordon Day enjoyed supporting robotics teams during competition.

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When Paul Nawar, ’15 was in eighth grade, his bike—his only mode of transportation—was stolen from campus. When Day heard this, he promised to buy Nawar a new bike. Though Nawar protested, Day insisted and spent two weeks finding the perfect bike model. “The new bike was ten times nicer than the one I had,” said Nawar, who still uses the bike to get to school, “and I plan to keep it forever. Mr. Day always put others before himself. He always did that. He touched everyone in a different way.”

Day definitely believed in a ‘hands-on’ approach, and at lunchtime could often be found playing basketball with his students—once even ripping his pants during the game. This memorable incident only made his sense of humor more evident. Lynne Hattendorf, high school guidance counselor, remembers how “he would drive the limousine golf cart filled with kids all over the campus. The kids had a blast, and their laughter echoed through the halls.”

Even when disciplining students Day had a way of correcting while still encouraging. Pere-re Herd, ’18 said, “Whenever I got in trouble, he was always on my side.”

This quality placed Day in the position to make a difference in pivotal moments and inspired students to do better and work harder.

Day often worked one-on-one with students after school to help boost their academic performance. He would track students’ progress, cheering them along the way. “He really cared about his students. He helped me with my grades and encouraged me to do better,” said Chloe Cuenca, ’16.

Parents recognized how special Day’s influence has been in their children’s lives. Thomas Contreras, parent and LLA security officer, said, “Mr. Day is the most important person I have known. There are not enough words to express what he did for our eighth grader.”

Day lifted up all his colleagues, including Elizabeth Muñoz Beard, junior high vice principal. “I could come to him to talk about anything, and he would listen,” she said.

“I appreciated how he was always looking for ways to help his staff improve. He was very supportive of us in our pursuit for continuing education,” said Julie Khoury, ’95, junior high math and physical science teacher. “Gordon was a genuine individual who loved the school so much.

In the thirteen years that we worked together, I was blessed to have witnessed his love and compassion for the students as well as the staff.”

Day’s workdays extended long after the final bell and into extra-curricular activities, where he is remembered for his behind-the-scenes work in both junior high and high school events. Hannah Young, administrative assistant in the advancement office said, “When Gordon Day’s name is mentioned, the first thing that comes to my mind is how hardworking and helpful he was. He was someone you could always count on.”

“Mr. Day was an outstanding supporter of the music department,” said Gio Santos, band director. “I enjoyed watching him after concerts and during concerts, as I could see how proud he was of the students. He even conducted the Junior High Wind Ensemble during one of our concerts. Mr. Day would stay with me to help clean up the gym after concerts—sometimes for more than two hours.”

goal to help connect students to God, so they could discover the love he had found in Christ. He was crucial to the ongoing success of the Southeastern California Conference Junior/Senior Bible Conference, an event that he was part of for more than two decades. Herrmann said, “When schools took over the planning of the Bible conference in 1992, Gordon quickly became involved in the leadership of the program” when he was principal at Orangewood Adventist Academy.

“Gordon did all the work behind the scenes, leaving the visible leadership to Doug Mace and myself.” Herrmann said.

Day believed in the power of Bible Camp

Gordon Day loved camping and 4-wheeling.

“It was all work; that is how he showed love,” so much he helped start one for junior said Doug Herrmann, LLA headmaster. high students in 2004. “Mr. Day has been a consistent figure in junior high Bible Day has left his imprint on part of the Camp,” said Erick Penick, associate youth physical campus as well. He was instrudirector for Southeastern California mental in the development and construcConference. tion and planning of the junior high gym, dedicated on August 27, 2010, and “Gordon was passionate about Bible the junior high and high school library, Camp because it was such a powerful which opened November 4, 2013. time for kids to commit to Jesus Christ. It was the focus of everything he wanted in Day’s compassionate character was most education,” Herrmann said. evident in his love of his family. Gordon Day was married to his beloved wife As Contreras said, “There is no day like Patty, LLA high school registrar, for Mr. Day.” twenty years. “He always used to come in and say, ‘Hello, Mrs. Day!’ and she used Day is deeply missed. His positive influto whisper back, ‘Hello, Mr. Day.’ He used ence on his students, colleagues, and to come in and say the sweetest things to family is immeasurable. He leaves behind her, constantly calling her beautiful. He many loved ones: his wife Patty, daughwas just such a sweet and kind person,” ters Gina Johnson, Robyn Juarez, grandremembers Vanessa Quintana, former children Brooke Johnson, Gavin Johnson, K-12 receptionist.

Isabella Vasquez, father Clyde Day, and his siblings, Julie Day, Andy Day and wife Day’s loving nature with his family is also Timbre, and Jeff Day. seen in his love of Christ. It was Day’s 13

5 Things We Learned from Dr. Benson Honoring 20 years of service “

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ix your life!” Hundreds of Loma Linda Academy students and alumni will recall this was Dr. Darryl Benson’s response to any and almost all excuses for late homework, tardiness to class, reasons for missing lab, and really any other ‘woe-is-me’ tales. While this reply may sound harsh to some, it is the first of five key life lessons Benson imparted to nearly every student that sat in his classroom.

by Desiree Quijano, ’05

“I have noticed there is learning that occurs which a student cannot demonstrate on a machine-graded test,” Benson replied. He often expressed his belief that students should have both the opportunity and the right to not only exhibit what they have learned but also take pride in it.

Lesson Three: Simple kindness. When a student was diagnosed with cancer midway through the semester and began to

found themselves at odds with the world and in need of a safe and secure place to go. Though most students were unaware of this, he often told them, “Make the world a better place while you can, otherwise it certainly will become one when you leave it.”

These five lessons, in addition to the fact that Dr. Benson was an exceptional educator, are part of the 20-year legacy he leaves at Loma Linda Academy. Numerous alumni have returned to campus to express their gratitude to him for preparing them for their fields of study or work. Some have brought their spouses or children to meet him. Others simply want to catch up, but Jeremy Quijano, ’14 said it best: “We know he really cares, we know he’s always honest, and we’re sure he is definitely maybe only 80 percent crazy. But we all know he is more than just a little bit brilliant.”

“Fix your life!”

Lesson One: Fix your life.

Benson was adamant that his students not play the victim. “If you don’t fix your life, who is going to do it for you?” he asked. “Other teachers won’t.

Your parents might try, but it’s up to you because it’s your life.” This mind-set prompted students to plan ahead, prioritize, solve problems, and take responsibility for themselves.

Lesson Two: Take time. Colleague and high school technology teacher, Jay Linthicum was baffled when he found Benson hand-grading a large pile of semester tests at lunch. “Why don’t you design tests that can be machine graded?”

Linthicum asked.

miss classes to receive treatment, Benson quietly responded in a way others did not quickly forget. “Dr. B put flowers on her desk,” an alumnus remembers.

“There were flowers on her desk every day we had class and she couldn’t be there. It was a reminder to us all that someone is missing; someone is supposed to be here.”

Lesson Four: Pay Attention. Benson shared many memorable moments with his students. From hours writing and rehearsing for the next Loma Linda Academy Musical Theatre Organization (LLAMUTO) performance, to taking hundreds of photos at school events, or keeping his classes laughing with his latest pun, his deep, personal commitment to his students was clearly evident in his honest interest in their lives.

Lesson Five: Make it better.

Through the years, Benson and his wife, Audrey, opened their home to several teenagers who

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Photo: Scott Guptill

Mission Trip Costa Rica A Trip With A Mission 2014

by Cassy Veluz, ’15

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There were many jobs to be done—painting the inside and the outside of the church, tiling the floors, clearing the front yard of all foliage, and painting the outside walls of the bathroom.

Students reached new heights on the first day— literally. There were painting jobs to be done and they required tall ladders. A number of students also learned how to tile floor for the first time.

The local head deacon commented that he had never seen such a group of kids work so efficiently. Each day the group exceeded expectations on the amount of work accomplished. As Brandon Shin, ’16, stated, “Hard work really does pay off; it’s not just some cliché.”

Photo: Jason Calvert

n the morning of July 7, 2014, twenty-seven students and three sponsors arrived in Alajuela, Costa Rica. Their mission was to finish construction on a local church in Alajuela in less than ten days. For some students this was their first mission trip experience. The group was privileged to stay on the Central American Adventist University (Unadeca) campus. Unadeca is the only Seventh-day Adventist university in Central America.

Students reflect on the day’s work while they enjoy dinner together.

On Sabbath, the church members and the student missionaries worshiped together inside the church.

A downpour of heavy rain began to fall and the students instantly recognized the fruits of their labor.

They gave thanks to God for a shelter where they could worship.

Photo: Jason Calvert

During their free time, the group visited many sites around Costa Rica; from the active Poás Volcano to Jaco Beach on the west coast. As they journeyed throughout the country, they saw a number of wild animals including sloths,

armadillo, and crocodiles. Other adventures included zip-lining and whitewater rafting in the tropical forests of Tacacori.

The mission trip was filled with new learning opportunities for students. For Richard Ong, ’15, the trip helped him appreciate things he previously took for granted, “Going to a big church, I did not appreciate the infrastructure I walk through, but because of Costa Rica, it made me realize how fortunate I am.”

God shone through in various ways for the group: from the small thank-you gestures of the locals to the beautiful sites in Costa Rica. The students experienced first-hand the value in serving others and recognizing what bountiful blessings surround them.

Students work together to lay floor tile at the church.

15

Farewell Franz Hall

Photo: Scott Guptill

by Desiree Quijano, ’05 and Danelle Taylor Johnston, ’94

D

emolition of Loma Linda Academy’s iconic Franz Hall was completed in January of 2014. Erected in the 1930s, the building served as the face of the school for decades, and the decision to demolish was met with sadness from current students, alumni, faculty, and the surrounding community. Franz Hall, however, was no stranger to destruction.

Fire and Flood Around midnight on March 17, 1947, a fire of debatable origin claimed a large portion of what was known as Loma Linda Academy’s main building. “The whole front wing of the Loma Linda Academy building was left in charred ruins, and the connection section of the new part of the building, although left standing, was severely damaged. The loss was estimated to be between $90,000 and $100,000,” reports the March 1947 issue of the Mirror. Though repairs on the existing foundation were completed two years later, evidence of the fire remains to this day with char marks along the edges of early historical LLA photos that were damaged in the fire.

Time Line 16

The building again suffered severe damage in February 1969, this time from water. A flood caused extensive damage to LLA’s campus, flooding the basement of the main building with mud and debris.

A letter from the Southeastern California Conference office dated March 31, 1969, estimated the damage at $100,000.

Howard Franz In the fall of 1972, a young teacher by the name of Howard Franz joined the high school faculty. Franz had a palpable passion for teaching made evident in stirring discussions with his students in government and history classes. He also had a quiet sense of humor. Karen Savage McCulloch, ’77 was often late to her fifth period world history class and recalls a particular afternoon when Scott Wareham, ’77 had smeared mustard on the classroom doorknob. “I could tell by Scotty’s reaction he was the guilty one and proceeded to chase him around the room,” McCulloch laughs. “Mr. Franz was just sitting on his desk enjoying the whole scene.”

Road flare similar to the one rumored to have started the fire.

The original main building was erected in the 1930s.

1930s

In February 1969 a flood caused extensive damage to the campus.

1947 Fire

1969

Flood

Franz immersed himself in all aspects of campus life—sports, clubs, mission trips, and Student Association—but he particularly enjoyed vespers. “It was Mr. Franz who taught me how to roast corn at beach vespers. He would say it was best to dip the whole crate in the ocean to presalt the corn and slow the cooking,” said English teacher Andy Sandiford.

For fourteen years he selflessly gave his heart to his students, but in 1986 Franz was diagnosed with Hodgkins lymphoma. Despite his illness, Franz continued to teach. When he was too ill to drive, he took the bus to work. He refused to miss school, not wanting his classes to have a substitute teacher. He was completely devoted to his students and vowed to stay at his post of duty until the end.

On December 4, 1986, Franz began his workday with faculty worship at 7:30 a.m. as usual. Later, in class, his students surprised him with a Christmas tree.

He wrote a note to include in the next morning’s announcements: “Thanks so much for the great surprise. Beautiful Christmas tree from a beautiful class that is loved so much.” That evening Franz felt so weak, a colleague drove him home.

His condition quickly worsened and he was rushed to the hospital where he died three days later.

A fresh coat of paint highlighted the columns of Franz Hall’s architecture.

Dedication Loma Linda Academy’s main building was the focal point on campus, housing offices, classrooms, the library, and the chapel. On April 2, 1988, the building was dedicated to and named for the school’s beloved Franz. Bonnie Schoberth, administrative secretary, remembers “standing in front of Franz Hall the day it was dedicated to Howard Franz. How sad and happy it was at the same time to honor such a special teacher, person, and friend.”

Franz Legends Over the years, Franz Hall has held the offices of many teachers and administrators. One special person who called Franz Hall home was Harley Boehm, who worked at LLA for 42 years from 1963 to 2005. His kindness is etched in the memories of the alumni, faculty, and staff who worked beside him. Lynne Hattendorf,

The epitaph reads: “For fourteen years a teacher of unusual dedication at Loma Linda Academy, Howard Franz loved his students, and they were devoted to him.

Despite pain, he stayed determinedly in his classroom until three days before his death. His prayers in class are remembered by many, always courageous, cheerful, and optimistic. He was to his students

In the fall of 1972, a young teacher by the name of Howard Franz joined the high school faculty.

1970s

and colleagues a dear friend and a hero among Christian educators.”

Franz Hall circa 1960 In April 1988, the LLA administration building was dedicated to Howard Franz.

Howard Franz

1988

Dedication 17

Franz Hall Continued school counselor, remembers that, “Mr. Boehm would bring my daughter Lauren, ’10, a postcard with a classic painting on it every day to faculty worship, which was located in the basement of Franz Hall.”

Boehm’s office was located near the library where Pam Dietrich, after teaching English for 26 years, became the librarian in 2002. “Harley Boehm was there before I got to school and after I left at night. He remembered every student he ever had contact with and would remember their names years later. It was a unique gift of his. People loved coming back and talking to him. He was the school’s memory.

He was the most marvelous person,” Dietrich said.

Wanting to create a friendly study space in the library, Dietrich added artwork on the walls, a display case for student projects, and took away a lot of the furniture to open up the library. “I wanted to have less furniture for it to be more open and feel less constrictive and more useful,” she said. Dietrich also added the library’s first reading area for students to enjoy, with upholstered chairs and book-shaped side tables.

Transition In October of 2011, Loma Linda Academy opened the new 40,000 square-foot Student Services Building and closed a majority of Franz Hall. Classrooms, offices, and administration moved to the new building, but students continued to use the library as a new space was still being prepared.

Franz Hall Library Many took photos in the unique space, knowing they would be the Lori Walls Langford ’93, agreed, “Franz last classes to use building.

Hall will always be more to me than just a building; it will be the place where great Over the summer of 2013, the library was memories were made.” moved to West Hall, taking the classroom space formerly occupied by Spanish The End of an Era teachers Sergio Uribe and Elba Vega, Over time, Franz Hall required more world history teacher Brandon Herand more repairs. The age of the foundarmann, ’01, economics teacher Bettesue tion alone was of growing concern and Constanzo, and math teacher Theresa administration began to discuss longPhillips, ’85. Some classes moved into the term plans for Franz Hall. Surveyors new building while others were relocated came to assess the building and proposed to North Hall. This left Franz Hall comseveral potential solutions to address pletely empty, and several people took current problems and bring the building this last opportunity to take pictures of into code. In the end, the costs to upkeep the building they had known so well.

Franz Hall while retrofitting or renovating would be greater than the cost of an For many, it was an emotional farewell. entirely new building. “[It’s] a wonderful old building. It’s almost like an old pair of gloves,” said forAfter much discussion, administration mer teacher, Lionel Ballou. “…it’s like an made the difficult decision to demolish old friend. I am sad to see it go.” Alumna Franz Hall. Headmaster Doug Herrmann

2013 18

Last Chapel

Photos: Scott Guptill

The Junior High held the last chapel program in the Franz Hall Auditorium before it was demolished in 2013.

2013 Demolition

Photo: Danelle Taylor Johnston

along with a card noting the building’s historical significance and a marble to commemorate the days when, during assembly, rowdy students would roll marbles down the chapel’s wood floor.

2013—Students take a final group photo before the demolition of Franz Hall begins. made the initial announcement in a campus-wide e-mail to faculty and staff on April 19, 2013. Demolition began eight months later.

Photo: Scott Guptill

A Piece of History On a sunny day in December, workers began to strategically remove roofing tiles, ceiling panels, framing, and bricks.

Several days later, an excavator was brought on site to take down the exterior walls and demolish the basement, leaving nothing but rubble in its wake. As crews began to clear away debris, Franz Hall’s front steps were the only thing

that remained and a painful reminder of the building that was once the heart of campus.

Not all was lost, however. Hundreds of boards of wood were salvaged during the demolition process and bundles from the chapel and stage were set aside for a very specific purpose. These boards were cut into small pieces that were fashioned into keychains and engraved with “Loma Linda Academy Franz Hall – 2014.” The keychains were then given as gifts to alumni at Alumni Homecoming in April, 2014, packaged in a burgundy gift bag

In Loving Memory New grass was planted where Franz Hall once stood, creating a green space for current students. In the fall, construction began on the Franz Memorial on the Student Services Building. The memorial’s design includes the clock, original lettering, and memorial plaque from the building fixed within a familiar façade. The finished piece was unveiled and dedicated during Alumni Homecoming 2015.

Loma Linda Academy was blessed to have had a building like Franz Hall.

It was a place in which many learned, formed friendships, and gathered. There have been millions of moments captured within those walls. There has been so much life in that place. It withstood fire and flood, was our campus’ anchor for over 90 years, and saw over 7,000 students walk its halls. Though it is indeed an emotional farewell, Franz Hall served Loma Linda Academy well until the very end.

In 2014, a new beginning was marked with rolls of fresh sod.

Now, students enjoy noon-time activities in the field where Franz Hall once stood.

2014 Franz Field

2015 Memorial 19

New Staff 2014-2015 Ashley Mayberry (Returning)

Czarina Francisco

Favorite cartoon character?

Mater (from Disney’s Cars)

Secret super power?

Supersonic hearing.

Transitional Kindergarten Teacher

Elementary Choir Teacher

Andrew Jones

6th Grade Teacher

Personal theme song?

Everything is Awesome

Jankel Coronado High School Chemistry Teacher

Strangest summer job ever?

Radio Show Host

Kristian Leukert

Junior High & High School Choirs Director

Who would play you in your life movie?

Mr. Bean

Larry Kidder

Assistant Music Director, Symphony Orchestra

Weirdest food eaten?

Fungi pizza (in Venice)

Jim Weller

Andrea Gilkey

K-12 Receptionist

Favorite children’s book?

The Secret Garden (by Frances Hodgson Burnett)

Ruth Mendoza Junior High Office Assistant

20

Current pets: 2 dogs, 2 rabbits, 1 parrot, and 1 turtle

Junior High Principal

Bucket List destination?

Orchid Island

! e m o c l e W

Senior Government Trip Loma Linda Academy Goes to Washington

by Annie Golay, ’15

G

overnment class came to life when a group of 28 seniors embarked on an 11 day adventure to 3 states: Pennsylvania, New York, and Maryland.

Under the guidance of government teacher and trip organizer, Bettesue Constanzo, the students visited 8 museums, 5 memorials, the United Nations, the Supreme Court, and many other landmarks. The students took advantage of this opportunity to learn more about the core of the American judicial system and also to build friendships among one another.

Students shared that they were excited to experience the challenge of learning on the road versus in a normal classroom. Michelle Wilbourn, ’15 said of the experience, “It really is so much better because everything is visual and so easy to learn, especially when you are there.” Cassy Veluz, ’15 added, “Visiting provides a hands-on experience with what people have done to build this nation instead of just reading it from a textbook. Going there really gives you a different perspective.”

Probably the highlight outside of all that was learned came when the students got the chance to watch the Broadway musical, Les Misérables. Another favorite

No government trip is complete without a visit to the Liberty Bell. memory of the trip was the Supreme Court visit. In order to secure seats, the group left their hotel at 4:30 a.m. The students expressed afterwards that the experience was well worth the early start.

Students marveled at how the United States democratic system has inspired countless others around the world to work toward establishing justice in their own countries. The government trip provided students with priceless memories: from visiting the United Nations to walking up the marble steps of the Supreme Court building.

Scholarships Clark Davis Scholarship Award 2014 During Loma Linda Academy’s annual Awards Chapel on May 9, 2014, Shasta Erickson, ’15 and Valerie Valles, ’14 Shasta Erickson, ’15 were awarded the Clark Davis & Sylvia Clark Davis Scholarship for Excellence in Leadership for their exemplary leadership and passion for social justice.

This scholarship was established in 2009 by the class of 1984 for their 25th reunion in memory of their senior class president, Clark Davis, ’84. Sylvia Clark Davis presented the award named for her son.

Photos: Scott Guptill

Valeria Valles, ’14 & Sylvia Clark Davis

Harold Limon-Guerrero, ’15 with Pam Feldkamp & Maggie Cotton

Feldkamp/Jacobson Scholarship Award 2014 The Feldkamp/Jacobson Scholarship was presented to Harold Limon-Guerrero, ’15 and Amber Quijano, ’15 in recognition for their personal integrity and compassion for others.

The Loma Linda Academy Class of 1990 established the Feldkamp/Jacobson Memorial Scholarship in 2010 in memory of Vanessa Feldkamp Pullen ’89, Erin Jacobson ’91, and Amy Feldkamp Jacobson ’93. Pam Feldkamp and Maggie Cotton, ’90, presented the award on behalf of their family.

Amber Quijano, ’15 with Pam Feldkamp & Maggie Cotton

National Merit Class of 2014 Finalist: Thomas Rauser, ’14 Commended: Kristina Hall, ’14, Andrew Hamerly, ’14, Victoria Hiatt, ’14, Alyssa Pappas, ’14, Andrew Vassantachart, ’14, Beau Young, ’14 National Hispanic Recognition Program Scholar: Miranda Roberts, ’14 National Achievement Referred to Colleges: Dominique Townsend, ’14 21

Band Tour 2013 Washington, D.C.

by Thomas Rauser, ’14

O

A highlight for many of the students was being able to participate in a master class led by the U.S. Army Band. The students were able to walk through the “President’s own” U.S. Marine Band’s practice facility. Another favorite memory was their performance at the U.S. Navy Memorial.

Photo: Victor Wear, ’91

ne of the most exciting opportunities for many students at Loma Linda Academy is the chance to learn and perform music. Loma Linda Academy’s premier band group, the LLA Wind Symphony, performs regularly in churches and even had the opportunity to play in the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles. Each year, the LLA Wind Symphony also travels on a tour.

In 2013, that tour took them to Washington, D.C. They performed four free public concerts, the first being at the General Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. The tour was not just about playing music. Aside from their performances, there was much educational time spent visiting the famous D.C. landmarks, such as the Lincoln Memorial and the Smithsonian museums.

The Wind Symphony performed at the U.S. Navy Memorial.

After the LLA Wind Symphony performed “Eternal Father, Strong to Save,” Colonel L. Bryan Shelburne, the former director of the U.S. Army Band, took the baton. He conducted the students as they played, “The Washington Post March.” Several people came out of the office buildings nearby because, as they told students, they thought a real military band was playing!

Shop & Support LLA 1. Box Tops 4 Education:

Find Box Tops on hundreds of products. Clip Box Tops from each package. Send the Box Tops to Loma Linda Academy. Box Tops are each worth 10¢.

2. Scrips:

Scrips Gift Cards help raise money for Loma Linda Academy. They are available for purchase at the Elementary Office or Business Office. When you purchase a gift card, a percentage is given to Loma Linda Academy.

3. Target Red:

Use your Target REDcard for all your shopping needs and support Loma Linda Academy. Get 5% off every time you use your REDcard and Target will donate up to 1% of your total purchase to LLA. Funds received through this program go directly to student aid.

4. For other ways to support

Visit www.lla.org/gift to learn how you can support Christian education at Loma Linda Academy.

22

Another successful year

Family Volunteer Night Photo: Scott Guptill

by Kimberly Thomas & Alane Hegstad

L

oma Linda Academy’s 4th annual Family Volunteer Night welcomed thousands of students, faculty, parents, alumni, and local residents into the high school gym for an evening of community service. Ten stations were set up for projects supporting a cause. With the help of many hands we were able to accomplish:

• 3,000 hygiene packs filled with toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo, and soap • • • • • • • • •

for the homeless 300 first aid kits for Helping Hands Pantry 400 soup mix bags filled for Helping Hands Pantry 200 delivery bags decorated for Meals on Wheels Volunteers braid paracord survival bra celets to include 100 cards for seniors and ill individuals isolated from social support through in Ope rati on Gra titu de care pac kag es for the military.

Meals on Wheels 85 fleece blankets for the homeless and needy families with children through UReach 1,270 cat/dog toys, bandanas, and blankets for the Humane Society of San Bernardino Valley 2,000 cat/dog food bags packed for the homeless and low-income pet owners through Paws to Feed 330 paracord bracelets and 300 care packages for the military through Operation Gratitude 12 people donated their cut hair to Locks of Love through Bello Cristo Salon

Photo: Glenn Elssmann ’81

High School Robotics Club R

obotics at LLA began at the elementary. Student teams built robots to compete in tournaments with other schools. Soon the junior high and high school followed suit with clubs of their own.

The team began with 14 students with very few having any prior knowledge of robotics. The students had to learn how to communicate as a team as they worked to build their robot.

Under the guidance of physics teacher Heidi Elssmann, a robotics team was established at the high school in 2014, operating like many on-campus clubs.

When the first tournament came, the robotics team robot, named Sherman, was not completely ready. As the robot moved, screws and bolts would fall out and the team was puzzled as to how to better fasten the screws. Sacramento Adventist Academy’s team came over and proposed a solution: Loctite super glue. The Sacramento team even lent their Loctite.

This encouragement motivated members to stay up all night repairing Sherman. It was a unique opportunity to bond as a team. As a result of their

by Rang Kim, ’15

efforts, LLA was awarded second place in the tournament.

More important than the results were the life lessons. Rang Kim, ’15, said this of her experience: “Robotics Club gave me the opportunity to be limitlessly creative and considerate of others. It has helped students to expand their thoughts and challenge themselves. Before joining the Robotics Club, I had never thought of myself as being an engineer. Now, I am thinking of majoring in engineering.”

By the end of the year, the Robotics Club had competed in two more tournaments and expanded to 21 members. The students will always have memories of Robotics Club, the new friendships built, and the lessons learned. They are no longer afraid to try something new. They learned to believe in their efforts.

The Robotics Club test their robot before the tournament.

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Loma Linda Academy Wind Symphony

by Scott Guptill

Walt Disney Concert Hall T

he Loma Linda Academy Wind Symphony under the direction of Giovanni Santos had the rare opportunity to perform at the world-renowned Walt Disney Concert Hall on June 18, 2014. The concert took place within the state-of-the-art hall that was specifically designed for musical performance, and is home to the Los Angeles Philharmonic.

Sixty-six students from grades 7-12 were invited to perform as part of the World

Projects, Los Angeles International Music Festival. Groups from Shanghai, Oregon, and Northern California also participated in the music festival.

“Having the opportunity to play at the Walt Disney Concert Hall is truly a oncein-a-lifetime experience that I will never forget,” said LLA percussionist, Tyler Corrales, ’16. “The amazing acoustics, and the sheer beauty of the building make it an impressive place.”

The LLA Wind Symphony performed an arrangement of “Allegro Barbaro” by Bela Bartok and “Angels in the Architecture” by Frank Ticheli. Students were delighted by the privilege of working directly with Ticheli during dress rehearsal as he gave his personal notes about the performance of his piece.

This opportunity to perform at the Walt Disney Concert Hall began to take shape earlier in the year when a World Projects consultant heard a recording of the LLA Wind Symphony on YouTube.

The consultant contacted Santos and invited the group to perform at a music festival in Washington, DC while the group was on performance tour in the area. Unfortunately, Santos had to decline the invitation due to the group’s full tour schedule. Two weeks later, Santos received a second invitation to perform, this time at the Walt Disney Concert Hall.

“Having performed there previously, I had a great talk with my students about this honor,” said Santos. “We all knew this performance would be one of the great musical thrills of our lives. The kids have worked really hard and love to explore new and challenging music.”

The performance included the magnificent concert hall organ for “Angels in the Architecture,” masterfully played by Dr. Kimo Smith.

“Having the opportunity to play at the Walt Disney Concert Hall is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience that I will never forget.”

–Tyler Corrales, ’16 24 Photo: Scott Guptill

“We all knew this performance would be one of the great musical thrills of our lives. The kids have worked really hard and love to explore new and challenging music.”

–Giovanni Santos

25 Photo: Jeff Francis

Roadrunner Golf Classic Supporting Student Aid at Loma Linda Academy

by Desiree Quijano, ’05

L

oma Linda Academy hosted its 15th annual Golf Tournament on Sunday, September 21, 2014, at the Morongo Golf Club at Tukwet Canyon. Over 100 players spent a day on the course to raise money for Loma Linda Academy’s Student Aid fund which provides struggling families with tuition support.

“We would like to extend a very special thank you to our loyal sponsors, especially our title sponsor, Arrowhead Orthopaedics,” said headmaster Doug Herrmann. “Our students continue to benefit from this generosity. We are also blessed to have a team of dedicated volunteers, without whom, this event would not be possible.”

Golfers aim for a hole-in-one to win a new car.

3rd

2nd

Photos: Scott Guptill

After a morning on the course, Bill Arnold emceed the lunchtime program, awarding prizes for the opportunity drawing. Overall, it was another in a long line of successful tournaments which together have raised well over $400,000 for our school.

Monica Loera wins a gift basket in the opportunity drawing.

1st

www.lla.org/golf 26

ear!

Join us next y

E T A D E H T E V A S 15 , 20

September 20

15th Annual

Roadrunner Golf Classic Title Sponsor

Platinum Corporate Sponsors

Bronze Sponsors Alarmco Bank of America/Merril Lynch Brian R. Bloom Architect House of Portraits LLU Radiation Medicine LLU School of Behavioral Health LLU School of Dentistry LLUH Highland Springs Medical Plaza Pacific Union College Pass Physical Therapy Southeastern California Conference Walsworth Publishing

TEE Sponsors Gold Sponsors

Aesthetic Skin & Laser Medical Center Best Golf Carts, Inc. Carpets By Duane, Inc. Drayson Center Harvey Zalsman Jr. DDS, MD Jackie’s Custom Draperies La Loma Federal Credit Union La Sierra University Larry Jacinto Construction LLU Printing Services LLU School of Nursing Loma Linda Children’s Dental Group New Seed Landscape Thompson Engineering

Hole-in-one Sponsors Walter’s Automotive Best Golf Carts, Inc. Morongo Golf Club of Tukwet Canyon, Home of the Southern California PGA

27

Culinary Arts Integration: Activities Students Can Sink Their Teeth Into

by Sarah Henderson and Lori Holm

Students’ long-term memory of content is strengthened by arts integration along with their joy and appreciation for the art itself.

E

nglish teacher Sarah Henderson and Culinary Arts teacher Lori Holm have been working together to create a more integrative learning environment on the high school campus. While arts integration is not a new concept, Henderson and Holm found very few resources for culinary arts integration. In October 2014, they co-authored the following article offering their own projects as ideas to other educators: Encouraged by recent educational research, more and more teachers are finding ways to integrate the arts into their curriculum. While the advantages to this approach have been widely documented, culinary arts integration is commonly neglected in the discussion. We argue that the incorporation of culinary arts as a project-based learning activity is an excellent way to increase student knowledge and engagement.

With culinary arts integration, an arts activity is used to enhance student content knowledge. Arts integration is an active-learner process which can be easily modified to fit various disciplines, grade levels, and student skill levels.

28

So, what is culinary arts integration?

It is an approach that requires student research, creativity, and execution. It is a project-based activity in which the learning is in the students’ hands. These activities are also ripe (pun intended) for cross-curricular application and public speaking opportunities as students defend their creations to the class in a persuasive speech.

Unfortunately, outside of culinary classes and the occasional foreign language class, food is rarely utilized as an arts activity. There are understandable, valid concerns regarding culinary arts integration.

Food safety issues, costs, and allergies are just a

The enhanced experience of culinary arts incorporation promotes stronger, longterm learning of the associated content.

For the full article and sample projects Henderson and Holm have done at Loma Linda Academy, visit: http://www.edutopia.org/blog/ culinary-arts-integration-pbl-foodsarah-henderson-lori-holm Following the success of this article, Holm and Henderson were invited to be guests on BlogTalkRadio’s “Feast On This”. Their work continues to gain interest and they are scheduled to speak at several conferences this year.

Photos: Scott Guptill

Lori Holm explains the many uses of fresh herbs.

While activities like eating pie on Pi Day or learning to count with M&Ms can certainly be memorable, they are not technically culinary arts integration activities because the art here does not instigate effort, elaboration, and study on the part of the student. Instead, these activities are culinary visual aids, enjoyable and delicious in their own right.

few potential negatives. To counteract these negatives, we recommend proactive communication and group tasks. Having a group of students work together can decrease individual costs, and communicating ingredients during pre-meal presentations can help students avoid allergic reactions. Always check with your district or state regarding food safety laws and restrictions.

Students critique each others work.

Photo: Deanna Glindmeyer

Friends Next Door Friends Next Door Bible Club Presents Children’s Programs by Scott Guptill Students prepare a skit for children at the Colton SDA Church.

S

tudents from Loma Linda Academy have developed a ministry club with the help of high school Bible teacher, Gene Oswald and the Campus Ministries Department. The club’s goal is to minister to children at area churches.

The club is comprised of 20 students who call themselves the Friends Next Door Bible Club (FNDBC). The club prepares a monthly Sabbath afternoon program including a skit, games, crafts, and some-

times a puppet skit for children. “We break the students into groups so there is a team that handles crafts, snacks, games, music, skits, and puppets. Each of these groups will work on creating something that will accent the story and principle being taught,” says Oswald.

Loma Linda Academy seniors Elizabeth, ’15 and Jessica Bates, ’15 are the sister team that has led the group. “I think my favorite part are the skits,” says Elizabeth.

“We have a great group that can ‘improv’ when needed.” “Mr. Oswald is so enthusiastic about every aspect of the club,” says Jessica, “He contacts and arranges the program with the churches, which is the hardest part.”

Club members plan to compile their programs into book form so others will be able to use these programs in their own communities.

2015 Calendar Highlights April 22-27 May 15 May 20 May 22 May 27 May 38 May 31

Pro Musica Tour: Hawaii High School Awards Assembly 5th, 6th, JH Concert Band, & Concert Winds Spring Concert Junior High Awards Assembly Junior High Spring Choir Concert High School Pro Musica and Canticles Spring Concert 8th Grade Extravaganza

Graduation June 4 June 5 June 6

Junior High Graduation, 7:00 pm LLU Church High School Consecration Service, 7:30 pm LLU Church High School Baccalaureate Service, 9:00 am LLU Church Class Night, LLA HS Gym

June 7

High School Commencement Service, 6:00 pm LLA Field

June 10-17 Wind Symphony Tour: Italy June 14-26 Mission Trip: Kenya July 12-26 High School Government Trip

For more upcoming events, check our school calendar at www.lla.org/calendar 29

Welcome, Children’s Center Loma Linda Academy Welcomes the Children’s Center

by Scott Guptill

The Loma Linda Children’s Center joined the Loma Linda Academy family in July 2014.

T

he Loma Linda Children’s Center has a new name: The Loma Linda Academy Children’s Center. The announcement came on July 16, 2014 when the sign bearing the new name was revealed to cheers of children and administration. The center provides Christian care and education for children ages three months to five years old.

Loma Linda Academy officially welcomed the children’s center on July 1, 2014, to complement the college preparatory program serving transitional kindergarten to 12th grade. “We assure you that we will continue to provide the same quality care that parents have come to appreciate at the Children’s Center,” said Doug Herrmann, LLA Headmaster.

The center has seen over 6,000 children pass through its doors. With a convenient location, beautiful facility, 26 full-time staff, and licensing for up to 155 students, the children’s center often has a waiting list for enrollment.

The center opened in the late 1960s as a ministry of the Loma Linda University Church and utilized the church’s classrooms during the week. Although it had its own governing board under the direction of the church board, it also received additional leadership support from other institutions over the years including the Loma Linda University School of Public Health and the Southeastern California Conference.

30

Director, Julie Majestic, has worked at the center for over 25 years. “Our relationship with Loma Linda Academy has been wonderful

“We are so pleased that the children’s center is now a part of the Loma Linda Academy family,” said Herrmann. “Their tradition of excellent preschool care and instruction will be a strong addition to the academy program. We welcome the faculty, staff, students, and parents into the mission of LLA – to provide a Christ-like and nurturing environment to prepare students spiritually, academically, physically, and socially for higher education, life in a global society, and for eternity.”

Photos: Scott Guptill

With a new name, comes a new sign.

“This transition has been so smooth that I can only see good things coming from it,” said parent, Carol Berger.

throughout the years, so when the opportunity arose to join forces, it seemed like a perfect fit,” Majestic said.

Fun activities help to prepare students for Kindergarten at LLA.

Athletics Stats 2014-2015 Wins-Losses Women’s Varsity Volleyball Women’s Junior Varsity Volleyball

20-5 7-8

Photos: Scott Guptill

Head Coach: Bettesue Constanzo Assistant Coach: Joe Hale Men’s Team: 7 members Women’s Team: 25 members Season Outlook: Strong; steadily climbing the ranks at their meets. Some of the team members have already made their CIF qualifying times.

Team Highlight: Students who have never participated in the HS Varsity program are on the new swim team!

Photo: Danelle Taylor Johnston

Head Coach: Greg Cheng Coaches: Iwan Ong, Meng-Khiang (MK) Ong, ’13 Coach/Sponsor: Gene Oswald Coach/Manager: Betty Ong Team: 28 members Team Outlook: 2014 SAL Champion undefeated for both Varsity and Jr. Varsity.

2014 CIFSS Division 1 Quarter Finalist 2015 Defending SAL Champion for Varsity and Jr. Varsity.

Team Highlights: Captain Meng-Yung Ong, ’15 2014 Manhattan Beach Junior International Men’s Single

U19 (under 19) Champion.

2014 Men’s Double with Olympic Gold Medalist Tony Gunawan

at OCBC Grand Prix.

2014 SoCal Regional U19 Men’s Single Semi-Finalist 2014 USBDF Winter Junior International U19 Men’s

Doubles 2nd place, Men’s Singles Semi-finalist 2014 Current SAL Mixed Doubles Champion 2014 CIFSS Men’s Singles 3rd place Captain Freddie Simental, ’15 2014 SAL Men’s Singles 3rd place 2014 SAL Men’s Doubles 2nd place Captain Elissa Giang, ’16 2014 SAL Women’s Singles 3rd place 2014 SAL Women’s Doubles Champion Captain Emily Pangalila, ’17 2014 SoCal Higher Up Badminton Tournament Women’s Single Silver Medalist.

Captain Jessica Mendoza, ’16 2014 SAL Mixed Doubles Champion Former Captain Corinne Atiga, ’16 2014 SAL Women’s Doubles Champion Gerald Cheng, ’15 2014 SAL Men’s Doubles 2nd place

LLA Swim

Photo: Areli Merodio

Photo: Betty Ong

LLA Badminton

Wins-Losses

Men’s Varsity Basketball Men’s Junior Varsity Basketball Women’s Varsity Basketball Women’s Junior Varsity Basketball

17-8 10-6 18-7 7-8

Wins-Losses-Ties Men’s Varsity Soccer Men’s Junior Varsity Soccer Women’s Varsity Soccer Women’s Junior Varsity Soccer

10-7-2 9-5-1 2-19-0 2-13-0 31

Loma Linda Academy 10656 Anderson Street Loma Linda, CA 92354

Non-Profit Organization US Postage

PAID San Bernardino, CA Permit No. 1276

Make a Gift

When you make a gift to Loma Linda Academy through your will, trust, or retirement plan, you are seeding an orchard that will nourish generations of students to come.

Planned gifts offer creative, flexible strategies for your estate and charitable planning. Some even provide you with income and many have generous tax savings.

The greatest benefit? Knowing your gift will provide vital future support for students, faculty, facilities, and programs at Loma Linda Academy.

“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.� -Matthew 6:21 Your gift is an investment that provides a Christ-centered and nurturing environment that prepares students spiritually, academically, physically, and socially for higher education, for life in a global society, and for eternity.

Would you consider partnering with us?

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If you would like to update or set up an estate plan, please contact: Tony Reyes (909) 796-0161 Ext. 3340 Send a message to: giftplanning@lla.org Visit: lla.org/giving