Loma Linda Academy
Reflections Summer/Fall 2010
Grand Op ening Dedication
Loma Linda Academy Administration and Board of Trustees cordially invite you to the
Grand Op ening Dedication of the new Junior High Gymnasium
Sabbath, August 21, 2010, 5 p.m. [Refreshments to follow in the Multipurpose room]
contents page 2
Junior High gym
Alumni update
page 4
page 6-7
LLA
Sports Gala
page 8-9
Robert Schaefer ’39 Alumni Sabbath
page 16
page 10
page 13
Salvation Submarine
New York Band Tour Spring Break
2010
Saturday night, August 21, 2010 Vespers @ 7:30 pm on the field followed by flag football games @ 8:15 pm
Feldkamp/Jacobson Endowment
Building update
page 19
page 14-15
Young Alumni
Graduations
page 18
So long, farewell
save-the-date Thursday, August 19, 2010 First day of School Minimum Day Sabbath, August 21, 2010 Grand Opening Dedication, Junior High Gym Young Alumni Homecoming Sunday, September 19, 2010 11th Annual Golf Tournament East Valley Golf Club Home of the Southern California PGA Sunday, October 17, 2010 Loma Linda Community Parade & Fair Sabbath, November 6, 2010 Music Vespers University Church
editor Mary Morgan designer Shawna Campbell contributing writers Mary Morgan Lynne Hattendorf Dorita West Robert Skoretz Clayton Koh Ashley Mayberry Datha Tickner Pam Dietrich Alexa Frazier Kelsey Hebard contributing photographers Shawna Campbell Mary Morgan Datha Tickner
contributing photographers House of Portraits Bing Frazier Jessica Williams
Join us...
Reflections is a publication provided to alumni and friends of Loma Linda Academy, an elementary, junior high and high school owned and operated by the Southeastern California Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. Reflections Loma Linda Academy 10656 Anderson Street Loma Linda, CA 92354 909.796.0161 fax 909.796.8261 www.lla.org
on facebook or our website at www.lla.org
about the cover... Robert Schaefer ‘39 with finance Forence Fisher ‘45 on Alumni Sabbath
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[[ alumni update ]] Loma Linda Academy Senior follows Sister to the Ivy League With his college applications done and graduation right around the corner, it would not be long before Kristian Beall found out where he would spend the next four years after high school. After logging onto his “Admissions Account” at the college, he hoped to attend, Kristian was excited by the message that greeted him: “Congratulations, you’ve been accepted to Cornell.” And although other colleges had accepted him, he knew, right then and there, exactly which one he was going to attend. He could not pass up the opportunity to go to one of the top-rated business programs in the country and join his sister Hannah, Loma Linda Academy Class of 2008, who is a Junior at Cornell. Kristian entered Loma Linda Academy in the first grade, having left Montessori in Redlands. Happy with the educational environment his new school provided, he continued to grow as a student. His favorite subjects in high school have been physics and graphic arts. Kristian played Varsity Golf at LLA for the past four years. He was All-League and Team Most Valuable Player 2008, 2009, and 2010. He was also Team Captain 2009 and 2010. In the 2010 Christian League Individual Golf Finals, he placed 3rd and qualified for the CIF Southern Section Individual State High School Championships. In the Fall, Kristian will try out for Cornell’s golf team. Kristian is a member of the National Honor Society, a 1st Degree Black Belt in Tae Kwon do, and received the rank of Eagle Scout in 2009. This fall, Kristian will travel to the East Coast to attend Cornell’s Agriculture and Life Science College with an interest in studying business. While he is looking forward to beginning a new chapter in his academic life, he will always be grateful for the experiences, friendships, and education provided at Loma Linda Academy.
Hannah ‘08 and Kristian Beall ‘10
Congratulations to our National Merit Scholars for 2010
Finalist: April Vassantachart Commended: Sharla Chang and Nathan Lee National Hispanic Recognition Program Scholar: Ruth Lopez National Hispanic Recognition Program Honorable Mention: Raul (Tony) Hernandez National Achievement Outstanding Participant: Gregory Forbes
Doreen Fang One goal of the Loma Linda Academy’s administration, faculty and staff is that when students graduate they go on to pursue their talents and make a difference in the world. That is certainly true of alumna Doreen Fang. Currently, Fang is living her dream, competing for her own Food Network show on “The Next Food Network Star” – Food Network’s #1 show. The competition begins in June. Fang states, “My goal is to have my own show and share my passion for food. Somewhere down the road, I would also like to open a school for underprivileged children.” Born in Loma Linda, Fang graduated from LLA in 1989. She continued her education at the University of California, Irvine earning a degree in Political Science in 1994. She then earned an Associate of Occupational Studies from the California Culinary Academy. Her love for cooking and experimenting with different cuisines and ingredients led to her co-owning a catering company, which features California cuisine, and teaching cooking classes for adults and children. She shares many of her ideas on her blog: “Dining with Doreen” at www.diningwithdoreen.com Raised in a predominantly Chinese community in Los Angeles, Fang finds culinary inspiration from her family and friends and believes in spending quality time with family in the kitchen. She learned a lot about Chinese cooking and culture from her mother, who passed away after a long battle with cancer. In honor of her mom, she and her sister started the Bonnie A.C. Lee Fang Foundation which gives scholarships to undergraduate and graduate nursing students. Fang is a very determined woman, full of exuberance and humor. Her school family will be cheering her on to become LLA’s next Food Network star!
[[ l. roo mckenzie & dorita west ]] 5
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L. Roo McKenzie, Dorita West, Regina MacKenzie
L. Roo McKenzie and Bill Arnold
It was a festive occasion for the Loma Linda community on January 28 when the Chamber of Commerce held its Annual Community Awards and Installation Dinner at the San Bernardino Hilton Hotel. Twelve local honorees received recognition for their contribution to the Chamber and the community during 2009. Among those honored was Loma Linda Academy Junior High Language Arts teacher, Dorita West, as Loma Linda’s Teacher of the Year. L. Roo McKenzie, LLA head principal, was awarded the Excellence in Education Award by the city. Congratulations to West and McKenzie for their service to Loma Linda Academy and the community!
[[ thank you ]]
Loma Linda Academy employees with 20 years or more from 1976 on: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14.
Arlene Arthur Grace Ballou Lionel Ballou Phil Binkley Diane Bradley Mark Brettnacher Carol Brink Dave Burishkin Anne Chaffee Joyce Christoffel Pam Dietrich Nikki Gonzalez Jon Hall Jay Linthicum
15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27.
Ruth Moses Bonnie Pernula Sue Peterson Gloria Redfield Beth Robertson Andy Sandiford Mary Jean Shelton Steve Simons Janis Smith Sergio Uribe Pat Villanueva Reinhard Welley Dorita West
Webster’s Dictionary defines employment as “the condition of being employed, an occupation or activity.” However for a group of dedicated faculty and staff at Loma Linda Academy, employment is more. It is a life of service and passion for children. Not many individuals stay at one job for more than a few years. However, after some research, Pam Dietrich, Librarian and former English teacher, discovered that 27 faculty and staff have been employed at LLA for 20+ years. Among this group are 12 individuals who have served LLA for 30+ years. At the year-end dinner this group was recognized with remarks of appreciation by administration and the Board Chairman, Verlon Strauss. That is quite an accomplishment! We believe it is something to celebrate and congratulate.
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Let the Games Begin! [by Datha Tickner]
The anticipation has been building for years! Literally! LLA’s Jr. High and High School will no longer have to squeeze into the same gymnasium and locker rooms for P.E. classes or varsity games. After decades of hoping and dreaming, the reality of a new Jr. High P.E. and athletic complex is here. Though it is nice to have a new building, it really wouldn’t be complete without some essentials…like a floor! Last year LLA sponsored a “Hoop-LLA” where the students raised enough funds to buy new hoops and backboards for this new gym. This year, the school decided the priority would be a wood floor in our brand new gym! The question was, “How can we fund the floor?” The idea of hosting a sports gala took root. Under the creative genius of LLA’s Development Department this idea grew into a fun, sports-themed evening. Countless hours donated by multiple parents, businesses, and various volunteers resulted in a Sports Gala on April 18, 2010. The photos, the brochures, the banners, and the decorations really brought energy and a team spirit to the event! Over 350 guests arrived in everything
Right: The LLA High School gymnasium was transformed to accomodate guests who came to support the school fundraiser.
Gala Committee Ruth Zalsman, Darice Lang, Odilis Purdom, Mary Morgan, Shawna Campbell, Hannah Young
from sports jerseys to suits. LLA’s Big Band and Jr. High’s small ensembles provided great music during the evening. The Jr. High teachers brought smiles and spirit to the crowd as they lip-synced a routine to the song, “We’re All in This Together.” LLA’s cheerleaders got everyone pumped up after viewing a sports video highlighting LLA. The K-12 P.E. teachers surprised the audience with their rhythmic routine to the favorite sport event song, “We Will Rock You.” One of the highlights of the evening was a virtual tour of the new gym from top to bottom led by Bill Arnold in his “Eye on LLA” broadcast. It was exciting to actually see the building layout and picture all the things that will happen there. After many laughs, good food and great entertainment, our goal of $100,000 to “Fund the Floor” was raised by private donations, tickets sales, and silent/live auctions that evening. The new wood floor has been ordered and installation will take place this summer. We want to thank the supportive LLA stakeholders who believe in Loma Linda Academy’s future!
A special
Thank You Student Athletes and Cheer Squad
Loma Linda University Catering Kevin Nam (LLA cafe)
LLA Big Band and Chamber Ensembles under the direction of Giovanni Santos and Kirk Udvardi
Serrano Nursery Andres and Marina Serrano
Food Preparation Volunteers Odilis Purdom and team
The House of Portraits
Decorations Darice Lang and team
Audio & Video Doug Mace and crew
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JZ’s Party Charm
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Auctioneer Bill Arnold
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LLU Printing Services Banners and printed material
Silent Auction Ruth Zalsman and team
Far Left: Chris Ambs enjoys entertaining the crowd along with the JH staff. Left: Odilis Purdom was our parent volunteer who organized the preparation of food. Above: Dr. McKenzie is recognized for his dedication to LLA.
Far Left: LLA Big Band and Chamber Ensembles provided entertainment under the direction of Giovanni Santos and Kirk Udvardi. Left: Guests enjoy a real sports meal of hot dogs, chips and salads.
Thank you to our
Fund the Floor
Sponsors:
The Hodgkin Family Loma Linda University The Herber Family The Herrick Family The Strauss Family
The Razzouk Family LLU-School of Medicine Chen Wen Lin & Salete Rios Chen
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“
[by Mary Morgan and the Schaefer family]
If someone wants to hire someone with a high school diploma, I can now get the job... if they can put up with an 89 year-old man.
”
Robert Anthony Schaefer
April 10, 2010 was a memorable day for Robert Anthony Schaefer, class of 1939. During Alumni Homecoming, his long-awaited diploma from Loma Linda Academy was finally awarded him at age 89. Schaefer said he just went to enjoy the yearly event and was shocked and amazed that the school would do that for him. Most people go to school and earn a diploma to be able to succeed in life. Some people, however, are unable to earn such a diploma for reasons beyond their control, and yet, through their own initiative, are able to succeed. Because Schaefer worked in the Academy kitchen to help pay for his tuition, he missed much of his chemistry class and was, therefore, unable to graduate. Schaefer married at age 19. He and his wife Dorothy welcomed identical twin sons thirteen months later. This was right after the Great Depression when money was scarce, and Schaeffer had no opportunity to continue his education while supporting his new family. In 1943, his parents decided to build a home out in the country. Because Schaefer had no experience in construction, a carpenter/neighbor told him how to place the house on the lot, how deep to dig the footings, and continued to coach him until the wood-frame house was completed. In those days, no building permits or home inspections were required. Schaefer’s best friend and Academy classmate, Dwight
Golay, asked him to help build a house five lots away. With more help from the carpenter/neighbor, Schaefer and Golay built a home out of concrete blocks. Eventually, they built a home on Mountain View Avenue in Loma Linda so that Schaefer’s sons could attend Loma Linda Academy, starting in the first grade. These experiences led to Schaefer constructing custom homes all over Loma Linda and San Bernardino. Through Schaefer’s exceptional work, his company won the contracts for building what today is known as the Loma Linda University Church and the five-story tower on the Loma Linda University School of Dentistry. When Schaefer retired at age 75, he started installing satellite dishes so that people could watch Three Angel’s Broadcasting Network and Loma Linda Broadcasting Network. To date, he and his business partner have installed more than 6,000 satellite dishes. As a missionary project, Schaefer has purchased and loaned more than thirty satellite systems for people who could not afford their own. He also enjoys restoring antique and classic cars in his spare time. A widower, Schaefer, has outlived most of his classmates and is now engaged to be married. When one of his sons asked why he recently bought his sixth rental property, he answered, “I’ve got to be concerned about my future.”
Alumni Weekend
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Honored 25 year class
40 year class
45 year class
60 year class
Back row (left to right): Roger Hinshaw, Jim Wise, Jack Libby, Larry Willis, Kenneth Allred. Center row: Shirley Rutherford-Hinshaw, Dianna Burton-Mohr, Linda Angell-Close, Darlene Berdan-Hamerslough, Beth Ann Appleton-Wear, Merle Whitney, David Emori. Front row: Jean Mittleider-Wise, Connie Titus-West, Sandra Myers-Makovsky, Sylvia Ashworth-Sheppard, Anita Hibbard-Rein, Roger Kopitzke.
Honored 50 year class
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Schaefer lacked one credit in chemistry and was unable to receive his high school diploma 71 years ago. Schaefer’s sons, Dick and Bob, along with other family and friends kept the secret of this special day that had been in the planning for several months. Pastor Merle Whitney, ’60, presented the morning homily titled “Live Beyond the Irreversible.” Shirley Rutherford Hinshaw, ’60, Jim Wise, ’60 and Doyleen Rutherford Schlenker, ’57 provided special music. After the program, the alumni enjoyed a yummy meal and visited with classmates. Several groups gathered at separate class reunions. Those not attending a class reunion were invited to an evening basketball game between the LLA Faculty and Loma Linda Firefighters, followed by one between the varsity boy’s basketball team and a young alumni team. An invitation is extended to everyone to save the date and attend next year’s Alumni Weekend on Sabbath, April 9, 2011.
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Alums from the past 70+ years gathered to renew friendships and celebrate at the Alumni Homecoming on April 10. In the 50 years since the class of 1960 graduated, many things have changed. Nowadays, most Loma Linda Academy students carry their own cell phones rather than use the office phone for calls. Also the cost of tuition has risen from a few hundred dollars a year to several thousand dollars. Yet traffic and congestion getting in and out of Loma Linda Academy parking lots remains an issue. The honored classes of 1960 and 1985 participated in the alumni church service. The class of 1970 was also well represented. Alums, friends, family, and staff members reminisced about school days gone by as they watched a video about LLA. Cheers from the audience echoed as classmates recognized pictures of friends. Awarding a diploma to Robert Anthony Schaefer, class of 1939, provided the highlight of the day.
[by Mary Morgan]
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Our Blessings to Roo...
“
”
There is nothing more important that you can do than what you do for children.
Dear Family and Friends of LLA: Successful leadership at its best is a relay. No one person can finish the work of God. Moses passed the baton/rod in his race to Joshua. Elijah passed his mantle to Elisha. David passed the scepter to Solomon. “The old order changeth, yielding place to new; and God fulfills Himself in many ways, lest one custom should corrupt the world.” I have run my leg of the journey as the lead individual at LLA. It is time for a new leader to take the baton and push LLA to the next level! It has been my honor and distinct privilege to serve you as the head principal at Loma Linda Academy for the past fourteen years. During this time, I had the joy of working with many outstanding professionals who understand the mission of Adventist Christian education. In as much as I led the team to complete the goals in our two strategic plans, all credit goes to the team of teachers and staff who did the real hard work. Because of this the leaders in the foreground were able to stay on target with their eyes fixed on the goal of helping students to develop a forever friendship with Jesus Christ their Savior. The number one goal of my work as principal has always been the salvation of our students for when it is all said and done, nothing else matters! During my tenure as head principal, I boasted often about our high achieving students, our many merit scholars, and the 99% of our students who attend college. But those accomplishments were only secondary to the real mission of Adventist education. There were great days and melancholy days at work, but the greatest days were those times when I saw students enter the baptismal pool and were buried with their Lord in death and raised to walk in newness of life with their Savior. God has given us as parents and teachers, the gift of children and the privilege to assist in populating heaven with these children…His heritage. Even as God has blessed us with children, so also we must bless Him by returning them to Him. As an educator my mantra has always been, and will always be, “there is nothing more important that you can do than what you do for children.” After the pleasures of life are past, our children are the only treasures who will inhabit eternity. Nothing else will matter. Thanks for the privilege of serving you and your family at Loma Linda. I plan to meet you and your children for a grand reunion under the Tree of Life. Promise God that you and your little flock will be there, present and on time! Until then, may the abundant blessings of God grace your life with every good and desired gift from above. Educating for eternity, L. Roo McKenzie, Ed.D., Head Principal 1996-2010
So Long, Farewell...
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The reason it hurts so much to separate is because our souls are connected. ~Nicholas Sparks
together all the time,” explains Grace Ballou. Knipschild is going to miss being around teenagers and the friendliness, creativity, and energy they have. His fondest memory from the time he has
”
Grace and Lionel Ballou
Dave Burishkin
Christian Education Evangelism for the Southeastern California Conference. He hopes to find ways to make Christian education available to all Seventh-day Adventist children. Loma Linda Academy holds a multitude of memories for students and teachers alike. Watching their own children go through high school at LLA is the most cherished memory for the Ballous. “Backpacking with the kids [students] one weekend out of every month and seeing the grandkids here and hearing them say, ‘Grandpa!’” are some of Lionel Ballou’s best memories. The Ballous are both grateful that the school was so supportive of them. They were able to teach close to each other. “We are best friends and have been for so long because we are
spent at LLA remains “getting Canticles, the 36-voice, non-audition choir, to a level where the members produced a quality tour this spring, independent of Pro Musica—I am very proud of them.” Watching a student being baptized brings McKenzie the “highest joy.” He will miss witnessing the baptisms at the junior high and high school graduations. He will also miss the yearly K-12th grade assemblies, filled with the students’ combined energy. Burishkin’s memories include going on the senior and ski trips to Lake Havasu with the students and watching the student sports every season. However, the event that he treasures most and will always remain with him is “When the school had a pep rally for me, and they all wore T-shirts with my face on them; that was really nice.” He says he will miss the students but also the school administrators who were really supportive of his classroom activities. “They would say, ‘get what you want,’ and they would pay the bill.” This allowed him to acquire the large assortment of equipment used in the physics classes. Along with the memories made at
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Washington near their son, daughterin-law, and grandchild. While McKenzie is leaving LLA, he is not really retiring. Instead, he will be taking on the job of Pastor Advocate for
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As the 2009-2010 school year at LLA comes to a close, students, faculty, and staff experience a familiar collection of emotions: relief that big projects, tests are complete, and grades finished; excitement for the approaching summer break; and sadness for the end of a memory-filled year. The conclusion of this school year is definitely bittersweet for the five faculty members who are retiring: Lionel Ballou (former history teacher, current work-experience and testing coordinator), Grace Ballou (drawing and painting teacher), David Burishkin (physics and algebra I teacher), Calvin Knipschild (Canticles and Pro Musica director), and L. Roo McKenzie (head principal). The decision to leave a place one has known for many years, or even a few, is often difficult to make. Some of the faculty have been working together for 25 years or more, which makes leaving that much more difficult. “Schools don’t usually have that [many long-time faculty members],” said Burishkin. For the Ballous, who have worked at LLA for 33 years, the choice to retire may have been expected yet not easy. [I will be enjoying more time at home] “playing art,” Grace Ballou said. “Gardening and reading as much as I want” will fill time for Lionel Ballou. While they are definitely excited for the relaxation ahead, they also expect that it will be a bit “lonesome,” Grace Ballou said. After 29 years at LLA, Burishkin plans to “take it easy. I want to watch my health and keep ahead of that.” He will also be popping in to physics classes every now and then to help with labs. He will be volunteering, which will be enjoyable, he said “because he will just get to have fun and not deal with the tests and homework.” Knipschild’s decision to retire after six years of directing choirs at LLA was influenced by his desire to “start dating” his wife again. They will be moving into a house they designed in Washougal,
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[by Kelsey Hebard ‘10]
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LLA, the retirees have also learned from their students. “No matter what awful thing happens, it will get better. There will always be a better day” is a lesson Lionel Ballou treasures. Knipschild learned the value of patience and perseverance and that “anybody can do a good job if they try
Calvin Knipschild
and believe in themselves.” McKenzie and the Ballous drew a similar conclusion from the students: whatever a student may look like or wear, a teacher can only learn about the student by getting to know him/her. Burishkin learned something new every day. “As long as you’re listening, you learn a lot like who is in love with whom.” He also learned “the only good reason to have a cell phone in class.” A physics student recently found the specific temperature of gold through her cell phone’s Internet access. Lionel Ballou would like to leave the students with these words of wisdom: “You are in the right place.” He adds, “The future belongs to those who prepare for it, but you should still also have some fun and be a kid.” Grace Ballou cautioned, “But don’t do
“
God is the piece of the puzzle that finishes it. He is the most important piece... ~ Roo McKenzie
foolish things that are permanent.” “I feel very fortunate that I could end my career here at LLA; the students have blessed my life abundantly,” said Knipschild, who would love to be able to direct his students again in heaven someday. His advice to all students: “Salvation is not a game; make sure you have a relationship with Jesus.” McKenzie offers similarly powerful words: “God is the piece of the puzzle that finishes it. He is the most important
”
happened during the same week LLA was beginning it’s gym floor renovation. At a gas station, Burishkin met a man from Oklahoma who renovates gym floors. This man ended up helping out with the LLA gym floor because Burishkin took the time to introduce himself, asked about his life experience and invited him to help. Students and colleagues will miss these friendships that have been developed over the years.
LLA says Goodbye to... Ella Taylor retired as a school counselor for the elementary and junior high after 8 years.
L. Roo McKenzie
piece; if he is missing, then life is unfinished.” “Things happen for a reason; the Lord takes care of you. Look and see where the Lord is helping you. You gotta look” are words to live by from Burishkin. He has learned this to be true from experiences like the one that
Datha Tickner
Loma Linda Academy bids a fond farewell to Datha Tickner. In 2001, Tickner came to LLA to teach JH girls PE and coach. In 2005, she completed her MA degree in Administration and Leadership and was asked to move to the Vice-Principal’s position at the Elementary school. The Elementary will miss her dedicated work, “can-do” approach, and attention to detail. It is with our greatest blessings and love that we send her to serve as principal at Orangewood Adventist Academy.
Karen Hoatson will be moving to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho where their family plans to settle.
Rose Anjejo remains in Loma Linda and will be missed in the library.
Brian Gang accepted a job as Teacher/Principal in Washington.
Chris Ambs accepted a job teaching Science at Forest Lake Academy in Florida.
J’Leen Saeger is relocating to Texas with her family. She taught high school Spanish.
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Salvation Submarine [by Clayton Koh]
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reading, speaking, and writing skills. Students also reported learning important social skills, including teamwork, conflict resolution, and patience. Most importantly, kids experienced first-hand the lifechanging, challenging, and very rewarding aspects of spreading the gospel message of Matthew 28:19 to the world. The Salvation Submarine is the second TV show that LLBN and LLE have created together. Last year, the Hope Train was produced and filmed in the LLBN studio, and the 13-episode season began airing this spring. The Hope Train can be viewed on LLBN on Sabbath mornings at 9:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. It can be watched via satellite or on the Internet at www. llbn.tv. by clicking on the “Watch LLBN” tab. The Salvation Submarine and the Hope Train are just two of the many shows that LLBN produces and airs worldwide. The Salvation Submarine splashes on TV or computer screens in several months after editing and marketing are completed. This is just the beginning of what God is doing though these students. Thanks to parent support, kid creativity, LLBN’s production, and the inspiration and power of the Holy Spirit, both The Hope Train and the Salvation Submarine will be effective tools to share the life-changing gospel of Jesus Christ to the entire world!
Above: Filming Salvation Submarine. Left: Clayton Koh’s 4th grade class.
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Killer whales powered by the Holy Spirit, hermit crabs covered by the full armor of God, and oysters transformed through irritating experiences—these are just a few of the many unexpected sights that kids see while aboard the Salvation Submarine. The Salvation Submarine is the newest Loma Linda Broadcasting Network (LLBN) children’s television show created, written, and acted by some pretty talented 4th graders at Loma Linda Elementary, guided by their teacher Clayton Koh. In each episode, viewers in 149 countries worldwide will embark on an underwater adventure. A scuba diver, a game-show host, an engineer, a marine biologist, some passengers, and two captains greet and guide them on a bubblepopping journey that will lead to discoveries of Biblical treasures found in the underwater plants and animals. Viewers learn through stories, science, and songs that the Bible can be fun while providing valuable lessons for their lives. This show was a part of the service-learning curriculum that is widespread on the campus of Loma Linda Academy. Teachers and students work together to learn academic content through real-life service projects that simultaneously motivate learning and enhance the lives of others in the community and, though television or the Internet, around the world. The Salvation Submarine project taught students
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The band performs on the aircraft carrier Intrepid.
New York Band Tour
[[ Many students said that this trip was the best band trip they
[by Alexa Frazier ‘11]
“Amazing” does not even begin to describe the Symphonic Band’s 2010 Tour to New York from May 5-10. No student will forget the challenges the band faced in order to perform at the New York Mets’ game at Citifield. Playing in the 50-degree weather, the wind blowing15-30 m.p.h., band members shivered in their short-sleeved shirts, music pieces about to fly everywhere and music stands ready to fall over. Luckily, the chaperones and some kind New Yorkers steadied the copies and stands for the musicians. The trip was a good balance between touring and performances that many seniors observed. Favorite parts of the trip included performing on the aircraft carrier Intrepid and at both North Eastern Academy and Blue Mountain Academy, making new friends at different schools, group chants (“Santos on three” 1- 2- 3 “Santos!”), the bonding of the band members, sight- seeing, shopping and, of course, the bus rides. Many students said that this trip was the best band trip they had ever taken. On the last night of the trip, the students stayed up all night, eating at ESPN Zone located in Times Square. While the group had to leave New York the next day and return home, Loma Linda Academy Symphonic Band musicians will be left with strong memories: the top of the Rockefeller building, the snacks bought from street vendors, the green fields at Blue Mountain Academy, and the voices of the North Eastern Academy students singing and dancing along to LLA’s performance of Lion King music.
had ever taken...]]
[by Robert Skoretz]
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LLA students in front of Roman ruins.
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When most people think of “Spring Break” and teenagers, they envision kids playing at the beach, shopping at the mall, or just lounging in front of the television at home. This year Loma Linda Academy provided twenty-one students and five adult sponsors the opportunity to spend their Spring Break serving others on a mission trip to Portugal. The general population of Portugal faces significant healthrelated challenges. The Seventh-day Adventist Church in Portugal is addressing these health issues by hosting Health Expositions and by building a Health and Wellness Center near Penela. Students from Loma Linda Academy worked on the building project and conducted a number of Health Expositions at local public schools. Students chose to come on this trip for a variety of reasons. Tenth-grader Kyle Kunihira explained, “I just got baptized, and I wanted to do something!” Many students eagerly anticipated meeting new people and experiencing a different
culture. Eleventh-grader Lydia Kore will always remember that “the people there were more friendly, welcoming, and thankful than people I have ever met before!” At the building site, students worked hard on the early stages of the project by clearing brush for new buildings and cleaning up existing buildings for renovation. During the health expositions at local schools, LLA students gave health lectures to children in various grade levels and then worked at different booths, helping kids measure their health and learn better ways to live. Brooke Stimmel (11th) described her job: “I worked at the exercise booth, taking heart rates before and after exercise to see if they [participants] were healthy.” Many of the kids visiting the expos would express surprise when they learned simple and vital information on how to live a more healthy lifestyle. In all, students reported how satisfying it was to spend their time helping others. Twelfth-grader Michaela McGinnis perhaps spoke for the whole group when she said, “It has changed my view on the world and made me a better person!” The mission trip also included some sightseeing. The group toured the ruins of a Roman city, walked the streets of one of the oldest university towns in all of Europe, hiked gorgeous local nature trails, and enjoyed the sights and sounds around Lisbon. Loma Linda Academy values service-learning as a critical part of Christian education. Most students who serve on a mission trip in high school continue to serve in missionrelated projects throughout their college years and careers. Each year LLA students take one continental mission trip and one international mission trip. Plans are already in place for a mission trip to Kenya next school year. Loma Linda Academy thanks its community and alumni for their prayers and support.
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A Spring Break to Remember
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[by Ashley Mayberry]
Kindergarten Graduation
When graduation day finally arrived, the Loma Linda Elementary’s 2010 Kindergarten class was ready, and excitement crackled in the air! The 77 students had spent many hours learning and rehearsing the Pledge of Allegiance, The Lord’s Prayer, and “God Bless America.” They were confident and excited to perform for their parents, relatives, and friends, and the audience appeared eager to view the presentation. At the first notes of “Pomp and Circumstance,” cameras flashed as the students made their entrance, found their places, said their pieces, and sang their song. The teachers sat in the front row, giving cues, encouraging smiles, and moral support to the graduates. Amid loud cheers, the LLE students received their diplomas. Like Jesus, these children are growing “in wisdom, and stature, and in favor” with God and their community.
Eric Curiel (center) celebrates Kindergarten graduation with his teachers Edith Cameron (left) and Robyn Mendoza (right).
Junior High Graduation
Above left to right: Matthew Evangelista, Aaron Ebuenga, Trevor Ferrell, Brian Fernandez, Benjamin Fenison. Right: Bailey Quishenberry, Raechelle Neufeld, Heidi Nawar and Katelyn Kroetz.
[by Dorita West]
Loma Linda University Church was packed on the evening of June 3 as 105 eighth graders graduated from Loma Linda Academy Junior High. The junior high faculty joined hundreds of family and friends, smiling as the students received their diplomas and became new members of the high-school world. Following tradition, 12 students were baptized during the graduation ceremony. However, 17 other class members have been or will be baptized. A total of 29 students have given their lives to God from this eighth-grade class in just one year. Tom Quishenberry, a Bible teacher at Loma Linda Junior High for the past 13 years, gave the keynote address, titled “Final Words.” His daughter, Bailey Quishenberry, a graduating 8th grader, introduced her father. L. Roo McKenzie, head principal of Loma Linda Academy and Randy Penington, 7thgrade science teacher, handed out the diplomas. The ceremony featured a student address by Thomas Rauser, and the entire 8th-grade class affirmed its desire for Christian service with a performance of the inspirational song “Here I Am, Lord.” Opening and closing prayers were given by Irel Idrisalman and Malek Mayne. God will continue to bless this 8th-grade class as the students pursue their motto: “Today we’ve finished a race, but tomorrow we start a marathon.”
High School Graduation
Left: Edelyn Kumendong. Above: Bianca Brieno and Dominique Braggs.
reflections
Below on left: Brandon Rawsen. Below on right: Rory Macomber and Andrew Brooks.
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recalling memories he had shared with class members on campouts and other class activities. McKenzie summed up his speech, titled “iNothing” with these words: “No amount of things, degrees, medals or trophies that one may amass in a lifetime can compensate for the loss of one’s soul to the kingdom of God. Nothing! Therefore, let nothing prevent you from having a living and dynamic relationship with Jesus, now and forever. Nothing!” Former alumnus and much loved LLA teacher Elias Khoury spoke at Commencement, giving his address, “Perception.” The class presented its gift of a new flagpole to be set at the entrance to the new student-services building. After students received their diplomas, many K-12 faculty members formed LLA’s traditional recessional line, the graduates passing through to receive hugs and best wishes. Seven of the graduates have parents who are LLA faculty or staff. The sponsors of the Class of 2010 wish LLA’s newest alumni success wherever they go and encourage the graduates to return for visits.
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Loma Linda Academy graduated 141 seniors, the Class of 2010, during events on the weekend of June 4-6. The Friday evening Consecration service at the Loma Linda University Church included several musical pieces by students as well as messages from the six class sponsors. Each sponsor shared part of the homily which was taken from the book by Dr. Seuss, Oh, the Places You’ll Go! The messages included recollections of places the class had been from Kindergarten to grade 12 and places they plan to go. The class members were challenged to remember their class text, Proverbs 3:3 and to live up to its message throughout their lives, maintaining a life of kindness and truthfulness. Another highlight of the evening included the baptism of 15 seniors. The Baccalaureate service on Sabbath morning featured two speakers: Glenn Elssmann, ‘81 and parent of senior Ryan Elssmann, and L. Roo McKenzie, outgoing LLA Head Principal. Elssmann highlighted the “one” and “zero” in 2010,
[by Lynne Hattendorf]
Center: Erin in high school. Right: Amy with friends after a football game.
www.lla.org I 18
Vanessa at graduation with friends.
Feldkamp/Jacobson Scholarship Endowment On March 22, 2009, the community of Loma Linda was devastated by the sudden loss of Vanessa Feldkamp Pullen (‘89) Erin Jacobson (‘91) and Amy Feldkamp Jacobson (‘93) in a plane crash. The tragedy was deeply felt among classmates and friends in and beyond the Loma Linda community. The friendships that started on the Loma Linda Academy campus blossomed into bonds that continued through college and beyond. Friends reflecting about Vanessa, Erin, and Amy say they were individuals who enjoyed life, were academic as well as athletic, strived for success yet remained humble, and had a unique ability to put life in perspective. Friendships at LLA overlapped grade levels with relationships starting in grade school and maturing over many years. As reunions take place year after year, alumni reconnect with friends and share stories of past and present; however, a void remains because three classmates now are missing. This year’s gathering will be no different as the Class of 1990 celebrates in July it’s 20 year reunion. Emotions of joy and
Vanessa Feldkamp Pullen (‘89)
Erin Jacobson (‘91)
excitement will be coupled with emotions of sadness and loss for those friends who are absent. In honor of Vanessa, Amy, and Erin, the Class of 1990 and friends are launching a campaign to raise funds for the Feldkamp/Jacobson Scholarship Endowment. This new scholarship endowment at LLA will continue the legacy of these three amazing people who touched so many lives. Interest funds from the endowment principal will be awarded each year to a qualifying high school student. It is the desire of the Class of 1990 that the recipient of the scholarship embody the qualities that Vanessa, Erin and Amy exemplified. The Class of 1990 can think of no greater tribute than to encourage those same qualities in a young student at LLA. All contributions to the endowment fund will be tax-deductible. Contributions of any amount are greatly appreciated and can be made on line at www.lla.org or mailed to LLA. Contact Mary Morgan in the LLA Advancement Office for more information.
Amy Feldkamp Jacobson (‘93)
Today’s gifts help tomorrow’s students Why not make a gift to the LLA endowment and have it matched dollar-for-dollar?
Endowments
Clark Davis Endowment Scholarship Mary E. Rodricks Memorial Scholarship Evelyn Heinrich Memorial Scholarship Nancy Harlan Memorial Scholarship Class of 2005 Scholarship Douglas Peterson Memorial Scholarship Jenny & John Laurell Scholarship Fund Radich Scholarship Athletic Department Booster Club Lawson & Rita Sutherland Speakers Bureau Ballou Family Scholarship Harley Boehm Memorial Scholarship Koobs String Endowment Teacher Enrichment Endowment Student Scholarship Fund
$21,000 $71,200 $10,200 $10,748 $10,000 $19,400 $106,000 $156,000 $13,816 $20,000 $27,000 $10,400 $110,000 $26,400 $140,884
TOTAL...................................................................$753,048
Nathan Lee, Ruthie Lopez, Mary Morgan, Kerry Heinrich, Bill Arnold, Bob Dennis, Art Walls, Fred Simental, L. Roo McKenzie
LLA... Watch Us Grow We broke ground for the Student Service Building last July 2009.
This new building will provide needed classrooms for our students as well as administration offices.
The Student Service Building is scheduled to be completed for the 2011-2012 school year.
Reflections Loma Linda Academy 10656 Anderson Street Loma Linda, CA 92354
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