Mount Dora Christian Academy - Imagine - Winter 2015

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Imagine Magazine Winter 2015 | 1

CONTENTS | WINTER 2015

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Letter From The President 3 Children’s Home 4 Development 4 Homecoming 8 Athletics 10 Fall Festival 12 Veterans Day 13 Fine Arts 14 Building Dedication 16 70 Year/Alumni 18

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Photo: Laura Barker & Glenn Bigsby Photo taken by: Ma lcolm Yawn

FOR THESE UPCOMING EVENTS! FEBRUARY 21

Jacksonville Benefit Dinner

FEBRUARY 27

APRIL 20-24

Chicken Supper

MARCH 7

SW Florida Benefit Dinner

MARCH 16-20 Spring Break

MARCH 27

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APRIL 11

Boyd Scholarship Dinner

Chicken Supper

APRIL 8

Math Carnival

Art Festival 24th - Chicken Supper

APRIL 25

Monty Boyd Challenge

MAY 9

Tampa Bay Benefit Dinner

MAY 29

HS Graduation

LETTER PRESIDENT

from the

We are presently in the most exciting period in my 25 years of serving as President. I can’t recall a time when there was more passion and enthusiasm among our students, faculty, and parents. Several initiatives are underway that will propel us forward to meet the changing needs of our constituents while staying focused on our mission.

The name, Christian Home & Bible School, has served its purpose well for the past seventy years. I am extremely proud of our rich heritage and very grateful to the men and women who devoted their lives to helping us become what we are today. As we enter a new era in the world of Christian education and ministry, it was essential that we find a name that more accurately and effectively communicates who we are. The Board of Trustees has determined that the new name of our school will be Mount Dora Christian Academy.

This name describes where we are (Mount Dora), who we are (Christian), and what we do (Academy). It better represents our school and clarifies who we are to both current and prospective families.

The new Jerome B.Thompson Science Building and Samuels Student Center have changed the face of our campus. The classrooms and labs rival those of many colleges. Research studies have linked student achievement and behavior to physical building conditions and classroom size. That being the case, we are poised for a quantum leap. Initial feedback from the students and faculty is overwhelmingly positive; not just about this new building, but the direction in which our school is headed. We now have a unique opportunity to reintroduce ourselves to the community as a top academic destination for Christianminded families.

Equally important is our work at the Mount Dora Children’s Home. Since 1945, approximately two thousand children have lived in our dormitories, and countless others have been served through other programs. Because of societal changes, the need for this ministry has never been greater than now. Adapting to meet those changes, the Single Parents Opting for Christ (SPOC) program is presently serving seven mothers and their

fifteen children on campus. Our goal is to positively influence the lives of two generations (mother and children) at one time and break the cycle of poverty and abuse.

As we move ahead toward the next 70 years, I see the name Mount Dora Christian Academy becoming synonymous with cutting edge technology, championship athletics, and service to our community. I see a school that is pushing forward to meet the changing needs of its students while staying focused on its mission. I see a Children’s Home with the potential for greater growth to meet the social service needs of a wayward world. I see a place that has a positive, life-changing impact on the lives of women and children. I see the entire organization continuing to be that beacon of light that reaches out and leads children and families into a closer relationship with God. Yes, there are changes ahead. But, what will not change is our core mission; To Educate for Life and Eternity. Those words are more than just a slogan. They clearly and succinctly communicate what is most important here. I invite you to join us as we salute our past and embrace the future.

Dr. James Moore

Montgomery Benefit Dinner More than 200 guests attended our first benefit dinner of 2015 on January 29th in Montgomery, Alabama. CH&BS sponsors a series of benefit dinners each year throughout Florida and the Southeast. This year marks our fourth annual dinner in Montgomery.

Among the highlights of the event were short speeches by Sebastian Wagner, one of the boys who lives at the Children’s Home, and Bernice Kleckner, a mom in our Single Parent program.

Both Sebastian and Bernice shared how their lives have changed for the better since coming to the Mount Dora Children’s Home. Herman Hedgspeth, an elder at Vaughn Park Church of Christ in Montgomery, also spoke about his church’s decision to start financially supporting CH&BS following a recent visit to the campus.

If you live within driving range of one of the following cities, we encourage you to join us for one of our 2015 benefit dinners: Boyd Scholarship Dinner, Feb. 21, CH&BS campus

Southwest Florida Benefit Dinner, March 7, Port Charlotte Jacksonville Area Benefit Dinner, April 11, Jacksonville Tampa Bay Benefit Dinner, May 9, Tampa

Nashville Area Benefit Dinner, Aug. 29, Franklin Pensacola Area Benefit Dinner, TBA, Pensacola

We also welcome your help promoting these dinners at your local church or helping the cost by being an event sponsor. Learn more about how you can help promote a benefit dinner and support CH&BS by contacting Dave Hogan, Director of Church Relations, at 352-383-2155 Ext. 259, or dave.hogan@chbs.org.

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The Joy of Giving

DEVELOPMENT

Tim Deem - Vice President of Development Many of you went to your doctor or health clinic in the past few months to get a flu shot. For those getting up in years, it’s a smart measure to protect oneself from getting seriously ill during the winter. By injecting the influenza virus into the body, our defense system will build up antibodies and provide an immunity to several forms of the flu.

But there’s another strain of the flu of which we need to be wary. It can be far more deadly and has eternal consequences. It’s called, “affluenza,” and it can attack anyone – young or old.

Sadly, affluenza is rapidly spreading and is nearing epidemic proportions in many parts of the world. It’s one thing to be concerned with having the necessities of life and providing for one’s comfort and well-being. But it’s quite another to be so obsessed with accumulating possessions that we become self-centered materialists.

Children are extremely susceptible to affluenza if they’re not given the proper preventative care at an early age. Those who are focused on acquiring a great deal of wealth may show many of the same symptoms as those who live in abject poverty, including depression

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and anxiety. They often experience sadness, despair, and the feeling that something is missing from their lives. The insatiable quest for more money and possessions can lead to financial ruin, divorce, and the destruction of a family.

Fortunately, God has provided a cure for affluenza. His “prescription” can be found throughout the pages of the Bible. Like some kinds of medicine, it may not be easy to swallow, but it will always have the desired effect. The writer of Hebrews tells us; Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” Heb. 13:5. Now consider this; what on earth could we possibly possess that is more precious than the love of God and His promise of heaven?

Nothing. Peace, prosperity, and spiritual health can only be found through Him. To ensure a healthy life, spend time every day reading God’s word and talking with Him through prayer. Feed your heart and mind on the fruit of the word. There’s no better way to keep your affluenza vaccination up to date!

Learn how you can help children and families by contacting the Social Services office or the Development office at Christian Home & Bible School by calling 352-383-2155 or visit us on the web at chbs.org.

2014 Christmas Parties

hanks to many generous churches, organizations, and individuals, the children at Mount Dora Children’s Home enjoyed a truly merry Christmas. We appreciate everyone who remembered our residents this holiday season with both parties and personal gifts.

Churches that hosted parties or gave gifts included High Springs Church of Christ, OWLS of South Trail Church of Christ, San Jose Church of Christ, North Brevard Church of Christ, Northside (St. Petersburg) Church of Christ and Pleasant Grove Church of Christ.

Other organizations that helped make Christmas special for our kids included the Rotary Club of Mount Dora, Tavares Homeowners Association, the Tree of Life Motorcycle Ride, Brownie Troop 164 and the Church of Christ Motorcycle Riders.

Thanks everyone! You brought a smile and more to our young residents.

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Saving Today For A Better Tomorrow January 26, 2015 marked an inspirational moment for single parent, Bernice Kleckner and CH&BS’s SPOC program. A vital component of the SPOC program is to motivate the single parents to begin preparing themselves and their families for the future. Single parents are encouraged to begin a savings account with money from their income. The goal is to have enough money to begin comfortably supporting their family after they leave the program. As an added incentive,

CH&BS social services pledge that once a single parent has reached $1,000 in their savings account, they will match that $1,000 and deposit it into their account.

Bernice Kleckner became the first SPOC family to reach the $1,000 goal on January 26th. Congratulations to Bernice for making this important step toward her family’s future. Bernice serves as a great example and inspiration to our other families in the SPOC program.

Students Earn Special Honors Congratulations to eighth grader Jesiah Pierre and seventh grader Sebastian Wagner for their recent induction into the National Junior Beta Club, and tenth

grader Athena Wagner for her induction into National Senior Beta Club. Jesiah Pierre is the son of Marie Pierre, a Single Parent program participant. Sebastian Wagner is a resident in our Lugar Cottage. Athena Wagner is a resident in the Thompson House. They had to earn a 3.4 GPA, have exemplary behavior and complete eight hours of community service in order to be a member of the National Beta Club. Not only were Jesiah and Sebastian inducted in October but they decided to dedicate themselves to this great club and attend and compete in the annual Junior Beta Florida State Convention at the Walt Disney World Swan Hotel and Convention Center this past December. Jesiah competed in both spelling and songfest. Jesiah along with his fellow Junior Beta members placed third in songfest. Sebastian worked with sixth grader Karlee Steele to compete in t-shirt design and their design placed second! Club sponsor and media center specialist Anne Elenz states, “I am so proud of these two young men. They both have the willingness to serve and the drive to be leaders.”

Residents Enjoy a Day in Nature On January 24, 2015 the children and single parents were able to enjoy a pontoon boat ride down the St. John’s River. They left from the Hontoon Landing Marina in Deland. An anonymous donor made this trip possible and we are grateful for their interest in allowing our children to experience the rich history, breathtaking beauty, and wildlife of the St. John’s River. For most of the children this was the first opportunity to experience an outing down the river and observe wildlife up close. The children and staff had a wonderful experience and found the trip to be both educational and enjoyable.

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BETA CLUB HAPPENINGS The National Beta Club is the largest independent, non-profit, educational youth organization in America. For more than 80 years, it has strived to recognize students for their high academic achievement and encourage great character through leadership and service. CH&BS proudly boasts two National Beta Clubs, both Junior Beta for the sixth through eighth grade students and Senior Beta for the ninth through twelfth grade students. This year Junior Beta proudly inducted 15 new members into its club. Junior Beta has a total of 39 members.

Senior Beta was pleased to induct 33 new members into its club. There are a total of 62 members in Senior Beta.

Throughout the school year the Junior and Senior Beta clubs orchestrate and participate in various service projects and have the opportunity to attend and compete in a myriad of academic and artistic competitions at both the state and national levels. This year both Junior and Senior Beta members attended their state conventions. Thanks to Anne Elenz, Junior Beta Sponsor, and Diana Grubbs, Senior Beta Sponsor, for their time and dedication to these outstanding student clubs.

On December 1st and 2nd, 28 Junior Beta members from CH&BS joined 1,500 fourth through eighth grade students from throughout Florida at the Swan Resort in Orlando for this year’s Florida State Convention. The convention was led by Junior Beta State President and CH&BS ninth grader, Emily Leto. Students participated in competitions such as songfest, talent, recycled art, photography, t-shirt design, sketching, spelling, math, and

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quiz bowl. They were also entertained with inspirational speeches from students and guest speaker Ted Weise. The students enjoyed their incredible experience, placing second in t-shirt design, third in songfest, and fourth in Book Battle.

Congratulations to Emily Leto, Hannah Leto, Hailie Amrhein, Megan Wright, Georgea Serwe, Shelby Muma, Avery Moser, Karlee Steele, Avery Davis, Bregan Shore, Danielle Willets, Morgan Darrow, Morgan Kupchick, Johanna Vilarson, Daniella Palacios, Sam Brown, Will Brown, Paxton Ellison, Sebastian Wagner, Jesiah Pierre, Daniel Merklinger, Sam Lee, Dan Abbate, Kessler Welter, Landon Dotson, Garrett Caropreso, Cole Kainz, and Jackson Bradley for proudly representing CH&BS! On January 16th and 17th the CH&BS Senior Beta club was delighted to return to the Senior Beta Florida State Convention at the Florida Hotel and Convention Center in Orlando after a six year absence. Eight members of Senior Beta joined 600 ninth through twelfth grade students from throughout Florida to compete artistically and academically, connect with other student leaders from Florida, and be inspired. Our students competed in photography, oratory, character skit, stitchery, sketching, math, agriculture, spelling, and wreath. Congratulations to Lauren Abbate, second in wreath, Gretchen Wiemer, second in black and white still photography, Emily Bradley, second in stitchery, Emily Reising, third in digitally enhanced photography, and Emily Leto, Emily Bradley, Emily Reising, Grethchen Wiemer, Lauren Abbate, Danielle Christopher, Christian Abbate and Owen Conner, second in character skit.

ELEM EN TA RY

SERVICE

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”

-I Peter 4:10

K-Kids

Our youngest service organization on campus, K-Kids Club, recently visited Waterman Village to entertain its residents with Christmas carols and present them with hand-made God’s

Eye ornaments. They have also partnered with The Way/Key Club and collected over 600 socks for the homeless in their “Socks for the Savior” campaign.

Second Graders Inspired by a real life story, the second graders set out to earn $126, enough to buy a sheep for a less fortunate family half a world away. It all began with a simple picture and story found in their National Geographic reading series. The second grade class learned how important a small farm animal can be to some of the poorest families of the world.

This motivated the students to ask what they could do to help the poor and suffering children of the world. Second grade teacher Denita Snider explained, “We decided to try to raise enough money to purchase a sheep for a family in need. The students were then instructed to go home and discuss with their parents ways that they could each earn five dollars. We stressed to them that they needed to EARN the money, not just ask mom and dad for it. They each brought in a list of the ways they were going to earn their five dollars over a two week period.” Students proceeded to sweep floors, clean windows, help with dinner, and do laundry to

earn the money needed for the sheep. When the two weeks were up the students had surpassed their goal, earning $301! Zachary Rudd was our top student earner, raising $55 by doing extra chores at home, including scrubbing floors!

Memorial Scholarship Recepient Meghan Chapman is the recipient of the first annual Darrell Hullinger Memorial Scholarship. Meghan’s determined spirit and positive attitude made her a standout athlete and applicant. Meghan was born with Aniridia, a rare birth defect where one of her eyes did not fully develop in the womb. At the age of four, Meghan’s deformed eye hemorrhaged and had to be removed. She has never let her disability stop her from participating in the activities that she loves, including volleyball. Meghan confessed, “This game has helped to shape who I am

today. It has made the past four years full of priceless memories that I can take with me as I begin my next journey.”

The Darrell Hullinger Memorial Scholarship was created in honor of Darrell Hullinger, a long time member of the Lake County Volleyball Officials Association who passed away in August.

President Ron Richards said the members were impressed with Meghan’s background and ability to overcome her disability and grow through high school volleyball. This made her the right choice Emily for theLeto scholarship.

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HOM EC OM I NG 2 015 The crisp January air at Christian Home & Bible School was truly electrifying as students returned from their Christmas break to a week teeming with celebrations. Not only was it Homecoming, a tradition of spirit days, pep rallies, and welcoming our alumni back to their alma mater, but they would also be among the first to step foot into the state of the art Jerome B. Thompson Science Center and Samuels Student Center. It was truly a historic week at Christian Home & Bible School.

spirit day

Bulldog pride was evident throughout our campus as students, faculty, and staff of both the elementary and secondary schools participated in our Student Government Association Homecoming Spirit Days.

Comfort was the key for the first day back as the campus was filled with plush pjs and fuzzy slippers for Pajama Day. Students went all out in boots and patriotic colors for ‘Merica and Western Day. Finally, the campus was splashed in blue and white for Friday’s traditional Crazy Blue and White Day. Spirit Days are a fun way for our students, faculty, and staff to show their love for CH&BS and all that it stands for spiritually, academically, and athletically.

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snow day

CH&BS kicked off its Winter Wonderland themed Homecoming weekend with a snow day on Friday, January 9th for their preschool and elementary students.

The Student Government Association, run by middle and high school students, wanted to find a way to include the younger students in the fun of Homecoming week when the idea of a snow day hit. Numerous bake sales and fundraisers later, the SGA had raised enough money to blanket the elementary school with six tons of snow.

Beginning with the preschool classes, each class came out to enjoy their own snow day. The students, some of whom had never seen snow, had snow ball fights, built snow men, and even slid down the hill on plastic lunch trays.

Another tradition continued Friday night as this year’s Homecoming Court Representatives were honored and the new King and Queen were revealed. The freshman representatives were Jaycie Michael and Eric Seidelman. The sophomore representatives were Natalie Farinas and Erin Collins. The junior class was represented by Ja’Mia Walker and Jeremiah Pierre. Finally, the senior class was represented by Kiley Brock and Brock Michael, Kaylee Hayes and LJ Smith, and Peyton Parent and Chad Simmons. Seniors Ashton Davis and Matthew Conod were emcees for the evening, sharing our representative’s accomplishments and personal letters. Seniors Meghan Chapman and Hayden Welter were ushers for the event, presenting each of the court members with a corsage and boutonniere.

Ultimately, last year’s Homecoming King and Queen, Zachary Brock and Christina McKinney returned to crown our new King and Queen. Congratulations to Chad Simmons and Peyton Parent for being crowned Christian Home & Bible School’s 2015 Homecoming King and Queen.

H A L L

O F

FA M E

I N D U C T I O N S

History continued to be made throughout this year’s Homecoming celebrations as Christian Home & Bible School inducted seven new members into the Sports Hall of Fame. Every five years, Christian Home & Bible School honors individuals who have made lasting contributions to the athletic program. These men and women inspire each of us. With their hard work and dedication they have each given us moments to remember. For this we honor them with a commemorative plaque, a lifetime all sports pass and their name upon our Wall of Fame in the Brackett gymnasium. We congratulate each of this year’s inductees. Class of 2003 graduate Tommy Bardwell was inducted for his accomplishments in both baseball and cross country. Class of 2007 graduate Spenser Cantrell was honored as one of the school’s most decorated athletes in basketball, softball, and volleyball. Class of 2008 graduate Chris Pruitt was selected for his accolades in both cross country and track and field. Class of 2001 graduate Matt Pruitt was inducted for his achievements in cross country and track and field. Benny Hunton was honored for his meritorious 49 years of service as the varsity baseball coach and mentor to hundreds of students.

Finally, Dr. James Moore and his wife Shirley were honored for their more than 25 years of dedication, leadership and selfless service. Christian Home & Bible School is forever indebted to each of these individuals for their commitment to the school and athletic program.

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Weight Room Receives Facelift The Bulldog football team set a goal to improve the weight room and make it a superb training facility for all of our athletes. Through fundraisers including a Lift-A-Thon, yard work projects, the sale of banners on the football field, and funds provided by the P-T-A, the team raised $12,000. Thanks to Sharon Simmons, the Michael family, and Gayle and Eric Seidelman for their help in the fundraising efforts. Many thanks to Chris Pearson, who helped design our weight room layout and was part of the team who constructed it, along with the help of Coach Kolby Tackett, Stive Colas, and Phil Barnes. Fundraising efforts will continue as the Bulldogs strive to create a state-of-the-art training facility for all of our athletes.

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Football Celebrates Undefeated Season The 2014 varsity football team provided Steven Conway had 35 tackles, 4 sacks a season filled with fantastic moments and was named 2nd Team All Conference of athleticism, teamwork, and sheer Defensive Lineman. Brian Bone had 434 will. With an 8-0 record, the Bulldogs return yards with 3 for touchdowns. He remained undefeated through their regular was named 2nd Team All Conference season. They went on to clench their Kick/Punt Returner. The offensive line back to back divisional title becoming had all five starters nominated for All the Orange Division Champions in the Conference with three who earned All Sunshine State Athletic Conference. The Conference Honors. Erin Collins was Bulldogs named 1st Team “Success is no accident.

It is hard finished 6th All Conference out of 31 work, perseverance, learning, studying, Offensive teams with sacrifice and most of all, love of what Lineman. Eric a 9-2 record you are doing or learning to do” - Pelé Seidelman and postseason.

Cole Welter This amazing were both named season was truly a team effort, but a few 2nd Team All Conference Offensive star players had achievements worth Linemen. Derek Collins was named the noting. LJ Smith had 1,454 all-purpose most outstanding Offensive Lineman and yards and 17 touchdowns. He was named Defensive Lineman for our team, and 2nd Team All Conference Wide Receiver. senior, John Grant was a two time team Quarterback Matt Conod was very close captain and true leader. to surpassing single season records for passing yards although he only started Many thanks to Coach Dennis Cardoso, in six games. He passed for 1,138 yards Coach Kolby Tackett and all who made and 19 touchdowns. Chad Simmons this season one to truly remember! had 93 tackles, 5.5 sacks and was named 2nd Team All Conference Line Backer.

Racing With Heart Ask any of her eighth grade friends and they will tell you to not be fooled by her small, sweet, blond appearance. Once she laces up her running shoes, she is a beast. MDB eighth grader Rebecca Clark has run her way into 1st place finishes in 6 of the 9 races she entered with the MDB cross country team this season. Rebecca is the current LakeSumter County Champion, the current 1A District 6 Champion, and the current 1A Region 2 Champion. Rebecca was one of 184 varsity girls to qualify for and compete in the 2014 FHSAA State Cross Country meet and performed incredibly. Rebecca stayed with the lead pack throughout the 3.1 mile course then just after the two mile

Our own super star coach Steven Hayes was recently honored at his alma mater, Greater Atlanta Christian School, by being inducted into the Spartan Hall of Fame. The honorees were selected based upon their athletic accomplishments, exhibited character and leadership, and their overall contribution to sports.

Coach Hayes (GACS Class of 1987) led the Spartans to a state runner-up finish in baseball. He went on to play four years of baseball at Faulkner University.

Congratulations Coach Hayes on receiving this honor!

mark, the top three girls broke away from the pack. With 400 meters left they emerged from the woods with Rebecca in third by 50 meters. She stayed focused on the finish line and overtook the second place runner with only a few meters left in the race.

Rebecca finished with a time of 18:37, just ten seconds behind senior Sarah Camdiano of Evangelical Christian and three seconds ahead of junior, Shelby Smith of Holy Trinity to clench the runner-up state title.

Rebecca continues to amaze with her drive and passion for running, recently coming in second place at the Mount Dora Half Marathon and donating her $100 winnings to the building of our new MDB track!

Sixth grade boys basketball had a fantastic season! Winning the Sixth Grade Division Championship in the Central Florida Middle School Basketball League was just one of the highlights!

Thanks to Coach Stephanie Lowry, Coach John Dotson and all of those who helped this season.

Records are made for breaking and varsity basketball player LJ Smith did just that in this year’s Homecoming basketball game against Orlando Victory Christian. The senior scored 55 points in the 80-36 victory to break the 52 point record set on February 11, 1972

by Rusty McCain (MDB class of 1972). McCain’s record had stood for over 40 years. McCain came to speak with the varsity players and congratulate LJ on his record breaking performance.

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FALL FESTIVAL

The 2014 P-T-A Fall Festival was a huge success! Parents, students, teachers ,and staff came together to create a great home town Fall Festival complete with pony rides, dunk tanks, cake walks, face painting, and many other great activities. A silent auction was set up on the stage with over 200 items including a grill, bike, fire pit, jewelry, and much, much more. The lucky draw baskets returned to everyone’s delight with chances to win

baskets filled with everything from gift cards to baking goods.

This year vender booths were added and were a great way to connect with our community. Everyone who came had a great time and walked away with some fantastic goodies. Thanks to our tireless volunteers, the Fall Festival raised $13,730 for the P-T-A!

WELCOME NEW TEACHERS Sarah Weaver

Sarah Weaver is a first year teacher, who is teaching seventh grade accelerated English, ninth grade English, as well as two elective courses, sixth grade study skills and eighth grade speech. She is also the assistant JV softball coach. Sarah has a degree in Marketing and Communications from the University of South Florida and is currently in grad school at the University of Central Florida studying Educational Leadership. “I’m so honored to have been given the opportunity to work at Mount Dora Bible and get to know all of the amazing and talented students and staff! I hope to inspire, motivate and challenge my students to be their very best!!” exclaims Sarah.

Kawai Mullen

Kawai Mullen joined our CH&BS faculty after teaching in Early Childhood Education for the past ten years. She has a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education and is teaching kindergarten. Kawai shared, ”I am so humbled to have the opportunity to teach kindergarten at CH&BS. I am most excited about growing as a teacher here at CH&BS while learning through the challenges and celebrating even the smallest accomplishments. I always think to myself that even the youngest minds can make a huge difference as they are teaching me something new everyday.”

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VETERANS DAY

Each year Veterans Day is an event to remember and this year was no exception. CH&BS invited our local veterans to participate in a very special Veterans Day parade straight through campus. The street was lined with students, parents, faculty, staff, and community members dressed in their red, white, and blue waving

flags and greeting all of our veterans and special guests. Following the parade, everyone gathered in the gym for a program featuring speaker Congressman Daniel Webster. Thanks to the Student Government Association for organizing a fantastic event to honor our veterans.

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Art Appreciation

CH&BS is driven to provide its students access to the most comprehensive educational offerings right on campus. This year through the dedication of instructor Judy Langgood, CH&BS has been able to begin offering Art 101: Art Appreciation, a dual enrollment opportunity where students can earn both high school and college credit without leaving campus. This addition enriches the course opportunities for the high school students, shortens the time needed to obtain a college degree, and last but certainly not least, saves money students and parents must invest into a college degree.

Art Appreciation is a three credit hour course which fulfills a college-level Humanities requirement. Judy Langgood, who has her Bachelor of Fine Arts and Master of Science degree in art education, is teaching this course as an adjunct professor through Harding University.

The students are studying the history, aesthetic, cultural, and social connections between man’s

need to make art and its subsequent influence on the development of society by looking at painting, architecture and sculpture throughout the ages. Through the very beginnings of man’s art making, early cave paintings and stone circles to monumental Gothic cathedrals, Renaissance masters, Impressionists and concluding with the current wave of Postmodernists; the class looks at WHAT art is, WHY man makes art, and HOW to discern what makes art good and worthy of our attention. “I love teaching this class! It has a great group of energetic, hardworking, open-minded students. I can’t wait to teach this class again next year—it has been a joy to share my love of art history with our students; it is an old and very dear ‘friend’ that continues to inform, clarify and make connections between what students learn in history, science, math, and Bible. It is the “A” that turns STEM education into STEAM Education!” Langgood exclaimed.

Production Team Named NFHS Select School CH&BS TV Production class earned distinction as one of the best. Led and taught by Doug Horton, students learn camera, audio, and editing fundamentals and put their lessons into action producing class and school videos, a morning show aired over the campus network, and live streaming of various school functions and activities such as varsity sporting events, elementary programs, school wide events, and preschool, elementary, and secondary graduations.

They were recently selected as a NFHS Select school. The class was selected for this honor based upon their demonstration of excellence in broadcasting. As an NFHS Select school the program is eligible to assist the NFHS Network in post-season coverage and generate additional funds for the program and school. Congratulations to Mr. Horton, Parker Sexton, Garrett Ward, Aijalon Carrasco, Matthew Ortman, and George Chen for receiving this honor!

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The

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Snow Queen

he stage was set, the auditorium draped in wintery white, and the instructions were given as Director Cheryl Abbate stood center stage encouraging the audience to “Shout!

Cheer! Boo! Clap! But most importantly, beware of the trolls!!”

Thus began the MDB Fine Arts Production of The Snow Queen

by Ron Nichols. The play was adapted from the original fairytale written by Hans Christian Anderson. It is a tale of the power of love, friendship, and a pure heart told by a wise old troll portrayed by sophomore Jessica Trentham. Gerda, played by eighth grader Ava Bixby, sets out on a magical quest to save her best friend, Kai, played by sixth grader, Dan Abbate, from sophomore Paloma DeLeon as the Evil Snow Queen. Along her journey, Gerda is helped by a plethora of both comical and mystical characters, including an endearingly funny crow portrayed by Sebastian DeLeon, a loyal reindeer played by Melody Coe, three blundering soldiers played by Christian Abbate, Owen Conner, and Garrett Ward, a perfectly polite royal couple portrayed by McKenzie Carpenter and Kyle Scarberry, a bossy robber woman played by Athena Wagner, a lonely sorceress played by Emily Reising, a kooky Lap woman played by Amelia White, and

finally, a mystical soothsayer portrayed by Emily Leto. The true ensemble cast was rounded out by Kayley Klein and Shelby Muma as two of the young mischievous trolls, Elizabeth Butkins as the wise and loving grandmother, Avery Moser as the proper Tame Crow, Chyanne Thompson as the spoiled robber child, and Mary Abbate as the adorable penguin.

MDB’s production of The Snow Queen was a magical interactive experience for its audience. Actors and actresses took the story from the stage to the audience asking for direction, opinion and help. Audiences delighted in reminding Gerda why she was on her journey and giving the final verdict to release Gerda and Kai to the Snow Queen. The story came to life through the seamless help of stage manager Lauren Abbate, make-up artists Danielle Christopher and Emily Reising, lighting by Tucker Workman and Deven Osceola, sound direction by Gretchen Wiemer, and house management by Molly Elenz.

The cast and crew were even wished the best of luck by the author, Ron Nichols, all the way from Ireland via Facebook!

Thanks to all who help support not only this production but all fine arts offerings at MDB.

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BUILDING DEDICATION GRAND OPENING OF JEROME B. THOMPSON SCIENCE CENTER AND SAMUELS STUDENT CENTER For 70 years, CH&BS has provided a Christian environment where students are supported and inspired to grow and learn.

This February 6th, the founding men and women of CH&BS were surely smiling down upon the dream that they had brought to life as it embarked on its next 70 year journey. CH&BS marked the beginning of that journey with the dedication and open house for the Jerome B. Thompson Science Center and Samuels Student Center and the introduction of a new name and logo, Mount Dora Christian Academy.

The celebration took place in front of the grand new science building at 2 pm on Friday, February 6th. It was a ceremony fitting such a momentous occasion including a prayer led by VP

of Development Mr. Tim Deem, stories of the past and hopes for the future told by Headmaster and Secondary Principal Dr. Brad Moser and President Dr. James Moore. Commemorative speeches were shared by many community leaders including; Congressman Daniel Webster, Lake County Commissioner District 4 Leslie Campione, Mount Dora Mayor Cathy Hoechst, and Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Rob English. Our Board of Directors was represented in speech

by Mr. Dennis Stults and Deby Samuels spoke representing the Samuels family. Following speeches was a ribbon cutting ceremony and guests were invited into the building for tours and refreshments.

CAMPUS SWELLS WITH EXCITEMENT AS FACILITIES OPEN TO STUDENTS While we remain grounded in our rich history, we continue to reach toward an even brighter future. The light of that future shines bright with the recent grand opening of the new Jerome B. Thompson Science Center and Samuels Student Center. The campus is buzzing with excitement with the completion of the $2.8 million expansion to the science building and the addition of the $350,000 student center.

The Jerome B. Thompson Science Center was named for a renowned chemist and inventor whose wife, Dorothy, donated $2.8 million in honor of her late husband. The science center is a 15,000 square foot facility with six classrooms. The science teachers played an integral part in the state of the art design and equipment found in the new facility. The stimulating environment inspires students to think outside the box and safely enjoy learning and discovering together.

The Samuels Student Center will serve as a community gathering spot for our students, faculty, staff and parents. With

a bistro style eatery offering light bites and beverages to the Doghouse filled with school spirit wear, the relaxed atmosphere encourages students to stop in to study, socialize, hold meetings, or events. The Samuels Student center was made possible by the $350,000 donation made by Mr. and Mrs. Sam and Helen Samuels.

As the first set of students entered the building in January, expressions of wonderment and smiles of anticipation filled their faces. This building not only represents a great improvement to our 70 acre campus, it represents opportunity, community, and inspiration for our present and future students, faculty and staff.

This building is just the beginning for CH&BS as we blaze the trail to take our school boldly into the future. The next campus improvements include a restroom and concession building expected to be finished before the 2015 football season, and plans to build an athletic complex to include a six lane track, artificial turf football field, bleachers, and tennis courts.

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Born in a rural area of California, she was the next to the youngest of six children. Sadly, when Janetta was just three years old, her mother ran off and abandoned them in a rundown old house. The police discovered the kids and placed them in protective care. The two oldest were sent to live with their father, and the four youngest were sent to an orphanage. A short time later, a local paper ran a story about them. Providentially, two men who were involved in the founding of CH&BS were in California and saw that story. Orvel Boyd and Alden Norton were touched by the plight of the kids and petitioned the court for custody. Good fortune and God’s leading hand led the Judge to grant it to them. After a train trip across the country, they arrived in Mount Dora.

photo on the left. Jan keeps in contact with some of the other children from those early days, including Judy Hendrix and Dan Slaughter.

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Leonard (also known as Johnny), Jesse, Jan, and Ruby were welcomed with open arms into their new home. Here they found a safe and stable place to live. Ruby was placed in a foster home and later adopted by the Van Dyke family. She was the first child adopted through CH&BS. Johnny was sent to the Sunland Training Center in Gainesville, FL so he could receive help with his learning disabilities. Jesse and Jan continued to live at the Home through the 1950’s. Jan graduated in 1961 with eight other classmates, including Jack McDonald. That’s her and Jack in the

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any people ask, “Which came first – the Children’s Home or the School?” The answer is; they were started at the same time back in 1945. In that first year, there were fifty-five students in the K-12 school and eight children in the home. Of those eight, four were from the same family. Janetta Laidlaw Phillippi was one of those four.

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Jan now lives in Jacksonville and is married to Jerry Phillippi.

Jesse also lives in the Jacksonville area where he is retired. Ruby and her husband, Don Hornbeak, reside in Ocklawaha, FL. Johnny passed away several years ago, but the three other siblings get together on occasion and reminisce about their days in Mount Dora. While at Homecoming and a tour of the new Thompson Science building last month, Jan was asked about her memories of those days in the Home. She remarked, “Mount Dora will always be a special place for my brothers and sister and me. We were so blessed to have Christian people and families who cared for us. I can’t imagine what would have happened to us if we had not come here.”

Now 70 years later, the original mission of caring for children lives on in Mount Dora. Since 1945, over 1,700 children have lived in the dorms, and many others have been fostered or adopted. To better meet the needs of a changing world, our program today encompasses single mothers and their children. What hasn’t changed is our core profession of faith; believing that each child is a gift from God.

APRIL 25, 2015 5K & Kids Fun Run

301 Mo

Saturday, April 25 8:00 am 5K 9:15 am Kid’s Run

Monty Boyd was affectionately known to many as “Coach”. A former coach at MDB, Boyd made a significant impact on so many athletes. Boyd graduated For more information or from CH&BS in 1969 and was an all-state basketball player. In the fall of to register visit our website 2010 he was diagnosed with dermatomyositis, a disease that causes inflation of the muscles and skin. After a valiant fight to the finish, he passed away on montyboydchallenge.org October 11, 2013. If you would like to contribute to the Monty Boyd Track Fund, your contribution will make a difference to future athetes of CH&BS and will honor the memory of “Coach”.

ALUMNI NEWS SPOTLIGHT Homecoming Weekend This year’s homecoming welcomed back our esteemed alumni with a weekend filled with engaging activities designed to both reunite them with their former classmates and reintroduce them to their alma mater and the exciting things happening on campus. Their weekend began Friday afternoon with a sneak peek tour of the new Jerome B. Thompson Science Center followed by an Alumni Welcome held in the new Samuels Student Center. Alumni were then invited to the gym for our Sports Hall of Fame Inductions, Homecoming Ceremony, and finally a victorious and record breaking varsity basketball game versus Orlando Victory Christian.

Saturday’s activities were kicked off with the Alumni Golf Tournament and a shopping excursion to downtown Mount Dora. The evening brought a free encore presentation by the MDB Fine Arts Department of The Snow Queen. Finally, alumni were invited to worship with a local congregation Sunday morning.

Doug Horton, Jeff Bugg, Ken Wilson, Scott Monn

Wayne Ayers, Judith Roney and Jan Phillippi Imagine Magazine Winter 2015 | 19

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Memorial & Honor Gifts October 23, 2014 - February 3, 2015

MEMORIALS

Earl Adamson Mrs. Ruth Ann Adamson

Hazel Gleaton Chamlee Nathan Hayes Mr. and Mrs. Wyman Clark Mr. and Mrs. Peek Hames

Ray Crank Mr. and Mrs. Rick Beger Ralph Adrian Jean Carlin Mr. and Mrs. Steven Blanchette Mrs. Mrs. Helen Coniglio Mrs. Sandra Dougherty Ann Andrews Ms. Mary K. Essary Mrs. Virginia S. Elliott Mr. and Mrs. Bruce A. Peterson Mrs. Melba Meriwether Russ Noyes Roofing Inc. Ms. Haylee Slaughter Mr. and Mrs. Mac Selvidge Ms. Carol E. Vincent John Andrews Ms. Mildred Allaway Grace Cumings Mr. and Mrs. Wyman Clark Community Foundation Mary Sue Collins Mr. and Mrs. James W. Jack Davis Dempsey Mr. and Mrs. Wyman Clark Ms. Martha Hall Ms. Dorothy C. Harbin Detjen Mr. and Mrs. Hershel Johnson Joseph Mr. and Mrs. Fred Bowman Patricia Jo Karr Hilda J. Downie Mr. and Mrs. Charles Killian Ms. Frank M. Goad, Jr. Mr. Willard W. Mann Mrs. Sandy Hahn Lavern and Betty Morris Mr. and Mrs. William Haislip Mr. and Mrs. Billie J. Queen and Mrs. Dave Hollenbeck Mr. and Mrs. Everett C. Smith Mr. Mr. Jeffrey Kilper Mr. and Mrs. Jack D. White Mr. and Mrs. Randy Kilper Krista Lause Alidel Naomi Benjamin Ms. Mr. and Mrs. Vic Lombardo Mr. and Mrs. David Badger Mr. and Mrs. Charles V. Lorentz Mr. and Mrs. Patrick J. MacDonald Ann Bishoff Mr. James Milner Margaret Schoen Nathaniel and Sandra Putney Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Worthy Roland Boatright Mr. and Mrs. Robert Sell Bea Dickinson Mr. and Mrs. Everett Harwood Monty Boyd Mrs. Mildred Boyd Phillip Gage Mr. and Mrs. Philip Lukas Mr. and Mrs. Enzo Cerra Mrs. Melba Meriwether Mrs. Lynn Cunningham

Yvonne Kelly Mr. and Mrs. Wyman Clark

Maitlyn Haynes Otis “Bob” Knuckles Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Brown Mrs. Marie Shockley

Mae Moreland Wesley Rutherford Mr. and Mrs. Paul T. Breakfield Mrs. Ruth Ann Adamson

Herbert Daniel (Pete) Morris Ms. Mildred Allaway Mr. and Mrs. Wyman Clark Bill Heartsfield Charles Lake Mary Sue Collins Mr. and Mrs.Wilton D.Thompson Mr. and Mrs.Wilton D.Thompson Mr. and Mrs. JamesW. Dempsey Ms. Martha Hall Jean Humphries Henry A. L. & Naomi Lankford Ms. Dorothy C. Harbin Mr. and Mrs. Alan Boyd Mr. Lyle Lankford Mr. and Mrs. Hershel Johnson Mr. and Mrs. James A. Byrd Patricia Jo Karr Mr. and Mrs. Bryan L. Clark J. M. Lee Mr. and Mrs. Charles Killian Ms. Judy Haley Mrs. Frances S. Langdon Mr. and Mrs. Billie J. Queen Mr. and Mrs. Marvin F. Hough Mr. and Mrs. Everett C. Smith Mr. and Mrs. Jim M. Rittenour Shirley Lenkerd Mr. and Mrs. Jack D. White Mrs. Margaret Walker Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Lenkerd Martha Moss Misty Herring Robert Lichtenberger Mr. and Mrs. Jack McDonald Mr. and Mrs. William R. Ms. Elizabeth A. Langley Hendricks Ed and Edna Nelson Jerry Liddick Mr. and Mrs. John Symonds Helen Hopkins Mr. and Mrs. Joe H. Craig Mr. Harold Hopkins Ms. Evelyn Gehrig Belle Noe Mr. and Mrs. Everett Harwood Ms. Judith Evans Jim Houck Mr. and Mrs. Nicholas D. Faryna Mr. John Houck Delia Loupee M & J Groves Mr. and Mrs. Wilton D. Mrs. Thelma Justiss Col. Donna L. O’Harren Thompson Mrs. Marie Shockley Stella Maitland Ms. Martha E. Turi Clyde Hubbs Mr. L. B. Vocelle Mrs. Gertrude Turner Mr. and Mrs. Joseph UmatillaCitrusGrowersAssociation McReynolds Roy Martin Mr. and Mrs. John Westervelt Mrs. Velma Jerkins Mr. and Mrs. Dempsey White Evelyn T. Hughes Mr. and Mrs. Wyman Clark Marge Mawhir Paul Noe Mrs. Velma Jerkins Mrs. Marie Shockley Wendell F. Husebo Mrs. Gertrude Turner Mr. and Mrs. Neil J. Fischer Dan McClure Mr. and Mrs. Nick Kramarczuk Mr. and Mrs. Sidney R. Claude B. Palmer Ms. Ann M. Maland McClure Mr. William H. King Mr. and Mrs. Jack McDonald Mr. and Mrs. Kent Means Wayne & Linda Means Virginia M. Palmer Mid Florida Eye Center Mr. and Mrs. Jack McDonald Mr. William H. King Orvel H. Boyd Curtis & Vashti Gardner Ms. Barbara Perkey-Johnson Mrs. Mildred Boyd Mr. and Mrs. Curtis Gardner Mr. J. Stephen Pullum Sam Meredith Sue Passafiume Mrs. Melba Meriwether Mr. and Mrs. Chuck Sellars Ms. Helen M. Meredith Mr. and Mrs. Russ Passafiume Morris Gaskins Swiderski Enterprises Katie Breakfield James R. Meriwether William D. Passafiume Mr. and Mrs. Paul T. Breakfield Mr. and Mrs. James Cummings Mr. Robert Tison Mr. William D. Andrews Mr. and Mrs. Russ Passafiume Gail Goff Kennedee Jackson Mrs. Mildred Boyd Paul T. Breakfield, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. David Badger Mrs. Virginia S. Elliott Shirley Kennedy Pearce Mr. and Mrs. Paul T. Breakfield Mr. Leslie Goff Mrs. Bette Houck Ms. Martha Griffin Joe Goode Erma Jefferson Ms. Nancy T. Jones Mr. and Mrs. Richard H. Charlie Brewer Mrs. Velma Jerkins Mr. Wayne Anderson Mrs. Melba Meriwether Hamlen Mrs. Ruth Christy Mrs. Gertrude Turner Mr. and Mrs. Don Mitchell Joseph F. Dicks Sherry A. Grinstead Mr. and Mrs. John Williams, Jr. Adrian Merle Pewett Mr. and Mrs. Jerry B. Escue Lawrence A. Jefferson Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Myatt Mr. and Mrs. Ronald S. Sapp Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Byrd Mrs. Gertrude Turner Charlotte Fulford Merrell Bobby Hannon Mr. and Mrs. Bob Faneuf Gordon Phillips Rufus Canterberry Lois Pearce Jones Mrs. Imogene Phillips Mr. and Mrs. Robin B. Leonard Mrs. Bette Houck Mr. and Mrs. Wyman Clark Dr. Bob Montgomery Ernst Hansen Mrs. Vanna D. Cameron Clarence Rutherford June Celsor June Saleeby Ms. Deborah Montgomery Mrs. Ruth Ann Adamson Mr. and Mrs. Michael A. O’Neal Mrs. June Craun Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Hogg Mr. and Mrs. David B. Yunger 20 | Imagine Magazine Winter 2015

Clara Scott Mr. William H. King Harold Scott Mr. William H. King Morris Scott Mr. William H. King

Mrs. Neil Willard Alma and Suzanne Maddox Mrs. Frances McManus Jackie Lynn Williams Mr. Jack Williams Mr. Neil Willard Covington Road Church of Christ Ray Wingate Mrs. Ruth Ann Adamson

Ralph & Richardine Shultz Mr. and Mrs. Curtis Gardner HONORS Glenn Shute Ron & Cindy Birdwell Mr. and Mrs. Norman W. Parrish Mr. Bill J. Newland Dr. Mary Rose Siers Mrs. LaRue Moss

Hank & Barb Borg Mrs. Becky Seiberlich

Allen G. Smajstrla Mrs. Linda Smajstrla

Joel B. Conley Mr. and Mrs. Charles Conley

Jillene Rose Smith Mr. and Mrs. Kevin J. Smith

Jon Evans Conley Mr. and Mrs. Charles Conley

Doyle Springer Mr. Eli H. Love

Luberna Gallaher Mrs. Jean Bracey

Earl Starling Mrs. Althea Starling

Margaret Caruthers Hubbs Mr. and Mrs. Joseph McReynolds

Lester & Ruth Starling Mr. and Mrs. Ben Vick

Carolyn Poh Mr. and Mrs. Robert Shaw

Jim Sullivan Mr. and Mrs. Michael Bogle Mr. and Mrs. Ben F. Carter Mr. and Mrs. John Cowart Mr. and Mrs. Charles Craig Mr. and Mrs. Joe H. Craig Ms. Carlanna Hamilton Ms. Norma S. Hannah Mr. Lester Hopwood Mr. and Mrs. Harold Lincks Mr. and Mrs. Jack McDonald Mr. and Mrs. Frank S. Oliver San Jose Church of Christ Mr. and Mrs. Charles Sullivan

Joe Wild The James W. Carr Family Charitable Fund

Angel Taylor Jodi Harrison Joan Thomas Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Lenkerd Cora Turbot Mr. and Mrs. Hilton Turbot Jeannette Wilkerson Mrs. Mary Neyman

Ruthie Wingate Mrs. Ruth Ann Adamson