Uniting the Golden Hawks
Fall 2020, Vol. 3, Issue 2
s of s a l C
Celebrates 50 Years
More Inside:
Alumni & Foundation Tee It Up on the Links! Details. p. 4-6
Do you know this linebacker? Details. p. 18
Nominate Alumni for Achievement Awards Details. p. 12-13
A message from the Alumni President Hello Alumni & Friends! While this summer didn’t allow us the opportunity to have the All School Reunion as initially planned, we want you all to know we are gearing up for an excellent reunion over the 4th of July weekend in the summer of 2021. If you would like to help plan or coordinate any of the events, or if you have donation items for a silent and live auction, please reach out to any of the Foundation or Association board members. We hope for a safe, successful event this summer! We want to take the time to thank all participants and sponsors who took part in the Mid-Prairie Foundation 4-Person Best Shot on Friday, July 3, 2020, at the Kalona Golf Course. The event benefited both the Mid-Prairie Foundation and the Alumni & Friends Association. We will likely continue this joint effort for years to come as fun was had by all who were involved! We are continually looking to expand and grow the association as well as content of the newsletter. If you have suggestions or ideas for future newsletters, please reach out to your class representative or one of the board members. In addition, the next Alumni & Friends Association Board meeting will be Monday, November 9, 2020. We appreciate your continued support of the Alumni & Friends Association!
Thank you, Whitni Patterson President – Alumni & Friends Association
2 Mid-Prairie Alumni News | Fall 2020
MID-PRAIRIE COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT
Mid-Prairie Community School District Board Marianne Schlabach, president Jeremy Pickard, vice president Gabrielle Payne Frederick ‘98, member Jeremy Gugel, member Mary Allred, member Jodi Meader, member Denise Chittick, member Mark Schneider, superintendent Jeff Swartzentruber, secretary Mid-Prairie Foundation Board Hayley Sieren Hershberger ‘11, president Gerry Beeler, vice president Junell Swantz Duwa ‘79, treasurer Georgia Gent, secretary Jody Larimer, member Christian Swartzentruber ‘11, member Kari Hobbs Harland ‘97, member Terry Mangold ‘65, member Phyllis Casper, member Doug Slaubaugh ‘63, member Jeremy Statler ‘90, member Luann Miller, member Mid-Prairie Alumni & Friends Association Board Claudia Shaver Bishop ‘67, member Pam Norman Green ‘68, member Chris Yotty Brenneman ‘72, member Nancy Reif Roth ‘89, member Greg Gent ‘82, member Heather Hervey Trimpe ‘98, secretary Angie Young Goodwin ‘90, vice president Sarah Griffith Huston ‘00, member Kayla Duwa ‘09, member Whitni Patterson ‘13, president Madeline Stutzman ‘12, member Kristi Strickland, Editor & Communications
Editor's Note: Following the print deadline, the large all school reunion was canceled. The golf tournament is still on schedule for Friday, July 2nd. The spring newsletter will have additional information.
2021 All School Reunion 61st Anniversary This is a tentative schedule with more details to be announced in the spring newsletter. Friday, July 2nd • Golf Tournament @ Kalona Golf Course • Banquet Meal & Auction (to benefit both the MP Foundation & Alumni Association) • Street Dance @ Kalona Brewing Company Saturday, July 3rd • Alumni & Friends Fun Run prior to Wellman parade • Kiddie & Main Parade - 9:30 a.m. & 10 a.m. • Featuring Alumni Award Recipients • Class Reunion Floats
• Slow-Pitch Softball Tourney @ Wellman North Park following the parade & lunch • Bags/Cornhole Tourney @ Wellman North Park following the parade & lunch • High School Tours - 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. • Live Music @ Wellman Band Shell - 6 p.m. • Fireworks at Dusk Sunday, July 4th • Class Reunions - as planned by each class
Calling All Volunteers! Do you like the activities listed above? Do you have auction items to donate? We’re looking for volunteers to make each event and the entire reunion event run smoothly! Contact board president, Whitni Patterson, whitni-patterson@uiowa.edu or communications editor, Kristi Strickland, kstrickland@mphawks.org to let them know where you’d like to help out. Fall 2020 | Mid-Prairie Alumni News 3
Mid-Prairie Foundation & Alumni Association Golf Tourney The Mid-Prairie Foundation and Alumni Association would like to thank all of the participants, volunteers, donors and those who contributed to making the entire day a success! Everyone’s efforts provided approximately $5,700 to split between the Foundation and Alumni Association. The Kalona Clubhouse buzzed with excitement the morning of Friday, July 3, as the participants registered and chatted with old classmates and fellow alumni and friends. Extras, like mulligans and lengths of string to bring you closer to the pin, were for sale to improve a team’s score. A 50-50 raffle was also up for grabs. Later on the course, hole six offered the purchase of Bag Tosses to earn a second tee shot. The steamy day didn’t stop the participants as the course was full with three teams per hole. Drinks were offered throughout the day by traveling beverage carts and everyone enjoyed lunch provided by Flamin’ Flips BBQ as they cruised by the clubhouse. Of course we want to congratulate team and individual winners. 1st Place - 42 Strabala Grounds Management Nate Strabala, Riley Hershberger, Lucas Troyer, Justin Strabala 2nd Place - 47 Steve Wertz, Jacque Wertz, Allyson Wertz, Max Mongrello 3rd Place - 50 Kalona Realty, Inc. Tina Hershberger, Clayton Hershberger, Brent Jehle, Jim Hauth Longest Drive Men 4 Mid-Prairie Alumni News | Fall 2020
Congratulations to the 1st place team, Strabala Grounds Management, with a winning score of 42. Justin Strabala ‘07, Riley Hershberger ‘05, Nate Strabala ‘05, Lucas Troyer ‘06.
Max Mongrello Longest Drive Women Jackie Yoder Longest Putt Jacque Wertz Closest to the Pin Women Jaimy Ellis Closest to the Pin Men Jim Cayton 50/50 Raffle - Terry Strabala, $332 This year’s winning prizes included meat bundles and MP apparel. Gold sponsorship team members each took home a sleeve of golf balls with the Mid-Prairie logo. Longest Drive, Putt and Closest to the pin each earned MP apparel. In the future, perhaps, a prize should go to the farthest traveled golfer. This year it would have been Terry TeBockhorst ‘62 coming
from Egan, Minnesota. Be sure to watch the next newsletter for details to sign up for next summer’s golf tourney. Thank you to our sponsors for making the day a success. Gold Sponsorships: Iowa Collision & Paint, LLC, Strabala Grounds Management, Kalona Tire, Thrapp Electric, Hart-Frederick Consultants PC, Eden Salon & Spa, Kalona Realty, Inc., City Construction, Statler Construction, Inc., Fisher Insurance Agency: A Division of Relion Insurance Solutions, Allen Mitchell CPAS, CBI Bank & Trust, M&M Family Farm. Silver Sponsorship: Duwa’s Quality Walls, Inc. and Jaimy Ellis Photography. Bronze Sponsorship: PSI and Hills Bank.
Fall 2020 | Mid-Prairie Alumni News 5
6 Mid-Prairie Alumni News | Fall 2020
Class Reunion Photos
50th Reunion for the Class of 1970
Drone photo by Abe Kos ‘09
Left to right: Dan Dickel, Patty Berg Kroemer, Norman Schrock, Norma Schrock, Ivan Slagle, Allen Schrock, Denny Yoder, Beverly Greiner Rutten, Melvin Bender, Shirley Goodwin Kos, Sue Young Slaughter, Harry Hale, Linda Potsander, Barbara Wade, Dixie Niffenegger Schlabaugh, Kenny Martin, Carolyn Goodlander Bennett, Tom Dayton, Terry Stumpf, Dixie Lynn Emmett, Charles Miksch, Jerry Kron, Dan Jirsa, Chris Duvall Lee, Cindy Statler Santlemann, Denise Ralston Dickel, Beryl Butterbaugh, Mike Forinash.
The class of 1970 celebrated its 50th reunion on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2020. The day began at Mid-Prairie with a time to honor and remember those in the class who are deceased. There are ten classmates out of 106 who have passed away: Dale Andrews, Neta Butterbaugh, Donna Fisher, Greg Karr, Steve Kindred, Miriam Hershberger Mast, Glenn Rowe, Bill Schauf, Bill Severt, Warren Yoder. Charlie Miksch opened the time welcoming everyone followed by class member, Pastor Jim Beranek, who shared a message “A Time to Remember, Marvel, and Give Thanks.” This set the tone for a wonderful day. The class provided an open mic for those present to fill in life stories or add to memories of the deceased. The event was also live over Zoom on the big screens for classmates to join who were unable to attend. Each of them shared some details of their lives. Margaret Huber Graham who lives in London was one who attended via Zoom. Next up was a tour given by Superintendent Mark Schneider who also provided details on the latest educational trends. For those interested, classmates gathered at the Kalona Coffee House mid-afternoon with former classmates who graduated from IMS. The evening activities began with a drone picture outside the home of Shirley Goodwin Kos and her husband Allen ‘69. The meal was also provided by the Kos family. Evening activities for the 30 classmates plus spouses centered on connecting and sharing memories. We hope to start annually meeting in 2021 at a place and date yet to be determined.
Fall 2020 | Mid-Prairie Alumni News 7
The University of Iowa College of Public Health
2020 Outstanding Alumni Award Published by University of Iowa with additions by Kristi Strickland
The University of Iowa College of Public Health is pleased to announce the recipients of the college’s 2020 Outstanding Alumni Awards: Kari Harland, who earned a Master of Public Health degree and a doctoral degree in epidemiology, and is now director of research operations in the Department of Emergency Medicine at the University of Iowa Carver College of Kari Hobbs Harland ‘97 Medicine and adjunct assistant professor with the Department of Epidemiology at the UI College of Public Health. This award recognizes College of Public Health alumni who have made distinguished contributions to the field of public health and demonstrated a strong interest and commitment to the mission, vision, and values of the college. Harland said, “I have been blessed to be surrounded by fabulous scientists who have been my mentors, co-workers and friends and I feel my receipt of this award is a reflection on how amazing the UI College of Public Health and UI Carver College of Medicine are in building collaborations and mentorships between scientists. The teams I have worked with throughout my career have made my ability to succeed so much easier!” College of Public Health alumni awards are presented in two categories: graduates within the past 8 Mid-Prairie Alumni News | Fall 2020
ten years who have achieved important and promising accomplishments and have exceptional potential for future success, and other alumni for accomplishments throughout their careers who have attained widespread recognition and respect for significant contributions in their field. Kari Harland, MPH, PhD, received a Master of Public Health degree in epidemiology in 2004 and a doctoral degree in epidemiology in 2010, both from the University of Iowa College of Public Health. In addition to director of research operations and adjunct assistant professor, she was additionally trained in the Department of Occupational and Environmental Health’s Heartland Center for Occupational and Health Safety as an Occupational Injury Prevention Fellow. As a supervisor and mentor to medical students, medical residents and graduate students, Harland teaches analytical approaches and methodologies connecting classroom learning to real-world work. Her guidance has led her graduate students to win numerous awards and research grants and have resulted in many publications. In 2018, she received the University of Iowa Supervisor of the Year Award. She is responsible for overseeing research across the entire Emergency Medicine department. She currently manages over 30 active research projects for faculty, medical fellows, medical residents, and students in pharmacy, medicine, and public health. Her strategic vision and ability to build a cohesive team has helped rapidly expand the department’s research capabilities, increasing its annual productivity by 350% over the last
five years. Harland’s own research focuses on improvement of rural health, intimate partner violence, and sexual assault prevention. She has published over 70 peer-reviewed papers, contributed to book chapters on domestic violence, and served as the principal or co-investigator for several NIH or CDC-funded grants. More specifically, Harland has coordinated research projects examining effective ways to assist women to leave relationships where they are harmed and studying effectiveness of screening for violence in the emergency department. However, her favorite project thus far stems from a childhood passion of being a lawyer after admiring and watching her mother work with many lawyers. The CDC-funded project has given her the opportunity to work with the University of Iowa College of Law. The project examines whether state laws requiring teen dating violence education has an effect on the violence reported in schools. “It allows me to not only study what laws are in place, but to examine if they have an effect on the
behaviors they wish to change,” she said. She has established an extensive network of collaborators across Iowa and leads education and mental health interventions for youth across the state. She is a core faculty member of the UI Injury Prevention Research Center and serves as the evaluator for the CDC-funded Rape Prevention Education program housed at the Iowa Department of Public Health. Harland said she really enjoys searching for the “Why and How?” when things happen. She likes to solve and answer questions, such as “Why do certain conditions/ diseases/social situations affect some more than others?” That’s just one step, but she desires to ask the next question, “How can we change how we currently educate, clinically treat patients or change our healthcare and social systems to improve the lives of the greater public?” She also enjoys the opportunity to learn from the collaborators she works with to solve these challenging questions especially when they’re outside her area of expertise. “These are never easy to answer and that is what is so exciting about my career--trying to find these answers allows me to collaborate with scientists outside my speciality of epidemiology and injury/violence prevention to continue to learn about inequities within our world,” Harland said. Harland also praises the Mid-Prairie district, noting that after attending her son’s freshman orientation, she recognized that many of the math and science teachers are women, which demonstrates to both young women and men the career possibilities and colleagues. “Seeing women in science and math roles has had a significant impact on my aspirations to be a scientist and to be proud of my love of math and science,” she said, “It’s great to have graduated from and continue to be a part of a district that sets such an example!
Harland manages data for research project
COVID-19
Kari Hobbs Harland ‘97 is putting her research skills to work in the very relevant and current project, “COVERED” which stands for COVID Evaluation of Risk in Emergency Departments. The goal is to estimate the occupational risk to emergency medicine physicians and nurses of contracting COVID-19 through their work and to identify high-risk situations, such as intubations, that may increase the risk to those on the healthcare front lines of COVID-19 pandemic. She serves as the Director of the Data Coordinating Center seeing to it that the collected data adequately answers the question at hand and is able to be answered at the end of the project term. The 20-week study began in May with data collection ending and analysis starting in November. The University of Iowa was chosen as a research site based on its participation in two large national research networks and having a National Institute of Health Institute for Clinical and Translational Science which pro-
vides software, RedCap, making the complexity and short time frame of the project possible. While this infectious disease project is not her specialty of epidemiology, that hasn’t stopped her from focusing on the bigger picture of working to improve the lives of emergency medicine colleagues throughout the country after seeing those affected in larger cities. She’s focusing on, “‘How can I help to keep them safe or study these impacts?’ -- It’s the Iowa way!” Harland said. COVERED is also unique in that not only does it collect data, but also includes nasal swabs and blood serum drawn every four weeks. The sampling addition has given her a much greater understanding of a different side of epidemiology she’s not seen before. “This project will help us to not only understand how this pandemic is affecting those on the healthcare front lines, but will help us to prepare for future infectious disease outbreaks. As the science around COVID-19 continues to change, we work diligently to apply it to our work in COVERED, but also to our personal lives and try to share our knowledge with those in our community as we unite to fight this pandemic together,” Harland said.
Fall 2020 | Mid-Prairie Alumni News 9
Permanent Art Collection features alumni artists Pieces of alumni remain in the hallways of the Mid-Prairie High School. On display are a variety of artwork projects from former art students. The Permanent Art Collection began five years by a grant given from the Fund for Academic Excellence. The Fund for Academic Excellence was created in 2016 by the Class of 1966 as part of their 50th anniversary celebration. The Fund gives opportunities to teachers and staff to apply for grants for innovative projects to benefit and broaden students’ educational opportunities. The Fine Arts Booster Club has also contributed to continue financial support of the project. Mid-Prairie High School art teacher, Dain Jeppson, said, “The permanent collection was started to help recognize students for their talents and hard work and hopefully inspire future students in Patricia Godinez ‘17 – Acrylic Painting the art room to create amazing pieces of art.” Currently there are 25 pieces of art on display and they range from a variety of genres some of which include acrylic painting, mixed media, photo transfer and several others. Any Mid-Prairie student in any grade can have their art selected for the collection. Below are the former students’ artwork on display. Mid-Prairie Art Wall of Fame 2017 Erin Campbell - Multimedia Tanner Allen – Acrylic Painting Naomi Frantz – Acrylic Painting Elijah Meader - Mixed Media Abby Frantz - Acrylic Painting Ruth Bautista – Photo Transfer Feza Matiyabo – Acrylic Painting Patricia Godinez – Acrylic Painting
Sierra Mathews ‘19 – Multimedia
2018 Sierra Mathews – Multimedia Erin Horesowsky – Acrylic Painting Blake Burnham – Multimedia Emma Slaubaugh – Pencil Drawing Ada Hulseberg – Permanent Maker Jayla Rediger – Watercolor Painting Marshall Teets – Acrylic Painting Cassidy Hershberger – Permanent Marker Derek Hesseltine – Acrylic Painting 2019 Shelby Zahradnek – Multimedia Gracie Lucas – Acrylic Painting Marina and Lilou Beachy - Multimedia Isaac Boucher - Multimedia
Jayla Rediger ‘18 – Watercolor Painting
2020 Ingrid Gingerich – Mixed Media Chelsea Craigmile – Acrylic Painting Emily Swartendruber – Mixed Media Elijah Meader ‘17 - Mixed Media 10 Mid-Prairie Alumni News | Fall 2020
Erin Horesowsky ‘18 – Acrylic Painting
Isaac Boucher ‘20 - Mixed Media
Feza Matiyabo ‘19 – Acrylic Painting
Marshall Teets ‘18 – Acrylic Painting
Tanner Allen ‘16 - Acrylic Painting
Abby Frantz ‘20 - Acrylic Painting
Ingrid Gingerich ‘20 – Mixed Media
Chelsea Craigmile ‘21 – Acrylic Painting
Ruth Bautista ‘17 – Photo Transfer
We Need YOU! Do you like to write? Take photos? We’d love to have you share your talents to spread the news about our alumni! Contact Kristi Strickland kstrickland@mphawks.org
Fall 2020 | Mid-Prairie Alumni News 11
Highlighting Mid-Prairie’s Finest
MP Alumni & Friend’s Association continues MP Foundation’s achievement recognition The Mid-Prairie Foundation has previously awarded several alumni, staff or benefactors for their roles and contributions to our school. Several recipients per year were honored and publicly recognized for their contributions, service and/or leadership. Their pictures were displayed at the high school for one year and their names are listed on a permanent plaque. To continue honoring alumni that have served and represented Mid-Prairie well, the Mid-Prairie Alumni & Friends Association will now organize the Alumni Achievement Awards & Recognition process. The Alumni Board and class representatives have expanded the categories for recognition to feature more deserving alumni for these honors. Please consider nominating alumni for their achievements. For nominations, fill out the form on p. 9 and return to Mid-Prairie Central Office, PO Box 150, Wellman; or fill out the form online - www.mphawksalumni.org; or email to kstrickland@mphawks.org. The nominations will be reviewed by a committee of board
members, class reps and teachers. The deadline to submit a nomination is February 1. The first six recipients will be selected in March and recognized in the spring alumni newsletter and at the Wellman 4th of July Parade during the weekend of the AllSchool Reunion. Once nominated, the individual will stay on the list for consideration each year. Previous winners: 2009: Warren Olson, Pat Anderson, John Orr, Doug Goschke, Tim Grady, Dan Dickel, Bill Marks, Nick Peck. 2010: Boyd & Wilma Emde, Robert Gaston, Willis Miller, Donald Randol, Paul Swank. 2011: Stan & Corrinne Barber, Rose Dillard Belk, Elsie Zook Blosser, Velma & Ferd Skola. 2012: Dwight & Junell Duwa, Don & Wilma Gingerich, Ken & Sue Kempf, Kenneth & Katheryn Kos.
2019: Steve Berger, Blake Hershberger, Jeremiah Gingerich, Don Showalter, Jessica Faselt, Steve Yotty. 2020: Doug Yotty, Brad Kinsinger, Lonnie Yoder, Dallas Duwa, Bill Niffenegger, Ryan Schlabaugh.
Alumni Achievement Award Categories ➤➤MPCSD Alumni Achievement Award
Given to alumni who have earned recognition for their achievements and attributions in their professional life. Criteria: • Demonstrates a high level of achievement in his/her field and makes significant contributions to that field. • Exhibits high moral character.
➤➤MPCSD Vocational Hall of Fame
Awarded to alumni with exceptional accomplishment in the area of vocational education while attending Mid-Prairie High School and/or have made an outstanding impact in their professional vocation. Criteria: • Significant contributions in a vocational area. • Received recognition for leadership or service in their vocational area while in high school. • Received recognition or honors in their vocational area after high school. • Makes significant contributions and has sought out leadership in their professional vocation.
➤➤MPCSD Community Impact Hall of Fame Awarded to alumni who should be rewarded for their service impact on the Mid-Prairie Community. Criteria: • Significant service contributions either while in school and/or post-high-school to the Mid-Prairie Community. • Service may be for any purpose. • Service may be in a non-compensated or a compensated capacity. Other considerations: • Outstanding character and leadership. • Exhibits high moral character. 12 Mid-Prairie Alumni News | Fall 2020
➤➤MPCSD Alumni Service Award
Given to alumni for specific and meritorious service to the MPCSD Alumni Association, or any other not-for-profit organization. Criteria: • Service must be for a not-for-profit organization in a non-compensated capacity. • Exhibits high moral character.
➤➤MPCSD Fine Arts Hall of Fame
Awarded to alumni with exceptional accomplishment in the fine arts while attending Mid-Prairie High School. Criteria: • Significant contributions in his/her fine arts area. • Conference honors and /or all-state recognition, or equivalent. • Superior ratings earned in competition. • Major roles in theater productions, solos, etc. Other considerations: • Successful participation in college and/or post-college. • Major roles in theater productions, solos, etc. after high school. • College scholarships in the fine arts disciplines.
➤➤MPCSD Athletic Hall of Fame
Awarded to alumni with exceptional accomplishment in athletics while attending Mid-Prairie High School. Criteria: • Statistical records and/or awards received. • All-conference, all-state and/or state championships earned. Other considerations: • Outstanding character and leadership. • Successful participation in college and/or professional athletics.
2021 Mid-Prairie Alumni Awards Nomination Form Name of person I would like considered for an award(s): His/Her graduation year (if known): His/Her address (if known): His/Her phone and email (if known): Select Desired Alumni Award Category:
Achievement
Service
Community Impact
Fine Arts
Athletics
Vocational
Description of qualifications (attach additional pages as necessary): (Note: a questionnaire will be sent to your nominee)
Name of person submitting the nomination: Address: City, State, Zip: Home phone: Cell phone: Email: All awards will be granted based on nominations, which can be submitted by mail (Mid-Prairie Central Office, PO Box 150, Wellman) or online at www.mphawksalumni.org or emailed to kstrickland@mphawks.org. Nominations will be reviewed and selected by the awards committee and approved by the Alumni & Friends Association Board. Questions: **Elected or appointed members of the Alumni & Friends Association Board are not eligible during their term of service. Fall 2020 | Mid-Prairie Alumni News 13
Alumni Report Laura Houseal Biggs Creswell, North Carolina
Name: Laura Houseal Biggs Graduation Year: 2003 Spouse: Joseph Biggs Wedding Date: Aug. 10, 2010 Children: J.M. 8 years old and Adaley 3 years old What have you been doing since you graduated from MP? I went 2003 MP Yearbook to college at East Carolina UniverLaura Houseal Biggs sity for my Bachelors and Masters Degrees in Family and Consumer Sciences Education. I taught Foods and Nutrition, Servsafe, Parenting and Child Development, and Early Childhood Education high school classes in Wilson and Edenton, North Carolina, for a total of 10 years. I also have been the University Supervisor of Family and Consumer Sciences Student Teachers with East Carolina University for three years. For my kids and the kids in our community, I contributed as a founding Board Member to the opening of Pocosin Innovative Charter. It’s a K-8 school here in Creswell, NC, where we live! It’s in its 2nd year and my son attends in the 2nd grade. What do you do now? I am in my third year as the Career and Technical Education - Career Development Coordinator at Columbia Early College High School. I will be teaching an online course with East Carolina University for their FCS program in the Spring, which is my newest adventure! What’s an accomplishment you’re proud of? Being a Christian, wife, mother, and educator. What did you enjoy about Mid-Prairie and the community? I enjoyed the small community unity, family-friendly school, the love and encouragement that was given to its students. Mid-Prairie schools which are made up of great teachers and staff are the reason I became a teacher and why I’m in year 13 of working in education.
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What’s a favorite school memory? All of it......I couldn’t pick one thing. The school spirit we had was amazing and I see it dwindling in high schools today that I have taught at. What are your future goals, hobbies or bucket list items? I want to just give my best to whomever I meet in a day’s time or work with so they feel like they matter to someone.
Alumni Report
Above Left: Zach Ulin ‘03, center, is one of the Mid-Prairie Football Broadcast crew which also includes Pat Cady, left, boys head soccer coach and Larry TeBockhorst ‘86. Above Right: Ulin received numerous awards for play-by-play, sports feature story and sportscast at the Iowa Broadcast News Awards Ceremony at the Pella Opera House in 2019.
Chris Kern ‘80, left, and Ulin ‘03 announce at the Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines during the Mid-Prairie girls most recent trip to the state basketball tournament in 2016. Alex Rath ‘16 is #13 for the Golden Hawks.
Ulin ‘03 announces the game at Busch Stadium in St. Louis between Mid-Prairie and Washington in June of 2018.
Zach Ulin
Washington, IA Name: Zach Ulin Graduation Year: 2003 What have you been doing since you graduated from MP? I have worked in radio since the end of my junior year at Mid-Prairie, June of 2002. My career started at that point at KCII Radio in Washington, Iowa and has included stops at the University of Iowa Student Radio Station KRUI, KWPC/KMCS Radio in Muscatine, Iowa, 2003 MP Yearbook Zach Ulin KNIA/KRLS Radio in Knoxville/Pella, Iowa, and WRPQ Radio in Baraboo, Wisconsin, before returning to KCII in August of 2015. What do you do now? I am the Senior Program Director for M&H Broadcasting (KCII’s ownership company). I help to manage on-air content for several radio stations across Iowa. Along with KCII in Washington, we have stations in Pella, Knoxville, Indianola, Perry, Jefferson, and Stuart. I am also the play-by-play broadcaster for Mid-Prairie athletics on KCII.
What’s an accomplishment you’re proud of? My work as a sports play-by-play broadcaster and on sports feature stories have received multiple state awards from the Iowa Broadcast News Association. What did you enjoy about Mid-Prairie and the community? EVERYTHING. The student-athletes work so hard at everything they participate in. They go the extra mile on the court, field, and in the classroom. They put in extra hours during late nights and early mornings to excel. It’s tremendous to see them be rewarded with success when that hard work pays off. They truly are great kids. I love working with the coaches and administration. They are great in giving me the help I need to cover the district’s athletic programs and happenings. The community itself is generous and features such an outpouring of genuine enthusiasm for the students and district. This takes on many forms, packed stands at a big game, loud crowds, along with hard-working boosters and volunteers. The Mid-Prairie community understands that it takes everyone to create an environment in which students can thrive and its members do everything they
can to provide that. What’s a favorite school memory? I enjoyed being on the football, basketball and golf teams. I also enjoyed spending time with our seminar group. What are your future goals, hobbies or bucket list items? I hope to continue broadcasting Mid-Prairie sports for many seasons to come with lots of highlights, wins, state tournaments and championships along the way. When I’m not working, I enjoy watching sports (Hawkeyes, Cubs, Bears, Bulls, Blackhawks and A’s). I recently ran my first 5K, enjoy golfing, and hope to compete in more races and fitness activities. Other Comments: I’m very appreciative and thankful to the Mid-Prairie community for allowing me to provide coverage of the Golden Hawks. Everyone goes out of their way to accommodate you and make you feel that you are a welcome part of the community. From interviews with student-athletes, to working with coaches and administrators to getting to know parents and community members through conversation at games, I am truly fortunate to be in the position I am in. I am a very proud alum. Thank you. All of you.
Fall 2020 | Mid-Prairie Alumni News 15
Alumni Report
Golden Hawk Highlights
LuAnn Godlove Ford
Cross Country teams advance to state
Wellman, Iowa
Name: LuAnn Godlove Ford Graduation Year: 1970 Spouse: Daniel S. Ford Wedding Date: July 3, 2003 Children: Havala C. Osdoba Schumacher, daughter; two step-children Grandchildren: 6 step-grandchildren
1970 MP Yearbook
LuAnn Godlove Ford
What have you been doing since you graduated from MP? Attended college 3+ years, became a medical secretary, moved to the west coast, moved back to Iowa 10 years later, worked for various doctors over the years, and a neuroscientist for 22 years at the University of Iowa. What do you do now? I am retired, trying to downsize, and update my old farmhouse. What’s an accomplishment you’re proud of? I did not give up when I had cancer - and I survived. I’m now 8 years post-surgery and doing fine. What did you enjoy about Mid-Prairie and the community? I have always enjoyed the smallness of the community. What’s a favorite school memory? Going to Washington, DC, with the band. What are your future goals, hobbies or bucket list items? We have a German Shepherd puppy that keeps us busy.
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The Mid-Prairie girls and boys cross country teams finished first and second respectively and both advanced to the State Meet. This is the fourth straight year the girls team advanced to state. The girls set two school records including the first time in program history that all seven varsity runners were individual qualifiers and their team score of 21 is a state meet qualifying record for the program. The Golden Hawks were led by meet champion Danielle Hostetler who took the title in a blistering time of 18:47. Other Mid-Prairie runners on the girls side included Sydney Yoder third, Jaden Yoder fourth, Mitzi Evans sixth, Abby Fleming seventh, Phoebe Shetler 12th, and Ana Fleming 15th. The Mid-Prairie boys moved on to state after a team runner-up finish with their score of 59 points. The Golden Hawks were led by Jamison Stutzman with his individual runner-up finish in a time of 16:46. Other Mid-Prairie runners included Nathan Wallington eighth, Lucas Bontrager ninth, Chandler Hershberger 10th, Mose Yoder 32nd, Daniel Rodgers 45th, and Sam Yoder 69th. This is Mid-Prairie’s first trip to state as a team since 2018. The class 2A state cross country meet will be held on Saturday, October 31st, at the Lakeside Municipal Golf Course in Fort Dodge.
Golden Hawk Highlights Elsa Schmidt wins 2019-20 Iowa Golden Owl Award Elsa Schmidt, Agricultural Educator and FFA Advisor at Mid-Prairie High School, was named the 2019-2020 Iowa Golden Owl Award Winner earning the coveted Golden Owl trophy and a $3,000 grand prize for her education endeavors. Mrs. Schmidt originally won the southeast district Golden Owl Award as an outstanding agriculture educator in January along with a $500 monetary prize. By winning the district award, she was eligible for the Iowa Ag Teacher of the Year award and was one of more than 250 agriculture educators vying for the grand prize until she was honored as the lone Iowa Agricultural Educator of the Year! Her dedication and passion to go the extra mile to
help her students were clear in these nominations. Brad Liggett, President of Agribusiness, Nationwide, who sponsored the award, said, “Farming is in our roots at Nationwide and we’re proud to recognize agricultural teachers for their dedication to educating the next generation of agricultural leaders. These talented teachers have a tremendous impact on the students and communities they serve. We’ve received
thousands of nominations over the years highlighting the impacts teachers make in their classrooms and communities. Those touching stories have inspired us to honor even more well deserving teachers. Congratulations to all the finalists and Mrs. Schmidt the 2019-2020 Iowa Golden Owl Award - Ag Educator of the Year.” Joshua Remington, Executive Director, Iowa FFA Foundation, said, “Many
educators put in extra hours above the contract – as agricultural educators the time invested in students, the hours mentoring, coaching and guiding outside the classroom may be as many as those inside the classroom. We are thrilled to recognize this hard work and celebrate the best of the best by presenting Mrs. Elsa Schmidt this year’s Iowa Golden Owl Award! We are proud of her as an Iowa Ag. Educator!”
Baseball team earns trip to State at Principal Park
The Golden Hawks (15-4) won the River Valley Conference, district and substate titles this year, reaching the Class 2A state tournament for the first time in 13 years. Mid-Prairie was defeated by West Lyon in the quarterfinal round on July 27 at Principal Park in Des Moines.
Fall 2020 | Mid-Prairie Alumni News 17
Alumni News & Notes
Kayla Duwa ’09 and Zach Wiles ‘11 were married in Richmond on August 8, 2020. A larger friends and family reception is planned, post-pandemic, for their 1-year anniversary. The couple resides in Kalona. Kayla is a credit underwriter for Hills Bank & Trust Company and Zach is a journeyman for J&S Plumbing, Heating & Cooling. The wedding photographer was former Mid-Prairie art teacher, Erin Manson Kirchoff, of The Locket Photography.
Colin Brenneman ‘09 and Emma Brenneman celebrated the birth of Walker David on June 2, 2020 at 4:45 a.m. He weighed 7 lbs. 4 oz. and was 21 inches.
Cody Kreutz ’11 and Madison Kreutz celebrated the birth of Elayna Kay on September 13, 2020 at 6:10 p.m. weighing 8 lbs. 1 oz.
Baltimore Colts Dan Dickel ‘70 Current MPHS principal, Jay Strickland, and his sons, Cole and Brock, discovered a football card in their collection. Much to their surprise it was none other than MP alum, Dan Dickel, from his time with the Baltimore Colts.
Kattie Redlinger ‘13 and Cody Marine of Williamsburg, were married on August 29th, 2020 at the Red Barn at Pine Creek Ranch in Marengo. The couple resides in North Liberty. Kattie is currently an operating room nurse at The University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics and Cody works at Transamerica in Cedar Rapids. 18 Mid-Prairie Alumni News | Fall 2020
Hannah Miller Schveiger ‘12 and Chris Schveiger celebrated the birth of their daughter, Tinley Grace, on October 6th, 2020. She weighed 8 lbs. 12 oz. and was 21 inches long.
In Memory By Virginia Wagamon Carlson ‘67
Mrs. Mary R. Wagamon was employed by the Mid-Prairie School District in 1962 as a Media Specialist at the high school. The high school was not completely finished at the time school started so many classes were assigned at different locations in the community. The administration asked Mrs. Wagamon if she would teach one class of Home Economics at the Wellman Methodist church basement. She agreed and walked into having over 50 students in one class. That was the start of her dividing her educational time between teaching Home Economics and Media Specialist. She was the sponsor for the FHA and Senior class and any other duties assigned by the administration. During her tenure at Mid-Prairie, she was there for the students. I don’t know how many times she would advocate for the students, such as when students were going to be exiled weeks before graduation (they did graduate) or when a “married” student wanted to finish her last semester of school so she could graduate!? Yes, she did graduate! I don’t know how many times I heard “Mrs. Wagamon, can I talk to you?” either at school or at our home. Their conversations were always private and personal. She helped students fill out applications and wrote numerous reference letters. You must remember this was in the 1960’s when a number of male students approached her asking if she would teach them basic cooking skills. Of course, she was up for this task and wrote the curriculum pro-
Susan Miller Simon ‘67 died Aug. 28, 2020.
Michael Brinning ‘82 died on Sept. 1, 2020.
Cynthia Figgins Riley ‘71 died February 18, 2020.
Tony Millice ‘83 died on Oct. 11, 2020.
Ed Zahradnek ‘71 died Oct. 21, 2020.
Former high school librarian from 1962-89, Mary Wagamon, died on Aug. 14, 2020.
Dick Ehrenfelt ‘72 died May 22, 2020. Carl Benson ‘74 died on July 31, 2020. posal, but the administration deemed that males would obtain this knowledge from either their spouse or mother so she tried a different approach by trying to have a co-education class that would cover budget, cooking, insurance, investments, etc. Again she was told that either their spouse and or parents would handle these matters. Mrs. Wagamon finished her years at Mid-Prairie dividing her time between Middle School and High School in the library. She always stated the Mrs. Pat Mangold was her right hand at the Middle School and she so appreciated Mrs. Mangold. In July, 1989, she resigned after working for the school system for 27 years. She might have resigned from teaching but she directed her attention to the Washington Community Theater working in the costume department, various committees, her flowers, friends and family. She was always up to helping anyone and making sure no one was ever forgotten. On August 14, 2020, I lost my former teacher, mentor, friend and mother. I would like to thank all of you for visiting and remembering her.
Marla Yoder ‘77 died on Aug. 1, 2020.
Former High School Instrumental Music teacher from 1964-91, Robert Gaston, died Sept. 11, 2020.
By Sandra Figgins Alper ’64
Cynthia Ann Figgins Riley ’71, died on February 18, 2020 in the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics. Cindy was with her family and friends after a valiant and brave fight against cancer. Cindy was the owner and operator of Cut Loose Salon in Iowa City for over 40 years. She is missed and remembered for her generosity, sense of humor, and spunkiness. In accord with Cindy’s wishes, there will be a Celebration of Life later this year. She is survived by her husband, Rick, sister, nephew, grandchildren, and her beloved cat, Riley. Donations may be sent to the Stem Cell and Transplant Unit, University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics. Full obituary with Lensing Funeral Home, Iowa City.
Alumni return to Alma Mater
Hartley wins Transportation Award
Jenny Schlabaugh Gillam ‘94 began a new position as a paraprofessional at MP West Elementary.
Teresa Butterbaugh Hartley ‘98 received the Holly Hoglund Klein “Iowa Woman in Transportation Award” in July, 2020. The award recognizes an Iowa woman in transportation that demonstrates outstanding performance in the school transportation industry.
Kristen Bishop Thomas ‘97 is a paraprofessional at MPHS Kelly Adam Tyler ‘02 is in her second year as the guidance counselor at MP West. Stacey Beeler Cavey ‘07 started a new job teaching second grade at MP East Elementary.
Fall 2020 | Mid-Prairie Alumni News 19
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