Alumni News Fall 2006 – Volume 45, Issue 3 Alumni Mission: We exist to unite and grow our alumni family, and champion the dream and values of Father Flanagan through leadership. Fellow Alumnus Parker Messmore, ’05, Defending Our Freedom When 2005 graduate Army Pfc. Parker Messmore, visited he met with the Army’s Rear D Company in Fort Campbell, Ky., Girls and Boys Town during the July 4th holiday it served as and shipped out to Iraq in December, where he met his 2/502nd a reminder of the sacrifice many alumni make protecting our Infantry Regiment of the 101st Airborne Division. freedoms. “I’ve been with the unit ever Messmore, an Indiana native, was since,” said Messmore, 19. wounded in action March 10 in Baghdad, On March 10, Messmore was on Iraq, by a roadside bomb. Three months foot patrol clearing routes in a Baghdad later he received his Purple Heart neighborhood when he stood on a directly from his Commander in Chief, roadside bomb and it exploded, spread- President George W. Bush. ing shrapnel throughout his legs. “I’ve always wanted to be in the mil- “When I was blown up, I thought I itary since I was six,” said Messmore, a wasn’t gonna make it,” said Messmore. member of the Army’s 101st Airborne Messmore was taken by medical Division. “I am always ready to defend helicopter to a military hospital in my country. I am very thankful that Kuwait where most of the shrapnel Girls and Boys Town set up meet- was removed. He remained in Kuwait ings for me with military personnel. for more than a month while his I learned what the Army offered and wounds healed before returning to what it can do for me.” action in Iraq. Girls and Boys Town’s family atmo- “My unit was very supportive and sphere provided a strong influence for kept me going. They told me I would Parker and it’s something he said he be all right and soon be ready to go continues to treasure. “This is where again,” said Messmore. my family was for four years,” said In June, Messmore received orders Messmore, who lived in the home of to return to Kuwait and his unit – this Mike and Jennifer Mitchell. “I consider time for a pleasant surprise; President Pfc. Parker Messmore is an American hero. The 2005 this my home.” Boys Town High School graduate received his Purple Bush personally presented the Purple Messmore, granted two weeks leave Heart directly from President Bush after being wounded Heart to Messmore and other wound- from action in Iraq, came directly to the in battle in Baghdad, Iraq. ed soldiers. Village of Boys Town after leaving June 27. Escorted by Father “This is the best moment in my life,” said Messmore, who Val Peter, Girls and Boys Town Executive Director Emeritus, claimed to be more nervous about meeting the president than Messmore received a hero’s welcome when many youth gave being in battle. “I personally got to shake the president’s hand him a standing ovation at the Music Hall. and meet my commander who leads me in battle.” “I always knew I would come back to Girls and Boys Town,” Girls and Boys Town has a long tradition with the American said Messmore. military. Nearly one-quarter of Girls and Boys Town youth have Ten days after graduating, Messmore’s journey to Iraq began with gone on to serve in the military throughout the organization’s basic training in Fort Benning, Ga. After four months of training 89 year history.

www.boystownalumni.org From the Executive Director

Dear Alumni, kind donations support the Home. We are opening four new homes in I can’t believe the Many alumni have shared their fond Washington, D.C., and shelters in summer is already gone. recollections and humorous stories of Compton, Calif., and Chicago. Father A slight chill is in the their times here. This is so essential in Flanagan’s vision is our guide and you are evening air and it feels helping preserve the Home, its history, the proof that what he did is working. like autumn is about to and the legacy of Father Flanagan and God bless you and your families each spring its beauty and all the previous Executive Directors. and every day. You are in our daily color on our homes here and across the For this I thank you. If you have some prayers here in the Village of Boys country. recollections you would like to share, Town. The boys and girls are back in school, please send them to me. We will add and they had a wonderful summer. them to our archives in the Hall of Peace, Working on the farm, vacationing at History so future generations of alumni Lake Okoboji and going to summer can know their roots and your legacy. school are just some of the things that Just mail them to: have filled their young lives as they build the memories of their youth — just Father Steve Boes like you did. 14100 Crawford Street My first year as the National Executive Boys Town, NE 68010 Director has been filled with the joy of Father Steve Boes learning about our great kids and the Keep us all in your prayers as we National Executive Director wonderful people across America whose continue to grow to help more children. Girls and Boys Town

From the BTNAA President Editor Robb Giambrone Dear Brothers and Sisters, Sarah Cambridge, our Alumni Director, Graphic Designer At our last board meet- is deeply involved in bringing records up to Eli Hernandez ing, your National Board date and working on the Association’s web- Contributing Writers of Directors became aware site. Maintaining current alumni addresses Anthony Blue that our association has not is another difficult task that can be made Katina Gordon compiled a coherent history easier if we all take personal responsibility Tom Lynch to reference. Collectively, to notify the alumni office of our updated Suzie Schierbrock members discussed the matter and asked Vice information. As we continue developing our Alumni Advisors President Ron Fisher if he would undertake Alumni Association, and as we have more George Buckler ’64 the task of being Alumni Historian. Ron contact with each other, the stronger our Sarah Cambridge ‘92 agreed to accept this task if he received help bonds become. John Mollison ’64 from alumni in gathering past information. With the 90th anniversary of Girls and Edwin Novotny ’43 Our association was formed in 1951, and Boys Town coming next year, the more Stan Struble ’68 documenting our history has been difficult. knowledge we have about our alumni can Printer New methods of information storage create only serve to validate Father Flanagan’s Girls and Boys Town Print Shop a great opportunity for us. Many alumni vision and the organization’s principles and h have been involved and served as BTNAA methods. The Alumni News directors since our founding. They can be a Stay well, and stay in touch. is published by direct help, as some may have kept files from when they served as officers. We can all help Your Brother, Girls and Boys Town by providing information about classmates 14100 Crawford St. Boys Town, NE 68010 and friends. I know we will all help if pos- sible; your National Board appreciates Ron [email protected] accepting this task and will help as much as Bob Nelson 1-800-345-0458 it can. President (402) 498-1150 Fax: (402) 498-1159

2 ALUMNI NEWS www.boystownalumni.org Father Flanagan’s Home 1920s Style From the living room to the bedroom, Town,” welcomed such distinguished guests The most recent changes to the house the 1920s lives on in Father Flanagan’s as , who portrayed Flanagan include replacement of the heating and original house. in “Boys Town,” and Will Rogers. air conditioning system, stripping of old Built in 1927, the red brick Georgian In 1941, Father Flanagan left the home damaged wallpaper, and repainting the style structure is one of the oldest on Home to the De La Salle Christian Brothers who home in its original interior color. Campus. Although its red brick exterior removed most of the walls on the first level The back portion of the house, which survived the times, the interior did not. and converted the second floor into smaller was the Christian Brother’s bedrooms, has “It’s important to renovate the house so apartments. As time passed, employees undergone a final transformation. The first people can better understand and gain the and campus organizations occupied and floor now includes the Father Flanagan spirit of Girls and Boys Town,” said Tom modified the home. Meditation Chapel, Father Flanagan’s Lynch, manager of the Hall of History and In 1976, a decision was made by recreated office and a replica of a 1930s the Father Flanagan House Museum. “Also, Monsignor Robert Hupp, former Executive dining room. it’s important to preserve the home because Director, to restore the home because of The last phase of renovation began it’s the touch stone for Father Flanagan.” its significant meaning to Girls and Boys this summer when 2006 graduates Johnny Much of the renovation was made Town. The declared Hameed and Rodney Harpe began possible by many alumni who contributed the home a National Historical Landmark reconstructing the second floor. Second both time and money. Those who in 1986. floor rooms will feature a dormitory, a contributed are recognized with plaques in The Father Flanagan House now Christmas setting from Father Flanagan’s the home’s chapel. resembles its original 1920s appearance era, a 1930s classroom, and a transitional “Their support has been invaluable with vintage carpet, tables and chairs. room for special exhibits. in bringing the first floor transformation Other opportunities to help with the to completion,” said John Mollison, ’64, second floor renovation are available. Vice President of Human and Physical Many items, such as beds, desks and other Resources. artifacts need to be purchased. Alumni The house served as a place for Father interested in helping can contact John Flanagan to live, work and entertain. The Mollison at (402) 498-1212 or mollisonj home, featured in the 1938 movie “Boys @girlsandboystown.org.

Girls and Boys Town youth and Family-Teachers provided much of the manpower in renovating the Father Flanagan House and Museum, while many alumni helped fund the project. Seen here is a gradual progression of the renovation.

Boys Town National Alumni Association Bylaws and Constitution Available Our bylaws and constitution are posted on our website www.boystownalumni.org. If you cannot access the website or would like a hard copy, please contact the alumni office at (800) 345-0458.

www.boystownalumni.org FALL 2006 3 Alumni Can Stay in Touch and Up to Date at New Website, www.boystownalumni.org patience while we were enhancing it.” alumni to email one another and invite “This is a user-friendly web program that others to join the conversation. protects the privacy of each alumni user,” Alumni who pay their annual or life- said John Mollison, ’64, Vice President for time membership dues can also conduct a Human and Physical Resources at Girls detailed search for alumni by name, state or and Boys Town. graduation-departure year. You also will be The website will provide all alumni able to email other members, participate in with up-to-date information on Girls and forum conversations, utilize the online cal- Boys Town news and events – including endar and read information about upcom- After nearly two years of work and research, the Boys Town National Alumni Association the sports programs – allowing access to: ing alumni events. has launched its new website, • Alumni News When updating current personal infor- www.boystownalumni.org. • Overlook, the weekly mation with the alumni office, it is suggest- In an effort to provide alumni with an Girls and Boys Town newsletter ed you grant permission to share contact improved means to stay informed and in • Current news articles information with fellow classmates. Many touch, the Boys Town National Alumni • Obituaries alumni would like to get in touch, but are Association has launched its new website, The “forum” section of the website, unable because the information appears as www.boystownalumni.org. available to dues-paying members, allows “private-do not share.” “Our alumni want to be informed of alumni to share their thoughts, lives and A helpful overview on how to navigate what’s happening at Girls and Boys Town,” experiences of times at Girls and Boys the new website is inserted to accompany said Sarah Cambridge, Alumni Director. Town. Alumni will receive their password this article. Please email the webmaster “We are more than happy to provide this and username through the mail. Once a at [email protected] if you website and thank all alumni for their person has logged in, the forum enables experience difficulties using the site. Boys Town National Alumni Association Scholarship Fund Provides Financial Assistance to Girls and Boys Town Youth The Boys Town National Alumni on the campus in the 70s. The recipient Boys Town National Alumni Association Association Scholarship Fund (BTNAASF) of that scholarship was Jamie Emmons. We Scholarship Fund Board of Directors: have also continued our support of awarding is celebrating its 41st year of providing President Dan Shields, ’78 calculators to the top math and science financial support to fellow alumni. Vice President Sheila Cornett, ’89 The BTNAASF is pleased to announce students at Wegner Middle School. Treasurer Steve Postert, ’69 our continued financial assistance to Crystal Oliver, ’93, who attends Secretary Ed Flanagan, ’81 graduating seniors. The following students Metro Community College in Omaha were given the Father Flanagan Academic and Rebecca Aleck, ’88, who attends Members: Ed Novotny, ’43, George and Vocational Awards: Mike Hastings, the University of Arkansas, also received Pfeifer, ’44, Harlan Vogt, ’46, Leonard Asa Boyd, Willie Jackson, Brenda Crosby, financial assistance from the Scholarship Berthelsen,’70 and Lisa Torres, ’89 Dennis Trainor, Tiffanie LaBat, Mario Fund. Cheikh Fall, ’03, received the James Wallace, Montez Love, Erica Yosick and B. and Virginia Williams Scholarship. Rita Simmons. On behalf of our President, Dan Shields, BTNAASF Update Justina Taylor received the Monsignor ’78, and all of the Scholarship Board This past year, we were saddened by the members, we would like to encourage passing of one of our longtime board Schmitt Fine Arts Scholarship, and members, Richard W. Watson, ’51. Our Rodney Harpe was the recipient of the anyone who may need financial assistance prayers go out to his wife, Louise, and for education to contact: her family. We are pleased to announce Alfred Witcofski Scholarship. Leonard Berthelsen, ’70, has joined the The Kansas City Chapter named a BTNAA Scholarship Fund BTNAA Scholarship Fund Board. Leonard scholarship after Father James V. Brown, Ed Flanagan, Secretary has been an active member of the Alumni Association for the last 35 years and we are who placed many boys from the Kansas City P.O. BOX 2 very happy to have him as a member. area at the Home and was an associate pastor Boys Town, NE 68010

4 ALUMNI NEWS www.boystownalumni.org Stephanie Boyd Peete, ’91, Broadcasting Her Dreams Girls and Boys Town alumna Stephanie Ric and Trish Ariza. “I just needed to trust the foundation, not just say ‘no,’ but show Boyd Peete, ’91, is heard loud and clear the new lifestyle and take a leap of faith.” them why.” making her dreams reality as a radio show She soon learned important skills, Though prepared for success, Peete says host and news director. providing a glimpse into her future. Ms. she still doubted her abilities at times “I have learned a lot about life and Lemon’s communications class helped after leaving Girls and Boys Town. She about myself,” said Peete, 97.5 KLAK Peete develop her writing skills. She joined wandered through jobs in the Navy and news director and morning show co- the yearbook staff, acted in plays and hotel industry before rediscovering her love host heard by about 1.5 million people performed flag corps routines at football for writing and broadcasting. throughout McKinney, Texas and games. “I was expressing Peete pursued her broadcasting career Colin County. “Girls and Boys something I always knew with all her energy. Guest spots on sports Town really laid the foundation I had inside.” talk shows and reporting on Texas high for me today. I have been able to “I am just so pleased school football games for the McKinney grow and evolve and become the with Stephanie’s success,” Courier Gazette and city television exact kind of woman that I hoped propelled Peete to her current job I would become.” with KLAK. “Through lots of hard Peete describes her job as having work and refusing to give up, I now fun conversation with a great co- am realizing my dreams.” host, Johnny B. “We get to act crazy In June, she was honored to and have fun, which makes for a promote the Susan G. Komen Race nice work environment.” for the Cure, which raises money for KLAK, launched last January, provided breast cancer research. Stephanie’s many new opportunities for Peete. She is grandmother and aunt are survivors featured on the cover of the first edition of the disease. In September, she of McKinney Woman magazine and has served as emcee for Hope’s Door’s become a spokesperson for local charities. Seventh Annual Gold Classic Skills “It is a really exciting time for me and the said Trish Ariza, now a staff evaluator with Challenge and Tournament. Hope’s Door is station,” Peete said. “I feel privileged to Girls and Boys Town. “We always knew she Collin County’s only shelter and counseling help others and say to them proudly ‘You would be successful when she got involved center for individuals and families affected have value! You are important!’” with so many things the organization had by domestic violence. As Peete reflects back on her journey to offer.” “I love that this job allows me to put through Girls and Boys Town, she said the An all too familiar aspect of the a voice on important women’s issues realization of her success and the attention broadcasting business – accepting rejection plaguing our country,” said Peete. “All too she receives is often hard to believe. – was also first taught to her at Girls and often, women downgrade themselves and Peete struggled when she came to Boys Town. “Girls and Boys Town taught young girls don’t recognize they have great Girls and Boys Town. She had little self- me to not take things so personally,” said value.” confidence, was scared, and consumed with the mother of two. “This business has a lot She also stresses the importance of negative thoughts and feelings. “It was a of ‘no’ in it, but with anything in life …you hard work to all youth. “Life, and the period of stop-and-go adjustment,” she said. have to keep pushing on.” accomplishments therein, will not always be “I was scared and would then have clarity.” Peete says it is important to tell her easy – but it is certainly worth the effort.” Peete said she realized her life had sons Brian, 11, and Bobby, 8, why ‘no’ An effort she broadcasts to a million meaning thanks to her Family-Teachers, may be the answer. “I want to give them and a half listeners each day.

Boys Town: Fifty Years Later by Joe Schrantz

Boys Town: Fifty Years Later, by Joe Schrantz, ’47, is a Infinity Publishing Co. collection of 29 stories referred to as “tidbits from life,” by the 1094 New DeHaven Street, Suite 100 author himself. In the lead story, Schrantz tells his impressions West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2713 www.buybooksontheweb.com of the Home after returning for his 50th reunion. Other stories Toll-free: (877) BUY BOOK include fiction, nonfiction, impressions, scripts and essays. The Fax: (610) 941-9959 book is available for $14.95 from:

www.boystownalumni.org FALL 2006 5 Vocational Training Continues to Build Character and Skills at Girls and Boys Town JROTC Program Developing Strong Leaders Girls and Boys Town youth in the JROTC program work diligently becoming strong leaders while learning the value of service to the community and country. “This program is all about teaching leadership,” said Col. Kevin Lee, Director of Girls and Boys Town’s JROTC program. “People think it’s a program to solely get kids in the military. No – it’s a leadership laboratory to build future leaders just like any other uniformed group.” Lee, appointed director in December 2005, is working to incorporate the Girls and Boys Town Model of Care into the U.S. Army JROTC Leadership, Education and Training curriculum while empowering youth to lead the program. The program reinforces important social skills taught to youth in all aspects of Girls and Boys Town life. “Cadets The Girls and Boys Town JROTC program was recently recognized as an Honor Unit with have to be able to respect their peers in Distinction by the Department of the Army. Col. Kevin Lee (top-left) and Master Sergeant charge,” said Lee. Erik Penaherrera (center) are pictured with cadet leaders (from left to right) Martina, Cadet Captain; Jackie, Cadet Major; Caitlin, Cadet Colonel; Brittney, Cadet Major; and In addition to Lee’s direction, the program Jake, Cadet Command Sergeant Major. also receives proven leadership with the addition of Master Sergeant Erik Penaherrera. Penaherrera, who arrived in June, comes from four years of duty with ’s Senior ROTC program. He said he will strive to teach the cadets the right way to do things in life and ensure all are positive role models on campus. The 142-member Cadet Corps is taking these lessons to heart, recently recognized as an Honor Unit with Distinction by the Department of the Army. “This award means a lot to us here at Girls and Boys Town,” said Caitlin, a senior at Boys Town High School and Commander of Cadets, “because we all come from different backgrounds, hard times and difficult situations.” “The whole group earned it,” said Jake, a senior and Cadet Command Sergeant Major. “All staff worked extremely hard to get and maintain the star.” Brittney, also a senior and Cadet Deputy Commander for Operations, said the JROTC curriculum and Lee’s direction prepared them every day for the inspection. “Col. Lee just lets us do our job,” Brittney said. “The Army inspects all aspects of our jobs to make sure we do it correctly.” An Honor Unit with Distinction designation is granted to JROTC programs after a formal inspection by the Army. The Army grades the program based upon 10 inspection areas, judging the Cadets’ knowledge, organization and management techniques. Unit activities accomplished during the school year are also graded. Programs that receive a rating of at least 96 percent are recognized as an Honor Unit with Distinction and receive a gold star. The JROTC youth leadership team teaches the lower cadets all aspects of the program – from basic marching steps and cadences to the swimming and mountaineering exercises completed this summer. “The accomplishments of these leaders are very impressive,” said Lee. “They put the presentations together completely themselves.” “We want to do this really well, but we want the cadets who come after us to do even better,” said Caitlin. “We hope to be the best and keep our gold star forever.” More than 35 percent of all Boys Town High School students are currently enrolled in the Girls and Boys Town JROTC program. Lee is working to expand the program to include 50 percent of high school students within three years.

6 ALUMNI NEWS www.boystownalumni.org Vocational Training Continues to Build Students Gain Valuable Experience in Nursing Program Girls and Boys Town youth with dreams of a medical career track the pulse of the Character and Skills at Girls and Boys Town Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program learning lifelong skills. “It really gives them hands-on experiences and satisfaction in helping people,” said Sharon Johnson, instructor of the CNA course. “They learn that there is joy in giving, not just receiving.” Successful completion of the course earns students a Certified Nursing Assistant certificate and the American Red Cross First Aid and CPR Training certificate, which is not included in college CNA courses. “It gives them an edge after they finish high school,” said Johnson. “It gives them a great opportunity.” “This program is a stepping stone,” said Dr. Robert Gehringer, Superintendent of Boys Town Schools. The nine-month Health Services course–one of the first offered in Nebraska high schools–allows seniors to practice medical techniques on mannequins, use medical equipment and role-play as ailing patients in need of care. “They have to think about how uncomfortable it is for their patients,” said Johnson. “Hands-on training like this gives Girls and Boys Town youth, seen here at a them understanding for the people they will assist.” recent American Red Cross blood drive, learn Students must maintain a C average in all work and pass a skills test before taking the to treat ailing patients in the Health Services state of Nebraska certification test. “They keep pretty busy all year,” said Johnson. “If they course. have something to take with them, it will motivate them and they will be more successful.” In addition to issuing certificates, the course also provides students valuable networking opportunities. Students in the program belong to Health Occupation Students of America (HOSA), which has held its statewide meeting at Girls and Boys Town’s National Headquarters the past two years. The group allows students to share and learn ideas about the medical field. And, after receiving the certificate, students are placed on a state registry that allows employers to access the list for six years. The skills learned provide value for students throughout their lives. “One student wanted to drop the program, but I told him to keep going because it’s good to have knowledge of CPR and first aid in the military,” said Johnson. “One day, I received a phone call from that student and he said ‘I am on the top of my platoon because I am able to help people in ways that others can’t because of the medical skills I have.’” Preserving Memories of Girls and Boys Town It’s memories in the remaking at the Girls and Boys Town Print Shop. Thanks to the hard work of Amanda, a senior at Boys Town High School, alumni without a yearbook are getting a second chance at reliving their memories. “She’s making new paper copies of the yearbooks that will be available for alumni to buy,” said Sarah Cambridge, Director of the Boys Town National Alumni Association. When the idea was developed to recreate the yearbooks, Amanda, who already worked in the Print Shop, volunteered for the job. “It looked so interesting and like so much fun,” Amanda said. Amanda started working on the yearbooks this past summer and reproduces them by scanning the original pages. “The more people find out we have this capability and have these on file, we’ll be reprinting frequently,” said Doug Larsen, Print Shop Manager. The goal is to have copies made for every year—dating back to 1952. Even though the entire process only takes about an hour per book, Amanda has a large pile of books yet to scan. The work can become tedious, but that doesn’t bother her. “It’s still so much fun to look at all the different years and things that have gone by,” she said with a smile. In addition to the yearbooks, Amanda also scans all the senior headshots and creates a senior class compilation for any year that does not have one. Gathered into a book, senior class compilations date back to 1937. Amanda, a Girls and Boys Town youth, works Original yearbooks are available for $20 and soft-back copies for $10. To purchase diligently recreating yearbooks for alumni. a yearbook, call the Girls and Boys Town Alumni Office at (800) 345-0458.

www.boystownalumni.org FALL 2006 7 Pfeifer, ’44, Jones, ’54, Inducted into Nebraska High School Hall of Fame A four-time Nebraska state basketball the last basketball championship won Jones’ athletic success championship coach and two-time until 2005. He also led the track team to was initially recognized by Olympic competitor were recognized by the state championship title in 1954. the Omaha World-Herald as the State of Nebraska for their athletic “He was firm, but he was a guy that I one of its Top 100 Athletes. achievements at Boys Town High really admired,” Cross said. “He was like “When we realized he was

School. my big brother. He was coach first and Jones one of the World-Herald’s Alumni, George J. Pfeifer, ’44, and brother second.” top athletes, we knew Charles “Deacon” Jones, ’54, were he deserved to be in the Nebraska Charles “Deacon” Jones, seen here competing in a 1952 inducted into the Nebraska High School Omaha District track and field meet, was enshrined into High School Hall of Fame,” said Hall of Fame September 24. the Nebraska High School Sports Hall of Fame Sept. 24 for Randy Cordes, the Hall of Fame’s “George Pfeifer is a class his athletic achievements while at Boys Town High School. selection committee chair. “It is an act,” said Robert Cross, honor to have someone of this caliber ’58, who played football, represented.” track and basketball for Jones realized outstanding success Pfeifer and nominated at Boys Town High School, part of Pfeifer him for the award. “He three state championship teams in is a friend, a good coach and a real basketball, baseball and track. He human being, and when he coached, he broke the national high school record taught.” in the mile run, with a time of 4:17.6 Pfeifer was a two-sport star in 1954 and was part of the record- during his days at Boys Town setting mile relay team. from 1940-1944. He played Jones went on to compete in 3,000 football and basketball and was Coach George Pfeifer celebrates meter steeple chase in named to the 1944 Nebraska the 1964 Nebraska Class A District the 1956 Olympics in All-State basketball team. Championship with the Boys Town Melbourne, Australia High School basketball team. As a coach, Pfeifer led the Pfeifer was inducted into the and the 1960 Olympics in basketball team to two back- Nebraska High School Sports Hall Rome, Italy. Jones is the to-back state championships in of Fame Sept. 24 for his coaching only Olympic athlete to achievements at Boys Town. ’56, ’57, ’65 and ’66, marking come from Boys Town. Girls and Boys Town Always Had Her ‘Listening Ear’ For many who attend Mass at Dowd reception July 28 reflected Sister Marie’s Chapel on Girls and Boys Town’s Home wide-spread spirit. Secretaries, cooks, youth, Campus, a spirited, comforting presence and executives – the list goes on – all shared was recently reported missing. their favorite story of the light-hearted and Sister Marie Gross-Rhode, Dowd humble, yet very direct, nun. Chapel Sacristan for 20 years, retired Aug. “We are grateful for the special gifts 1. Her gentle touch and true interest for of special people, like Sister Marie, who those around her will not be forgotten give years of dedicated service,” said – as evidenced by the 800 parishioners who Father Steven Boes, Girls and Boys Town attended her farewell mass July 30. Executive Director. “Praying for our kids Sister Marie was honored by Father Boes and “The Girls and Boys Town family made will be her new job.” many other friends upon her retirement as this the best assignment I ever had in my Retirement is not easy for the 84- sacristan of Dowd Chapel. whole life. I truly mean that,” Sister Marie year-old nun to accept. “Retirement? No! Director Emeritus and pastor of Dowd said. “Every one of you has the spirit and Advancement in wisdom and age,” she said. Chapel. power of prayer within you, no matter Recognition culminated at Dowd “Sister is the epitome of a happy religious what your religion. I have seen people with Chapel when parishioners – many standing woman doing the Lord’s work,” said Father intense problems and they have always had in the aisles – showed their appreciation Peter. “It is with an enormous sense of loss my listening ear.” with a “thunderous ovation,” said Father that we see Sister retire. But she is deserving Those gathered around her at a staff Val Peter, Girls and Boys Town Executive of a good rest after all these years.”

8 ALUMNI NEWS www.boystownalumni.org California-Area Alumni Inspire Youth Chapter News Girls and Boys Town alumni shared Omaha their stories of success and inspiration with current residents at the Southern California The Omaha Chapter of the Alumni Trabuco Canyon campus July 29 at a special Association held a pizza party Thursday, picnic for the Boys Town National Alumni Aug. 17 to kick off a new era for the Association-Southern California Chapter. Omaha area alumni. Nearly 75 people “Having this kind of long-term relation- attended the event – the first Chapter ship with our alumni is truly invaluable in event for many of them. showing our residents what kind of future “It was very encouraging to see many they can achieve,” said Keith Diederich, Alumni share stories and good food with alumni together,” said Reggie Welles, current Girls and Boys Town residents during ’57, president of the Omaha chapter. Girls and Boys Town of Southern California the Alumni Picnic. Executive Director. John Mollison, ’64, reported on Alumni from the 1940s and 1950s par- they make their way after graduation,” said the many changes taking place at the ticipated in this event to serve as role Deiderich. Home before the floor was opened for models for the organization’s current youth. At this year’s picnic, two special nominations to elect a new Board. They shared stories about what they have awards of recognition were presented. The following alumni were voted into achieved as a result of their experience at The Scholarship Award went to alum office: Girls and Boys Town and encouraged the Joseph Lambert, while the award for Most President: Reggie Welles, ’57 kids to stay active in the organization even Improved Resident went to current resident Vice President: Sheila Cornett, ’89 after they leave campus. Anthony. Secretary: Lisa Torres, ’89 “The Alumni Association reinforces the Coordinated by chapter president Bob Treasurer: Steve Postert, ’69 ongoing support available to the youth as Nelson, the chapter hosts this annual event Members at Large: John McCann, to maintain continuity between the alumni ’93, Gerald Ronzzo, ’73, and Mack community and the current residents at Huckeby, ’58 “Having this kind of long-term the campus. The alumni gatherings are relationship with our alumni is an important way to sustain the extended Thank you to all who attended this truly invaluable in showing our Girls and Boys Town family. The alumni event. We look forward to seeing you residents what kind of future group also attended the recent Girls and and many other alumni as we work together to build a successful chapter. they can achieve.” Boys Town of Southern California Spirit of Youth Gala. Illinois Matt Reny, ’75, and his wife Val, Jim Vinton, ’63, and his wife Bobbie, Own a Little Piece of Girls and Boys Town Tom Malone, ’68, and Ron Fisher, who departed in ’57, attended the Illinois Own a little piece of Alumni Chapter meeting July 22 in Girls and Boys Town while Peoria, Ill. The group approved the showing your support for the changes to the Boys Town National Boys Town National Alumni Alumni Association bylaws. The chap- Association. Purchase a set ter will hold its next meeting Nov. 4 of beautiful, handcrafted at the new Girls and Boys Town of darts made by Daniel Banz, Chicago, expected to open later this ’57. The darts are made with fall. John Corrigan, chapter president, wood from the original floor- said the Illinois Chapter hopes to bring ing from Father Flanagan’s awareness to the new site. house and can be personal- ized with your name. If interested, call the Total cost for the darts set is $50. Each purchase goes Alumni Office at to the Boys Town National (800) 345-0458 Alumni Association fund. to place an order.

www.boystownalumni.org FALL 2006 9 Roger Hinesh’s, ’56, Message of Hope Sharing this message with you, my fellow brothers and sisters, would not be possible were it not for Father Flanagan and the Home. I came to the Home a troubled child and it saddens me that I did not live up to Father Flanagan’s dreams when I left. I return now sharing the Girls and Boys Town mission of changing the way America cares for her children and families. When I left Boys Town, the alcohol and drugs that entered my life led me to prison in Texas and eventually to solitary confinement. Solitary was brutal – no bed, no toilet, no running water. The only time I had human contact was when they came to feed me. I got to a point where I was about to lose my mind when I heard a voice saying, “you’re not a bad boy, it’s only bad thinking, bad examples.” This voice brought back memories of Boys Town and Father Flanagan. When I start- ed leaving the drugs and alcohol alone, I knew Father Flanagan spoke to me. I remembered the saying, “He ain’t heavy, Father... he’s my brother,” and wondered how I could apply it to my life. 2006 Lifetime When I was taken out of solitary at 36, I met my friend Sam, and he helped me through a Alumni Members 12-step recovery program. I soon realized a higher power in my life and nearly one year later Our Newest Lifetime Members – Sept. 12, 1975 – was released on parole for five years. Once released from prison, I began my journey home to Boys Town. I met with a coun- Duane L. Svetc, ’52 selor at a halfway house who almost immediately asked me the last time I contacted Boys Edward D. Svetc, ’54 Town. I learned I wasn’t banned from the Home when I talked with Tom Burns, Alumni Kenneth L. Svetc, ’56 Director, in 1977. Michael J. Brennan, ’57 Tom asked what I was doing to help prevent youth from the problems I faced. My life’s Robert W. King, ’57 purpose soon started to change. I started talking to kids throughout the country about making James H. Price, ’61 wrong decisions. I actually went back to the Texas prison in 1977 as a guest speaker. I asked, and Paul M. Otero, ’68 continue to ask, Father Flanagan to help me find the right words to help improve other lives. John. L. Ellebb, ’81 Now, my journey has brought me back to the Home again this summer. After meeting Kevin P. Barcomb ’91 with Sarah Cambridge and Father Boes, I learned of the goal to increase active membership John L. McCann III, ’93 in the Alumni Association. We must do our part and reach out to our fellow brothers and More than 800 alumni are lifetime Boys sisters. Father Flanagan wanted us to help change our greatest asset – our youth. I recently Town National Alumni Association members spoke to youth in prison and shared with them Father Flanagan’s philosophy, “there is no and have received their permanent mem- bership card and lapel pin. such thing as a bad child.” Every one of us can instill this into our communities. And let’s Remember, if you have paid your always remember what Father Flanagan said: “The work will continue, you see, whether I am Lifetime Membership, or are paying on it, there or not, because it is God’s work, not mine.” you need not pay annual dues! Membership in the Alumni Association also grants alum- God Bless, ni access to extended privileges on the new website, www.boystownalumni.org. Roger Hinesh, Class of 1956 From The Alumni Director

Dear Brothers and Sisters, We must work together to increase our active member- Another summer has ended, our youth are ship 20 percent by 2008. This needs to be a family effort back in school and fall sports are in full swing. – one person can not do it alone. As brothers and sisters we Girls and Boys Town youth worked diligently have to take it upon ourselves to reach this goal. Please chal- throughout Home Campus this summer clean- lenge yourself and your brother or sister to call or try to find ing, painting, planting and feeding the animals. 10 alumni. If everyone finds10 people, we will have reached As we relive memories of summers spent at the our goal tenfold. Home, it is important we reach out to those we Thank you for your continued efforts and good luck. were once close to and rekindle old friendships. The alumni office works to find old friends for you. We all have a responsibility to ourselves and the Home to keep God Bless, in touch. If you know someone who is not currently in touch with the alumni office, please give them a gentle reminder to make contact. We are interested in hearing from alumni, from all generations. Simply contact the alumni office at Sarah Cambridge, ’92 (800) 345-0458. Alumni Director

10 ALUMNI NEWS www.boystownalumni.org In Loving Memory… From the Auxiliary President Leonard Salleng, ‘30, passed away Dave Dresang, ‘54, passed away Aug. Sept. 11, 2006 in Valencia, Calif. 7, 2006 in Appleton, Wis. Dear Auxiliary: Leonard W. “Wally” Floyd, ‘43, passed Jules G. Williams, ‘57, passed away away July 29, 2006, in Cody, Wyo. June 7, 2006 in San Jose, Calif. Where has the summer gone? It has been an extremely hot summer Lowell T. Miller, ‘43, passed away Michael W. Hubert, ‘58, passed away almost everywhere; hope all of you May 31, 2006, in Riley, Kan. Aug. 30, 2006 in Panorama City, Calif. had a wonderful summer in spite Fred R. Juhl, who departed in 1945, Kenneth Shearer, ’59, passed away of that. I have been giving a lot of passed away May 17, 2006, in Butler, Sept. 3, 2006 in Omaha, Neb. thought to the upcoming National Mo. Harold McCain Cavanaugh II, ‘73, Convention in 2007. We need to Jerry Bennett Sr., who departed in passed away April 28, 2005, in Texas. formulate some ideas for Auxiliary 1953, passed away July 27, 2006, in Tami Livingston, ‘90, passed away American Canyon, Calif. activities, create an agenda and form Aug. 25, 2006, in Fremont, Neb. committees. It would be greatly appre- Dr. J. Arthur Solomon, who departed ciated if you would share your ideas of 1953, passed away June 3, 2006, in Chicago, Ill. things that would interest you to take place during the convention. Please don’t hesitate to call, write or email your ideas to me. Where Are They Now... As I stated at the mini-conven- Joe Schrantz, ’47, lives in the Chicago sub- John Abare, ’81, lives in Higginsville, tion meeting, I would be sending out urb of Villa Park with his wife, Dorothy. He Mo., with his wife, Lisa, and 13-year-old notices to alumni spouses to join our recently wrote the book Boys Town: Fifty daughter, Mary. John, a lifetime Boys Town organization. Auxiliary members who Years Later, and can be contacted at 532 S. National Alumni Association member and pay their dues become members in Princeton Ave, Villa Park, IL 60181. president of the BTNAA Kansas City good standing. I have been doing that mostly through email right now, and Russell Tisheuar, ’49, lives in Louisville, chapter, is the owner and operator of a I will be working on that probably Ky., with his wife of 52 years, Joyce. He heating and cooling company and is an up to and including the conven- worked at General Electric for 34 years active community volunteer. He volun- tion. Alumni, please encourage your before retiring in 1989. He says woodwork- teers for Habitat for Humanity and 4-H, spouse to become members of the ing is his main hobby and also enjoys gar- which awarded him the Frank Graham Auxiliary. Also, I have appointed dening, golfing and fishing. Russell has two Scholarship for 4-H volunteers. John also Rita Berthelsen and Dianna Shely children, Roxanne and Kevin, grandchil- enjoys woodworking and traveling. to join me on a committee to work dren and great-grandchildren. He fondly Gina (Dobrusky) McDonald, ’90, cur- on updating the constitution and by- recalls attending Father Flanagan’s Masses rently lives in Portland, Ore., with her hus- laws. Remember to let me know and Babe Ruth’s visit when he was a youth band, Frank, and 2 1⁄2 - year-old daughter, of your ideas for the convention. at the Home. Madeline. She is expecting another child. Hope to see all of you at the 2007 She works as a financial analyst and enjoys William Scrimer, ’51, is a barber in Beach Convention. Haven, N.J. He is married to his wife of skiing, traveling, painting, knitting and 53 years, Brucine, and has two daughters, gardening. After leaving the Home, she God Bless you all, Kimberly Folander and Cynthia Wagner. attended college at Creighton University. Carol Trevino William enjoys wood carving and volun- Gina says she hopes to build a solar pow- President teers with a first aid squad. After leaving ered house in the future. Boys Town National Auxiliary the Home, he joined the Coast Guard dur- Greg Westwood, ’02, is an Assistant 7216 N. Woodland ing the Korean War. Family-Teacher at Girls and Boys Town’s Gladstone, MO 64118 Home Campus. After graduating Boys Earl Farnum, ’57, is living in Carlisle, Iowa 816-436-1236 Town High School, he received his culi- with his wife of 39 years, Naomi. Earl has [email protected] four children and has retired from Firestone nary arts degree through the Job Corps Tire and Rubber after 31 years. He says he at Weber State University. He went on Please call the alumni office toll free at: misses hearing from his friends from Sioux to work for Ameristar as a cook in five (800) 345-0458 to update your address, different restaurants. Prior to becoming phone numbers and email address. This Falls who came with him to Boys Town. is a great way to keep in touch with Now that he has retired, he enjoys hunting an Assistant Family-Teacher, Greg helped your classmates, and receive the Alumni and fishing. train cooks opening new restaurants in News and publications. Thank you in Omaha, Neb. advance for your cooperation.

www.boystownalumni.org FALL 2006 11 Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Father Flanagan’s Boys’ Home Boys Town, NE Boys Town, NE 68010 PERMIT NO. 1

www.boystownalumni.org

The Original Father Flanagan’s Boys’ Home 0608-222

Go Cowboys! The Boys Town Cowboys football team, under the direction of Head Coach Kevin Kush, is on its way to another impressive season, getting off to a 3-0 start. Alumni can log on to www.boystownalumni.org or www.highschoolsports.net for current schedules and up-to-date results. UPGRADE: 1. In order to upgrade your account to a Lifetime or Annual member, you must first log in using the preferred method above. 2. Once logged in, click on the “Alumni Store” button at the top of any page. 3. Then click the “Subscriptions” link on the right side of the page. 4. Then choose the membership to which you’d like to upgrade: Lifetime/Annual. Alumni Website User Steps 5. From here you can either download the application and send it in via fax, or simply click on the “Add to Cart” button to process your membership upgrade. 6. On the next page, click on the “Checkout” button to continue the membership LOGIN: upgrade process. 1. There are two ways to log in to the Boys Town Alumni website. Click on the Login 7. From here, we put in all the required information. Please use your most current button on the top of the page, or on the right side of the home page you will see a billing/shipping information. login screen. 8. Next, click on the “Checkout” button once more. This will complete your order. 2. Enter your username and password provided in the Alumni mail you received. 9. Soon after your order is received, you will receive a notification on payment. Please INFORMATION CHANGE: be patient in waiting for us to get back to you. 1. In order to update your account info you must first log in using the preferred method CALENDAR: above. 1. In order to visit the alumni calendar section, you must first log in using the preferred 2. Once logged in, click on the “Update My Info” link on the home page. (It’s located method above. just under the “Alumni Search” box on the far right of the home page). Note: You 2. Once logged in, click the “calendar” button at the top of any page. will only see this link if you are logged in. 3. From here, you can add an event or view the calendar in a week format. 3. Here is where you will have the opportunity to upload a current picture, change your password and update any other info that has changed. 4. To add an event, click on the “Add Event” button. 4. To upload a photo click on the “Upload..” link next to “Current Image.” 5. Fill out all the required information and click the “Add To Calendar” button. 5. Once you see the pop-up window, click on the “Next” button confirming that’s 6. Once you click the “Add To Calendar” button, you will see it added to the calendar where you would like the image to be stored on our servers. and you have the option to view it or edit it by clicking on the event link. 6. Next, click on the “Browse” button and find the image on your personal 7. To view the calendar in a week format, simply click the “Week” button at the top of computer. the calendar page. 7. After you have located it, click on the “Open” button. FORUMS: 8. Next, click on the “Upload” button. This will actually transfer the image from your 1. In order to visit the alumni forums section, you must first log in using the preferred computer to our servers. method above. 9. After the upload is finished, you will see a link under the “select a file” box. You 2. Once logged in, click on the forums button at the top of any page. must click that link to close the window and select your uploaded image. 3. From here, you can add a new forum or click on an existing forum to read or reply 10. Once you have clicked on that link, you will close the pop-up window and see it in to. the “Current Image” text box. 4. To add a forum, click on the “Add [+]” button on the top left hand of the forum 11. To change your password, highlight your current password (you should see them as home page. stars) and type in your new password. 5. Fill out all the required information and click the “Insert” button. 12. You will have to do this twice (Once in the “password” and the “please re-enter your 6. To reply to a forum, open the interested forum and click on the “Post Reply” link password” fields). Note: This is to make sure you have typed the new password correctly. under the moderators main message. 13. Once this is completed and you have changed other information you wanted 7. Fill out all the required information and click the “Post Reply” button. updated, click the “Update” button at the bottom of the page. Continued on back