Class of 1968
Alumni Liaison
Volume 10 | Number 2
Welcome to Rise, the voice of Grand Island Senior High alumni and friends. We show up every other month in over 9,000 in-boxes bringing you news, views, and memories of GISH. Rise is a publication of the Grand Island Public Schools Foundation.
This is Issue #2 of our tenth year of publishing the only consistent connection for alumni and friends of Grand Island Senior High. That makes this iteration 56 of Rise as we reach a decade of bringing the comings and goings of Islander alums across the globe.
We start things “At the Top,” with a piece on ways to dive deeper into the comings and goings at Senior High in addition to Rise. In her “Foundation Focus” piece, Abigayle Frazier-Hansen walks through the Foundation’s Classroom Grants and all the good educational opportunities they afford GIPS students. Kari Hooker-Leep’s “Making Your Mark” is a deep dive into how alumni can still be part of the ongoing story that is Grand Island Senior High. Mike Monk's “Distant Mirror” tracks the highs and lows of three events from the last year. The transitory nature of March is the subject of my “I’ve Been Thinking” column.
Wandering Writer Sarah Kuta takes us to a beautiful place where motor vehicles are unwelcome. “On the Island” correspondent, Alex Weaver, introduces us to Senior High’s Hulagans, who continue to spread good vibes on North Lafayette. Our Milestone this issue features an Islander who is Nebraska’s newest District Judge.
As usual, in our In Memoriam we honor those Islanders who have passed, in Reunions we have class gatherings and other class get-togethers, and in Class Notes we have the lives and times of Islanders everywhere. And, once again, you’ll get a chance to test your memory or at least your Google search skills with another edition of Islander Trivia.
Stay in touch, Islanders. And remember: Keep pushing on.
George Ayoub
Editor
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At the Top
George Ayoub describes ways to dive deeper into the comings and goings at Senior High in addition to Rise.
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Milestones
Islander Alum Kane Ramsey is Nebraska’s newest District Judge.
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Making Your Mark
Kari Hooker-Leep dives into how alumni can still be part of the ongoing story that is Grand Island Senior High.
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Foundation Focus
Abigayle Frazier-Hansen walks through the Foundation’s Classroom Grants and all the good educational opportunities they afford GIPS students.
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I've Been Thinking
George Ayoub talks about the transitory nature of March.
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On the Island
Alex Weaver introduces us to Senior High’s Hulagans.
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Distant Mirror
Mike Monk tracks the highs and lows of three events from the last year.
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A Wandering Writer's World
Sarah Kuta takes us to a beautiful place where motor vehicles are unwelcome.
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Class Reunion Updates
Class gatherings in Islander Nation.
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In Memoriam
Remembering Islanders who have recently passed.
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Class Notes
The latest happenings in the lives of GIPS alums.
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Islander Trivia
How well do you know Grand Island Senior High?
At the Top
GIPS Podcast part of wide range of district news
While we at Rise are proud of our decade of bringing memories and more to GISH alumni and friends, we are also the first to admit that our newsletter is not the only game in town when it comes to news about Grand Island Senior High and the Grand Island Public Schools.
Say hello to the GIPS Cast, the Grand Island Public Schools podcast and its host, Mitchell Roush, Communications Director for GIPS. Roush says his program is “A conversation-based podcast exploring the voices of Grand Island Public Schools … stories from all corners of our district, because here we're driven by our mission of every student, every day, a success.”
Photo courtesy of GIPS
With the popularity of podcasts growing rapidly, a program for GIPS makes perfect sense. For a sample of GIPS Cast, click here and listen to one of the podcast’s latest iterations, a discussion of the future of girls basketball at Senior High featuring Islander Activities Director Chris Ladwig and GBB Coach Kathryn Langrehr. To give you an idea of the podcast’s popularity and how prolific Roush has been, his discussion with Ladwig and Langrehr was Episode 50.
The GIPS Cast is part of a monthly newsletter on the progress, achievements, and news that GIPS offers parents, patrons, or anyone interested in what’s happening in the school district. The “GIPS Monthly Update” touches a number of bases including student achievement, staff and student stories, calendar reminders including activities, the aforementioned GIPS Cast and more. Here is a link to last month’s Update.
In addition to the Monthly Update and the GIPS Cast, the district's website is vibrant and easy to navigate with links to individual schools, information for parents, and what’s new and newsy at GIPS.
Please keep reading Rise. We appreciate your support and interest in what we do. And for those of you who want even more information about the Grand Island Public Schools, check the district website and the links above.
(e) Mail Bag
Milestones
GISH grad newly-minted district court judge
Photo courtesy of Kane Ramsey
Kane Ramsey, Class of 2007, has been appointed district court judge in the Ninth Judicial District by Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen. Buffalo and Hall counties comprise the Ninth Judicial District.
Ramsey is a former deputy county attorney with the Buffalo County Attorney’s Office since 2019. He was also an associate attorney with the firm of Jacobsen, Orr, Lindstrom & Holbrook in Kearney.
Ramsey received his bachelor’s degree in history and political science from UNL. He earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Nebraska College of Law.
Ramsey’s mother, Katie, was a longtime GIPS teacher at Walnut Middle School and also a science coordinator for the GIPS district, and his father, Kirk, was a longtime counselor at Barr Middle School.
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Making Your Mark
Alumni support: your continued connection
Class of 1983
Executive Director
GIPS Foundation
Grand Island Senior High has shaped countless lives, leaving a lasting impact on its graduates. As Islanders venture out into the world, many feel pulled to stay connected and contribute to help shape other Islanders’ futures. There are numerous ways alumni can continue to support Grand Island Public Schools through the Grand Island Public Schools Foundation and ensure future generations have the same opportunities they did.
One of the most direct ways to support is through financial contributions to the GIPS Foundation. Donations, large or small, can significantly impact our ability to provide resources and opportunities for students. Consider these options:
- Annual Giving: A recurring annual donation, even a modest one, provides a consistent stream of support for students' most pressing needs.
- Designated Giving: If you're passionate about a specific program, like Student Kindness, Classroom Grants, Teacher of the Year, or Professional Development, you can designate your donation to that area. This ensures your contribution directly supports the programs you care about most.
- Supporting through Events: Attend our signature event Harvest. This is a fun, interactive event. You will hear impactful stories, be part of honoring a special supporter of the Foundation, and experience the joy of being among fellow supporters.
- Online Support: Give through our online event, Go Big Give. Participate in a friendly competition against other alumni and supporters.
- Establishing a Scholarship: Creating a scholarship in your name, or in honor of a beloved teacher or classmate, is a powerful way to leave a legacy. Scholarships can make a college education more accessible for deserving graduates, opening doors to future success. You can tailor the scholarship criteria to reflect your values and priorities.
- Planned Giving: For those looking to make a more substantial impact, planned giving options like bequests, trusts, and charitable gift annuities can provide long-term support for the GIPS Foundation while also offering potential tax benefits.
Grand Island Senior High isn't just a building; it's a place where memories are made, friendships forged, and futures ignited. For many of us, it's where we discovered our passions, learned resilience, and took the first steps toward becoming who we are today. As Islanders, that connection runs deep. The Islander spirit will continue to call us back, urging us to support the place that provided us with robust opportunities and prepared each of us to thrive and dream big.
Giving back to GISH isn't just about writing a check; it's about investing in the future. It's about ensuring that the next generation of Islanders has the same, if not better, opportunities we had. Every dollar donated, no matter the size, creates a ripple effect. It might fund a new microscope in the science lab, purchase art supplies for a SECA program, build new classroom activities, or help provide additional Professional Development grants for GIPS Staff.
As a Grand Island Senior High graduate, your support is invaluable. Whether you donate, volunteer, follow us on social media, or simply stay connected through alumni events, your engagement contributes to a thriving community. You help ensure future Islanders have the same opportunities to learn, grow, and succeed. Let's continue supporting Grand Island Senior High and keep that flame burning … together.
If you're going to live, leave a legacy. Make a mark on the world that can't be erased. - Maya Angelou
Foundation Focus
Classroom Grants Round Up
Office Coordinator
GIPS Foundation
Part of my job is gathering stories from our Classroom Grants. Since November, I have been visiting classrooms impacted by our 2024-2025 Classroom Grants. These grants have empowered educators to enhance student learning through innovative projects. For this edition of Rise, I have a Classroom Grants Round Up for you! Follow the links to read more and see photos for each project. Your generosity makes these projects possible. Click here to see all of our Classroom Grants from this school year.
Walnut Holiday Harmony
At Walnut Middle School, the “Walnut Holiday Harmony” Classroom Grant was used to enrich students' musical experiences. This grant provided funds for students to visit local nursing homes in place of their traditional winter concert. Choir students spread cheer by singing holiday songs for the residents and learned not only about performance but also about kindness, empathy, and the importance of community.
Decoding Our Way Through First Grade
Shoemaker Elementary's first-grade classrooms benefited from a Classroom Grant that supplied decodable books tailored to early readers. These books support phonics instruction, enabling students to practice their decoding skills effectively. Teachers observed significant improvements in reading confidence, laying a strong foundation for future literacy development.
Where the Wild Things Are
The “Where the Wild Things Are” project brought literature to life for students at Lincoln and Newell Elementary Schools. Artist Nancy Fairbanks visited the schools to teach a lesson on clay and help students make their own clay monsters. By integrating art activities centered around the beloved book, students engaged in multidisciplinary learning that sparked imagination and encouraged self-expression.
Knickrehm 5th Grade Students to GISH Planetarium
At Knickrehm Elementary, fifth-grade students embarked on an educational journey to the Grand Island Senior High planetarium, thanks to a Classroom Grant. This immersive experience allowed them to visualize astronomical concepts discussed in class, deepening their understanding of Earth's rotation and its effect on the night sky. For many, it was a rare opportunity to observe constellations, fostering both comprehension and enthusiasm for science.
Digital Citizenship: Insights from a Legal Perspective
In an effort to promote responsible online behavior, Grand Island Senior High, along with Walnut, Barr, and Westridge Middle Schools, hosted digital citizenship presentations funded by a Classroom Grant. Led by Bobby Truhe of KSB Law, these sessions combined humor and real-life cases to educate students on the legal and social implications of their online actions. The initiative sparked meaningful discussions about cyberbullying, digital footprints, and the importance of kindness in virtual interactions.
This school year, your donations enabled us to fund 14 grants totaling $12,091 to teachers in the GIPS district. That means 6,346 students benefited from these grants this year, and the number will continue to rise as some of the supplies purchased will be used for years to come. There are more stories to come, so follow us on our social media to be informed when we post these stories and more. You can also learn about the Classroom Grants program here.
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I've Been Thinking
March brought transition to high school long ago
Class of 1968
Alumni Liaison
With this issue of Rise launching on the Ides of March, I thought I’d reminisce a little about this time of year from many decades ago: high school, in the late 1960s. While this is obviously a personal recollection, my sense is that a few universal themes will emerge.
The middle of March doesn’t necessarily signal the school year’s gun lap, but you can see if from here … or perhaps more metaphorically accurate … hear it from here. The transition is etched in my memory. This is the month senioritis, summer job applications, and trips to the river began to weigh on our minds. The itch grew in direct proportion to the timing of Easter, a free Friday and Monday in those days. No one had ever heard of a spring break for high school, de rigueur for most high schools these days.
My high school life revolved around sports calendars and GISH musicals, so this time of year was athletically transitory and theatrically culminating. The end of basketball, the advent of the spring musical, and the beginning of track season presented some challenges in what many think of as a lull in the school year.
My junior March (1967), Senior High presented “Land of the Singing Sky,” a musical goof about westward expansion and a nod toward Nebraska’s Centennial celebration. My role was Honest John Bailey, the name changed from Baby Bottom Bailey to accommodate the sensibilities of the time and place. Mr. Jack Learned and Mrs. Muriel Stalker kept us in line, on script, and in tune — well, most of us.
The Kearney Bearcats had derailed our hoop dreams that year in the District finals, on our home court no less. I loved playing there with bleachers on all four sides of the court, the GI Jets in their purple cheering us on, and the roaring students and pep band. It’s now known as the East Gym in a school where the new, larger West Gym is the current home for Islander hoops. The District final would also be Coach Gale Randall’s last game leading the Islanders. As luck would have it, and in a bit of sweet symmetry, over 40 years later my son’s first varsity game wearing the Purple and Gold was also in the East Gym when the Islanders hosted an early season tournament.
Meanwhile, back in 1967, track workouts had also begun under the watchful eye of Coach Bob Hanson, taskmaster … and as good a track coach and human being as you’ll find. That meant pounding the tiled hallways of Senior High when the capricious March weather blew cold, snowy, and sometimes both. Even rain was a problem, as all-weather tracks were still a thing of the future. I loved GISH’s navy sweats with yellow lettering, some cozy comfort when we found ourselves outside, dry, but running in inhospitable temps.
I repeated the same transition and timeline the next year, starting with “The Music Man,” in which I played Mayor George Shinn, a bumbling blowhard confused by the wiles and music of the titular, Harold Hill, played by Brian Dillon, and unable to keep up with my overly dramatic wife Eulalie MacKecknie Shinn, played by Norma Hansen. Basketball had ended badly in Holdrege, as we were dispatched in the first round of Districts by McCook, whose guard, Jeff Kinney, would become Big Red famous. When track season arrived, we again slogged through whatever the Nebraska spring skies brought us. The journey was more than worth it: The Islanders were State Track champions that spring.
Someone once said that life is just one big transition. Perhaps that’s true … especially if it was March at Grand Island Senior High in the late 1960s.
On the Island
What is a Hulagan?
Class of 2025
Student Correspondent
With over 60 athletic teams, performing arts groups, and various clubs at Grand Island Senior High, an activity committee of sorts is extremely helpful to let involved students' voices be heard. GISH Activities Director, Christopher Ladwig, had the clever idea to rework GISH’s Hulagans group to manage these activities and hear the inside scoop from students about their involvement.
The “Hulagans” have been boosting school spirit at Grand Island Senior High activities for over 10 years. In recent years, the Hulagans group was limited to a few seniors who would decide event dress-up themes, make game chants, and post about upcoming sporting events on social media platforms. But, as Ladwig stepped into the head Activities Director position last August, he decided that Hulagans could be expanded to hold so much more value for students.
Several students from various grades and activities at GISH were chosen to represent their activity in the Hulagans group this school year. From wrestling to show choir and basketball to marching band, all involved students at GISH have their voices heard in the Hulagan’s activity committee. Hulagans meet about once a month to discuss the GISH student body and share about the activities they are involved in. Hulagans are tasked with planning fun events at games, boosting school spirit, posting about activities on social media, and sharing their student experiences.
But Hulagans are not only busy sharing about their activities. Ladwig said, “I feel like [the Hulagans] are the ones trying to build the culture of the school…I am pushing this group to develop a mission statement and values to lead the future Hulagans into what we want this group to become.”
Photo Courtesy of GISH Cheer Squad
As a current Hulagan, I have thoroughly enjoyed this element of our meetings. Our group has discussed core values and has been trying to perfect a mission statement throughout the school year. Ultimately, as Hulagans continues to be reworked, the group is trying to set expectations and important elements that they want to see in this group for years to come. Ladwig said that the goal of expanding Hulagans has been to provide opportunities for all students to get excited about GISH activities, hopefully attending more school events and supporting each other. The school has seen a “better buy-in” from the student body at events he said.
Bailey Lange, a sophomore, has thoroughly enjoyed her first-year experience as a Hulagan. Lange has participated in both cheerleading and track at GISH, making her an important contribution to the Hulagan group. During its winter season, the cheer team practices three days a week and performs at halftime of basketball games. She is also involved in the cheer’s unified program, which she says has been “really fun, knowing that these girls are having so much fun with us.”
As a Hulagan, Lange has felt the excitement from the student body about the group. “I feel like the Hulagans get a lot more recognition as more people know about it and want to be a part of it,” she said. Lange was also a part of a group that had the opportunity to attend a leadership conference in Kearney. She and other Hulagans who attended learned a lot about leadership in a school setting and how to implement that into the Hulagans group. This conference is what inspired our group’s idea to set core values for the group and collaborate to set firm goals in the coming years.
Additionally, this is junior Katie Lofing’s first year as a Hulagan. As a varsity golf athlete and a varsity show choir member, she has thoroughly enjoyed sharing the happenings of both activities with the Hulagans group. Lofing says that GISH’s varsity show choir, Ultimate Image, has had a successful season so far. Although some rehearsals and even competitions were cancelled due to the heavy snow in late February, show choir has prevailed. She said that so far in their season, Ultimate Image has made finals at every competition, even earning Grand Champions at the Grand Island Northwest competition, with best vocals and best choreography awards. Ultimate Image takes on a spooky theme this year as members transform from humans to werewolves throughout the show, singing about the moon and being a “monster.” Lofing has thoroughly enjoyed her time in show choir and has loved sharing her experiences with the Hulagans group. “I have loved the ability to share about all of our activities with fellow students in Hulagans meetings. I think that the Hulagans group has definitely increased attendance at sporting and performing events, which of course contributes to our school spirit,” she said.
Photo courtesy of Sebrina Bergmeier
Personally, I have loved the thrill of being a Hulagan this school year. I look forward to our monthly meetings as it opens my eyes to what is happening across our school. With so many activities, outstanding accomplishments can easily get lost at GISH. Yet, the Hulagans group has helped to make sure that the student body gets to hear about all the amazing things Islanders can do. I have appreciated the representation within Hulagans and the diversity of activities in the group. Hulagan members have also been able to discuss what is going on in their activity at both the fall and winter pep rallies this year, opening up our accomplishments to even more students.
Going forward, Ladwig wants the Hulagans group to be even more student-led. “The goal is to show how GISH students give back and show our future Islanders … how the culture of GISH is amazing and that we support each other. Ultimately this group wants to do things ‘The Islander Way.’”
That statement could not be more accurate in capturing the true impact of the Hulagans group throughout this school year and for years to come.
A Distant Mirror
50th anniversary, tragic fires, and knee replacement
Class of 1967
Rise Contributor
As we gaze into the Distant Mirror, on the Ides of March, we will look at three major events I experienced this past year: one glorious, one horrible, and one promising.
This past August 31, Janet and I celebrated our 50th wedding anniversary. We were married in 1974 at Lake Okoboji, Iowa, where we now reside. We decided to hold our celebration at Lake Okoboji, at the scene of the crime, so to speak. We were blessed to have about 45 friends and family join us, including GISH high school pals, college pals, law school pals, Okoboji friends, siblings, cousins, nephews, and nieces. People traveled to Iowa from 15 different states. We enjoyed an open house at our cottage, a party boat cruise on the lake, and dinner.
Six GISH graduates joined us for the festivities, including three of my 1967 GISH classmates, Jeff Greenberger, Dennis Hickstein, and Tom Meedel, my sister Pat Wagoner (Class of 1970), my cousin Randy Garroutte (Class of 1970), and my good buddy and Okoboji neighbor, Dave Rowland (Class of 1966). Several members of our wedding party 50 years ago also attended: my cousin and best man Randy, my college buddy Steve Sicher, Jeff Greenberger, sister Pat, our good friend Mary Lazarus, the matron of honor, and Janet’s cousin Mary Lynn Bogle.
There were speeches, toasts, and recollections of moments in our 50 years of marriage. My cousin Randy used the Yogi Berra line, “I’d like to thank Janet and Mike for making this event necessary.” A particular highlight was when my niece Karen Wagoner’s son, Benny, now in second grade, asked if he could speak. He boldly came up and said that he really likes his great Uncle Mike, since Mike was fun to play with. Cue the waterworks. I am including a group picture of those who joined us. What was particularly satisfying was to have friends and relatives who had never met mixing nicely and making new friends.
Photo courtesy of Mike Monk
As November rolled around, we then closed up the lake house and did our usual four-day drive back to Santa Monica, where we spend the winter. We do not fly, but drive, so we can take our 14 ½ year old black lab, Homer. It is always a joy to return to California and reunite with our daughter Susie, son-in-law Caesar, and grandchildren Victoria and Leonardo, who live in Camarillo, about 45 miles north of Santa Monica. They had spent a week at Okoboji in July to enjoy the lake with us. We arrived in California in time to help celebrate Leo’s 12th birthday on November 20.
We had a terrific holiday season. One of my presents for sports fanatic Leo was tickets for him and Susie to the Rose Bowl, where Leo’s beloved Ohio State Buckeyes romped over Oregon. For Leo, this was heaven.
Then came January 7, 2025. That morning, I was driving out to Valencia, about 20 miles north of Santa Monica, to have lunch with a good friend. As I was leaving Santa Monica, I noticed about six fire trucks zooming by in the other direction heading toward Pacific Palisades, the lovely town just north of Santa Monica. I assumed a house was on fire, but was puzzled by the number of fire vehicles. Driving home after lunch I learned that massive fires, driven by strong Santa Ana winds, had broken out in Pacific Palisades. While the nearest fire was about five miles north of our Santa Monica house, the winds were unpredictable and areas near us were being mandatorily evacuated. So, that night we quickly packed a few things, put our black lab Homer in the car, and spent the night in a hotel. Once we left the house, I immediately had second thoughts about not taking more things with us: photo albums, legal documents, etc. While it appeared our house would be safe, you never know. During this tragedy, many people evacuated thinking they would soon return, only to learn their home had burned. The next two nights we spent with daughter Susie and family in Camarillo. While it was touch and go for a while, the fire never got closer to our house than about 3 miles.
The devastation was horrific for those impacted. Half of the homes in Pacific Palisades were completely burned to the ground, including my doctor’s house. His family had no time to take clothes, mementos, or personal belongings. The Palisades Recreation Center, where the late GISH grad Mike Parmley was once director, was burned to the ground. Many iconic landmarks, including The Reel Inn, a wonderful fish restaurant on Pacific Coast Highway, where we have gone for over 20 years, were but smoldering embers. Thousands of people, from the well-off to the struggling, were without homes. I will not push any particular charity, but if you are looking for a charitable contribution that will be appreciated, there are several available. For me, it was very emotional to receive an outpouring of texts, calls, and emails from friends and relatives all over the country asking about our safety. Thank you all. We are of course thankful our house survived, but the overwhelming grief and losses of other friends are sobering to say the least.
But my personal drama was not over. With two bad knees, after returning to Santa Monica, I scheduled a full knee replacement surgery on February 3. The surgery would be done by Dr. Andrew Yun (big fun with Dr. Yun), who in 2021 had performed a hip replacement on my right hip. Even before the knee replacement, I liked to say that I now had the trifecta of aging: hearing aids, a CPAP for my sleep apnea, and the hip replacement. Many people had warned me, with a serious demeanor and voice filled with meaning and gravity, that a knee replacement was a far more difficult recovery than a hip replacement, and that things could go wrong. One college buddy said that at best I was looking at 90 days of pain during recovery.
I went under the knife on February 3. The surgery went well, and Dr. Yun was pleased. They had me up and walking about 40 feet with a walker about two hours after the surgery. I stayed just one night at the hospital. Before they would discharge me, they again had me walk a much longer distance with the walker. They also checked to see if I could do stairs. I could, and I was discharged. The “Patient Education Handbook” I was given told me that by 3-4 weeks after surgery, many patients can walk comfortably for about 15 minutes. My physical therapist is terrific, and I was actually able to walk comfortably for 15 minutes just 12 days after the surgery. There was pain, but it was bearable, with judicious use of pain meds. My recovery has been quite good, and I am pleased I did the procedure. Ironically, I am now more fit than I have been in 30 years.
So, in short, a glorious anniversary celebration was followed by the tragic fires near our Santa Monica house and a full knee replacement. While the knee surgery was daunting, I am told I will be very happy when I am fully recovered. I am hoping for less drama this coming year.
I can be reached at michaelmonk47@yahoo.com
A Wandering Writer's World
Sarah Kuta investigates: Why doesn’t Michigan’s Mackinac Island have any cars?
Class of 2008
Rise Contributor
When I visited Mackinac Island last fall, a funny thing kept happening: Every time I wanted to walk across the street, I stopped and looked both ways.
Seems pretty normal, right? But there are no cars on Mackinac Island. This precautionary behavior was so ingrained in me that I just couldn’t shake it. I’d catch myself, realize my mistake, then quietly chuckle and keep walking.
Situated in Lake Huron, just east of the Straits of Mackinac and the Mackinac Bridge, this tiny island has been car-free since 1901. While every other destination in America (and many other parts of the world) grapples with traffic jams, parking nightmares, exhaust fumes, expensive car insurance, and pain at the pump, Mackinac Island has none of these inconveniences.
Instead, people get around on their own two feet (or on two wheels), or by relying on horses.
But why? How did Mackinac Island escape the madness of “horseless carriages?” This question is even more interesting when you consider that Michigan produces more cars than any other state in the nation.
Photo Courtesy of Sarah Kuta
To unravel the mystery of Mackinac Island’s ban on cars, we must travel back in time to the late 19th century. At that time, Mackinac Island was already positioning itself as a vacation destination, with horse-drawn carriages towing visitors around in the sunshine and lake breezes.
Meanwhile, across America, automobiles were starting to catch on. A few of them made it over to the island on ferry boats, which really rankled some of the local carriage drivers. They went to the village council to plead their case: These noisy contraptions were scaring the horses and making the roads more dangerous.
Village leaders agreed with the carriage drivers and officially implemented a ban on automobiles on July 6, 1898. In 1901, the Mackinac Island State Park Commission similarly banned vehicles within Mackinac Island State Park.
The island has been car-free ever since—well, mostly.
Photo Courtesy of Sarah Kuta
The police and fire departments are allowed to have vehicles, and there’s also an ambulance on the island. The state park has a few vehicles that it uses to perform maintenance-related jobs—but only during the off-season, or very late at night or early in the morning. The electric utility company has a bucket truck for power outages.
When important dignitaries visit, they sometimes travel in motorcades (for security reasons). Cars are also occasionally permitted on the island for movie shoots and promotional photo shoots. You’ll also see people driving golf carts on the island’s two golf courses (if you can call a golf cart a car).
But, otherwise, people and horses serve all the transportation needs. There are no UPS trucks, no Amazon trucks, no mail trucks—all deliveries are made by horse-drawn carts.
“Nothing moves on this island if it weren’t for a horse,” says David Jurcak, president of Mackinac Island’s historic Grand Hotel. “We move our food, we move our trash, we move our deliveries, we move our Amazon.”
Photo Courtesy of Sarah Kuta
The lack of cars really does make visiting Mackinac Island feel like traveling back in time—which is one of the tourism bureau’s big talking points. But, speaking from experience, it also helps visitors slow down, relax, and truly enjoy themselves.
Everything takes a bit longer here. But that also means there’s no sense in worrying about whether you’ll be a few minutes late for your dinner reservation—the maître d' knows you’re either walking or riding in a carriage, and fully understands that you’ll get there when you get there.
“It slows everybody down,” Jurcak tells me. “Your blood pressure starts to come down when you get on the island. All of that slowness permeates everything about your being, and all the stress just rolls away.”
It sounds cliche, but during my long weekend on Mackinac Island, I found everything Jurcak said to be true. I did feel less stressed without cars whizzing by, and I thoroughly enjoyed walking everywhere—sniffing the breezes rolling off the lake, listening to the gulls soaring overhead, watching the leaves rustle on the trees, smiling at other pedestrians.
Even if you don’t plan on visiting Mackinac Island specifically, next time you’re feeling frazzled, try ditching your car for a little while—it just might help.
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Alumni Reunions
Alumni Coordinator
kprice@gips.org
308.385.5525
Planning a class reunion?
We can help get you started!
Contact us for your class list and send us information about your reunion.
We will post it to our website.
NOTE: Reunion information in this newsletter is current as of the publication date. To see Reunion updates and additions go to our Alumni Reunions page.
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1956The Class of 1956 wishes to extend an invitation to fellow classmates to join them at their monthly gathering. They meet on the 2nd Tuesday of each month at the Ramada Midtown at 6:00 pm.
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Decades of the 60'sThe Decades of the 60’s breakfast continues to be held the second Saturday of each month at Tommy’s, 8:30 a.m. This is a great opportunity to reconnect over a cup of coffee and/or breakfast. We would love to have you join us!
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1960The Class of 1960 meets the first Wednesday of each month at Tommy's Restaurant at 11 a.m. Join us for lively conversation and a good time. Send your email address to Donna Weaver Smith for monthly communications at: dowesm@yahoo.com
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1966Class of '66 meets for lunch on the third Wednesday of the month, 12 noon, with the place updated each month on our class Facebook page. Hope to see many friends attend!!
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1967The class of 1967 meets monthly on the 4th Wednesday from 2:00-5:00 at Tommy's for chit-chat, pie, and coffee.
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1969The class of 1969 invites all classmates to our Monthly Luncheons. We meet the second Monday of each month at NOON, at The Finish Line at Fonner Park in Grand Island. Good Friends, Good Food, Good Times.
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1975The class of 1975 will hold their 50th reunion on September 12-13, 2025. The schedule is as follows, with more details to come:
Friday, Sept. 12 - GISH Football game at new stadium
More casual gathering with drinks & appetizers
Saturday, Sept. 13 - Tour of GISH High School
More formal gathering with drinks & dinner -
1980The Class of 1980 will hold a reunion June 20-21, 2025. More details to follow.
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1985The Class of 1985 will hold their 40th reunion on July 25th and 26th. Schedule is as follows:
July 25th, 2025, 6 p.m. We will meet at Wave Pizza for food, drinks, and conversation.
July 26th, 2025, 11:00 a.m. We will meet at the West entrance of Senior High for the high school tour.
July 26th, 2025, 6 p.m. We will meet at The Saddle Club for dinner and drinks.
More info to come! Contact Jim Gustafson at gusto85@gmail.com with questions. -
2000The Class of 2000 will hold a reunion on July 19, 2025 at Prairie Pride Brewing in Grand Island starting at 5:00 p.m. More details will follow. Contact Elizabeth Patterson at epatterson@keatinglaw.com with questions.
In Memoriam
January and February memorial list of GISH Alumni
John "Paul" Anderson, Class of 1963, died November 20, 2024 in Grand Island, NE at the age of 79.
James Lykke, Class of 1965, died January 1, 2025 in Chandler, AZ at the age of 77.
Sharon (Benson) Marshalek, Class of 1970, died January 2, 2025 in Grand Island, NE at the age of 73.
Nana Stalker, Class of 1975, died January 7, 2025 in Woodburn, VA at the age of 67.
Carolyn (Lambertus) Halsey, Class of 1962, died January 9, 2025 in Grand Island, NE at the age of 81.
Joyce (Halte) Lewandowski, Class of 1955, died January 13, 2025 in Grand Island, NE at the age of 86.
Jennifer Foster, Class of 2020, died January 16, 2025 in Lincoln, NE at the age of 23.
Jack Petska, Class of 1963, died January 17, 2025 in Lincoln, NE at the age of 79.
Kevin Oberschulte, Class of 1982, died January 19, 2025 in Grand Island, NE at the age of 60.
David Schroeder, Class of 1966, died January 20, 2025 in St. Paul, NE at the age of 76.
Julie (Pulliam) Schultz, Class of 1956, died January 21, 2025 in Topeka, KS at the age of 86.
Lola (Ramirez) Briseno, Class of 1951, died January 23, 2025 at the age of 91.
Rochelle (Spelts) Kennel, Class of 1973, died February 1, 2025 in Stromsburg, NE at the age of 69.
Bob Sass, Class of 1953, died February 1, 2025 in Grand Island, NE at the age of 89.
Steve French, Class of 1965, died February 4, 2025 in Kearney, NE at the age of 77.
John "Jack" Peters, Class of 1952, died February 4, 2025 at the age of 91.
Randy Yost, Class of 1971, died February 5, 2025 in Lincoln, NE at the age of 71.
Stephanie Wegner, Class of 1996, died February 6, 2025 in Omaha, NE at the age of 49.
Glenn Rauert, Class of 1963, died February 8, 2025 in Lincoln, NE at the age of 79.
Charmaine (Parsons) Arp, Class of 1971, died February 12, 2025 at the age of 71.
Dave Earnest, Class of 1977, died February 13, 2025 in Grand Island, NE at the age of 65.
Howard Hassett, Class of 1974, died February 16, 2025 at the age of 68.
John Dalland, Class of 1984, died February 17, 2025 in Grand Island, NE at the age of 59.
Edwin "Ed" Dixon, Class of 1986, died February 18, 2025 in Hastings, NE at the age of 57.
Tom Carlson, Class of 1960, died February 18, 2025 at the age of 82.
James Jones, Class of 1972, died February 24, 2025 at the age of 71.
Marjorie (Carmann) Benzel, Class of 1949, died February 24, 2025 in Grand Island, NE at the age of 93.
Merle Lessig, Class of 1958, died February 25, 2025 in Kearney, NE at the age of 84.
Michael Hoss, Class of 1996, died February 27, 2025 in Grand Island, NE at the age of 48.
Russell Hare, Class of 1952, died February 28, 2025 at the age of 90.
To report an alumni death since February 2025, please send an email with the first name, last name, class year and maiden name if applicable to alumni@gips.org
Class Notes
Rise wants to help you celebrate your successes with other Grand Island Senior High alumni and friends. “Class Notes” is the place to highlight a birth, an anniversary, a promotion, a college degree, an award, or other notable personal accomplishments and triumphs. Tell us about that new business. That perfect baby … or grandbaby. That Masters degree you earned after years of hard work. That recognition from your company, your cohorts, your community.
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1962A note from Shirley Geer:
I now live in Fairhope, Alabama, on the Gulf Coast. In July, 2024, I published my second book, "A Hard Life Well Lived," the true story of my husband's life, from age five in an orphanage in war-torn Italy, during WWII, to living the American Dream, and retiring here with me. His life was filled with hard challenges, near starvation, serious losses, and constant struggle. We met in 1990, via a video dating service in Boston, and have been married 34 years. His story is available on Amazon. My first book was a spiritual self-help book, "The Source Is With You," available at Balboa Press. I was a New Thought Minister of a Unity church for 13 years, a hypnotherapist for over 25 years, and I retired in 2019. Life is grand! ~ SG -
1973
A note from Steven Perkins:
I wonder: what unique interests and avocations do some of the Islanders have? Perhaps I might kick off a new subject matter area.I got hooked on genealogy in the early 90's, in fact published a few family history books. In the process I discovered my lineage to a Revolutionary War patriot and joined the SAR in 2004. I have been quite involved for over 20 years, first while living near Boston, then upon retirement and removal to SW Missouri. I've been a chapter and state society President, Color Guard Commanders in both states, and really enjoy like-minded men proud of their heritage, and determined to provide a deeper knowledge to others about the AmRev through Color Guard activities. A big one is April 19, 2025, the 250th anniversary of Lexington and Concord-the official start toward full independence. Thank a Veteran! Currently I am the Missouri SAR State Color Commander, and also the chapter genealogist, help others get an approved application for membership. Nebraska has a society NESSAR.org. -
1985Jim Brisnehan was appointed by Gov. Pillen to serve on the Nebraska Board of Engineers and Architects.
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2022Bryn Otto (GISH Class of 2022) sits down with "The GIPS Cast" to share his journey from "settling" for welding as his high school Pathway, to finishing college early thanks to high school dual credits, to a young, international leader in the arena of welding with over 55,000 social media followers. Along the way, he shares his passion for Career Technical Education (CTE) and how sometimes finding one lightbulb moment is all it takes.
https://open.spotify.com/episode/3LUsOe6gcr9CQVTu6KkuT4?si=pIdVfLWGTMCKTLjMNjFuwg -
Build a Class ScholarshipGISH Alumni Classes, as proud alumni, you have a unique opportunity to leave a lasting legacy and make a significant impact on future GISH graduates. Following in the footsteps of the Class of 1964 and 1973, who have established scholarships, the GIPS Foundation encourages you to create your own Class scholarship fund. By doing so, alumni can provide a chance for students to pursue their dreams. Together, you can make a difference in the lives of GISH graduates and leave a legacy that will be celebrated for years to come. Please contact Kari Hooker-Leep (khookerleep@gips.org) at the GIPS Foundation to discuss how to get started.
Islander Trivia
How well do you know Grand Island Senior High?
Rise is starting a new feature each edition called “Islander Trivia,” questions designed to send you to the deep recesses of your memory … or at least to your yearbooks, Facebook friends from high school or even Google.
Here are the answers for this edition:
Match the Grand Island Senior High Hall of Honor member or one of the Foundation’s Legendary Educators to their accomplishment:
Wendell Wood; William “Bill” Marshall; Mathew Placzek; George Siggins; Mike Monk; Monte Moorberg; Bayard Paine; Douglas Wilson
- A District Judge who was once the assistant principal at GISH.
- Recipient of the Distinguished Flying Cross, he played two years of football at the Air Force Academy.
- A banker with a law degree, he was an All-State athlete and exceptional community leader.
- A Dodge School alum, he was an expert on Jefferson and Lincoln.
- This noted neuroscientist made music with Joan Baez and Bob Dylan.
- A gifted Islander artist whose work can be found across the United States and in London, Tokyo, Austria, and China.
- His adopted hometown of North Platte called him “the godfather of civic projects.”
A Harvard undergrad and Penn Law School alum, among his clients have been Gene Autry and the MLB California Angels.
Answers:
- Bayard Paine- A District Judge who was once the assistant principal at GISH.
- Monte Moorberg- Recipient of the Distinguished Flying Cross, he played two years of football at the Air Force Academy.
- William "Bill" Marshall- A banker with a law degree, he was an All-State athlete and exceptional community leader.
- Douglas Wilson- A Dodge School alum, he was an expert on Jefferson and Lincoln.
- George Siggins- This noted neuroscientist made music with Joan Baez and Bob Dylan.
- Matthew Placzek- A gifted Islander artist whose work can be found across the United States and the world.
- Wendell Wood- His adopted hometown of North Platte called him “the godfather of civic projects.”
- Mike Monk- A Harvard and Penn Law School alum, among his clients have been Gene Autry and the MLB California Angels.
Do you have a trivia suggestions for our next edition? We would love to hear from you!
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