Rise Newsletter | July 2025

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George Ayoub

Class of 1968
Alumni Liaison

Volume 10 | Number 4

Welcome to the July 2025 edition of 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 #4 of our tenth year of publishing the only consistent connection for alumni and friends of Grand Island Senior High. That makes this iteration 57 of Rise as we reach a decade of bringing the comings and goings of Islander alums across the globe.

We reluctantly say goodbye to our On the Island correspondent in this issue. For the past year, Alex Weaver has taken to the halls of Senior High and given us a glimpse of what life is like as an Islander today. Thanks, Alex. You will be missed. Wandering Writer Sarah Kuta introduces us to a Colorado visitor far from home.

In this issue’s “At the Top,” we highlight the inception of having an “On the Island” writer for the newsletter. Mike Monk details a family vacation to Dollywood in his “Distant Mirror.” My “I’ve Been Thinking” column updates you on the move to Lincoln and editing the newsletter from outside Grand Island.

As usual, in our In Memoriam we have a list of 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.

At the Top

George Ayoub highlights the inception of having an “On the Island” writer for the newsletter.

Making Your Mark

Kari Hooker-Leep shows us how the Foundation uses the summer to lay the groundwork for another successful year.
Foundation Focus

Abigayle Frazier-Hansen talks about the Foundation's new website.

I've Been Thinking

George Ayoub updates you on his move to Lincoln and editing the newsletter from outside Grand Island.
On the Island

Alex Weaver says goodbye.
Distant Mirror

Mike Monk details a family vacation to Dollywood.
A Wandering Writer's World

Sarah Kuta introduces us to a Colorado visitor far from home.

Class Reunion Updates

Class gatherings in Islander Nation.
In Memoriam

Remembering Islanders who have recently passed.
Class Notes

The latest happenings in the lives of GIPS alums.
Islander Trivia

How well do you know Grand Island Senior High?

At the Top

‘On the Island’ idea was intentional, successful

Traci Skalberg, former GIPSF Executive Director

Inside this issue of Rise, you will find a piece by our On the Island correspondent, Alex Weaver. It’s his last column for Rise as he is moving on to the University of Nebraska. Alex, as so many of our student correspondents have done, has kept us in the know about what life is like for today’s Islanders. We wish him well and thank him for such good work at Rise.

Some may find it strange that in an alumni newsletter such as Rise, we make room for Islanders who are not yet alums. That was intentional. When Rise was on the drawing board a little more than a decade ago, then Executive Director Traci Skalberg was insistent that we include a GISH student as part of our reporting staff. Thinking with only my editor’s brain, I wondered how that might work and more importantly, how it would be received. I’m glad I got on board.

Alex Weaver, Rise 2024-25 On the Island correspondent

Ten years later I can tell you that Rise readers often tell me how much they enjoy our little enterprise and in particular, hearing what’s happening in the halls, classrooms, and playing fields of Senior High. What Traci’s vision encapsulated is a bridge from all our experiences in graduating classes from 60 plus years ago to last May. What readers tell me is that this connective tissue some call Islander Nation is a strong and lasting bond. Alex just finished the tenth iteration of that nexus as the Grand Island Senior High story moves forward.

I get regular emails from the National Association of Education Foundations. As I look through the emails and the topics they cover, I’m often struck by how the Grand Island Public Schools Foundation compares to what’s happening across the country. Excuse my bias, but as I see it, the GIPSF is a forward-thinking, progressive bunch, tuned into the needs of students, staff, and alumni and built to respond in the short term and the long run.

At the risk of tooting our horn, I’ve told Executive Director Kari Hooker-Leep that Rise as a vehicle to report and expand that work surely is among the best of its kind in the educational foundation universe. And some of that has to do with having a current student as part of that team.

(e) Mail Bag

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Making Your Mark

Summer's buzz: the GIPS Foundation's season of impact

Kari Hooker-Leep

Class of 1983
Executive Director
GIPS Foundation

While many envision summer as a time for sun, fun, and rest, for the GIPS Foundation, it's an active period dedicated to laying the groundwork for another year of student success and staff support. Far from a break, the summer months are a critical time for the Foundation to ensure its mission of every Grand Island Public Schools student having access to resources and opportunities, empowering them to thrive and dream big.

One of the most significant activities during the summer is the meticulous process of preparing to send out scholarship payments. Hundreds of students, from their very first semester to their last year of college, rely on the GIPS Foundation's generous scholarships to pursue their higher education dreams. This isn't a simple task; it involves verifying enrollment, coordinating with various institutions, and ensuring that every dollar reaches its intended recipient efficiently. The Foundation’s commitment to these students is unwavering, recognizing that financial assistance can be the crucial difference in their educational journey.

2024 Teacher of the Year announcements at Welcome Back

Photo Courtesy of GIPS

As August approaches, the Foundation swivels its focus to celebrating and re-energizing the backbone of the district: the GIPS staff. Preparations are underway for the highly anticipated "Welcome Back" event for over 1600 GIPS staff members. This annual get-together is more than just a kick-off to the new school year; it's an opportunity for the Foundation to express deep gratitude and to recognize excellence. A highlight of this event is the honoring of six individuals who have been nominated by the community, students, and colleagues for their exceptional contributions to GIPS. This recognition not only celebrates outstanding dedication but also inspires all staff members as they begin another year of empowering students.

Beyond the impending school year, the GIPS Foundation is also busy making arrangements for its 4th annual Harvest event. This signature fundraiser, held in the fall, requires extensive planning throughout the summer. From procuring honorees, speakers, and sponsors to securing auction items, the Foundation team and Harvest committee work diligently to ensure Harvest is a resounding success. The funds raised at this event are vital, directly supporting the Foundation's programs, including scholarships and classroom grants that empower teachers and enrich student learning experiences.

2025 Professional Development Grant Recipient

We're also incredibly proud to share that the Foundation will be awarding the Dr. E. Eugene Miller Legacy Professional Development Grant and two GIPS Foundation Professional Development Grants this month. These new GIPS Foundation grants were made possible through generous donations given at the 2024 Harvest event. This impactful program provides financial assistance to certified teachers, administrators, and other eligible staff members who are actively pursuing further education at accredited Nebraska institutions. It's a direct investment in the ongoing growth and expertise of our dedicated GIPS staff, ensuring they have the resources to continue providing exceptional education.

Of course, even with such a packed schedule, the GIPS Foundation understands the importance of work-life balance. And YES, staff are given time to enjoy their summer vacations too. Since the Foundation knows a team that's rested and re-energized does better work, I make sure my dedicated team members get time off to step away, recharge, and come back ready to tackle their important jobs with fresh passion.

In essence, the GIPS Foundation's summer is a synchronized dance of strategic planning, meticulous execution, and heartfelt dedication. It's a testament to our commitment to the Grand Island Public Schools district, ensuring that when the school bells ring in August, everything is in place for students to thrive and for staff to continue their priceless and significant work.

If you're going to live, leave a legacy. Make a mark on the world that can't be erased. - Maya Angelou

Foundation Focus

New look, same purpose

Abigayle Frazier-Hansen

Office Resource & Data Coordinator
GIPS Foundation

Behind every scholarship awarded, every classroom grant funded, and every inspiring story shared, there’s a network of generous supporters making it all possible. And now, there is a brand-new way to see the difference you’re making.

The GIPS Foundation is excited to announce the launch of our redesigned website. The new format gives us a more engaging space to showcase the work your donations fuel—from student success stories to upcoming events and ways to give.

As with any big move, we took the time to do it right. We carefully edited, reorganized, and streamlined our pages to ensure the new site not only looks great, but is also easy to navigate and clearly tells the story of your impact. It took time (and a lot of caffeine), but we’re proud of the result.

Take some time to look around and familiarize yourself with our new site. Some pages may roll out later than others, so if you can’t find a page you’re looking for, please check back later. Always feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions. If you came to Rise from a direct link, I encourage you to visit our new home page when you’re done here. We think you’ll love it.

Behind every page on our website is a student, a teacher, or a school made stronger by your generosity. Our online home is more than just a place to click and scroll. It’s where we connect with the community, celebrate the success you make possible, and invite others to join the mission.

Thank you for making this work possible, and for helping us share the story more clearly and beautifully than ever before. We hope you’ll take a look around and see the story of your support in action.

I've Been Thinking

Remote work just fine because I know what it means

George Ayoub

Class of 1968
Alumni Liaison

A year ago, I used this space to wax philosophical about the art (science? requirement? obsession?) of downsizing. We were moving to Lincoln. I was going to be editing Rise from somewhere other than the same neighborhood as Grand Island.

The reason we moved is Ambrose George Ayoub, the coolest kid on the block who renders me nearly blind each day, for whose eyes can see clearly with all those apples in the way. “Brosey’s” is now eight months old with a skill set and character development that portends all the greatness a grandfather’s imagination can muster. Also, who knew finding catcher’s gear, first editions, and a piano for an eight-month-old would be so difficult?

Meanwhile, Rise moves forward as our move is complete. An electronic publication certainly lends itself to “remote” editing, but to be completely honest, I was convinced that when we moved, I’d have to hand off my Rise duties. I sat in Starbucks and told the GIPSF Executive Director, Kari Hooker-Leep, as much when I signed my annual contract a couple of years ago. We were anticipating the move and I wanted to give Kari a heads up. The Foundation has been very good to me over the years … even though former Executive Director Traci Skalberg and a leadership workshop consultant tricked me into the gig. The last thing I wanted to do was leave them without an editor for Rise, which, as most of you know, is a single organized thread whose sole purpose is to connect Senior High alumni. And if there is anything the world could use more of, it’s those things that connect us rather than divide us.

1968 Yearbook Clipping

George Ayoub contributes to a great 1967 football season

Kari listened and said words to the effect of, “Well, why couldn't you edit Rise from Lincoln?”

I had no good answers. The Rise crew rarely met as one and nobody at the GIPSF office needed any hand-holding from me. These are pros, fierce ones. Several months later I called Kari and said, “Oh, by the way, that when-I-move-at-some-later-still-undetermined-date-you’ll-need-to-find-a-new-editor conversation we had? Let’s just forget that for now.”

Then I moved. This is now. Things are just fine. Which, as others have occasionally hinted at: What do I know?

As much as my good buddy Mike Monk and I like to reminisce in Rise about our “Wonder Years” childhoods and the way things were, change is always on the horizon and always arriving. Those years were great, don’t get me wrong. But the world is dynamic. Who could have even dreamed up an electronic newsletter when I was sitting in Mrs. Judy Barth’s 4-J journalism class learning about the inverted pyramid and deadlines, the latter of which I learned the hard way? And I’d never seen one when I taught the same class 35 years later at GISH.

Harvest 2023

Sure, I'll miss Friday night football games at the magnificent Memorial Stadium (or maybe I’ll show up one night and, as was our wont to do, sit at the top of the East Stadium with my pals and listen to the visiting team’s fans grumble and cheer). I’ll not make the fall musical or a “Christmas Carol” if the school still does that. (Pro tip: They should). I think the college essay writing workshop I taught is no longer a thing. Even the graduation party invites fell to a new low this spring.

But I’ll show up at Harvest where I’ve been a greeter and other Foundation events I need to be at because even though I have a new address, I’m still the Alumni Liaison, (never been sure exactly what that means), and I’m definitely still the editor of Rise. And I know what that means.

On the Island

Forever an Islander: a reflection

Alex Weaver

Class of 2025
Student Correspondent

Welcome back readers of Rise. As I write my last article for this newsletter, I can’t help but reflect on my time at Grand Island Senior High. I can remember back to the spring months of my eighth-grade year at Westridge Middle School where I had a difficult choice to make regarding what high school I would attend in the fall. After weighing the pros and cons between different high schools, I decided that GISH would be the best option for me. As none of my middle school friends were planning on attending GISH, I knew the transition to high school would be even harder than it is for most. My first weeks of my freshman year at Senior High were a flurry of emotions. While I was extremely nervous, I was also eager to find exciting opportunities for me to develop new skills and meaningful relationships. Slowly, I discovered the importance of staying involved in activities throughout high school and saw what each new pursuit had to offer.

Throughout high school I was involved in many fine arts activities: show choir, musical productions, competitive one-act plays, and marching band. I was also involved in several leadership groups: Student Council, National Honor Society, Key Club, Student Ambassadors, and Hulagans. Each activity I joined led me to new opportunities and amazing friends and helped me discover new talents and passions. My time at Grand Island Senior High would have looked extremely different had I not joined each of these unique and exciting opportunities, each providing a safe space for me to learn and grow throughout my high school journey.

Fall 2024 GISH Musical "The Little Mermaid"

Photo Courtesy of GIPS

I have gained an extreme amount of confidence throughout my involvement in fine arts at Senior High, not only by putting myself in front of large audiences, but also by finding my specific areas of talent and faults. Show choir and musical productions have taught me the difficult balance that it takes to make a large group function properly. Smaller play productions, such as competitive one-acts and seasonal shows, have taught me the importance of being resourceful and learning how to independently solve smaller issues. Fine arts allowed me to put my authentic self into whatever project I take on and to see others do the same with their own unique talents. This new-found passion, confidence, and independence will come in extremely useful as I navigate my future.

My various academic and leadership clubs have also allowed me to take away some important lessons. For one, the volunteering and community engagement required in clubs such as National Honor Society and Student Council provided me with a new perspective on Grand Island as a whole. I was tasked with volunteering at programs I knew very little about, which gave me an amazing opportunity to educate myself about the needs of the Grand Island area and what members of our own community are doing for the good of the world. Aside from this important new perspective, my personal leadership skills flourished to a higher level. I put myself in positions that taught me how to be a dedicated leader and how to navigate issues that tend to arise in many peer-led environments. I am thrilled that I learned so many communication and leadership skills throughout my time at GISH that I will be able to take with me into my career path.

Student Council members pose for a photo after a long morning of decorating.

Photo Courtesy of Alex Weaver

Through these unique experiences, I have found the importance of picking a pathway in life that encapsulates my multiple passions and fuels my creative mind. Looking into my future education, I knew that my career choice needed to be authentic to the truest version of myself and my skill set. Career options are limitless, of course, and after looking at hundreds of possible majors, I decided that taking on an Advertising and Public Relations major at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln was right for me. I am so excited to take on projects that genuinely make me excited and keep my passion for creation alive. I am not sure where my major may take me exactly. In just four years I may end up in Dallas, Denver, or Detroit. I may be near the coast or high in the mountains, or maybe even stay in our little community of Grand Island, Nebraska. Regardless, I will uphold my personal goal of staying authentic and doing what truly makes me happy, keeping my passion for creation ignited.

Reagan Kort

With that, I want to introduce the new Rise Student Correspondent for the 2025-2026 school year, Reagan Kort. I know she will do a stellar job reporting on the halls of Senior High and keeping our community engaged. I also want to express my gratitude to not only the Grand Island Public Schools Foundation but also to you all as Rise readers for giving me an outlet to express my creativity and speak on what matters most to me. This experience has not only prepared me for my future career endeavors in journalism, but has also educated me on the diverse parts of the Grand Island community. I am so excited to see what is next in store for the Rise alumni newsletter.

Forever an Islander-

Alex Weaver
2024- 2025 Rise Student Correspondent

A Distant Mirror

Letter from Dollywood

Mike Monk

Class of 1967
Rise Contributor

About 20 years ago, Erica Garroutte, daughter of my cousin Randy Garroutte (GIHS class of 1970) was looking for a fun spring break with some of her classmates from Colorado College in Colorado Springs. Randy suggested she visit us in Santa Monica for the week. So, Erica and four friends crashed at our house. They went to the beach, roller-bladed along the coast, visited Westwood and UCLA, and were toured around the LA area by my son James (never one to miss hanging with five charming college girls). They saw Arnold Schwarzenegger and his family at brunch and had a great time. At that same brunch, with daughter Susie present, we each told our life story in one minute. That is a terrific exercise that requires hitting the highlights, and it reveals a lot about a person. We loved spending time with Erica and her friends.

Dollywood

Photo courtesy of Mike Monk

This year, 20 years down the line, Erica, who is now the Director of Conservation Research at William and Mary College in Virginia, turned 40 years old on May 22. To celebrate, she arranged for a six-day gathering in Gatlinburg, Tenn., a gorgeous place at the northern edge of the Great Smoky Mountains, very near the Dollywood amusement park. Erica had worked at Dollywood one summer while in college, and she knew the area well. She found a large Airbnb that would sleep 15 to 20 people. The house was not only large, but beautiful, and tucked into the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. It had a large back deck with stunning views of the forested mountains.

Joining Erica for the gala event were six of her college friends, some of whom we had met 20 years earlier, her boyfriend Michael, her dad Randy, her mom Julie, her sister Hannah, Hannah’s girls, six-year-old Pearl and two-year-old June, Hannah’s mother-in-law Collette, my wife Janet, my son James and yours truly. It was truly a three-generation event. Pearl and June had three of their four grandparents present to entertain and be entertained by the spirited girls. People came from Virginia, California, Iowa, Missouri, Colorado, and even Canada.

We would begin the day having coffee on the deck, with a few of us doing the New York Times Wordle. Collette, Janet, Julie, and others prepared breakfast. Pearl and June provided constant amusement.

Dollywood group photo

Photo Courtesy of Mike Monk

The first day we went to Dollywood. I had heard of Dollywood, but knew little about it. It is a large Disneyland type of amusement park with various rides like the carousel, teacups, a dumbo ride, scramblers, roller coasters, swings, a Demolition Derby, Daredevil Falls water slide, and the like. The park also has several different scheduled musical shows, including one we attended at the end of the day that featured the history and music of Dolly Parton. There was a live bluegrass band, booths painting your profile, many restaurants, and of course a large gift shop. Our gang enjoyed it all. At one level I suppose that Dollywood is kind of silly, but I loved it. It had many of the features of Disneyland, but with a far more relaxed and casual feeling. While I adore Disneyland, it has become an expensive, crowded place, with people nervously scurrying to get in line for a 45-minute wait to ride Space Mountain. Dollywood rarely involved any waits and was not packed. One could stroll and enjoy.

On the second day, we went to Great Smoky Mountain National Park, saw the museum, and enjoyed the description of the wildlife, birds, and plants that inhabit the Park. There were life-sized stuffed animals from the area, including a possum, a red fox, a mink, a bear, a raccoon, a woodchuck, a skunk, and a turkey. Many of our group took a hike in the mountains, including both Pearl and June.

On the third day, we went to the Dolly Parton Stampede. This is a dinner theatre type of event, with seats and tables surrounding a large center area where performers on horseback did tricks and rustled live long horn steers and buffalo. They also had about eight members of the audience come down to the center area for a water bucket brigade contest. It had just begun when I saw both Erica and Hannah had talked themselves into being part of the show. It was all very lively, silly, and enjoyable.

Dolly Parton Stampede Show

Photo Courtesy of Mike Monk

I had previously been to Tennessee just once at one of Janet’s high school reunions in Memphis. On this trip, I was knocked out by the beauty of central and eastern Tennessee, particularly the Great Smoky Mountains. Large rolling mountains, completely covered with greenery and trees. Those geriatrics in the crowd may remember Davy Crockett, one of my childhood heroes. The Davy Crockett song begins,

“Born on a mountain top in Tennessee, Greenest state in the land of the free”

I now know the accuracy of that line. I found central Tennessee to be a particularly green, beautiful part of our country.

The people and visitors in Tennessee were remarkably convivial and polite. There were lots of southern accents, with virtually everyone who spoke with me calling me “Sir.” Of course, I am 76. Gatlinburg itself is a lively little tourist village with ample souvenir shops, T-shirt shops, and restaurants. It was bustling.

On Erica’s actual birthday, we had cake and went around the group, each of us telling a short memorable story about Erica. I told how, at her grandmother’s celebration of life, Erica mentioned how her grandparents had taught her, “You are never too young to learn to gamble,” a theme running throughout my family. We also then each quickly described one of our most memorable birthdays.

Spending a bit of time in the Gatlinburg and Dollywood area, one learns how much Dolly Parton has done for the area, which is thriving. Indeed, she is adored and admired. I have always liked her, and this trip provided a fuller appreciation of her achievements. I was surprised to learn, after the event, that Dollywood, for the third consecutive year, was named America’s favorite theme park by the National Amusement Park Historical Association. It beat out Disneyland in California, which was ranked second. Who knew?

A Wandering Writer's World

Welcoming an unexpected “tourist” to Colorado

Sarah Kuta

Class of 2008
Rise Contributor

Sometimes I travel to far-flung destinations around the globe, like Antarctica and the Galápagos Islands. But I’m also lucky enough to live in a place where other travelers like to vacation, which means I bump into my fair share of tourists.

This summer, I encountered a very special visitor indeed—though probably not the kind you’re picturing.

In early June, Russell came home from work and told me an anhinga had been spotted in Boulder County, just a few miles away from where we live.

Anhingas typically live in South America. This one is pictured in Costa Rica.

Photo Courtesy of Bernard Gagnon_Wikimedia Commons

I almost didn’t believe him. Anhingas are primarily found in South America, though they also live year-round in coastal Mexico and in the states along the Gulf Coast, including Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas. When they’re breeding, they’re known to venture farther north, pushing into Arkansas and Tennessee, as well as up along the East Coast.

But Colorado? Now that’s a stretch. It’s so far outside this bird’s normal range that it almost defies logic.

Except, there she was, perched on a log above a small pond in Lafayette, Colo. I saw the mysterious interloper with my own two eyes the next day, when we made the short drive to see the bird everyone had been talking about.

When we arrived, we found a small group of birders all facing east, some of them peering through binoculars while others snapped photos with their massive (and expensive) telephoto lenses. The excitement was palpable—everyone was buzzing.

Hundreds of people came to see the anhinga in Boulder County.

Photo courtesy of Sarah Kuta

One man was more than happy to let us look through the scope he had set up on a tripod and dialed in on the bird. He’d been at the site for a few hours several times already that week, almost as a public service of sorts. If people showed up to see the bird, it seemed, he wanted them to have a good view of it.

Over the ensuing weeks, hundreds of people from around the state made the pilgrimage to see the anhinga, who stuck around to show off her sleek black-and-white feathers. It was the fourth time an anhinga had been officially spotted in Colorado, and the first sighting since 2003.

Anhingas spend their lives in the water. And, yet, their feathers are not waterproof. Why? This adaptation helps them move stealthily in search of prey—and, when they do spy a tasty fish, it allows them to dive deep in pursuit of their next meal. They stab their unsuspecting victims with their sharp, pointy bills, then return to the surface to toss them into the air and gulp them down their long throats.

Anhingas do not have waterproof feathers, so they must dry out their plumage between dives.

Photo Courtesy of Rhododendrites_Wikimedia Commons

When anhingas swim, most of their body is submerged, leaving only their snake-like neck and head above the surface—which is how they got one of their nicknames, “snake birds.” They’re also known as “water turkeys” because they have large, fanned tails. Admittedly, they do look a little bit sinister—so perhaps it’s not surprising that the Indigenous Tupi people of Brazil called them “devil birds” or “evil spirit of the woods.”

When they’re not hunting, the large birds usually spend their time sunning themselves on rocks and branches. They often spread their wings in a crucifix-like pose to let their plumage dry off between swimming sessions.

It’s not clear how this specific individual ended up thousands of miles from her normal range, at a tiny pond in the shadow of the Rockies. Ornithologists call out-of-place birds like this “vagrants,” but they don’t always know how or why some birds end up so far from home. Some individuals can get blown off course by bad weather, like hurricanes that hit during their spring or fall migrations. Others have been suspected of hitching rides on ships. And since birds use Earth’s magnetic field like a compass for navigation, researchers say it’s also possible that disruptions from space weather or some other cause might simply cause them to get lost.

It was the first official sighting of an anhinga in Colorado since 2003—and the fourth all-time.

Photo Courtesy of Russell Hinkle

Climate change is also affecting bird behavior. Places that were previously off limits because they were too cold are now warm enough to tempt some species to head north, including Carolina chickadees and orchard orioles, just to name two.

I’ve written about a lot of vagrants over the years—a blue rock thrush in Oregon, an emperor penguin who showed up on a beach in Australia, a yellow-billed loon who floated around in the famed Bellagio fountains in Las Vegas, a roseate spoonbill and five flamingos that touched down in Wisconsin and even an anhinga in Maine, the state’s first-ever sighting. But I’d never had the chance to see one myself.

Whatever the reason for this anhinga’s visit to Colorado, I was happy to welcome her to the Centennial State. And so were lots of other people.

She was far from home, in a place where she knew no one and everything looked, smelled, and tasted unfamiliar. She may have been tired and hungry from the journey, maybe even scared. She was a stranger who didn’t belong. But surely greeting her with love, kindness, and admiration was the least we could do.

Alumni Reunions

Kari Price

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.

1956

The 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.
Decades of the 60's

The 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!
1960

The 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
1965

HELLO ALL ’65 GI SENIOR HIGH CLASSMATES!
I’d like to see who’s interested in joining me for a Zoom virtual Commemoration of our Graduation in a few weeks. I’ve only been able to attend one in-person reunion, many years ago, and doubt that will change this year, so I thought I’d try to connect with more of you using my Zoom account.
If you’re interested, please drop me a note at markedillon@aol.com, and I’ll be sure you get an individual invitation. As for scheduling, I recall our ceremony was the first week in June 1965, however, if you know the actual date, please reply with that for the invitation.
1966

Class of '66 meets for lunch on the third Wednesday of the month at noon with the place updated each month on our class Facebook page. Hope to see many friends attend!!
1967

The class of 1967 meets monthly on the 4th Wednesday from 2:00-5:00 at Tommy's for chit-chat, pie, and coffee.
1969

The class of 1969 invites all classmates to our Monthly Luncheons. We meet the second Monday at noon of each month at The Finish Line at Fonner Park in Grand Island. Good Friends, Good Food, Good Times.
1975

The 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: 6:45 pm - Football game at new GISH stadium for those that would like to attend all or part of the game. 7:30 pm - Thunder Road (1607 S. Locust St.) Casual gathering with drinks & appetizers.
Saturday, Sept. 13: 10:00 am - Tour of Grand Island Senior High School. 7:00 pm - Riverside Golf Club (2820 Riverside Dr.) Formal gathering with drinks & dinner.
1985

The Class of 1985 will hold their 40th reunion on July 25th and 26th. Schedule is as follows:
July 25th, 2025, 5:30 pm to close. Informal mixer at Wave Pizza Company. 107 N Walnut Street
July 26th, 2025, 11:00 am. GISH High School tour. Meet at the West entrance of Senior High.
July 26th, 2025, 6 pm. The Grand Island Saddle Club for dinner and conversation. 1 Kuesters Lake Road
Facebook: GISH Class of 1985
Information and payment info: https://docs.google.com/document/d/18xNmFpQIPXsIOElAUQyOvSN3cyFyzQAw54TrcK1VklU/edit?usp=sharing
Contact Jim Gustafson at gusto85@gmail.com with questions.
1995

The class of 1995 will hold their 30th reunion on August 1-2, 2025. Friday, August 1 starting at 7 pm, a school tour on the afternoon of Saturday, August 2, and a large formal event on the evening of Saturday, August 2 at 7:00 pm. Both evening events will include food & entertainment! More info, tickets & contacts: https://grandislandseniorhighclassof1995classreunion.com/about Tentatively we are looking at the following: Friday - Snacks & Drinks at The Hideout with Entertainment by GI Trivia with 90s & 00s trivia & music bingo with prizes. Saturday - School Tour in the afternoon. Dinner at 7 pm at The Hideout featuring a Prime Rib buffet & entertainment (either a DJ or live band depending on funds collected).
2000

The Class of 2000 will hold a reunion on July 19, 2025 at Prairie Pride Brewing in Grand Island starting at 7:00 p.m. More details will follow. Contact Elizabeth Patterson at epatterson@keatinglaw.com with questions.

In Memoriam

May and June memorial list of GISH Alumni

Arlene (Swearingen) Boyd, Class of 1941, died May 1, 2025 in Grand Island, NE at the age of 101.

Ronald Wiese, Class of 1961, died May 7, 2025 in Denham Springs, LA at the age of 82.

Benjamin Joseph Avila, Class of 1972, died May 8, 2025 at the age of 71.

Zacharie Cloutier, Class of 2023, died May 13, 2025 at the age of 20.

Shane Bushhousen, Class of 2008, died May 14, 2025 at the age of 35.

Lois (Mohr) Obermeier, Class of 1948, died May 15, 2025 at the age of 94.

Todd Flannigan, Class of 1984, died May 16, 2025 in Colorado Springs, CO at the age of 59.

Keith Kankelfitz, Class of 1981, died May 18, 2025 in Atkins, IA at the age of 62.

Nancy (Craft) Kuehner, Class of 1952, died May 18, 2025 in Phillips, NE at the age of 90.

Sid French, Class of 1971, died May 22, 2025 in Grand Island, NE at the age of 72.

Myrna (Wright) Glause, Class of 1957, died May 26, 2025 in Central City, NE at the age of 87.

Eileen (Burghardt) Dingwerth, Class of 1945, died May 26, 2025 at the age of 97.

Bill Neid, Class of 1970, died May 27, 2025 at the age of 72.

Jim Winfrey, Class of 1953, died May 29, 2025 in Omaha, NE at the age of 90.

Madison Ripp, Class of 2020, died June 1, 2025 in Lincoln, NE at the age of 23.

Damon Anderson, Class of 1981, died June 2, 2025 in Grand Island, NE at the age of 62.

Arden Trueman, Class of 1969, died June 3, 2025 in Grand Island, NE at the age of 74.

Lorene (Mader) Quandt, Class of 1953, died June 4, 2025 at the age of 89.

Todd Rittenhouse, Class of 1979, died June 6, 2025 at the age of 64.

Lisa (Scobie) Nitecki, Class of 1983, died June 9, 2025 in Arcadia, FL at the age of 61.

Wayne Vanosdall, Class of 1951, died June 18, 2025 in Grand Island, NE at the age of 93.

Deborah (Nall) Woestman, Class of 1980, died June 29, 2025 in Grand Island, NE at the age of 63.

Steve Hansen, Class of 1954, died June 30, 2025 at the age of 89.

To report an alumni death since June 2025, please send an email with the first name, last name, class year and maiden name if applicable to alumni@gips.org

Hall of Honor Inductee, Benjamin Avila, died May 8, 2025

Benjamin Avila, 71 of Lincoln formerly of Grand Island died on May 8, 2025. Benjamin was born on March 31, 1954 in Grand Island, the son of Charles and Delores (Reynaga) Avila. He was a 1972 graduate of Grand Island Senior High.

Benji, as his friends called him, was always an active, loving son who pursued his goals with passion and vigor. The bigger the challenge, the better. In all his years, Benji had a close relationship with his parents.

As a young man growing up, he participated in many of the traditional children’s activities such as the Kiwanis Kid’s Day Parade. As a young man, he was a compassionate citizen and a hard worker.

Benji once rented a Santa suit to provide Christmas gifts to children he knew would have little or nothing from Santa Claus.

In his high school years, he took his education and work seriously. One of his passions was music. He was actively involved in marching band in Senior High and at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He helped establish a scholarship program for Hispanic students.

After graduating from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Benji worked as an assistant to the Dean of Education at the University of Nebraska-Kearney, and as an educational consultant for the Houston Public Schools. He helped establish a student teaching exchange program with the University of Nebraska-Kearney. He was a noted leader in bilingual education.

Survivors include nephews, D.J. and Marty Avila and their families; sister-in-law, Cindy Avila; aunts, Josie Guerrero and Connie Reynaga and many cousins and friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents and brother, Steve Avila.

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.

Submit a Class Note

1975

Alan Hayman is retiring after 22 years at GIPS. Alan was a Custodial Supervisor at GISH.
1976

Patrick Martin is retiring after 16 years at GIPS. Patrick was a Painter for GIPS.
1978

Terri Dickinson is retiring after 8 years at GIPS. Terri was a Paraeducator at GISH.
1979

Kristine McMullen is retiring after 19 years with GIPS. Kristine was a Special Education Coordinator at GISH.
1980

Holly Love is retiring after 11 years at GIPS. Holly was a Math Teacher at Walnut Middle School.

Islander Trivia

How well do you know Grand Island Senior High?

Welcome to “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 is the trivia for this edition:

With summer comes the scramble for many students to find jobs, one they can work and still make band camps, weights, cheer practice, and Boys and Girls State. Here’s some trivia about jobs of the past.

Which of the following is not somewhere you would find a “car hop?”

a. Hight’s
b. Nifty’s
c. Hesteds
d. A&W

2. Hundreds of Islanders worked a few weeks in the summer detasseling corn. A few others worked an equally hot, humid muddy job in the fields near Grand Island. What was it called?

a. seeding
b. roguing
c. bolting
d. culling

3. Many legion baseball players needed flexibility in their summer jobs to get off in time to get to ball games. Where did many legion ball players work that allowed them such flexibility?

a. city parks
b. Skag-Way
c. the ordinance plant
d. Riverside Golf Club

4. Some Islanders lifeguarded during the summer, scoring a great tan and making a little cash. The crown jewel of lifeguarding jobs was a gig at the “Big Pool.” Where was it located?

a. where Island Oasis is now (near Fonner Park)
b. just south of Ryder Field off Custer Ave.
c. at Kuester’s Lake.
d. on South Oak, near Pier Park.

Answers

Do you have a trivia suggestions for our next edition? We would love to hear from you!

Trivia Suggestions

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2025

July 2025