Class of 1968
Alumni Liaison
Volume 11 | Number 1
Welcome to the January 2026 edition of Rise, the voice of Grand Island Senior High alumni and friends. Oh … and a Happy New Year to you and yours.
We show up every other month in over 11,000 in-boxes bringing you news, views, and memories of GISH. Rise is a publication of the Grand Island Public Schools Foundation.
This is Issue #1 of our 11th year of publishing the only consistent connection for alumni and friends of Grand Island Senior High. That makes this iteration 61 of Rise as we pass a decade of bringing the comings and goings of Islander alums across the globe.
Grand Island Senior High’s W.J. Arrasmith Planetarium is going to get a million dollar makeover, its first real significant renovation since the stargazing place opened in 1965. It’s our “At the Top” piece, this issue. Construction on the planetarium’s new look will begin in May, part of a $10 million dollar district-wide facilities upgrade.
Rise’s On the Island Correspondent, Reagan Kort, walks us through the holidays at GISH and brings us tidings from Winter Ball and a big Show Choir event. Mandy Sullivan, the Foundation’s Administration and Development Associate, uses her “Foundation Focus” to keep us updated on the GIPSF’s good work, including Walnut Middle School’s D.C. Diplomats students getting their HAM radio certifications.
Wandering Writer Sarah Kuta makes the case that even when you’re apart for the holidays, the families can still enjoy each other and grow even stronger bonds. Mike Monk’s “Distant Mirror” looks at the world of sports and how much it has changed over the years -- some for the better, some not so much. In my “I’ve Been Thinking” column, I chronicle how Senior High’s signature framed class photos almost fell by the wayside 30-plus years ago when the building was expanded, remodeled, and renovated. Kari Hooker-Leep looks back at 2025 and forward to 2026 in her message from the Executive Director's office.
Our Milestones this issue are the five new members of the Grand Island Senior High Athletic Hall of Fame. As usual, In Memoriam lists 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.
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At the Top
George Ayoub discusses the renovation of GISH's planetarium that will transport visitors to infinity and beyond.
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Milestones
GISH Athletic Hall of Fame Announces 2026 Class.
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Making Your Mark
Kari Hooker-Leep reflects on 2025 emphasizing that the true progress lies in increased commitment not just statistical gains.
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Foundation Focus
Mandy Sullivan reports on radio waves of opportunity for Walnut students made possible through Compassion Grants.
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I've Been Thinking
George Ayoub talks about progress marching forward with the renovations to Senior High and throughout the district.
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On the Island
Reagan Kort reports on festive events at GISH helping students dance their way into the holidays.
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Distant Mirror
Mike Monk, a passionate sports fan, ponders over today's sporting world.
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A Wandering Writer's World
Sarah Kuta makes the case for families growing strong bonds even when you're apart for the holidays.
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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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Islander Trivia
How well do you know Grand Island Senior High?
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Tom Dinsdale -
At the Top
Senior High Planetarium To Get Needed Facelift
To paraphrase noted philosopher Buzz Lightyear, the Grand Island Senior High’s W. J. Arrasmith Planetarium will be improving its ability to allow visitors a chance to peek at infinity and beyond. Or at least the stars in the heavens.
A $1 million renovation project for the planetarium includes new seating, carpeting, and upgraded electronics. Construction will begin in May. The money is part of a $10.16 million packet of projects on which the Grand Island Public Schools is moving forward.
For complete details on the planetarium upgrade and all the other district renovations and construction see this piece from Central Nebraska Today, written by GISH alum, Carol Bryant here.
(e) Mail Bag
Milestones
GISH Athletic Hall of Fame Announces 2026 Class
Grand Island Senior High will induct five new members to its Athletic Hall of Fame this month. The inductees are Beth (Oliver) Lemke, Female Athlete; Lynn Hall, Male Athlete; Coach Jeff Stern & Assistant Coaches; 2007 Girls State Champion Track Team; and Vic Nelson, Contributor.
In addition to being introduced at halftime of the Senior High boys basketball game vs. Lincoln Southeast on Friday, January 23, the quintet will be honored at a brunch the next day at Balz Banquet and Reception Hall in downtown Grand Island at 10 a.m. Tickets to the event are $25.
For full bios of the inductees, click here.
Making Your Mark
January Brings Reflection and Looking Forward
Class of 1983
Executive Director
GIPS Foundation
Welcome to January 2026! We are hitting the ground running, propelled by the success of last year and focused on the limitless potential of what endeavors are to be conquered.
As I reflect on the year we just completed, I see more than just numbers—I see a commitment. The story of 2025, the year of RISE, is a story of momentum fueled by a belief we share: that ALL students matter.
The year 2025 for the Grand Island Public Schools (GIPS) Foundation—the voice of RISE—was not merely a cycle of programs. It was a powerful crescendo of community support transforming into tangible, life-changing opportunities. From the generosity of a single teacher’s legacy to the collective power of over 11,000 alumni and friends, every RISE story confirmed the Foundation's core belief: ALL STUDENTS MATTER.
GIPS Foundation Staff (left to right) Candi Wiemers, Kari Hooker-Leep, Kari Price and Mandy Sullivan
We finished the year stronger, more innovative, and more connected than ever before. Every achievement was a direct result of the partnership between our dedicated GIPS staff, our visionary donors, and every single community member who shows up for our kids.
Think about the sheer scale of the dreams we unlocked: We awarded 182 scholarships totaling nearly $698,000 to the Class of 2025. That number isn't just a financial marker; it represents 182 individual promises kept. It’s the peace of mind for a family, the removal of a barrier for a talented student, and a direct investment in the future workforce of Grand Island. When we look at how far we’ve come in 40 plus years, it proves that when we pool our resources, our impact is exponential.
But our work isn't just about the finish line. It’s about what happens every day in our buildings. That’s where the power of our Classroom Grant Program shines. We injected numerous high-impact grants directly into the hands of our creative teachers, bringing real-world learning to over 6,300 students.
I think of the students at Walnut Middle School, who didn't just study atmospheric science—they will get to literally launch a pico-balloon around the globe. That is a hands-on, unforgettable education. At Shoemaker Elementary a grant created a specialized sensory space ensuring that students facing unique challenges have a calm, secure environment to learn and succeed. Beyond the classroom grants one of my favorite 2025 moments was giving a child a specialized communication device was not just a kind act; it gave a student a voice, and that is an immeasurable return on investment. This was made possible through the Embree “Em” Learned Memorial Fund.
This life-changing work requires significant resources. The resounding success of our Harvest Event, raising a record-breaking $177,000, was more than just a fundraiser—it was a declaration of community unity. And what speaks louder about commitment than the 85% participation rate in our Staff Giving Campaign? Our teachers and staff are investing their own dollars because they believe in this mission.
So, what does this tell us about 2026?
It tells us we are ready to GO! Our 2025 success is the foundation upon which we will build our ambitious goals for 2026. We are ready to double down on our innovation, expand our direct student support, and deepen the connections between both our students and our incredible alumni network.
This is our collective story, and I am personally inviting you to be an even bigger part of the next chapter. Thank you for making 2025 a year of rising tides for all GIPS students. Let's make 2026 the year we truly soar.
If you're going to live, leave a legacy. Make a mark on the world that can't be erased. - Maya Angelou
Foundation Focus
Radio Waves of Opportunity for Walnut Students
Administration & Development Associate
GIPS Foundation
The Bill and Bea Southard Endowed Fund is breaking down financial barriers and fueling opportunities for Walnut Middle School students. Thanks to the fund, three members of the Walnut DC Diplomats are pursuing their HAM amateur radio licenses.
This support covers the essential costs for the test, FCC license, and a radio for each student, transforming a technical interest into a powerful tool for civic action. With their licenses, these students will become invaluable community assets, assisting with the Harvest of Harmony Parade, coordinating cross-country races, providing communications at the state fair, and submitting critical weather reports monitored by NOAA. This initiative empowers students to gain technical skills and serve their community in a vital, hands-on way.
The Walnut DC Diplomats program itself, led by Walnut Middle School teachers Mr. Tyler Madison and Mr. Benjamin Marten, is a year-long, community-based endeavor focused on student leadership development, thus aligning perfectly with the HAM radio project with its goal of exposing students to different types of community service. Mr. Marten said, “The students who have their HAM radio license will have additional service opportunities. We want them to help provide communication at big community events such as races, the state fair, the Harvest of Harmony Parade, as well as emergency communication during severe weather events.”
Walnut teacher Benjamin Marten with students during HAM radio testing.
Mr. Madison and Mr. Marten didn’t want economic constraints to stand in the way of their students from achieving their HAM radio certifications, so they applied for a Compassion Grant from the Grand Island Public Schools Foundation and were awarded the Bill and Bea Southard Grant that helped pay for the students’ certification process. Mr. Marten said, “We started this program after learning about a guy who launches balloons that circumnavigate the globe while he tracks it with his HAM Radio. There are three levels of certification: Technician (entry level), General, and Amateur Extra. Our students took their Technician license exam. In order to use the frequencies to fly balloons around the world you need a General License, so as the students were testing for their technician, I got my General license.” Addison Stahl-Victory, one of three students to get certified with her amateur HAM radio certification stated, “I was encouraged to get my HAM licenses because not many kids my age are interested in this kind of stuff. It was an opportunity I wouldn't have if I wasn't offered.”
The Grand Island Public Schools Foundation Compassion Grant—Bill and Bea Southard Endowed Fund is an invaluable resource, serving as a catalyst for meaningful, real-life learning opportunities that extend far beyond the traditional classroom setting that might not otherwise be possible within standard school budgets. This particular fund specifically empowers innovative projects that foster empathy and community involvement among students. The Bill and Bea Southard Endowed Fund allows for students to gain hands-on, technical skills while making tangible connections to the broader world. This educational investment translates directly into practical, engaging experiences that build character, technical competence, and a lasting spirit of service. Making the Walnut HAM radio project a perfect fit for the Bill and Bea Southard Endowed Fund to support the endeavor.
No stranger to life’s challenges Bea Southard not only understood the value of education, but how to break down barriers for more meaningful educational experiences. Southard's reputation extended far beyond the classroom, earning deep respect and admiration from her colleagues. They recognized her unwavering passion for education and commitment to her students, noting her continuous pursuit of post-graduate education to stay abreast of new teaching trends that could benefit her students. One peer noted her remarkable capacity to elevate every child, observing, "She taught misbehaving students to behave; disrespectful students to respect others and themselves; low-achieving students to achieve, and high-achieving students to achieve more.” Her exceptional dedication extended beyond academics; as another colleague summarized, “students were considered 'her kids' and she taught them not just subject matter, but also character, kindness, and how to rise above adversity and succeed."
Certified HAM radio operators (from left to right) Gabby Cortez Moreno, Addison Stahl-Victory and Henry Hines.
Bea and her husband Bill were educators that thought outside the box to provide ever evolving educational practices to better serve their students. Following in those pioneering footsteps, Walnut teachers—Mr. Madison and Mr. Marten, are striving to provide that same level educational experience for their students. Encouraged by her teachers, DC Diplomat Gabriela Cortez Moreno was certified this December, she said, “My teachers talked to me about trying things outside of my comfort zone, and I usually do art, so I saw HAM radio as an opportunity to push myself to do new things and challenge myself.”
The Grand Island Public Schools Foundation is honored to serve as the link that channels funds from philanthropic community members directly to educators and students. To learn more about our Compassion Grants and how you can be a part of providing ongoing educational opportunities please visit here:
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I've Been Thinking
Framed Class Photos Part of GISH Tradition
Class of 1968
Alumni Liaison
Rise’s “At the Top” story is a link to information about progress marching forward: The ongoing remodeling and renovations going on at Senior High and elsewhere in the district. GIPS is updating its facilities and Senior High is a big part of the plan. I was happy to see the planetarium, such a unique part of GISH, will be getting an upgrade.
The last big construction project of our alma mater on North Lafayette was a multi-year project during the mid-1990s. That’s when two new floors of classrooms (the 500 and 600 wings) were added along with a state-of-the-art weight room, a new gym, technology upgrades including scores of computer drops, and remodeling throughout the old building that gave GISH the look it has today.
I happened to be a one-person journalism department at the time of the makeover. We moved the journalism room from 214 down the hall east to near where the library used to be. The library -- now called the media center -- moved to the north end of the newly-minted 500 wing. While packing up and moving was no picnic, we were grateful. The winter before the construction, snow would accumulate in my office, finding its way through whatever age-related orifice it could find.
The remodel and remake and new digs almost cost GISH one of its signatures, however. The framed photos of the graduating classes which for years had adorned the wall of the school. As construction workers and builders needed the space, they took down the huge frames consisting of hundreds of photos of graduating seniors. I remember wondering where they all could have gone, worried that they had been tossed. After asking around, I found a bunch of them piled haphazardly in a closet, their glass broken, their frames cracked, photos spilling out onto the floor. More were piled in other closets and store rooms.
In those days, those frames containing the entire class were simply a collection of wallet size photos glued to a sturdy piece of something resembling oak tag, then put in a frame with a glass covering. I know this because the frame containing the Class of 1968 -- some of the photos attached, some not -- ended up in my basement. The details of how the frame found its way there are not important and the statute of limitations has passed.
After finding the frames, and with the help of GISH head counselor Larry Uhing and local photographer Hal Maggiore, Senior High still has framed graduating class photos on its wall. The old frames’ photos were assembled well enough that Maggiore could photograph the group. The frames and individual photos are smaller but the tradition remains. Rare are the alumni or class reunions that don't seek out the framed photo of their classes to reminisce, show a child or grandchildren what they looked like as an 18-year old, or maybe just muse a bit on friends from high school.
I like to think that the salvaging of those framed class photos was part of the march of progress.
Photos courtesy of the Foundation's Papparazzo Kari Hooker-Leep
On the Island
Cold Weather Brings Plenty of ‘Dancing’ to GISH
Class of 2026
Student Correspondent
Happy New Year, readers of Rise. Having just wrapped up the holiday season “On the Island,” my classmates and I are grateful for the time we had over break to slow down, rest, and reconnect with our friends and family before the school year resumes. With such a hectic end to the semester, it’s important for students to enjoy the busyness and have some festive fun in the meantime.
One of the fun holiday activities to wrap up the month of December was the Islandaires’ basketball halftime performance–including a few special guests. Seven staff members at GISH were asked by their Islandaire students to participate in an entertaining, holiday-themed routine for the audience at the December 23 varsity boys' basketball game.
Dylan Sundermeier, an accounting teacher, was asked to participate by one of his students. “Performing in front of people and learning dance moves is not my strong suit, but I had some fun. My students enjoyed watching me step outside of my comfort zone, and I’m sure there were some good laughs,” he said.
Islandaires kickline performance with GISH staff
The special performance brought lots of smiles to those supporting the Islanders. While spreading holiday cheer, the Islandaire Dance Team also built great connections and memories for the participating staff members and themselves.
As we moved into the beginning of this new semester, exciting events continued to fill our building. This past weekend, Islanders from all different ages just concluded a very eventful weekend full of dancing. On January 11, the GISH Show Choir held their annual Premiere Night, showcasing all three ensembles as well as the Show Choir Kids Camp participants. Sunday’s performance was our first official appearance with costumes, the show band, and props before we compete in the coming weeks.
Cairee Matzner is a senior in varsity show choir and holds the position of Kids Camp Coordinator. “I first experienced Kids Camp as a third grader, where it opened my eyes to the world of creative performance. Now, serving as a student director and coordinator, it is so meaningful to be involved every step of the way,” she said. Cairee is a very dedicated member of Ultimate Image, and does a spectacular job putting our camp together. “I do all the behind the scenes from selecting songs, choosing the student leaders, developing a design that best fits the show, and guiding my peers to bring this production to life,” she said.
Show Choir Kids Camp
Kids camp has been my personal favorite memory of the month so far and allowed us high schoolers to show future Islanders the excitement in store for them when they reach high school. Our theme for this year’s camp was “Catching Stars,” and I got to lead both the third and fourth grade campers, as well as the full group number. All of the campers, grades Three through Eight, performed an energetic number to a song from “Barbie.” Matzner saw the camp’s effect. “Seeing the impact Kids Camp has on each child–whether it is them finding their voice or simply growing as performers–reminds me why this program is so meaningful and important,” she said. That’s surely what our campers got to experience this weekend as they danced away.
On Saturday night, the Islanders filled the East Gym for the annual Winter Ball. Students across all grades enjoyed the evening. Thanks to the Grand Island Senior High Student Council, this year’s winter ball was one to remember. Daniela Cortes, senior and Student Council president, shared her insight on how these memorable events are planned and carried out each year. “Typically, the Student Council will have to decide a theme and start dedicating meetings to set up decorations and finalize details. This year, the theme was ‘Winter Wonderland’ where many aspects of the decorations highlighted a Christmas tree forest, Santa's sleigh and chimney, and a cozy winter scenery. Additionally, we decided on the DJ and photo booth that was used for the night,” she said. Walking through the doors on Saturday night was truly enchanting, and the Student Council’s hard work was evident. I loved seeing their planning and preparation pay off.
Entrance to Winter Ball created by GISH Student Council
On the morning of Winter Ball, some students showed up quite early for the dance. “Student Council members showed up from 8 a.m. to noon and decorated the hallways. We collaborated and adapted as needed to ensure the evening became an unforgettable experience for all students. I absolutely enjoy setting up the dance each year as it is rewarding to see how students enjoy the decorations that elevate their night,” Cortes said. We are so lucky at GISH to have members of the student body like Daniela who are so dedicated to creating enjoyable experiences for their peers. Their leadership adds a special essence to the events like these on our campus.
As we continue to journey through the cold months, my peers and I will be making the most out of our winter, dancing from one semester into the next. There is so much in store for my fellow Islanders and me as we move forward. For my graduating class, it will be the last semester we get to spend at GISH, and we’ll use it to make some memories. In the meantime, GISH students will be braving the cold and giving the rest of the school year their all. Let’s finish strong.
A Distant Mirror
Class of 1967
Rise Contributor
Sports Shorts
As readers of “A Distant Mirror” know, I have been a passionate sports fan all my life. Over the years I have observed many changes in the sporting world, some wonderful and some troubling. Following are a few random observations about sports today:
Television Coverage
Gazing back into the Distant Mirror, in the 1950’s, and early 1960’s, Grand Island had three television stations, and generally one baseball game of the week on Saturday, one college football game on Saturday, and one NFL game on Sunday. Today a sports fan has an incredible sporting feast at his or her disposal. Hundreds of college football and basketball games, and virtually every NBA game are televised. Volleyball, hockey, golf, baseball, and soccer matches (both foreign and domestic) are also ubiquitous.
One can usually find some way to view one’s favorite team. This is glorious, but upon occasion, this can feel like too much ice cream. Having my choice of five different college football games on Saturday is almost too much.
Uniforms
To me this seems like an era of terrific uniforms, particularly in college and pro football. The bright colors dazzle but are tasteful and aesthetically pleasing. Check out the Rams and 49er’s uniforms for example. And while baseball in the 1970’s strayed off into some goofy colors and styles, those have generally been replaced by more dignified uniforms, often returning to the traditional uniforms of the past.
Fantasy Leagues
The explosion of fantasy leagues has brought joy and a new way to engage with the sport for many fans. I regularly participate in two fantasy football leagues, a fantasy baseball league (that began in 1979), an English Premier League soccer fantasy league, and a Formula 1 racing fantasy league. The on-line leagues provide real time updates and are wonderful.
The Stadium Experience
In the past decade, I have attended professional and college sporting events at a wide variety of stadiums, from Craven Cottage in London (home of the Fulham Football Club) to Fenway Park to Target Field in Minneapolis to Memorial Stadium in Lincoln to the Rose Bowl in Pasadena to Dodger Stadium, SoFi Stadium, and Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. Craven Cottage and Fenway are pleasing, compact, iconic venues, each dating back over 110 years. One feels like one has walked back in time to a different century. SoFi, on the other end of the spectrum, is the new mega football and concert venue in L.A., home of the Rams and Chargers, while Crypto.com (formerly the Staples Center) is the home arena for the Lakers.
While the amenities, food selection, and souvenir options at SoFi and Crypto.com are quite good, I have observed two troubling developments. First is the ridiculously high cost of a ticket. I took my grandson to SoFi to see the Chargers-Raiders game on November 30. The cheapest seats, in the highest nosebleed section cost over $200. The average seats cost about $400-$500. Seats in the bottom bowl ten rows from the field cost $800 and more. A recent “New Yorker” article noted that the yearly rent for a SoFi suite seating 12 people or so, is $1 million with a minimum ten-year commitment required. Stub Hub seats for the upcoming February 7 Lakers-Warriors game at Crypto.com are a huge draw with many wishing to see Warriors’ Steph Curry and company. The cheapest seats are selling for $438 per seat, while a few seats very near the court are listed for over $8,000. For one seat!
Chargers vs Raiders at Los Angeles Sofi Stadium
At the game at So Fi, I saw people from all walks of life, some looking well healed, but many just regular working folks. How they can afford these prices is a mystery to me.
Equally distressing to me is the continuous cacophony of noise, loud music, and flashing lights that assault the senses at SoFi. It is as if the owners don’t trust the game itself to entertain the fans. They feel obliged to be playing loud music, with ear numbing thunderous bass, accompanied by a screaming announcer and flashing lights. At each third down, the announcer would scream “THIRD DOWN” accompanied by huge lights from the massive screen that hangs above the playing field flashing in 50 feet high letters, “THIRD DOWN.” Yeah, I knew that. I have been watching.
Even at Dodger Stadium there are games, songs, and flashing lights on the scoreboard between innings, not giving one a minute of solace. What happened to the lazy casual pace of a baseball game at which you could actually converse with your companions. My experience at Memorial Stadium in Lincoln has been far more pleasant, but even in Lincoln, there seems to be a compulsion to assault you with music and screaming announcers.
Another growing phenomenon that has gotten out of control is that more and more, fans feel they have to stand up to show their support and devotion to their team. I have been at soccer matches in England where some parts of the stands stand the entire game. In the World Series, I saw many Dodger fans standing for inning after inning. I much prefer sitting, so everyone can see. How can you jump up to celebrate a great play when you are already standing.
Nebraska Women’s Volleyball Team
The Nebraska women’s volleyball team has been a force and power in college volleyball for three decades, winning national titles in 1995, 2000, 2006, 2015, and 2017. On August 30, 2023, they played Omaha at Memorial Stadium before 92,003 fans. This was and remains the largest crowd ever for any women’s sporting event in world history. In 2024, they again made the final four and were leading Penn State two sets to one in the national semi-finals, before losing the next three sets to be ousted. Very painful.
Members of the 2024 Husker Volleyball Team
This year the team was even more loaded with talent. They waltzed through the regular season undefeated, and indeed went on a 15-match run, starting September 20, in which they swept every match 3-0. They were ranked number one in the country the entire year. It was a very likeable team, supportive of each other, ebullient, and remarkably athletic.
Seeded number one in the nation, they won their first three tournament matches to make the “elite” eight. In the regular season, they defeated each of the other number one seeds: Penn State, Pittsburgh and Kentucky. They played Texas A&M in the regional final in Lincoln. But alas, with a couple of injuries, their star setter Bergan Reilly playing, but ill with the flu, they lost in five painful sets. A&M went on to win the national title, defeating Kentucky in three straight sets. This one really hurt.
College Football
Over the years, I have found college football to be one of the most enjoyable sports. College football benefits by the identification with the state or city in which the college is located, the support of alumni and current students, the pageantry of a beautiful afternoon, the bands, the cheerleaders, and the half-time shows. Much of that joy remains, and this year’s playoffs were highly entertaining.
But a part of the enjoyment has been that these are student athletes. They must attend class. Football was an extracurricular activity that not only brought joy to them, their fans, alumni, and the whole college, but also earned them scholarships to offset the cost of college.
But changes over the last few years have lessened the feeling that we are watching student athletes. When athletes get millions of dollars from the “name, image and likeness” policy (NIL), they become paid professionals. The “Wall Street Journal” reported that payments this year to Ohio State’s football team, through both outside endorsements and money from boosters, totaled $35 million. Carson Beck, the Miami University quarterback who helped defeat Ohio State in the playoffs, was paid $4 million this year.
Carson Beck
The other troubling development is that college players now transfer from college to college at will under the “portal policy,” to get the best deal. The constant transferring creates a loss of continuity in a program. It reminds me of the line in “The Wizard of Oz” when Dorothy says, “People come and go so quickly around here.”
The 1969 Harvard versus Yale game, in my sophomore year in college, was extraordinary. Harvard and Yale were both undefeated. Trailing 29-13 with less than two minutes left, led by substitute junior quarterback Frank Champi, Harvard rallied with two touchdowns and two 2-point conversions to tie the game 29-29. But Frank Champi thought his studies were more important, and in his senior year, he did not even go out for football. He was a student athlete.
The other disastrous development in college football is the realignment of conferences. Conferences used to represent a geographical area. This had the advantage of relatively short travel in your conference, with rivals in nearby states or cities. But with the Big Ten and SEC expanding massively and accepting renegades from other conferences, all that has changed. Now the Big Ten stretches from Los Angeles to Seattle to New Jersey. Similarly, the ACC stretches from Berkeley to Miami. The historic Pac 12 conference along the West Coast disappeared altogether. Long-standing rivalries and historical battles have fallen by the wayside.
Final Take
While the inevitable march of time changes things, some for the better and some for the worse, sports remain a huge joy for many of us.
A Wandering Writer's World
Travel Can Bring Us Together, Even When We’re Apart
Class of 2008
Rise Contributor
The holidays looked a little different for the Kuta clan this year.
For as long as I can remember, our whole family has gathered at my parents’ house in Grand Island for Christmas. But, this year, my parents packed up and shipped out, opting to ditch Nebraska’s bone-chilling cold and overcast skies for an off-season cruise through the mild Mediterranean instead.
In the weeks leading up to their trip, I could tell my mom was excited. But I also sensed a bit of apprehension about how their vacation was disrupting our typical traditions. No tree, no cookies, no late nights spent finishing the Christmas puzzle, no bird-watching out the kitchen window, no Grandma rolls, no living room screenings of “The Muppet Christmas Carol.” I knew my mom was worried, at least a little bit, about missing those opportunities to reconnect.
But as their trip got underway, I had a startling realization: Their holiday travels were bringing us together, even though we were thousands of miles apart.
Before they left, we texted back and forth daily—discussing everything from the December weather in the Mediterranean and what they planned to wear to some of the highlights onboard their ship.
When the cruise line got in touch to let them know the cruise had been overbooked, we chatted at length about whether they should take the lucrative offer to switch dates or proceed as planned. (They decided to proceed as planned.) When they got to the airport in Omaha, I shared a few helpful questions they might ask the gate agent to ensure their luggage made it all the way to their final destination. I was flattered that they trusted my judgment and appreciated my opinions.
Once they touched down in Italy, my mom created a shared folder and began uploading photos, so I could see what they were up to as the trip unfolded. Every morning, I’d wake up and eagerly grab my phone to peruse the latest batch of updates—a convenient perk of the eight-hour time difference.
Photos courtesy of Sarah Kuta featuring various family trips.
As I worked away at my writing assignments for the week, I often found myself daydreaming about their experience. I pictured them strolling next to the Colosseum, gazing up at Michelangelo’s masterpiece on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, posing for selfies with the Acropolis in the background. I wondered what my dad—a devout Catholic—thought of the Vatican, and how many fellow travelers (and waiters and cabin stewards and tour guides) my mom had made fast friends with. But also, were they sleeping well? Were they enjoying the food? Were they having any fun?
Even though we live about 400 miles apart, there was something different about them being far from home, across an entire ocean, surrounded by unfamiliar people, languages, foods and customs.
I wasn’t worried about them. They’re experienced world travelers who have successfully navigated China, Tibet, France, Central Europe, Mexico and many parts of the United States. They’re resilient and clever and can navigate even the trickiest of situations like pros.
More so, I was thinking of them with tenderness and care. I was excited for them and hoped they were having a good time, that everything about their experience would be as good as they imagined or better. Was this how they felt when I started traveling on my own as a teenager, all those years ago?
We’ve vacationed together as a family many times in the recent past, making fond memories I think of regularly. But it never occurred to me that travel could help us grow closer, even when we weren’t doing it together. It was a true revelation.
I imagine our bond will grow even stronger the next time we all get together and they share tales from the trip. I can’t wait.
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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 IHOP, 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 at 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 at noon of each month at The Finish Line at Fonner Park in Grand Island. Good Friends, Good Food, Good Times.
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1976The class of 1976 is exited to announce their 50th reunion to be held Saturday September 12, 2026 at the Full Circle Venue located at 220 W 3rd St, Grand Island. Informal gathering planned for the Friday evening before, MORE DETAILS to follow.
For questions, shares or update information contact:
Connie (Deitchler) Madison at madcon57@hotmail.com
Anita (Yunk) Lewandowski at anita.lewandowski@gmail.com
In Memoriam
November and December memorial list of GISH Alumni
Halee Melgoza, Class of 2013, died 12/25/2025 at the age of 31.
Andrew Werner, Class of 1987, died 12/24/2025 at the age of 57.
Todd Keller, Class of 1985, died 12/17/2025 in Grand Island, NE at the age of 59.
Eric (Rudy) Christenson, Class of 1979, died 11/7/2025 at the age of 64.
Clifford Niemoth, Class of 1978, died 12/29/2025 in Grand Island, NE at the age of 65.
Pam (Beran) Kendall, Class of 1973, died 12/23/2025 in Grand Island, NE at the age of 70.
Randy Griess, Class of 1969, died 12/9/2025 in Omaha, NE at the age of 74.
John Vipperman, Class of 1968, died 12/2/2025 in Grand Island, NE at the age of 75.
Lonnie Cross, Class of 1966, died 11/17/2025 in Bellevue, NE at the age of 72.
Thelene (Martens) Purvis, Class of 1961, died 11/3/2025 at the age of 82.
Edwin Lindsay, Class of 1958, died 12/16/2025 at the age of 86.
Roberta (Ewoldt) Schipman, Class of 1957, died 12/19/2025 in Grand Island, NE at the age of 86.
Marvin Peters, Class of 1954, died 11/4/2025 in Grand Island, NE at the age of 89.
Bev (Green) Giesenhagen, Class of 1954, died 11/15/2025 at the age of 89.
Ronald Wiese, Class of 1953, died 12/28/2025 at the age of 90.
Donna (Hayman) Guyette, Class of 1953, died 11/23/2025 in Grand Island, NE at the age of 89.
Milvern Noffke, Class of 1950, died 12/10/2025 in Hampton, NE at the age of 93.
Joan (Joanie) (Wetzel) Patrick, Class of 1949, died 11/6/2025 in Grand Island, NE at the age of 94.
To report an alumni death since December 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.
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: Since this issue has a couple pieces about construction and buildings, let’s see if you can match the five photos below to the following buildings:
Seedling Mile
Grand Island Senior High
West Lawn
Howard
Dodge
Answers:
A-Grand Island Senior High
B-Dodge
C-Howard
D-Seedling Mile
E-West Lawn
Do you have a trivia suggestions for our next edition? We would love to hear from you!
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