HillcrestHillcrestHillcrestSummer/Fall 2011 • Volume 72 • Number 3

A MAGAZINE FOR FRIENDS AND ALUMNI OF HILLCREST ACADEMYCONNECTION

THECLASS OF

2011

SO MUCH MORETHAN A DIPLOMA

SO

THAN A DIPLOMATHAN A DIPLOMATHAN A DIPLOMATHAN A DIPLOMALIVE. LEARN. GO.

I remember a book I read some years ago for a seminary course on apologetics, entitled “Faith Founded on Facts.” I like that title. Faith, as defi ned by the writer of Hebrews is being sure

of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. (Heb. 11:1) Our Christian worldview is centered on faith, which is based on facts that are found in the truth of God’s Word.

This year’s graduation weekend gave solid evidence that Hillcrest graduates have been equipped to not only share their faith, but to defend their faith. Seniors, through video vignettes, shared personal testimonies of how their faith had been grounded in the facts of God’s Word. They expressed a growing confi dence “to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” (1 Pet. 3:15)

Hillcrest Lutheran Academy seeks to equip students for a life of signifi cance. Much of this training includes sharing, articulating, and defending our faith in Jesus

Christ. It is a privilege to be part of a mission statement in a high school setting where students receive so much more than a diploma.

This issue of the Hillcrest Connection features the Hillcrest Graduation Weekend, and provides an update on the Fresh Breeze capital campaign. God continues to provide for the needs of the school, evidenced in the steady support from alumni, churches, and friends. Thank you for your partnership!

Sincerely,

Steven J. Brue, HLA President

Dear Alumni and Friends,

GREETING2

CONTENTS

4

7

8

10

HillcrestCONNECTION

FeatureGrad Weekend 2011

FocusLieutenant ColonelShawn Stroud

FinanceHLA Heritage SocietyHLA Legacy ClubClub Members

Campaign Fresh Breeze Update

11

12

Campus News HIT Basketball & Golf

Alumni News Alumni of the Year2011 ReunionsAlumni Updates

HILLCREST ACADEMY BOARD OF DIRECTORS

DWIGHT SCHMIDT | Chair Jamestown, ND

DAVE EGGE | Vice Chair Alexandria, MN

ROD SCHEEL | Secretary Fergus Falls, MN

RICH IVERSONBarnesville, MN

ANNIE JACOBSENSuccasunna, NJ

KATHY JOHNSONFergus Falls, MN

J. BURDEAN ROGNESSEden Prairie, MN

LISA SCHULTZ-FREDFergus Falls, MN

OLAV SANDNESMt. Bethel, PA

FRESH BREEZE CAMPAIGN CABINET

OLAV & GINA SANDNESCampaign Co-Chairs

ELLING & BARBARA HALVORSONHonorary Co-Chairs

DWIGHT SCHMIDTHLA Board Chair

LISA FREDHLA Board Member

BURDEAN ROGNESSHLA Board Member

STEVE BRUEHLA President

NICK ROBERTSAlumni ‘05

CAROL STUCKERAlumni ‘81

DEAN STOUTLANDAlumni ‘76

RANDY TRETTEVIKAlumni ‘76

KEVEN CRABTREEBusiness Leader

KERMIT KVAMMEAlumni Parent

STEVE UNDSETHFaculty Representative

MISSION STATEMENTThe mission of Hillcrest Lutheran Academy is to equip students in a Christ-centered, Bible-based environment for a life of signifi cance.

Summer/Fall 2011

Hillcrest Connection is published triannually by Hillcrest Academy.

Hillcrest Lutheran Academy610 Hillcrest Drive

Fergus Falls, MN 56537

STEVE BRUE | President Editor-in-Chief

sbrue@ffhillcrest.org

RYAN ERICKSONManaging Editor/Graphic Design

rerickson@ffhillcrest.org

LINDA PATCH Alumni Relations

lpatch@ffhillcrest.org

• Seventh Baccalaureate/Commencement Service to be held in the HLA Student Activities Center - Sunday morning, May 29.

• 53 graduates of the Class of 2011 received the Hillcrest Diploma.

• HLA Golden Alumni of the Class of 1961 received their recognition pins.

• Twenty-eight Danielsen students received HLA Certifi cates of Completion for their one-year educational experience.

• Lieutenant Colonel Shawn Stroud, father of one of the graduates, and Director for Communications of NATO Training Mission, serving in Kabul, Afghanistan gave the commencement address.

THECLASS OF

2011TRULY MY SOUL FINDS REST IN GOD;MY SALVATION COMES FROM HIM.TRULY HE IS MY ROCK AND MY SALVATION; HE IS MY FORTRESS, I WILL NEVER BE SHAKEN.

PSALM 62:1-2

2011 GRADUATION HIGHLIGHTS

4 FEATURE

»

• President Brue announced that the remaining $977,000.00 debt on the Student Activities Center would be paid in full in 2 days, on May 31.

• Various Class reunion gatherings hosted throughout the weekend, bringing alumni from all over the nation.

• Guests enjoyed a Friday evening Concert featuring the HLA Band, Jazz Ensemble, Choir, and Vocalise Ensemble.

• The Hillcrest Alumni Brunch was held Saturday morning with a record turnout of alumni in the Student Activities Center. President Brue gave an update on the Fresh Breeze campaign to alumni in attendance.

• A Senior Honors Program and Banquet took place at Bethel Church on Saturday afternoon for the graduates and their families.

• At the Senior Class Night on Saturday evening, Cody Joy gave the Valedictory address, and Marisa Monacelli and Rhoda Christenson provided the Salutatory addresses.

• Many thanks to the parents and grandparents who participated in a special love offering honoring the 2011 graduates.

Congratulations, Class of 2011!

The class of 2011 looks on as LTC Shawn Stroud, father of 2011 graduate Grant Stroud, delivers the commencement address.

First Row - Allison Steinle, Fergus Falls, MN; Anna Saufferer, Mill Creek, WA; Laura Basile, Succasunna, NJ; Marisa Monacelli, Mt. Arlington, NJ; Angela Holmen, Fergus Falls, MN; Heather Furuseth, Rochester, MN; Kylee Haegeland, Lake Stevens, WA; Joo Hee (Olivia) Choi, S. Korea; Annalise Boyum, Ossian, IA.

Second Row – Carley Fabian, Fergus Falls, MN; Ahna Lacey, Wendell, MN; Lauren Abel, Fergus Falls, MN; Talia Pearson, Fergus Falls, MN; Rachel Olson, Beaumont, AB; Jenna Barkey, Succasunna, NJ; Mollie Jacobsen, Succasunna, NJ; Taylor Brue; Fergus Falls, MN; Catherine Jacoby, Eau Claire, WI; Calli Thiel, Wendell, MN.

Third Row – Siqi Feng, China; Chloe Ell, Fergus Falls, MN; Heather Frustol, Budd Lake, NJ; Krista Kugler, Erhard, MN; Julia Miller, Mt. Bethel, PA; Andrea Christenson, Fergus Falls, MN; Rhoda Christenson, Fergus Falls, MN; Sara Christianson, Fergus Falls, MN.

Fourth Row – Tae-Gyu Park, S. Korea; Christopher Christenson, Fergus Falls, MN; Daniel Tungseth, Fergus Falls, MN; Grant Stroud, Moorhead, MN; Zachary Taylor, Fergus Falls, MN; Ye Chen (David) Baek, S. Korea; Seong Nyeon (David) Kim, S. Korea; Ju Chan Kim, S. Korea; Christina Hardie, Fairmount, ND.

Fifth Row – Cody Joy, Fergus Falls, MN; Soo-Bin Kim, S. Korea; Wilner Twedt, Fergus Falls, MN; Ye Chen (Chris) Ryu, S. Korea; Seong Won Choi, S. Korea; Tory Brue, Bloomington, MN; Younghak Jang, S. Korea; Jae-Heum Hwang, S. Korea; Joshua Simpson, Chester, NJ.

Sixth Row – David Asche, Milnor, ND; Andrew Stender, Fergus Falls, MN; Joshua Wolderich, Ferndale, WA; Andrew Twedt, Fergus Falls, MN; Jacob Jones, Walker, MN; Tore Falch, Brooklyn, NY; Ye Ram Cho, S. Korea; Michael Stilwell, Fergus Falls, MN.

WATCH VIDEO TESTIMONIES FROM THE CLASS OF 2011 ONLINE AT WWW.FFHILLCREST.ORG/SIGNIFICANT

5FEATURE

FROMGRAD

WEEKEND 2011

SCENES

ALUMNI BRUNCH

»

Congratulations to Cody Joy, Valedictorian, and Rhoda Christenson & Marisa Monacelli, Co-Salutatorians. Cody will be studying electrical engineering at LeTourneau University; Rhoda will attend M-State in Fergus Falls; Marisa will attend Eastern University.

VALEDICTORIAN & SALUTATORIANS

»

The 2011 Alumni Brunch was a blast. Over 200 HLA & LBS alumni and friends gathered together to enjoy great food, music and fellowship. The continuing ministry of Hillcrest Academy was celebrated as guests recalled plenty of fond memories.

»A student-led Bible study group from the class of 2011 stops to get a picture together. (L-R) Jacob Jones, Rhoda Christenson,

Chris Christenson, Annalise Boyum, Rachel Olson, Catherine Jacoby, Chloe Ell, Christina Hardie, Siqi Feng.

LIFELONG FRIENDSHIPS

»

28 students from the Danielsen School in Bergen, Norway received completion certificates for their one-year exchange program with Hillcrest. The 2010-2011

school year marked the 22nd anniversary of this exchange program.

NORWEGIAN STUDENTS

6 FEATURE

LIEUTENANT COLONEL

SHAWN STROUD

HILLCREST FATHER TAKES A BREAK FROM THE FRONT LINES TO DELIVER THE 2011 COMMENCEMENT ADDRESS

Continued on next page

If there was an award for the longest distance traveled to speak at a Hillcrest graduation ceremony, it would have to go to Shawn Stroud. Lieutenant Colonel Stroud has been serving our nation in the military for over 25 years. He is currently the Director of Communications for the NATO Training Mission – Afghanistan, headquartered in Kabul, Afghanistan.

Lt. Col. Stroud’s military experience includes serving as a platoon leader, a company commander, an intelligence officer, instructor, public affairs officer, professor

of military science and now director for strategic communication. He has received numerous awards and decorations throughout his military career.

The Stroud family has a long Hillcrest history. Shawn's wife, Amy (Throdahl), is a '82 HLA graduate, along with each of their four children, Ryan ('02), Jake ('05), Amanda ('07), and Grant ('11). In his address, Colonel Stroud shared the commitment he and Amy made while watching their eldest son graduate that each of their chldren would have the opportunity to attend Hillcrest. In fulfillment of this commitment, Shawn handed a diploma to Grant, his youngest son, as he walked across the stage this year.

Colonel Stroud shared three biblical truths with the class of 2011, each of which had an accompanying visual aid from Afghanistan to help illustrate. The first was "you are never alone," represented by an Afghani shepherd's staff which provides both assistance and protection for the owner. The staff was inlayed with gems for each year of the shepherd's life to symbolize the transition from young boy to village elder. Stroud recalled Psalm 23, where David says "I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me."

The second illustration was a special stone intended to remind the graduates that they are always loved. Colonel Stroud shared a necklace carrying a stone called watermelon tourmaline, a rare gem found only in a certain

7FOCUS

LegacyLegacyLegacyHLA

LegacyHLAHLAHLA

Legacyclubclubclubclub

LegacyLegacyLegacyHLAHLAHLA

LegacyLegacyLegacyHeritageHeritageHeritageHLA

HeritageHLAHLAHLA

Heritagesocietysocietysocietysocietysocietysocietysocietysociety

HeritageHeritageHeritageHLAHLAHLA

HeritageHeritageHeritage

Stanley Arlton EstateKenneth & Mavis Austin John & Cheryl BackstromSteve BenjaminIrv & Kay BergsagelSteve & Linda BrueKeven & Debbie CrabtreeEvelyn Ebner EstateEdward D. Jones & Co.David & Val EggeJoel & Barbara EggeMarian Egge EstateLori FedjeFirst State Bank of Alex-CarlosMabel L. Foss EstateAgnes Freeland Charitable TrustAdleide GunhusG. T. & Ann GunhusElling & Barbara HalvorsonRichard & Linda HegglandRoy & Barbara HegglandHillside Lutheran Brethren MissionsInterstate Inc.Gladys JensenJack & Sharon Lacey

Minnie NelsonNordic Contracting Co, Inc.Olsoe Charitable Remainder TrustClara OlsoeJohn & Donna OlsonWesley & Ruth OrrestadOtter Tail Power CompanyFrank & Karen PellegrinoRon PowellDonald & Marie Roberts Charitable FoundationNicholas & Leann RobertsJ. Burdean & Kay RognessDarren RognessLaWayne & Bev RognessOlav & Gina SandnesSecurity State BankDwight & Gwen SchmidtEwald & Alice SemsNorma SenumEleanor Sollie Thrivent Financial for LutheransVictory Lutheran Brethren ChurchViking Construction Corporation

The Fresh Breeze campaign provides an opportunity for friends of Hillcrest to name the school as a benefi ciary in their estate plans. This is one of the ways that donors may participate in the campaign, through a deferred gift. Already, the campaign has on record over $1 million that will be gifted through estate plans. While estate amounts that are designated for Hillcrest are not included in the campaign goal, a record of these future gifts helps to ensure future support for the school. It also gives Hillcrest the opportunity to thank families who choose to name Hillcrest in their estate planning.

We would love to include any who have named Hillcrest in their estate plans. Please contact President Steve Brue at 218-739-3371 to discuss this further.

The HLA Legacy Club acknowledges individuals

and groups whose accumulative giving reaches

$25,000 or above.

The HLA Heritage Society acknowledges those who have named Hillcrest in an

estate gift.

Stanley Arlton EstateIrv & Kay BergsagelKeven & Debbie CrabtreeEvelyn Ebner EstateJoel & Barbara EggeMarian Egge EstateMabel L. Foss EstateRich & Karen IversonSelma Langeland EstateJohn & Donna OlsonGlenn & Yvonne RognessLaWayne & Beverly RognessDwight & Gwen SchmidtLisa Schultz-FredNorma Senum

Stroud (continued from previous page)

»AFGHANI SHEPHERD'S STAFF

province of Afghanistan. This stone is special because it derives its distinct coloring from the minerals and soil surrounding it. Normally this would be considered a fl aw, but in this case, the beauty of the fi nal result is what gives it value. Stroud drew a comparison to the way Hillcrest students have been created by Christ with a unique makeup and design and placed in unique surroundings to be formed into "one-of-a-kind, priceless jewels that radiate His beauty."

The fi nal truth Colonel Stroud shared with the class of 2011 is that "our strength is found in Him." As a symbol of God's strength, Stroud showed a unique Afghani sword. The students were reminded that the true strength of the

sword is found not in its design or materials, or even the hands of the warrior. Its strength is found in its maker, who masterfully blends all of the required elements. Colonel Stroud exhorted the students to fi nd their strength in Christ using Paul's words in 2 Corinthians 12:9-10.

At the close of his address, Colonel Stroud presented the Afghani shepherd's staff as a gift to Hillcrest on behalf of the over one hundred thousand service men and women serving in Afghanistan. A custom presentation case is being created for this wonderful gift and it will be displayed in the Hillcrest building. Hillcrest would like to thank Lieutenant Colonel Stroud for his service and his willingness to bring the 2011 commencement address.

FINANCE8

Anonymous (4)George & Alice Aase Fergus Falls, MNPeter & Katie Aasness Fergus Falls, MNKathi Abel Fergus Falls, MNGuy & Beth Adams Lexington, KYErik & Janet Ambjor Succasunna, NJHans & Kari Andersen East Wenatchee, WARoy & Marie Barsness Kirkland, WAJoseph & Susan Battillo Mount Bethel, PAIrv & Kay Bergsagel Minnetonka, MNTim & Mary Bigelow Erhard, MNEthan & Carla Bjornlie Fergus Falls, MNOlive Blikstad Fergus Falls, MNJoyce Boehland Arvada, CORoger & Kay Borowski Campbell, MNDoug & Nancy Bounds Jamestown, NDCathy Brokke Minneapolis, MNNick & Dahlia Brue St. Paul, MNCharlie & Carrie Brue Fergus Falls, MNBenjamin Brue Fergus Falls, MNHans Brue Bloomington, MNMatthew & Faith Brue St. Louis Park, MNLindsey Brue St. Paul, MNSteve & Linda Brue Fergus Falls, MNTom & Kari Brue Bloomington, MNTitus & Ashley Brue Lino Lakes, MNArlen Brunsvold Naperville, ILThor & Edna Bugge Willow Street, PALorraine Burt Chicago, ILJohn & Larissa Campbell Edmonton, OKArt & Betty Christenson Fergus Falls, MNDavid & Dagney Christenson Lynnwood, WADavid & Eunice Christenson Fergus Falls, MNJoel & Liz Christenson Fergus Falls, MNScott & Val Christenson Fergus Falls, MNLane & Lori Christopherson Everett, WACountless Energy Wahpeton, NDKeven & Debbie Crabtree Fergus Falls, MNDan & Lita Crowley Marysville, WADave & Vicki Crowser Fergus Falls, MNClair & Sharon Daines Bozeman, MTLeif & Sonja Dalen Mt. Bethel, PAThelma P. Dalene East Hartland, CTSteve & Kathy Doering Fergus Falls, MNDavid & Val Egge Alexandria, MNJoel & Barbara Egge Fergus Falls, MNChuck & Penny Eidem Altadena, CASpencer Endrud Buxton, NDJohn Endrud Loves Park, ILRich & Jeanene Engebretson Edina, MNGerald & Sheri Erickson Mukilteo, WAElroy & Judy Erickson Fargo, NDRyan & Kristin Erickson Fergus Falls, MNMicah Erickson Banning, CAGary & Cynthia Erickson Dalton, MNEric Ewan Fergus Falls, MNCarol Featherstone New Hope, MNLori Fedje Beaverton, ORLawn Pro of Fergus Falls Fergus Falls, MNDr. Allan Fischer Hillsboro Beach, FLMark & Joan Folden San Jose, CAGay & Carol Folden Fergus Falls, MNDavid & Ruthann Forland Huntington, NYE. Thor & Lillian Foss Southold, NYMark & Joanne Foss Glastonbury, CTAllen & Goldie Foss Everett, WAMasson Family Foundation Laguna Beach, CAKevin & Lisa Fred Fergus Falls, MNSharon Fuhrman Joice, IAWayne & Ruth Goats Scottsdale, AZGT & Ann Gunhus Underwood, MN

Richard & Diane Gunhus Blue Earth, MNAdleide Gunhus Fergus Falls, MNVictoria Hackett San Francisco, CARoy & Heather Haegeland Lake Stevens, WAElling & Barbara Halvorson Woodinville, WAEvelyn Hansen Snohomish, WATore & Vivian Hansen Mt. Bethel, PALuke & Angela Hansen Edina, MNLes & Sandy Hanson Fergus Falls, MNDonald & Saundra Haugen Marysville, WAGreg & Rita Hayek Fergus Falls, MNKim Hazel Eden Prairie, MNJoy Headrick Denver, CODavid & Beverly Heggen Rothsay, MNRich & Linda Heggland New Port Richey, FLAmanda Heggland Farmington, CTPaul & Sheri Hohncke Fergus Falls, MNDiane Ihrke Fergus Falls, MNGary & Renee Isaac Denver, COJeff & Missi Isaac Fergus Falls, MNRich & Karen Iverson Barnesville, MNMartha Jacobs Seatonville, ILHerb & Helen Jacobsen Mt. Bethel, PAElizabeth Jacobsen Minnetonka, MNJohn & Annie Jacobsen Succasunna, NJKen & Ann Jensen Huntington, NYGladys Jensen Staten Island, NYEdgar & Myrtle Jensen Mt. Bethel, PARichard & Carol Johnson Willow City, NDTim & Karen Johnson Little Falls, MNFred & Elsie Johnson Boone, IADennis & Kathleen Johnson Fergus Falls, MNBrent & Ruth Juliot Fergus Falls, MNElmer & Julia Kaardal Saint Paul, MNCurtis & Elaine Kavlie Richville, MNVaughn & Deb Kavlie Eden Prairie, MNJohn & Janet Kilde Fergus Falls, MNKermit & Grace Kvamme Fergus Falls, MNKevin Kvamme Williston, NDScott & Becky Kvamme Fergus Falls, MNPhilip & Marilyn Labrosse Saint Paul, MNAndy & Brenda Lacey Wendell, MNJack & Sharon Lacey Wendell, MNPaul & Jane Langseth Fergus Falls, MNMorris & Myrt Larsen Fergus Falls, MNJosiah Larson Minneapolis, MNVictory LB Church Jamestown, NDHillside LB Missions Succasunna, NJMatthew & Sue Leach Omaha, NEFrank & Elaine Legerat Fairbanks, AKBrian & Jennifer Leivestad Loveland, COCarol & Michael Lewin Keizer, ORPatricia Linson Fargo, NDLloyd & Thelma Listor Brooklyn, NYSteve & Heidi Listor Mt. Bethel, PAHarry Ludvigsen Kerhonkson, NYJoel & Alice Lunde Fergus Falls, MNDorothy Madsen Fergus Falls, MNJeffrey & Eileen Mahn Albuquerque, NMBrad & Trena Martinson Fergus Falls, MNLuther & Adeline Mathison Maddock, NDJohn & Lisa McAteer Mt. Bethel, PABruce & Irene Miller Jr. Mt. Bethel, PATom & Gladys Moline Erhard, MNTom & Bobbi Monacelli Mt. Arlington, NJAlice Monsen Richfi eld, MNSolveig Nelson Fergus Falls, MNWallace & Audrey Ness Fergus Falls, MNWilliam & Marcia Nilsen East Hartland, CTPeter & Lillian Nilsen Brewster, NYJoseph & Berit Olafson Louisville, KY

Clara Olsoe Seattle, WAManley & Janet Olsoe Fergus Falls, MNJohn & Donna Olson Fergus Falls, MNWesley & Ruth Orrestad Bellevue, WAGraham & Priscilla Parker Richland, WAKevin & Linda Patch Fergus Falls, MNRollin & Beverly Pederson Billings, MTKenneth & Norma Peeders Richville, MNFrank & Karen Pellegrino Mt. Bethel, PAIrv & Helen Peterson Menomonie, WIEd & Elaine Peterson Wahpeton, NDWayne & Diane Preston Fergus Falls, MNGregg & Marie Preston Fergus Falls, MNLowell & Paula Quam Fergus Falls, MNLeRoy & MaryAnn Quernemoen Fergus Falls, MNNick & Leann Roberts Houlton, WIDonald & Marie Roberts Trust White Bear Lake, MNLes & LeAnn Rogness Fergus Falls, MNDarren Rogness Moorhead, MNLoran & Lois Rogness Fergus Falls, MNBurdean & Kay Rogness Eden Prairie, MNLee & Lavonne Rogness Fergus Falls, MNLaWayne & Bev Rogness Fergus Falls, MNKevin & Brooke Rogness Fergus Falls, MNGlenn & Vonnie Rogness Underwood, MNEugene & Rhoda Rubey Eugene, ORRon & Barbara Samuelsen East Hartland, CTDee Sanberg Fergus Falls, MNJack & Rochelle Sand Moorhead, MNWill Sandnes Mt. Bethel, PAOlav & Gina Sandnes Mt. Bethel, PALavona Sather Los Angeles, CALynn & Matthew Scarfo Island City, ORRod & Jo Scheel Fergus Falls, MNErnie & Cathie Scheid Fargo, NDNick & Danielle Schmidt Jamestown, NDDwight & Gwen Schmidt Jamestown, NDLois Seaver Edgerton, WIEwald & Alice Sems Lehigh Acres, FLPaul Senum Brooklyn, NYNorma Senum Mt. Bethel, PAArlen & Julianne Severson Esko, MNJane Shulstad Pelican Rapids , MNLeland Sjule Springfi eld, MOEd & Shirley Smith Laquey, MOJohn & Tess Soholt Golden Valley, MNAlf & June Soholt Minneapolis, MNEleanor Sollie Brooklyn, NYElwood & Marie Sollum Rancho Palos Verdes, CASecurity State Bank Fergus Falls, MNArna Stedjan Fergus Falls, MNWayne & Nancy Stender Fergus Falls, MNDoug & Carol Stender Fergus Falls, MNDan & Eleanor Stenoien Minneapolis, MNDean & Doreen Stoutland Northridge , CARobert & Lorrette Strack Rochester, MNShawn & Amy Stroud Moorhead, MNCarol & Aaron Stucker Paradise Valley, AZDoug & Margarethe Swanson Burnsville, MNWai Nam Tam Flanders, NJGuy & Amy Taylor Fergus Falls, MNJustin & Phyllis Thompson Antler, NDGary & Dorinne Thompson Fergus Falls, MNBorgny & Stan Thompson East Hartland, CTNancy Thompson Boca Raton, FLGeorge & Julie Townsend Mt. Bethel, PARosemary Traina Roxbury, NJRandy & Diane Trettevik Mill Creek, WACordelia Trones Edina, MNGrande Lake Trust Lake Park, MNMark & Cathy Tungseth Fergus Falls, MNRoger & Amy Twedt Fergus Falls, MNLois Tweten Helena, MTBruce & Lori Tysver Fergus Falls, MNMarvin & Opal Undseth Salem, ORSteve & Lois Undseth Fergus Falls, MNMarty & Mim Valder Everett, WARuth Vall Aitkin, MNJames & Lucinda VerSteeg Richfi eld, MNDale & Leanne Vesta Sycamore, ILDavid & Lynn Vettrus Watertown, MNShawn Veum Fergus Falls, MNJason Walkup Fergus Falls, MNLes Watson Fergus Falls, MNAndy & Margaret White Toccoa, GAArthur & Marion Wickstrom Fergus Falls, MNRosalie Williamsen Medical Lake, WAJim & Cheryl Wold Fergus Falls, MNRichard & Oddny Wolderich Bangor, PABette Woodburn Rolling Hils, CA

Club|120

Club Membership

Club|500 Club|1000

Club|2500 Club|5000 Club|10000

84 Club Members 84 Club Members46 Club Members

12 Club Members 7 Club Members 4 Club Members

A wonderful way to participate in Fresh Breeze is by joining a Hillcrest giving club. Club members support the school's annual fund, a vital initiative of the $5 million Fresh Breeze campaign.

FINANCE 9

Hillcrest unveiled a signifi cant visionary step this past year by announcing a major capital campaign called the “Fresh Breeze” Campaign. With this unveiling in October of 2010 came the remarkable news of God's provision of a core of signifi cant lead gifts already secured to set the course for a successful campaign. It was announced then that 64% of the $5 million goal had previously been raised. Today, 10 months later, the campaign has exceeded 75% of the goal. The Campaign Cabinet and the HLA Board of Directors have established a timeline of closing the campaign at the end of this current school year, in June of 2012.

Already, gifts received through this appeal are being used to meet each of the campaign’s objectives. The remaining $977,000.00 debt on the Student Activities Center, which was built in 2004-05, was retired on May 31st of this year. Endowment accounts have grown so that more student scholarships will be awarded this year. Professional development funds are providing assistance to three HLA employees enrolled in Master’s programs over the summer. Club memberships have doubled since pledges were fi rst made to the campaign, with 230 members now supporting the Annual Fund. The old gym roof has been replaced. Acoustical panels were installed in the Music Room in August, just in time for the return of students. The fi nal thrust of the campaign will be to secure funds for the renovation of the academic center above the old gym, and the installation of an effi cient heating and cooling system.

With the ten months that remain to secure the fi nal 24%, please consider your involvement. God has blessed the gifts already given, as campaign initiatives are being met. There remains an expectant joy of good things to come for Hillcrest in this fi nal year of the campaign.

The roof above the classroom section of the Hillcrest building was replaced this summer. A new layer of insulation is already providing noticable relief for classroom temperature in the summer heat.

Much-needed acoustical treatments have been installed in the music room at Hillcrest.

Renovation of classrooms and the HVAC system remain as the last unfunded initiatives of the Fresh Breeze campaign.

CAMPAIGN UPDATE

76% Received inCash and Pledges

$3.8 Million

$1.2 Million

$5 Million Goal

24% Remains

CAMPAIGN10

(L-R) John Kilde, Aidan Colling, Grant Colling, Kevin Patch

HIT 2011 Division 1A Champions

The following teams won championship plaques in their division:

Division 1A Triumph LB Church, Moorhead, MN Triumph NDSUDivision 2A Blom Prairie, Toronto, SD Toronto 3Classic A Victory LB Church, Jamestown, ND Jamestown 1Classic B Newman Family Newman'sDivision 2B Hillcrest Alumni & Friends FF OttertailDivision 3A Living Word Fellowship, Dickinson, ND DickinsonDivision 3B LB Fellowship Church, Williston, ND Williston Youth

HIT Basketball 2011

A total of 595 players on 60 teams competed in the 45th annual Hillcrest Invitational Tournament (HIT) on April 7-8, 2011.

Pulling off the tournament is always a bit of a logistical challenge for HIT director, Charlie Brue, but it's well worth it. "My favorite part of the tournament is seeing some teams come back year after year," said Brue. This year, 94 games were played on

8 courts in 5 different gyms across Fergus Falls.

Teams came from Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. The majority of the teams are Lutheran Brethren church teams, but many alumni participated as well, organized by class year or by family.

The scheduled date for the 2012 HIT basketball tournament is March 23-

24. Information will be going out to churches and managers in January of 2012. Any new teams (alumni or LB Church) should contact Hillcrest Academy at 218-739-3371 for registration information. Information will also be available on the Hillcrest website at www.ffhillcrest.org/hit.

Hillcrest held its 7th annual golf scramble on June 17th at Pebble Lake Golf Course. Sixty-eight golfers participated in the event which raised nearly $8,000 that will benefi t the Hillcrest athletic program.

After a short-lived downpour at the beginning of the tournament, beautiful weather made for a great afternoon of golf. Seventeen teams enjoyed each other’s company as they swung their clubs, using their best team strategy through 18 holes on the beautiful Pebble Lake course. In a scramble, each team member drives and then all four go to the spot of the best shot, where they all hit again, continuing in this fashion until the ball is in the hole. Truly a team effort, this type of play results in some very low scores. The winner of the Gross Score Award was a team from Thrivent Financial consisting of Kurt Nygaard, Nick Kuehl, Lincoln Kallenberg and Mike Westergard. They fi nished 18 holes with a score of 60 (12 under par) and each received a “red” jacket. The winners of the Net Score Award were Burdean Rogness,

Armin Pipho, Rob Johnson, and Joe Johnson. Their handicapped score of 57 (15 under par) also earned them the coveted Hillcrest-red jackets.

After the golfi ng, everyone was treated to a grilled steak dinner at the Hillcrest Student Activity Center. This meal was prepared and donated by A’viands, Hillcrest’s food service provider. Awards were presented after the dinner and over 70 prizes were given away in a drawing. The prizes included a week stay in a Keystone, Colorado condo, rounds of golf, hotel overnights, golf clubs, gift certifi cates, and apparel, etc., all donated by local businesses and golf courses in Minnesota and North Dakota.

A wide variety of teams were represented at the golf tournament. There were family teams, business teams, alumni teams, and teams of friends from the area. About half of the golfers were alumni of Hillcrest.

Each team paid $400 to participate in the tournament. Through hole sponsorships and other donations,

80% of the costs of the tournament were covered, allowing most of the entry fee to go toward the fundraising goal.

The HIT Golf Scramble will be held again next summer in June. A date will be announced as soon as it can be fi nalized with the golf course.

Thank you to all the golfers, sponsors, and volunteers for your support of Hillcrest Academy!

HIT Golf Scramble 2011

CAMPUS NEWS 11

ALUMNUS

Joseph Burdean Rogness grew up on a farm in Joice, IA. He came to Hillcrest as a freshman at the age of 14, and received his Hillcrest diploma in the spring of 1956. The phrase under his class picture in the Beacon yearbook stated “He doesn’t break rules, he just bends them a little,” followed by “He lends humor and embarrassment to Hillcrest life.”

Following a short stay in the Fargo/Moorhead area, he returned to Iowa to further his education at North Iowa Community College, and also attended Metallurgical Trade School. A door opened for Burdean to enter a Machinist Trade, which occupied the next fi ve years.

Burdean married his high school girlfriend, Kay Soderlund in 1959. Kay was also a graduate of the class of 1956.

Burdean attended a Sales Training Institute which led him into a Career in Sales & Sales Management with Pitney Bowes, Inc. Another door opened up for Burdean to create a company, called Midwest Mailing Systems, which he owned and operated for 24 years and then sold to investors.

Burdean and Kay have lived in the Twin Cites most of their married life with a three year stay in Portland, OR in the late 1960’s. In Portland they attended Rose of Sharon LB Church and became good friends with Pastor Don Brue and his family.

Burdean and Kay have four children, Kim, Jody, Liesl, (all three Hillcrest graduates) and a son Joey. They are also proud grandparents of 12 grandchildren, who all enjoy spending time together at their summer cabin complex at Pickerel Lake, northeast of Fergus Falls.

Burdean served on the Board of Trustees of the CLB for nine years. He and Kay have been involved in eight LB congregations. Burdean now serves as a member of the Hillcrest Board of Directors, and is one of our biggest cheerleaders for ensuring fi nancial stability for the school so that the doors stay open for decades to come.

In Burdean's own words, “I thank God for Hillcrest and have been in love with the school since my fi rst Hillcrest days to the present, collecting a ton of great friends with great Christian fellowship now for fi fty fi ve years.”

J. BURDEAN ROGNESS

ALUMNI NEWS12

IN MEMORY:Pauline (Berg) Stalsberg (H'55), age 74, of Viroqua, WI passed away on Friday, April 22, 2011 at Vernon Memorial Hospital in Viroqua. She was born on April 7, 1937 in Minneapolis, MN to Olaf and Helene (Berge) Berg. Pauline graduated from Hillcrest Lutheran Academy in 1955. Following graduation she was employed by Trane Co in La Crosse, WI and later moved back to Minneapolis where she was employed by the Minneapolis Star Tribune.

She married James Stalsberg on June 3, 1961 at Ebenezer Lutheran Church in Minneapolis.

Pauline was a stay-at-home mom, raising her four children. In 1980 she went back to work as a receptionist, including

15 years of service in the emergency room at Vernon Memorial Hospital. Pauline was proud of her children and grandchildren. She enjoyed traveling to New York to attend Broadway shows, and wintering in Phoenix, AZ. She was known for her hospitality and generosity. She loved to chat with her two sisters online and enjoyed playing games with friends and family. Pauline was a member of the Viroqua Lionettes for many years. She served on the Friends of Vernon Memorial Hospital, and was a member of Bethesda Lutheran Church in Westby, WI.

Blessed be our memory of Pauline.

Peter O. Tungseth (H'47), 82, of Fergus Falls died on Monday, May 30, 2011 at the Pelican Valley Health Center Nursing Home.

Peter Ole Tungseth was born on July 29, 1928 near Hawley, MN, the son of Anton and Thea (Halvorson) Tungseth. Peter moved with his family to Fergus Falls in 1939. He was confi rmed at Bethel Lutheran Church and graduated from Hillcrest Lutheran Academy in 1947. Peter served in the United States Army from 1951 to 1952 when he was honorably discharged. Peter then returned to the Fergus Falls area where he farmed in Buse Township.

On July 4, 1964 Peter was united in marriage to Irene (Leland) at the Salem Lutheran Brethren Church in

Duluth, MN. They made their home in Buse Township where Peter lived until 2005. He was involved in farming for 53 years. He served on the Buse Township Board for 25 years. Peter was a member of Bethel Lutheran Church, sang in the church choir, and served on the Trustee Board. Farming was Peter’s life and he enjoyed spending time with his family and his Sunday visits with friends.

Peter Tungseth's senior portrait from the 1947 Beacon

CLASS OF 1946CLASS OF 1941 SEMINARY 1951Front Row: Iola (Nelson) Stenoien, Corrine (Blikstad) Nelson, Eleanor Sollie, Evelyn (Sather) Olson.

Back Row: Dagney (Trettevik) Christenson, Thelma (Pederson) Dalene, Richard Pederson, Ruth (Olson) Fostvedt

Bernard Egstad James Olson

2011 REUNIONS

ALUMNI NEWS 13

REUNIONS

(L-R) Marilyn (Pederson) Hanson, Karen Skrede, Nancy (Thompson) Rosendahl, Mary Ann (Veum) Clark

REUNIONSREUNIONS

CLASS OF 1951

CLASS OF 1961

CLASS OF 1971

CLASS OF 1981

CLASS OF 1976

CLASS OF 1986

CLASS OF 1956

CLASS OF 1966

Front Row: Audrey (Pedersen) Chase, Adeline (Rolfsen) Mathison, Kay (Soderland) Rogness, Marilyn Kesler, Adeline (Hanson) Shjerve

Back Row: Luther Mathison, J. Burdean Rogness, Harold Aasby, Bunny (Helgesen) Vall

Front Row: Lois (Habberstad) Seaver, Eleanor (Erlandson) Stenoien, Margaret Drechsel, Angie (Poppenhagen) Vikesland,

Bette (Lloyd) Christenson. Back Row: Dave Hagen, Rollin Rogness, Jeff Christenson, Dan Stenoien, James Johnson, Edgar Jensen

First Row: Sandra (Hill) Stensland, Lila (Remmen) Holets, Carmen (Johnson) Thompson, Karen (Huss) Mundis, Barbara (Fry) Shiffer, Erma (Thompson) Hammond, Marilyn (Nilsen) Gundersen, Susan (Johnson) SandlandSecond Row: Marion (Erdahl) England, Sharon

(Valder) Dahl, Kay (Huss) Borowski, Anne Marie (Dalene) Olsen, Carol (Christensen) Bothun, Marie (Rangen) Rhuby, Sandra (Berg) HansonThird Row: Frank Dahl, Les Norman, Cornell Svaren, David Hogan, Jack Storry, David OxendahlFourth Row: Don Salvesen, David Thompson,

LeRoy Hammond, Arthur Gundersen, Chester Habberstad

Front Row: Barbara (Christenson) Ysteboe, Marie (Sunwall) Barsness, Allan Underdal, Darlyne (Pederson) Roed, Sandra (Christenson) Ward

Back Row: Joel Hanson, Mike Ysteboe, Roy Barsness, Rick Thompson, David Dunning

(L-R) Irene (Sabo) Miller, Carolyn (Mattson) Buesgens, Tracy (Taylor) Siemon, Kristina (Ambjor) Barkey, Sarah (Saufferer) Kaufman, Pam (Walvatne) Kerber

Front Row: Diane (Stoutland) Trettevik, Faith (Peterson) Tasker, Ann (Revne) Rupnow, Marty Valder, Deborah (Olsoe) Lunde,

Julie Trones. Back Row: Randy Trettevik, John Aanden, Ken Dalen, Steve Brue, Manley Olsoe, Armin Christofferson, Dean Stoutland

Front Row: Karen Zicafoose, Barb (Walvatne) Erickson, Linda (Kjos) Hoffman, Beth (Bronson) Simonsen, Anne (Jensen) Frustol, Liza

(Johnson) Neseth. Back Row: Amy (Brue) Taylor, Greg Fuhrman, Rick Salvesen, Gaylen Peterson, Steve Foss, Bonnie (Korsmo) Clark

ALUMNI NEWS14

ALUMNI UPDATES

1960’sLiz Mercer (H'62) writes: Calling all members of the class of '62 to our 50th reunion to be held memorial day weekend 2012. It will be the biggest, best and most meaningful activity in 50 years! Email now to save your place. Don't be left out...do it now! mercer_elisabeth@yahoo.com

Correction: In the last issue, Karen (Backstrom) Kargel (H'66) was incorrectly listed as a member of the class of 1965.

Judi Nordaas (H'66) writes: I have been with New Tribes Mission in Sanford, FL since 1999 working in the NTM bookstore and sorting mail. I was overseas working for 16 years before moving to Florida.

Jeff Richards (H'68) writes: My wife, Debbie, and I recently returned from a missioary trip to Merida and Cenotillo, Yucatan, Mexico where I preached in various churches and also assisted with a newly-constructed seminary. Yucatan Seminary is now

completed and is situated in Cenotillo. We were also in Merida, a large city of over one million. The pyramids are very fascinating, especially Chickten Itza and Uxmal. This area as all of Mexico is primarily Roman Catholic, and it is wonderful that there is now an evangelical Protestant seminary located in the heart of the Yucatan.

1970’sKeith Markland (H'76) writes: My wife Amy and I would like to announce the adoption of our daughter Lia Anne Lulou. Lia was born on October 22, 2009 in Jiangxi Province, China. We traveled to China and adopted her on August 16, 2010. We thank and praise God for His blessing upon us! We live in Hyde Park, NY and love being parents. Happy 35th

reunion to fellow classmates.

1980’sRonald Samuelsen (H'86) writes: I was hired in April 2011 as a GS-07, Insurance Specialist Trainee with the

Memorial GiftsHillcrest Lutheran Academy has been honored to receive gifts in memory of several alumni and friends. This list will continue to be updated with new gifts as they are received.

In 2011, gifts have been received in the name of:Janet (Monsen) Aasby of Fergus Falls, MNC. Lloyd Bjornlie of Fergus Falls, MNRussell Christopherson of Seattle, WAMargaret Drechsel of Fergus Falls, MNMarilyn Endrud of Mayville, ND

Adleide C. Gunhus of Blue Earth, MNWalter Halvorson of Fergus Falls, MNGrant Hammond of Minneapolis, MNIda Hanson of Fergus Falls, MNFern Liechty of Jamestown, NDBeverly Loge of Valley City, NDDennis Madsen of Fergus Falls, MNMyrtle Nilsen of Bloomington, MNAndrea Nix of Eugene, ORToralv Ostensen of Fort Myers, FLWendell Patch of Billings, MTAlan Ryan of Sunburst, MTPauline Stalsberg of Viroqua, WIPeter Tungseth of Fergus Falls, MNJoseph Undseth of Fergus Falls, MN

CLASS OF 1991 CLASS OF 1996 CLASS OF 2001Front Row: Krista (Sandland) Johnson, Roxanne (Walvatne) Larson, Melissa (Sand) FabianMiddle Row: Ellen (Fareth) Brideweser, Jennifer (Miller) Brown, Becky (Erickson) Lacey, Alissa (Sandland) Amundson, Erik Carl, Brad ChristensonBack Row: Tammy (Shaner) Torgerson, LeeAnn (Chilson) Roberts, Carrie (Levang) Bjorndahl, Paula (Monson) Christenson, Dave England

(L-R) Jimmy Barton, Ryan Erkenbrack (L-R) Tyler Tysver, David Heggland, Adam Krog, Kurt Lysne

The new Thrivent Choice Program requires Thrivent members to designate “Hillcrest” as a recipient of Thrivent’s charitable grant dollars. This past year, Hillcrest received $5,127.00, an average of $425.00 per month through this program. Please contact us at 218-739-3371 for more information on how you can participate.

(continued on back cover)

ALUMNI NEWS 15

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Upcoming EventsSept. 26 - Oct. 1 Homecoming Week

Oct. 1 Homecoming Concert

Nov. 18 - 24 Dominican Republic Mission Trip

Nov. 24 - 27 Thanksgiving Vacation

Dec. 2 Christmas Banquet

Dec. 10 & 11 Christmas Concert

Dec. 17 - Jan. 3 Christmas Vacation

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Hillcrest Academy is participating in the My Coke Rewards program for schools.

Coke rewards points can be found on the packaging & bottles of most Coca-Cola products,

including Sprite, Dasani Water, Minute-Maid, Powerade, Barq's, Fanta, Mello Yello, Nestea & Seagram's. These points can translate into big

rewards for Hillcrest.

GO TO WWW.FFHILLCREST.ORG/COKEREWARDS TO DONATE POINTS TO HILLCREST

CLASS UPDATES (cont.)

United States Department of Veterans Affairs Regional Offi ce and Insurance Center. Thanks be to God. I am now living in the East Falls section of Philadelphia, PA. Sorry I missed the 25th anniversary. Maybe the East Coast gang could get together at Tuscarora Inn in Mt. Bethel, PA?

Jill (Dyrud) Wiese (H'86) writes: I missed our 25th reunion but was able to return to HLA in June and get a tour -- thank you Mr. Undseth! Our summers are fi lled with swimming and work around the house. Our kids are Mark (12) and Isaiah (12), Rachel (8), and Naomi (4). I teach English Language Learners in middle school and my husband David home-schools our 8 year old, cares for our 4 year old and keeps up with our middle schoolers. David is also a student. That's a sneak-peek into our lives. God is gracious and merciful.

1990’sKrista (Anderson H'94) and Dennis Fling write: On December 23rd, 2010 we welcomed Terrian DeRay Fling,

our fourth child, into the world. He weighed 6 pounds 3 ounces. He is welcomed home by big sisters Lael (8), Kyria (3), and big brother Trey (7).

Larissa (Fossum) Campbell (H'99) writes: Happy to be back in the north! Early February, my family and I moved back to North Dakota after being away for about six years. We are living just outside of Grand Forks and happy to be close to family and friends again. We are still trying to sell our house in Oklahoma, please pray that a new owner will come along soon.

2000’sRyan (H'03) and Kristin (Bjornlie H'02) Erickson are happy to announce the birth of Mollie June Erickson, April 9, 2011.

WE LOVE HEARING FROM YOU!And so do your classmates! Send your updates to

connection@ffhillcrest.org or submit them online at www.ffhillcrest.org/update.