- Celebrating God’s Blessings over the last Decade- Growth Facts & Figures

ACADEMICS pg 1 SPIRITUAL LIFE pg 6 GIVING BACK pg 8

Spring 2009Vol. 15 No. 1

- God’s Hand at Work in Today’s Youth - Western Students Run the Race- Mm, Mm, Good

- Running the Race, 37th Auction- 11th Annual Hesston/Western Golf Tournament- Donor Thank You’s

R u n n i n g t h e R a c e

Darrel White ’76 announced in May his decision to resign as Superintendent of Western Mennonite School. The last decade of Western has seen significant changes. Though some of these changes have been challenges, the positive impact cannot go unnoticed. From increased enrollment to the increase in financial support, to new technology and new facilities, the Western Darrel leaves is very different from the one he found when he arrived back on campus eleven years ago.

Darrel’s name will forever be synonymous with the words, “Vision for Excellence,” a strategic plan and campaign that has positioned Western as one of the top Christian middle and high schools in the valley. A group of alumni, parents, students, faculty, staff, board members, donors and community members met in 2000 to envision the future of Western. Together agreed they wanted to see Western remain a strong academic institution with a Christ-centered community training young people to serve God using the Mennonite values that shaped the original vision of the school. They wanted to ensure that a place existed for families where they didn’t have to sacrifice academics in order to receive strong Biblical training. They wanted Western to be a place of academic excellence and a place with continued strong Bible and discipleship training.

It was believed that this vision was possible. Supporters knew that to turn this vision into a reality that much work would need to be done to upgrade our educational tools, our facilities and to attract faculty and staff with

Celebrating God’s Blessings over the last DecadeSuperintendent Darrel White Says Goodbyeby Andrea Wall, Former Director of Advancement

ACADEMICS1

Quick Facts & Figures

Technology

Networked the library, classrooms and offices

47 new computer workstations in the Academic Center

In the process of developing a technology campus backbone to link buildings

New bell and phone system

New educational, advancement, accounting and administrative software

Fundraising

Raised $6,500,000 in gifts and pledges

Raised over $100,000 in additional funds for technology improvements

Increased annual fund giving

Increased endowment donations

Increased volunteer involvement

Increased auction income

Inspired the Building for Excellence house by volunteers

Academic Program

Expanded the middle school to include grade 6

Enrollment has grown from 169 to 274 in the last seven years

Increased the focus on chapel, student life and spiritual life

Expanded and strengthened the academic program

Providing College Credit Now for several classes

Expanded the music program including adding band

Added equipment for the woodshop

donations (Annual fund, Campaign Projects, Endowment)

2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008

$335

,489

$798

,576

$464

,474

$1,1

39,6

66

$738

,565

$711

,513

$982

,237

$1,5

78,7

65

$1,0

92,0

80

this same vision. We knew that we needed many volunteers, financial supporters, prayer supporters and advocates. We also needed students and families who wanted to be a part of a school and a mission that provided young people with:

1. Christ-Centered Training 2. Academic Excellence 3. Community 4. Opportunities 5. Peacemaking and Service

We knew that there were challenges facing the school, one being the change in demographics over the years from 40% Mennonite students in 1997-1998 to 20% today. Despite this change, we believed that Western’s mission, vision and core values were still compelling and made Western a unique school.

What we have discovered over the seven years of the Vision for Excellence campaign is that this was true. While Western doesn’t look exactly the same as it did over 60 years ago, we continue to find that the student stories and the stories of alumni who graduated over 50 years ago remain the same.

It is at Western that they found and continue to find a caring community that nurtures students where they are at and encourages them to discover Christ in their daily life. It is this faith that fuels their desire to serve, to love and to build community around the world. The challenge still exists for students to discover their God-given gifts, their sense of call and to equip themselves to serve a world in need of God’s peace as a doctor, professor, missionary, pilot, pastor, etc. Western’s alumni have done them all and more. A common theme among our alumni is that they found Christ at Western and their journey throughout life has never been the same. This same experience still exists at Western today.

Recently a parent shared that they came to Western because it was a good school academically and they knew their children would receive a Christ-centered education. What they didn’t expect was the power of the nurturing community. It is this sense of community that they tell others to come to Western to experience.

As the campaign ends and we prepare for new leadership, we celebrate the many blessings and ways that we have seen God work over the last seven years making this vision a reality.

ACADEMICS 2

Facts & Figures Cont.

Buildings & Campus

2000 Two new middle school classrooms for the 2000-01 school year

2000 Paved front entrance & parking

2001 Developed campus master plan

2003 9,000 sq. ft. practice facility

2004 New classroom to expand grade seven to two sections

2005 Two new classrooms to expand grade six and eight to two sections

2005 Improved office space for faculty, business and advancement personnel

2005 Added a conference room

2006 Started construction on a new waste management system

2007 Ground-Breaking Ceremony May 20 for the Academic Center

2008 Opened 8,000 sq. ft. Academic Center to students and faculty in April

2008 Added another high school classroom in the admin building

2008 Implemented a campus-wide fire protection pond and system

Student Life & Athletics

Added girls’ soccer and softball

Added baseball

Added the above sports for middle school and high school

Built new fencing on the baseball field including a homerun fence

We are preparing a new softball field and another soccer field for 2009

Improved dorms (added kitchen, space for weekend students, apartment for dorm directors, new flooring, beds, dressers, mattresses and bookshelves

Expanded and upgraded the kitchen

Admissions

2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008

177

stud

ents

169

stud

ents

186

stud

ents

189

stud

ents

199

stud

ents

232

stud

ents

251

stud

ents

247

stud

ents

275

stud

ents

What has been accomplished? Western has also seen academic growth. We serve students of varying academic ability. The academic program is strong and provides consistent academic instruction well above the national average. Since 2000- 01 we have increased our test scores plus we have added College Credit Now classes through Chemeketa Community College.

SAT Scores (NA = National Average)

Year Reading / NA Math / NA Writing / NA

2000-01 545 / 503 527 / 514 -

2001-02 539 / 504 534 / 516 -

2002-03 581 / 507 546 / 519 -

2003-04 531 / 508 538 / 518 -

2004-05 524 / 508 534 / 520 -

2005-06 547 / 503 548 / 518 514 / 497

2006-07 539 / 502 536 / 515 522 / 494

2007-08 563 / 502 540 / 515 528 / 494

ACADEMICS3

Thank YouThank you Darrel and Eric Martin for your leadership in this vision. Thank you for your service and for your willingness to come to Western day in and day out to help guide us faithfully through this change. A special blessing to Darrel White as he steps out into a new journey as Development Director at Corban College in Salem, Oregon.

We especially thank our campaign co-chairs, John ‘51 & Erma Jantzi and two other couple Warde ‘57 & Pat ‘57 Hershberger and Jake & Marilyn ’62 Van Pelt, who have given a tremendous effort over the past seven years. Thank you also to Jerry Kennell who served as the campaign consultant and SERA Architects.

There are hundreds of people who have made this possible. Thank you to the following groups:

Campaign Cabinet Campaign Director Campaign Counsel Campaign Prayer Council Western Faculty and Staff School Board Members VFE Donors Parents and Students Volunteers

Where do we go from here?The campaign cabinet and Western’s administration proposed to the school board that we close the Vision for Excellence campaign at the end of December and focus on celebrating all that has been accomplished. The end of the campaign does not mean that we are done. Western is still a place of vision. There are new projects to tackle and new needs that have developed during this time.

The science wing is still a priority project. We have a positive balance on the Academic Center so the remaining money from the campaign will be designated for the science wing. We are continuing to accept gifts for this project and a portion of each donation will go to the annual fund.

Please be in prayer for God’s guidance and provision for Western as we begin a new journey.

Western Reaches Record EnrollmentThis September the students at Western started the new school year with a record number of fellow students. High school began the year with 175 students, with the middle school not far behind with 99 students. The previous record enrollment was 251 students for 2006-2007 school year. If you know of any interested students or families, enrollment is still open. Please contact Heidi Brubaker at 503-363-2000 or e-mail her at hbrubaker@westernmennoniteschool.org.

VolunteersWestern would like to thank all our wonderful volunteers who help make our school a community! We could not provide the variety of enrichment opportunities we do with out the help of our alumni, parents and friends in the community. Thank you to all of you who give your time to make a difference in the lives of our students!

ACADEMICS 4

Jason Bailey, Band Director

J Marie Bailey, Drama Director

Mark Gingerich, Boys’ Dorm Leader

Nick Richardson, Boys’ Dorm Leader

Molly Baker, Girls’ Dorm Leader

Danae Miller, Girls’ Dorm Leader

Charis Martin, Girls’ Dorm Leader

Matt Yoder, Social Studies Teacher

Robby Gilliam, Campus JobsCoordinator & Dorm Director

Sara Gilliam, Middle School Teacher

Suzy Filly, Library Assistant

Cheryl Mayo, Alumni Relations Coordinator

John Marvin, Director of Advancement

Volunteer OpportunitiesDo you have a heart for Western, some extra time? We are always looking for volunteers! A few hours of your time can make a big difference for our students! If you are interested, call the school office at 503-363-2000.

See You at the PoleEvery year the national “See You at the Pole” (SYATP) prayer rally happens on September 24. This is an event where students at public and private schools around the nation gather around their flag pole (or fountain in our case) and pray for their school, friends, families, and nation. This year we had a group of about 25 students gather at 7:30am to join in a time of worship and prayer led by Brianne Mayo, a senior and the student ministries chair for student council.

Western Welcomes Thirteen New Staff & Faculty for the 2008-09 School Year

Dear Alumni and Friends of Western, Thank you for your support of Western Mennonite School. We especially are grateful to those of you that are able to continue your support this year when the economy is so uncertain.

We are in the midst of transition here at Western. The most recent change is the addition of John Marvin as the Director of Advancement. John comes to Western with over 20 years of ministry experience as a pastor and/or missionary. We are excited to have him join the leadership team of Darrel Camp, Principal, Zig Derochowski, Assistant Principal, and Pat Rausch, Business Manager. John is replacing Andrea Wall who has been called to serve in her home church in Henderson, Nebraska. We will miss Andrea while looking forward to working with John.

Another change we have seen this past year is the closing of the Vision for Excellence campaign. The Academic Center is fully operational. If you have not had a chance to stop by the campus to see this blessing to our school, please do. We are now in a time of speculating as to where God may lead in a future campaign.

Again, thank you for your continued support of Western, Darrel Camp, Principal

ACADEMICS5

Western Mennonite School Players Perform YearbookWestern’s new drama director J. Marie Bailey selected Yearbook, an uplifting view of normal high school life through the visual tool of the student yearbook as the fall drama production. The play was written by playwright Steven Fendrich as a rebuttal to the negative media portrayal of the high school experience. He asks, “Is it fair for this play to show only the positive side of school life?” His answer to this question was the reason Ms. J chose this play. Yes! The play centers on the yearbook staff & photographers as they reminisce about their experiences while gathering photos and stories of the various school clubs, and how they learned to see the individuals inside the group, and who they really were. It was a positive experience for both the cast and the audience!

If you missed Yearbook, please mark your calendar for Western’s spring musical scheduled for May 14 thru 16. The play Godspell is the planned production.

Student & Faculty NewsElyssa Fanndrich ’15 daughter of Tim ’85 and Pam Fahndrich of Salem ranked top place in A.C. Gilbert’s BU$INE$$ KIDS, a six-week program designed to give youth an opportunity to learn about business and charitable giving.

Elyssa baked brownies that she named Pinx’s Perfect Brownies.

Courtney Hochstetler ’11 daughter of John SB and Sheila F/S Hochstetler of Salem finished in second place at the Lebanon Cross Country Invitational at Waterloo Park in September, and finished in first place in the state conference and won Athlete of the Year.

Tristan Versteeg ‘14 son of Steven Versteeg & Jeanne VanBuskirk of McMinnville is ranked 14th in his age tower in the nation in competitive diving, and last year was the state champion, and first in the Northwest in the 50 & 100 yard swimming competition.

Craig Hartrampf ‘10 won the Oregon Jr Classic F1 Bowlers Tournament in September. Craig scored over 200 in 9 out of 10 games in the tournament.

Russell Adrian F/S was chosen as the pianist for the soundtrack to Through the Desert Goes Our Journey, a documentary film about the Great Trek of Mennonites from Ukraine and Russia into central Asia during the 1800’s.

SPIRITUAL 6

Western Students Run the Raceby Eric Ivanitsky, ’99 WMS Spiritual Life Director & WMC Youth Pastor

With every new year the student council announces a new theme, a word or phrase that sets in motion what many of the chapel speakers will talk about, what the topic of conversation will be in small groups, and hopefully what becomes a set of truths to encourage each of us here at Western to pursue the life that Christ has called us to. This year the student council has chosen the theme “Running the Race” with 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 as the accompanying scripture. While I must admit that I am not a runner (and haven’t as yet managed to motivate myself to become one) there are some great spiritual analogies one can derive both scripturally and from personal observation from running in a race. In the verse chosen for the theme Paul is basically saying “Hey, you guys are in a race, run it with all you’ve got and do all that you can to win the prize!” And so that is exactly what we are setting out to do this year! Last year our theme was “Under Construction”, and now that the foundation is in place, it’s time to run the race!

Whether we can run a marathon, a 5K race, or somehow just manage to get around the block, the truth of the matter is that God has placed us here in such a time as this to live our lives in a way that makes an eternal impact. So as you think of us here at Western, pray that we would have the courage to release those things which hinder us, the boldness to abandon the worldly race that distracts us from the eternal prize, and the perseverance it takes to push through the obstacles that inevitably come our way.

God’s Hand at Work in Today’s Youth by Abbie Friesen, Director of Communications & Dorm Leader

Last August, Aubree Davis (’07) and Stephanie Danilson (’06) traveled to Battambang, Cambodia, to serve and minister to the people in the second largest city in the country. While living with a family near the local YWAM base, opportunities arose for great impact. (See Stephanie’s blog for more details.) But for both Aubree and Stephanie, their journey didn’t begin in Cambodia. Rather it began at Western Mennonite:

“I can remember Aubree and Stephanie talking about doing something like this back when they were still at Western,” reflects Stephanie’s mother Cherry. “At the time I thought it was just two young girls casually dreaming, and maybe it was at first. But I believe that Western had a big part in their developing a passion for this work - the special speakers in chapel, the sharing of experiences and encouragement from the staff. During their time there they were exposed to different types of mission experiences. The trips with Western and their church, and their training at YWAM helped them see what wonderful and exciting ways they can share God’s love. It amazes me that these dreams actually have happened.”

After graduating from Western, both Aubree and Stephanie went to YWAM in Montana and wound up spending time in Thailand. It was during their journey through Southeast Asia that they began falling in love with the people, leading to their latest travels in Cambodia. Now Stephanie is planning to return to the area in March, this time to Taiwan. As she looks for support for her upcoming trip, Stephanie asks the Western community for prayer for finances and perseverance. She also invites you to learn more about her past and upcoming mission work at http://stephaniedanilson.blogspot.com.

WMS MomsAttention Moms! Do you worry about your children? Come experience how you can replace your anxiety and fear with peace and hope by praying with other moms. Moms In Touch International gathers moms together to pray specifically and scripturally for our children and school. Won’t you join with us in prayer for this next generation? We meet Tuesdays @ Western from 2-3pm.

Please contact Cindy Low at 503-391-8972 or hownowlow@comcast.net for information about our local group. You can also check out Moms In Touch International by visiting www.MomsInTouch.org.

SPIRITUAL7 Mm, Mm, Goodby Abbie Friesen, Director of Communications & Dorm Leader

Beginning each school year, the Western Mennonite faculty and staff load into a bus and drive down to the Canby Grove Retreat Center to welcome newcomers and bring our summer-lovin’ minds back into the swing of school. After fun and games, laughter and more laughter, we settle down to hear a message from a guest speaker, this year Mel Conrad, parent of Brandon Conrad ‘12. Typically this message is filled with encouragement for the school year, but this one started out in, well, a new direction.

Luckily we had just munched on some snacks, because Mel began by naming the tastiest food that could possibly warm up our taste buds:

Lavender Vanilla Crème Brûleé. Mediterranean Shrimp Mousse. Strawberry Mountain Flat Iron Steak. Key Lime Tart.

In the back of our minds we tried not to think about the foods she was gently pushing our way. But in reality even the names made our minds go crazy with delight. Just before her buffet of words, Mel made the connection that food and God are closely related: for just as we hunger for, love, and cannot live without food, so should our relationship be with God. She continued by challenging us to think about memories associated with our favorite food, challenged us to even share them. What Mel was doing was digging deep into our minds, where food sparks emotions. Of course,

there was a reason: in order for us to understand just how much we need to hunger for God, she took something tangible and applied it to something spiritual. She was teaching us that there are preparations that can be made to create spiritual hunger, just as with physical hunger.

So in groups of five, we devised our own recipes for creating spiritual hunger, in others, in the classroom, in a work setting, in life experiences. Each group had a different dish, different instructions, and different

preparations. As shown on the recipe card, there are many steps to creating an atmosphere conducive for spiritual hunger: encouragement, authenticity, even listening. Never-the-less, not every step, let alone dish, is for everyone; that’s why we have so many different ones. From soup and salad to steak and soufflé, everyone has a favorite. The key ingredient in these dishes, however, is investing in the life itself.

After our hymn sing we loaded back into the bus and traveled to school where our adventures would soon begin. The chit-chat and laughter came back into conversations and tired spirits relaxed to the setting of the sun. People were worn down by the long day, yes, but there was a calming presence among us. It was as if we knew the school year would be difficult and tiresome, but yet our hearts knew not. That the only food that would refresh us was God himself.

Small Group Service Afternoon Project by Cheryl Mayo, Alumni Relations

Coordinator

This year our small groups served the community by pulling ivy vines, picking up trash, and hacking down blackberry bushes in several locations across Salem. The middle school went to town on the ivy overgrowing the natural plants and trees at Deepwood Park, next to Bush Park near downtown Salem. The ivy at Deepwood Park is an invasive species that covers the ground making it impossible for more than a thousand different kinds of wildflowers to be able to come up in the spring. The high school went to several locations, the majority of the students served at Woodmansee Park in South Salem, while others served the community surrounding the school at the 4-H Center and Spring Valley Church, both just off of Brush College Rd. Our Small Group Service Afternoon projects are a great opportunity for students to experience what it means to take part in, and give back to, the community as well as how to make service a part of their everyday life.

Remember Western in Your Prayers:- Students - Faculty & Staff - Spiritual Life - Finances

GIVING BACK 8

May 2, 2009, State Fairgrounds – Jackman Long Building

Come join the fun at this year’s Benefit Auction — offering quality items to bid on, plenty of food to gobble up, and a chance to reminisce with classmates. Celebrate in style with this year’s theme: Running the Race. While we won’t make you participate in the 4th Annual 5K Fun Run, you can run the race for student’s quality education by joyfully giving to Western Mennonite School on May 2. Hope to see you there!

Alumni Class Gift Winners:1956 Most Money Raised in 2008 (Andrea & Harold)1980 Most Creative Gift in 2008

A Night on Broadway – including a stay at the Heathman Hotel rated one of the best places to stay in the world, a Broadway show, dinner for two and valet parking.

1955 Highest Bid for an Item in 2007 Dell Inspiron Laptop Computer

Make a Difference:1. Donating an Item2. Alumni – Donate Cash Toward Your Class Gift3. Donate Time – Volunteer4. Invite Others to Attend – Buy a Gift Certificate5. Bid on Items

For future news and updates about the Auction, go to Western’s website at www.westernmennoniteschool.org/donors/auction.

.

11th Annual Hesston/Western Benefit Golf Tournament

The 11th Annual Hesston/Western Benefit Golf Tournament was held on September 20th at Trysting Tree Golf Course in Corvallis. One hundred and eight players came to support Hesston College and Western Mennonite School and enjoyed a sunny, but chilly day of golf. Top scoring teams were: Phil Doran (captain), A J Doran ‘12, Gordon Snyder & Tyler Snyder for the lower age flight. Chad Garber ‘90 (captain), Bill Garber, Bob Elliot & Ken Reeder for the middle flight. Gene Gascho (captain), Willis Byers ‘61, Russ Bass & Rick Troyer ‘73 for the upper flight

Give Back to Western5 different ways to to make a difference:

- Praying- Being an advocate - Volunteering - Sending a student - Donating money

For more information or to get involved, contact John Marvin at 503-363-2000 or email jmarvin@westernmennonites-chool.org.

Class of 1963 45th Reunionby Mim (Snyder, Swartz) Zook ‘63

The class of ’63 celebrated 45 years of life after Western by meeting in Idaho at the home of classmate, Rita, and Emerson (’62) Miller. The reunion began on Friday night, June 27th and concluded at noon, June 29th. Twelve classmates, plus spouses, enjoyed a great deal of time reminiscing about the days at Western and catching up on the events of the last 45 years.

For those of you who missed it, I can only assume that you meant to come but mixed up the dates (or something). We had such a good time. The older we get, the more important these things seem to become (and the less we worry about, how many pounds we have gained since 1963, who has the grayest hair, or the least amount of hair, or who has aged the most in general). I noticed a distinct element of interest and caring for each individual’s “journey” as we have lived our lives/careers, raised our families, slogged through the tough times, and celebrated the high points. I think we are now at a point in our lives where we can sit back and actually enjoy where we have been and are able to laugh at the ironies in the “journey” and truly support one another in the lives that we are currently living.

In addition to the reminiscing and “catching up,” some of the activities included:

1. Listening to the entertainment by Verna (Miller)Snider’s husband, Glen; 2. Relaxing in the shade (trying to mitigate the hot weather); 3. Enjoying the massive amounts of delicious food prepared by Rita and Emerson; and 4. Savoring the lovely pastoral setting of the Miller home.

Everyone agreed that even with the current high-priced gas and airfare, the fellowship with old classmates far outweighed the cost of traveling to the reunion. We anticipate at least a 90% turnout at our 50th reunion, scheduled for July, 2013 in Oregon, since we should all be retired by then and have the freedom to travel at will. Shirley (Lais) Martin will lead the planning.

GIVING BACK9

Relaxing L to R: Shirley (Lais) Martin, Mary (nice) Gingerich, Dorothy (Hofer) Miller, Ruby (Strubhar) Supina, Jean (Kropf) Clay, Archie Clay.

Eating L to R: Lloyd Martin, Shirley (Lais) Martin, Leonard Stutzman.

Attendees L to R, bottom row: Leonard Stutzman, Jean(Kropf) Clay, Archie Clay.

Middle row: Gary Eichelberger, Bryan Stauffer, Ruby (Strubhar) Supina, Shirley (Lais) Martin, Mary (Nice) Gingerich.

Top Row: Verna (Miller) Snider, Rita (Miller) Miller, Mim (Snyder, Swartz) Zook, Dorothy (Hofer) Miller.

Western AlumniSave the dates of June 12 and June 14, 2009 for a Western Mennonite School alumni music event. Students, alumni and friends of Western will resurrect a music tradition at Western during the 1950s and early 1960s in two performances of:

David the Shepherd Boy. Friday evening, June 12, at Western Sunday afternoon, June 14, at Fairview. Rehearsals will begin in April.

More information will be on its way. For now, mark these dates on your calendar and plan to participate!

Del Snyder, class of 1958

GIVING BACK 10Class of 1958’s 50 Year ReunionThe class of 1958 met for two days at the Canby Grove Conference Center to celebrate their 50th year reunion. Thirty six class members came to reconnect with their former classmates. They came from as far as Canada, Minnesota, Montana, Wisconsin and Montana. Six of the couples met during their time at Western, and have enjoyed many years of married life together. Sunday evening was a special time that included class members from the classes’ of ’57, and ’58 as well. There was a time of singing hymns, sharing stories that made everyone laugh, and of course, lots of pictures of all the children, grandchildren and even great grandchildren the classmates have been blessed with!

To add your reunion to the website and In Touch, contact Cheryl Mayo at 503-363-2000 or e-mail at cmayo@westernmennoniteschool.org. Class of 1958 Gives Back

In 50 years many things have changed at Western, but the important things are still the same. The friendships, the faith focus, the academic preparation and people who still want to make the world a better place. Five years ago Del Snyder ’58 challenged his classmates from the class 1958 to join in a combined effort to raise $50,000 for Western’s student grant endowment which would help families afford Western’s Christ-centered education for years to come. The Class of 1958 met Del’s challenge, and then some. On Tuesday, September 9, 2008, 22 class members joined the students for chapel as part of their 50th year class reunion activities. They received a standing ovation from the students when it was announced that over a 5 year period they had raised $58,750! A special thank you to all the class members of 1958 who gave so generously to Western.

Memories of Twila Zimmerly (Faculty) Live Onby Mim (Snyder, Swartz) Zook ‘63

A recent visit to Ohio prompted me to attempt to locate Twila Zimmerly. For those of you who attended Western in the late ‘50s - early ‘60s, the name, Twil, brings up memories of a diminutive woman with her characteristic little bun, standing in the center hall of the girls’ dorm and calling “lights out” to signal the moment that we girls were to put our sleepy young heads on our pillows and drift into dreamland. (We thought she did not actually know what we were really up to. She did.) For those of you who were not fortunate enough to attend Western during the “Twil days,” you missed an important part of Western’s history.

I found Twila living with her sister, Evie, on a part of their family farm that they have turned into a beautiful countryside community growth center, called The Fountain, which encourages spiritual, emotional, social, and intellectual growth in the lives of people. The facility is used for reunions, church, school, and business picnics, weddings, anniversaries, graduations, receptions, and 4-H clubs. Twila continued her work as a social worker until only a few years ago and, at age 77, now focuses on The Fountain and her large manicured yard spattered with numerous bird houses and hundreds of hosta plants. Even though I had not seen Twil for many years, I instantly recognized her by her distinctive hand gestures, her lilting voice, her little giggle, and her shy smile.

GIVING BACK11

Class of 1950Ruth Kaufmann Rosana Roth Freda & Carl Schmidt Leon & Luella Stutzman

Class of 1951 Leroy & Olive Kenagy Maynard & Helen Headings

Class of 1952Al & Carolyn Burkey Glen & Lila Byers Maynard & Helen Headings Violet & Rex Hopkins Leo & Bonnie Jantzi Elizabeth Kennedy Muriel & Herman Krehbiel Clifford & Hope Lind Berdella Stutzman Bob & Fern Nice

Class of 1953Wilbur & Fanni Birky Al & Carolyn Burkey Delmar & Delores Kennel Norm & Phyllis Lind Bob & Fern Nice Dorothy & Layman Slagell

Class of 1954Marvin & Mabel Emmert Grace & Lowell Herr Paul & June Schrock Helen Thomas Erma & William Yoder

Class of 1955Cal & Bev Emmert Sue Gresham Maynard & Mildred Nofziger Harold & Lyla Snyder Ada Stout Eldon & Doreen Ropp Ben & Ruth Wisseman

Class of 1956Virginia & Robert Buck Shirley & LeRoy Chupp Marvin & Anna Grace Kauffman Doris & Marion Knox Donna & Delmar Miller Diane & Millard Paulus Mary Lee & Sam Strong Cal & Bev Emmert

Class of 1957 Tom & Shirley Hershberger Warde & Pat Hershberger

Darlene & Robert Kauffman Allen & Sara Lind Verdella & Maxton Slagell Warde & Pat Hershberger Ernie & Joyce Yoder

Class of 1958Corene & Laurence Baker Merle & Karen Bitikofer Galen & Nancy Burkey Larry & Rosella Harshbarger Jay & Diana Headings Bob Heyerly John & Jeanne Heyerly Joe & Ruth Hofer Mary Ellen & John Kauffman Ruth Kauffman Dorothy & Veldon Kropf Carol & Ron Maust Ernest Miller Clara Moberly Idella Mukasa Jewell & Les Nelson Carl & Eilene Snyder Delbert & Lee Snyder Merv & Ruth Stutzman Donna Winchester Ernie & Joyce Yoder Perry & Elizabeth Yoder

Class of 1959Glenn Bond Rod & Marcia Byers Sharon & Don Clay Oren Horst Jo Ann Johnstone Marlene & Merle Kauffman Richard & Karen Kropf David & Vee Lehman Ken & Annie Lind Marian & Dennis Miller Ron & Ardis Nofziger Eldon & Doreen Ropp Michael & Joyce Ruckert Virginia & Perry Schlabach Doris Schrock Dale Snyder Delbert & Lee Snyder David & Donna Stutzman Lee & Carol Schweitzer Ed & Marion Yoder Marvin Yoder

Class of 1960Jeanette & Nick Arello Ordena Bond Alta & Kenneth Gerig Dan & Phyllis Miller Lois & Glen Oesch Ken & Mabel Snyder

David & Donna Stutzman Ben & Ruth Wisseman Shirley & Kenton Yoder Brubaker Arla & Mario Yu

Class of 1961Duane & Linda Emmert Iris & John Esch Myrna & James Hamblin John & Jeanne Heyerly Judy & Jim Jaques Sharon & Cecil Kennel Beverly & Wayne Knox Carl & Eilene Snyder Ivan Snyder Ken & Mabel Snyder Lee & Carol Schweitzer

Class of 1962Thelma & Roy Blackstone Rod & Marcia Byers Barbara & Leroy Custer Duane & Linda Emmert Sharon & Dale Moyer Stan & Lettie Nice Susan Russell Jim & Carol Schweitzer Marilyn & Jake Van Pelt Gale & Florence Gingrich

Class of 1963Bev & Larry Armstrong Arnold & Donna Brubaker Mary & Lee Gingerich Lola Jenkins Elton & Esther Kauffman Barbara & Larry Lane Marvin & Shirl Shetler Duane & Jan Eicher Gary & Shirley Eichelberger

Class of 1964Donna & J. Roy Brubaker Gale & Florence Gingrich Dot Kropf Dan & Louise Nofziger Ron & Ardis Nofziger Marylin & Linwood Rush

Class of 1965Dennis & Alice Brubaker Darlene & Carl Dintaman Duane & Jan Eicher Ellen & James Eigsti Sharon & Richard Marrs Floyd & Mary Schrock Gene & Susan Boshart

Class of 1966Milly Garver

Miriam Kiogima Cindy Mullet Dennis & Alice Brubaker Gary & Mim Hooley

Class of 1967Barbara & Don Edwards Dianna & Leon Eshleman Ramona Gerig Nancy & Les Kinnaman Dan & Amelia Lais Janet & Gary Oyer Donna & Randy Springer Norma Steckley Marv & Judy Stutzman

Class of 1968Dorothea & Mike Coleman Linda & Dennis Estrada Jodi & John Fitch Rachel & Wayne Hickman Lynell & Doug Stutzman John & Jane Stutzman Jerry & Sharon Stutzman

Class of 1969Connie & Neal Anderson \Twila & Ron Ernst Mary Lou & Allen Merrill Jean & Gail Miller Jerry & Sharon Stutzman

Class of 1970Lori & Lee Burkey Eileen Hostetler Leroy & Judy Kauffman Jerry & Vevi Schrock Lowell & Wendy Steckly

Class of 1971Gary & Shirley Eichelberger Von & Steve Hershberger Janice Lais Julie & Wayne Miller Marilyn & Mervin Mullet Janine & Barry Rands Rick & Joyce Showalter Rudy & Colleen Gingerich

Class of 1972Donna & Bob Detrich Linda & Robert Dibble Rudy & Colleen Gingerich John Jantzi Bill & Karolyn Mengershausen Keith Miller Arnie & Sheri Nofziger

Class of 1973Chris Elliott

Thank You 2008 Donors

Class of 1997Gale & Jeanie Hess

Class of 1998Mervin Kropf

Class of 1999Eric Ivanitsky

Class of 2000Mark Furlong Jesse & Ashley Zook

Class of 2001Chad Hochstetler Andrew Hooley

Class of 2003Kyle Mast

Class of 2004Trevor Schultz

Class of 2008Kevin Derochowski Kory Derochowski

Faculty & Alumni Faculty Russell & Camille Adrian Merlin & Kathleen Aeschliman Bob & Joan Baker Mike & Patti Baker John & Claudia Beechy Dennis & Alice Brubaker Heidi & Simeon Brubaker Lori & Lee Burkey Tina & Tom Burnett Darrel & Kathy Camp Jeanna & Dale Cannon Dave & Corlyn Chambers Zig & Teresa Derochowski Ellen & James Eigsti Duane & Linda Emmert Dave & Marj Engle Twila & Ron Ernst Gale & Florence Gingrich Douglas & Linda Grimms Tammy & Jeff Hall Marvin & Jo Hamilton Maynard & Helen Headings Diana Blackstone & Alan Helt Grace & Lowell Herr Michele & Del Hershberger Von & Steve Hershberger Sheila & John Hochstetler Oren Horst Dora & Serge Ivanitsky Eric Ivanitsky Dottie & Charles Kamilos Joe & Elaine Kauffman

Mary Ellen & John Kauffman Elisabeth Kaufman Carl Keener Karen & Gabino Kenagy Perez Willard & Mae Etta Kennel Janice Krause Mervin Kropf Esther Lanting Rol & BJ Leichty Clifford & Hope Lind Katie & Marcus Lind Pam & Verne Mack Eric & Sue Martin Leo & Mary Martin Kyle Mast Cheryl & Ken Mayo Molly & Tim McCabe Julie & Wayne Miller Idella Mukasa Cindy Mullet John & Ann Myers Jonathan & Lori Nussbaum Ray & Kay Nussbaum Amanda & Michael O’Connor Vonnie & Stan Oyer Diana Perth Lynette & Brian Plank Carla Schrock Floyd & Mary Schrock Stan & Rita Schrock Vera Schrock Paul and Charlene Schultz Bernard & Miriam ShowalterBob & Willi Snyder Dale Snyder Ken & Mabel Snyder Lowell & Wendy Steckly Susan & Craig Stinson Jerry & Sharon Stutzman Leon & Luella Stutzman Marv & Judy Stutzman Carl & Pam Swartz Carolyn & Roger Trygstad Andrea & Mike Wall Dottie & Tim Weber Sherri-Lynn & Ryan Wenger Tim & Angie Wenger Darrel & Charlene White Cathy & Dave Withee Chris & Jeanette Woodard Brian & Tammy Wright Harvey & Alma Yoder Lela & Edwin Yoder Shirley & Kenton Yoder Brubaker Don & Karen Zapata Twila Zimmerly Lorena Zuniga Roa

GIVING BACK 12

Gwen & Doug Gransberg Marilyn Grasse-Brubaker Kit & Kevin Rediger Peggy & Douglas Talmadge Sherry & Rodney Troyer Lowell & Wendy Steckly Raymond & Wyonne Weber

Class of 1974Roberta & Chris Arstein Cindy & Steve Calhoun Melvena & Jerry Gorman Debbie & Phil Odegaard Gwen & Ed Peachey Onie Ward Bob & Joan Baker Gary & Lois Hooley Dennis & Karen Beckler

Class of 1975Anita & Dale Classen John & Ann Myers Mike & Patti Baker

Class of 1976Laura & Darrell Brown Tina & Lou Christian Linda & Jim Eicher Larry & Tami McGinnis Darrell & Peggy Miller Todd & Deb Rediger Leon & Wanda Rohrer-Heyerly Elizabeth & Clark Slater Julia & Greig Todd Darrel & Charlene White Stan & Rita Schrock

Class of 1977Michael Galer Donald & Denise Reeser Susan & Craig Stinson

Class of 1978Ron & Anna Mae Baker Doug & Erica Hostetler

Class of 1979Marcy & Leo Aranda Ginny & Malcolm Juss Andy & Brenda Kauffman Sharon & Dale Wenger Carl Yoder

Class of 1980Dennis & Karen Beckler Sheryl & Gerald Mast Dale & Carrie Porter Cindy & Paul Rydell Marshall & Jackie Wideman

Ron & Anna Mae Baker Roger & Kendra Schlabach Stan & Rita Schrock Paul and Charlene Schultz Darrel & Janette Wisseman

Class of 1981Katie & Ivan Mast Lynette & Brian Plank

Class of 1982Jeanette & Randy Boyack Marla & Kenny Ernst Sue & Steve Roth Jennifer & Richard Snyder/Beyler

Class of 1983Karyn & Richard Hinz Pam & Verne Mack Jeff & Heidi Shenk

Class of 1984Clayton & Rachel Harrison Diana Blackstone & Alan Helt Tim & Angie Wenger

Class of 1985Cathie Jo & Darin Sturdevant Tim & Angie Wenger

Class of 1986Allen Schrock

Class of 1988Tim & Jen Hershberger

Class of 1989Karin & Curt Gingrich Weaver Melika & Ross Hershberger Christopher & Angie Nissly Sabino & Kim Arredondo

Class of 1990Michael & Heidi Pender

Class of 1991Melissa & Darren King

Class of 1992Cheri & Chris Wampole

Class of 1995Kyle & Melodie Stutzman Sherri-Lynn & Ryan Wenger

Class of 1996Jill & Nathan Kletzing Jonathan & Lori Nussbaum Joanna & Matt Shepherd

Thank You 2008 Donors

GIVING BACK13

Friends of WMSOran D. & Paula Abbott Carol & Merle Abraham Susan Antonini Kerri Bain Col. Eugene & Margaret Bal, Jr. USAF (Ret.) Will & Cheeri Barnhart Ron & Darlene Barnick Patricia Beach Leland & Beth Ann Beamer Charles & Meloni Beauchamp Doug & Luanne Berkey Steve & Kathleen Bernards Karl & Ginny Birky Gaylon & Lois Bledsoe Alvin & Mary Bontrager Robert & Beth Bontrager Todd & Amy Borntreger Jonathan & Joyce Bowman Clifford & Shirley Brenneman Harley & Marolyn Brenneman Raymond Brubaker Jonathan & Esther Bucher Shannon Buck Reed Burkholder Russell & Janet Buschert Ron & Gloria Camp Jeanna & Dale Cannon Andrew & Dema Chupp

Gene & Dorene Claassen Cliff & Delight Stone Curry Cherry Danilson Robert & Sandra DeMaster David & Martha Detweiler Richard & Barbara Dinsmore Curtis & Phyllis Dorsing Doug & Connie Dorsing Kevin & Wanda Dorsing John & Pauline Fisher Marilyn Forrester Linda & Jerry Fredericks Beulah Fretz Elmer & Myrtle Fricke Carey & Janice Friesen Ruby Friesen Mark & Laura Furlong Jo Rita Gann Neil & Patricia Gansler David Garber Melva Garber Robert Garber Sally Geistweit Rod & Carolyn Gerig Craig & Jana Gingerich Letha Gingerich Douglas & Joyce Gross Bruce E & Shirley Hamilton Marvin & Jo Hamilton Bruce & Kathy Harder Claver Hategekimana

David & Leanne Hays Goldie Heyerly Bob & Mary Jane Hollinger Gordon & Goldie Horst Ruth Hostetler Kathy Howell Anne Jantzi Roland & Mary Jantzi Gertrude Johnson Anna Kauffman Ike & Vada Kauffman Joe & Elaine Kauffman Norman D. & Margaret Kauffman Ray & Tina Kauffman Elisabeth Kaufman Kraig & Nansie Kelly Earl D & Ev Kenagy Vera Kennel Rick Kobbe Charity Kropf Ivan Kropf Lester & Ruth Kropf Elizabeth Landis Floyd & Claudia Lapp Chris & Bonnie Lehman Sharaya Lehman Tom & Carole Lemp Ron & Karen Litwiller Gretchen Longwell Mimi Longwell

David & Mona Mann Arlen & Kitty Marsyla Roy & Ruth Martin Juan & Janice Martinez Charles & Connie McAllister Vena McCoy

Mennonite Foundation Stanley & Sharon Meyer Clara Miller Earl & Grace Miller Ervin & Esther Miller Paul & Pam Miller Floyd & Marjorie Miller, Jr Cliff & Laura Monroe Diane Moustachetti James & Belle Mullet Glen & Doris Nafziger Carl & Louise Newswanger Alvin & Wilma Nisly Willard & Bernita Nofziger Leonard & Karen Nolt Sandy Duffy Norman Leona M. & H. Duane Oesch Michael & Jana Oesch Daniel & Cheryl Palmer Ronald & Velma Peachey Eric & Dorothy Pekkola La Fyrne Pratt Wm. Ung & Kathryn Railsback

Thank You 2008 Donors

GraduationHakuna Matata - Swahili for “there are no problems” was the class motto for Western’s class of 2008. The 22 member graduating class included 2 Salutatorians: Jalisa Heyerly & Lydia Penrose and 1 Valedictorian: Amber Kelly. Commencement address was given by former assistant principal Mike Wenger. Special achievement awards for the year went to Shawnti Peachey – Bible. Jalisa Heyerly – one for Social Science, one for English. Caleb Grimms – one for Math, one for Science, & one for Vocational Technology. Male & Female Musician of the year went to Joon Wha Lee & Shawnti Peachey. Male & Female athlete of the year went to Daniel Martin & Denise Wood.

Seventy seven percent of the class of 2008 headed for college this fall!

BirthsJessica (Krabill) ’96 & James Polk of Hutchinson, KS welcome their third child, a daughter, born February 15, 2008 – Kenzie Elise. Proud Grandparents are Leonard ’71 & Kris (Kauffman) ’71 Krabill.

Sherri-Lynn (Kauffman) ’95 & Ryan Wenger FF/S of Tofield, Alberta, Canada welcome their second son, Caleb Garrett, born March 22, 2008.

Gary ’79 & Rose Roth welcome a daughter Luana Rose to their family. Proud Grandparents are Ken ’51 & Evon (Zook) ’56 Roth.

Brian ’95 & Trina Nussbaum of Harrisonburg, VA welcome a son born July 30 - Tristan Ray. Proud Grandparents are Ray F/S & Kay Nussbaum.

Berneda (Kropf)’96 & Carlos Castaneda FF/S of Lopez Mateos, Mexico welcome their second child, a son Demain Obed born August 14, 2008.

AnniversariesWarde ’57 & Pat (Yoder) ’57 Hershberger celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary.

Merlin FF/S & Kathleen Aeschliman celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary.

Bob & Willi Snyder F/S celebrate their 35th wedding anniversary.

Hope (Kauffman) ’52 & Cliff Lind celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary.

Alumni newsBrad Schweitzer ’90 of Hesston, KS, purchased Sorb Computers, a computer consulting and repair company in Hillsboro, KS.

Gale Hess ’97 of Lancaster, PA recently won 2nd place in a benefit bicycle race around the periphery of Lancaster County.

Leah J. Yoder ’06 traveled to Tanzania during this last spring semester along with 19 fellow Goshen students. This trip was a Goshen College Study-Service Term led by Goshen’s professor of History Jan Bender Shetler and her husband peter. Visit the group’s blog at http://www.goshen.edu/sst/tanzania08/.

GIVING BACK 14

Les Schwab Tire Center - West Salem * Lincoln Store * Lind Chiropractic * Mennonite Disaster Service Norpac Foods Inc. Olson Farms Pacific Pride Services * Penn Machine Company Pietro’s Restaurant Group, Inc. Pioneer Printing Inc. * Preferred Mortgage Brokers * Pt Northwest * RE/MAX Equity Group * Rickreall Farm Supply * Rite Way Electric * Rock of Ages Mennonite Home * Salem Electric * Schrock Media Enterprises Target Timothy Kreder Farms * Today’s Hair Salon & Day Spa * Town & Country Bowling United Way US Bancorp Valley Fire Control, Inc. Washington Mutual Wells Fargo West Coast Bank *

West Salem Business Association Westside Newspaper * Young’s Family Farm

ChurchesAlbany Mennonite Church Evergreen Mennonite Church Filer Mennonite Church Hyde Park Mennonite Church Lebanon Mennonite Church Pacific Covenant Mennonite Church Plainview Mennonite Church Portland Mennonite Church Salem Mennonite Church Sweet Home Mennonite Church The River Mennonite Church Warden Mennonite Church Western Mennonite Church Zion Mennonite Church

EstatesLetha Gingerich Janice Krause Charity Kropf Ivan Kropf Katie & Marcus Lind Helen Thomas

Clarence & Ruth Reeser Marcelo & Kristi Rodriguez Ken & Myrna Roth Catherine Ryan Marie Rydell Peggy Schmidt Bernice Schmucker Perry & Audrey Schrock Sherman & Vivian Schwartz Gordon & Marie Scoville Byron & Ina Shenk Bill & Gerry Sherin Louise Shultz Mary Ann Sims Grace Slatter Duncan & Charlene Smith Tom & Marie Smith Erma Snyder Norman & Mildred Steckley Ernestine Stout Jana Stowell Wayne & Sharon Stuart Doris Stutzman Roger & Mary Stutzman Jackie & Warren Swartzendruber David & Cheryl Tate Randall Toews Mike & Candi Tompkins Brad & JoAnn Tongue Wilbur & Nadene Troyer

John & Marlene Unruh Sedonia Urbigkeit Donald & Patricia Van Hees Graham & Patricia Weeks James & Mary Wenger Paul & Helen White John & Dora Willems Vernell Williams Lanette & Eddie Willig Albert & Margaret Wipf Mary Ellen Woodard Brian & Tammy Wright Don & Karen Zapata Delvin & Twila Zook

Businesses & Program Sponsors *Allen Construction Co. Bimart Blazer Industries Cascade Roofing of Salem, Inc * Edward Jones * Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold Gerig Wood Design Glass Magnum * JC Media Group * Johnson, Glaze & Co. Jones Oil Company * Kelly’s Home Center *

Thank You 2008 Donors

Scott Hochstetler FF/S has accepted a position in the music department at Goshen College in Goshen Indiana.

Tim Fahndrich ’85 received the New Business of the Year Award from Salem Area Chamber of Commerce for his business The Third River, Inc that teachers fellow business owners to harness the power of the internet by presenting seminars on social networking and blogging, internet marketing

Lee (Kropf) Snyder ’59 will serve as interim provost at Eastern Mennonite University for the 2008-2009 school year. Lee was vice president and academic dean of EMU for 12 years before becoming president of Bluffton University in Ohio.

Jesse Heyerly ’06 was one of 27 Goshen College students to be recognized as NAIA-Daktronics All American Student Athletes.

Reunions35th Class Reunion for classes’ 1973, 1974 & 1975 at WMS campus July 10-12, 2009. For more information contact Ray Schrock ’74 at ray@forslundcrane.com.

Class of ‘59 will be holding its 50 year class reunion the weekend of July 17-19 on the Western campus. All classmates are encouraged to attend.

Class of 1999’s ten year reunion is set for August 7-9, 2009 at WMS campus. For more information contact Nicole (Stutzman) King at kingfam4@q.com.

CondolencesRon Roth ’78 husband of Eileen Roth ’77 passed away on July 1, 2007 from colon cancer.

Ruth (Holderman) Davidhizar ’64 passed away September 11, 2008.

Ron Reeser ’53 passed away December 16, 2008.

MarriagesRussell Adrian F/S and Camille Birky FF/S were married on July 19t, 2008 at First Mennonite Church in Mountain Lake, MN.

Dale Birky ’59 married Betty Thomas on October 11, 2008 at Mountain View Mennonite Church in Kalispell, Montana.

Leo Zook ’56 and Mim (Snyder) ’63 were married on April 27, 2008.

Send News & Address Changes Cheryl Mayo Western Mennonite School 9045 Wallace Rd NW Salem, OR 97304 503-363-2000 ph\ 503-370-9455 fax cmayo@westernmennoniteschool.org Let us know your email address

Mar. 23-27 Spring BreakMar. 26-30 A cappella Spring Tour to WashingtonApr. 4 Jr/Sr Spring BanquetApr. 10 Good Friday – No ClassesApr. 17-20 MSC Music Festival Apr. 24 In-Service Day/ Teacher Grading DayApr. 23-26 Weekend Dorm TripMay 2 37th Annual Western Benefit AuctionMay 4 Auction Appreciation Day – No ClassesMay 4 A cappella RecordingMay 7 National Day of PrayerMay 7 High School State Choir CompetitionMay 9-11 Senior Class TripMay 12 High School Visitors DayMay 13 Middle School Visitors Day May 14-16 Spring Drama PerformancesMay 17 A cappella Choir Tour DayMay 28 Middle School Spring Concert & Awards NightMay 29 High School Spring Concert & Awards Night

A bus driver is needed for Western’s sports teams. If you are interested in this opportunity, but do not have a CDL, talk to Rich Martin.

A High School Chemistry, Physics, and Physical Science Teacher is needed.

For more information and an application contact Darrel Camp at dcamp@westernmennoniteschool.org

CHECK OUT WESTERN’S NEW Website!

www.westernmennoniteschool.org

Board Members

Merlin AeschlimanCheeri Barnhart (Chair)Dave DetweilerLinda DibbleJohn HochstetlerFloyd LappRon LitwillerKevin Rediger

Calendar Employment OpportunitiesWestern Mennonite School9045 Wallace Rd NWSalem, OR 97304

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PAIDSalem, OR

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