24
Viking Lakeland Christian School e Early Childhood Center – Wonderful Home for LCS Youngest March 2010 Campaign Receives Final Commitment See Page 3
VikingLakeland Chris t ian School
The
Early Childhood Center – Wonderful Home for LCS Youngest
March 2010
Campaign Receives Final Commitment
See Page 3
error is caught and
corrected, the better.
All of us, adults
and students, are
vulnerable to the
subtle influences of
our culture and our
own fallen nature.
We tend to slide
into the pattern of
seeing all of life from
a self-referential
bias. (That is to say,
“It’s all about me!”)
We can get away
from the basics, the
fundamentals of
our faith – regular time reading the scriptures and in prayer,
faithfulness in our corporate worship on the Lord’s Day, and
praying together as a family. Our hearts slowly become cold
and indifferent, our family relationships seem strained, and we
wonder why life just doesn’t seem as meaningful and fulfilling
as it should.
One of the goals of the Christian school is to keep the basics
of the faith before the minds and hearts of the students and the
staff every day. We recognize that we have a tendency to drift,
to begin to depend on our own short-range thinking and rely on
our own understanding (Proverbs 3:4-6). We realize that as we
pursue excellence in academics, fine arts and athletics, we must
always remember that true wisdom flows from God (Proverbs
1:7). This orientation must shape every aspect of our study and
activity if we are to be truly educated.
On the home front, it is essential that parents prioritize not
only school attendance, but also faithful participation in the
local church that preaches and teaches the Bible as the Word
of God. The authentic application of the gospel in the home
underscores the teaching of the church and school. As Lewis
points out, there must be regular, daily intake of the basics of
the faith to prevent drift. This is not because the message of the
faith is weak. It is because we are weak and so prone to forget, to
neglect and to drift.
Christianity is about Truth. But it is not just a philosophical
system to be adopted. It involves a personal relationship with
Last summer’s trip to the gulf beaches seems like
a distant memory this time of year. Winter newspapers
feature pictures of strawberry fields covered in ice and
rumors of snowflake sightings in Polk County. Surf, sand
and sunscreen are still many weeks away.
There is something soothing about floating around in
the gulf. The sensations of being gently lifted and lowered
by the waves seem to instill feelings of peaceful calm. It is
a stark contrast to the typical days back home.
One of the intriguing phenomena of this experience
is the subtle, incremental effect of the gulf currents. As we
are lulled into a welcome state of relaxation and peace,
we are ever-so-slowly being acted upon by the forces of the
water. When our time of reverie is drawing to a close and
we determine to head for the shore, we are often startled to
find out that we have drifted down the beach. We discover
that we are several properties away
from where we entered the water!
How did this movement escape our
notice? How did we drift so far so fast?
I have learned that I must continually
check the shore line in order to keep
my position constant.
In C. S. Lewis’ classic work, Mere
Christianity, he reflects on those who
appear to have lost their faith. “…if
you examined a hundred people who
had lost their faith in Christianity,
I wonder how many of them would
turn out to have been reasoned out of it by honest
argument? Do not most people simply drift away?” (p. 141)
In this chapter on faith, he cautions the reader to be
aware of the fact that our moods change but that faith
holds onto what is believed, even in the face of changing
moods. He encourages the believer to prevent drift by
being “continually reminded of what we believe.” He
exhorts us to deliberately hold the main doctrines of our
faith before our minds every day.
Every teacher knows the powerful effect of repetition.
The fundamentals of any field of study must continually
be reviewed. The basics are always the basics. Whether the
error is in mathematical computation or in the application
of biblical principles to life’s decisions, the sooner the
Drift PreventionBy Dr. Mike Sligh, Headmaster
“He encourages the believer to prevent drift by being ‘continually reminded of what we believe.’”
continued on page 4
1
in this issue
p2-3 p4 p5 Campaign news scholarships Musical harvest
p8-11 p12-13 p17 sports Fine Arts Alumni news
Have you ever wondered what it’s like in the K4/K5 world
at LCS? If so, consider this your invitation to learn about
this very special place. Of course, you are always welcome to
observe our program in action! And here’s what you may find …
You may be asked by one of our students to join them in
designing a building with blocks … you might be asked to help
create a unique elephant mask … children may ask
you to join them for breakfast in their kitchen –
grab your apron and get ready to cook! ... you’ll
likely get to dig through a huge tub of rice in
search of specific letters … you may need a
smock to protect your clothes from the finger
paint and a gooey mess.
“Special” is a great word to describe the
Early Childhood experience at LCS. Children
enjoy exciting centers, field trips, Grandparent’s
Day, special holiday events, compete in the
Elementary Olympics, and enjoy special musicals,
piano events and other performances.
This barely scratches the surface of the fun
our little ones have – all the while learning as they
are “playing.” In addition, our children dance and
sing God’s praises each morning … create and discover as they
rotate through centers … run, climb and ride tricycles on our
fabulous Curls Family Playland.
You may need patience as you search for shark’s teeth on
our playground. We are thankful for the parents who have
recovered umpteen shark’s teeth in their dryers
at home; we have been able to recycle quite
a few teeth.
And, while you’re here for a visit, you’ll
not want to miss the turtle pond. This
child’s wonderland, provided through
a gift from the MacKinnon-Hill Family
Foundation, features natural Florida
rocks, plants, a waterfall, tiny fish and,
of course, those amazing turtles!
K4 Program Thoughtfully Prepares Whole Child
When your K4/K5 child joins the LCS
family, they will live, laugh, love and learn.
Lakeland Christian’s Early Childhood
LCS Early Childhood Program: Learning is in the Fun!
continued on page 7
By Luci O’Byrne, Primary Grades Principal
2
With the recent completion
of funding commitments toward
the Early Childhood Center
campaign, LCS now focuses on
the wrap-up of the multi-year
Deliver the Dream capital
fund-raising effort. Only $5
Million now remains to be raised
to complete the funding of $23
Million of campus expansion
and renovation.
The Deliver the Dream
campaign, initiated in 2006,
represents the most massive
expansion in school history, and
includes the construction of the
new school maintenance facility,
the placement of retention ponds
and other major infrastructure,
the substantial expansion of
school parking, the creation of
a new main entrance, and – of
course – the construction of the
71,000-square-foot Elementary/
Middle School Building, the
signature building on campus.
Through God’s gracious
provision and by the generosity
of the LCS family and the
Lakeland community, the
campus has also grown
to include:
• Viking Stadium –
a $2.6 Million campaign
completed in 2008, and
• Center for Early
Childhood Education –
a $1.25 Million campaign
completed in January, 2010.
All of the funding for these
campaigns and for the $19
Million Deliver the Dream effort
has been privately raised. The
school has even been blessed
with five seven-figure gifts, the
first in school history.
With two major campaigns
“in the books,” the school’s
Advancement team and
campaign leadership now
set their sights on obtaining
the final $5 Million of
commitments for this effort
which has produced such
dramatic and positive change
for the LCS campus.
Dr. Mike Sligh, LCS
Headmaster, is quick to point
out that the campaign has been
about far more than just raising
money for bricks and mortar. “It
is about seizing the opportunity
to shape the hearts and minds
of many, many students who
will go on to shape
Two Major Campaigns Completed
Deliver the Dream Campaign Moves to Wrap-Up Phase
the future of our community,”
said Dr. Sligh. “We stand on
the threshold of unparalleled
opportunity to influence the
leaders of tomorrow.”
So, who will be these
final “investors in the next
generation?” Anyone and
everyone! Friends who
stepped up to kickoff the
campaign will be asked to
help finish what they began.
And, of course, those who
haven’t given will be asked to
now partner with LCS in this
critical completion phase.
For more information on
how you or a member of your
family can make your mark on
young lives, please contact LCS
Director of Advancement Steve
Wilson at 863/688-2771 or at
3
God continues to bless Lakeland
Christian School in remarkable
ways. In less than two years from
campaign kickoff, the drive to fund
the $1.25 Million Center for Early
Childhood Education has received its
final gift commitment.
This means the money needed
to construct and furnish this
beautiful facility for the school’s
youngest students has all been given
or pledged. The final $40,000 check
was recently provided by a school
family, capping off a campaign that
attracted gifts from $25 to $100,000.
Even though the needed $1.25
Million has been fully committed,
the school still looks to receive
$253,000 in outstanding pledges to
the campaign.
The Early Childhood Center is
located in the safe and convenient
core of the LCS campus and includes:
• The Ladd Educational Suite
for K4 students
• The Curls Family Playland
for outdoor fun and excitement
• The MacKinnon-Hill
Outdoor Learning Center
amphitheatre and Turtletown,
a natural Florida habitat for
unique educational experiences
• The Kindergarten Suite for K5
students, including a spectacular
gathering commons room.
The Center is part of a $23
LCS Completes Early Childhood CampaignGenerous Gift Marks Final Commitment
Million major campus expansion
and renovation which has blessed
the school over the past several years.
The Early Childhood campaign was
conducted through the leadership
of school parents Payton Albritton,
Deanna Bayless, Denise Curls and
Amanda Drost.
The ultimate beneficiaries of this
campaign generosity, of course, are
the four- and five-year-old children
beginning their formal education
at Lakeland Christian School. These
youngsters now enjoy a spacious and
beautiful facility where skilled and
nurturing Early Childhood faculty
members can do their best work in the
hearts and minds of little ones.
4
Jesus Christ. It is about growing in our understanding of His
love and provision for us and demonstrating that same grace
to one another. The tragic tale of broken human relationships
is sometimes described by the words, “we just drifted apart.” It
takes intentional effort to maintain human relationships. It takes
an intentional focus on Christ and on Truth to maintain a vital
relationship with the Savior as well.
The currents at the beach can leave us far from home before
we realize it. The neglect of our personal relationship with the
Lord and the neglect of the application of biblical Truth
to every area of life and study will leave us drifting
away as well.
The three-fold influence of the Christian school, the
Christian home and the church can hold the truths of
the faith before our students each day. Together, we can
be used of God to provide the reference points on the
shore that enable our students to hold their position and
advance against the currents that would lead them astray.
Drift Prevention continued from inside front cover
Scholarship Funding Sought For Upper Classmen
In a day when investments are uncertain at best, there is still a place where contributed money guarantees a positive return
… with lifelong impact. What could be better than investing in the Christian education of young people whose completion of an
LCS diploma is in financial jeopardy!?
The impact of the country’s economic woes, first felt on Wall Street, has now worked its way from
Main Street to Forest Park Street. Simply put, more LCS families are in need of more financial
aid than at anytime in the school’s 56-year history.
And one school grandparent has stepped up to make a difference. Following a
Spring 2009 grandparents’ focus group meeting, this long-time Lakelander – along with
his business partner, who is also an LCS grandparent – committed a lead gift to fund
scholarships for current LCS juniors and seniors. His heart was breaking for students who
were in jeopardy of not being able to complete their LCS education. So, they wrote a
generous check and challenged the school to raise more funds for this specific
use. In typical generous fashion, the LCS constituency responded with gifts
totaling more than $70,000 for the 2009-10 school year.
Realizing the economy’s impact is still severe, these same two
grandparents have committed to another lead gift for the 2010-11 school
year and have challenged the school to again raise financial aid for
juniors and seniors.
Will you join them in this critical effort? Due in large part to
last year’s giving, the school was able to provide a record amount of
financial aid assistance. Even more may be necessary for the coming
school year. Please consider investing in the lives of
the next generation in this valuable way. The dividends
are life-changing.
For more information on being a part of this exciting effort,
please contact LCS Director of Advancement Steve Wilson at 863/688-
2771 or at [email protected].
5
Musical Harvest Entertains Record Crowd, Reaps Unprecedented Return
Proceeds Boost Early Childhood Campaign
The Musical Harvest grew up in a hurry. In
only its third year as the school’s classy fall fund-
raiser, this premier community-wide musical event
drew its largest audience and almost doubled the
previous largest profit.
Net proceeds for the November extravaganza
totaled nearly $73,000, all of which were immedi-
ately applied to the campaign to fund the school’s
new Center for Early Childhood Education. The
proceeds put the campaign within striking distance
of realizing an end-of-the-year completion.
The brainchild of school parents Greg and
Christina Sale, the Musical Harvest combines
nationally acclaimed musical talent who perform
live and on-stage with LCS student musicians and
vocalists. The Sales – who are two of Lakeland’s
most renowned singers/musicians – annually
attract performers from New York, Chicago and
other top venues.
This year’s program welcomed back Sarah
Hagstrom, named Most Promising Young Artist
in America; Mark Thomsen from Metropolitan
Opera; Craig Irvin from Chicago Lyric Opera;
Dr. Christy Lee, renowned pianist and program
director; and Christina Sale, who has performed
in leading productions around the world.
The special evening again featured popular
Broadway standards, including selections from
“Oklahoma”, “Annie Get Your Gun”, “Oliver”,
“Man of La Mancha”, “My Fair Lady”, “Cats” and
“Phantom of the Opera.” The program concluded
with moving Christian classics, ending with “You
Raise Me Up.”
The LCS student contingent of
performers – wearing their formal best –
was also the largest ever for a Musical
Harvest. More than
156 vocalists from
grades four through
twelve joined the LCS
Symphonic Winds
in the “opera house
feel” of downtown
Lakeland’s Trinity
Presbyterian Church.
The largest amount previously
raised at a Musical Harvest was $46,000.
This year’s record amount was provided
through the contributions of generous
sponsors, host families, Gold Patron
Packages and General Admission Seating.
In addition, sponsors, host families and
Gold Patrons were invited to attend an
“after-party” at the beautiful home of
title sponsors Bill and Amanda Drost.
This reception featured a live auction,
which raised a record $23,675. School
grandparent Kale Albritton served as the
lively and entertaining auctioneer.
As with all school fund raising
activities, the beneficiaries of the event
are the students of LCS, and in this case,
the youngest on campus. The Center for
Early Childhood Education serves as the
daily home for the K4 and K5 children.
3 R D A N N U A L
L A K E L A N D C H R I S T I A N S C H O O L
TiTle SponSor
Bill & Amanda Drost
SponSorS
Jack & Tina Harrell Kevin & Lois Knowlton MIDFLORIDA Credit Union OMS The NCT Group CPA’s, LLP Sale Insurance Peterson & Myers, P.A. Philip Sebring
HoSTS
Keith & Payton Albritton Dave & Connie Aplin Tom & Bena Bayless Ralph & Pat Blalock Richard & Rosemary Cardosi Brian & Ramona Carroll Bob & Kim Cleghorn Joe & Susan DiCesare Patrick & Kristine Fagan Ben & Wendy Falk Rob & Regina Harper Barbara Hart Bennett & Pam Hill Kevin & Sylvia Jones Larry & Anita Maxwell Jeff & Shannon Miles Corey & Jaimi Miller Paul & Adele Morgan Steve & Lisa Moseley Bennie Jo Murray Brad & Melissa Murray Oz & Jean Mutz Angie Register Buddy & Dama Register Greg & Christina Sale Streamline & Bonnie Sale Conrad & Sherry Varnum Steve & Susie Wilson
6
God’s provision to LCS is unmistakable. In this instance, He worked
through the generous heart of a school grandmother who made a simple
observation while attending a school function. Her perceptive observation led
to a gift that provided 16 new computers for use by elementary students
at Lakeland Christian.
This generous grandmother – who wishes to remain anonymous – was
attending the Christmas party in the classroom of her third grade grandson.
While the children were celebrating with their classmates, some students were
also taking their AR reading test on the one classroom computer dedicated for
student use. Although this grandmother was a frequent visitor and classroom
volunteer, she particularly noticed the students scrambling to complete their test
on this day – the last school day prior to Christmas break.
Over the holidays, as she thought about the line of students waiting to
use the one computer, she inquired with the school’s Advancement office –
not only about her grandson’s classroom, but about the number of student
computers throughout the
elementary grades.
After gathering
the facts, she quickly
responded with a
generous end-of-the-year
gift, which provided
each elementary
classroom with a
minimum of two
student computers,
with a total of 16 new
computers in all. This
gift also provided three
computers (within the
16 total) for the special
programs classroom.
“What a blessing that someone has stepped up to provide such an
abundance of technology for our students,” said Elementary Principal Fred
Wiechmann. “Our classrooms now have even more tools that will allow our
professional faculty to enhance the learning during these critical years.”
In addition to providing for the LCS students, this open-hearted
grandmother has demonstrated the significant impact that can be made through
charitable giving to Lakeland Christian. For more information on how you
can partner with the school and make a difference in the lives of children and
young people, please contact LCS Director of Advancement Steve Wilson at
863/688-2771 or at [email protected].
Christmas Party Visit Leads to Generous Gift
LCS Grandparent Provides16 Student Computers
Dr. Mike Sligh Elected to FCIS
Board of Directors
Lakeland Christian School
Headmaster Dr. Mike Sligh was
elected to the Board of Directors of
the Florida Council of Independent
Schools (FCIS) at the annual
convention this past fall. The FCIS
convention was held at Champions
Gate. This board provides strategic
planning and leadership for the
organization’s various activities
including accreditation, professional
development, insurance and
benefits programs and the
representation of independent
school interests before state leaders
and legislators in Tallahassee.
The FCIS was founded in 1954
and is responsible for evaluating
and accrediting independent
schools throughout Florida. The
organization represents more than
72,000 students in 153 member
schools. The Council assures
that each school maintains high
standards and independence
of character without political,
financial or bureaucratic pressures.
The Council is an association
member of the National Association
of Independent Schools (NAIS), an
affiliate of the Council of American
Private Education (CAPE), and a
founding member of the Florida
Association of Academic Nonpublic
Schools (FAANS).
Students like Dylan Gray, in Mrs. Debbie Stump’s class, enjoy the
convenience of having multiple computers in their classroom.
77
program is developmentally appropriate, which encourages
children to grow and mature naturally in every area of life.
The K4 program prepares the whole child for the
K5 program. By the end of the K4 year, the goal is for
each child to be well-prepared socially, emotionally and
academically for K5. The faculty determines where each
child is within each of these important areas of their life.
Each child is considered as an individual, and the staff
meets each where he or she is. In fact, each child may be at
a different level in each area of development.
LCS Early Childhood teachers consistently pray that
the children will strengthen self-control, the ability to focus,
and that they will obey promptly. These three behaviors
will form the foundation necessary for students to increase
academic strides.
Children Blessed with Skilled, Nurturing FacultyLCS Early Childhood faculty members are passionate
about their work with the youngest children on campus.
These teachers live for the Lord and serve at LCS because
they really want to be here! Their love for the Lord
overflows as they intentionally model that attribute
for the students.
Even at this youngest level, the faculty teaches each
subject and activity in the light of God’s Word. The teachers
do an amazing job of applying the scriptures to the young
lives in their care. They are encouraged to find that some
of the children already understand the gift of salvation.
Early Childhood teachers also clearly understand
the value of establishing a partnership with parents.
Faculty members develop a plan in concert with parents
to determine what needs to be done and a strategy for
reaching these goals. This partnership creates a consistent home and
school environment.
Each teacher in the program is certified, and they specialize in
specific educational areas as they work as a team.
Laughter Important Part of Solid Educational Foundation
More than just a Reader’s Digest moniker, laughter is truly an
integral part of the LCS Early Childhood program. Visitors will hear
the sounds of laughter from teachers and students throughout the day.
Children can tell if their teacher loves what they do, and
laughter is one revealing signal. In fact, staff has been known to
laugh so much that some parents have even wanted to work at LCS!
This positive approach stems from the love the teachers have
for the Lord and for the children. Faculty members love to serve and
work diligently to use their gifts to create the best program possible.
Teachers invest much of their time helping students learn to problem
solve, create and discover God’s world.
Classrooms are uniquely designed and connected to facilitate
the complete education delivered within the program. For instance,
LCS K4 students have the opportunity to travel safely between
classrooms without leaving the Ladd Educational Suite.
As students travel interiorly among numerous centers … some
may begin their journey in housekeeping (a small house within the
classroom covered with real shingles!) ... others may spend time
designing a building with blocks as teachers extend vocabulary
and teach thematically through literature.
Each classroom in both buildings is equipped with interactive
SMARTBoards, which allow children to complete reading, math and
science activities as a group or individually. Students also have the
opportunity to participate in Spanish, art, music, PE, computer lab
and library – all taught by certified and experienced teachers.
LCS Early Childhood Program – Learning is in the Fun! continued from page 1
8
The Florida Athletic Coaches Association has named its 2009-2010
basketball players and coaches of the year, and three from LCS have
earned top honors.
For boys’ basketball, senior Chris Cleghorn was selected as the
Class 2A Player of the Year, and first-year head coach Todd Radford was
honored as the Class 2A Coach of the Year.
Sophomore Whitney Houk was chosen as the Class 2A Player of
the Year for girls’ basketball.
FACA Honors Basketball Players, Coach
With a new head coach in charge, the LCS Viking
varsity basketball team had a successful season, despite a
heartbreaking last-second loss in the District final game.
With the retirement of coach Ray Deardorff, LCS alum and
current assistant athletic director Todd Radford moved to the
head coaching position for the Vikings. The team went into the
Christmas break with a record of 6-4 after winning the
LCS Holiday Hoops Tournament.
January proved to be a good month for the Vikings as
they won six of their nine games, including two big wins over
district rival Santa Fe Catholic. The team squared off against
Santa Fe in the semifinal round of the District tournament,
easily defeating the Crimson Hawks by a score of 64-40.
In the District final game, the New Dimensions High School
Tigers hit a three-pointer in the last three seconds of the game
to give them a 60-57 win over the Vikings. In the Regional
Quarterfinal round, the Vikings lost to Tampa Prep, ending
their season with a record of 12-10.
The JV boys’ team, coached by Craig Wilsman, finished
with a record of 7-4. The junior high JV team was coached by
Dwayne McDow and went 6-3. The junior high varsity
team finished with a record
of 10-3 and was coached by
Jim Boatwright.
Boys’ Basketball Team Drops Heartbreaker in District Finals
After a rough start to the 09-10 girls’
varsity basketball season, the young
Lady Viking team fought its way to a
District championship title over rival
Santa Fe Catholic.
Starting the season with a record
of 0-6, the Lady Vikes earned their first
win with a 45-34 decision over Lakeland
High School in early December. Their next
win came almost a month later when the
team defeated Santa Fe for the first of three
victories over the district rival.
In the Class 2A, District 9
championship game, the Vikings claimed
a 59-34 victory over Santa Fe. Christin
Strawbridge tallied 16 points for the Lady
Vikings, with Whitney Houk adding 15
and Amanda Carl racking up 14 points.
In the Regional Quarterfinals, the
team posted a 54-41 win over Tampa
Prep before falling to Indian Rocks, 66-39,
in the Regional Semifinal round.
The Lady Vikings were coached
by Keith Overholt and finished with
a record of 7-16.
The girls’ middle school basketball A team
finished at 8-6, while the B team went 2-5
Lady Vikings Clinch
District Title
9
After losing in last year’s district tournament for
the first time in 16 years, the boys’ varsity soccer team
was anxious to regain the title of District Champion
this year. Under the leadership of LCS alum Grandy
Streets, the Viking team did just that when they
earned a 5-0 victory over Seffner Christian.
The Vikings had a strong
first half to their season,
going into the Christmas
break with a record of
8-3. The team defeated both
Vanguard and First Academy by a score of 9-0
before defeating area rival Santa Fe, 4-1.
Vikings Re-Claim District Title After Christmas, the Vikings went 4-3 before the
tournament. In the first round of Districts, the team easily
handled All Saints’ Academy by a score of 6-0. After
the Vikings won the District championship over Seffner
Christian, the team hosted and defeated Trinity Prep by a
narrow 1-0 margin.
The team dropped a disappointing 2-0 loss to Florida
Air Academy in the Regional semifinal game, ending the
season with a record of 15 wins and seven losses.
The JV boys’ team was coached by Bernardo Blanco
and finished their season with a record of 9-2-1. The
junior high boys’ team, coached by Rich McDonald, won
six games, lost five and tied one game.
When cross-town district rival Santa Fe broke a
12-year district championship winning streak, the
Lady Vikings varsity soccer team was anxious to get
revenge when they faced off in the semifinal round of
the Regional tournament. The girls’ team took down the
Crimson Hawks, 4-1, on their way to the Regional Finals.
The Lady Vikings, coached by LCS alum Jason
Streets, started off their season with some big wins and
a 7-0 winning streak. They easily handled both Tenoroc
and Lakeland, claiming 8-0 victories. They finished 7-1
against Kathleen and All Saints. A 0-0 tie against Lake
Region marred their perfect record, followed by a 4-0 loss
to Berkeley Prep and a 0-0 tie against Tampa Prep.
In their first match-up of the season, the Vikings tied
Santa Fe by a score of 3-3. When the teams met up again
in early January, the Lady Vikes came up with a 1-0 win.
Girls’ Soccer Team Gets Revenge on Santa Fe in Regional Semifinals
The girls’ soccer team easily won the District semifinal game over
All Saints’ Academy by a score of 7-0. In the District finals, Santa Fe
snapped the 12-year District championship streak by a score of 2-1.
The Lady Vikings then went on the road for the Regional
quarterfinal game, where they defeated Trinity Prep by a score of 2-1.
After getting revenge on the Crimson Hawks in the semifinals, the team
traveled to St. John’s Country Day for the Regional final game. Down
1-0 at halftime, Kourtney Rea scored early in the
second half to tie the game and force overtime.
St. John’s scored first in the overtime, for
a 2-1 victory of the Vikings. The team
finished with a record of 16-7-2.
The JV team, coached by Kelly
Joyner-Veteto and Roger Evans,
finished their season with an
undefeated record of 12-0-1.
LCS junior Rachel Munson represented the Lady Vikings at the FHSAA Class 1A
Swimming and Diving Championships in November. She earned 11 total points for her
team, giving the Vikings a 29th place finish out of the 41 teams represented at the meet.
Munson finished 11th place in the 100-meter breaststroke with a time of 1:07.13.
In the 100-meter butterfly, she finished in 12th
place with a time of 59:23.
Munson Swims at State Meet
9
10
Lakeland Christian cross-country runners represented Polk County well at the
2009 FHSAA Cross Country Championships in late November, despite a plague of injuries
and illnesses that affected the majority of LCS runners.
Rebecca “Spookie” Eaves finished in 18th place with a time of 19:42 – the highest
finish of any other male or female runner in Polk County. Her time helped the
Lady Vikings to a ninth-place team finish.
Mark Mutz ran the course in 17:02.91. The boys’
team finished in sixth place with 261 points.
LCS Runners Earn Best Finish in Polk County
The Florida High
School Athletics
Association has named
the Academic Team
Champions for the fall
sports season, and one
Lakeland Christian
team topped the
list for having the
highest grade point
average in the state.
The girls’ golf
team earned this
top honor in
Class 1A with
a cumulative
team GPA of
3.953. The Viking linksters topped other
schools including Holy Names (Tampa),
Dreyfoos (West Palm Beach), Berkeley Prep
(Tampa) and Trinity Prep (Winter Park).
The boys’ football team finished in
the number four spot in Class 1A with a
cumulative team GPA of 3.236. The girls’
swim and dive team also finished fourth
with a 3.648.
Winning schools receive a
commemorative state championship
plaque at the end of the school year.
The Ledger has named its All-County athletes for the fall
sports season, and several Viking athletes were honored for their
accomplishments.
For football, Marcus Stone was named to the Offense Second Team.
Offense honorable mentions went to Rob Harper, Ryan Parrish and
Jake Marzola. For Defense, Blake Averitt earned an honorable mention.
Hailee Bennett was named to the All-County Third Team for
Volleyball, while teammates Alison Sizemore and Kali Boatwright
earned honorable mentions.
In boys’ golf, honorable mentions went to Blake Crosby, Hayden
Hill and Ethan Brewington. For girls’ golf, Hannah Webster was named
to the All-County Second Team. Zoe Wilson, Lauren Wasilewski, Kelsey
Casto, Shelby Pierce and Ellen Sharpe earned honorable mention.
Mallory White was named the All-County Runner of the Year for
girls’ cross-country, as well as being named to the First Team. Spookie
Eaves and Jessica Fuller also earned First Team honors. Carrie Kirby,
Ashlyne Wells and Mary Lanzino earned honorable mentions. Mark
Mutz was named to the All-County First Team for boys’ cross-country.
Chris Lopez, Taylor Scruggs and Welbie Houghton were given
honorable mentions.
For girls’ swimming, Rachel Munson was named All-County
Swimmer of the Year. Munson, Ly Velez and Sarah Mora
were named to the All-County First Team.
Honorable mentions went to Lindsey
Smith, Stephanie Powers, Meredith
Munson, Caitlin Robb and Olivia
Schichtel. For boys’ swimming,
honorable mentions were given
to Luke Yrastorza, Nathan
Lain, Mitch Devore,
Landon Miles, Dallas
Connell and Josh
McGaffigan.
LCS Athletes Earn Fall All-County Honors
FHSAA Awards Fall Academic Team Champions
For the first time in Lakeland Christian School history, a Viking coach was
inducted into the Florida Athletic Coaches Association (FACA) Hall of Fame.
Long-time varsity soccer coach Dean Johnson, who retired after the
2006-2007 season, finished his varsity coaching career with a boys’ record of
514-95-24, with 24 District titles (the last 15 consecutive), 10 Regional titles,
four State Runner-Up finishes and six State Championships from 1979-2007.
Under his leadership, the LCS boys’ team twice finished the season with a
NSCAA Top 25 National ranking.
Coach Johnson started the girls’ soccer program in 1994, which he
coached until 2004 with a record of 180-46-17. The girls’ team earned six
District titles, two Regional championships and one State Runner-Up award.
Johnson was inducted into the FACA Hall of Fame at a ceremony held in
Daytona Beach on December 13.
Former Coach Dean Johnson Inducted into FACA Hall of Fame
Retired head soccer coach Dean Johnson (right), joined by
Dr. Mike Sligh, was inducted into the FACA Hall of Fame in December.
LCS alum Tim Green was
recently named to the National
Christian College Athletic
Association All- American Men’s
Soccer First Team.
A junior at Cedarville
University in Cedarville, Ohio,
Green was one of four defenders
on the 14-player first team. This
is the second year that Green has
earned this honor, making him only
the second player in the history of
the Cedarville soccer program to
be a two-time honoree.
Green was also recognized as
a NCCAA Scholar-Athlete.
Alum Honored by NCCAA
The Lakeland Christian School varsity cheerleading squad placed second
in the Fellowship of Christian Cheerleaders state competition held at Masters
Academy in Oviedo on November 21. Competing in the large varsity category, the
Viking squad performed a two-minute routine consisting of squad jumps, stunts,
tumbling, dancing and a cheer. The Viking squad, which has not competed in
many years, finished second behind Evangelical Christian
School of Fort Myers.
Viking Cheerleaders Earn 2nd Place in State Competition
11
12
This year’s fall musical exploded with song,
imagination and color as a mischievous cat, tiny
Whos, a huge elephant, brightly colored jungle citizens,
sleepy circus creatures, colorful fish, blue waves, and a
couple of very sour kangaroos performed Seussical on
the Lakeland Christian School stage.
It took the combined gifted ability of seventy-five students, six faculty members, a former
student, a set construction team, a set design team, two costume ladies, several make-up artists,
and many, many parents to present this spectacular show. The cast started working on the
second day of school and logged over 85 hours of practice to present the four performances
from October 22-24.
More than 100 children and parents attended Saturday’s Seussical Brunch, where they were
served many items including green eggs and ham. The principal Seussical characters interacted
with the children at the brunch. As their parents snapped pictures, the children sat spellbound
while listening to the Cat (senior Russell Aldridge) read to them.
In addition to performing for opening night, 17 cast members performed several Seussical
numbers to five area nursing homes and/or assisted-living facilities.
Colorful and Whimsical ‘Seussical’ Delights Crowds
During the month of December,
the LCS choirs had many opportunities
to present the truth of Christmas to
members of the Lakeland community.
On Thursday, December 3, the Junior
High Choir visited Oakbridge Assisted
Living Unit singing Christmas carols
and spending time talking with the
residents. On Thursday, December
10, the 6th Grade Choir visited the
Memory Care Unit at Oakbridge,
singing familiar carols. It was exciting
to see the residents singing along as
students were able to connect them
to Christmas music of their past.
On Friday, December 11, the High
School Concert Choir and Chamber
Ensemble presented a program to
the South Lakeland Rotary Club,
held at First United Methodist
Church on Lake Morton.
On Wednesday, December 9,
the High School Concert Choir and
Chamber Ensemble participated
Choirs Perform Various Christmas Concerts
in Disney’s Epcot Candlelight
Processional, performing in two
shows. The choir was selected by
audition and was part of a mass
choir of approximately 300 students.
Candlelight presents the Biblical
Christmas story in narration and
song, including arrangements of
many familiar carols. The celebrity
guest narrator for the evening was
Andy Garcia.
13
Several Lakeland Christian band
students were chosen to participate as
members of the Polk All-County Bands.
These musicians will perform with some
of the best secondary band students from
the county on April 16, 2010, at Florida
Southern College’s Branscomb Auditorium.
Congratulations to the following
students:
7th and 8th Grade Band: Jonathan
Murray (trumpet), Ashley Middleton
(trombone), Amanda Fulton (tuba).
9th and 10th Grade Band: Claire
Jarvis (clarinet), Danae Drake (bass clarinet),
Jenna Smithson (French horn), Welbie
Houghton (French horn), Zach Martinez
(baritone), Cameron Underwood (tuba).
11th and 12th Grade Band: Emily
Tan (flute), Justin Middleton (baritone),
Andrew Tew (tuba).
Select Band Students Chosen for All-County Performances
The Florida Music Educators
Association annual convention was held
in January, and several LCS students had
the opportunity to perform with some of
the best student-musicians in the state of
Florida. These individuals were required to
audition earlier in the fall.
Congratulations to the following
students:
Middle School Treble Chorus: Emily
Carl, Rebekah Firmin and Amanda Fulton.
Middle School Mixed Chorus:
Christopher Greene and Robert Verner.
High School Women’s Chorus:
Mickelyn Graves.
High School Concert Chorus:
Whitney Andersen, Johnny Boatwright,
Steven Firmin and Casey Jones.
Middle School Honors Band:
Jonathan Murray (trumpet).
Small Schools Honors Band:
Claire Jarvis (clarinet) and Justin
Middleton (baritone).
Six members of the LCS
music department faculty
attended the convention which
was held in Tampa. Attendees
e njoyed workshops, rehearsals
and concerts related to their
individual disciplines.
Student Musicians Perform at Annual FMEA Convention
LCS fifth graders Brandon Kaye and Anna Lanzino were two of
130 Polk County students who received a 2009 Award of Distinction
for the Kids Tag Art competition sponsored by the Polk County Tax
Collector’s office. Their winning tag art is on sale for $15 at
www.polktaxes.com, with all of the proceeds going toward c lassroom
art supplies. The winning students were recognized at a special
reception held on February 20, 2010, at the Polk Museum of Art.
Fifth grader Carter Roth was awarded the “Fred Wiechmann
Christian Tag Award” by Mrs. Bonnie Mosley, elementary art teacher,
for creating his tag with a biblical theme.
Carter Roth (left), Brandon Kaye (center) and Anna Lanzino (right) were honored for their
car tag designs. They are pictured here with Mr. Fred Wiechmann and Mrs. Bonnie Mosley.
Fifth Graders Win Tag Art Competition
1414
While most students were getting ready
for Christmas, several LCS students
joined elementary Principal Fred
Wiechmann for two nature walks over
the Christmas break. These two hikes –
to the Circle B Bar Reserve and the
Lakeland Highlands Scrub Preserve –
educated students on some of Polk
County’s natural wonders. The students
had the opportunity to see the homes
of butterflies and birds, as well as rare
plant species and wildlife such as gopher
tortoises, foxes, ospreys, bald eagles,
alligators and Florida Scrub Jays.
Middle School Students Compete in Annual Solar Day
Every year Lakeland Christian School middle school students have the
opportunity to learn about one of our most important renewable resources: the sun.
Solar energy can be used to heat water and swimming pools, dry clothes, power
small appliances and, as LCS students learn, power cars. Since 1999, the solar car
sprint race has been one of the favorite activities of middle schoolers, and this year
was no different.
Lakeland Electric agreed to partner with LCS to provide financial support to the
students to reduce the cost of the solar car kits, and they also provide the awards.
Mr. Hugh Patterson, middle school science teacher, oversees the solar car activities.
Students have the opportunity to compete in various solar day competitions,
including a solar car sprint race, a solar car design contest, a poster art contest
and an essay contest. Congratulations to the following students for earning
Solar Day awards:
Wiechmann Takes Kids on Christmas Nature HikesLCS Third Grader Crowned Strawberry Festival Royalty
Middle schoolers proudly display their solar cars
during the annual Solar Day competition.
Solar Car Sprint Race1st place – Bailee Mathers and Olivia Wiles
(7.95 seconds)
2nd place – Cody Averitt and Caleb McDonald
(9.19 seconds)
3rd place – Sydnea Coleman and Alyssa Dumke
(9.37 seconds)
4th place – Jena Carr and Morgan Harper
5th place – Josh Boyd and Jake Molony
6th place – Jamie Aspinwall and Luke Imig
Solar Car Design Contest1st place – Will Franklin and Katherine Lopez
2nd place – Beth Mora and Meredith Munson
3rd place – Sarah Kettelkamp and Katie Owen
4th place – Emily Carl and Ashlyn Wells
Solar Energy Poster Art1st place – Kaylee Miles
2nd place – Sam Moseley
3rd place – Amy Robb
4th place – Conner Sutton
Solar Energy Essay Contest1st place – Jonathan Murray
2nd place – Rebekah Firmin
3rd place – Bryce Schiebel, Nick Strazzulla
Honorable Mention – Carter Overholt
15
Close to 600 grandparents and special grand-friends
came from across town and around the country to visit their
grandchildren for the fourth annual Grandparent’s Day
celebration. Lakeland Christian welcomed these guests on a
beautiful November morning.
The event began with a special program in the cafeteria,
where a choir of kindergarten students entertained the
Elementary Hosts Fourth Annual Grandparent’s Day
grandparents. School parents Joe and Becky Aldridge then performed
a comedy puppet routine. Headmaster Dr. Mike Sligh and Director of
Advancement Steve Wilson welcomed the guests and shared about
Lakeland Christian.
After the program, the grandparents and friends had the
opportunity to visit their grandchildren’s classrooms. The kids were
able to introduce their teachers and friends, show off their classroom,
work on special projects and perform special songs and activities for
their grandparents.
This annual event is a favorite among LCS students in grades
K4-5. This year’s Grandparent and Grand-friend’s Day is tentatively
scheduled for November 12, 2010.
Lakeland Christian School third grader Faith Nagy was crowned the Florida Strawberry Festival Duchess
(ages 7-9) for 2010. Chosen based on personality, overall appearance, natural beauty and smile, Faith
represented the festival at the Youth Parade and the Grand Feature Parade. In addition to her time at the
Strawberry Festival, Faith will continue to make public appearances throughout the year.
LCS Third Grader Crowned Strawberry Festival Royalty
Fifth Graders Get Hands-On with the Stock Market
Who better to learn about the stock market from than the President and CEO of
Allen & Company, Florida’s oldest investment firm? Lakeland Christian fifth
graders had the opportunity to do just that when Mr. Keith Albritton, school parent
and financial planner, visited them to talk about the stock market and lead some
hands-on activities to help them better understand financial investments.
15
Former Olympian Speaks to LCS StudentsFormer Olympic runner, world record holder and Congressman Jim Ryun traveled to Lakeland this past fall to speak to Lakeland
Christian students and to be on hand at the Without Walls Cross Country Invitational.
In 1964, Ryun became the first high school runner to run a mile is less than four minutes when he ran a 3:59.0 mile. He later went
on to set the world record with a 3:51.3 mile and then later a 3:51.1. Ryun competed in the Olympics in 1964 and 1968, winning a silver
medal in the 1,500-meter race in Mexico City in 1968.
In 1966, Ryun was named the Sports
Illustrated Sportsman of the Year, which is
considered one of the highest recognitions for
any amateur or professional athlete.
Ryun served as a businessman and
motivational speaker before being elected to
represent Kansas in the United States House of
Representatives.
On a Friday afternoon, he spoke to the
students about his experiences in running and
in competition. On Saturday morning, Ryun
attended a 5K race held in his honor and the
cross-country meet.
Jim Ryun (center) spent some time encouraging the
LCS cross-country teams during his visit in October.
Fourth Grade Candy Cane Sales Benefit Parker StreetThe fourth grade classes held their annual Christmas candy
cane sales this past holiday season. The students presented a
check to Parker Street Ministries for $2,184.08.
Students Donate 230 Shoeboxes for OCC Lakeland Christian School students
donated 230 shoeboxes of gifts and toys for this
year’s Operation Christmas Child program. Mr.
David Trivette, who served as an international
representative for Franklin Graham, spoke in
elementary chapels about the program and shared his
experiences passing out shoeboxes in Kosovo.
Special thanks to Kay Henry for heading up the LCS
program, to Karla Mosher for checking and preparing all of the
shoeboxes, to Nancy
Snyder for buying
toothpaste and
toothbrushes for some
of the boxes, and to
Birk and Teresa
Mullinax for helping to
transport boxes to the
drop-off location.
LCS Students Give Generously During Holiday SeasonStudents Hold Food Drive for Lighthouse
Elementary students held their annual Thanksgiving food
drive for Lakeland’s Lighthouse Ministries. Students brought in
canned food and other nonperishable food items so that needy
families would be able to celebrate with a Thanksgiving dinner.
Middle School Bible Students Give to At-Risk TeensStudents in Mrs. Teri Evans’ Bible classes collected Christmas
gifts for at-risk teens involved in the Youth for Christ program.
Mr. Scott Hirdes, a school parent and Youth for Christ leader,
was able to distribute these gifts to kids before Christmas.
We love to hear from you. News about you is important to us and to your former classmates. Please e-mail Claudia Powell at [email protected]. Planning your class reunion? Contact Director of Community Relations Julie Rice, at 863-688-2771, ext. 236, and she will arrange for use of facilities and will offer other helpful tips.
Alumni news2 0 0 0 s
Brittany Marzola (’08) and Nick Bridges will be
married on June 11, 2010. Nick is a graduate of Auburn
University and is working as a civil engineer in Plant
City. The couple will reside in Lakeland.
Ryan Crosby (’06) is currently employed with
E & A Cleaning and is engaged to Heather Pfrommer
from Strasburg, PA. A May 2010 wedding is planned.
Erik Thomas (’06) recently graduated from the
University of South Florida. He received a B.A. in History.
Josh (’03) and Cory Powell (’04) Cress, along with
big sisters Kylee (5) and Harlee (3), welcomed the arrival
of Joshua “Maverick” born on December 22, 2009. He
weighed 7 lbs. and 10 oz. Josh is employed with Cress
Construction, and Cory is a stay-at-home mom.
Keith Knowlton (’04) and his wife, Rachel – both
graduates of Furman University – are teaching English
to freshman and sophomore university students in
northeastern China. They will complete their first year of
teaching in July 2010.
Joshua Vander Maten (’04) moved from Nashville,
Tennessee, to Dallas, Texas, and is working part-time
at a church called Fellowship Dallas and traveling with
Women of Faith. In August, Josh plans to attend Christ
for the Nations, a school that will help him pursue the
calling God has placed on his life as a worship pastor.
Daniel Wilson (‘02) and Jessica Gandy will be
married on May 8, 2010 in Birmingham, Alabama.
Daniel is the assistant golf course superintendent at
St. Ives Country Club in Atlanta, Georgia.
Andrew Knowlton (’02) graduated from Samford
University’s Cumberland School of Law in Birmingham,
Alabama, in May 2009. He has since passed the
Alabama bar exam and is employed by the law firm of
Gaines, Wolter & Kinney, P.C. in Birmingham. Andrew
and his wife, May, welcomed their first child, a baby girl
named Clair McClain, on January 25, 2010. She weighed
8 lbs., 1 oz. and was 21 inches long.
Emily Lipham Greene (’01) and her husband,
Josh, are the proud parents of Carson McKinley “Mack”
Greene, born September 22, 2009 and weighing 6 lbs.
and 14 oz.
Nathan Patterson (’00) and Lauren Knowlton
(’06) were married at Trinity Presbyterian Church in
Lakeland on June 5, 2009. They live in Lakeland,
where Nathan is employed by Northwestern Mutual
Financial Network.
Brittany Marzola
Carson McKinley “Mack” Greene
Josh and Cory Powell
Kemper Isaac Streets
Ainsley Victoria Overholt
Lauren Chastain Presson
Clair McClain Knowlton
1 9 9 0 s
Lauren Chastain Presson (’98) and her husband,
Scott, welcomed their new son into the world on October 5,
2009. Hunter Gaines was born at Holy Cross Hospital in Ft.
Lauderdale and weighed 8 lbs. and 9 oz. Lauren, Scott and
Hunter live in Pompano Beach, FL, where Scott is a Civil
Engineer for the Florida Department of Transportation, and
Lauren is a fundraiser and event planner at United Way of
Broward County.
Jason Streets (’98) and his wife, DaNae, are the proud
parents of Kemper Isaac born on January 31, 2009. They
currently reside in Lakeland where Jason is working towards
his residential appraiser license, coaching LCS girls’ varsity
soccer and is an assistant girls’ soccer coach at Florida
Southern. DaNae is employed at Wasilewski Court Reporting.
Erica Suares (’98) left The Heritage Foundation (where
she has been working in Senate Relations) and has taken a
new position working for Senator Jim DeMint, a Republican
from South Carolina. Erica will be advising him on
education policy issues as well as other social policy issues.
Anthony Tucker (’95) is the Director of Career Services
at Covenant College in Lookout Mountain, GA. Anthony
and his wife, Rachel, along with their five boys, Bode,
Myers, Davis, Lyndon and Urban, are members of Lookout
Mountain Presbyterian Church.
Jennifer Oncu Overholt (’90) and Keith Overholt
(LCS middle school principal) celebrate the birth of Ainsley
Victoria born on November 21, 2009. Ainsley weighed
8 lbs., 8 oz. and was 20 inches long. She joins Carter (8th
grade), Olivia (6th grade), Reese (4th grade), Jackson (K5)
and Ellie (4 years). Her middle name honors the memory
of Vicky Dawson.
1 9 7 0 s
Denise Kelso Loock (’75) has recently retired from
teaching English in the high school and college level and is
currently working part-time at her church and full-time as a
freelance writer. Another Christian writer and Denise have
launched a devotional Web site: www.digdeeperdevotions.
com. Please check it out and send her some feedback at
17
18
Dream Spring Break destination
What winter Olympics sport
would you like to participate in?
White milk or chocolate milk?
Favorite Easter candy
Guess: How many strawberries are
consumed each year at the Strawberry
Festival?
What charitable cause would you give to if you had unlimited funds?
Whitney TurbevilleSenior
Luke Averitt4th Grader
Steve WilsonDirector of Advancement
Alice MiddletonSecondary Faculty
Drew CleghornJunior
Anna Maria Island with my friends Snowboarding White Peeps A million Autism awareness
Jamaica Cross-country skiing
Chocolate Peeps 18,123.5 Breast cancer
research
Austria Alpine skiing Chocolate Starburst jelly beans
3 million Samaritan’s Purse
Anna Maria Island Speed skating White Chocolate bunny A million Lighthouse Ministries
British Isles Half pipe
Chocolate Chocolate eggs Millions
LCS, of course!
YOURTURN!
Alumni: Updating Your Info is Easier than Ever
Attention LCS alumni: updating your information is now easier
than ever! All you have to do is visit www.lcsonline.org/alumni/form.asp
and you can update your address, phone number, e-mail address
and family information. You can also send a write-up to appear in future
issues of The Viking. When you click “Submit,” the information that you
provide is automatically sent to Mrs. Claudia Powell, the administrative
assistant in the Headmaster and Advancement Offices. If you would
like to include a photo for The Viking, please e-mail it to Mrs. Powell at
[email protected]. Keeping your information current helps your
former classmates contact you when reunion time rolls around, as well
as ensuring that your Viking arrives at the correct address!
Note to Alumni Parents:
If your former student no longer lives in your home but still receives
mail from Lakeland Christian at your address, please e-mail Claudia
Powell at [email protected] to update their alumni information.
The Lakeland Christian
School faculty and staff
would like to express a
heartfelt thanks to our
families for the generous
Christmas love offering.
This annual tradition is
deeply appreciated.
A Special
Thanks
19
Lakeland Christian School
grandparent Ron Copeland always
wanted to write a book, and drawing
on his experience as a Detroit police
officer, his crime thriller The Caves of
Kazoo, was published in 2009. This
fictional novel weaves suspense and
family values throughout the book,
geared for an older adolescent reader.
The book, published by Tate
Publishing, is available on various
Web sites including Amazon, Borders,
Books A Million and Barnes & Noble.
Ron has been a part of Lakeland Christian School for two decades
– as the father of alum and current assistant high school principal
Darren Copeland, as the husband of cafeteria director Mary Copeland,
as the grandparent of Brock and Brady Copeland and as a baseball and
basketball coach.
If you would like to contact Ron, you can e-mail him at
Grandparent, Former Coach Publishes Book
The Lakeland Christian School
Science Department has recently
been awarded two grants to go
toward the purchase of new science
equipment. From the American
Institute of Chemical Engineers,
LCS was awarded $828 toward the
purchase of a Moticam microscopy
camera that will allow science
teachers to project microscopy
images on the SMART Boards.
LCS also received a $2400 grant
from the Southwest Florida Water
Management District (SWFWMD).
This money will be used for water
resource education units for grades
K4, 3, 5, 7 and 9 and will purchase
27 Brock field microscopes,
eyepieces and slides.
Lakeland Christian Awarded Two Science Grants
Did you know
that you can donate
to Lakeland Christian
School through your
company’s payroll
deduction program?
If you would like to
know how, please
contact the LCS
Advancement Office
at 863-688-2771.
Give to LCS Through Payroll Deduction
The faculty and staff of the LCS elementary school would like to thank
families who send in Box Tops for Education and Campbell’s soup labels. LCS gets
10 cents for each box top, and in December, LCS received a check for $627.90 for
the box tops that were collected. This money will go toward the elementary
reading curriculum.
More than 41,000 soup labels were collected, and the money earned from this
program was enough to purchase playground equipment for all three elementary
playgrounds. This equipment included kickballs, footballs, basketballs, soccer balls,
cups and catch balls, plastic bats and jump ropes.
Box Tops, Soup Labels Benefit LCS
20
On behalf of the students we serve, a heartfelt thanks to the following generous persons and companies who have partnered
with LCS by providing a gift to the ministry. We were blessed by:
Gifts T O L A K E L A N D C H R I S T I A N S C H O O L
Dr. and Mrs. Phillip AbbottMr. and Mrs. Tom AbramsonDr. and Mrs. Ruben AdrianoMr. and Mrs. Kale AlbrittonMr. and Mrs. Keith AlbrittonMr. and Mrs. John AllenMr. and Mrs. Ira AndersonMr. and Mrs. Dave AplinDr. and Mrs. Glen BardenMr. and Mrs. Harold BarkerMr. and Mrs. Todd BarrowMr. and Mrs. Howard BaylessMr. and Mrs. Thomas BaylessMr. and Mrs. Donald BellarMr. and Mrs. Dennis BerryMr. and Mrs. Ralph BlalockMr. and Mrs. Jim BoatwrightMrs. Carole BolterMr. and Mrs. Vasco BoninoMr. and Mrs. Don BradleyMr. Kenneth BreathittMr. and Mrs. Anthony BrooksMs. Cindy BrooksMr. and Mrs. Glenn BrownMr. and Mrs. Eric BurtonMr. and Mrs. Don BusingMr. and Mrs. Frank CampanoMr. and Mrs. Sal Campisi, Jr.Dr. and Dr. Richard CardosiMr. and Mrs. Brian CarrollMr. Gerald CasellaMr. and Mrs. Bob CattariusMr. and Mrs. Bill ChamberlinMr. and Mrs. Todd ChristianClark/Nikdel/Powell, Inc.Mr. and Mrs. Bob CleghornMr. and Mrs. Daniel Cline, Sr.Mr. and Mrs. Greg ColemanMr. and Mrs. Thomas CrawfordMr. and Mrs. Johnnie Curls, Jr.Mrs. Jackie DavisDr. and Mrs. James DavisDr. and Mrs. Jeffery DavisMrs. Lil DavisMr. and Mrs. Daniel DeLangeMr. and Mrs. Ron DenneyMr. and Mrs. Joseph DiCesareDr. and Mrs. Thomas
DiGeronimoMr. and Mrs. Charles DolphMr. and Mrs. John DouglassMr. and Mrs. Chad DumkeMr. and Mrs. Kurt DunbarMr. and Mrs. Glen DuncanMiss Susan EllisMr. and Mrs. Perry EvansRev. and Mrs. Roger EvansMr. and Mrs. Pat FaganMr. and Mrs. Ben FalkMr. and Mrs. David FalkMr. and Mrs. Lee Finley, IIMrs. Nancy Fisher
Mr. and Mrs. Bob ForlawMr. and Mrs. Frank FosterMs. Brenda FriedmanMr. and Mrs. Avon FrierMr. and Mrs. Tim FrostMr. and Mrs. Warren FullerMr. and Mrs. Charles FultonMrs. Clara FultonMr. and Mrs. Louis Garrard, VMr. and Mrs. Eric GermanyMr. and Mrs. Bud GibsonMr. Thomas GivanMr. and Mrs. Benjamin GomezMr. and Mrs. Clint GordonMr. and Mrs. Michael GravesDr. and Mrs. Graham GreeneMr. and Mrs. Ron Grigsby, Sr.Dr. and Mrs. Jerry HaagMs. Patsy HamMr. and Mrs. Shannon HannumMr. and Mrs. Rob Harper, IVMr. and Mrs. Jack Harrell, Jr.Mrs. Norma HarrellMs. Shelley HarrisMs. Barbara HartMr. and Mrs. Donald HeacoxMr. and Mrs. Rex HenryMr. and Mrs. G. B. HillMr. and Mrs. Keith HodgeMr. and Mrs. Louis HolmesMrs. Linda HoneycuttMr. and Mrs. Boyce HorneMrs. Linda HoughtonMr. and Mrs. Edmund HuckeryRev. and Mrs. Gary HullMr. and Mrs. David HurdMr. Craig IrvinMrs. Phyllis JacobsMr. and Mrs. Wayne JenkinsMrs. Mimi JenkoMr. and Mrs. Daryl JohnsonMr. and Mrs. Dean JohnsonMr. and Mrs. Kenneth JohnsonMr. and Mrs. Stephen JonesDr. and Mrs. Derek KeenanMs. Tracy KelleyMr. and Mrs. Robert KettelkampMr. and Mrs. Mark KirbyMr. and Mrs. Stanley KirbyMr. and Mrs. Curt KitchensMr. and Mrs. Andrew KnowltonMr. Erwin KnowltonMr. and Mrs. Kevin KnowltonMr. and Mrs. Ray KriegbaumMr. and Mrs. Allen LaddMr. and Mrs. Edward Laderer, Jr.Lakeland Creamery, Inc. –
Coldstone CreameryMr. and Mrs. Randy Larson
Rev. and Mrs. Michael LathamMr. and Mrs. Robert LatimerMr. and Mrs. Thomas LehnerMr. and Mrs. Carl LewisMrs. Daisy LibbertMr. and Mrs. Fred LopezMr. and Mrs. Robert MaddenMr. and Mrs. Stephen MaddenMr. and Mrs. George MaguireMr. and Mrs. B. J. MasonMr. and Mrs. Richard MasonMr. and Mrs. Larry MaxwellMr. and Mrs. Todd MaxwellMr. and Mrs. Mike McCormickMr. and Mrs. Michael McKenneyMr. and Mrs. Tom McLaughlinMr. and Mrs. Timothy MerchantMIDFLORIDA Credit UnionMr. and Mrs. Jeff MilesMs. Stacy MilesMr. and Mrs. Corey MillerMr. and Mrs. David MillerMr. and Mrs. Doug MillerMrs. Norma MooreMr. and Mrs. Edward Mora, Jr.Mr. and Mrs. Paul MorganMr. and Mrs. Terry MorrowMr. and Mrs. Michael MosleyMr. and Mrs. Eric MowrerMr. and Mrs. Birk MullinaxDr. and Mrs. Mark MunsonMrs. Bennie Jo MurrayMr. and Mrs. Bradley MurrayMr. and Mrs. Mike Musick, Sr.Mr. and Mrs. Oz MutzMr. and Mrs. Bob MyhrerMr. and Mrs. Alan NaughtonMr. and Mrs. Dean NederveldMr. and Mrs. Steve NicholsMr. and Mrs. Chris O’ByrneMr. and Mrs. William O’HarrowMiss Ellen OncuMrs. Judy OncuOutsource Management SolutionsMr. and Mrs. Kevin OxendineMr. and Mrs. Lee PattesonMr. and Mrs. Tom PetcoffMr. and Mrs. Scott PetroMr. and Mrs. Ray PhillipsMr. and Mrs. Brian PhilpotMr. and Mrs. Douglas PikeMrs. Marlene PittsMr. and Mrs. Robert Powell, Jr.Mr. and Mrs. James PowersMr. and Mrs. John PrahlRegister Construction & EngineeringDr. and Mrs. Alan RichMr. and Mrs. Ron RiggsMr. and Mrs. James Roberson
Mr. and Mrs. Tom RogersMr. and Mrs. Marshall RoweMr. and Mrs. Michael RubioMr. and Mrs. Dale RussellMr. and Mrs. Jon RussellMr. and Mrs. Jim RyalMr. and Mrs. John SabatMr. and Mrs. John SantosuossoMr. and Mrs. Dean SaundersMr. and Mrs. Bill SchichtelMr. Philip SebringMr. John ShannonMr. and Mrs. Glenn ShelbyMr. and Mrs. Wayne ShimkoMr. and Mrs. David SimpsonMr. and Mrs. Ronald SinglerDr. and Mrs. Mike SlighDr. and Mrs. Stephen SlighMr. and Mrs. Stephen SloanMr. and Mrs. Dwight SmithMr. and Mrs. Harold SnyderMiss Nancy SnyderMr. and Dr. Jason SpinksMr. and Mrs. Geoff StablerMr. and Mrs. Michael StacyMr. and Mrs. Tom StandiferMr. and Mrs. Robert StanzRev. and Mrs. Robert StubblefieldMr. and Mrs. Michael SuttonMr. and Mrs. John SzydlowskiDr. and Mrs. Bradley TanDr. and Mrs. James TewThe NCT Group CPA’s, L.L.P.Mr. and Mrs. William Thomas, Jr.Mr. and Mrs. Stephen ThorntonMr. and Mrs. Cliff ThrelkeldMr. and Mrs. Marcus TideyMr. and Mrs. Eric TorresMrs. Evelyn TowlerDr. and Mrs. John TuckerMr. and Mrs. Jim TurlingtonMr. Dean TurnerUnited Way of Tri-County, Inc.United Women’s Club of Lakeland, Inc.Dr. and Mrs. Peter UrbanMr. and Mrs. Conrad VarnumMr. and Mrs. Kenny VelezMr. and Mrs. James VerplanckVisionworks of Central FloridaMs. Marne VorndranMr. and Mrs. Ward Wall, Jr.Mr. Steven WardWatson Clinic, LLP/Dr. Richard CardosiMr. Kenneth WelshMr. and Mrs. David WickenkampMr. and Mrs. Fred WiechmannMr. and Mrs. Barry WilderMr. and Mrs. Tom WilliamsMr. and Mrs. Alvin Wilson, Jr.Mr. and Mrs. Steve WilsonRev. and Mrs. William WynnMr. and Mrs. Lindsey Yates
21
Living Memorials
In memory of: Ashley Turlington Given by: Mrs. Betty Bagbey Ms. Sue Crosby Mr. and Mrs. John Douglass Mrs. Sylvia Etchison Pastor and Mrs. Jerry
Goodell Reverend and Mrs. Rick
Hinger Mr. and Mrs. Dean Johnson Mr. and Mrs. Scott Laing Lanier Upshaw, Inc. Ms. Sandra Parks Mr. and Mrs. Glenn Shelby Mr. and Mrs. Valentino Tocci Mrs. Dorothy Woodworth
In memory of: Bradley Langston Given by: Mr. and Mrs. John Douglass Mr. and Mrs. John Prahl Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Miles
In memory of: Mr. David W. Privett Given by: Mrs. Ann Matthews Mrs. Robert Hightower
In memory of: Mr. Ed Maddox Given by: Mr. and Mrs. Michael Carter Mr. Thomas Conger Mr. Jack Payne
In memory of: Mr. Burl Wilson, Sr. Given by: Mr. and Mrs. Joe Aldridge Mr. and Mrs. Tom Bayless Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Blalock Clark/Nikdel/Powell, Inc. – Mrs. Anne Powell Mrs. Kathleen Davis Ms. Arlena Dominick Mr. and Mrs. John Douglass Mr. and Mrs. Ward Edwards Mr. and Mrs. James Hahn Mr. and Mrs. Rob Harper, IV Mr. and Mrs. Jack Harrell, Jr. Mrs. Robert Hightower Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Knowlton Mrs. Ann Matthews Mr. and Mrs. E. V. McClurg Mr. and Mrs. Mike McCormick Mr. and Mrs. Robert Powell, Jr. Register Construction & Engineering –
Mr. Buddy Register Mr. and Mrs. Bill Schichtel Mr. and Mrs. Norman Slakman Dr. and Mrs. Mike Sligh Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Thornton The Timothy Group – Mr. Pat McLaughlin Ms. Koleen Whaley Ms. Polly Whaley Dr. and Mrs. Robert Williams
It is a joy to receive gifts that are sent to acknowledge a loved one. We are grateful for the gifts received from the following:
In memory of: Cooper Naughton Given by: Mr. and Mrs. Larry Naughton
In memory of: Mrs. Tara Shelby Given by: Mr. Donald Shelby Mr. and Mrs. Leon Ward
In memory of: Stephen Shelby Given by: Mr. Donald Shelby
In memory of: Mrs. Frances Gibson Given by: Mrs. Jean Widdowson
In memory of: Mr. Billy Kirkland Given by: Chestnut Grove
Baptist Church
In memory of: Mr. Bill Thornton Given by: Dr. and Mrs. Mike Sligh Mr. and Mrs. Steve Wilson
In memory of: Mr. Rocky Rachell Given by: Mrs. Grace Thompson
In memory of: Mrs. Reba Schmidt Given by: Mrs. Robert Hightower
The Lakeland Christian Library staff appreciates the generosity of those who have provided recent book donations. The library counts on the regular contributions of school families to expand their collection for students.
Library Donations
Mr. and Mrs. Lennie BarrandMr. and Mrs. Glen Duncan Mr. Lee Harrison Mr. and Mrs. Terry McNutt Mr. and Mrs. Bill MutzMr. and Mrs. Andy NormanMr. and Mrs. Jerry PratherMr. and Mrs. Jim RyunMr. and Mrs. Fred SalmonMrs. Shelly Schaedel Mr. and Mrs. Dwight SmithMr. and Mrs. John Szydlowski Mr. and Mrs. James WilliamsMidFlorida School Credit Union
Lakeland Christian School is the beneficiary of many donated goods and services provided by school families and other friends. These gifts enable higher levels of excellence campus-wide.
LCS Appreciates
Marsha Gordon – Donation of leadership books for administrative staffDon Folk – Coordinating the concessions at the Florida Bandmasters Association Solo and Ensemble FestivalSandy Gibson and Cathy Hamilton – For volunteering in Mrs. Betty Duncan’s fourth grade classroomKevin Wasilewski and David Sligh – For their assistance with the LCS soccer programsMimi Jenko – For the donation of office supplies and medical suppliesChasity Branham – For donating her time each week to do Math Superstars with students in Mrs. Debbie Stump’s third grade classroomCarla Gray – For serving as the classroom photographer for Mrs. Debbie Stump’s third grade classFloy Graves, Steve Jones, Kathy Fulton, Ana Liz Greene, Mila Adriano, Lesslie Kettelkamp, Sabra Myers and Betty Firmin – For serving as chaperones for Choir All-State and MPA in January and February
1111 Forest Park Street • Lakeland, Florida 33803 • 863-688-2771 • www.lcsonline.orgNon-Profit Org.
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The Viking is published quarterly by Lakeland Christian School, 1111 Forest Park St., Lakeland, Florida 33803
MARCH 22-26 Creation Care Week
M A R K Y O U R C A L E N D A R
MARCH 26 End of Third Quarter
MARCH 29-APRIL 2 Spring Break
APRIL 9 Report Cards Issued
Mrs. Jennifer Canady, a middle school
science teacher at Lakeland Christian School,
was awarded the “Preserving Polk” Award by
the Keep Polk County Beautiful organization
for her commitment to educating young
people about the environment. Canady
teaches her students to be good stewards of
the environment through hands-on projects
such as the Discovery Channel’s “Change Your
World Challenge.” This challenge encourages
students to find ways to have a positive impact
on their community. This year’s classes have
implemented a very successful school-wide
bottle and paper recycling program.
Lakeland Christian Teacher Earns ‘Preserving Polk’ Award
Mrs. Jennifer Canady, surrounded by her world-changing middle school students, is a deserving award winner.
As part of the Memory Project (www.thememoryproject.org), secondary art
students in Shelley Harris’ class recently painted portraits of orphans in Ethiopia.
According to the Web site, these portraits are given to the children as keepsakes
with the purpose of “providing them a special memory of their youth, to honor
their heritage and identity and to help them build a positive self-image.”
Art Students Create Portraits for Children in Ethiopia
Left: Hayat Mohammod proudly displays her photo.
Right: Estifanos Hailu is another Ethiopian orphan who received his portrait by an LCS art student.
