TONICA ALUMNI

On Sept. 12, Tonica High School alumni members and guests gathered at the La Salle VFW for the annual banquet. The event was hosted by the Class of 1969, which was celebrating its 40th class reunion. One hundred fifty-two people attended.

Gary Ford welcomed everyone and conducted the business meeting. Christy Strack Huffman gave the invocation and was responsible for the seretary"s report. Lora Dart Imel gave the treasurer"s report and conducted roll call. This was one of the best-attended alumni meeting.

Mabel Vey Siemers Brown was the first to respond to roll call, celebrating her 75th year as a graduate of Tonica High School. In attendance with Brown was her daughter, Alice Arkels (class of 1962), her grandson, Dan Arkels (class of 1980), granddaughter, Sheri Arkels O"Brien (class of 1984) and granddaughter, Tami Arkels Wiesbrock (class of 1990).

Significant anniversaries were noted for the Class of 1959 with 13 members, the Class of 1964 with nine members, the Class of 1969 with 15 members and the Class of 1984 with one member in attendance. There were 105 Tonica High School alumnus responding to roll call.

A moment of silence was noted for all deceased members. Honorary members attending were Ken Pyszka, James Loebach and Dorothy Clark. Another honorary member who was not able to attend was Lester Earles. Deceased honorary members are Alex Clark, Ester Earles, Herb Hungerford, Elizabeth Siemers, Dorothy Baker and George and Francis Irvine.

Christy Strack Huffman presented a special honorary alumni membership to retired superintendent of Tonica Grade School, Larry Bequeaith. He was presented with an engraved clock.

Also attending were special guests, Ted Bayler, a former THS teacher, and his wife, Sharin. Honorary guests were given centerpieces, which Linda Gray Struna provided. Others receiving centerpieces were: Mabel Vey Brown-first to respond to roll call, Tami Arkels Wiesbrock-youngest class representative, LaVerne Foote-first alumnus to send in a reservation, and Ruth McCollem Jackson-traveled the furthest from California.

Mary Ellen Goodbred addressed the group announcing that each person in attendance had received a brochure about the Tonica Grade School Foundation, and any donation would be greatly appreciated. She also pointed out trophies she had placed on display were available to take.

Kris Danz Scarpella and Rodney Brady agreed to co-chair next year"s alumni meeting Sept. 11, 2010.

Special acknowledgment was given to Lois Foote who helped develop the booklet given to the Class of 1969. Randy and Sandy Locke were thanked for furnishing the sound system and music. Lowell Beenenga was acknowledged for donating his time to conduct a Tonica High School building tour in the afternoon.

To conclude this year"s alumni committee were introduced and thanked: Lora Dart Immel, chairman, Dorene Foote Giltner, Christy Strack Huffman, Linda Fike Kaszynski, Jerry Kreiser, Ann Kniffin Miller, Linda Gray Struna and Gary Ford.