Fall - Uwpiaa.org

InsideUP BEATUP BEATPresident’s Message ... 2A Reunion Wedding ...... 4Meet a WorldSmartStudent .................. 5In Tribute ..................... 7Memory Book:A Mother’s Love...... 9People on the Move ... 11uwpiaaWebsitewww.uwpiaa.orgEmailICanHelp@uwpiaa.orgupbeat@uwpiaa.orgUWPIAAP.O. Box 987North Platte, Nebraska69103-0987U.S.A.News & Views for Up with People Alumni Fall 2004Building Another Bridgeby Sheila Walsh Dettloff (84D), Macomb, Michigan, USAthey’re not only bridging thegap left by the nearly four-yearabsence of UWP, they arecontinuing to build the road we began.They may be using different materials,but they have the same destination:coming together and demonstratingthat we're not so different after all.They’re a diverse group, this firstWorldSmart Crew. 25 differentcountries. As young as 19, as old as 27.How are they connected to us, thealumni of the first UWP program?One obvious connection isthrough their parents. There are sixchildren of UWP alumni traveling inthis inaugural WorldSmart LeadershipProgram. I talked with some of themas they prepared for their firstCommunity Celebration Event inBroomfield, Colorado. And they allhave different stories about how theybecame involved.“We checked the website faithfullyfor two years, every day,” says TeklaWeiterman, daughter of Maureen(Spigott) Weiterman (79D). Not soLaura Kathryn Trevett Tidwell, whosefather, John Trevett, traveled in Cast B1974. She googled it. “I found 50 pagesof websites that were study abroads forcommunication majors. WS was thefirst one on the page. I remembered mydaddy had traveled with UWP so Iknew I had to do it.” For MinaAgatsuma, daughter of Noritada (Ted)Agatsuma (71A), UWP came to her:“Japanese UWP staff came to myhouse and explained it.”Their reasons for applying to WSdiffered as well, but they all agreedwith Nate Metzler, son of AnneMunizza Gates (66A), when he pointedout, “WS had a very uniquecombination of internship andcommunity service and leadershippracticum and world travel, and noother programs out there that I sawcombined those four components inone program.” Tekla added, “Theacademic credit just made it all themore worthwhile.”Although they’ve barely beguntheir semester, the Crew is pretty clearon what they can and want to achieve.Mina says, “I want to improve mycommunication skills and gain strongleadership skills. Japanese people canread English, but not many people canspeak English.” Alicia Birr, daughter ofFrank Birr (79E), thinks theexperience in cultural diversity will bea primary teacher. “Being in anothersituation outside your home teachesyou flexibility, being on your toes,” shesays. Laura summed up the benefits ofthe cross-cultural education: “I want togain the ability to be more wellroundedand knowledgeable andworldly as far as global issues.”Their personal ambitions areexceeded only by their aspirations tomake a difference in the communitiesthey visit. One of the main themes is toconnect the community impact days tosomething that already exists in thecommunity. While this sounds simple,we all understand the connection infact goes much deeper. “The initialwork is a temporary thing,” explainsAlicia. “They see you have that hope inyour eye and they’re motivated to domore good work. I think the more littlethings we do all over might bring us alltogether.”Describing a visit to an urbanyouth center, Laura says, “Even thoughwe came from completely differentbackgrounds, finding the parallelelements made it reallynatural to make aconnection with a totalstranger.” Tekla adds, “To seethe work we can do whenwe all come together isreally satisfying, and to giveback to the community inthe smallest way isrewarding.”Within each WS Crewthere are three maininternship areas that arethen subdivided. CommunityRelations breaks downinto Operations andExternal Relations, whichincludes working with the media andpeople in the community. EventManagement includes both technicaland creative production. And CulturalService Learning includes organizingcross-cultural experiences both withinthe group and in the communities.Everyone concentrates on one internshipgroup, but is not limited to thatgroup. The internships empower theparticipants. “What’s really uniqueabout the WS program,” says Tekla, “iswe absolutely have a hand in moldingwhat this program is going to be. We’rethe ones making the decisions ... aboutthe types of service we’re going to bedoing and what learning styles suit ourgroup best.”“And that’s where the leadershipaspect comes in,” adds Alicia. “Becauseif we’re in charge of our own destinationshere and if things don’tgo smoothly, we figure out a way tofix them.”Just two weeks into the program,the participants are doing things theynever thought they would do, from thespecial (Mina participated for the firsttime in community service) to themundane (Alicia packed a suitcase forfive months ... and says she’s stillworking on it). And in doing so, theyhave already seen changes inthemselves. “I’ve learned to questionSee Children of Alums on page 5Front, from left: Mina Agatsuma, Laura TrevettTidwell and Alicia Birr. Rear: Nathan Metzler andTelka Weiterman. Not pictured: Josie Shepherd.

B UP EATPresident’s MessageNews and views from UWPIAA President Stuart Shepherd (78E)UWPIAA Board of GovernorsAlumni all over the world arecelebrating the kickoff ofUp with People’s World-Smart Leadership Program. It trulyis a time to celebrate as we anticipatethe arrival of the WorldSmart Crewin our own hometowns.I’ve had the privilege to serve onthe board of directors of UWP forthe past three years and have witnessedthe creation of WorldSmart. Ihope that at some point in the verynear future you will have an opportunityto take part in a WorldSmartproject or community activity. I alsohope you have the opportunity tointeract with the WorldSmart staff.What an amazing group of leaders!From the staff in the UWP offices inDenver, Europe and Japan, to thestaff who travel with the Crew, onecan’t help but be impressed, energizedand proud of these dynamicindividuals. If WorldSmart is nearyour hometown, don’t miss theopportunity to get involved! You’ll beproud you did!Tremendous thanks to theTucson host committee for hostingone of the best reunions in theAssociation’s history. Rajean and Ihave never missed a reunion in 26years, and this one was a blast! Oneof the highlights was the receptionfor all staff members who worked onHelp SupporttheUWPIAAMake a secureon-line donationtoday atuwpiaa.organd click on“MembershipCampaign”the road and in the UWP offices.Over 200 people attended thereception and although there is neverenough time to talk to everyoneyou’d like, it’s always great to be backtogether again.Another special highlight wasCast K for Kids. Over 175 youngpeople, all children of alumni,participated in the program andperformed several songs during thePresident’s Award Session. What ajoy to see children and young peoplestanding together, getting to knoweach other, helping one another withthe words and the choreography. Theamazing part was that they werehaving so much fun, many neverrealized they were talking to a newfriend from Israel, Ireland, Mexico,Denmark, Norway, Canada andmany more countries. Even moreexciting, many of our children arekeeping in touch with their newfriends via email and their cellphones. I’m not sure I want to seenext month’s bill!In July we kicked off theAssociation’s newMembershipprogram, and inthat month alonealumni contributednearlyUS$15,000 (seerelated story onStuart Shepherdpage 9). Thesefunds support the printing of UpBeatand maintaining the uwpiaa.orgwebsite and Online Community.Thank you to all who have given forhelping ensure that the Associationcontinues to grow and be of serviceto all alumni. You’ll find moreinformation on the Membershipcampaign at uwpiaa.org. Pleasecheck it out and consider donating, ifyou haven’t done so already.Keep in touch!Stuart R ShepherdPresidentIn This Issue ...Two exciting events occurred this past summer: the mostsuccessful reunion in terms of attendance the UWPIAA hashosted to date, and the relaunch of UWP with theWorldSmart Leadership Program.In this issue, we proudly highlight a few of the manymemorable events at reunion. You’ll read about some of theperformances and tributes that made this reunion unique.We also have personalized WorldSmart, with anintroduction to a student from Ireland and our cover storyabout all the children of UWP alumni who are participatingin the inaugural session.We hope you’ll also enjoy reading about two alumni whoexperienced another exciting event in their lives this summer— they both became first-time authors.We know there are many more stories about alumni justwaiting to be told, whether exciting, poignant orinspirational. Please contact us at upbeat@uwpiaa.org andtell us about them!— The UpBeat StaffOFFICERSPresidentStuart Shepherd, 78ENorth Platte, Nebraska+1 308-534-2375, homePresident@uwpiaa.orgPresident ElectSary Garcia, 77AParker, Colorado+1 720-851-7026, home+1 720-490-3142, cell+1 303-662-3353, workSecretary@uwpiaa.orgVice PresidentSteve Charlier, 93AAshburn, Virginia+1 703-729-9297, homeVicePresident@uwpiaa.orgSecretarySary Garcia, 77ASee “President Elect”TreasurerAngie Morey 94EEast Boston, Massachusetts+1 617-569-6622, homeTreasurer@uwpiaa.orgCOMMITTEESAdmissionsLiz Cotter Schlax, 90BApex, North Carolina+1 919-303-6989, homeAdmissions@uwpiaa.orgAlumni ProductsJohnny Quintana, 90EAlbuquerque, New Mexico+1 505-235-9616, cellAlumniProducts@uwpiaa.orgCommunicationsSheila Walsh Dettloff, 84DMacomb, Michigan+1 586-431-3530, cellCommunications@uwpiaa.orgInformation SystemsKimmo Vallema, 90DAmstelveen, The Netherlands+31 6 2867 4427, homeIS@uwpiaa.orgMembershipDonna Reed, 76ATucson, Arizona+1 520-631-4638, cellMembership@uwpiaa.orgReunionsMia Hansen, 77DTucson, Arizona+1 520-327-2628, cellReunions@uwpiaa.orgREGIONAL REPSAsia/PacificJin Kawamura, 98CTokyo, Japan+81 47-380 8381Asiarep@uwpiaa.orgEurope/Mid-East/AfricaClaudia Vos, 95C‘s-Hertogenbosch, TheNetherlands+31 73 6122609Europe-Rep@uwpiaa.orgLatin AmericaVacantNorth AmericaJennifer Parkhill, 93EDenver, Colorado+1 303-744-1393, homeNorthAmerica-Rep@uwpiaa.orgERA REPS1996-2000Remco Voogd, 97CApeldoorn, The Netherlands+31 6 20041738, cell1996-2000@uwpiaa.org1991-95Christine Geissler, 91BFrankfurt/Main, Germany+49 69 95632828, home1991-1995@uwpiaa.org1986-90Tania Massa, 90AStoughton, Massachusetts+1 781-582-3884, home+1 617-799-4333, cell1986-1990@uwpiaa.org1981-85Jeff Zadroga, 84CNew York, New York+1 917-452-2768, work1981-1985@uwpiaa.org1976-80Lissy Castillo, 78CMexico City, Mexico+52 55 5604 9202, home1976-1980@uwpiaa.org1971-75Curtis Merrill, 70BAurora, Colorado+1 303-337-9820, home1971-1975@uwpiaa.org1965-70Dave Martin, 68CSunbury, Ohio+1 740-965-4740, work+1 614-975-2814, cell1965-1970@uwpiaa.orgUWP RepJeff HoagDenver, Colorado+1 303-460-7100, workjhoag@upwithpeople.org2 fall ‘o4

No Canes Requiredby Bruce Thomsen (84D), Antioch, Tennessee, USAB UP EATimagine having a crazy idea thatwould reunite musicians whohaven’t played together in twentyyears, others who have never playedtogether, at all, spread across threecountries and two continents, giveit minimal rehearsal, and actuallymake the idea fly. That’s whathappened at the UWPIAA 2004reunion in Tucson for a band calledNo Canes Required.Seeing a private webcast of the1973 era show from the Boston reunionmade me wonder why a fullclub-type band couldn’t be compiledfor the 2004 reunion. After consultingwith Mia Hansen about the feasibility,we went ahead and plannedour show…We set out with what we knew:find musicians and vocalists from the1984 era who would be attendingreunion. The core assembled rapidly:Alex Tarczy (84D) guitar, Rod Hicks(84E) drums, Dennis Corcoran (84D)vocals, and me (84D) on bass. Moremusicians were needed, and I trulybelieve that without the Internet andthe friends we’ve all made over thepast few years, growing the bandwould not have happened. JennBurleton (Sing Out 68) jumped in onguitar, bringing along vocalistDanielle Fleming (Shout Out!).Through other Internet friendships,Jeff Peterson (69B) on trombone andSteve Johnson (72A) on trumpetjoined. Dan Keeley (84E) roundedout the band on keyboards as well as4 fall ‘04From left: Jenn Burleton, Dan Keeley, Danielle Fleming, Dennis Corcoran, Alex Tarczyand Bruce ThomsenMax Hofmann (84D) on vocals for acouple numbers. “I had a blast beingone of the ‘Rocker Chicks.’ I appreciatebeing accepted as one of theband,” said Danielle.Finally we concocted the set list.Practice discs were burned andmailed out a few months prior toreunion. Steve made charts for brass,a daunting task because he was providednothing more than the discsand his own ears.Our only rehearsal would be fourhours at reunion. For me, not onlywas it wonderful to rehearse withpeople I had not played with in 20years, but equally amazing to “meet”and make music with people I’d metover the last year via the Internet.How do you say “nice to meet you”to people you feel are old friendsalready?Jenn Burleton said, “What madeit so amazingly great is that everyonechecked their egos at the door, andplayed together in the truest spirit ofUWP ... it was about the music, theshared experience, the opportunity tolearn about others and then, to shareall of that with an audience.”Dan Keeley echoed that sentiment.“It is rare when you can plansomething months in advance viaemail with people you don’t know,but who have shared a common experience,and expect it to happen.”On July 16, NCR was a welloiledrock-and-roll band. It was anhonor to play for all of the reuniongoers,watch them dance, and morethan just a slight ego boost to showoff for 90 minutes what we couldn’tquite do during our travels in UWP:A Reunion Weddingby Allison (Carsia) Donnelly (99B), New York, New York with JacquieDuncan (99B), Regina, Saskatchewan, Canadaneal Donnelly and I metduring our freshman year ofcollege at Penn State University,as I was preparing for myUWP year. He received all of mymass emails from the road, but wedidn’t start dating until almost a yearafter I returned home. Three and ahalf years later, we decided to getmarried. With that decision cametwo obstacles: He wanted a smallwedding, and I didn’t want to getmarried without my UWP friendsthere to celebrate with us.Despite the fact that he’d seen allthe videos and pictures and heard thenumerous “when I was in UWP...”stories, he had yet to experienceUWP. All he knew was that I had areunion to attend and we had a weddingto plan. From that, the idea wasborn that we could combine it allinto one great trip. It was to be ourwedding and his first UWP experienceEVER! Andwhile I knewwhat we weregetting into, hehad no idea!!!We set a date,July 14, the daybefore reunionstarted. We decidedon a smallceremony anddinner, with justour immediatefamilies, followedDan Keeley on the keyboard and Rod Hicks on drumsby a party with anyone from the castwho could make it. The plans keptrolling from there. We found a maidof honor, none other than my stagingroommate, castmate and truly greatThe wedding party, from left, JacquieDuncan, Allison and Neal Donnelly andSean Donnellythe fact that we really could rock! Itwas more than worth the effortacross two continents to make onenight of magic for all of you.friend Jacquie Duncan; a photographer,who was none other than anothercastmate, Eric Fellman; and aperson to tell me how to plan a weddingin a place I had never seen andwouldn’t see until two days beforethe wedding, Mia Hansen (77D).She was the greatest resource I hadin Tucson, and all of her help, adviceand hard work made the reunion andour wedding unbelievable.After months of planning thisseemingly small event, July finallyrolled around. The day of the weddingcouldn’t have been more perfect,and we had about 40 castmates thereto celebrate with us. Of course, as inevery cast wedding I’ve attend so far,we played “Wadde Hadde DuddeDa,” our cast’s all-time favorite callsong. A few castmates even tookover the dance floor to showcase thechoreography they still remembered.Throughout the reunion, Nealwas adopted intothe cast. Hehelped take groupphotos. He foundout what it waslike to have dinnerwith 13 peoplefrom seven differentcountries. Hediscovered thatthe relationshipsthat form withinUWP have thestrongest foundation.He embraced my UWP family,and by the time it was all over, heasked me, “Do we have to wait fiveyears to do this again?”

so, you’ve been participating in acommunity musical group inDublin, Ireland, for about fouryears with a young person who is a“live wire,” as you would describeher. She’s fun, energetic, and puts asmile on people’s faces when they’rehaving bad days. Oh, and she’s readyfor a travel adventure — to go outand explore the world. Would youhave a suggestion for how she mightbe able to channel that positiveenergy and exploring spirit? Hmmm… sound like anyone you know?One day in February, UWPalumna Elaine Ash (96D), sat downwith her friend Emer McGlade,whom she’d known for four years asdescribed above, and started to tellher about the new UWP program,WorldSmart.Emer thought shehad heard ofUWP before —as that group thatwas singing onthe Late, LateShow aboutfifteen years ago.AlthoughElaine wasn’t sure about all thedetails, she knew that theWorldSmart Leadership Programwas based on experiences similar tothose all of us alumni shared asparticipants in UWP —UP BEATMeet a WorldSmart Student: Emer McGladeby Liz Cotter Schlax (90B), Apex, North CarolinaElaine Ashinternational travel with aninternational group of young people,living with host families, working ineach communityto learn moreabout it and toleave it a bitbetter than it waswhen we arrived.As luckwould have it,the next dayEmer McGladeUWP’s executive vice president andchief operating officer, HiroNishimura (87B), would be speakingto alumni in Dublin about the newprogram. Elaine had a chance to askall of her questions to Hiro, and thenreported back to Emer with somemore details. What Elaine saidsounded intriguing, and Emerchecked out the program online formore information. She learnedenough to know that she wanted tojoin this new program.After Emer submitted herapplication, alumna MaryMcCullough (90B) received the callto interview Emer. They spent twohours together in a Dublin pub, andMary was able to answer questionsand share many experiences withEmer, while learning about her.Emer was 23 years old and justfinishing her degree in creditmanagement. She was attendingHow to Get InvolvedIn their interviews, Emer, Elaine and Mary all stressed the need foralumni involvement and support throughout the application process. Theinformation and support that Emer has received from Mary and Elainewere critical to her getting to the place where she is now. She had theresources around her to make it possible. Mary and Elaine had thesesuggestions for alumni who are interested in helping to continue UWP’smission through the WorldSmart program:• Learn about WorldSmart online at www.upwithpeople.org, so you’llfeel comfortable discussing it with potential students.• Sign up to be an Alumni Ambassador online by registering underthe “Contact Us” section of www.upwithpeople.org and checking the boxthat indicates your interest in the Alumni Ambassadors program.• Consider anyone you meet who would have been interested in theformer UWP program as a possible candidate for the new program. Thecore of the program — its values and experiences — is still the same.• Spend time talking to potential WorldSmart program students,including explaining the program’s value for the money. Make time andeffort to talk to the prospective students’ parents as well, if appropriate.• Contact Liz Cotter Schlax, the Admissions Committee Chair on theUWPIAA BOG with any further questions about admissions(admissions@uwpiaa.org).Many thanks to all UWP and Sing Out alumni who have helped toenroll new students in WorldSmart, and to all of you who will do so in thecoming months and years. With alumni involvement, we can help ensurethat UWP’s mission, spirit and legacy live on.school at night, while working as acredit controller for an engineeringcompany during the day. She hadparticipated in the Greenhills VarietyGroup with Elaine for four years,although she says she’s “not the bestsinger or dancer.”Mary was very impressed withEmer. She said, “I’d love to travelwith Emer. She’s bubbly; hostfamilies will love her. She’s veryproud of being Irish and wantspeople to understand Ireland. Andshe’s hungry to travel and to livewith a multicultural group. She willgain so much from the experience,and will be eager to share Irelandwith the other students. She’s abright spark, and will be a greatrepresentative of our country andof WorldSmart.”Mary recommended Emer foracceptance, and UWP’s Admissionsdepartment agreed. When Emerreceived her acceptance, her ownresearch and conversations withElaine and Mary had alreadyChildren of Alums from page 1stereotypes and evaluate assumptions Imake when getting to know people,”Nate says, “especially those of anotherculture. There is much more to theperson than what they are able toexpress in the English language.Finding a way to explore and sharethat has been a real learningexperience.”Community service, cross-culturalexperiences, hands-on learning ... somuch like the previous UWP program.And yet, WS is new. It’s as differentfrom the former UWP program as the2000 show was from the 1968 show.With everything changing, is there stilla common beat?“I understand [the alumni] want usto keep some of the old,” says Laura,“but I feel like the spirit will still bealive because we have the same drive,the same appreciation; it’s just anew form.”“We have the same goals, the samemission,” says Alicia. “We just want togo with a different way of getting tothat goal.” Mina’s father, showingwhat worked 30 years ago still workstoday, gave her this advice: “Be positive.Be active in activities. Be helpful toother members. Be friendly but alsoaccept others.”The WS Crew is doing their bestconvinced her that this was what shewanted to do. She was sold. But …how was she going to raise thestudent fee of US$14,500?That’s where Elaine’sperseverance and optimism, honedby her experience in UWP, shonethrough. Elaine coached Emerthrough a broad-based solicitation bymail. According to Elaine, “Emerwrote a brilliant letter to about twohundred companies, local electedleaders, and clubs like the Rotaryand Lions Clubs. And Emer appliedfor scholarship funds availablethroughout the country, includingfrom the Bank of Ireland.”On July 31, 2004, EmerMcGlade joined her fellow studentsin Denver, Colorado, for theinaugural WorldSmart LeadershipProgram. We look forward tohearing about Emer’s experience inWorldSmart. UWP plans to postweekly updates and journalsproduced by the students on theirwebsite, upwithpeople.org.to incorporate the performance aspectof the show. “The staff have reallysought out our talents,” says Tekla.“They find things in us that can beused in all different formats.” (SeeCommunity Celebration story onpage 7.)While in Denver, the WS Crewviewed presentations on the history ofUWP. Paul Colwell, Pat Murphy andBill Welsh did a musical presentationfor them. “Pat was sort of rapping,”says Tekla, “and his message was UWPis the message, WorldSmart is the way.It also showed me how much supportwe have from the alumni, that theywant us to succeed as much as we wantto succeed for them.”Officially, all of the WSparticipants are UWP alumni. Askedwhether they’re interested in being partof the UWPIAA, these five secondgenerationstudents were emphatic.“It’ll always be like you have a permanenthome,” says Laura, “someone togo back to who understands someperspective of your life that peoplefrom your hometown can’t quite grasp.”Yes, there are a lot of differences.But even more is the same. We sincerelywelcome all of the WorldSmartparticipants to the Up with PeopleAlumni Association as you completeyour program in December 2004.UpBeat 5

B UP EATAlumni at a Bookstore Near Youby Sheila Walsh Dettloff (84D), Macomb, Michigan, USAthe summer of 2004 was anexciting time for two alumniwho had their first bookspublished. I happened to learn aboutboth of them at reunion in Tucsonand was struck by the similaritiesand differences of their stories — notonly the stories in the books, but thestories of the authors as well.‘A’ Is for AuthorWhen Rajean (Luebs) Shepherd(78E) was growing up in Bay City,Michigan, she never pictured herselfliving on the plains of Nebraska, letalone writing a children’s picturebook about that state.After completing a degree inelementary education at CentralMichigan University, Rajean traveledin the first Cast E of UWP. That wasthe beginning of a career with UWP,culminating in the position ofassistant director of education.Currently a substitute teacher,Rajean says that she has always had alove for children’s picture books.In 1994, before moving fromTucson to Nebraska, Rajean submitteda manuscript for achildren’s book to anArizona publishingcompany, but themanuscript wasrejected. Then, on avacation in Tucson in1998, she noticed achildren’s picture bookvery similar to hermanuscript. Then sherealized it had beenpublished by the samecompany she hadsubmitted her manuscriptto in 1994.“It took me a longtime to get over thisincident,” says Rajean. “But I wouldlike to urge those who have a dreamor goal to not let obstacles — like100 rejection letters — get in yourway. Forge ahead, because dreamscan and really do come true.”A few years ago, while visitingher parents in Michigan, Rajeanhappened across a children’s ABCRajean (Luebs) Shepherdbook titled “M is for Mitten,”published by Sleeping Bear Press inChelsea, Michigan. Inquiringwhether they had published aNebraska book, Rajean was told theyhad received some manuscripts buthad not yet selected one.“I then submitted some rhymingverses about the unique thingsNebraska has to offer,” says Rajean,“and six months later I received wordthat I would be the author of “C isfor Cornhusker.” Rajean says shereceived the exciting news via cellphone as she was driving to Wal-Mart. “When I finished the conversationand stepped into the store,”she says, “I could no longer rememberwhy I had come to the store ...everything was a blur!”Although Rajean grew up inMichigan, her roots take her back toNebraska. Her Grandpa Luebs, towhom the book is dedicated, was ahomesteader in Wood River, Nebraska.The book is also dedicated toher family, and to “Up with Peoplefor the memories of a lifetime.” “Iwanted to be sure,” says Rajean,“that, in some way, I was able tohonor every person in UWP whoaffected my life.”“By writing this book,” Rajeancontinues, “I hope to have been ableto provide a fun, entertaining andeducational way for children (andadults) to learn about the great stateof Nebraska and all the unique andfascinating people, history and sitesit has to offer from A-Z.” The bookis filled with colorful illustrations bySandy Appleoff, who lives on athree-generation farm inNebraska.Asked about herfuture plans as an author,Rajean says, “I may havethe opportunity to writea counting book sinceSleeping Bear Presswould like to eventuallyhave a counting book foreach state. That is what Iplan to work on next.”You can find a synopsis of “C isfor Cornhusker” and purchase thebook at sleepingbearpress.com. It’salso available at Amazon.com andmost major U.S. bookstores. Anyonewishing a signed copy should contactRajean at srshepherd@charter.net.An Idea Becomes “Reality”The 1984 era has a published authorin their midst as well. Dr. KimberlyWeiner (84C) says the idea for astory occurred to her when she saw apicture of Britney Spears with herlittle sister. “From there, the storywrote itself,” says Kimberly. “It wasn’tthat I set out to write a book; thestory found me and it gave me aplatform to address all kinds of issuesI deal with every day as an educationalmedia specialist.”“Not My Reality” helps kidsunderstand that reality TV doesn’thave to be reality for them. Theheroine of the book, Sam, is theyounger sister of the latest popsuperstar. She isn’t interested inbeing on TV or giving autographs.But she gets thrown in even deeperwhen the family is tricked intobecoming the stars of a reality TVshow. Sam is befriended by theshow’s director, who helps herunderstand that her role in thefamily can be much more importantthan simply “sister of the star,”and Sam decides to find a wayto stay true to herself among allthe craziness.Kimberly was teaching thirdgrade in Chicago when her oldmentor from Pepperdine University,where she received her mastersdegree, recruited her for a newdoctorate – an Ed.D. ineducational technology.After graduating,Kimberly settled into theniche of educationalmedia. She says, “Eversince then I’ve been verybusy bridging my twoworlds of media andeducation in a way thatKimberly Weiner (I hope) teaches andentertains.”While pursuing her new career,Kimberly realized that media nolonger just entertains the audience; itinfiltrates their lives and minds.“When we were kids – us latethirties/early forties folk – we had agreat deal of media directed at us,but it was of a very different nature.We were sold products with themessage that it would be cool to befriends with the ‘stars’ of the time.”In spite of the commercial natureof the message, Kimberly explains,we still understood that we wereliving our own lives. “The message isfrighteningly altered today,” she says.“Now the media tells kids it’s notenough to be a fan or a friend of theactor/singer of the moment, youneed to actually be that person, lookexactly the same, and be involved inthat person’s life to a point whereyour own life is utterly irrelevant.”Kimberly intends for this bookto be the first in a three-part series.She has already outlined the secondinstallment and will start writing itin the fall.“My desire to reach kids on alevel that is personal and meaningfulhas led me down different, yetrelated, paths,” says Kimberly, “andI’m very excited about this new one.”You can find more informationor purchase the book at notmyreality.com, or learn more aboutKimberly and her work at edtech21.com. The book is also for sale atAmazon.com. Please email kimberly@notmyreality.com to inquire aboutpurchasing a signed copy.6 Fall ‘o4

In Tributeby Jill C. Johnson (85B), Redondo Beach, CaliforniaB UP EAT“Some people make the world a betterplace simply by being in it.”But then there’s a man who’smuch more: Herbert E. Allen.uWPIAA Reunion 2004 —“Coming Home” set theperfect stage for a tribute tothe man who has inspired and unitedpeople all over the world through hismusic compositions andarrangements for over 40 years.Joined by Jane Allen, children andgrandchildren in the front row, HerbAllen took center stage as Steve,Ralph and Paul Colwell hosted acelebration of Herb Allen’s life andinfluence.UWP alumni were treated to abeautiful 3-tenor arrangement byScott Dickey of Herb’s “Prayer of St.Francis,” performed by Tony Flores(74A), Tim Lane (75A) and TerryAdams (81A). Blanton Belk led usback to the beginning, sharing a verytouching moment attributing muchof UWP’s very existence to Herb.Of course, a tribute does notcome short of hilarious momentsHerbie has had with the manymusicians he has touched along theway. David Grossman (73A), now asenior VP of TV Music forParamount, gave us a glimpse ofHerb’s methods of training over theyears, and how music and life can beviewed in so many “not so obvious”ways. Dave and UWPIAA presidentStu Shepherd (78E) then presentedHerb with the UWPIAA LifetimeAchievement Award.On behalf of Marilyn Bergman,chairman of the board of theAmerican Society of Composers,Authors and Publishers (ASCAP), Ipresented Herb with a ProclamationAward and Recognition for Herb’smusical contributions, followed byLynn Morris’s gift to Herbie of hisvery own tap-dance shoes.David MacKay, longtimeproducer and songwriter/collaborator, traveled from the U.K.to surprise Herb, following asequence of video messages by manyaccomplished songwriters in themusic business who havecollaborated with Herb for UWPover the years.Tommy Sullivan completed thecircle, delivering a very touchingvideo message to Herb from hispiano on stage at an arena inColorado. After a humbled thankyou by Herb, the “maestro” led us ina grand finale of “Where the RoadsCome Together.”Yes, SOME PEOPLE do makethe world a better place by beingin it … and then there’sHERBERT E. ALLEN.Stuart Shepherd (right) presents Herb with the UWPIAALifetime Achievement Award and Jane looks on.The Premier Community Celebration Eventit was a typical high schoolauditorium — maybe nicer thanmost. Theater-style seating. Awooden-floor stage, the kind thatwas really hazardous during thePolish dance. The requisite curtains.Mixer in the back of the theater,microphones on stage. A largemultimedia screen at stage left. Wehad just finished a potluck dinnerwith the WorldSmart students, andnow we filed into the auditorium andfound seats. An excited buzz filledthe room — after all, there were alot of alumni here. The lights wentdown, and the very first World-Smart Community CelebrationEvent began ... planned and producedentirely by the WorldSmartparticipants.Hiro Nishimura (87E) began theevening thanking everyone forparticipating in the event andintroduced the WorldSmart LeadershipProgram. “The biggest impactwe can make on the world is throughyouth,” said Hiro. “Tonight you willsee the students' cooperation andcreativity to share what they learnedfrom each other and what they havelearned from this community.”The CCE kicked off with arousing introduction of theWorldSmart Crew of August 2004by country. The audience clappedalong with the Crew as studentsfrom 25 countries proceeded to thefront of the stage. Canada, China,Ecuador, Israel, Japan, Kenya, Latvia,Mexico, Turkey, Ukraine and somany more, and, of course, “somepeople from as far away asBroomfield!”The evening’s emcees, NathanMetzler (Colorado) and DamisiJohnson (UK), took over and introducedthe first video presentation.We watched as the “WorldSmartSuperheroes”demonstratedtheir amazingpowers thatwill help themthrough theirsemester. Itwas clever, itwas entertaining,it wasaccompaniedby somefamiliar music,and it washilarious!Once theNathan Metzler andDamisi Johnson emceethe event.laughter died down, the Japanesestudents performed a traditionalThe WorldSmart Crew get in the groove with the Electric Slide.song and dance. Expanding on theirintroduction to Japan, Nate introducedand interviewed twoBroomfield High School studentswho were exchange students inBroomfield’s sister city, Maruko,Japan, which the WorldSmart Crewwill visit later this fall.Another multimedia presentationportrayed one of the primarycommunity service projects done inBroomfield: working on the HaymanFire Project, reseeding seven acres ofburned land, which will help preventerosion. The video brought theproject to life, and we could almostfeel their exhilaration and fatigue.The production switched gearsas Nate made his way into theaudience and singled out Bruce Erley(73X) to talk about his experienceboth in host families and as a hostfamily. That led to a skit to showwhat life as a WorldSmart participant— and as a host family — islike. One thing led to another, andsoon the stage was a swirl of swingdancing, break dancing, and even theElectric Slide (and what better dancefor audience participation?).The CCE ended with many ofthe participants individually approachingtwo microphones onstage. As “Ancestors” played in thebackground they stated their hopesfor the coming months, first intheir native language, and then inEnglish ... “I hope for culturaldiversity and understanding.”“I hope to experience things I neverimagined.” “I hope to inspire thechildren and youth of today.” “Ihope to try as many different kindsof food as possible!” “I hope tobuild friendships that last a lifetime.”“I hope ...”UpBeat 7

B UP EATHonoring Those Who Have Made a Difference2004 J. Blanton BelkOutstanding Alumna AwardKaren (Fisher) Ball (79C),nominated by Ray Villegas (79C)One person who has continuedto build bridges of communication,not only locally but also internationally,is Karen (Fisher) Ball.Karen has a daughter who was bornwith Sturge-Weber syndrome. Thereis no known cure to date for thissyndrome; however the research thatKaren and her husband have startedcould lead to that cure.The Balls were shocked to findout that medical personnel had littleor no information concerningSturge-Weber syndrome. So theBalls organized a group that wouldhelp make the public aware ofSturge-Weber syndrome and wouldalso offer support and help tofamilies going through the samething. In 1987, the Sturge-WeberFoundation was founded. Karenis the co-founder and CEO ofthe company.Karen has gone the extra mile tomake sure that those affected bySturge-Weber, along with theirfamilies and friends, are not alone intheir struggles. She has appeared atnumerous conferences as a guestspeaker, educating medical personneland people affected by Sturge-Weber. In doing so, she encouragespeople to come forth to helpher company grow by raisingawareness and funds needed forfurther research.Karen says, “Education opensminds and then hearts for essentialdonations. From the corporateboardroom to the T.V. newsroom;from city hall to neighborhoodbackyards — our focus remains thesame. We need to educate the public,empower families and individuals,and instigate research.” In thesewords, Karen definitely carries thetrue meaning of UWP’s philosophy,values and morals, and also has thevision J. Blanton Belk developedwhen he began UWP andempowered us all.Did your UpBeat arrive at the correct address?If not, go to theUWPIAAOnline Community!The UWPIAA Online Community is the directory of the Up WithPeople International Alumni Association. It’s not only a great placeto find lost UWP friends, but also an ideal way to be sure thatUpBeat is sent to your correct address.This directory is the only existing directory of UWP alumni, but we needyour help to make it more accurate.Once you register, you can update your own personal informationin the database – address, phone number, email, family members’names, job title and company, even your hobbies. You choose whatinformation to make public and what to keep private. And registeringis free!To register, go to www.uwpiaa.org and click on “online community.”There are detailed instructions listed there to help you access andupdate your information.Register in the Online Community nowand see how many of those old friends you can find!2004 James E. MacLennanEveryday Hero AwardsJeanie (Flayhan) Conzemius (80C,84A and others), nominated byEduardo Aguirre (84E and others)Jeanie not only exemplifies thevalues of UWP, but like JimMacLennan, Jeanie has beenunwavering in her commitment toliving a life of service to others,especially the most needy.Although Jeanie’s family is hertop priority, she has given significantvolunteer time to several communityprojects. In her position at OurLady of Guadalupe parish, Jeanieworks with the growing Hispanicimmigrant population in SouthDakota. It is a predominantly transientpopulation, with unstable livingconditions and few traditional supportsystems. Many are considered“illegal” and therefore are unable totake advantage of the social servicesavailable to most Americans.Jeanie has become an advocatewhere there are none, helping theHispanic population with everythingfrom medical issues to dealing with“slum” landlords and providing shelterfor women in abusive situations.Perhaps the best example of thisEveryday Hero was when Jeanie andher family opened their home toCarlitos Vazquez, a 7-year-oldMexican boy who was in Sioux Fallsto receive leukemia treatments.Jeanie not only provided lodging andfood in her own home, she alsoprovided everyday logistical andemotional support for Carlitos andhis mother. Six weeks turned intoseven months, at which time Carlitoslost his battle with leukemia. ButJeanie and other community leadersare determined to not let his deathbe in vain. They established the“Amigos de Carlitos Fund” to helpprovide medical care to the people ofCarlitos’s native Baja California,both through deliveries of medicalequipment and by providingassistance for those traveling toSioux Falls for treatment.In addition to her work with theHispanic community, Jeaniecontinues to volunteer with severalother community non-profits,especially those that help children.And so Jeanie carries on theideals of UWP with service to hercommunity, encouragingunderstanding among differentcultures and beliefs, and helpingthose who need it the most.Randy Hamilton (79B), nominatedby Lee Ann (Markle) Hamilton (77D)Randy is the epitome of anEveryday Hero. He doesn’t burstonto a scene to do large things thatdraw attention. It’s the countless actsof kindness, time commitment andvolunteerism that Randy performssteadily, every day, without lookingfor recognition or accolades.Randy consistently serves otherseach and every day: in his family, inhis neighborhood, in his church, andin his community. He does his bestwork diligently and without fanfare,seeing needs and finding solutions tofix problems.A natural leader, Randy has ledmany high school reunion committeesand has served for 25 years ascast representative 79B. In theTucson community, Randy takesvisually impaired people out on histandem bike to let the blind experiencethe thrill of bicycling. He lendsmechanical assistance as a volunteerBike Patrol member on races. In hischurch community, Randy serves as aDeacon and is an overnight host tohomeless men enrolled in drug rehabwith the Salvation Army. He hasdriven elderly homebound peopleto church on Sundays, headed upthe all-church BBQ and organizedweekend campouts for dozensof families.In recent years, Randy hascoached both soccer and basketball,and he’s a regular volunteer at hiskids’ school. He is often the dad whoorganizes games for kids atgatherings when other adults arebusy talking.His steadfast commitment intimes of family crisis as well ascelebration is heroic. His levelheadednessand devotion areunparalleled. He is an incrediblysupportive spouse and an excellent,involved father. Randy stands headand shoulders above many other menin the contributions he has madethroughout his life.8 fall ‘04

MemoryBookA Mother’s Loveby Joseph Green-Bishop (66A), Euless, TexasB UP EATEditor’s note: Whether we traveled in1965 or 2000, we all have stories totell. funny stories, sad stories,memorable stories. Those stories connectus all across the eras, and even acrossprograms. Please share your favoritestory by sending it to UpBeat@uwpiaa.org.ray Medina traveled toEurope in 1967 with Cast Ato meet Pope Paul at theVatican, Princess Grace Kelly inMonaco and Chinese sailors on thestreets of Venice. Ray had beenraised on the lower west side of NewYork in a high-rise project that wasboth brutal and loving.He had joined UWP after seeingthe show on the streets of New York.When Ray was selected to travel hebrought his clothes in a worn duffelbag. It was all that his family couldafford. The journey across theAtlantic Ocean was Ray’s very firstplane ride. Many of us who werefortunate enough to travel in UWPfour decades ago flew for the firsttime when we went on the road.Ray’s mother, Mrs. Medina, wasa middle-aged single woman wholoved her 17-year-old son with anelectric intensity that if harnessed aspower would have lit up TimesSquare. I recall her being at the airportwhen we were about to boardthe KLM flight that took us toEurope. She gave her son lastminuteinstructions about hisbehavior in a place that she hadnever been. She told Ray that sheloved him.Mrs. Medina had invested nearlytwo decades of living into Ray, heronly son and her young prince whomany had given little chance ofsurviving the rough streets of NewYork. But possessed with a determinationthat only God could haveplaced in her heart and a sense ofduty that she had learned from herparents and her grandparents, Mrs.Medina lived every day of herexistence to see to it that Rayreceived more out of life than whatliving had offered her.Like all of us, Ray enjoyed Italy.The Italians were wonderful! Theyfed us incessantly. They applaudedwhen we boarded public transit busesand they embraced our youthfulexuberance and our message. Ray,who spoke fluent Spanish, told methat he could one day see himselfliving in the country shaped like afine boot. It seemed like a perfectplace, he said.Just before one of our shows in atheater in Rome, Wardell Woodard,the late opera tenor, who was one ofthe stars of our show, led the meetingthat we had before each show. Thatevening, like all of the others, wewere encouraged to share ourthoughts and news from home.We were all sitting in chairs. Ray,who seldom said anything during oursessions, stood up. He reached intothe pocket of his yellow jacket andpulled out an envelope. Slowly hebegan to read a letter that had justarrived from his mother.“Dear Ray. I hope you are well,”Mrs. Medina wrote. “There issomething I must tell you. Yourfather died two weeks ago. Weburied him last week. I did not tellyou because I thought you wouldhave come home for the funeral.And I was afraid that if you came,you would never have the chanceto return to Up with People. Ilove you.”Then Ray sat down and hebegan to weep. Before long tearsfrom all of us flooded ourgreenroom. No one knew what tosay. So, we went to do our show.That evening in Rome, each of ussilently dedicated our performance toRay, his deceased father, and amother whose endless love shapedthe life of her son.Joseph Green-Bishop traveledfrom 1966-1969. He lives in Euless,Texas, with his wife, Trudi, and theirson, Daniel.MembershipCampaign Off to aSuccessful StartThe Supporting Membershipcampaign, which officially kicked offat reunion in Tucson, began with abang! A total of US$14,971 wasdonated in July, with nearly $9,000given in either outright gifts orpledges at reunion.There was an informalcompetition among the eras atreunion. The 70s era donated themost, at $3,924. The 80s were next,with donations of $2,607. Thencame the 60s, donating a total of$1,570, and the 90s made a goodshowing with $535.Special recognition goes to theMexican contingent at reunion. Ofall the countries represented, theMexicans had the largest percentagebecome supporting members bycontributing at least $20 to thecampaign. Muchísimas gracias!We also thank the pastpresidents of the UWPIAA, whotogether gave $3,525.You can become a supportingmember too. Just visit uwpiaa.org/donate.html for more information orto make a donation.Thank You, Cheryl!For the past two years, there has been one person keeping the UpBeat staffin line, making sure we had everything we needed to do our jobs and handlingall the day-to-day logistics that kept production on schedule. That person isCheryl Alspach (95A). Her work on every issue of UpBeat helped to make sureyou not only received UpBeat every three months, you also had a variety ofinteresting, informative and memorable stories to read. Cheryl has decided tostep down from the position, and while we always look forward to “new blood”on the team, we are sorry to see her leave. Cheryl, we are very grateful for yourtwo years of service to UpBeat, and more important, for your friendship.Thank you!— Vera Hagen, Dave Martin, Sheila Walsh Dettloff, Shawn Marie (Avery) CarnallCheryl AlspachPOSITION OPEN: UpBeat CoordinatorJOB DESCRIPTION: Assists in finding stories for UpBeat, maintains list of writers and finds new writers,collects copy and photos for each issue and forwards stories to editor, creates and updates bedsheet for eachissue, responsible for seeing that production stays on schedule, responsible for handling email sent to UpBeataddress.REQUIREMENTS: Well-organized, reliable email access, broadband access preferred due to size of files youmust handle, fun to work with!TIME NEEDED: Approximately 5 hours per week at the beginning of the production period for each issue(generally over a 3-week period), plus anywhere from 2-10 hours per week at other times, depending on howmuch time you have to devote to it. The coordinator generally has a one-month “down” time between issues.COMMITMENT: Two years, renewable.REPLY TO: communications@uwpiaa.orgUpBeat 9

B UP EATUWPIAA Supporting Member AdsPack your bags, (be sure to include your UWP photos and keepsakesand your dancing shoes) and head to Amsterdam, The Netherlands,for the 2005 European Alumni Meeting (EAM), March 11 – 13.This is a great opportunity to meet and greet alumni from all overEurope, covering most of the eras of UWP.For registration information and a schedule of EAM events, pleasevisit get-me.to/EAMsterdam, write AlumNet, Mr.P.J.M. Aalberselaan13, 1181 XJ Amstelveen, The Netherlands, or call +31-20-6417201or +31-6-54730466.* Reunion 2004 DVDs Available Soon *For more information on how to order your Reunion 2004Highlights DVD, contact Mia Hansen at miajhansen@msn.com.DVDs will be priced at $25, plus $3.95 shipping and handling(in the U.S.), $7.95 shipping and handling (outside the U.S.).A website will soon be available for online ordering, andinformation will be posted at uwpiaa.org. Or sign up for themailing list: Go to uwpiaa.org/bboard/index.php, click on theTucson 2004 board, then “Reunion Highlights DVD — MailingList.” If you are not a member of the UWPIAA Forums, youwill have to register before signing up for the mailing list.KiitosMerciTack SåMycketEduardo Aguirre (84E)Kimberly Badders Sundt (88E)Michael Clark (92D)Denis Cournoyer (84A)Pat Daniels (Office Staff)Brennan Evans (87E)Judy Goddard (Host/Real Family)Omar Guerrero (94C)Randy Hamilton (79B)Mia Hansen (77D)Jennifer Hard (85A)Jay Holmaas (91C)Jennifer (Hunnicutt) Ferrell (92E)Kathy Lee (81E)DankeschönThanksThe UWPIAA Board of Governors would like to express ourheartfelt thanks to the people who make reunions so incredibly funand successful. Since 2001, when the UWPIAA took over theplanning and execution of reunions, it has been crucial to have adedicated local group of alumni to handle the logistics. Reunionswould not be possible without them, and therefore they are the mainfactor in choosing a reunion site.For two years the Boston alumni sacrificed much of their freetime to plan every detail of the reunions held there, and this past yearthe Tucson host committee assumed that huge responsibility. Thoseof us attending reunion this year saw the extraordinary result of theirwork, described by attendees as “fantastic,” “unforgettable,”“impressive,” and just plain “terrific.”These are the people who ensured a great experience in Tucson.If you happen to “meet ‘em wherever you go,” please take the time tothank them personally for their outstanding work.“Our focus is YOUR human potential.”Dr. Fred Heismeyer (75A)Learning Coach/OwnerCustom, screen printed3-ring binders,printed tabs, business cards,invitations, letterheadand envelopesJAMPROMOTIONS, LLC479-756-9615fred@leadingandteaming.comPut your name or logo on shirts, hats, jackets, and promotional products such aspens, pencils, mugs, cups, golf balls, frisbees, and much more.Call or email Dave Martin (68C) today for a quote!Phone (toll free): 888-793-0447, Cell: 614-975-2814Fax: 740-965-9969, Email: sunbearie@aol.comLet JAM help spread your name!UWPIAA Supporting Member AdsServing Schools, Clubsand Associations, Companies,Sports Teams, Political Candidates,etc. and hopefully you!Dank uwelMuchasGraciasSheri Mikels-Romero (82A)Kerry Montano (87E)Dave Montano (88A)Mirea Pineda (94E)Tim Polito (84A)Tim Poore (87B)Jenny Porter Carillo (88D)Donna Reed (76A)Norman Schmitz (80C)Brian Shimamoto (91C)Barb Smith Butierez (75A)Pamela Traficanti (80B)Ray Villegas (79C)Stephanie Welsh (98A)10 fall ‘04

1980sDominique Parmentier (80E). Whereare you, cast E? Every time I readthe UpBeat news, I’m looking fornews from you! My email isparmentierdominique@yahoo.fr. Iwould like to hear news from you!Rev. Rob Taylor (82C) and RobApgar were married at St. John’sChapel in Cambridge, Massachusetts,on June 3, 2004. Rob is thepastor of Open Door MetropolitanCommunity Church in Boyd’s,Maryland (suburban D.C. area), anda doctoral candidate at PrincetonTheological Seminary. Rob Apgar isstudent in the Physical TherapyAssistant Program at HagerstownCommunity College. They live at12823 Spickler Road, Clear Spring,MD 21722. Email revrobtaylor@opendoormcc.comBrenda (Bradt) Dachner (86E)married on September 6, 2003, andmoved to Austin, Texas withhusband, David. They are expectingtheir first child in December 2004and are busy building their dreamhouse on Lake Travis. Scheduled tomove in by the end of August, theywelcome any and all visitors afterthat time. Email Brenda atbrendatango@aol.com.Michael Streppa (87C) says: We justgave birth to our second son,Owen Michael, born on June 2.Mason is now three and a half andadjusting to being a big brother.We’d love to have visitors! Homephone is 828-439-8220.1990sDerrick “D.C.” Johnson (90E) is 40!He is “still in the house, doingmusic.” He started a productioncompany in Louisiana and is stillproducing in his studio, laying downtracks for gospel singers andcommercial gigs. D.C.’s daughter isnow 16 and stands 5 feet, 11 inchestall, and doing well. He is divorcedand says he’s fine. Email: deffcoproduction@aol.com. Phone: +1 318-443-3030 (leave message).Scott Witty (91E) is presentlyworking as an actor with variousmovies and television shows. OnPeople on the moveDecember 28, 2002, he was marriedto Kristiina Vataja (a non-Uppie).Almost a yearlater, onNovember 26,2003, Scottand Kristiinabecameparents to avery happyScott and Jett Isaacbaby boy. His name is Jett IsaacVataja Witty. Scott also has twoproduction companies, one for filmand one for stage work. He still liveson Bowen Island, British Columbia.Mike Witty (92A) says after workingfor almost sevenyears with RoyalCaribbean CruiseLines in thetheatre, I retiredfrom the ship life.Presently I am Mikeback living in Winnipeg, Manitoba,B UP EATlooking for work in theentertainment industry. I am notmarried yet, no kids (that I know of )and enjoying life.Michelle (Jake) Jacobson (92C) is nowDr. Jacobson. She graduated fromSABA University School ofMedicine earning her doctor ofmedicine degree on May 22, 2004.She will get to stay in the same townand in the same house for three yearsas she completes her residency inpediatrics at Kalamazoo,Michigan. Congratulations, Dr. Jake!Maria (Hempel) Meier (94D) says:It’s amazing how time flies. Thesedays I’m trying to look beyond theconstant tugging of my pant legs togive myself focus that in a few years,this little one won’t need meanymore! Yes, after quitting our jobsand traveling the world (Europe, SEAsia and Western US/Canada)backpacker-style for one year, myhusband, John, and I have officially“settled down” with our one-year-olddaughter named Kona. The year oftravel makes for endless nights ofreminiscing, which only makes usitch for more. Parenthood suits usWe want to hear from you!Getting married? Newborn child?Back in school? Recent graduate?Get a promotion? New job?Have you moved?Yes! I have some news for the next UpBeat.Name___________________________________First cast/year __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Please clip or copy this form and send to:UpBeatP.O. Box 987North Platte, NE 69103-0987 USAor email your information to: upbeat@uwpiaa.orgPhotos are appreciated and can be returned if mailed with aself-addressed envelope.well and life is fine. John enjoys hisengineering work at the nearbyDulles International Airport and Iam caring for lots of little kiddies inour home, which keeps Kona nicelyoccupied. We live outsideWashington, D.C., and hope thatanyone visiting the area will stop byto say hello! Email meier54@hotmail.comLauren Letourneau (94E) announcesthe birth of her daughter Mia ElysePearson Letourneau, born onFebruary 6. She joins big brotherBlake, who adores her. Lauren is nolonger working as a florist, but hasbeen working as manager at thefamily greenhouse business for thepast three years. Her husband,Steve, recently received his mastersdegree in Secondary Education andis teaching at an alternative schoolfor troubled youth.Sara Nicole Schryver-Dakin (96E)and her husband, Bruce, currentlylive in Longmont, Colorado. Theirfirst son, Banks, was born June 3,2002. Sadly, their next child,Landree Jean, had a heart defect dueto Turner’s Syndrome and diedSeptember 19, 2003. The couple isnow expecting their third child inAugust of 2004. Her new address is11302 Deerfield Drive, Longmont,CO 80504 or email: sara.dakin@schryvermedical.comMeghan Moorhouse (97A) and herhusband Bob just moved to NorthBend, Oregon, where he is still flyinga helicopter with the U.S. CoastGuard. She is working from home asa grant writer for nonprofit agenciesand is always looking for newcontacts and organizations that needhelp with funding grants. Heraddress is 1839 Cleveland St., NorthBend, OR 97459 or email:moorhousesonthemove@yahoo.com2000sShannon Hurley (00C) graduated onMay 22, 2004, with her mastersdegree in Deaf Education from theNational Technological Institute forthe Deaf at the Rochester Instituteof Technology. On May, 30 2004,with Virginia Smith (00C) as theirwitness, she married Wes Seleenafter close to six years of dating. Thisyear she was also given the RochesterFirst Year Teacher of the YearAward. Shannon and Wes are nowbusy raising their two puppies intheir new house.UpBeat 11

UP BEATP.O. Box 987North Platte, NE 69103-0987Nonprofit Org.U.S. PostagePaidSunbury, OHPermitNo. 61UWPIAA Reunion 2005 —the 40th anniversary of Up withPeople — will be held July 28 – 31,2005, at the brand-new MarriottStarr Pass Resort (jwmarriottstarrpass.com), scheduled to be completedin November 2004. Inaddition to the four days of reunionevents, we will be offering a prereunionpackage for people interestedin local community serviceand sightseeing. Check theUWPIAA website (uwpiaa.org) formore details as they are determined.Tucson was chosen to host reunion for a second year based on incrediblystrong registration numbers for the 2004 reunion, combined with the enthusiasmof the Tucson host committee to take on the planning tasks for anotheryear. Reunion can’t happen without a strong local host committee, and theTucson alumni are ready to make sure Reunion 2005 attendees have theexperience of a lifetime!The Board of Governors warmly congratulates Mia Hansen and theTucson host committee, and thanks them for dedicating themselves tohosting another Southwest celebration in the summer of 2005!Contact your cast rep to be sureyou’re on the cast’s reunion mailinglist. The entire cast rep list wasprinted in the Summer 2004 issue ofUpBeat, available online atuwpiaa.org/upbeat.html.WorldSmart Leadership ProgramFall Travel ScheduleJapanMaruko, Nagano September 27 - October 3, 2004Kyoto October 4 – 10, 2004Toyota, Aichi October 11 – 17, 2004Odawara, Kanagawa October 18 – 24, 2004Tama, Tokyo October 25 – 31, 2004EuropeAntwerp, Belgium November 1 – 7, 2004Utrecht, The Netherlands November 8 – 14, 2004Cologne, Germany November 15 – 21, 2004Erfurt, Germany November 22 – 28, 2004Bern, Switzerland November 29 – December 5, 2004Rome, Italy December 6 – 12, 2004For more information please e-mail (North America) AndrewBlackman ablackman@upwithpeople.org; ( Japan) Shinichi Miyawakismiyawaki@upwithpeople.org; (Europe) Eugenio Plozza eplozza@upwithpeople.org.For the latest news on UWP and the WorldSmart program,please visit upwithpeople.org/pageinpage/breaking_news.cfm.12 Fall ‘o4