Danbury Review's Tribute to the Graduates

   On the following pages you’ll find spotlights on graduates ranging from preschool to high school. We thank the seniors and their parents who returned the information so that we could make this issue a little more special.
   Congratulations to all graduates. Whether you’re moving up to kindergarten, advancing to a larger class, leaving the safety net of high school to enter college or get a job, or beginning a new career, we wish you the best of luck in your endeavors.

Danbury Catholic Preschool

Brady Seuntjens Dallas Knudsen Caeden Colbert
Emmett Dirksen Destiny Roling Chris Craig
Joseph Hopkins Collin Lansink Noah Oberreuter

Morningside Graduates Receive Diplomas At 110th Commencement Exercises

   Morningside College conferred 144 bachelor’s degrees and 147 Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) degrees during its 110th spring commencement exercises held Saturday, May 10.
   In addition to the 291 spring graduates, degrees were conferred upon August and December 2007 graduates, as well as students expected to graduate in August 2008.
   Outstanding graduates were recognized with special awards in their fields of study. Sammy Wenger of Danbury received the Dr. Tom Curry Outstanding Business Student Award, given in memory of the late Tom Curry, who was associate professor of business administration and economics at Morningside from 1991 to 2005.
   Toni Lacey and Sammy Wenger, both of Danbury, received their Bachelor of Arts degrees. Wenger graduated Summa Cum Laude.
   Melissa Flanigan of Sioux City received her Bachelor of Science degree. Flanigan graduated Cum Laude.
   Sara Schrank of Mapleton and DeRae Bettin of Odebolt received their Bachelor of Science in Nursing degrees. Bettin graduated Magna Cum Laude.
   Tara Devlin of Anthon is expected to graduate in August 2008 with a Bachelor of Arts degree. She participated in the commencement exercises.
   Kristen Westergaard of Mapleton will graduate in August with a Bachelor of Science degree. Westergaard will graduate Summa Cum Laude.
   Renee Uhl of Danbury graduated earlier this school year with a Bachelor of Science degree. She participated in the May commenement exercises.

Tova Jessen

   Tova Jessen is the daughter of Karen and Tim Jessen of Mapleton. She has five siblings, Eli, Isaac, Tira, Zoe, and Rayna. She is the granddaughter of Roger and Marlene Jessen of Danbury and Wayne and Zola Kafton of Mapleton.
   Tova has been a student at Hosanna Hall for her educational experience so far in her life.
   A wrestling fan, Tova was a manager for the MVAO wresting team. She is a very active 4-H member and a church youth leader.
   Tova plans to go to the Siouxland College of Massage Therapy in South Sioux City.

Tova,
   It has been a privilege to homeschool you for 13 years. You are a blessing to all of us.
Much love,
Mom and Dad


Danbury Catholic Promotions

   These students have made their way through sixth grade at Danbury Catholic and will be moving up to seventh grade at AOMV next year.

Karly Treiber Drew Boysen Charlie Nelson
Cameron Sexton Hayley Seuntjens

Maple Valley-Anthon Oto High School Class of 2008

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   Sixty students were honored during graduation exercises on Sunday afternoon, May 18th in the Maple Valley-Anthon Oto High School gymnasium in Mapleton. Attired in maroon robes and black robes and wearing their class flower, the maroon hocus pocus rose, the class received their diplomas from Dale Wimmer, president of the Maple Valley Board of Education and Robert Clausen, member of the Anthon-Oto Board of Education. MVAO Superintendent, Dr. Steve Oberg, presented the class to the school board representatives. The class of 2008 selected the class motto, “Arise, go forth and conquer, for today is the first day of the rest of your life.”
   The senior address was given by Derek Dougherty. The MVAO High School band, under the direction of Dennis Freking, played prelude music, the processional, and recessional. Eight juniors, selected by the senior class, served as ushers. Head users were Justin Hazard and Stephanie Allen. Other ushers included Alex Drea, Stephanie Jessen, Kristi Crilly, Sam Hanson, Cody Maynard, and Bryan Livermore.
   Dan Dougherty, high school principal, presented the following awards:
   Students graduating Magna Cum Laude, which is an overall grade point average of 3.5 or better: Jared Boyer, Bryan Boyle, Matt Boyle, Jessica Bruning, Derek Dougherty, Blaine Remmick, and Alex Wimmer.
   Students graduating Cum Laude, which is an overall grade point average of 3.0 Ð 3.49: Chelsee Bumann, Kristin Carlson, Kyle Deeds, Aaron Dose, Beau Hanson, Tyler Maynard, Stephen Phillips, Nathan Rodenburg, Chris Sadler, Nate Sadler, Brett Schrank, Adam Seuntjens, Jamie VanCleave, and Jennifer Wilson.
   State of Iowa Scholar: Jessica Bruning, Blaine Remmick, and Alex Wimmer.
   Omaha World-Herald Academic Team Nominees: Blaine Remmick and Alex Wimmer.
   Des Moines Register Academic Team Nominee: Jessica Bruning.
   Governor’s Scholar Recognition Award: Blaine Remmick.
   WIMECA Scholarships: from Mapleton Ð Blaine Remmick; from Anthon Ð Jared Boyer.
   Iowa Federation of Women’s Club Voc/Tech Scholarship: Beau Hanson.
   Maple Valley Education Association Scholarship: Derek Dougherty.
   Gayland and Mary Sadler Memorial Scholarship: Jessica Bruning and Matt Boyle.
   Alex Parker Family Memorial Scholarship: Elizabeth Berning.
   S.T. Ranch Trail to Success Ð given by Jack and Pat Tatum & Family: Bryan Boyle.
   Cargill Community Scholarship: Matt Boyle.
   Lloyd and Rachel Olson Scholarships: College Students Ð Amy Bruning, Kristina McGrain, Michele Pierce, and Preston Pierce. High School Students Ð Bryan Boyle, Matt Boyle, Jessica Bruning, Chelsee Bumann, Laci Huck, Blaine Remmick, Nathan Rodenburg, and Alex Wimmer.
   Bob Peterson Ð Helping Young Adults Be All They Can Be Scholarships Ð given by the Bob and Ginny Peterson Foundation: Bryan Boyle, Matt Boyle, Wes Burkhart, Beau Hanson, and Jennifer Wilson.
   PEI Teacher of Tomorrow Scholarship: Derek Dougherty.
   Siouxland Community Blood Bank Gift of Life Scholarship: Bryan Boyle.
   Masonic-Eastern Star Scholarships of Anthon Scholarships: Bryan Boyle and Jennifer Wilson.
   Vesper Lodge #223 Scholarship: Laci Huck.
   Bill Ferns Anthon Alumni Scholarship: Jared Boyer, Zach Gothier, and Jennifer Wilson.
   Maple Valley School Foundation Scholarships: Kallie Clausen, Derek Dougherty, Kyle McBride, and Matt Boyle.
   Danbury Nuns on the Run Scholarships: Bryan Boyle and Aaron Dose.
   Monona County Community Partners Foundation Scholarship: Alex Wimmer.
   First State Bank of Danbury, Battle Creek, Ida Grove, and FSB Bank PLUS+ of Mapleton Scholarships: Tyler Maynard, Jessica Bruning, Aaron Dose, Kyle McBride, and Kallie Clausen.
   Heritage Bank of Anthon Scholarship: Wesley Burkhart.
   Valley Bank & Trust, L.A. Amundson Scholarship Fund: 2nd Year College Students: Seth Anderson, Tabby Allen, Angie Flanigan, Laura Hoaglund, David Trimpe, Andy Wray, Travis Cameron, Jared Clausen, and Steffany Treiber; 1st Year High School Seniors: Beau Hanson, Abbi Bendixen, Lindsey McGrain, Chris Sadler, Nate Sadler, Jordan Schoenfeld, Jamie Van Cleave, and Alex Wimmer.
   Western Iowa Telephone Scholarship: Wesley Burkhart and Laci Huck.
   Oto Alumni Scholarship: Bryan Boyle and Laci Huck.
   Monona County Farm Bureau Scholarship: Beau Hanson.
   Geri Johnson Farm Bureau Scholarship: Jessica Bruning and Alex Wimmer.
   Monona County Cattlemen’s Scholarship: Jessica Bruning and Beau Hanson.
   Mapleton Rotary Scholarship: Matt Boyle.
   Burgess Health Center Auxiliary Scholarship: Matt Boyle.
   Cleo Tippery Memorial Scholarship: Janessa Rhode (current college student).
   Air Force Outstanding Math and Science Student: Blaine Remmick.
   National Honor Society: Bryan Boyle, Matt Boyle, Jessica Bruning, Aaron Dose, Derek Dougherty, Beau Hanson, Jennifer Wilson, and Alex Wimmer.
   Current Gold Club Members: 1 Year Members: Chelsee Bumann, Beau Hanson, Tyler Maynard, Kyle McBride, Lindsey McGrain, and Adam Seuntjens. 2 Year Members: Kristin Carlson. 3 Year Members: Jared Boyer, Bryan Boyle, Matt Boyle, Jessica Bruning, Aaron Dose, Derek Dougherty, Blaine Remmick, Nathan Rodenburg, Jamie VanCleave, and Alex Wimmer.
   President’s Academic Excellence Awards: Jared Boyer, Bryan Boyle, Matt Boyle, Jessica Bruning, Derek Dougherty, Blaine Remmick, and Alex Wimmer.
   Bernie Saggau Award: Derek Dougherty.
   MVAO Citizenship Award: Kallie Clausen and Tyler Walsh.
   D.A.R. Good Citizen Award: Alex Wimmer.
   Iowa Bar Association Citizenship Awards: Maple Valley: Alex Wimmer; Anthon-Oto: Bryan Boyle.

   Other Scholarship Recognition:
   Abbi Bendixen: Monona County 4-H Scholarship, College Now Scholarship from Western Iowa Tech.
   Jared Boyer: Presidential Scholarship, STEM scholarship, College Now Scholarship, Isadore Rocklin Annual Campaign Scholarship from Western Iowa Tech.
   Bryan Boyle: George Rhea Jackrabbit Guarantee Scholarship from South Dakota State University.
   Matt Boyle: Woodbury County REC Scholarship.
   Jessica Bruning: Iowa State University President’s Award for Competitive Excellence, Monona County 4-H Scholarship.
   Chelsee Bumann: Mass Communications Award, Mustang Co-Curricular Award from Morningside College.
   Kristin Carlson: College Now Scholarship from Western Iowa Tech.
   Aaron Dose: Woodbury County REC Scholarship.
   Derek Dougherty: Connections Award, Morningside Alumni Grant, Mass Communications Grant, Creative Writing Grant, Achievement Award, President’s Scholarship from Morningside College, St. John’s United Methodist Church Endowment Scholarship.
   Zach Gothier: In-State Tuition Academic Award from Wayne State College.
   Beau Hanson: Monona County 4-H Scholarship.
   Jeremy Heizelman: Promise Plus Coyote Grant, Preliminary Scholarship Award from the University of South Dakota.
   Ashley Hill: College Now Scholarship from Western Iowa Tech.
   Courtney Holton: Western Iowa Tech Board Scholarship, College Now Scholarship from Western Iowa Teach.
   Kalana Mauch: College Now Scholarship from Western Iowa Tech.
   Stephen Phillips: President’s Scholarship, Art Scholarship from Morningside College.
   Blaine Remmick: UNO Advantage Scholarship from the University of Nebraska-Omaha.
   Nathan Rodenburg: Dean’s Scholarship, Computer Scholarship from Morningside College.
   Chris Sadler: Music Participation Grant, Academic Scholarship, McGowan Iowa Endowed Scholarship, Men’s Wrestling Scholarship from the University of Sioux Falls.
   Nate Sadler: Nebraska Legacy Scholarship from the University of Nebraska-Omaha.
   Jordan Schoenfeld: Academic Achievement Scholarship from Briar Cliff University, St. John’s United Methodist Church Endowment Scholarship.
   Brett Schrank: Deacon’s Scholarship from First Presbyterian Church in Battle Creek.
   Adam Seuntjens: Electrician’s Scholarship, Albert and Dorothea Hansen Annual Campaign Scholarship, Board Scholarship, a College Now Scholarship, Skills Competition Day Scholarship from Western Iowa Tech.
   Cameron Tollufsen: College Now Scholarship from Western Iowa Tech.
   Jamie VanCleave: Dean’s Scholarship, Connections Award from Morningside College, Monona County 4-H Scholarship.
   Jennifer Wilson: Dean’s Scholarship, Athletic Grant from Morningside College.
   Alex Wimmer: Bishop’s Scholarship, Connection Scholarship, a Music Scholarship, a Leadership Scholarship, and an Academic Achievement Scholarship from Briar Cliff University, Monona County 4-H Scholarship.
   Kevin Zimmerman: Football Scholarship from Briar Cliff University.

Arise, go forth and conquer, for today is the first day of the rest of your life.
Tyler Maynard

   Tyler Maynard is the oldest son of Tracey and John Maynard of Smithland. His brothers, Cody and Dylan, are in high school at MVAO. He is the grandson of Dennis and Pat Petersen of Danbury and the late Ron and Margaret Maynard.
   Tyler attended elementary school in the Maple Valley district followed by middle school at AOMV, and high school at MVAO.
   Tyler was a key player on the Ram football, basketball, baseball and golf teams. He was also active in FFA and Phi Ramma Jamma. He was involved in the CYO program. He enjoys hunting and fishing in his spare time.
   Tyler plans to attend Iowa State to study either Ag Business or Ag Engineering.

Tyler,
   We are very proud of all your accomplishments. We wish the best for you at ISU.
Love always,
Mom, Dad,
Cody and Dylan

Hallie Seuntjens

   Hallie Jo Seuntjens is the daughter of Jack and Marla Seuntjens of Mapleton. She has two older sisters, Katie and Emily. She is the granddaughter of Bette and the late Pirk Koenigs and Wayne and Mary Seuntjens.
   Hallie has attended Maple Valley Elementary, AOMV Middle School, and MVAO High School.
   She has been very active in school, participating in Drill Team, BPA, volleyball, golf, band, and choir. She was a also basketball cheerleader and excelled in dance outside of school.
   Hallie plans to attend Hawkeye Community College in Waterloo and transfer to UNI in Cedar Falls. She will major in Communications.

Booj:
   Thank you for always being you! You’re simply the best! Congratulations and good luck!
Love you!
Mom and Dad

Justin Yockey

   Justin Yockey is the son of Scott and Connie Yockey of Anthon. He has an older brother, Chris. He is the grandson Marg Roark and the late Rich Roark, Fritz and Dorothy Yockey, and Al and Sandy Schreiber. His great grandmother is Lorraine Bottjen.
   Justin has attended school in the Anthon-Oto and Maple Valley school districts throughout his school career.
   Justin has been a pitcher for the Ram baseball team throughout high school. In his spare time, he likes to play cards and hang out with his friends.
   Justin's future plans are undecided at this time.

Justin,
   We are very proud for all you accomplished, and we wish you the best in your future.
Love you,
Dad and Mom

Abbi Bendixen

   Abbi Lee Bendixen is the daughter of Ken and Deb Venteicher and Jim and Rachel Bendixen. Her siblings are Bridget, Courtney, Megan and Rachel Venteicher and Shana, Mandi, and Kelton Bendixen. She is the granddaughter of Ed and Diane Lampe, the late Sandra Schmidt, Jerry Bendixen, Rita Dirksen, and Chuck and Sybil Rounds.
   Abbi attended Maple Valley Elementary School, then moved up to AOMV Middle School, and MVAO High School.
   Abbi has been very active in the rodeo, FFA, and 4-H. She sits on Monona County's 4-H County Council.
   Abbi plans to attend WITCC for 2 years and minor in Social Work. She then will attend Briar Cliff for 2 years to get her major.

Abbi,
   We are proud of you!
Love ya!
Mom and Dad

Jeremy Schmidt

   Jeremy Scott Schmidt is the son of Scott and Kelly Schmidt of Danbury. He has a big brother, Colt, and a little sister, Robin. He is the grandson of Glen and the late Marian Isom and Norman and Leona Schmidt all of Danbury.
   Jeremy has attended Maple Valley Elementary, AOMV Middle School and MVAO High School throughout his educational career.
   Jeremy enjoys spending time hanging out with his friends and working in the garage with his dad.
   Jeremy plans to go to Western Iowa Tech Community College to become an auto body repairman.

Jeremy,
We are so proud of you. We love you very much. Good luck in your future. Congratulations, you did it! Good luck at W.I.T.C.C.
Love,
Mom, Dad
Colt and Robin

Dallas Heath

   Dallas Heath of Anthon is the son of Brian Heath and Dana Wendt. He has 3 siblings, Jenny, Kristin, and Kolton. He is the grandson of Richard and Dolores Heath, Jervae Downing, and Dan and Pat Deeds.
   Dallas attended Anthon-Oto Elementary School to start off his educational career. He then moved on to AOMV Middle School and MVAO High School.
   Dallas was a key member of the Ram golf team. In his extra time he likes to go fishing and hunting and taxidermy.
   Dallas plans on going to school in January for Taxidermy. He will go to college after finishing his taxidermy classes.

Kevin Zimmerman

   Kevin Zimmerman is the son of Scott and Christy Zimmerman of Mapleton. He has a brother and a sister, Torey and Katie. He is the grandson of Bob and Pat Zimmerman and Mike and Donna Golden.
   Kevin entered his scholastic career at Maple Valley Elementary. He continued to AOMV Middle School and then MVAO High School.
   Zimm excelled in football for the Rams. He was also on the wrestling and track teams. He enjoyed hitting the weight room to lift weights.
   Kevin will be attending Briar Cliff University in Sioux City where he will be playing football with the Chargers.

Cameron Tollufsen

   Cameron Gene Tollufsen is the son of Lisa and Buzz Hinrickson of Battle Creek and Todd and Tammy Tollufsen of Battle Creek. His siblings are Kalvin Hinrickson and Ty, Teah, and Tanay Tollufsen. He is the grandson of Punky and the late Artie Schumacher and Lexie and the late Art Tollufsen.
   Cameron attended Maple Valley Elementary, AOMV Middle School, and MVAO High School.
   Cameron has a variety of interests. He enjoys fishing, reading, listening to music, and drawing.
   Cameron plans to attend Western Iowa Tech Community College in Sioux City in the fall where he will major in Carpentry.

Sean Meyer

   Sean Meyer is the son of Troy and Lynn McCormick of Anthon. He has 3 siblings, Brandon, Cody and Keaton. He is the grandson of Carolyn Meyer and the late Francis Meyer.
   Sean began his educational road at Cottonwood, Minnesota. His family then settled down in Anthon where he continued his journey through Anthon-Oto Elementary, AOMV Middle School, and MVAO High School.
   Sean plans to attend Iowa Western Community College at Council Bluffs where he will major in Business Administration.

Congratulations, Sean!!!
   We so proud of you!
Lots of Love,
Dad, Mom,
Brandon, Cody and Keaton

Josh Sargent

   Josh Sargent is the nephew of Pam Prell and Mike Keating of Ute. He has 2 brothers, Alex and Jed. His grandparents are Glen and Lola Wood (deceased).
   Sarge has been in the Maple Valley school district throughout his educational career, attending MV, AOMV, and MVAO.
   Sarge was a member of the Ram Wrestling Team. He belongs to the youth group at Faith Bible Church. He fills his spare time checking out the shows on TV.
   Josh will be going to WITCC in Sioux City to receive his associates in Education. He'll then go on to a 4-year college to attain an English degree.

Josh,
   You've faced some uphill battles already, but you have grown into a kind and caring young man that we are so proud of. Thanks for sharing your "growing up" years with us.
Mike and Pam

Stephen Phillips

   Stephen Phillips is the son of Holly Phillips of Anthon. He is the grandson of Barb and John Brockelsby, Donna and Ron Cholka, Shirley and Jack Brockelsby, and Eleanore Miller.
   Stephen began his schooling at St. Mary's-Storm Lake through the third grade. He moved to Anthon and continued at Anthon-Oto Elementary before moving up to AOMV Middle School and then MVAO High School.
   Stephen has used his creative talents in Destination Imagination, theatre, individual and group speech, band, and Future Problem Solving. His academic skills were used in quiz bowl and at the Space Settlement Design Competition where his team took first place and he was chosen to advance to the international competition. In his spare time, Stephen enjoys playing in garage bands, golfing, and chillin.'
   Stephen plans to matriculate at Morningside to major in Music Production and minor in Art. He would like to get a job working in the music industry.

Steven Gotto

   Steven Alan Gotto is the son of Steve and Sherry Gotto of Oto. He has four siblings, Stephie Gotto, Nick Gotto, Robbie Gotto, and William Gotto. He is the grandson of the late Nick Gotto of Oto, Lucille Gotto of Oto, and Mr. and Mrs. Bob Youngberg of Salina, KS..
   Steven began his education at Anthon-Oto Elementary. He advanced to AOMV Middle School and earned enough high school credits to graduate early.
   Steven keeps busy farming, fixing cars, hanging with his buddies, and going on tractor rides.
   Steven plans to attend Western Iowa Tech Community College in the fall of 2008 and study in Diesel Tech.

Steven,
   Thanks for hanging in for the last 12 years. The best is yet to come.
From all of us

Adam Seuntjens

   Adam Seuntjens is the son of Doug and Debbie Seuntjens of Mapleton. He has two older brother, Jason and Albert as well as a younger sister, Jenny. He is the grandson of Wayne and Mary Seuntjens and Eugene and Alice Wimmer.
   Adam attended Maple Valley Elementary, AOMV Middle School, and MVAO High School.
   Adam has been active in FFA for his 4 year tenure in high school and was a Gold Club member. He is an avid stamp collector.
   Adam plans to attend Western Iowa Tech Community College at Sioux City in the fall of 2008 where he will earn an Electrician degree.

Blaine Remmick

   Blaine Bilsten Remmick is the son of Jim Remmick of Mapleton and Cindy Remmick of Mapleton. He is the younger brother of Adam and older brother of Megan. He is the grandson of Carroll and Rena Skarin of Denison and Elvin Remmick of Lake View.
   Blaine attended Maple Valley Elementary School, followed by AOMV Middle School and MVAO High School.
   Blaine has kept busy in FFA, baseball, and as a member of the co-ed drill team. He also spends time at work.
   Blaine plans to work this summer doing construction. He will be attending UNO at Omaha this fall where he will major in Pre-dentistry.

Blaine -
   Congratulations on a great job. We are very proud of you and all the hard work you've done. We wish you the very best!
With love,
Mom, Adam, Megan
Dad, Megan
Grandma and Grandpa

Kallie Clausen

   Kallie Lynn Clausen is the daughter of Jackie and the late Paul Clausen of Anthon. She has a younger brother, Alex. She is the granddaughter of Wilma Clausen and the late Norman Clausen of Danbury and Babe and the late Tom Halterman of Mapleton.
   Kallie began her education at The Tottery Preschool with Grandma Shirlee. She attended kindergarten through fifth grade at Anthon Oto Elementary after which she moved on to AOMV Middle School and then MVAO High School. She has kept busy shopping, babysitting and hanging out with friends. She has been in dance, cheerleading, and on the drill and golf teams. She is also a member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church.
   Kallie plans to attend Iowa Western where she will study Sign Language Interpreter.

Dear Kallie,
It is so hard to believe that our baby girl is graduating...it was just yesterday when you left for Grandma Shirlee's with your Barney backpack! I love you so much, and I am so proud of you and all of your accomplishments...and Dad is too...he is always with you and will be through all of your future accomplishments!! Stay strong, stay focused, and always be happy!! Good luck at Iowa Western.
Love,
Mom
and Alex, too!

Derek Dougherty

   Derek A. Dougherty is the son of Dan and Mary Joan Dougherty of Mapleton. He has two younger brothers, Tim and Ryan. He is the grandson of Bob and Suzanne Dougherty of Bedford, IA; Willy and Vivian Morfitt of Nevada, IA; the late Vernon Wilhite.
   Derek began his schooling at Boyer Valley Elementary School in Dunlap. He entered fifth grade at Maple Valley Elementary when his family moved to Mapleton. He moved up to AOMV Middle School and then MVAO High School.
   Derek played on the football, basketball, track, and baseball teams throughout middle and high school. He was also in choir and sang with the jazz choir and took to the stage in the MVAO plays and musicals. He was on the student council and in Gold Club and National Honor Society. He showed his journalistic skills as a member of the newspaper staff, including as editor his senior year and bonded with the kindergarten class in Project PALS. Outside of school, Derek was a volunteer coach for youth flag football and a member of St. John's United Methodist Church. He makes some cash as courtesy/stock person at Fiesta Foods in Mapleton. In his spare time he likes to play sports, cards, and play the guitar and listen to music.
   Derek plans to attend Morningside College in Sioux City and major in Secondary Education/History & Social Studies. He also plans to get a coaching endorsement. He hopes to teach high school social studies/history and coach football and baseball. His long term goal is to coach football at the collegiate level.

Congratulations, Derek!
   We're very proud of the fine young man you have become. Life is not always fair or easy, but we know you will have the stamina and the strength to plunge ahead when the going gets rough. We'll always be here for you, and we will always love you! Follow your dreams and never lose sight of who you truly are! We are so blessed that God let us be your parents.
Best wishes!
Love, Mom & Dad

Kalana Mauch

   Kalana Marie Mauch is the daughter of Stephen and Penny Mauch of Mapleton. She has two big brothers, Kyle of Carroll, Daniel of Carroll, and a sister, Marissa at home in Mapleton. She is the granddaughter of Joan Butler of Soldier and Darlene Snow of Castana.
   For eleven years, Kalana attended MVAO. When she was in the eighth grade she received her education at Jefferson-Scranton School in Scranton.
   Kalana has been involved in choir, FCCLA, JEL, BPA, and track. She spends extra time writing poems, drawing, hunting, hanging out with friends, video games, and chatting on the computer.
   Kalana plans to attend Western Iowa Tech Community College in the fall to study forensic investigation.

Alex Wimmer

   Alexander Wimmer is the oldest son of Dale and Brenda Wimmer of Mapleton. His brother and sister are Jon and Megan, students. He is the grandson of Gene and Alice Wimmer and Russ and Carol Curry.
   Alex has remained in the Maple Valley and Anthon-Oto School Districts from kindergarten until graduation.
   Alex has been very active in his high school career. He played on the football, wrestling, baseball, and golf teams and was named to the all district honorable mention and all district all academic teams in football. He excelled in choir, singing in the jazz, concert and chamber choirs and participating in the vocal solo contest and in musicals and plays. He used his talents in individual speech, band, and in Destination Imagination. His academic skills were evident as he was in National Honor Society and Gold Club. Outside of school, Alex participated in CCD and was a Knights of Columbus member. He was very active in 4-H, including on the Monona County 4-H Council and Northwest Iowa 4-H Council.
   Alex plans to attend Briar Cliff University to study Mathematics and Computer Science.

   From camping and football games, to the county fair and now graduation, you have been our joy and delight for the last 18 years. We are so proud of the young man that you have become. Here's to continuing the journey at Briar Cliff University.
   P.S. Don't forget to call home so you can help with math homework.
Love you!
Mom, Dad,
Jon, and Megan

Chelsee Bumann

   Chelsee Lee Bumann is the daughter of Wendy and Steve Bumann of Castana She has a younger sister, Kylie. She is the granddaughter of Richard and LaDonna Bumann and Juanita and the late Ronnie Burke.
   Chelsee has attended the Maple Valley and Anthon-Oto School Districts throughout her career as a scholar.
   She has been involved choir and Phi Ramma Jamma as well as been the editor in photojournalism.
   Chelsee plans to attend Morningside College to study Psychology.

Courtney Seuntjens

   Courtney Kay Seuntjens is the daughter of Becky Seuntjens of Danbury and Stan Seuntjens of Correctionville. She has two older brothers, Sam and Dylan; and two younger brothers, Mac and Tanner. Courtney is the granddaughter of Ron and Marilyn Seuntjens of Mapleton and the late Lois Seuntjens and Jim Spaulding.
   Courtney attended Danbury Catholic School beginning in preschool and through the fourth grade. She then went into the Anthon-Oto Elementary School for fifth grade before advancing to AOMV Middle School and then MVAO High School.
   Throughout high school, Courtney has been involved in choir, BPA, FFA, Phi Ramma Jamma, Drill Team, volleyball, basketball, and softball. She has also been in CCD and FCA.
   Courtney plans to attend college.

Stacia Sorenson

   Stacia Lynn Sorenson is the daughter of Mike and Carolyn Sorenson of Castana. She has a brother, Steven. Her grandfather is Darrell Sorenson of Onawa.
   Stacia attended Maple Valley Elementary from kindergarten through fifth grade after which she attended AOMV Middle School and MVAO High School.
   Stacia keeps busy as a member of the drill, cheerleading, track, softball, and volleyball teams. In her spare time she loves creating art.
   Stacia plans to attend the Iowa School of Beauty.

Congrats, Stacia -
   We're proud of you -
Love -
Mom & Dad

Trevor Venteicher

   Trevor Joe Venteicher is the youngest child of Leon and Sandy Venteicher of Danbury. His siblings are Trudy, Terry and Tami. He is the grandson of Rita Dirksen of Danbury and Lois Smith of Ida Grove.
   Trevor began his schooling at Danbury Catholic. His middle school years were at AOMV, and he studied high school at MVAO.
   Trevor has been very involved in 4-H and FFA. He enjoys riding his 4-wheeler.
   Trevor will be working at Hultgren Implement in Storm Lake during the summer. He plans to attend NICC in Calmar, Iowa, in the John Deere Diesel Tech Program this fall.
Congratulations Trevor,
   Always be the caring person that you have been the first 18 years of your life, and you will do just fine in life!
Love,
Mom and Dad

Jeremy Heizelman

   Jeremy Jonathan Heizelman is the son of Dale and Cathy Heizelman of Mapleton. He has 2 older brothers, Rory and Todd. His grandparents are Melvin and the late Lois Heizelman of Sawyer, North Dakota, and Burt and Ellie Schultz of Minot, North Dakota.
   Jeremy, a lifelong Mapleton resident, began his schooling at Maple Valley Elementary followed by AOMV Middle School and MVAO High School.
   Jeremy has been involved in baseball, basketball, and golf. He also was the representive of his class on student council.
   Jeremy plans to attend the University of South Dakota and major in Communications.

Jeremy,
   The years flew by way too fast. We enjoyed every moment of your childhood and are enjoying the young man you have grown to be. You have made us so proud with the choices you have made. We know you will do a fantastic job at the University of South Dakota. Good luck and congratulations! We love you, Jer Bear! (couldn’t resist)
Love,
Mom and Dad

Beau Hanson

   Beau Hanson is the son of Brad and Mary Jo Hanson of Castana. He is the oldest of 4, with brothers Sam, Ted, and Glen in the MVAO and AOMV school systems. He is the grandson of Brady and Cathy Hanson of Castana and Bud and Bonita Kane of Mapleton.
   Beau made his educational debut at Maple Valley Elementary and then moved on to AOMV Middle School and MVAO High School.
   Beau has kept busy in FFA and 4-H. He excelled in football and wrestling and in band. He participated in CCD in his church and is a Knights of Columbus member. During the summer he is a little league coach.
   Beau plans to attend Iowa Central Community College where he will major in Ag Business and show off his football skills on the Triton field.

Beau,
We are so proud of the young man you have become. Don't be afraid to reach for your dreams, and always know that we are here for you. Congratulations on your high school accomplishments, and the best of luck to you at college.
Love,
Mom, Dad,
Sam, Ted, Glen

Zach Gothier

   Zachary Jeff Gothier is the son of Jeff Gothier and Jacque Griebel-Gothier of Anthon. He has 3 younger brothers, Austin, 14, Brady, 9, and Drew, 6. He is the grandson of Marlo and Arlis Griebel of Sioux City and Calvin and Joyce Gothier of Anthon.
   Zach began his schooling at Sunnyside Elementary School in Sioux City. He attended seventh grade at East Middle School in Sioux City. Eighth grade found Zach at AOMV Middle School. MVAO High School is the final step in Zach's current school career.
   As a senior, Zach is currently playing Ram baseball and is hoping for a very successful year. He enjoys basketball of which he was on the Ram team. He also enjoys golfing, fishing, boating, and campfires with his friends.
   Zach plans to attend Wayne State College in either the pharmaceutical or dentistry field. He'll also be trying out for the Wildcat baseball team.

   Good luck, son, we are very proud of you and hope you follow your dreams and cherish your high school memories.
   We love you, Zach, and will miss you when you leave for school.
Love,
Mom, Dad
Austin, Brady, and Drew

Kyle McBride

   Kyle McBride is the son of Rick and Marcene McBride of Danbury. He has a big sister, Rochelle McBride-Maynard. He is the grandson of Charles and Irene Uhl of Ida Grove and the late Walter and Mary McBride.
   Kyle kicked off his school career at Danbury Catholic School after which he moved on to AOMV Middle School and MVAO High School.
   Kyle has been involved in a variety of activities in school. He was active in FFA and PALS. He was a member of Gold Club. He was a player on the football, baseball, and golf teams and a member of Phi Ramma Jamma. He was on the co-ed dance team. He also gave a helping hand as a teacher's aide. In his spare time, Kyle enjoys hunting, 4-wheeling, wave running, and hanging out with his friends.
   Kyle plans to attend Iowa Western Community College in Council Bluffs to study Ag Business. He'll then transfer to a 4-year college to complete his major.

   Wishing you all the best as you continue your journey through life. Best of luck at Iowa Western Community College. We are very proud of you.
Love,
Mom and Dad

Chris Sadler

   Christopher Michael Sadler is the son of Todd and Jill Sadler of Mapleton. He has a twin brother, Nate, and a younger brother and sister, Hannah and Ben. His grandparents are the late Mary and Gayland Sadler and Kay and Dave Koenigs.
   Chris began his schooling at MV Elementary and then moved up to AOMV Middle School and then MVAO High School.
   Chris was a member of the Ram Wrestling Team and was a band member, including the jazz band. He uses his creativity in his music and writing.
   Chris plans on attending the University of Sioux Falls to major in Criminal Justice.

Chris,
   "Do or do not, there is no try." - Yoda, The Empire Strikes Back.
   Good luck at USF. We love you.
Mom, Dad,
Hannah and Ben

Aaron Dose

   Aaron Dose is the son of Steve and Cathy Dose of Mapleton. He has an older brother, Corey. He is the grandson of Leo and the late Norma Jean Dose and Wilma and the late Norman Clausen.
   Aaron attended Maple Valley for his elementary experience, followed by AOMV Middle School and MVAO High School.
   Throughout high school, Aaron has been involved in National Honor Society, PALS, a DARE role model, Destination Imagination, and TAG. He has been a key player in basketball, baseball, cross country, and track. He has enjoyed being in the all school play and in Catholic Youth Organization.
   Aaron hopes to fish a lot and play baseball and work for R.A.M. Construction this summer. In the fall he will be attending the University of Northern Iowa to major in Electronic Media. His dream is to get into the field of sports broadcasting.

Dear Aaron,
   When we wear our Proud Parents of Ram shirt to your basketball games, we really mean we are proud. You have worked hard, and now it shows. Your grandparents and all your family wish you the best at UNI. We hope to see you soon as the next sports broadcaster on ESPN.
Love,
Mom and Dad

Wes Burkhart

   Wesley Daniel Burkhart is the son of Dan and Nancy Burkhart of Oto. He has two younger siblings, Brandon and Katie who are both MVAO students. He is the grandson of Merlyn and Ruth Smith of Newell, Ed and Sandy Burkhart of Smithland, and Nancy and Roy Grothaus of Ida Grove.
   Wes began his educational path at Anthon-Oto Elementary. He then moved on to AOMV Middle School and finally on to MVAO High School.
   Wes was a part of the baseball, football, and basketball teams at MVAO. He was actively involved in FFA and 4-H, and he enjoys working on the farm. He also has a passion for hunting, fishing, and trapping.
   Wes will be attending South Dakota State University where he will major in Agriculture Business.

Wes,
   We are very proud of you! Follow your dreams. Go get 'em at SDSU!
With love,
Mom, Dad,
Brandon and Katie

Stephanie Heinse

   Stephanie Heinse is the daughter of Kurt and Sue Ann Heinse of Danbury. She has a younger brother, Ethan, a sophomore at MVAO. She is the granddaughter of Ed and Lucille Heinse of Anthon and Howard and Irene McCrady of Fort Dodge. Steph's love of her life was her boyfriend, Colt Baldwin.
   Steph attended Anthon-Oto Elementary School followed by AOMV Middle School and MVAO High School where she had been a senior when she was tragically killed in an automobile accident.
   Stephanie loved life, and she lived it to her fullest. Everyone she came in contact with was touched by her and her wonderful smile that brightened the room. She enjoyed music, shopping, the color pink, and was a big fan of Hello Kitty and Hannah Montana. She was active in sports including basketball, track, volleyball, and the drill team.
   Steph took meticulous care of her teeth, a trait necessary for her planned career, a dental hygienist. She had planned to attend WITCC to receive her degree.

We thought of you with Love today but that is nothing new.
We thought about you yesterday and days before that too.
We think of you in silence, we often speak your name.
All we have are memories and your picture in a frame.
Your memory is our keepsake with which we'll never part.
God has you in HIS keeping, WE have you in our Heart.

Stephanie,
   You will always be with us. We Love you Very Much!
Love, Dad, Mom
and Ethan

Matt Boyle

   Matthew John Boyle is the son of John and Ellen Boyle of Danbury. He has a younger brother, Alex, sixth grader at AOMV. His grandparents are Vince and Dorothy Boyle and the late Paul and Bernice Gahan.
   Matt attended Danbury Catholic School through the fourth grade. He spent fifth at Anthon-Oto before advancing to AOMV Middle School and then MVAO High School.
   Matt has been very involved in school. He was the student body president, in National Honor Society and Gold Club, and on the student council. He showed his musical skills in the jazz and concert band. He was on the track, cross country, and football teams. His name has replaced previous tracksters who have broken records and he surpassed their speed. He attended CCD at St. Mary's. He'll be spending time at the ball diamonds as he is a certified baseball umpire.
   Matt will be attending the University of Iowa where he will be entering the Pre-Pharmacy program.

We did not plant you, true.
But when the season is done-
When the alternate prayers for sun
and for rain are counted-
When the pain of Weeding and the pride
of Watching are through

Then we will hold you High
A shining sheaf above the
thousand seeds grown wild

Not our planting, but by Heaven
Our harvest our child.

May all your dreams come true,
Love,
Mom, Dad, & Alex

Nate Sadler

   Nathan Sadler is the son of Todd and Jill Sadler of Mapleton. He has a twin brother, Chris, and a younger brother and sister, Hannah and Ben. His grandparents are the late Mary and Gayland Sadler and Kay and Dave Koenigs.
   Nate has been in the Maple Valley school system all 13 years of his schooling, began at MV Elementary, moved up to AOMV Middle School, and advanced to MVAO High School.
   Nate was a member of the band, including the jazz band. He loves playing and listening to music and playing video games.
   Nate plans on attending UNO to major in Psychology.

Nate,
   "With great power comes great responsibility." - Spider Man
   Good luck at UNO. We love you.
Mom, Dad,
Hannah and Ben

Tyler Walsh

   Tyler Donald Walsh is the son of Jody and Michelle Walsh of Mapleton. He has two little sisters, Maddie and Ellie. He is the grandson of Wayne and Dodie Johnson and the late Don and Donna Walsh.
   Tyler attended Maple Valley Elementary, AOMV Middle School, and MVAO High School.
   Tyler was very involved in the FFA organization at MVAO. He used his singing talents in choir and performed in the all-school plays. A big time hunter and fisherman, Tyler loves anything in nature.
   Tyler will be a ranch hand at Niobrara Spirit River Ranch near Valentine, NE, for this summer. He will be attending Ellsworth Community College to pursue a career in Conservation or Outfitting.

Lindsey McGrain

   Lindsey Jo McGrain is the daughter of Dave and Karla McGrain of Mapleton. She has two older brothers, Nate and Phil, and a younger sister, Abby. She is the granddaughter of Mary Woodward and great granddaughter of Blanche Woodward.
   Lindsey began her education at Maple Valley Elementary. She then moved on to AOMV Middle School and then to MVAO High School.
   Lindsey was active in FFA and FCCLA in high school. She was also a member of the Gold Club. She enjoys making pottery in her spare time.
   Lindsey will be going to Iowa Western Community College for 2 years and then transfer to Bellevue College to finish her Graphic Design major.

Reach as high as you can, and never give up. Believe, and anything can happen.
   Love Mom and Dad

Jordan Schoenfeld

   Jordan Schoenfeld is the son of Deb Schoenfeld of Mapleton and the late Larry Schoenfeld. He has 6 siblings, Dan, Devon, Kelly, Rheanon, Zach, and SiAnne. His grandparents are Elaine Collins of Mapleton and Fred and Rita Schoenfeld of Battle Creek.
   Jordan has been in the Maple Valley school system his entire educational career, starting with MV Elementary, then AOMV Middle, and finally MVAO High.   
   Jordan has been active during high school. He was a key player on the baseball, football, and wrestling and golf teams. He was also active in FFA and Project Pals.
   Jordan plans to attend Briar Cliff University in Sioux City where he will major in Medical Technology/Radiology.

Jessica Bruning

   Jessica Bruning is the oldest daughter of Mike and Lisa Bruning of Castana. Her siblings are Andrea, a freshman at MVAO and Kevin, a seventh grader at AOMV. She is the granddaughter of Tim and Sue Bruning of Castana and Rosemary and the late James Cox of Dubuque.
   Jessica attended Maple Valley Elementary before moving on to AOMV Middle School and MVAO High School.
   Jess has kept busy in cross country and track. She excelled in band and in choir, including jazz band and jazz choir. Her acting abilities were evident in the school musicals and plays and in Destination Imagination. She also participated in quiz bowl and BPA. Outside of school, Jessica was very active in 4-H including the county council and the area council. In her spare time, Jessica enjoys sewing and running.
   Jessica plans to attend the Iowa State University.

   We are so proud of all you have done. We hope for the best at ISU, and we'll be here to support you in all your future plans.
Love,
Mom and Dad

Jared Boyer

   Jared Boyer is the son of Randy and Charlene Boyer of Anthon. He has 2 brothers and a sister, Dustin, Joshua and Cierra. He is the grandson of Elsie and the late Charles Damisch, Sr. and Judith and the late Keith Boyer.
   Jared has attended the Anthon-Oto and Maple Valley Schools for the duration of his schooling.
   Jared has excelled in golf at MVAO and was on the cross country and basketball teams. He was also a good musician, playing in the band and jazz band. He is a 3-year Gold Club member. He was involved in CCD at St. Joseph's. When he isn't involved in school activities, Jared likes golfing, swimming, hanging out with friends, and going to school activities. He can also be seen working.
   Jared plans to attend Western Iowa Tech Community College to major in Engineering. He plans to then transfer to a 4-year university. His goal is to work for a major engineering firm.

Jared,
   We are very proud of you and all of your accomplishments! Remember - keep your faith in the center of your life, and all else will follow!
Love ~
Mom, Dad
Dustin, Josh and Cierra

Justin Kafton

   Justin Daniel Kafton is the son of Joyce and Terry Kafton of Mapleton. He has two sisters, an older named Tammy and a younger named Toni. He is the grandson of Jim and Irma Sokolowski and Arvin and Carole Kafton.
   Justin attended Danbury Catholic School through the sixth grade. This was followed by AOMV Middle School and MVAO High School.
   Justin was a key player on the Ram football team and was part of the wrestling team. He was very active in FFA, including Project Pals. He enjoyed going to the ball games and was a member of Phi Ramma Jamma. Justin enjoys working on the farm.
   Justin plans to attend South Dakota State University in Brookings, South Dakota where he will major in Agri Business.

   We are very proud of you, Justin! Set your goals high at SDSU and go for it. You deserve the best.
Love,
Mom and Dad

Elizabeth Berning

   Elizabeth Berning is the daughter of Mike and Lori Berning of Anthon. She has a sister, Sarah Beery, and 2 brothers, Matt and Jake. Her grandparents are Wilfred Berning of Mapleton and Dolores and Richard Heath of Anthon.
   Elizabeth spent her first day of kindergarten at Anthon Oto Elementary. She remained at A-O until middle school when she moved up to AOMV. High School advanced Elizabeth to MVAO High.
   Elizabeth was involved in cheerleading and golf. She loves horseback riding and barrel racing, and pole bending as a member of the High School Rodeo Association.
   Elizabeth plans to be involved in college rodeo and dedicate her college years to Equine Study.

Elizabeth,
   We are so proud of your rodeo accomplishments. We love you.
Mom and Dad

Nathan Rodenburg
Jamie VanCleave Sam Mesenbrink Bryan Boyle Kendra Perkins Courtney Holton

   Courtney Marie Faye Holton is the daughter of John and Kyla Holton of Mapleton. Her siblings are Johnny, Jennifer, Cody, Cole, Cassidy, Shawn, Travis, and Jordan. She is the granddaughter of Jack Coombs, David and Georgia Rounds, and Jack and LaVon Holton.
   Courtney, a graduate from MVAO High School, has a head start in her college life as she obtained 19 college credits through WITCC during her junior and senior years at MVAO.
   Courtney has been very involved in school. She was a member of FCCLA and BPA. She used her athletic abilities in volleyball and track and as a cheerleader for wrestling and football. She was in the chamber choir and performed in the school play. Courtney was also active in the American Heart Walk, JEL, and AAU.
   Courtney plans to attend the Western Iowa Tech Community College her first year and then transfer to Simpson College where she'll pursue a degree in Psychology.

   We are so proud of you, Courtney. It's important that you know how very much we love you and how much all of us will miss you
Love,
Mom and Dad
and family

Kyle Deeds Jon Hookham Ethan Wolf Jake Berry Brittany Bowen
Kristin Carlson Daniel Wulf Kyle Livermore Chad Hamilton Brett Schrank
Joey Hopkins Jennifer Wilson Brett Utterback Laci Huck Tyler Bollig
Tucker Bieler Nicole Rhode Ashley Hill Stephanie Parr

   Stephanie died tragically in her early years. She would have graduated with the Class of '08. Her parents are Keith and Marlene Parr of Castana.

Derek Dougherty's Commencement Speech

The First Day of the Rest of Our Lives
   “Arise, go forth, and conquer. For today is the first day of the rest of your life.” This is the motto of the Maple Valley-Anthon Oto Class of 2008. My fellow classmates, today is the first day of the rest of our lives. Today is the day that we have waited thirteen LONG years for. We have all worked extremely hard to get here today, to Commencement Sunday.
   I would like to welcome all of you today to the commencement exercise, and right now I would like to talk about my class, the Class of 2008. Now, I know we may seem like “big-time” seniors, rulers of the school, but believe it or not, we were not always like this. I know, I know, it’s hard to believe. But we started off as small innocent kindergartners at either Maple Valley or Anthon-Oto, and some of us at different schools. We learned the ropes of elementary school, gradually moved up the ranks and were all thrown together for the first time in sixth grade at Anthon-Oto Middle School. That was interesting. After the first awkward week, we became less segregated and by the end of the year, we became one class: the class of ’08. Our journey carried us through 7th grade to 8th grade, where we were finally rulers of the middle school. Needless to say, we had pretty big heads by then and were confident as we entered the unknown world of high school. Our big heads shrunk instantly when we realized that we were no longer big fish in a little pond. As freshmen at MVAO, we were more like a goldfish in the Pacific Ocean. But we persevered, and as a class we have been through a lot these past four years.
   From freshmen hazing to the deadly sophomore biology class with Mr. Stodola, then just when we thought we’d escaped Mr. Stody, we were bombarded with chemistry. We have celebrated together through conference championships and state appearances in sports to state drill team, BPA Nationals, choir and band contests and many FFA projects, as well as countless other activities we have all been a part of. We also stuck together through the passing of two friends and classmates, one we lost early in our elementary careers, Stephanie Parr, and a friend and classmate we lost this past winter, Stephanie Heinse. Through all of this, we have carried each other, supported each other, and we’ve done it as a class.
   When I was first selected to give the senior address, I was pretty excited. I thought I had a million things I could say about my friends, my class, and my time here at Maple Valley-Anthon Oto High School. But when I sat down to prepare this speech, I could find no words to accurately describe my feelings toward all of you. I simply cannot put into words how much MVAO means to me, how much my classmates mean to me, as well as all of my teachers, coaches, mentors, and anyone else who has helped us to get to this point in our lives.
   Classmates, this may very well be the last time we are all together. Next year, we will all be heading our separate ways. Some of us will go to college and further our education; others may get a full-time job. Some of us will join the military and defend our country through these times of peril. But no matter where our paths lead us, we will always have our memories. In our minds and in our hearts will be biology, the new school, prom, choir, band and FFA trips, study halls that we never studied in, sporting events, yelling at sporting events, getting in trouble for yelling too specifically at sporting events (we know who we are J), Homecoming games, and our senior skip day that we just had. These memories will never leave us. Even ten years from now I will probably think of some dumb thing that a classmate said to me in high school and laugh out loud and all the “grown-ups” around me will stare at me like I’m an idiot. But it’s ok, I’ll understand.
   Wherever we go in life, we will always be the Maple Valley-Anthon Oto Class of 2008. We will always bleed maroon and gold. We will always be Rams. Thank you.


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