New London graduates gather

Over 100 graduates and guests attended the New London High School Alumni Banquet June 15 in the school cafetorium. After a dinner served by Sterk's, Alumni Association President Eric Ebinger presided over the meeting, which was canceled last year because of an area-wide power outage. Ebinger said he decided this year not to send out invitations because of lack of money in the treasury. He acknowledged this was not a popular decision but felt it was the only responsible one, under the circumstances. He said, "It's on me and I had to make a tough decision." Aside from himself as president and treasurer Steve Fawcett, Ebinger said all offices need to be filled and asked for nominations from the floor. No one was nominated, and Ebinger thanked Gayle Ashbaker for helping him organize the banquet. Superintendent Brad Romano, with 16 years with the district and 11 as superintendent, welcomed everyone and listed items in the school's strategic plans. He said the former bakery building is being used by the Boys & Girls Club for free afterschool and summer programming, as well as for other activities. The Kerz Family Fitness Center has over 100 users and fills a need in the community. The school is the recipient of several grants, one of which focuses on safety, and another has helped make its literacy program a model for other districts. Finally, he discussed the new athletic complex, which should be ready for football and track in the fall of 2025. Tom Neel, president of the New London Area Historical Society, told the audience about a program being undertaken to have 80 New London Record microfilm rolls going back into the 1800s digitized. Each roll will cost $150, and the total will be between $12,000 and $13,000. Funds are being sought for this project, and the Friends of the New London Library are accepting donations. Recent graduates Paige Wilson and Emily Rowland received this year's association scholarships. Each thanked the group and outlined her future plans. This year's honored classes were 1974 and1969, celebrating 50 and 55 years since graduation. Tom Dunlap, a member of the 50-year class, reminisced about his class's history. The most senior of the graduates in attendance was DeLaurice Bilton Cooke, Class of 1941. Dean Bailey graduated in 1945, Norma Bailey Bilton in 1946, Jean Haynes Myers in 1947, Harold Erlenbach and Vaughn Neel in 1948 and Lois Fetterman Neel in 1950. Jeremy Gessner, Class of 1995, provided the entertainment by showing some of his videos and singing, accompanied by his guitar. More of his creative videos can be found on Facebook. Jonna Hanville Rowland, Class of 1969 won the 50/50 and donated the proceeds to the association. Boy Scouts presented the colors andTerry Knudsen, Class of 1973, gave the invocation.