Athletics > Gym Dedication
Gym Dedication
HHYD Founders Overwhelmed
Hospitality House staff and board honor founders in the new gym name, to the surprise of no one but them...
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HHYD Founders, Woody and Janet Larson
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When Elwood and Janet Larson founded Hospitality House in 1960 they probably had no idea that the organization would become a place with a 43- year a legacy of developing young people into great leaders. It did, and on Wednesday, May 28, 2003 Hospitality House celebrated that legacy by unveiling the newly renovated gymnasium in honor of its founders.
“The whole idea was to take things kids love to do (like sports) incorporate those things and use them as a foundation to lead the kids to Christ,” Elwood said, adding that when he initially had the idea, it was met with discouragement and criticism. “A man said to me, ‘Woody it’s impossible,” but Elwood didn’t buy into the negativity. Instead, he made it happen and opened the doors of the Hospitality House Boys Club for the first time in 1960.
Today, Larry McKenzie, Hospitality House Executive Director, is not only carrying through with the idea that the Larsons had over 40 years ago but he’s recognizing them for their efforts.
McKenzie, and his staff of Directors, felt it necessary to hold an honorary ceremony, dedicate the gym to the founders, and present gym banners that recognized the past Executive Directors of Hospitality House: Woody, Herb Pfiffner, Dave Halstensgard, and Dr. Ralph E. Galloway. Each banner shows their years of service and favorite Bible verse.
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“It’s because of their hard work and effort that Hospitality House has existed for the past 43 years and everyone needs to know that so we just wanted to pay tribute,” he said.
The Larson were presented with a plaque that read The Woody and Janet Larson Gymnasium.
Janet Larson gave a tearful thanks and expressed her astonishment, “I’m overwhelmed,” she said. The Larsons also expressed their appreciation to Hospitality House staff but they wanted to make it clear that God championed all their efforts.
“When God lays out a plan then it is done. This was the impossible dream, but it became a reality. I want to pass on our thanks to God. Thank You for letting is serve young people and our prayer is that You allow us to touch the lives of children for thousands of years to come.”
-- Terra Mayfield
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Today's Youth...
Tomorrow's Leaders.
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