Boys and Girls Homes of North Carolina, Inc.

 Alumni Association Reunion 2005

 Saturday, October 8, 2005 and Sunday, October 9, 2005

The Boys and Girls Homes of NC Alumni Association held it's 2005 reunion Saturday, October 8 and Sunday, October 9 2005 in the Fellowship Hall of the Boys and Girls Homes Chapel.  Approximately 25 alumni plus various members of their family and friends attended this year's event.  Throughout the weekend, alumni members visited with each other, visited the campus, and other parts of the community that was home for them while living at Boys and Girls Homes.  Following lunch on Saturday of Boys and Girls Homes famous fried chicken and fixings, the members received an update on the programs offered by Boys and Girls Homes from President Bill Thompson.   Gary Faircloth and Gene Cheek were selected as "Distinguished Alumni" for the 2004-2005 year.  In receiving his award, Gary gave a tremendous testament to those "cycle breakers" he called his heroes - fellow alumni, family, and employees who made a difference in his life.  Gene was unable to attend the meeting due to an appearance scheduled by his book publisher (The Color of Love - The Lyons Press, Guilford, Ct., 06437)   Tom Simmons and Walter Thomas were the recipients of the 2003-2004 awards.  Alumnus Pete Watkins was honored for having traveled  the greatest distance (California).  Ronnie Marley and Mike Dixon for best tales about "how it was!"  Jerry Parrish for most grandchildren (5)  - there was a tie among several for that number but Jerry had most recent!  James Marley received prize for "most spirited" - came in barefoot to announce a cookout to benefit Boys and Girls Homes employee Sherry Brown's son. Longtime employee Leon Dudley was very appreciative of those who visited his wife following lunch on Saturday and according to him, that was the most wonderful gift she could have received, to have those she touched come visit her. 

It is tremendous to experience the reunions and recollections of those who grew up and were touched by BGH.  The Homes received a nice offering from the alums and family for the lunch and for help with the operational costs.  All alumni and family were encouraged to continue giving as they could and to also tell others about the Home.  It appeared that all in attendance had a great time and the Homes hope the event can continue to grow and serve the former residents of the Home.

The pictures that follow show some of those in attendance at the 2005 reunion.

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Alumni and family listen as Boys and Girls Homes President Bill Thompson reports on the state of the Homes. Former resident and employee Gary Faircloth and former Director Les Craft reflect on past experiences.
Gary Faircloth receives the 2004-05 Distinguished Alumnus Award from President Bill Thompson. Gary Faircloth and Pete Watkins.  Pete was one of the first boys to live on the Lake Waccamaw campus.
Former residents Mark Clayborne and Rex Harrell with their wives. Longtime employee Bill Morrison shares experiences with past Director Les Craft.
Alumnus and past Board of Directors Chairman Jerry Parrish talks with Vince Chrapliwy. Curtis Powell and James Marley keep things going!
Curtis Powell, Jerry Parrish, Jimmy Boone, Mike Dixon, Vince Chrapliwy, and Gary Faircloth get together for this group photo. Pete Watkins and Jerry Parrish.
Former residents Garry Elliott, Ronnie Marley, and Tommy Brown receive a check from New Market Civitan President Terry Jackson to go to the club's endowment fund.  These guys all lived in the Civitan Cottage during a part of their stay at the Homes.  Garry is now a member of the Lion's organization and has served as District Boys and Girls Homes representative for his group.