Boys and Girls Homes of North Carolina, Inc.

Boys and Girls Homes of North Carolina held its 2007 Alumni Reunion Saturday, October 13 at the pavilion on the campus of Boys and Girls Homes.  More than forty alumni and guests attended the 2007 event.  Jerry Parrish presided in the absence of David Herring who was unable to attend due to health reasons.  Following registration, renewing acquaintances, and socializing, those in attendance heartily enjoyed the “world famous” Boys and Girls Homes fried chicken lunch prepared by the staff of the Homes. 

Following lunch, Boys and Girls Homes President Bill Thompson welcomed everyone and provided an update on the status of the Homes.  Jerry Parrish and Mike Dixon then announced the forthcoming retirement of President Thompson and presented him with gifts of appreciation from the alumni.  Larry Hewett of BGH staff thanked everyone for coming and encouraged alumni to support the Homes financially as they could and by telling others about the work of the Homes so that they might give of their support if they desired. 

Hewett and Marie Kelly of the staff then presented gag gifts to various ones in attendance for being “superlatives.”  Sam Wood – oldest.  Paul Wells – youngest.  Sam & Christine Wood – most great grandchildren.  Leroy Collum - most grandchildren.  Paul Wells – longest distance traveled.  Thurston Hines – most hair.  Walter Thomas – least hair.  Prettiest – James Marley. 

Hewett then called on Bill Thompson to make the annual presentation of the Distinguished Alumnus Award.  Thompson announced that the 2007 recipient of the Distinguished Alumnus Award was Mike Dixon.  Dixon was described by Thompson as not only successful and a leader in his community but more, a lifesaver.  This description Thompson said went back to his days as a resident of the Homes and carried over now to his efforts with the Bolton Fire and Rescue Squad.  Dixon and his squad were instrumental in the rescue efforts of those impacted by the 2006 tornado in the Riegelwood community.  Dixon thanked everyone for the recognition as Distinguished Alumnus, saying “This really means a lot to me!” 

Sherry Brown, Marie Kelly, Lois Blackwell, Leon Dudley, and Cheryl Pope and the food service staff were thanked for their efforts on behalf of the reunion.  Following the meeting alumni and their family were invited to tour and visit the campus and attend the chapel service on Sunday morning.  Afterward, many of the attendees gathered at a Lake Waccamaw residence to continue their reunion and fellowship.  Those in attendance of the 2007 reunion appeared to enjoy the gathering!

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