They were known as the ‘Fastenal Five’, and recently, they were honored for their tremendous contributions to the Cotter community.

In the first ceremony held in the new gym inside the John Nett Recreation Center, Hiawatha Eduction Foundation members were recognized at the annual Founders Day event.  Bob Kierlin (class of ’57), Steve Slaggie ( ’57), Mike Gostomski (’58) and Jack Remick were in attendance.  A fifth honoree, Henry “Van”  McConnon (’57) was unable to be in attendance.

The gym was filled with Cotter students, andcommunity members, including State senator Jeremy Miller and representative Gene Pelowski.

Sr. Judy Schaefer led the honorees in as Mr. Knutson led a brass ensemble as the honorees processed into the gym.

Monsignor Colletti led a prayer which focused on giving thanks for those who have come before us and paved our way in life and education.

In her remarks, Cotter president Sr. Judy Schaefer, first credited the workers from Schwab construction for their work on the gym.

She then went on to thank the HEF members for their irreplaceable and continuing contributions to Cotter.

After Sr. Judy’s words, the show choir, under the direction of Cathy Snyder with Mark Roeckers providing accompaniment, performed “All Good Gifts” from Godspell.

Two current Cotter students, senior Tyler Suman and junior Sammi Knight, read a history of the group’s involvement with Cotter  called “They Had A Vision.”

Cliff Kaehler, ’07, then spoke about the spirit of giving and culture of excellence the honorees have helped promote at Cotter.

Kaehler’s comments introduced a short video montage of Cotter graduates thanking the honorees for the HEF scholarshp they have reeceived, many also noted how this support made a crucial difference in their education and career path.

Sr. Judy presented each of the four honorees with a gift and, with the help of Cotter board member Dave Vaselaar, unveiled a mural which recognizes their gifts to Cotter and will hang in the first floor of the Cotter high school building.

Mr. Kierlin spoke for the groups and told the assembled students that their greatest thanks would be making use of their education in leading a productive life.

The pep band played the school song as the honored guests and adults in the room processed out to a reception in the lobby of the Rec. center.