By Lori Ehde
It’s been a year of awards and accolades for 2003 Friend of Education, Luverne Lanes owner John Serie.
Serie is still basking in statewide attention for his generosity with Special Olympics bowlers.
In October, Luverne Lanes was named the "Minnesota Outstanding Corporate Business Organization" by Special Olympics Minnesota.
"It’s probably one of the nicest things that’s ever happened to me," he told the Star Herald after accepting his plaque. " … to be selected best business in the whole state."
Special Olympics Distinguished Service Awards recognize those who "best exemplify the spirit of Special Olympics."
Serie and Luverne Lanes were nominated by Jeanne Bowron and Katie Hemme, who co-manage and coach the Luverne Area Special Olympic athletes.
"He’s just been there for everyone in Special Olympics," said Bowron, who nominated Serie for his "generosity and big warm smile" that he extends to the bowlers.
LEA members Mary Jo Graphenteen and Mike Wenninger nominated Serie for the school’s Friend of Education Award.
"John Serie has been a friend of education for many years," Graphenteen wrote in her nomination.
"His continued support of our physical education classes and his willingness to use his expertise in teaching bowling skills to a number of students in a number of ways has been very beneficial.
"He has opened his bowling alley to all students and has made sure all students get a chance to bowl, regardless of their financial situation or skill level."
Serie’s involvement with Special Olympic bowling dates back to the 1980s when fewer than 10 students were involved in the program. Today, the program has grown to nearly 35 members, including an adult special needs population.
The bowling program starts in September and concludes in February. Serie accommodates those with physical or financial difficulties, and loans out his equipment for out-of-town competitions.
Wenninger and Luverne senior high school bowling league uses Luverne Lanes one day per week for two shifts of bowlers.
"Mr. Serie does a fantastic job of involving himself with all of the students that visit the bowling alley," Wenninger wrote in his Friend of Education nomination.
"He is an excellent teacher in a one-on-one basis. He truly cares for each person and finds the best in all of them."
The Friend of Education Award is judged by a committee of former teachers of the year.
The LEA has been honoring Friends of Education since 1988. Friends named in the past five years include: Lila Bauer last year, Dolly Talbert in 2001, Todd Mann in 2000, Carol Morgan in 1999 and Keith Maine in 1998.