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Morning Star Boys' Ranch began in 1956 when Bernard J. Topel,
Catholic Bishop of Eastern Washington, saw a need to
provide a home where dependent, neglected, or pre-delinquent boys could
receive help in a caring, supportive environment. Because of his encouragement
and the support of other strong community leaders, the first boy
arrived at the Flannery House in January of 1957.
Joseph Weitensteiner was
the first counselor at the Ranch. He remained at the Ranch until 2006, except for a
few years he spent at the seminary. Now, as "Father Joe" he has helped nearly 1300 boys.
In the early years, special attention was given to those boys referred by
the Spokane Juvenile Court. Presently, state and private referrals are also accepted.
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