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A PUBLICATION OF RONCALLI CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL
Volume 12, Number 1 • September 2014
50th
ANNIVERSARY
CELEBRATION
PAGE 4
Hot Dog Feed and
Ice Bucket Challenge
page 25
Rev. Msgr. James Gilg Named RCHS Honorary Alumnus of the Year
page 23
25th annual festa del leone raises more than $300,000
Marge and John Andrew honored with Pope John XXIII Award
page 10
25th annual swing with pride golF outing
Many generations unite to raise money for student scholarships
page 14
Graduation 2014
2014 RCHS graduates with alumni parents
page 16
Two Named Volunteers of the Year
Dr. Ken Keefner and Richard Stibor honored
page 21
Dan Vacek honored
2014 RCHS Alumnus of the Year
page 22
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RONCALLI CATHOLIC PRIDE | SEPTEMBER 2014
TABLE OF CONTENTS
September 2014
Click on any page description below to be taken to that page.
Click “Return to Table of Contents” on any page to return here.
Save the Date: High Tea November 2, 2014 .............................................................. 4
A Message from our President .................................................................................. 5
Roncalli Canonized on April 27 ................................................................................ 6-7
Roncalli Catholic 50th Anniversary ......................................................................... 8-9
More than 1,000 turn out for Mass and Family Festival on August 3
25th Annual Festa del Leone Raises More Than $300,000 . ............................... 10-11
Marge and John Andrew honored with Pope John XXIII Award
All About Alums ................................................................................................... 12-13
25th Annual Swing with Pride . ........................................................................... 14-15
Many generations unite to raise mnore than $36,000 for student scholarships
Graduation 2014 .................................................................................................. 16-17
2014 RCHS graduates with alumni parents
RCHS Welcomes New Teachers and Staff ..........................................................18-19
Archbishop Lucas Celebrates First All School Mass August 21............................... 20
In Memory of Former RCHS Teacher Sr. Agnes Marie Ostry, N.D........................... 20
RCHS Honors two As Volunteers of the Year
Dr. Ken Keefner and Richard Stibor named .......................................................................... 21
Dan Vacek Named Alumnus of the Year .................................................................. 22
Reverend Monsignor James E. Gilg - Honorary Alumnus of the Year . ................... 23
RCHS Student Garden .............................................................................................. 24
Fourth Annual Fireworks Sale .................................................................................. 24
Spring Play - Into the Woods .....................................................................................25
Annual Hot Dog Feed and Ice Bucket Challenge . .................................................... 25
Cheer Squad Wins NCA Spirit Award ...................................................................... 26
Crimson Pride - 2014 Varsity Football Schedule ...................................................... 26
Baseball Stadium Lights ........................................................................................... 27
Fall and Winter 2013-2014 Sports Highlights ........................................................... 28
Spring 2014 Sports Highlights .................................................................................. 29
RONCALLI CATHOLIC PRIDE | SEPTEMBER 2014
3
On our cover
On Sunday, August 3 more than 1,000 people helped kick-off Roncalli Catholic’s 50th Anniversary Year. The
event featured Mass celebrated by the Most Reverend Elden F. Curtiss, Archbishop Emeritus of Omaha at 11
a.m. in the school’s Rummel Stadium followed by a Family Festival that ran until 6 p.m. More than 600 attended
Mass. Pictured are Deacon Rick Niedergeses, RCHS President Emeritus Fr. Lloyd Gnirk, Most Reverend Elden
F. Curtiss, Archbishop Emeritus of Omaha, RCHS Chaplain Fr. Chi Igboanusi, and Deacon Joe Laird. 50th
Anniversary photos courtesy of student Katelyn Harr.
See page 8 for more on the anniversary celebration
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RONCALLI CATHOLIC PRIDE | SEPTEMBER 2014
Save the Date!
November 2, 2014
14th Annual High Tea
Fan favorite Michael Walker returns
Ladies, get ready to swoon! Michael Walker will be back at High
Tea this year! Walker performed at the 2012 High Tea and is
known to feature a playlist that is reminiscent of the mid-1960s
Rat Pack. His performances include songs such as “Fly Me to
the Moon,” “It Had to Be You,” and “Beyond the Sea,” to name
a few. Michael has recorded several albums, made national TV
appearances, and appeared live on stages across America.
RCHS President Jeff Dempsey and
Event Coordinator Julie Grosse-Rhode
with Michael Walker before the
2012 High Tea event.
Need more information?
Visit our web site www.roncallicatholic.org or
email [email protected]
So save the date for Roncalli Catholic’s 14th Annual High Tea
fundraiser set for Sunday, November 2. This event is a Roncalli
Catholic tradition that encourages creativity and fun while
raising funds for scholarship and tuition grant programs for
our students. Each year, Rummel Gymnasium is converted into
a large tea room, with Hostesses decorating each table in their
own unique theme. From fine china to picnic baskets, and from
glamour to just plain fun, this creative event appeals to women
of all ages.
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RONCALLI CATHOLIC PRIDE | SEPTEMBER 2014
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A Message f r o m o u r P r e s i d e n t
Dear Roncalli Catholic family:
As Archbishop Emeritus Elden Curtiss put it, “Roncalli Catholic is experiencing a real
Renaissance!”
The Archbishop made that remark during his Homily at an outdoor Mass of Thanksgiving
attended by more than 600 attendees, in celebration of our school’s 50th Anniversary year. And,
I think it’s safe to say that Roncalli Catholic High School is truly in the midst of a Renaissance.
(See page 8 for all the details on the Mass and Family Festival.)
Jeff Dempsey, President
Roncalli Catholic
High School
Our patron, Angelo Guiseppe Roncalli was canonized Pope Saint John XXIII on April 27, the
commemoration of which kicked off our year-long celebration of wisdom, courage and faith
on the Roncalli Catholic campus. Students celebrated with Pope St. John Week, a whole week
dedicated to our patron saint capped off by a Mass of Thanksgiving with Archbishop George
Lucas on April 28.
With 363 students, our enrollment is at a 20+-year high, and includes a freshman class of
101! Enrollment has grown each of the past five years and by 25% in the timeframe. Our families come to us from throughout
the metropolitan area and the world, including 35 different zip codes and 60 previous parishes and schools. Current international
students are visiting us from China and Slovakia. Our new media center, the Gustafson Center, is complete and already buzzing with activity. This facility has been made possible
by the generosity of the James (Gus) and Kristen Gustafson Family Foundation, Roncalli Catholic’s Facilities Committee and by
the many who contributed to the project during our 2014 Festa del Leone. We are looking forward to an official blessing and
ribbon cutting on September 26, prior to our Homecoming football game. The facility is a tremendous addition to our school – we
will all benefit from it for years to come, in ways we surely have yet to imagine.
Archbishop George Lucas presided over our first all-school Mass of the Holy Spirit on August 21. Eight priests and 11 Sisters from
four different orders joined us. With 363 students and a good number of guests, the Notre Dame Auditorium was filled to near
capacity! It was a great way to start our school year.
You may have heard of the “Ice Bucket Challenge” which is raising money for and awareness of the disease ALS. Roncalli
Catholic students participated in our own Challenge at our annual Fall Sports Kick-off on August 22, sponsored by the Booster
Club. Funds raised were directed to the Nebraska Coalition for Ethical Research. The Challenge provided a great teachable
moment for our students to better understand our Church’s stance on embryonic stem cell research and the celebration of life. Please do feel welcome and plan to join us on Friday, September 26, for the Gustafson Center blessing (5:00) and our Homecoming
football game (7:00), and for any of the many events we host on our beautiful campus. The following link will allow you to see
all of our upcoming athletic events and activities, http://www.rivercitiesconference.org/g5-bin/client.cgi. Our first-ever “Trivia Night” is also in the works for February 21, 2015. Look for more details on this event in the near future.
We are blessed in so many ways and are at the start of what promises to be tremendous year at Roncalli Catholic! As always,
please feel free to let me know of any questions or suggestions regarding our great school. Thank you for your friendship,
generosity and continued support.
God bless, Jeff Dempsey, President RCHS
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RONCALLI CATHOLIC PRIDE | SEPTEMBER 2014
Roncalli Canonized on April 27
Archbishop Lucas Celebrated a Mass of Thanksgiving
at Roncalli Catholic High School April 28, 2014
Above: Nathan Leuck (Sophomore),
Fr. Craig Locker (Pastor St. Leo Omaha),
Fr. Lloyd Gnirk (President Emeritus,
RCHS), Fr. John Pietramale (Pastor Our
Lady of Lourdes), Fr. Tom Weisebecker
(Pastor St. James Omaha),
Deacon Rick Niedergesses,
Fr. Chi Igboanusi (Chaplain RCHS), Jason
Solis (Junior), Archbishop Lucas, Fr.
Patrick Harrison (Senior Associate
St. Gerald Parish Ralston), John Sullivan
(Junior) and Jared Nigrin (Junior).
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Roncalli Catholic’s patron,
Saint Angelo
Guiseppi
Roncalli, Pope John XXIII,
was canonized on April 27,
with Pope John Paul II.
On Monday, April 28, students, faculty, staff, alumni, friends and
visiting priests gathered in the Notre Dame Auditorium to celebrate
our patron’s canonization, with The Most Reverend George Lucas,
Archbishop of Omaha, presiding over an All-School Mass of
Thanksgiving. Prior to Mass, attendees viewed a 20-minute clip
featuring highlights of the canonization service that most may have
missed. (The six-hour time difference meant the celebration and
ceremony in Rome took place at 2:30 a.m. in our Central time zone).
During the homily, Archbishop Lucas pointed out that God’s plan
for all of us is to achieve sainthood – each and every person is
designed to have an eternal life in heaven with God. He encouraged
attendees to be inspired by Saint Pope John’s life and embrace
God’s plan.
The Mass capped off Pope Saint John Week at the school – a week
of awareness-building and celebratory activities in honor of the
namesake of Roncalli Catholic High School. Pope John Week
included videos and discussion about Pope Saint John as well as
Pope John Paul in Religion classes, decorated hallways, prayer cards
provided by Campus Ministry to commemorate the canonization,
and cupcakes donated by the Notre Dame Sisters following the
April 28 Mass. Celebratory cupcakes were provided by Drizzles
Bakery in Bellevue, owned by RCHS alumna Mary Pat Guerrier.
More CANONIZATION on page 7
RONCALLI CATHOLIC PRIDE | SEPTEMBER 2014
Roncalli Canonized
continued from page 6
Did You Know?
In 1958, immediately following his papal election, Pope
John XXIII announced his intention to convene the Second
Vatican Council to renew the Catholic Church in the context
of the modern world. The first meeting of the council was
held on October 11, 1962. Although he died the next year,
Pope John XXIII set in motion the proceedings that would
revolutionize the Catholic Church, bringing about such
modern changes as the Mass being said in vernacular
language, renewed interest in the Scripture and the
introduction of the Lay Ministry.
As Pope John XXIII, he was known affectionately as
“Good Pope John” and “the most loved Pope in history”
to many people. In 2000, Pope John was declared
“Blessed Angelo Guiseppi Roncalli” by Pope John
Paul II, the penultimate step on the road to sainthood.
Following his beatification, his body was moved from
its original burial place in the grottoes below St Peter’s
Basilica to the altar of St. Jerome and displayed for the
veneration of the faithful.
Top: Deacon Rick Niedergesses, Jason Solis
(Class of 2015) and John Sullivan (Class of 2015)
visit with Archbishop Lucas prior to the April 28
Mass of Thanksgiving at RCHS.
Bottom: Archbishop Lucas with RCHS Campus
Ministry students Brian Bosn (Class of 2015) and
Mary Jo Carney (Class of 2014). RCHS Culinary
students prepared and served lunch to Archbishop
Lucas, the selected Campus Ministry students,
school administration and visiting priests, following
the April 28 Mass.
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RONCALLI CATHOLIC PRIDE | SEPTEMBER 2014
Top: More than 600 people attended the
August 3 Mass, with Archbishop
Emeritus Elden Curtiss (left),
in Roncalli Catholic’s Rummel
Stadium.See front cover for photo
of other clegy in attendance.
Below: Long-time RCHS religion teacher, Mr. Tim Mueting, was one of the
dunk tank targets at the school’s 50th Anniversary Family Festival
on August 3.
MORE THAN 1,000 PEOPLE TURN-OUT FOR
RONCALLI CATHOLIC 50TH ANNIVERSARY
FAMILY FESTIVAL ON AUGUST 3
Event Kicks-Off Year of Celebration for the School
On Sunday, August 3 more than 1,000 people helped kick-off
Roncalli Catholic’s 50th Anniversary Year. The event featured
Mass celebrated by the Most Reverend Elden F. Curtiss,
Archbishop Emeritus of Omaha at 11 a.m. in the school’s Rummel
Stadium followed by a Family Festival that ran until 6 p.m. More
than 600 attended Mass.
The festival featured two bands, children’s activities such as
bounce houses, a dunk tank, pie eating contests and tours of the
school.
According to RCHS President Jeff Dempsey the event was a great
opportunity for people to see all the great things happening at the
school.
“In September, our Gus & Kristy Gustafson Center will be
complete,” said Dempsey. “This collaborative learning center
will feature state-of-the-art technology to help fulfill our mission
of preparing our students to face life with wisdom, courage and
faith.”
More 50th ANNIVERSARY on page 9
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RONCALLI CATHOLIC PRIDE | SEPTEMBER 2014
9
50th Anniversary
continued from page 8
Above: Among other activites, the festival featured
two bands, children’s activities such as
bounce houses, pie eating contests and tours
of the school.
50th Anniversary photos courtesy of student
Katelyn Harr.
“From our rich history to our upcoming innovations,
there is so much for us to celebrate as a school
community,” continued Dempsey.
This year the school also celebrated the canonization
of their patron, Angelo Guiseppi Roncalli, Pope Saint
John XXIII, with a Thanksgiving Mass with Archbishop
Lucas on April 28 (see page 6).
In addition to the family festival, the year will include
a Homecoming reunion event in September, a Trivia
Night in February, an alumni basketball tournament in
March and a baseball/soccer game alumni event in the
Spring, to name just a few of the activities.
For all the details visit the Roncalli Catholic web site at
www.roncallicatholic.org.
50th
ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION
Schedule of Events
September 26, 2014
Homecoming Football Game & Alumni Event
November 2, 2014
14th Annual High Tea
February 21, 2015
Trivia Night
March 2015
Alumni Basketball Tournament
Spring 2015
Home Baseball/ Soccer Game Alumni Event
April 11, 2015
Festa del Leone
Classes encouraged to plan reunions for the event
May 18, 2015
Graduation – Closing of 50th Anniversary festivities
For additional information email
[email protected]
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!
10
RONCALLI CATHOLIC PRIDE | SEPTEMBER 2014
25th Anniversary
Festadel
delLeone
Leone
Festa
raises more than
$ $3oo,ooo
Marge & John Andrew honored with Pope John XXIII Award
More than 550 guests and volunteers celebrated Roncalli
Catholic’s 25th Annual Festa del Leone on Saturday, April
12. The event raised more than $300K to support the
school through scholarship, tuition assistance, technology
programs, and facilities.
This record-breaking amount comes on the heels of a
$100K donation made in March by the James and Kristen
Gustafson Family Foundation for the construction of the
school’s new learning and media center. The Gustafson
family also offered an additional $50K challenge gift, to
be matched at the April 12 Festa del Leone for technology
needs and the new learning center at Roncalli Catholic.
“We feel very blessed that our journey has brought us
to Roncalli Catholic and that we can be part of it all,”
said Kristen Gustafson. “The energy, excitement and
generosity at Festa del Leone was overwhelming. The
sense of pride, loyalty and kinship at Roncalli Catholic
is unparalleled and was out in full-force at the event.”
“Thanks to our co-chairs, Barb and Joe Lamoureux,
who worked with us every step of the way, the event
was a huge success,” continued Gustafson. “People
simply didn’t want the night to end!”
Barb and Joe Lamourex (Rummel* Class of 1971) are
on-board to chair next year’s event and echoed the
Gustafson’s sentiments.
Top:John and Marge Andrews with Roncalli Catholic
President Jeff Dempsey following the presentation
of the Pope John XXIII Award.
Bottom: Co-chairs Barb and Joe Lamourex with Chairs
Kristy and Jim Gustafson.
Photos courtesy of Katelyn Harr.
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“This one-of-a-kind event really showcases all that
makes Roncalli Catholic great,” said Barb Lamoureux.
“Plans are already in the works for next year and we
are thrilled to be part of it,” continued Lamoureux.
“The possibilities are endless.”
“It was a great celebration and a wonderful way
to honor all that Marge and John Andrews and
their family mean to Roncalli Catholic,” continued
More FESTA on page 11
RONCALLI CATHOLIC PRIDE | SEPTEMBER 2014
Festa
11
. . . . continued from page 10
Dempsey. “Thanks to the Gustafsons and Lamoureuxs as
well as the support and participation of so many alumni,
parents, students, staff and friends, this was our most
successful Festa del Leone in 25 years.”
Festa del Leone, translated “Feast of the Lion,” is the
school’s premier fundraising event, rich with traditions
25 years in the making. As part of this long-standing
tradition, the school’s Rummel Gymnasium was
transformed into a formal dining room, complete with
carpeting, silver lions and student servers. The night
featured: a signature dinner catered by Zurlo’s Bistro
Italiano; live and silent auctions; and a raffle drawing
with three prizes including a Samsung Smart TV, a
Microsoft Surface 2, and an Xbox One.
Award Presentation
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the
Pope John XXIII Award to Marge and John Andrews.
John is a Rummel* alumnus (Class of 1974) and Marge
was a Development Assistant at the school. The Andrews
started to be active volunteers while their children were
students and even served as co-chairs for the school’s 1999
Festa del Leone. Both continue to support the school in
many ways. John also served on the Alumni Board and
continues to serve on the school’s Development Board.
The Pope John XXIII Award, named after Angelo
Guiseppe Roncalli, is bestowed upon those individuals
who exhibit extraordinary devotion and commitment to
Roncalli Catholic and “serving the children and friends
of God.” RCHS President Jeff Dempsey and President
Emeritus Father Lloyd Gnirk presented the award.
Auction, Menu and Sponsors
Gary Sharp, from 1620 The Zone, served as the Master of
Ceremonies and Andy Petersen (Class of 1978) served as
auctioneer for the festivities. Father Chi Igboanusi, the
school’s full-time Chaplain, gave the invocation.
The evening menu created by Executive Chef Enzo
Zurlo for the event featured butler-style hors d’oeuvres;
a cold antipasto station; Arcadian mixed greens with
strawberries, feta cheese, toasted almonds, and raspberry
vinaigrette dressing; homemade bread with roasted
garlic butter; family-style penne alla vodka; seared beef
tenderloin with roasted red pepper and cioppolini demiglaze with shrimp scampi; and parmigiana encrusted
asparagus. The classic Italian meal was finished with
homemade tiramisu and cannoli.
Centerpieces from the Mercury Glassware Collection,
featuring metallic lighted silver vases and votives, with
fresh crimson Gerbera daisies, crimson roses and offwhite hydrangeas, highlighted the silver anniversary of
the event and were provided courtesy of Mulhall’s.
Major corporate sponsors for the event included Alegent
Creighton Health, Immanuel Medical Center and there
were 30 sponsored tables.
Save the Date!
26TH ANNUAL FESTA DEL LEONE
Saturday, April 11, 2015
Co-Chairs Heidi & Richard Anzalone
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RONCALLI CATHOLIC PRIDE | SEPTEMBER 2014
ALUMS
All About
Rummel Class of 1969 Reuion:
Charge On Mighty Men!
The Rummel Class of 1969 reunion spanned the first
weekend of August beginning at Clancy’s West on Friday
and dinner at Upstream in the Old Market on Saturday.
Some of the alumni even stuck around for the 25th Annual
Swing with Pride golf outing on Monday.
Tim Molak made a digital version of the Class of 1969
Yearbook. Click here to check it out!
Top: Golfers include Mike Price (Rummel Class of
1969), Jay Buckley, Joe Tourek (Rummel Class of
1969) and Jim Preiner (Rummel Class of 1969).
More ALUMS on page 13
More GOLF on page 14
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of Pride magazine and Roncalli Catholic High School.
Center: Mike Price, Jim Preiner, Joedy Sandhoefner,
Tim Molak and Don Bohnenkamp.
Bottom: Standing: Mike Price, Bob Leavitt, Joedy
Sandhoefner, and Kevin Hruska.
Sitting: Greg Jones, Ken McNary,
Jim Preiner, and Ron Headley.
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RONCALLI CATHOLIC PRIDE | SEPTEMBER 2014
13
ALUMS
All About
We heard from . . .
After 34 years with the San Diego Unified School District
(last assignment was as principal of Ellen Browning Scripps
Elementary School), Gregory Collamer (1971) retired and
purchased a new home in Temecula, CA. Following 23 years of marriage, Kim (Myers) Conner
(1981) lost her husband to lung cancer in April.
Above: Rummel Class of 1971 friends Michael
O’Connor, Jim Price, Steve Maher and
Chuck Chevalier had their own reunion on
August 2 when O’Connor was in town from
Alaska.
More ALUMS on page 12
More GOLF on page 14
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Dr. David Lanoue (1972) was recently recognized for his
contributions as a faculty member of Xavier University.
Click here to see the tribute video played at his award
ceremony.
Mike McCarville (2004) received his Ph.D. in entomology
and plant pathology from Iowa State in May.
Greg Stiles (1977) has accepted a position as the Public
Information Officer/Legislative Liaison for the Arizona
Department of Racing, which regulates the state’s horse
racing industry.
Alumni, let us share your news . . .
Do you have news to share with your fellow Alumni?
Click here and then on “Update Your Account” and fill
out the “Tell us Your News” section. We will include it
in the next Pride magazine! (http://roncallicatholic.org/
Alumni.aspx)
Sign Up Online
Volunteer at Roncalli Catholic
Volunteering just got easier!
Simply go to i-Volunteer Online
http://roncallicatholic.i-volunteeronline.com
an online scheduling system
where volunteers use a public link to sign up.
Enter your name and email in one or more slots.
Then, click the link to verify your commitment
when you receive the confirmation email.
At Roncalli Catholic, volunteers are a vital part
of the success of our school.
We are always looking for volunteer support
for our various fundraising events,
as well as school and athletic activities.
From data entry to concession sales,
we appreciate any support you can give.
Roll up your sleeves and join the fun!
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14
RONCALLI CATHOLIC PRIDE | SEPTEMBER 2014
Many Generations Unite
to Raise More than $36,000
for Student Scholarships
Long-Standing Tradition Celebrates with 200+ Golfers
On August 4, golfers celebrated a Roncalli Catholic tradition
25 years in the making and raised more than $36K for the
school’s 350 students.
Held at The Players Club at Deer Creek, the 25th Annual
Swing with Pride, A. Len Leavitt Memorial Golf Open
united 200+ alumni, current and past parents, staff, and
friends of the school for a day of fun on the greens. Several
foursomes represented many generations of RCHS alumni
and supporters, including the Leavitt family with four
generations in attendance.
The Swing with Pride, A. Len Leavitt Memorial Golf Open
was started in 1989 by A. Len Leavitt (deceased) and Roncalli
Catholic President Emeritus Fr. Lloyd Gnirk to fund the
Leavitt Memorial Scholarship for RCHS students.
According to RCHS President Emeritus Fr. Gnirk the event
was born as a means to raise funds for the school’s students
but has evolved into so much more.
“Throughout the years the Swing with Pride Golf Open has
become more of a reunion and celebration of our school’s
history and future,” said Fr. Gnirk.
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Top: Three generations of the Feldhaus family
joined RCHS President Emeritus Fr. Lloyd Gnirk
for the 25th annual event. From left to right: T.J.
Feldhaus (Class of 2011), Jason Feldhaus (Class of
1994), Fr. Lloyd Gnirk (President Emeritus Roncalli
Catholic High School), Dr. Richard Feldhaus
(Alumni Parent), Dr. Steven Feldhaus (Class
of 1974), Bryan Feldhaus (Class of 1999), Kevin
Feldhaus (Class of 2014), Tai McNulty (Spouse of
Kim Feldhaus, Class of 2004). The Feldhaus Family
Foundation was a Pride Level Sponsor for the event. Inset: Gus Gustafson and award-winning Husker
past quarterback, Tommie Frazier wait for the
shotgun start at the 25th Annual Swing with
Pride Golf Outing. Gustafson is a current parent
of a RCHS student and the Gustafson Family
Foundation is backing the school’s new media
center, the Gustafson Center, set to open later this
month.
More GOLF on page 15
RONCALLI CATHOLIC PRIDE | SEPTEMBER 2014
Above:
Our own TJ Orr (Class of 1996),
put together a foursome of
Bob Nocita (Class of 1996)
Jeff Schrage (Class of 1996), and
Jamie Schrage (Class of 1993).
Golf . . .
15
Above:
Class of 2007 alumni Mark Schlueter,
Tony Cuva, Jeff Roh, and Drew Petersen.
continued from page 14
Participants at this year’s outing alone drew participants
from as far away as the East and West coasts with alumni
and past faculty making the trip to show their support.
“The shared love of Roncalli Catholic and commitment
to its success are really what makes this event so special,”
continued Fr. Gnirk. “That camaraderie unites the many
generations of Roncalli Catholic supporters.”
“I am thoroughly thrilled with what this event has become
and I think it is safe to say that (late) Len Leavitt would
agree,” said Fr. Gnirk.
According to RCHS President Jeff Dempsey, the silver
anniversary of the Swing with Pride Golf Open is just one
of the many exciting things happening at the school this
month.
“With our enrollment growing, the success of our golf
tournament, the excitement of the August 3 Family
Festival*, and the completion of our new, state-of-theart Gustafson Idea Center, our 50th Anniversary year
promises to be a great one for Roncalli Catholic,” said
Dempsey. “And, it’s the support of our Roncalli Catholic
family at events like this golf outing that makes all of this
possible.”
Participants had a burger and brat lunch on the patio
prior to the noon shot-gun start with a cocktail hour and
BBQ beef dinner immediately following golf. Live and
silent auctions as well as raffle, mulligan and pin prizes
were announced during the dinner.
Beardmore Chevrolet sponsored a 2014 Chevrolet
Impala as a hole-in-one prize. Additional event sponsors
included American National Bank, Catholic Mutual
Group, General Service Bureau, Taco John’s, Dave and
Mary Alice Laferla, Dave’s Auto Body, Burns Family
Foundation, Ramm Construction, Weatherguard, Inc.,
Atchley Ford and the Feldhaus Family Foundation. Ice
cream bars were provided by Plaza Pontiac Buick GMC
and Mama’s Pizza sponsored the pre-dinner social hour. Save the Date!
26th Annual A. Len Leavitt
Swing with Pride Golf Open
Monday, August 3, 2015
See “All About Alums” page 12
for more golf participants
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16
RONCALLI CATHOLIC PRIDE | SEPTEMBER 2014
GRADUATION 2014 . . .
Above: Broderick James, Aautumn Jones-Evans, Abby
Kellen, Jack Matuella and Yusef McGruder
line up for the graduation processional.
Right: Class of 2014 Valedictorian Jacob Wolff with
Fr. Chi Igboanusi and Mr. Tim Mueting.
THE PRIDE CONTINUES
. . . 2014 graduates with RCHS alumni parents
Twenty of the Class of 2014 graduates were pre-destined to join the Crimson Pride.
These students had at least one parent who was a Roncalli Catholic alumni.
Taylor Rae
Anderson
Trevor James
Anderson
Ashley Renae
Campbell
Justin Riley
Dunn
Kevin Richard
Feldhaus
Joel Anderson
(1987)
Mischel (Frakes)
Anderson (1987)
Corrine (Wiedner)
Anderson (1984)
Tina (Ledger)
Campbell (1989)
Teresa (Nilius)
Dunn (1986)
Steven Feldhaus
(Rummel 1974)
Beth Feldhaus
(Honorary Alumna
2000)
RETURN TO TABLE OF CONTENTS
More PRIDE CONTINUES on page 17
RONCALLI CATHOLIC PRIDE | SEPTEMBER 2014
THE PRIDE CONTINUES
A r o und the School . . .
. . . 2014 graduates with RCHS alumni parents
continued from page 16
Collin Patrick
Griffith
Jared Matthew
Harter
Jonah Christian
Holzapfel
Andrea Lynn
Lahowetz
Mitchell David
Lovely
Michael Griffith
(1981)
Jennifer (Clark)
Griffith (1983)
Donald Harter
(1982)
Jeanne (Casey)
Holzapfel (1994)
Darlene (Lampe)
Lahowetz (1991)
David Lovely
(1981)
Matthew James
Morrison
Emily Kay
Muckey
Kierstyn Marie
Rief
Jessica Ivalyn
Ryckman
Maureen (McGill)
Morrison (1980)
Ted Muckey
(1980)
Stuart Rief (1989)
Robert Ryckman
(1981)
Malia LouiseKaimalino
Shirley
Kelly Rena
Soltys
Chloe Christine
Staley
Jacob James
Tyrakoski
Shelby Nicole
Vejvoda
Thaddeus
Charles Vogel
Mike Soltys (1984)
Melissa (Henn)
Staley (1995)
Paul Staley (1995)
Stacey (Hurt)
Tyrakoski (1994)
Rich Tyrakoski
(1996)
John Vejvoda
(1975)
Dennis Vogel
(Rummel 1970)
RETURN TO TABLE OF CONTENTS
Mark Shirley
(1980)
17
18
RONCALLI CATHOLIC PRIDE | SEPTEMBER 2014
RCHS Welcomes New Teachers and Staff
Joe Ankenbauer - Mathematics
Joe Ankenbauer spent the last 34 years teaching Mathematics and Information Technology
at Lewis Central in Council Bluffs. This year, he will be teaching Dual Credit Calculus,
Dual Credit Statistics, Honors Algebra II, and Algebra II at RCHS.
According to Mr. Ankenbauer, teaching, more specifically Math and Computer Programming,
was the “logical” choice for his career.
“I was fortunate to have some very good teachers who instilled a love of learning in me, and
I want to do the same for my students,” said Mr. Ankenbauer. “I chose Mathematics and
Computer Programming because I like the logic of how everything fits together.”
Known for creating a classroom that is both functional and comfortable for the students, Mr. Ankenbauer establishes
an easy rapport with his students, possibly through his love of current technology, computer games and comic books.
Originally from Ogden, Iowa, he earned both his BS and MS in School Computer Studies from Northwest Missouri
State, in 1980 and 1985, respectively. In addition to his IT interests, Mr. Ankenbauer enjoys reading and biking in his
free time. Married to wife Penny for 34 years, the couple has two children, Kyle (age 27) and Kacie (age 26).
Jennifer Clark - Business/ Future Business Leaders of America
Jennifer Clark is a self-proclaimed Air Force brat, moving about every 23 months for most
of her life. She graduated in the top 10% of her class at Bellevue West, earning a full-tuition
scholarship to Peru State College.
Ms. Clark says she simply always wanted to be a teacher because she fell in love with being
in the classroom and mentoring both peers and younger students.
Business was a logical choice because of her passion for the course work and the FBLA
program, which she hopes to grow at Roncalli Catholic. She is teaching Computer
Applications and Accounting.
“I firmly believe that even a basic understanding of business can change a student’s perspective on the nation and how
they, as individuals, affect the economy,” said Ms. Clark.
Ms. Clark is no stranger to the FBLA. As an active member of her chapter at Bellevue West, she attended the State
competition three times. She continued in the Phi Beta Lambda, the collegiate level of FBLA, earning first place in
Future Business Teacher at State and 7th place overall at the National Leadership Conference.
She is currently attending Peru State College for a Masters degree in Education with an emphasis in Curriculum and
Instruction. Prior to joining RCHS, Ms. Clark was a Business Teacher at Sterling Education, a private, Brethren satellite
school in Council Bluffs. More TEACHERS/STAFF on page 19
RETURN TO TABLE OF CONTENTS
PRIDE
is published by Roncalli Catholic High School, Omaha, NE.
©2014, All rights reserved.
Materials in PRIDE may be reproduced provided prior permission is obtained from the editor and credit is given.
RONCALLI CATHOLIC PRESIDENT: Jeffrey M. Dempsey
RONCALLI CATHOLIC PRESIDENT EMERITUS: Rev. Lloyd A. Gnirk
RONCALLI CATHOLIC PRINCIPAL: Paul Hans
EDITOR: Kristi Berger • PHOTOGRAPHY: Roncalli Catholic Staff and student Katelyn Harr.
RONCALLI CATHOLIC PRIDE | SEPTEMBER 2014
19
RCHS Welcomes New Teachers and Staff
TEACHERS/STAFF continued from page 18
Cory Hagenau - Social Studies/ Golf & Soccer Coach
Born and raised in Omaha, Cory Hagenau got “hooked” on history, politics and current
events when he was in high school. Inspired by a teacher, Mr. Hagenau says he knew that
his goal was to become a Social Studies teacher himself one day.
This year, he is reaching that goal. He earned his BA in Education from UNO in May and
he will teach Honors World History, World History, Psychology and Sociology at Roncalli
Catholic this year. Mr. Hagenau says he hopes to help each of his students achieve academic
success while getting them excited about school.
“I want my students to understand the relevance and importance of world history and seek
to continue their learning outside of the classroom” said Mr. Hagenau. He will also be sharing his love of golf with our students this year, as Mr. Hagenau will be coaching Girls Varsity Golf
as well as JV Boys Soccer.
A product of Catholic education, Mr. Hagenau attended Mary Our Queen and Creighton Prep. In his free time, Mr.
Hagenau likes to spend time with family and friends, playing golf and watching football. His favorite teams are the
Huskers and the Dallas Cowboys. He is engaged to be married in May 2015.
John Radke - Religion
John Radke believes Religion is the most important subject because it influences
everything a person does.
“I love discussing Theology and talking about faith and how it plays into someone’s life
journey,” said Mr. Radke. “It is important to not only know about, but act upon and use in
your everyday life.”
He says he enjoys working with youth and watching them grow, and being a teacher offers
the best opportunity to do so. This year he is teaching Paschal Mystery, Honors Paschal
Mystery, World Religions, Morality, and Jesus Christ in the Church.
Originally from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Mr. Radke earned a BA in Religious Studies and History from Cardinal Stritch
University in May. He has spent a great deal of time supporting youth ministries in various capacities. Most recently,
Mr. Radke worked at the Tyme Out Youth Ministry and Retreat Center in Stone Creek, WI and has supported the youth
ministry at St. Monica in Whitefish Bay, WI. This year he also participated in the Franciscan Leadership Pilgrimage to
Assisi and Rome through his school.
In his free time, Radke says he enjoys being active and playing a variety of sports (mainly basketball), spending time
with family and friends, playing board games, reading religious books, listening to music, and watching movies.
Kami Findall - Registrar/ Technology Coordinator
Kami Findall joins RCHS this time as our Registrar and Technology Coordinator. Formerly Roncalli Catholic’s Development Database Manager 2009-2012, Kami spent two
years at St. James/Seton as their Technology Specialist. Having never really left, she is an active volunteer with the Booster Club, chairing the Spirit
Wear and Uniform Clothing Committee. Kami and her husband, Chris, have three children,
Maggie (2012), and current students Brendan, a Senior and Collen, a Freshman. RETURN TO TABLE OF CONTENTS
20
RONCALLI CATHOLIC PRIDE | SEPTEMBER 2014
RCHS President Emeritus Fr. Lloyd Gnirk, Fr. Dan Kampschneider
(Pastor St. Vincent de Paul), Fr. Bob English (Pastor Mary Our Queen),
Archbishop George Lucas, Mr. Joseph Sund (Omaha Archdiocese seminarian
on pastoral year at St. Vincent de Paul Parish), Fr. Frank Baumert (Pastor
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton), Deacon Rick Niedergesses (Roncalli Deacon),
Fr. Tom Bauwen (Pastor St. Wenceslaus), Fr. Paul Hoesing (Omaha Archdiocese
Vocation Director), RCHS Chaplain Fr. Chi Igboanusi.
Rocalli Catholic Sophomore
Hender Oterga-Mendoza with
the Seraphic Sisters from
St. Peter, Sr. Lourdes and
Sr. Clara.
Archbishop Lucas Celebrates First All-School Mass on Aug. 21
On August 21, the Most Rev. George Lucas, Archbishop
of Omaha celebrated Roncalli Catholic’s first all-school
Mass of the new school year with more than 360 students,
50 faculty and staff, as well as several guest priests and
sisters, in the Notre Dame Auditorium.
As is tradition, the first Mass of the new school year is the
Mass of the Holy Spirit. During the homily, Archbishop
Lucas urged students to be open to the gifts of the
Holy Spirit, inviting Jesus to be the Lord of their lives
throughout the school year and beyond.
Along with Fr. Chi Igboanusi – RCHS Chaplain, and
Fr. Loyd Gnirk – RCHS President Emeritus, five visiting
priests also served as concelebrants at the Mass (see
photo above). Some Sisters from the following orders
also attended the August 21 Mass at RCHS: Notre Dame
Sisters, Ad Gentes Missionaries Sisters, Brides of the
Victorious Lamb, and Seraphis Sisters.
Archbishop Lucas, as well as the visiting priests and
sisters, stayed to have lunch with the students, faculty
and staff in the RCHS Bishop Sheehan Student Center.
In Memory of
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Sr. Agnes Marie Ostry, N.D. (Mechtilde) – Sept. 3, 1917 - Aug 25, 2014
According to teacher Kathy Slaight, Sr. Agnes Marie Ostry, N.D. was a positive presence at Roncalli Catholic.
“She always had a smile and a kind word for everyone,” said Mrs. Slaight.
Long-time teacher Bill Schlueter echoed the sentiment, saying “she was a very kind, warm person.”
Sr. Agnes spent 12 years (1974-1986) sharing her time and her smile with the students, faculty and staff at RCHS. More
specifically, she taught the Study Skills class and tutored students who needed extra help.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Anna Ostry; brothers, Joseph, Ivan, Emil Ostry; sisters, Lillian
Ostry, Sr. Mildred Ostry, N.D. (NDA '46). She is survived by her nieces, Sr. Marie Alice Ostry, ND, (NDA '62)
Sr. Rita Ostry, ND; (NDA '65), nephews, Joseph (Mary) Ostry, Larry (Simin) Ostry, Arthur Ostry; relatives; Notre
Dame Sisters and Associates.
RONCALLI CATHOLIC PRIDE | SEPTEMBER 2014
21
RCHS Honors Two
As Volunteers
of the Year
Ken Keefner
As a registered pharmacist, Dr. Ken Keefner (pictured
left) has practiced in community, hospital, and home care
environments as well as devoting 39 years to teaching.
He received a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy degree
from North Dakota State University and his Masters and
Doctor of Philosophy degrees from the University of
North Dakota.
Dr. Ken Keefner
Richard Stibor
Richard Stibor
Richard Stibor (pictured right) was born and raised on
a farm near Shelton, Neb. In 1959, he graduated from
Shelton Public High School and spent the next 23 years
serving in the United States Air Force.
During that time he learned electronic maintenance,
earned a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from Oklahoma
State University, became an officer, and earned an MS
in Electrical Engineering from Air Force Institute of
Technology. Stibor says the highlight of his U.S. Air
Force career was negotiating international agreements
for sharing voice communications between the North
Atlantic Treaty Organization’s Military Forces in Europe.
While in a St. Louis hospital practice he was the
pharmacist member of the institution’s Nutrition
Support Team. Utilizing the experience gathered from
his hospital nutrition support practice, he created an
independent home infusion pharmacy, which serviced
the St. Louis metropolitan area for six years.
Dr. Keefner held the rank of Associate Professor of
Pharmacy at Creighton University’s School of Pharmacy
and Health Professions. His professional teaching
responsibility was covering sterile and parenteral drug
products, or medicines delivered either intravenously or
through injections.
Upon retiring from the Air Force in 1984, Stibor joined
the private sector and held various positions in the field
of technology. Most notably, he served as the Director
of Information Systems for the Archdiocese of Omaha,
from 2001 until his retirement in 2007.
He was the director of the school’s Non-traditional
Doctor of Pharmacy Degree Pathway until March 2003.
This alternative for obtaining a Doctor of Pharmacy
degree began in 1994 and now claims more than 165
graduates.
Dr. Keefner successfully completed a
USWEST Academic Development and Technology
Fellowship appointment at Creighton University
during the 2000-01 academic year. He has chaired the
Curriculum and Admissions committees and has served
as Vice-Chair of the Department of Pharmacy Sciences.
For the past two years, Mr. Stibor has contributed his
time to the Ignatian Volunteer Corps, tutoring Math at
Roncalli Catholic, and helping countless students gain a
better understanding of the subject.
He retired from Creighton University’s School of
Pharmacy and Health Professions in 2011. Presently, he
volunteers as a tutor at Roncalli Catholic High School
through the Ignatian Volunteer Corps.
Sign Up Online to Volunteer at Roncalli Catholic
Simply go to i-Volunteer Online - http://roncallicatholic.i-volunteeronline.com
RETURN TO TABLE OF CONTENTS
22
RONCALLI CATHOLIC PRIDE | SEPTEMBER 2014
A r o und the School . . .
Dan Vacek Named Alumnus of the Year
Dan Vacek (1990) was honored as the 2014 Alumnus
of the year and spoke at Roncalli Catholic’s Senior
Breakfast on May 14.
Dan Vacek is a long-standing member of the Roncalli
Catholic family. In fact, you might say the Crimson
Pride is in his blood. His father, Rich Vacek, taught at
Rummel and then Roncalli Catholic 1967-1978, making it
the clear-cut choice for Dan and two of his three siblings.
His sister Susan graduated in 1986 and his brother Tom
graduated in 1987. The family tradition continues with
his first child, daughter Samantha, now a sophomore at
RCHS. Dan’s son, Drew Vacek, is in the 7th Grade at
Madonna School.
Above: Dan Vacek (1990) was honored as the
2014 Alumnus of the year. He is pictured with
his wife, Connie.
Click on ads throughout this issue and learn about these supporters
of Pride magazine and Roncalli Catholic High School.
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When Samantha was a freshman, he joined the RCHS
Booster Club and after a year of service he was elected
president of the group. According to Dan, he has always
been passionate about athletics so volunteering for the
Booster Club seemed like a good fit. In the year of his
presidency the group has concentrated on increasing
individual memberships, corporate sponsorships and
concession sales.
The Booster Club has more than
doubled revenue in all three of these areas.
Prior to RCHS, Dan attended St. James Seton School.
Following high school graduation, he attended and
played baseball for Iowa Western Community College
for two years.
In 1998, Dan began his career at Wildhorse Distributing
in Route Sales. He has been promoted within the
company several times over the years and, in 2007,
became the company’s General Manager overseeing the
sales and distribution facilities in Papillion, Nebraska,
Las Vegas, Nevada and Bristol, Virginia.
Dan and his wife, Connie, were married on 10/10/10
and are members of the St. James Catholic Church.
RETURN TO TABLE OF CONTENTS
FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION
Please contact Ron Goodrich
402.592.0823 • [email protected]
All advertising dollars are sent directly to
Roncalli Catholic High School
and help to underwrite the cost of this publication.
RONCALLI CATHOLIC PRIDE | SEPTEMBER 2014
23
A r o und the School . . .
Reverend Monsignor
James E. Gilg
Honorary Alumnus
of the Year
Msgr. Gilg Was Presented
with a Roncalli Catholic
Diploma During the 2014
Commencement Program
Jim Schneider, Msgr. Gilg and President Jeff
Dempsey at the May 18 Commencement
Program.
Reverend Monsignor James E. Gilg was honored with the
Honorary Alumnus of the Year Award, received a Roncalli
Catholic diploma and gave the keynote speech at the May
18 Commencement for the Class of 2014.
According to RCHS President Jeff Dempsey, Msgr. Gilg’s
overall dedication to Catholic education as well as his
on-going support of Roncalli Catholic, in specific, is
associated with the school’s continued success and why
he was chosen to receive the honor.
“Msgr. Gilg’s long-standing commitment to Catholic
education in Omaha and specifically to Roncalli Catholic
has been instrumental to our continued success,” said
Dempsey. “As president, his counsel and support in my
role has been boundless.”
nine years as principal at Father Flanagan High School;
and 15 years as president of Skutt High School, to name
just a few of his contributions.
Raised on a small ranch near Atkinson in the Nebraska
Sandhills, Msgr. Gilg attended a one-room grammer
school and graduated from St. Joseph’s High School. In
1962, he earned a B.A. degree from Conception Seminary
College in Missouri; and went on to get a Masters in
Educational Administration from the Catholic University
of America in Washington, D.C. in 1966. That same year,
he was also ordained a priest of the Archdiocese of Omaha.
In 1983, Msgr. Gilg earned a Masters in Urban Education
from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. He received
the Papal Honor of “Chaplain to His Holiness” with the
title of Monsignor in 2007.
May 2014 also marked the end of Msgr. Gilg’s 49-year
career in education, most recently serving as the Executive
Director for the Omaha Catholic Schools Consortium as
well as the Pastor at St. Mary Magdalene Catholic Church.
He will continue on in his role at the church.
Msgr. Gilg has also devoted much of his free time to
organizations that serve Education and the Catholic
faith. He was the co-founder of both the Christian Urban
Education Foundation in Omaha and Missouri Valley
Alternative Education Association; and has served on
numerous boards and committees throughout the years.
He is currently a member of the Urban Regional Board, the
Omaha Council of Priests and the Downtown Rotary Club.
Throughout his career, Msgr. Gilg’s ministry has been
to the benefit of young people and education. He has
been a foster parent to more than 30 children and has
held positions in Catholic schools throughout Nebraska
in addition to numerous church appointments. He spent
11 years serving as principal of Dominican High School;
RETURN TO TABLE OF CONTENTS
24
RONCALLI CATHOLIC PRIDE | SEPTEMBER 2014
A r o und the School . . .
Students at Roncalli Catholic worked on
campus garden beds last spring. From left
are senior Sam Nelson and sophomores
Faith Boer, Claire Forget and Jahid
Muhammed. The garden will be used
as a teaching tool for the school’s science
and culinary arts programs, and stress the
importance of good nutrition and efficient
use of the earth’s resources.
RCHS Student Garden
For his Eagle Scout project, RCHS
senior Jared Nigrin is also putting in a
prayer garden, with help from his family
(freshman Caleb and parents Joe and Lois),
in the adjacent space for quiet reflection
and prayer.
Left: Students Tony Evans and Amanda
Campbell working at the fireworks sale.
Right: Volunteer Dan Zack helps
replenish supplies in the fireworks tent.
Fourth Annual
Fireworks Sales
Raise Funds for
Roncalli Catholic Students
With the help of countless student and parent volunteers, Roncalli
Catholic’s fourth annual fireworks fundraiser brought in more than
the projected earnings for the ten-day event.
According to RCHS President Jeff Dempsey, the fundraiser is only
possible with the help of the countless volunteers and will do a lot
of good for the 350+ students of Roncalli Catholic.
“As always, our parent and student volunteers were absolutely
instrumental to the success of this event,” said Dempsey. “Our
school is blessed with unparalleled support from our community.”
Special thanks to the donors who supported
Roncalli Catholic High School
through the Omaha Gives! Campaign
May 21, 2014
The event ran June 25 through July 4 and was
set up in the parking lot of Dave’s Auto Body
off of I-680 and the Irvington Exit. Special
thanks to Mark Schumacher (‘82) for allowing
us to use his lot for the fundraiser.
Sponsored by the Omaha Community Foundation, donations made during the
Omaha Gives! campaign were eligible for matching funds, thus maximizing
donation dollars. This year Roncalli Catholic received 69 gifts totaling more
than $8,000, with more than $1,100 in matching funds added.
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RONCALLI CATHOLIC PRIDE | SEPTEMBER 2014
25
Around th e S c h o o l . . .
Roncalli Catholic’s Spring Play
In March students pulled off an epic fairy tale where worlds collide in Into the Woods
Jr. for the Roncalli Catholic Spring Play. The story followed a baker and his wife who
wish to have a child; Cinderella who wishes to attend the King’s festival; and Jack who
wishes his cow would give milk. When the baker and his wife learn that they cannot
have a child because of a witch’s curse, the two set off on a journey to break the curse.
Left: Caleb Nigrin
(behind the tree...)
Rachel Norris, and
Kyle Sweeney
Right: Caleb Nigrin,
Diamyn Franklin and
Hannah Ramsgard.
RCHS Kicks-Off Fall Sports Season
with Annual Hot Dog Feed and Ice Bucket Challenge
Left: RCHS teachers
Adam Snoza and Marshall Keough
get in on the ice-cold fun.
Right: RCHS Senior Maddy Dotzler
gets her wish – an ice-cold bucket
of water!
On Friday, August 22 the Roncalli
Catholic Booster Club hosted its
annual Hot Dog Feed to celebrate the
start of another school year and the
Fall sports season. Rain prevented
the 4:30 p.m. football scrimmage
but attendees enjoyed a volleyball
scrimmage in the gym as well as performances
by the RCHS Dance Squad and Cheerleaders
in the student center.
This year’s event also featured the popular
Ice Bucket Challenge that is sweeping the
internet to raise funds for ALS research.
Senior Maddy Dotzler started the challenge
at RCHS and organized it for 7 p.m. following
dinner. Money raised by the challenge was
directed to the Nebraska Coalition for Ethical
Research to support ethically sound ALS
research.
Above: Students participated in the Hot Dog Eating Contest at
the August 22 event.
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26
RONCALLI CATHOLIC PRIDE | SEPTEMBER 2014
A r ound the School . . .
RCHS Cheer Squad
Wins NCA Spirit
Award
The RCHS Cheer Squad attended the
National Cheerleading Association
(NCA) camp in Okoboji, Iowa in
June. In addition to various individual
and team accomplishments, they won
the NCA Spirit Award, which goes
to the squad that exemplifies the
utmost sportsmanship and
genuine spirit all week. Back Row Standing:
Captain Mady Hubbard,
Claire Murphy, Ava Macke,
Kaylee Bazer, and Captain
Brittany Fitzler.
Front Row Sitting:
Tara Whitfield, LaVina Bell,
Betsy Wilson, Sami Rosa,
and Jasmine Moore (not
pictured: Leonna Dalton)
RETURN TO TABLE OF CONTENTS
CRIMSON PRIDE - 2014 Varsity Football Schedule
DATE TIME OPPONENT
LOCATION
Aug 29
7 p.m.
Mount Michael Benedictine
Roncalli Catholic High School
Sept 5
7 p.m.
Nebraska City
Roncalli Catholic High School
Sept 12
7 p.m.
Platteview
Platteview High School
Sept 19
7 p.m.
Skutt Catholic High School
Roncalli Catholic High School
Sept 26
7 p.m.
Bennington
Roncalli Catholic High School
Oct 3
7 p.m.
Elkhorn Elkhorn High School
Oct 10
7 p.m.
Gross Catholic High School
Bryan High School
Oct 17
7 p.m.
Benson
Roncalli Catholic High School
Oct 24
7 p.m.
Ralston High School
Ralston High School
Varsity Football and Basketball games will be streaming live!
http://www.highschoolcube.com/schools/roncalli-catholic-high-school-omaha-nebraska
!
RONCALLI CATHOLIC PRIDE | SEPTEMBER 2014
27
A r o und the School . . .
RCHS Baseball Stadium Lights
On Friday, July 18 Roncalli Catholic’s American
Legion Baseball team played their first home
game under new stadium lights for the Class
B-3 Area tournament against Blair. The first ever
night game at home was made possible by Swain
Construction (also the team sponsor) and private
donors who raised the more than $170,000
necessary for the installation.
Click here to read the Omaha World-Herald “Prep
Zone” feature article for all of the details.
Right:
Representatives from the American
Legion were on-hand to kick-off the
game with a presentation of the colors
and the National Anthem.
RCHS is on High School Game Cube
Varsity Football and Basketball games will be streaming live!
Bookmark the link to catch all the games!
http://www.highschoolcube.com/schools/roncalli-catholic-high-school-omaha-nebraska
RETURN TO TABLE OF CONTENTS
28
RONCALLI CATHOLIC PRIDE | SEPTEMBER 2014
FALL SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS 2013
CROSS COUNTRY
Hannah Ramsgard (SR)
State Qualifier
FOOTBALL
Zak Bassett (SR)
Justin Dunn (SR)
Scott Flesher (SR)
Jonah Holzapfel (SR)
Derek Lee (SR)
Brendan Findall (JR)
Andrew Lamer (SO)
Pat Mucha (SO)
All-Conference & All-District (Honorable Mention)
All-Conference (1st Team), All-District (1st Team), All-State & All-Area (Honorable Mention)
All-Conference, All-State & All-Area (Honorable Mention), All-District (1st Team)
All-Conference (1st Team), All-District (1st Team),
All-State & All-Area (Honorable Mention)
All-Conference (1st Team), All-District (1st Team), All-State & All-Area (Honorable Mention)
All-Conference & All-District (Honorable Mention)
All-Conference & All-District (Honorable Mention)
All-Conference & All-District (Honorable Mention)
GIRLS GOLF
Raluca Maiefski (JR)
State Qualifier & District Champion, All-Conference (1st Team)
BOYS TENNIS
Trevor Anderson (SR)
Thad Vogel (SR)
All-Conference (1st Team) (#2 Doubles Champion)
All-Conference (1st Team) (#2 Doubles Champion)
SOFTBALL
Rachel Norris (JR)
Kaitlyn Rief (SO)
All-Conference (Honorable Mention)
All-Conference (Honorable Mention)
VOLLEYBALL
Abby Goetz (SR)
Bailey Preston (SR)
Maddie Dotzler (JR)
Emma Heldt (JR)
All-Conference (1st Team), All-State & All-Area (Honorable Mention)
All-State, All-Area & All-Conference (Honorable Mention)
All-State, All-Area & All-Conference (Honorable Mention)
All-State, All-Area & All-Conference (Honorable Mention)
WINTER SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS 2013-2014
BOYS BASKETBALL
Jody Bryant (SR)
Derek Lee (SR)
Cole Meister (JR)
All-Conference (1st Team), All-State & All-Area (Honorable Mention)
All-State, All-Area & All-Conference (Honorable Mention)
All-State, All-Area & All-Conference (Honorable Mention)
GIRLS BASKETBALL
Hannah Knight (SR)
Maddie Dotzler (JR)
Maribeth Hall (SO)
Cami Schott (SO)
Noelle Agenor (FR)
All-State, All-Area & All-Conference (Honorable Mention)
All-State, All-Area & All-Conference (Honorable Mention)
All-Conference (Honorable Mention)
All-Conference (Honorable Mention)
All-Conference (Honorable Mention)
SWIMMING
Ryan Gunder (SR)
Brian Bosn (JR)
Jared Nigrin (JR)
Kyle Stevens (JR)
Katy Anielak (JR)
Hannah Leddy (SO)
State Qualifier 50 Free, 100 Free, 200 MR & 400 FR
All-Conference (1st Team), RCC Champion in the 50 Free & 400 FR
State Qualifier in the 200 Free, 500 Free, 200 FR & 200 MR
All-Conference (1st Team), RCC Champion in the 200 Free & 400 FR
State Qualifier in the 200 FR
State Qualifier in 200 FR, 200 MR & 400 FR, All-Conference (1st Team), RCC Champion 400 FR
State Qualifier in the 200 MR
State Qualifier in the 200 MR
WRESTLING
KiAirre Smith (SR)
State Qualifier
more on page 29
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RONCALLI CATHOLIC PRIDE | SEPTEMBER 2014
continued from page 28
29
SPRING SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS 2014
BASEBALL
Alec Bohm (JR)
Jake Tyrakoski (SR)
Tyler Crawford (JR)
Sam Oehm (JR)
Zach Soliday (JR)
All-Conference (1st Team), All-Nebraska, All-Class (1st Team)
All-Conference (1st Team)
All-Conference (1st Team)
All-Conference (Honorable Mention)
All-Conference (Honorable Mention)
BOYS GOLF
Collin Griffith (SR)
Cole Meister (JR)
State Qualifier
State Qualifier, All-Conference (1st Team)
BOYS SOCCER
Kevin Feldhaus (SR)
Jack Matuella (SR)
Eric Nay (SO)
Daniel Mendick (FR)
All-Conference (Honorable Mention)
All-Conference (Honorable Mention)
All-Conference (Honorable Mention)
All-Conference (Honorable Mention)
GIRLS SOCCER
Hannah Knight (SR)
Bailey Preston (SR)
Maddie Dotzler (JR)
Becca Weber (JR)
Emily Guinn (SO)
Maribeth Hall (SO)
Alex Mausbach (FR)
All-Conference (1st Team), All-State (Honorable Mention)
All-Conference (Honorable Mention)
All-Conference (Honorable Mention)
All-Conference (Honorable Mention)
All-Conference (Honorable Mention)
All-Conference (Honorable Mention)
All-Conference & All State (Honorable Mention)
BOYS TRACK
Caleb Petersen (SR)
State Qualifier in the 1600m
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