No Debate - Strake Jesuit
Transcription
No Debate - Strake Jesuit
Spring 2006 Cover.qxp 3/13/2006 10:16 AM Page 1 Spring 2006 the CHRONICLE OF STRAKE JESUIT COLLEGE PREPARATORY I N T H I S I S S U E No Debate Jesuit Debate Team Earns Nation's Top Ranking, Senior Wins State Title Houston, Texas Spring_inside_cover.qxp 3/13/2006 10:51 AM Page 1 Fr. Mark Thibodeaux, SJ has become known at Jesuit for his moving homilies. None were more touching than the one he offered at the Mass of the Resurrection for Pope John Paul ll in April, 2005. Table of Contents Features Counselor, Comforter, Healer, Friend p. 4 Debater Wins State, Team Number One in Nation p. 8 Departments President’s Message 3 School News 8 - 10 Development 11 - 13 Principal's Perspective 16 Athletics 18 - 19 A View from the Art Museum 20 Armchair Reflections 21 Alumni News 22 - 24 Class Notes 25 - 27 In Memoriam 27 Births 27 By George 29 THE COVER: Senior Andy Werner (center with plaque), who won the State Debate Title, with his teammates who earned the number one ranking in the nation. Spring 2006 the Editor Rick Rivers, Director of Communications CHRONICLE OF STRAKE JESUIT COLLEGE PREPARATORY Contributors Fr. Daniel K. Lahart, SJ Mr. Richard Nevle Mrs. Ellen Orseck Fr. Mark Thibodeaux, SJ The Chronicle is published four times a year by the Development Office of Strake Jesuit College Preparatory, Houston, Texas President Fr. Daniel K. Lahart, SJ Principal Richard Nevle Director of Development N.J. Santarcangelo ‘67 Spring_inside_cover.qxp 3/13/2006 10:51 AM Page 1 Fr. Mark Thibodeaux, SJ has become known at Jesuit for his moving homilies. None were more touching than the one he offered at the Mass of the Resurrection for Pope John Paul ll in April, 2005. Table of Contents Features Counselor, Comforter, Healer, Friend p. 4 Debater Wins State, Team Number One in Nation p. 8 Departments President’s Message 3 School News 8 - 10 Development 11 - 13 Principal's Perspective 16 Athletics 18 - 19 A View from the Art Museum 20 Armchair Reflections 21 Alumni News 22 - 24 Class Notes 25 - 27 In Memoriam 27 Births 27 By George 29 THE COVER: Senior Andy Werner (center with plaque), who won the State Debate Title, with his teammates who earned the number one ranking in the nation. Spring 2006 the Editor Rick Rivers, Director of Communications CHRONICLE OF STRAKE JESUIT COLLEGE PREPARATORY Contributors Fr. Daniel K. Lahart, SJ Mr. Richard Nevle Mrs. Ellen Orseck Fr. Mark Thibodeaux, SJ The Chronicle is published four times a year by the Development Office of Strake Jesuit College Preparatory, Houston, Texas President Fr. Daniel K. Lahart, SJ Principal Richard Nevle Director of Development N.J. Santarcangelo ‘67 Spring 2006.qxp 3/15/2006 11:09 AM Page 2 3/15/2006 President’s Message Spring 2006.qxp 11:09 AM Page 3 Unlike September, January began quietly. No longer are the evening hours filled with New Orleans students marching between classes, having lunch at dinnertime, or beginning their school week on Sunday. Indeed, all but five of our over four hundred New Orleans students have returned to their home city. But I continue to get notes of thanks from families who found a safe haven in Houston and at Strake Jesuit. Yet the campus is never wholly quiet. Construction on our new Athletic Center continues to make wonderful progress. All of the exterior walls are up, the roofs are being raised, and work is beginning on the interiors. Fr. Daniel K. Lahart, SJ President The Admissions Office has been busy processing the largest number of applicants in the school's history. By now, letters have been mailed. More applicants mean more disappointed students and families, but as I mentioned in my President's Dinner speech in February, we strive to maintain a delicate balance between rigorous academics and a diverse student body. The Strake Jesuit experience is much better because of the different economic, racial, geographic and religious backgrounds of our students. In keeping this balance, we remain committed to our Catholic tradition. Perhaps the turbulence of this semester has been most felt, not by construction or the regular rhythm of the school year, but by the number of tragedies that our community has had to deal with. In the month of February we lost a member of the class of 2008 to a life-long battle with cancer as well as members of the class of 1999,2002, and 2003 (see page 27). Nothing is more difficult than the loss of life at an early age. These tragedies have touched our community very deeply. It is, however, in these difficult moments that our community is strongest. The generous outpouring of support from our families is humbling. One of the most important responses that we can have is prayer. Prayer is a constant in our community, but especially during times of crisis. Prayer in the Jesuit Community, at masses, on the e-mail prayer line, on retreat, in assurances from one to another, these are signs of the depth of our spiritual nature in this community and a distinguishing characteristic of who we are as a school. Prayer is powerful. When others see us pray, they feel more free to pray themselves. One of chief pray-ers in this community during the last five years has been Fr. Thibodeaux, School Chaplain and director of Pastoral Ministry. As he finishes his time with us and prepares to go off to his Tertianship (the final part of Jesuit training), we thank him for leading us so often to prayer. As difficult as moments of life and death can be for us, we find assurance of the Lord's care for us in and through prayer. We are grateful for the Lord leading us at difficult times, and we are grateful to members of our community - especially Fr. Thibodeaux - for infusing us with life-giving prayer. Be assured of my prayers for you and your families during this holy season of Lent. May the Lord gives us the strength to remain close to Him during both the good and difficult times in our lives. Please pray for our mission here Strake Jesuit College Preparatory. www.strakejesuit.org The Chronicle 3 Spring 2006.qxp 3/15/2006 11:09 AM Page 4 counselor, comforter, healer, friend. The Strake Jesuit community prepares to bid farewell to school chaplain, Fr. Mark Thibodeaux, SJ. It is simply a fact that the life of a young Jesuit priest is, By that measure, the five short years that Fr. Mark by definition, a somewhat nomadic lifestyle. While still in their Thibodeaux has served at Strake Jesuit could have filled a life- religious development, they move from assignment to assign- time. While he has certainly touched the lives of any number ment. Adding to what can be a difficult series of frequent tran- of students - both in class and in his ministry, he has equally sitions is the fact that, in many cases, they remain at one impacted the lives of the faculty, staff, and even parents who assignment long enough to establish close ties. They can have come to know and love him. make friends and develop close relationships with co-workers, The spring semester at Strake Jesuit is his last (at least both priest and lay. All of which makes the next move that for now) as he prepares to move on to his next journey of faith. much more trying. It could be in Africa, though at press time he was still unsure. So, how do you measure the time of one priest - one man In an effort to provide a glimpse of the wide range of lives with- during one of these assignments? While the calendar is an in the school community that Fr. Thibodeaux has impacted, we absolute and clinical gauge, for these men a more accurate have asked several of the members of the community to tell in measurement would be in the lives they touch and the lives their own words what 'Thibs' has meant to them. they impact. 4 Spring 2006 www.strakejesuit.org Spring 2006.qxp 3/15/2006 11:09 AM Page 5 this, no man than ater love has re "G , id sa s ." Jesu for his friends wn one's life n life to ow s hi than to lay do n w s lain do ha ux ea od ib Mark Th ory of God. the greater gl r fo fe li is a great a ve li lf with others se s e' on e ar ily durTo openly sh with our fam ared himself sh s ha ite sure k qu ar M gift. I'm not Strake Jesuit. at re the he e m r ti ing his e a membe of but he becam , m ho w the d in te eekends who adop for dinner, w re he d: ol n eh day mor Badum hous rthdays. Sun bi d an , as m st e we doing country, Chri ark, "What ar M om fr ll ca ga e we ing can brin ply, "What ar Typically I re " s? as M Even in the y " sa t! after I g breakfas n ki oo "C , er ve. k's answ municates lo doing?" Mar of life, he com ts en om d does. m an e in all he is most routin t within him ri Sp y rough ol Th H e ost level. We see th ved at its utm li ty li rtua it m ir sp d and co fo He embodies en us, console iv rg fo , s us ay d w s love m (it al him Jesus ha words of wisdo s hi to ed er en ve list ly in ev y ed us. We ha of us personal ch ea r fo g n somethi ose silly or (oh my, th seems there is sense of hum s hi d (often re er de n ht s laug homily.), po kes!), heard hi jo ux ea od fe ib tears we lt Boudreaux-Th s tears (often hi en se , lf) se m and we have directed at hi cent to shed), ti re e er w t bu arts, inside our he for it. er sus' love on tt be been the ndprint of Je ha n ow ry ve your You have left you, r, and we love ve re our hearts fo the r fo d We thank Go Father Thibs. gift of you. m Lee Ann Badu el ‘09 '05 and Micha ul Pa of r he ot M Fr. Thibodeaux and Annie Badum. I firmly believe th at God places peop le in our life at certain times for certain reasons. Th is has truly been th case with Fr. Mark e Thibodeaux S.J. When Fr. Thibs (a is known around s he campus) came to Strake Jesuit in August of 2001 he not only made hi mself at home he he quickly found re, his way into my he art. Our friendshi has grown and bl p ossomed over the years. Of course didn't hurt that it we had some thin gs in common - a for gumbo, crawfis love h, zydeco and Lo uisiana. We have laughed together , cried a lot togeth er and shared moments of grace that will always be special memories for me. Yes, God pla ced Mark Thibod ea ux in my life for reason. The reason a why is because Go d loves me and he used Mark Thibod eaux to show me. Cyndi Llorens Administrative As sistant to the Prin cipal www.strakejesuit.org The Chronicle 5 Spring 2006.qxp 3/15/2006 11:10 AM Page 6 Since Fr. Thibodeaux is suc h a wonderful story teller, I thought I would start by tell ing a story about him. Sev era l years ago my Theresian's group was attending a silent retr eat at The Villa de Matel in Houston . I asked Fr. Thibodeaux to celebrate mass. He got lost and forg ot the phone number, not that there was anyone there to answe r a phone. We were all sitt ing in the chapel. When he did arrive , more than an hour late, he was extremely embarrassed by the situation. What he pro bab ly didn't realize was that it was per fect. The time spent sitting in that magnificent chapel was an extremely peaceful and mo ving experience for all of us. His arr ival with his infectious smi le, spirituality, and crazy Cajun wit was like the grand finale of a beautiful event. You could see the n as you do every day, God 's han d in everything he does. He has a wonderful gift wit h words through his books and through his speech. He alw ays seems to be speaking dir ect ly to me. His spirituality has als o entered my home throug h my sons Austin ('04) and William ('06). We all admire him for tak ing the gifts that God has given him and used them in suc h a powerful way. He has inspired us to better use our own gift s that He has given us. I wish you all the best as you move forth to touch more lives. I know my life is better because Mark Thibodeaux has touched mine. Margie Todd Mother of Austin ‘04 and William ‘06 Oh, and remember the foil ed attempt at wrapping the school. I still laugh at Aus tin's remark, "Man, Fr. Thibs can run fast!" I begin Strake Jesuit four years at y m er ov on ct fle ined am g As I sit and re hips I have ga ds n ie om fr us tremendo p started in ro to realize the ant friendshi rt po im e n ux O Thibodea . d faculty. with Fr. Mark 1 classmates an gy lo eo Th e first time I an year for priest and th a h 406 my freshm it w s as cl d rake Jesuit first time I ha tion for my St da This was the un fo a e ar a casulogy and both y turned into kl ic qu ux studied Theo ea ibod e formal Fr. Th . He became a experience. Th ew and grew gr p hi t ds n ie d our fr the years, bu forgiver over al Fr. Thibs an a d an , er d. al he ible frien I counselor, a me an incred co be s ha he tly e incredmost importan a witness to th en be ve ha to and blessed s, to retreats, have been so ne. From Mas do s ha rist he Ch y at he is trul ible work th hing he does yt er ev in g n ts di 's stan service projec m. Whether he hi ow kn to e m go to for all who co wn students to l hunting do al H an his office, or in M u e outsid down with yo g in tt si or ings to be Vocation even ars are going course, his te of s, ye ory I d em an ar. One m his smile Jesuit next ye ke ra St d ai n Armch r missed arou from his book is go I re he yw e has will take ever Reach God". H for God is to ch ea R o s and I owe "T ay w c, Mysti so many in d Go r fo h reac a teacher, allowed me to edible years as cr in e es th r uch fo Fr. Thibs so m iend. fr d healer, an n ‘06 Kelly Halaszy Kelly Halaszyn ‘06 and Fr. Thibodeaux. 6 Spring 2006 www.strakejesuit.org Spring 2006.qxp 3/15/2006 11:10 AM Page 7 a nt my high school years at I was raised Catholic, spe ss ma ed end att school, and have certain Jesuit college prep a n bee e s a child. Priests hav on most Sundays since I wa arispiritual mentors, disciplin part of my life as teachers, of that history, never before ans, and sages. Despite all ard nd" - until Father Mark Edw could I call a priest "my frie s ion sat ver long-winded con Thibodeaux. We have had cones, and fears. Some of the hop about our jobs, interests, our ce on tough, long runs on versations have taken pla e taken ng course, and others hav favorite marathon-traini ask his house or mine. I often place over a good meal at es tim se the ice, but it's not at Mark Thibodeaux for adv s that go ndship. Instead, on the day that I most value our frie n the eve ore first period is over or from ordinary to crazy bef ments, difficult in a matter of mo runs that go from easy to king a Mark has a knack for ma d that wor d joke or saying a kin ng to goi keeps my spirit up. I'm miss not having my friend around. Trip Norkus '96 Jesuit Faculty Member Fr. Thibodeaux performed the wedding ceremony this past January when Trip Norkus ‘96 married his wife, Lizzie. Within the two an d a half years that I have known Fa Thibodeaux, he ha ther s changed roles fro m a priest to a fri brother. He has be end to a en my confessor, my counselor, an lenger. d my chalOn the first day I met him, I was a timid, quiet, and sophomore who as shy ked him if I coul d go to confession. De my awkward attit spite ude, his warm sm ile made me feel and I could tell hi welcomed s love was genuin e. Since that day in mid December of 2003, a friendshi grown between us p has . The memories wi ll be all we have left af my graduation an ter d his re-assignmen t. I have spent so days in the PMC eit m any her working on Ka iros, talking abou fusing situations t con, or just joking ar ound with him. When most people think of Father Th ibodeaux, the fir thoughts that com st e to mind are "em otional" and "tear yes, we all remem s." And ber those powerfu l and tearful hom he gave during hi ili es that s time at Strake Je suit. Now, faced with m y final year at Je suit, I have starte ing back on these d lookfour years. Thibod eaux has been a influence in my lif bi g e since I met him . He has challen spiritually, emotio ge d me nally, and intellec tually. Though many wi ll remember Thib odeaux by the tea by his hard work rs, others , still others by hi s caring talks, I wi remember Father ll by his smile. That same smile, from day in mid Decem that ber of sophomore year, still greets m today when I wa e lk in his office - th at same smile full passion and love of com. Chris Harding ‘06 EDITOR'S NOTE TO THIBS: In your new journey, at those times when it seems the challenges are just too great, remember that old saying, "it's like stealing huano from a blind man." www.strakejesuit.org The Chronicle 7 3/15/2006 school news Spring 2006.qxp 11:10 AM Page 8 SCHOOL NEWS Jesuit Artists Claim Top Awards Jesuit seniors Yang Jiang and Corey Cleary claimed top awards at the Scholastic Art Competition. The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards is a national competition founded in the 1920's to honor young people who have dedicated themselves to excellence in writing and in the visual arts. The Awards strive to foster the confidence of young artists and writers and invite them to broaden their creative horizons. At the regional level, Harris County Department of Education (HCDE) sponsors The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards for students in grades 7-12 in public and private schools in Harris County. Yang Jiang won two gold keys for his self portrait and his giant painting of the hands and his work will go onto compete on a National Level. Corey Cleary won a silver key for his graphite drawing which was displayed at a reception in Houston. Corey Cleary’s graphite drawing (far left) and Yang Jiang’s oil on canvas self-portrait (near left) were winners at the Houston Scholastic Art Competition. Debater Wins State Title, Team Achieves #1 National Ranking Tournament Archer standing individual debaters were senior history of the school, Strake School for Girls in Los Angeles Shane O'Neal, juniors Joseph Clifton and Jesuit has won a state title in early January. Brian Kwik, and sophomores Phillip For the first time in the at the in debate. At the state tour- "I am very proud of nament held March 2-4, each of and every one of the Jesuit senior Andy Werner boys on the team," remarked won the state title while jun- Jesuit Debate ior Patrick Mahoney finish- Head Coach ing 5th. On the team side, Jerry Crist. "They have the Debate Team claimed the No. 1 spot in the nation in the latest (at press time) rank- State debate champion Andy Werner. worked very hard and deserve suc- ings from nationaldebaterankings.com. The cess. The number one rank- Jesuit squad earned the top ranking ing is the culmination of through a series of outstanding perform- months of preparation and ances in national debate competitions, work including wins at such prestigious events debate camp at UCLA last as the University of Texas Longhorn July and will not end until Classic held in early December, the Edie nationals in June." that began with Holiday Classic at the Blake School in In addition to Werner Minneapolis, and the Victory Briefs and Mahoney, other out- 8 Spring 2006 www.strakejesuit.org Wiggins and David Donatti. 3/15/2006 11:10 AM Page 9 school news Spring 2006.qxp SCHOOL NEWS Men for Others Stars Shine Bright The Jesuit mantra of building Men for Others was seldom more evident than in the last few months when a host of Jesuit students put those words into action. Highlighted below are a few of those notable instances. $5,000 and as much food and clothing as SENIOR RECEIVES PRESIDENT'S VOLUNTEER SERVICE AWARD he could handle, he quickly reached and surpassed that In February, Jesuit senior Kelly Halaszyn received the President's ATHLETIC TEAMS TAKE TIME TO SERVE initial Two groups of Fighting Crusaders t a r g e t . took time out of their busy school, prac- When tice, and competition schedule to serve all Volunteer Service Award. The award is was said presented and done, Tennis coach Chuck Kenny gathered in conjunction with the some of Houston's less fortunate. President's Council on Service and Civic he had up 15 of his players early one recent Participation and the Prudential Spirit of raised over Sunday morning and headed to Loaves Community $12,000 and and Fishes soup kitchen (below). Aside Service Awards. delivered from some clothing donations which were It two full truck brought along, the team also brought Americans of all loads of donations of food and clothing to salad makings and served some 275 of ages who volun- the Salvation Army. Houston's homeless. It marked the third 'recognizes teer a significant "Michael is an extraordinary young amount of their man," stated Jincy Kunnacherry with The time Salvation Army. "He is an inspiration to us to serve their communi- and to other youth and we salute him." ties and their country.' Kelly was recognized for his extensive community service work at Jesuit including two summers at SHINE Catholic JESUIT STUDENT HONORED AS YOUTH VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR Work Camp, Camp Spike 'n' Wave for the Epilepsy Foundation of Southeast Texas Jesuit senior Albert Mancillas year that the Jesuit netters have made the excursion. and many others. In all, he earned almost describes himself as an “average teenag- The Swimming Team (below) fol- three times the minimum 100 hours of er who just happens to enjoy helping oth- lowed suit when they gathered together community service required by the school ers any way he can.” If that sounds like a under the direction of coaches Bob Horn for graduation. STUDENT AIDS HURRICANE VICTIMS THROUGH THE SALVATION ARMY Man for Others, the people at Casa de and Jim Marvin and headed to the Star of Esperanza must agree as they recently Hope Mission where the Crusaders recognized Albert as their Youth Volunteer served the mission's clients. of the Year. Casa Esperanza de is a safe place for chilSoon after Hurricane Katrina struck dren in crisis due to the Gulf Coast last August, Jesuit sopho- abuse, neglect or more Michael Skelton contacted The the effects of HIV. It Salvation Army. He asked if he could do provides residential, an Eagle Scout Project for the organiza- medical and psy- tion by collecting food, clothing and donations to assist them in their support of hur- chological care according to the needs of each child. ricane victims. Naturally the answer was 'yes.' Beginning with a goal of raising www.strakejesuit.org The Chronicle 9 3/15/2006 school news Spring 2006.qxp 11:10 AM Page 10 SCHOOL NEWS Jesuit Musicians Earn All-State Honors Fr. Leininger Recognized with Teaching Award A total of eight Strake Jesuit band and three orchestra mem- Fr. J.B. Leininger, SJ was recognized this spring, along with bers were selected to the 2006 Texas Private School Music five other Houston area teachers, with a Crystal Award. Each year Educators Association's All-State Band and Orchestra. The All- the Spring Branch Education Foundation and the Houston State Band consists of 96 exceptionally talented musicians and the Chronicle combine to present the award which recognizes six out- All-State Orchestra numbers 60. The Jesuit musicians were select- standing teachers of grades kindergarten through 12th grade. The ed by audition from a pool of outstanding private high school talent other honorees were officially recognized at a awards dinner in across the great state of Texas. These students performed at the early February at the Hilton TPSMEA All-State Concert in San Antonio Saturday, January 29 at Houston Post Oak. Fr. Leininger began 7:00 PM in the Scottish Rite Hall. teaching in 1964 at Jesuit High School New Orleans and then went on to teach at Dallas Jesuit from 1970 to 1972. He moved to Strake Jesuit in 1972 and has been at the school since. Jesuit Spirit Store Now Online You can now buy your favorite Jesuit gear - tee shirts, sweatshirts, caps, gifts, and much more - from your computer. Top: Texas Private School All-State Band Members (left to right) Collin Roach, Alex Diaz, Justin Chiang, Brian Le, Armand Ayeras, Daniel Miller, Elliott Luckett, and Brian Elmer with Band Director Robert Peri. Middle: Texas Private School All-State Orchestra members (left to right) Kenneth Parreno and Martin Bae with Orchestra Director Guillermo Hernandez-Ching In March the online version of the school's Spirit Store was launched and can be accessed directly from the school web site. A full range of items are available and credit card purchases are made on a secure server. Shipping can also be arranged for and paid online so that all your Jesuit gear will show up at your doorstep. Bottom: Mr. Hernandez-Ching with Texas All-State Orchestra member Sam Kelder. 10 Spring 2006 www.strakejesuit.org 3/15/2006 11:10 AM Page 11 development Spring 2006.qxp DEVELOPMENT Annual President’s Dinner Draws Record Crowd to New Venue One of the highlight events of the spring season moved to a new location this year in order to accommodate an ever-growing crowd. The Annual President’s Dinner, held on February 12, moved to its new venue at the prestigious Houstonian Hotel just in time as a record 400-plus members of the Jesuit community were in attendance. Held each year to thank and recognize the school’s many benefactors, the attendees were treated to performances by an ensemble of the Strake Jesuit Orchestra and The Triple Trio as well to remarks by school President Fr. Daniel Lahart, SJ. Fr. Lahart opened his remarks by explaining that the school community had reason to celebrate - especially in light of the entire community’s response to the members of the Jesuit High School New Orleans students and families displaced by Hurricane Katrina. He then went on to specifically thank the chairs of the school’s captial campaign and annual Top left: Fr. Daniel Lahart, SJ remarks on the state of the school and thanks the benefactors Top right: A record crowd enjoyed the special night at a new venue, The Houstonian Hotel. Bottom: The Triple Trio serenade Mrs. Nancy Nevle. drives. Namely he recognized Bob and Louise Parsley and Don and Ellie Knauss The Greater Glory Campaign, George Crawford from Capital ified students who didn't need any finan- ments, cial aid at all. We could start recruiting accomplishments, increasing numbers of athletic and extra-curricular and 8th graders who are top athletes and applicants, successful annual drives and Cynthia Conrad-Bayer from the Annual promise them spaces on teams or schol- great progress on The Greater Glory. But Parents Drive, Bill Schneidau ‘80 from arships and fill their young heads with our chief reason to celebrate is that we the Annual Alumni Drive, and Michael visions of grandeur. “ are all part of something larger than our- “We could do many things differently selves. Together we are helping to shape He then explained why he had and still fill our freshman class and Strake lives, and in turn helping to shape the recently commented that the biggest Jesuit would be a very good school. And future. We celebrate because the mission challenge the school faced was manag- we would lose our soul.” of Strake Jesuit College Preparatory is Kerley from the Annual Faculty Drive. ing its success. Without a mandate to “Strake Jesuit will continue to accept alive and is guarded not just by the Jesuit increase enrollment, increased demand diverse classes, not every student will be Community, but also by over a hundred pressures the school to change. in the top percentiles on the entrance dedicated men and women of our faculty, “We could begin to fill our freshman exam, not every student will be a star ath- not to mention our parents and alumni class with boys who all tested in the top lete or star debater, not every student will who believe with all their hearts that what percentiles on the entrance exam,” he be Catholic and come from a Catholic we do each day is important. We cele- explained. “We could select only those school, and not every student will have brate because our future is bright, and the students who come from our traditional parents who can afford our full tuition.” challenges of this year and the years feeder schools, or only boys who are He concluded that “we have many We could overcome endow- reasons to celebrate tonight. A success- ment issues by filling the class with qual- ful Second Session, academic achieve- Catholic. www.strakejesuit.org ahead neither deter us nor frighten us.” The Chronicle 11 3/15/2006 development Spring 2006.qxp 11:10 AM Page 12 DEVELOPMENT Great The Greater Glory: Athletic Center Complex Taking Shape progress has continued on the new Athletic Center Complex under construction as a part of The Greater Glory Capital Campaign. By early March the walls and roofs of the two structures - the competition gymnasium and the Field House facility - were in place. From the time the first section of tilt wall went up in late January, the project went quickly. A large part of the work on the two structures will now move to within the walls and, thus, be much less visible. However, there are two other outdoor aspects to the project that will be in plain view - namely the outdoor competition swimming pool, which will be located just west of the Field House, and the four-lighted tennis courts, wich be constructed on the far west edge of the site. The swimming pool will be the new home of the Jesuit Swimming and Water Polo teams while the tennis courts will host the Crusaders Tennis Team. Anticipated to be completed by the start of school next year, the new facility will provide the large majority of the students that participate in athletics with a home unmatched in the area. The new competition gym, which will be the home of the basketball team, will seat 2,400. In addition, its size will allow commencement exercises to return to campus beginning with the Class of 2007. The Field House, which stands just west of the gymnasium, will feature three full-sized practice courts. The building will also have a new exercise room with state-of-the-art equipment, locker rooms for all sports, coaches offices, a new training room and conference room. The completion of the facility will make way for planning and work to begin on the next phase of the strategic plan. Under the last phase, the Smith Gymnasium building will remain but will be converted to a dining hall. Once that renovation is complete, the existing cafeteria and foyer area will be replaced by a new structure - a Student Activity Center. The vision is that this new building will serve as the center of student life on campus. 12 Spring 2006 Top: The new Athletic Center under construction as of early March with a rendering of how the new facility will look from the main parking lot. Middle: Artist rendering of the four lighted tennis courts which will be home for the Tennis Team Bottom: Rendering of the outdoor competition pool which will give the Swimming and Water Polo teams an on campus home for the first time in school history. www.strakejesuit.org 3/15/2006 11:10 AM Page 13 development Spring 2006.qxp DEVELOPMENT 2006 Fantasy Auction an Evening of Fun On Saturday, April 22, The 26th music and fine dining as your group is Annual Strake Jesuit Fantasy Auction, treated to a private tour through the Beneath the Tuscan Sun, will take place Strake Jesuit Art Collection by world at the beautiful Marriott Town Square, in renowned collector, Frank Ribelin? Sugar Land. There may still be time to There’s also a tremendous selection of join in the fun! dinners and get-togethers. Enjoy a If you love the excitement of the auc- Hawaiian Luau, a gourmet lobster din- tion but are a little leery of the bidding, ner, a “Tinis & Tapas” fiesta, or an we have the perfect choice for you. New evening of friendly competition on the this year is an expanded selection of “Sign-up” parties. Some “Ultimate Scavenger Hunt”. The dates for most of these parties gatherings are limited to just a few participants, while others will have already been set, so you might want to bring your calen- accommodate 100 or more, so make sure that you are one of dar to check availability. the first to put your name on the list and the package is yours! For those of you who still crave the thrill of having that win- A great variety of offerings assures that there will be something ning bid, you will be delighted with the superb assortment of to interest nearly everyone. items in the live, big board and silent auctions. April 22 is just Ladies, how about a shop-til-you-drop excursion to the Biannual Antiques Weekend in Round Top, a quiet overnight around the corner, so get your friends together, purchase your tickets, or your table, and plan for a wonderful evening. For more information or to find out how you can still be a part retreat to the San Bernard River, or an afternoon of fun with friends learning the art of tamale making? Dads, pair up with of the evening, your sons and take on other teams during a night of poker fun, 713.490.8107 or at [email protected], or Lou Braun, complete with celebrity dealers (SJ coaches), a buffet dinner, at 281.980.6500 or at [email protected]. and some amazing door prizes. What about an evening of art, please contact Sharon Venables at 2006 Spring Fling Another Big Success Since 1971, spring at Jesuit has meant one thing - Spring Fling. The annual event, which benefits the financial aid pro- gram, has grown to become one of the school’s largest single community events. This year’s event was held a little earlier than normal, falling on Sunday, March 5. The earlier date didn’t seem to cause any problems as the weather cooperated. The crowd was large and so was the fun. The crowd had a variety of food and entertainment options. The cafeteria was home to the International Taste Tour featuring a sampling of food items from around the world. The Smith Gymnasium was once again home to the Casino while the quad area outside of Moran Hall was dotted with inflatables as well as the music stage where live entertainment was provided all after noon. www.strakejesuit.org The Chronicle 13 Spring 2006.qxp 3/15/2006 11:10 AM Page 14 Because others gave then. Billy Zaleski '86 BA Business Administration/Finance University of Oklahoma Co-Founder - At Home Media Strake Jesuit Mentor President - Data Projections Strake Jesuit Financial Aid Recipient It doesn't just happen. 14 Spring 2006 www.strakejesuit.org Spring 2006.qxp 3/15/2006 11:10 AM Page 15 Because you give now. William Todd '06 Member - National Honor Society for 3 years Member - Honor Roll every quarter at Jesuit Member - Triple Trio TPSMEA All State Choir Member - Chorus, Celluloid Club, and Medical Club Member - Fort Bend Boys Choir Strake Jesuit Financial Aid Recipient Choose to give to Strake Jesuit. Visit www.strakejesuit.org and click on Giving to Strake Jesuit. www.strakejesuit.org The Chronicle 15 Spring 2006.qxp 3/15/2006 11:10 AM Page 16 It's usually well after hours, often after 10:00 p.m. that an e-mail Association Tournament. Given the fact that Texas is one of the goes out to the faculty reporting the news that we have won, lost most competitive debate teams in the country taking first in the or tied a game - that we’re still in this or that tournament, but the state is an admirable accomplishment - achieved not just by being competition is tough and it’s usually a coach who gets out the talented but by working many, many long hours under the guid- news about his football players, runners or debaters - one last job ance and discipline of their coaches. before calling it a day. But at Jesuit, that coach is invariably a class room teacher, and at a grade level meeting, it is that teacher, Consequently coaches and moderators, retreat team leaders, whose students usually call coach on and off the field, who most chaplains and service project supervisors spend many hours with often has a unique insight into a student’s problem in the class- their students, not just doing their job of coaching, directing or room. It isn’t at all unusual, when the news that a student is expe- guiding, they spend hours listening. Besides being coaches and riencing difficulties in the classroom, in behavior or in life in gen- teachers most of the people who work with our young men are eral makes its way to the principal, to the dean of students or to also drivers and when a team or group of performers are on the the school’s chaplain or counselors, that the first question that road, the coaches are also the concierges who don’t just happen comes to mind is “Who’s his coach?” The coach whether it be the to know the comings and goings of their students - it’s their job to man whose beyond on the practice field with him day after day or know. the young woman who has guided him through countless hours in rehearsal will know what the root of the problem is or where to But beyond knowing there is caring; one of those other Jesuit start looking. terms that comes up even more often than magis, is the phrase We are a relatively small school; the curriculum is demanding in Studiorum, the plan of studies and guide to Jesuit educators that both the number of courses a student is required to take and in the has been part of Jesuit schools in one form or another since the level of their difficulty. The demands placed on students are end of the sixteenth century, comes from the Constitutions - the reflected in the demands placed on teachers in the time they rules and guidelines for the Jesuits. Close to two-thirds of the spend preparing and grading and keeping up with their respective Constitutions are about forming Jesuits so what happened in the fields. Our students are bright and they are used to a demanding shaping and making of Jesuits over several centuries has come pace, which in turn places more demands on the work that teach- into regular use among both Jesuit and lay teachers. In everyday ers must do to stay ahead. The teachers often use the word magis parlance all of these activities are labeled as extracurricular. But (that Jesuit term that means do better work, do greater things, do as far as schools go, whatever happens at school, whatever is your best and then some), but they apply the term to themselves included in the school’s program is in fact part of what we want to in the work they do in their classes. On top of the demands that happen - its part of the course we run, that is to say our curricu- cura personalis. This term which doesn’t show up in the Ratio come with being a Jesuit school are the lum. It is because the school has blend- challenges that come with our particular ed these two traditions - modern group of competitors. This past year, American extracurriculars and the tradi- our football team, which represented the tion of cura personalis - that when we smallest school in one of the most com- need to find out about a student and his petitive football districts in the state life, and we need to know who knows worked its way all the way through the that ‘kid’ and who cares about him, we season into the play-offs. At this writing often ask, ‘Who’s his coach?’ I received the news that our debate team, which for several months has been rated number-one in the nation, earned the school’s first state title in debate in winning the Texas Forensic 16 Spring 2006 www.strakejesuit.org Spring 2006.qxp 3/15/2006 11:10 AM Page 17 The Loyola Society at Strake Jesuit G The L ift of a ifetime The Loyola Society at Strake Jesuit includes those individuals who have made Strake Jesuit College Preparatory a beneficiary through a will, a charitable trust agreement, a gift annuity agreement, a retirement fund, or a life insurance policy. These gifts “Time is the school in which we learn.” are considered part of Planned Giving. Such gifts, truly the Gift of a Lifetime, ensure that the mission of Strake Jesuit - to train young boys to become Men for Others - continues for generations into the future. If you would like more information on Planned Giving at Strake Jesuit, visit our web site at www.strakejesuit.org and click on ‘Giving to Strake Jesuit’ and then ‘Planned Giving’. Or contact NJ Santarcangelo '67 in the Office of Development at 713.490.8152. www.strakejesuit.org The Chronicle 17 Spring 2006.qxp 3/15/2006 11:10 AM Page 18 ATHLETICS Jesuit Hoopsters Close out Smith Gym, Build for New Season in New Home The start of the 2005-2006 season marked the Crusaders athletics 3rd year in the UIL. It also marked the start of good things to district and an overall record of 15- come in the future as the incoming talent proved at the lower lev- 14. Throughout els. The Crusaders' season got off to a great start with big wins the season, the against 2005 state quarterfinalist Conroe and a big win over Crusaders made cross-town rival St. Thomas, TAPPS state runner ups. A trip to huge strides while Washington D.C. to compete in the Good Counsel High School turning Tournament followed where they first faced Holy Cross of New heads this year in York and fell just one basket short. Jesuit then matched-up the UIL, and will against state ranked National Christian Academy of Maryland enter next season and came out on top with a last second shot to win and a 6th in their new gym- place finish at the tournament. The Crusaders then played in the nasium with great Lee College Classic Tournament where they won their pool and promise for future defeated Magnolia to win the Silver division championship. success. more It was then on to district play where Jesuit got off to a slow start with 2 loses. They then bounced back with a 3-game winning streak and jumped into 3rd place in district and playoff contention. But injuries to big players plagued the team as they went through a stretch of close games only to come up short. At the end of the season they posted a 6-10 district record and 5th in Senior Steve Tyree (above), who will be playing basketball for Bucknell next year, led the Crusaders most of the way this season and was among the leaders in the Houston area in steals, rebounds, and blocked shots. Seniors to Play at Collegiate Level UIL Gives Crusaders New Home This past February, the UIL in Texas went through its bi-annual re-districting and, as a result, the Crusaders found themselves in a new district for the next two years. A member of District 19-5A, which included all of the Katy and Alief schools, since Jesuit's entrance into the UIL three years ago, the school will be a member of District 17-5A beginning next Four seniors signed up to play col- year. lege athletics this spring. Pictured here, the seniors are: (above, left to right) Joining Jesuit in the new district are Jonathan Moore (football-Cornell), Steven the Cypress-Fairbanks schools which Tyree (basketball - Bucknell) and Grant include Cy-Fair, Cypress Falls, Cypress Jefferson (football - Columbia) and (right) Springs, Cypress Creek, Cypress Ridge, Scott Coffman (football - Georgetown) Jersey Village, and Langham Creek. with his parents Richard and Karen Coffman. 18 Spring 2006 www.strakejesuit.org Spring 2006.qxp 3/15/2006 11:10 AM Page 19 ATHLETICS Team Effort Works for Crusader Swimmers The Fighting Crusaders Swim Team found team success on their way to a strong 5-2 dual meet record. Among their top meet performances were wins at the Bellaire Invitational and the Private Schools City Championship. “We had a really strong dual meet team,” said Coach Bob Horn. “We had lots of guys capable of posting a 2nd, 3rd, or 4th place finish.” At the district meet the squad finished 7th, but were hurt by a false start disqualification in the relays. At the regional meet the Crusaders managed a 17th place finish. That was due in large part to junior Santiago Lombo and his performance in the 100 meter backstroke when he posted a his personal best time of 55.65. Junior Santiago Lombo led the Crusaders at the Regional meet with a personal best in the 100 meter backstroke. athletics this spring as they posted several strong finishes in dual meets Wrestlers Begin Rebuilding with Future Promise Staying optimistic during the wrestling season was, at times, hard. That's what wrestling is - hard. The team never had a full line up, making it difficult to complete in dual meets. However, in Grapevine at the Texas State Duals, first year Head Coach John Lopez sensed a that "team" started to form. It began to show when they were challenged to “not go home until we win half of the matches we wrestle." Within JUST hours the team had done just that, winning half of their matches, twice. The team then began to have fun and set realistic goals. This was evident at the St. Thomas Duals where the team went 2 and 1 for the day. On an individual level, senior Steve Nijoka placed third in 180 lb weight class. He finished the tournament with a 4-1 record including a gutsy overtime victory to seal his place in the UIL State Wrestling Tournament in Austin. The season was expected to be a rebuilding year, and it was in every aspect. The good news is that all but two wrestlers from the current team will return next year to continue construction. Senior Steve Nijoka placed third at Regionals to qualify or the UIL State Wrestling Tournament. www.strakejesuit.org The Chronicle 19 3/15/2006 art museum Spring 2006.qxp 11:11 AM Page 20 A VIEW FROM THE STRAKE JESUIT ART MUSEUM Sharon Kopriva: Transformative Spirit by Ellen Orseck, Strake Jesuit Art Museum Curator A trip to Peru's ancient ruins inspired Houston, Texas artist Sharon Not one to skirt difficult or unpopular subjects, such as the Kopriva to create visceral sculptures of death and everlasting life. Inquisition represented by The Raven, child molestation or the Despite the eerie Incan burial grounds, Kopriva was not alarmed humanity of nuns at the piano - Kopriva considers all fair fuel. by the mummies she witnessed near Cuzco, "They weren't fright- Apocryphal landscapes, such as ening; they were beautiful…they make you think about your own Inside of Night, draw you into mortality." their vast horizon like a magnet, inviting the viewer to find that Kopriva trained as a painter at the University of Houston where everlasting light at the end of the she earned her master's degree in fine arts. Remarkably, she is tunnel. Notice the three-dimen- equally skilled as a sculptor and printmaker and often blurs the tra- sional objects adhered to the ditional lines between various forms of art. As a self-taught sculp- front of the picture plane further tor, Kopriva is fearless about incorporating found objects, breaking blurring the lines of what is real boundaries between sculpture, painting and installation art. She and what is illusory. experiments with papier-mâché, chicken bones, paint, glue, gauze and found objects to bring to life nuns, bishops, cardinals and mar- Everything is transformed in tyrs. Growing up Catholic in Houston, Kopriva was saturated with Kopriva's hands - the ephemeral indelible memories of fragrant incense and candle light. The ritu- specters of life become metaphors als of her heritage come to life in her richly symbolic painting, for the vector point between life and death, between salvation and sculpture and printmaking. damnation. 20 Spring 2006 Study of the Raven, 2005 drawing 12 x 18 inches collection of the artist The Raven, 1998 mixed media 86 x 40 x 43 inches On loan from Frank Ribelin On display in the Moody Memorial Library Rite of Passage cast bronze 60 x 132 x 72 inches Gerald Peters Gallery Inside of Night oil/mixed media on clay board 40 x 30 inches framed LewAllen Contemporary www.strakejesuit.org Koriva with The Raven Spring 2006.qxp 3/15/2006 11:11 AM Page 21 by Fr. Mark Thibodeaux, SJ Good Morning, Lord Awake, O harp and lyre! I will awake the dawn. I will give thanks to you, O Lord, among the peoples, and I will sing praises to you among the nations. For your steadfast love is higher than the heavens, and your faithfulness reaches to the clouds. Be exalted, O God, above the heavens, and let your glory be over all the earth. Ps. 108:2-5 It's Saturday morning and Dad, in undershirt and boxers and I, in see that my Father and I can easily control them - can keep my PJ's, are lathering our faces with shaving cream as we look at soul smooth despite their presence. Last night, as I tossed and ourselves in the bathroom mirror. I, being only six years old, turned in bed, the waters of chaos crashed upon the craggy stand on the countertop and move Dad's comb down my cheeks, rocks of my worried heart. But this morning, God's breath makes pushing off the foam in rows in the same manner as my Dad's everything still and quiet. And at the end of the ceremony, I offer reflection is doing with his razor. I love this ritual. I love the feel my own Morning Offering. It's a little different than Dad's, but it of my Dad's smooth cheeks after the stubble of the night is serves the same purpose: it consecrates my day to the Lord: swiped away. At some point during this father-son ceremony, Dad nods toward the rectangular sticker with the face of Jesus that is stuck to the lower-right-hand side of the mirror. My read- Eternal Word, ing skills being new, I try as best I can to follow along as Dad Only begotten Son of the Father, recites the Morning Offering, "O Jesus, through the Immaculate Teach me true generosity. Heart of Mary, I offer You my prayers, works, joys and sufferings Teach me to serve as you deserve: of this day…." To give without counting the cost. To fight, heedless of the wounds, My Saturday morning prayer times these days have the same To labor without seeking rest, feel as those of my childhood memories. I, in robe and slippers, To sacrifice myself without the thought of any reward, sit with a cup of coffee while The Father and I prayerfully swipe Except for the knowledge that I have done your will. away the stubble - the worries and concerns I took to bed with Amen. me the night before. Last night, they kept me up and led me to believe they would soon grow out of control. But this morning, I (attributed to Saint Ignatius Loyola) www.strakejesuit.org The Chronicle 21 3/15/2006 alumni news Spring 2006.qxp 11:11 AM Page 22 ALUMNI NEWS Alums Gather as Jesuits This past Christmas, a host of special Jesuit alums came together in Grand Coteau, Louisiana. Aside from their common bonds as graduates of Strake Jesuit, they were also bonded by the fact that they were Jesuit brothers, all in service to the Society of Jesus. The alums ranged in graduating classes from the first, in 1965, to the most recent, in 2005. Fr. Bill Farge, SJ ‘65 represented the early Strake Jesuit years. Fr. Farge entered the Society in 1965, was ordained in 1978 and took his final vows in 1983. He is currently on the faculty at Loyola University in New Orleans where he is professor of Japanese. In order of the Jesuit class year, the other alums in the group are: - Fr. Joey Carola, SJ ‘80. Fr. Carola Jesuit Alums in the Society of Jesus (left to right): Thaddeus Lancton ‘05, John Nugent ‘00, Michael Wegenka ‘05, David Paternostro ‘04, Derrick Weingartner ‘87, and Fr. Joey Carola, SJ ‘80. Not pictured is Fr. Bill Farge, SJ ‘65. entered the Society in 1980 and was ordained in 1993. He is currently Professor of patrisitc theolowhere he works in a soup kitchen and a relief center. He gy at Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome. - Derrick Weingartner, nSJ ‘87 entered the Society in 1999 and is in his second year of regency. He is currently serving at Jesuit High School in Tampa where he is teaching Theology. - John Nugent, nSJ ‘00 who is a second year Novice. He is currently on a four-month assignment in Tijuana, Mexico anticipates taking his first vows this coming August. - David Paternostro, nSJ ‘04, Thaddeus Lancton, nSJ ‘05 and Michael Wegenka, nSJ ‘05 are all first year Novices and have been serving in the Texas valley. They each anticipate taking their first vows in August, 2007. Reunion Weekend 2006: The Planning Begins 2006 elected to coordinate with the St. plans are underway. Scheduled Reunion Weekend Agnes reunion plans and include for Friday and Saturday, August them in their Saturday night party. 25 and 26, this year’s Reunion Watch your e-mail inbox and you will include eight classes, from mail box for more information and 1966 - 2001. The Class of 1966 details on Reunion Weekend 2006. will be celebrating their 40th And, as always, information will be Reunion. available on the school web site Class representatives have under ‘Alumni.’ stepped forward to help coordinate the 1986 - Tom Stallings, Tony Alvarez, details for the weekend, except for the James Martingano, Mike McConell volunteer to help coordinate your class class of 1981 (at the time of publication). 1991 - Shane Walsh, Alex Montoya, Josh party, contact Tim Scalzitti '90, Director of The other class reps are: McMorrow Alumni Relations at 713.490.8153 or by e- 1966 - Larry Mason 1996 - Kevin Kelleher, Kevin Mitchell, mail at [email protected]. 1971 - Charles Kurth Andy Dougherty 1976 - Arnie Azios 2001 - Kyle Burks 1981 - ? 22 Spring 2006 Two classes, 1986 and 1996, have www.strakejesuit.org For more information, questions, or to 3/15/2006 11:11 AM Page 23 alumni news Spring 2006.qxp ALUMNI NEWS Basketball, Soccer Alums Gather For Special Nights Over 60 alums (pictured above) turned out on Tuesday, February 7 for a very spe- cial night in the Smith Gymnasium. That night the Crusaders hosted Alief Taylor in the final basketball to be played in the facility. Having served Jesuit basketball and athletics since 1965, next year the gym will be replaced when the new competition gym, the Crusaders new home, opens as a part of the new Athletic Center Complex. The Crusaders managed a win for the alums and for the Smith Gymnasium farewell. Subsequent plans for The Greater Glory Capital Campaign call for the existing building to not be torn down but, instead, be converted to a much needed, larger dining hall. The Annual Alumni Soccer game, held on December 29, 2005, underwent some changes this year, but the turnout and the spirited competition was just as great. Due to UIL regulations the current varsity squad was not able to take on a team of soccer alums, so the event became a contest of alums vs. alums. The alumni on hand were divided into two squads and they battled on the field at Crusader Stadium. The result was a great time for all, a lot of reminiscing, refreshments in the cafeteria afterwards (and probably more than a few sore muscles the next day at the office). www.strakejesuit.org The Chronicle 23 3/15/2006 alumni news Spring 2006.qxp 11:11 AM Page 24 ALUMNI NEWS Lorenz '88 Takes Over as President of Alumni Association resource for the community, the school, and fel- January brought the beginning of another semester at Strake Jesuit. It also signaled the low members. I want the Strake Jesuit Alumni beginning of my term as President of the Association to be a source of pride for us all and Strake Jesuit Alumni Association. I am privi- an organization that provides value to its mem- leged to have the opportunity to serve the bers. school and the association in this capacity and As students we were taught to be Men for would like to take a few moments to introduce Others, as alumni, we are expected to act on myself and briefly outline my goals for the these teachings. For those that have been active organization. with the association, I would like to say thank you. My name is Todd Lorenz, I am a member To those that are considering taking an active role, of the class of 1988, and my wife Julie and I I welcome you. To those that may have drifted live in Pearland. away, I would remind you that it is never too late to I have been actively get involved. involved with the Alumni Association for association in your prayers. approximately six years, having served as a class representative, secretary/treasurer, vice president, and now, president. In this role, I would like to build on the suc- Sincerely, cesses of my predecessors and continue to strengthen our association. I would like to see our association serve as a 24 Spring 2006 Please keep the school and the Todd Lorenz ‘88 www.strakejesuit.org 3/15/2006 11:11 AM Page 25 class notes Spring 2006.qxp CLASS NOTES ‘60’’s s ‘60 Joe Polichino '66 sold the family beer business and is semiretired. His current business is Quadrant II Consulting and he advises owners and managers of small to mid-size businesses on start-ups, growth strategies, marketing, turnarounds, and buying/selling. He is also a realtor in residential and commercial real estate. Glen Boudreaux '67 and his wife, Honi, welcomed the birth of their first grandchild on January 27. Their daughter, Elizabeth, and her husband Chris celebrated the birth of Henry Morrison Coffman at Methodist Hospital in Houston. Bruce Dugey '67 works for the Port of Houston Authority at their Barbours Cut facility in LaPorte. He and his wife, Sharon, live in Clear Lake, have four children and six grandchildren and spend their leisure time on their farm in Smithville, Texas raising cattle and fishing. George Gaenslen '67 rode 600 miles on a dirt bike over jeep trails in Big Bend National Park this spring and has plans to go to Moab, Utah in April for more dirt biking. Michael Henry '67 received a Fulbright Distinguished Scholar award from the US-UK Fulbright Shawn McShane '73 (right) and his son, Brian, and wife, Kathleen. Commission to lecture at the Centre for Sustainable Heritage at University College London for the Spring 2006 term. He is currently Principal Engineer/Architect with Watson & Henry Associates, Preservation Architects and Engineers located in Bridgeton, New Jersey. Gray Miller '67 has been nominated by President Bush to the federal bench. He is currently a senior partner at Fulbright & Jaworski in Houston. Sam Polichino '67 is the Office Manager for Ben E. Kieth Company in Dallas, the largest Anheuser-Busch distributor in the United States. Sam and his wife Rhonda live in Lewisville, just north of Dallas. Johnny Webre '67 is beginning his 34th year at Maurice Pincoffs Company in the international trade area. He and his wife, Debbie, have two sons - Judson, who has been accepted to Jesuit for the fall, and Ty who is in the 7th grade at St. Michael's School. ‘70‘7’0s’s Gerardo A. Smith '70 has been living in Houston after his mother passed away in January, 2005. He is re-modeling her house on Stroud, near Strake Jesuit, for possible sale and his daughter, Katie, Tom Reilly '80 and his son, Garrett. moved in with him to continue her education. Shawn McShane '73 and his wife, Kathleen, live in Portland with their two sons, Brian and Patrick. Brian is a senior at Portland Jesuit where, as a member of the Crusaders (yes, Crusaders) football team, he was a part of their state championship season this year. Tom Reilly '80 and his wife Sandra (SAA '81) live in the Dallas-Fort Worth area where he works for Bell Helicopter Textron, Inc. Their son, Garrett, recently won the state competition of the Knights of Columbus Soccer Challenge. Garrett and his younger sister, Shannon, attend St. John the Apostle Catholic School. Paul Svacina '82 is an engi- Dr. John Bertini '74 was recently named chief of Staff at CHRISTUS St. Joseph Hospital in Houston. John is a graduate of the University of Texas and lives in West University. Dr. Shawn Messonnier '79 was selected by Martha Stewart Omnimedia as the pet care expert for Martha Stewart's new radio show, which premiered in November, 2005. Shawn also writes a weekly pet care column for the Dallas Morning News and a regular column for Body and Soul Magazine. ‘80’’ss ‘80 Jim LePage '80 has been promoted to regional sales manager for Airgas Mid-South and has responsibility for all of Kansas, Oklahoma, Arkansas and part of five other states. Bob Reilly '84 and his bride, Stephanie (SAA '88). www.strakejesuit.org neer, a massage therapist in the physical therapy office, and attends pre-med classes at college. In 2004 he took a year off from engineering work to spend five months in Europe. Chris Miller '83 and his wife, Kimberly, welcomed the birth of their son, Christopher Jr. in last November. They live in Houston and also have two daughters, Madison and Annelise. Mark Aitala '84 and his wife, Sara, welcomed their second son into the world December 15, 2005. Kole Joseph was welcomed by mom, dad and brother Dillon. Mark still works in Austin at Apple Computer as Worldwide Field Service Data Manager but considers his true vocation to be combination human playscape and diaper genie. Bob Reilly '84 married Stephanie Baker (SAA '88) on January 14, 2006. Dillon, son of Mark Aitala's '84, with new younger brother Kole. The Chronicle 25 Spring 2006.qxp 3/15/2006 11:11 AM Page 26 class notes CLASS NOTES Raquel, wife of Gregory George '86, with daughter Isabelle. Mike Riccetti '84 and Michael Wells '84 have collaborated on a new book "The Guide to Ridiculously Easy Entertaining Tips from Marfreless that was published at the end of last year and is available in bookstores and on Amazon.com. Gregory George '86 is Managing Director and Head of Execution for The Bank of Nova Scotia's US Energy practice in Houston. He and his wife, Raquel, have three children and currently live in Friendswood, Texas. Nelson Ebaugh '86 is an attor- ney with Zimmerman, Axelrad, Meyer, Stern & Wise P.C. in Houston. He and his wife, Grace, published an article in the fall 2005 issue of The Journal of Texas Consumer Law, and in 2005 Texas Monthly and Law & Politics Magazine recognized Nelson as a "Texas Arising Star." Marty Schrier '86 lives in Miami with his wife, Rosi, and their daughter, Sabrina, and son, Lucas. He works for Kirkpatrick & Lockhart, an international law firm. Rob Hubbell '88 and this bride, Wendy. 26 Spring 2006 John Neslage '87 and his bride, Ashley at their wedding with the presider, Honorable Ken Wise '87. Edward Horan '87 returned to New Orleans after a two-week evacuation to Houston after Hurricane Katrina. He resumed work at the City in his position with the Department of Safety and Permits. 90’’ss ‘9‘0 Rocco Hard '90 married Laarni Patrick Bridges '87 lives in the Houston area with his wife, Laura, and their four children. He works as a Hospitalist in the Texas Medical Center, specializing in management of cardiovascular surgery patients and long-term care. John Neslage '87 has worked as Senior Counsel for Enron since 1998. In April, 2004 he married Ashley Stephens by the Honorable Ken Wise '87 in his courtroom and the best man was Marc Miller '87. Rob Hubbell '88 and his wife, Wendy, were married this past December in Kyle, Texas. He is working as Athletic Equipment Manager at Texas State University and, the weekend of the wedding, the team played the University of Northern Iowa at home in the NCAA 1-AA Football Championship Semi-Final game. Hernandez on March 4, 2006 at the Sheraton Suites Hotel in Houston. Brad Kerwin '91 is happily engaged to Stephanie Sullano and they plan to be married this October. Shane Walsh '91 is managing Andress-Walsh Company and lives with his wife, Elena (SAA '91) in Pearland with their two sons, Kyle and Brandon. Brandon Swoboda '93 and his wife, Betsy, live in Knoxville, Tennessee with their children Hunter, Tucker, Conner, Bessie Mae, and Lilly. Howard C. Chapman '94 and his wife, Stacie, welcomed the birth of their son, Howard Daniel on December 17, 2005. Howard Daniel, son of Howard Chapman '94. www.strakejesuit.org Joseph Gaines '96 graduated from the University of Houston in 2001 with a Bachelor of Music degree in Vocal Performance. He then studied singing for a year at the Felix Mendelssohn College of Music and Drama in Leipzig, Germany. This season he is singing as an apprentice artist at Sarasota (Florida) Opera and Central City (Colorado) Opera and is a featured soloist in Houston with the Mercury Baroque Ensemble, the Houston Chamber Choir, the Houston Bach Society, and in Washington D.C. with the Washington Bach Society. Trip Norkus '96 and his wife, Lizzie, we married on January **, 2006. in Houston. Fr. Mark Thibodeaux, SJ presided at the wedding. Paul Merkel '97 and his wife, Carina, recently celebrated their first anniversary in December and are currently building a house in Pearland, Texas Paul Merkel '97 and his wife, Carina. Spring 2006.qxp 3/15/2006 11:11 AM Page 27 ‘0‘000’’ss Tony Polichino '01 graduated from Johnson & Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island with a BS in Food Service Entrepreneurship. He is currently working at Maggiano's in Houston where Jim Biles '79 as the General Manager. This summer he will fulfill a commitment for the 7th year to serve as a counselor at Camp for All in Burton, Texas. Matt Gochnour '01 graduated in December from Georgia Tech with a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering and accepted a job with BP in Houston. Michael Marchand '02 will graduate this semester from Loyola University in Chicago with his BA in Theology. He plans to move back to Houston and become the Coordinator of Youth Ministry at St. Anne's Catholic Church. In mid-August, he plans on marrying fellow Loyola graduate Crystal Dasburg in Chicago. Joey Gochnour '04 received the President's Freshman Award at Penn State last April which is awarded to only 1% of the freshman class. IN MEMORIAM Daniel J. Compton '02 Trent Fucich '03 Carlos Senosiain '08 Daniel Compton, member of the Jesuit class of 2002, passed away on Saturday, March 4, 2006. He was a senior at Georgia Tech in Atlanta where was was majoring in computer science. Trent Fucich, member of the Jesuit class of 2003, passed away on February 21, 2006. He was a junior at Loyola University in New Orleans. Carlos Senosiain, member of the class of 2008, passed away on Wednesday, February 8 after a lifelong battle with cancer. James Barlow Anderson Father of Msgr. James B. Anderson, Jr. Farrell Bolz Father of Anthony '07 Alex Masoomian '05 was selected to play with the Austin Symphony Orchestra at their concerts in March. Michael Kurt '05, after attending Texas A&M in the fall, is interning this semester with the Disney through their Walt Disney World College Program. After auditioning, he was offered the role of Tigger. He hopes to pursue a career with the Disney Company in accounting or finance. Jim Zerda '99 Jim Zerda, member of the Jesuit class of 1999, passed away on Friday, February 17, 2006. He was the brother of David Zerda '98. He had been working as an actor and film producer. Alfred R. Lea Father of Steve ‘73 and Tom ‘76 Andre Piazza Father of Pascal '75 Rose Santoro Mother of Tom ‘71 Barney Burdick Brother of Paul ‘75 Dorothy Nonmacher Todd Mother of Jack ‘71, Mark ‘75 and Kevin Nonmacher ‘80 and Grandmother of Edwin '00, Timothy '04, and David '09 Allen Joseph Cortez, Sr. Father of Allen ‘78 Dr. Rudolf L. Jemelka Father of Jim ‘77 BIRTHS class notes CLASS NOTES Thomas John Uhl, Jr. Father of Fr. Luke (Robert Uhl ‘70) John McCloskey Breen, Jr. on October 31, 2005 John ‘81 and Zoe Kole Joseph Aitala on December 15, 2005 Mark ‘84 and Sara Christopher Miller, Jr. in November, 2005 Chris ‘83 and Kimberly Howard Daniel Chapman on December 17, 2005 Howard '94 and Stacie www.strakejesuit.org The Chronicle 27 Spring 2006.qxp 3/15/2006 11:11 AM Page 28 Progress Brings Back Memories athletics Construction of the new athletic complex is well underway. As January ended, the contractor began raising the walls of new gymnasiums. The structures are in a word, "overwhelming." The new facility looms large over the north end of the campus. The old Smith Gymnasium is simply dwarfed by its replacement. The future is at hand and the school must insure that we are prepared. As for this Olde Crusader, thoughts of the future are invariably coupled with remembrances of the past. I suppose that this phenomenon is a function of my age but that's just fine with me because thoughts of days gone by evoke truly fond memories. I remember that in 1961, when this school first opened its doors, there were only two buildings; the Smith Gymnasium and the 300 building. Back then the 300 building was called "the freshman building" perhaps because that first year, only 91 students were enrolled and they were all freshmen. The old gym was brand-new and state of the art in its architecture and design. Other than that, there was only a humble smattering of what were politely referred to as "temporary buildings." These were white washed, wood frame buildings that were sorely needed to supplement the one modest freshman classroom facility. One of the wood frame buildings served as our cafeteria. Another was used as the administration office and another was put to good use as our Chapel. The last of these "temporary buildings" were removed from campus some 20 years later. In those early days, Houston was a small city. The Astrodome was just a dream in the planning. Major League baseball was played in an open air wooden bleacher stadium located at the edge of town by a team we called the Colt 45's. 28 Spring 2006 Sharpstown Center was still under construction and it was the first air-conditioned shopping mall in the state of Texas. Bellaire Boulevard, west of Fondren Road was not a boulevard but an unpaved trail. The Southwest Freeway ended at Bellaire Boulevard. Sugar Land was a quaint little town known only for its sugar mill and penitentiary. Frank Sharp was a developer who envisioned a new community west of the city of Bellaire. The land west of Fondren road was rural, agricultural, and mainly used to farm rice or to raise cattle. He gifted a parcel of land to the Jesuits and on the site of a former rice field, our founder, Fr. Michael Kennely built the Jesuit College Preparatory. In those early days many forward thinking and generous benefactors, including philanthropist George W. Strake for whom the school was later named, helped the Jesuits. The Strake dedication ceremony was held in the Smith Gymnasium and I can still remember the ceremony as if it were just yesterday. On that day, all thoughts were of the future. It was a day very much like the day that I first saw the Parsley building, or the day I first saw the 600 building, or again like the day I first saw the new football stadium. Forty-five years after the Jesuits first opened this school, our thoughts are once again about the future. And for this Olde Crusader, those thoughts always bring back many fond memories of the past. And to that and to the future, I pledge my shield and my sword. George www.strakejesuit.org Spring 2006 Cover.qxp 3/13/2006 10:16 AM Page 4 CALENDAR OF EVENTS April 2 Father-Son Breakfast 9 Palm Sunday Mass & Egg Hunt 13 Holy Thursday Liturgy 16 Easter 20 NHS Induction 21 Spring Orchestra Concert 22 Fantasy Auction 28 Spring Band Concert 29 Amistad Celebration 30 Junior Cross and Ring Ceremony May 2 Awards Ceremony 4 Mothers for Others Luncheon 5 Junior/Senior Prom 8 Take God to College 10 Teacher Appreciation Dinner 13 Mentor Mom Coffee Fr. J.B. Leininger, SJ Gala 14 Mother’s Day Liturgy 15 Strake Jesuit Scramble 20 Baccalaureate 21 Graduation 24 Board of Directors Dinner June 2-3 5 Summer School Registration Summer School Begins For up to date event information, go to www.strakejesuit.org Donut with Balls and Ring, 2000 by Fletcher Benton measures 120 x 120 x 96 inches and is composed of Cort-en steel. It is on loan from Frank Ribelin and is located outside the northeast corner of the Library. Spring 2006 Cover.qxp 3/13/2006 10:16 AM Page 5 Now online at www.strakejesuit.org See page 10 for details. PARENTS, if you are still receiving your son’s Chronicle although he no longer lives with you, let us know so we can change our records and send the magazine directly to him. If you enjoy reading the publication but do not receive a copy of your own, let us know that too. We would be glad to send a copy to your son’s new address and continue to send you one. Contact the Alumni Office at [email protected] or at 713.490.8153 Strake Jesuit College Preparatory 8900 Bellaire Blvd. Houston, TX 77036 Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Houston, TX Permit No. 11441
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