Spring Clarion 2010 - St. Mary's High School

St. Mary’s High School
St. Louis, Missouri
Spring 2010
Student and Alumni
Magazine
larion
Fostering interests in the rewards of education.

A Message from the President
Dear Family of Mary,
This past March I had a marvelous opportunity to spend a week with 20 of our juniors and
seven parents participating in the Christian Appalachian Project. Our crew from St. Mary’s
joined with students and staff from The King’s Academy of Northern California to provide
service to residents of Eastern Kentucky who are in great need. Some of us used shovels,
others hammers and nails or lawn mowers and rakes. All of us worked to make a difference
in other people’s lives. It was an opportunity to work together, pray together, learn together
and also to play together. From basketball, to boating, to scrabble and to long hikes in the
woods there was plenty to do at Camp AJ. We even traveled 30 miles to join in the Mass of
the Lord’s Supper on Holy Thursday; the community there was encouraged by our presence
and our faith.
That week in the Appalachian Hills remains a significant moment for me to reflect on just
what it is that we are about here at St. Mary’s. As I see young men struggling to find their
way in this world I realize the importance of our faith in Christ and our devotion to Mary.
Our students may not wear their emotions on their sleeves; these young men are not so
inclined to preach their faith. But when someone is in need, these men respond in very
powerful ways. I really believe it is our faith and our devotion which provides the model for
our students. I still want them to sing in Church; I still want them to pray every day. But when
it really matters, knowing that these young men will sacrifice themselves for others is a great
blessing.
As we continually strive to expand and to deepen our mission in the life of the Church and
in the City of St. Louis it is more evident than ever that our efforts
are worth it. Every sacrifice we can make for the sake of these
young men will help them to understand the sacrifices they are
destined to make for the life of the world. Although they may not
say it much, in their hearts they know they are becoming true sons
of Mary.
Per Matrem Ad Filium,
Rev. Mitchell S. Doyen

St. Mary’s High School
St. Louis, Missouri
Spring 2010
Student and Alumni
Magazine
St. Mary’s High School
St. Louis Missouri
Rev. Mitchell S. Doyen
President
Kevin Hacker
Principal
Jane Goff
Associate Principal
Clarion
Fostering interests in the rewards of education.
Campus Expansion Dedication Ceremony
Editors:
Advancement Team
Contributing Photographer:
Steve Wadley, Wadley Images
Layout/Design:
Chris Shoemaker, RBO PrintLogistix
The Clarion is published two times a year for
the Alumni, family and friends of St. Mary’s
High School. Your input and articles are always
welcome, however, there is a space and time
limitation for each publication. We may keep
your article for a future issue. We reserve the
right to edit articles.
Table of Contents
A Message From the School President 2
A Message From the Board Chairman 4
A Message From the Principal 5
A Message From the Associate Principal 6
School News 7-9
Student Activites 10-11
Cover Story 12-15
Dragons Sports 16-17
Advancement News 18-23
St. Mary’s High School
4701 S. Grand Blvd.
St. Louis, MO 63111
314.481.8400
www.stmaryshs.com
Letters to the Editor:
advancementoffice@stmaryshs.com
314.481.8400 ext. 115
Clarion • Spring 2010 3

BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Lynn Barnett Class of ‘66, Chair
Tom Rolf Class of ‘56, Vice Chair
Frank Causino Class of ‘75
Jeff Christanell Class of ‘89
Greg Divis Jr. Class of ‘84
Frank Flesch Class of ‘71
Pat Garland Class of ‘67
Daniel Kloeppel Class of ‘66
Matt Lanzone Class of ‘92
Dennis Moeller
Bro. William O’Leary Class of ‘48
Barb Reininger
Joseph Rosenbaum
Tina Schulte
John Simon Class of ‘79
When you are asked, answer the call. Contribute!
A Message From Chairman of the
Board of Directors
On March 24, 2010, Archbishop Robert
Carlson made a pastoral visit to St. Mary’s
and helped dedicate our new facilities. The
Archbishop celebrated Mass with twelve
concelebrants, (mostly St. Mary’s clergy). The
students were well dressed and well behaved.
The campus sparkled like the crown jewel of
South St. Louis that it is. At the conclusion of
Mass, the dedication and blessing of the fields
took place, including the naming of campus
landmarks, honoring alumni who had greatly contributed to the success
of our expansion effort. These stalwarts of the community have given us
the impetus to achieve our goal of elevating St. Mary’s to the destination
school status it truly deserves.
These few Dragons, though great and powerful as they may be, cannot
attain our goal alone. St. Mary’s needs each and every one of you to help.
Our capital campaign to raise the funds to pay for the new fields and
needed improvements to the physical plant is being launched publicly.
It is time or the “Collective Dragon” to roar! Together, we will be heard.
I know that these are difficult times. Just like the poor woman in the back of the temple who gave her last
copper coins, your generosity will be greatly rewarded.
So do not let the efforts of our noble and generous Brother Dragons, Administration and Faculty go to
waste. Help keep your legacy alive. Make St. Mary’s Capital Campaign a success.
SPASMS: Brother Bill, Brother Ed, Denny, Bill, Duffy, Rich, Don, Fred, Sam, and the Divis Family.
St. Mary’s High School
Board of Directors
“The meaningful involvement of people in your mission and vision for the future”
Mr. Lynn Barnett ‘66, Chair
Mr. Tom Rolf ‘56, Vice-Chair
Advancement
Facilities
Finance
School Life
Technology
Spirituality
Membership:
Greg Divis, Jr. ‘84
Barb Reininger
Dan Kloeppel ‘66
Matt Lanzone ‘92
Fr. Bob Samson
(ad hoc)
Cathy Drury
(ad hoc)
John McArthur ‘66
(ad hoc)
Membership:
John Simon ‘79
Tony Simon ‘84
(ad hoc)
Robert Giegling ‘53
(ad hoc)
Rick Tajkowski
Membership: Membership:
Dennis Moeller Tina Schulte
Jeff Christanell ‘89 Pat Garland ‘67
Frank Flesch ‘71 Bob Lilly
(ad hoc)
Chris Barron
(ad hoc)
Kathy Pagano
(ad hoc)
Joe Rosenbaum ‘89
(ad hoc)
Clint Agee ’11
(ad hoc)
Stephen Schott ’12
(ad hoc)
Membership:
Frank Causino ‘75
Barb Hummel
(ad hoc)
Membership:
Bro. Bill O’Leary, S.M.
Fr. Bill Vatterott
(ad hoc)
Jane Knobbe
(ad hoc)
Laura Clark
(ad hoc)
Fr. Dave Paul, S.M.
(ad hoc)
Fr. Oscar Vasquez, S.M.
(ad hoc)
4 Clarion • Spring 2010

A Message from the Principal
Dear Community of St. Mary’s High School,
The 2009-2010 school year is quickly drawing to a conclusion. In my letter to you in this issue, I would
like to focus on congratulations, thanks, and also some information about faculty who served at St.
Mary’s over the years.
Often, graduates who took art and mechanical drawing at St. Mary’s might have had Myron Kozman
(1916-2002) as their instructor. Many have told me that Myron gave them the skills that they needed to
continue careers in drafting, engineering and art. That is only part of the story. Actually, Myron was a
famous part of the art world. He was a painter of abstract art, a sculptor, and a screen printer.
During the 1930’s Myron produced paintings for the Works Progress Administration (WPA). After receiving his degree from the Chicago
School of Design he served in the Army during the Second World War. He later returned to the Chicago School of Design where he
served as an instructor. During those years he became part of the Bauhaus Movement of abstract art. Mr. Kozman’s art is displayed at
the Art Institute of Chicago, the Library of Congress, and the Block Gallery at Northwestern University.
All at St. Mary’s knew Myron as a quiet gentleman dedicated to the Mission of St. Mary’s High School. Few would have ever known the
important role that he played in the history of American art.
When one speaks of dedication you can also focus on another former St. Mary’s faulty member who will be celebrating a jubilee in
April. Brother Francis Heyer, S.M. served for many years as an instructor of Biology at St. Mary’s. He also worked on the school grounds
planting trees and shrubs and keeping our lawns and green spaces in good form.
On April 24th, Brother Heyer will celebrate his 70th year of religious life. Congratulations to Brother Francis, and also, thanks for all of
your contributions that you made in behalf of the students and community of St. Mary’s High School.
In recent weeks several of our alumni were honored by St. Mary’s and the Society of Mary. Mr. Dennis Long (1953) was honored by the
Marianist Retreat and Conference Center on Sunday, March 21st. Mr. Long has been a staunch supporter of our mission. He has also
been instrumental in supporting Marianist initiatives and amateur soccer in the St. Louis area. Many thanks to Dennis for his support of
Catholic Education and in particular, St. Mary’s High School.
On Saturday, March 20th eleven alumni and the 1957 football team were inducted into the St. Mary’s High School Hall of Fame. As these
men told their storied two themes began to emerge.
The first is that South Side Catholic/St. Mary’s High School prepared them for their next steps in life. In some cases this was college. In
other cases they were prepared for careers or the military experience. The second theme is that friendships formed in high school were
formed for life! Both of these themes continue on for our students today. What was true in ’38, ’43, ’48, ’52, ’57, ’66, ’75, ’80, ’87, ’91, ’93,
remains an important part of the lives of the students that we serve in 2009-10.
Recently I attended a history symposium at St. Louis University. SLU has done an excellent job in including our college credit 1818
teachers in various in-service and other educational activities. In this way we stay connected with the university and we are better able
to serve your sons. I encourage all of our parents to in turn encourage their sons to take challenging dual credit course work that we
offer here at St. Mary’s. College credit earned at St. Mary’s prepares our students for college and it also enables them to earn credit
while still in high school. Because many graduate from our school with St. Louis University 1818 credit, it means that they can begin work
on advanced degrees or enter their chosen profession more quickly.
A word of thanks to Fr. Gary Faust (1970) for his contributions to St. Mary’s this year. Fr. Gary has assisted Campus Ministry Programs,
taught a religion class, and has created a number of Marian art works that we have used at school liturgies and around the school in
general. Father is a wonderful artist and he has shared his talents generously with the St. Mary’s community.
I would like to conclude my article by sharing with you some information concerning Catholic high schools. This information was
compiled by the National Catholic Education Association which is based in Washington, D.C. Their studies revealed the following:
• healthy schools and strong leadership must adapt to demographic change
• 42% of Catholic high schools have an enrollment under 400
• since the 1989-90 school year the per pupil cost to educated a student has gone up 55%
• 69% of students require some financial aid, schools are only able to meet the full need level of 53% of students seeking financial aid
• annual fund income has assumed an increasingly important source in school operations
• on average, state and federal government funding is a relatively minor benefit
• currently 46% of Catholic high schools use the President/Principal model
This report concluded that school boards and school leaders will be faced with difficult decisions that will sustain our schools during
these challenging economic times. With your continued prayers and support we at St. Mary’s will continue to make the important
decisions that will further our mission of Catholic Education.
To all of you, I extend my thanks, and best wished this spring of 2010
Kevin Hacker
Clarion • Spring 2010 5

A Message from the Associate Principal
Dear Parents, Alums, and Friends of St. Mary’s High School,
Since 1931, St. Mary’s High School has been participating in the Missouri
High Schools Accreditation process. The idea of school accreditation was
first developed more than 100 years ago by American universities and
secondary schools. Maintaining accreditation is of the utmost importance to
every educational institution in the United States. While the process and the
accreditation agency names have changed over the years, being accredited
becomes even more important to American high schools as we take on expanded curriculums, diverse
populations, and the demands of preparing students for a rapidly changing future. When a school is
accredited, stakeholders can be assured that the school has qualified teachers, a rich and sound
curriculum, a range of student activities and support services, and transferability of credits from school
to school. To keep accreditation the school must meet the AdvancED standards, engage in a continuous
process of improvement, and demonstrate quality assurance through internal and external review.
“The standards require that a school have a clear vision and purpose, effective and responsive leadership,
and a rigorous curriculum taught through sound, research-based methods. In addition, a school must collect,
report, and use performance results, provide adequate resources and support for its educational programs,
and communicate effectively with all stakeholders. To demonstrate continuous improvement, schools must
implement an improvement plan based on student performance and school/community data that include
clear goals for raising the achievement of all students. Schools also must document growth in student
performance and organizational effectiveness.”
(AdvancED, Advancing Excellence in Education Worldwide document, 2009)
Every five years, a school must host a Quality Assurance Review visit conducted by a team of professionals
selected by the accreditation agency. This year marks St. Mary’s fourth year in the process. In October of
2010, St. Mary’s will be undergoing this evaluation process. The team will examine evidence to determine if
we are meeting the standards and achieving goals for improving student learning and school effectiveness.
The St. Mary’s faculty and administration are looking forward to this review. In the last few years we have
been working very hard to achieve our student improvement and organizational effectiveness goals in
this accreditation cycle, to improve our facilities and expand our properties, and to gather relevant and
compelling evidence of our efforts, successes, and proof of excellence as we strive to provide a quality,
Catholic, Marianist education to every student in our midst.
Should you have any questions about the St. Mary’s accreditation process, please do not hesitate to contact
me. May God bless each and every parent, alum, and friend of SMHS. We could not do this without you!
Jane Goff
6 Clarion • Spring 2010

American Legion Missouri Boy’s Convention
St. Mary’s High School is pleased to announce the selection of two students to represent St. Mary’s
at the 2010 American Legion Missouri Boy’s State Convention. This Convention is sponsored by
the American Legion to develop leadership in students following their Junior Year. This year’s
delegates are Colin Cashner, Evan Cahn, and Sam Clancy. They will attend the sessions the week
of June 12th – 19rd at Central Missouri State University. They will be mentored by former delegates
and taught by leaders of education, business, law and
politics from throughout the state. We are honored to
be represented by the above mentioned students and
Embodied in Faith
wish them well during their experience at Boy’s State.
Empowered by Excellence
Embraced as Family
Enlightened through Service
Transformed for Life
St. Mary’s Class of 2010
Commencement Exercise
Saint Mary’s High School commencement exercises were
held at St. Anthony’s Parish on May 20, 2010. There were
eighty-four graduates. The graduation speaker was Father
Brad Modde who is leaving his ministry at Saint Mary’s and
moving on to parish work. He challenged the graduates
to use the seeds that have been planted in their future
endeavors, echoing Archbishop Romero’s famous words.
There were three Valedictorians: Scott Bridwell, Benjamin
Julius, and Anthony Puricelli. The class of 2010 earned
more scholarship money than any other in
St. Mary’s history. A special feature of this year’s
graduation was the awarding of a diploma posthumously
to Michael McMahon. His parents attended to receive the
diploma and a plant from the parents club. He is forever a
dragon and a member of the class of 2010.
We are pleased and honored that Americacn Legion
Posts 299 and 422 have supported St. Mary’s over the
years by sponsoring our students at Boy’s State. They
have been very good to St. Mary’s High School.
school news
Clarion • Spring 2010 7

school news
Solomon’s Project Gets “Wired Up”
by St. Mary’s Students
This winter three students for the Center for
Applied Sciences’ electrical studies classes
worked at The North Grand Neighborhood
Service’s “Solomon’s Project;” which is
the part of NGNS the organization that
rehabs and builds houses. The students,
senior Jamelle Johnson and juniors Cody
Benenberger and Robert Novara along
with Mr. Joe Miller and Mr. Larry Mattson
arrived at the house and greeted by Howard
McAuliffe, Executive Director of NGNS and
planned the work day. The house is nearly
complete and at this point needed the
electric receptacles, switches, lights, and
smoke detectors wired and installed. We
met with the project’s master electrician,
Henry, who showed the boys what to do and
inspected their work. The students worked
very hard and had the three-bedroom home
completely wired by mid-afternoon. Henry
was very impressed with the boy’s electrical
knowledge and talents! We’d like to thank
Henry for sharing his knowledge and skills
with the students and Howard for the pizza lunch!
Kirkwood’s Mark Petty “Energizes”
St. Mary’s Students
St. Mary’s students in several of Ms. Ranciglio’s classes were visited by Mark Petty, PE, Energy
Director for the City of Kirkwood, MO. Mr. Petty is an engineering graduate from MIT and has
worked for several energy companies
and now is leading Kirkwood’s efforts
to supply the residents of Kirkwood
with low cost, green, renewable energy
sources. In cooperation with Innovative
Energy Inc. (IEI) “Kirkwood Green” has
been established to use their gasification
technology to generate electricity using
biomass as fuel. Kirkwood will use its
yard waste and tree trimmings to supply
the biomass fuel. Mr. Petty spoke to
the students about the global need
for clean affordable energy and career
opportunities that are rapidly growing in
this field for engineers, researchers and
business entrepreneurs. He also stressed the importance of students entering college to work hard
in their studies and make smart life choices as they grow into men. St. Mary’s would like to thank
Mark for his time and wishes him good luck in this effort.
8 Clarion • Spring 2010

February 20, 2010
Wellness Symposium 2010
Welcome to students, parents, and teachers to our Wellness Symposium 2010, entitled “Shhhh! It’s a
secret! Opening Up a Can of Worms.” This is the twelfth annual Wellness Symposium for St. Mary’s
High School, and the fifth consecutive effort with Notre Dame High School.
This year, we want to dedicate our Wellness Symposium in memory of Bob Ebert, an alumni from
St. Mary’s who participated in and became a leader of this program. Bob died in October of 2009. He
worked hard to ensure the continued success of this Wellness Symposium. May we honor his memory
and his efforts this day, living out our faith, bringing new life from death.
Our goals for this Wellness Symposium are:
1. Educate participants on the various aspects of life that make life difficult.
2. Create an awareness of teen life with parents and teachers.
3. How to talk about secrets and what to do if secrets are bothering you or shouldn’t be kept.
Let us take this day, this Wellness Symposium, and be willing to engage each other so that we can
learn from each other. Let us give to each other, and ourselves, this day to learn, to grow in our
understanding of who we are, and how we give of ourselves in our relationships. May we come to
know deeper the loving God, who is present in ourselves and in each other.
Fr. Brad Modde
Chaplain, St. Mary’s High School
school news
Clarion • Spring 2010 9

student activites
kilper’s By Jean Kilper, Dean, Math & Science
l
u
math/science club visits
the city museum
b s
Members of the Math/Science Club enjoyed a Friday
evening, April 23, exploring the City Museum caves and
going down the 10 story slide. Having a war in the ball
pit was an action packed activity! Climbing the metal
structures outside and going down all the slides was
quite a challenge. The club also watched a short circus
act and crawled through a maze. It was great fun!
freshmen
class has booth
at earth day festival
After studying about global warming and how to become a greener planet, the freshmen
class participated in the Earth Day Festival held at Forest Park on Sunday, April 25. During
this cross-curricular unit, the freshmen class learned many facts about our environment and
how people can help save the earth from further damage. Every student was involved in a
project—a poster, a booklet, a child’s game, a green earth activity, a science experiment, or a
power point presentation. These items were then taken to the festival and displayed or used
in the St. Mary’s booth. When festival goers came to the booth, the freshmen would do an
experiment showing that humans breathe out carbon dioxide. Then the people could plant
a sunflower seed to take home and watch it grow and take in carbon dioxide while giving off
oxygen. Another experiment showed how acid (vinegar) destroys calcium products such as
sea shells and coral reefs--another effect of global warming on our ocean creatures. Games
such as earth basketball, recycle soccer, global warming concentration, and a green earth
board game were enjoyed by the children at the festival. Some of the freshmen class also
participated in cleaning up the park by picking up trash and recycling much of it. This was
the 4th year that the freshmen have had a booth at the festival and enjoyed educating the
children and their parents about global warming, recycling, and being a greener planet.
10 Clarion • Spring 2010

kilpers clubs continued
tree planting on
school grounds
The freshmen class got 10 river birth trees from the Missouri Conservation booth at the Earth Day
Festival. They then planted them at school to help beautify the grounds and to produce more oxygen.
equestrian club visits former
smhs students ranch
The club has been invited twice Mr. Martin Poetz, a 1959 SMHS graduate, to visit his horse ranch in
Pacific, MO, and learn more about horses and to improve their riding skills. The club members: Nakita
Karre, Khue Nguyen, and Caleb Reininger, first learned about the care of horses and tack. Then Mr.
Poetz taught them to saddle, halter, and bridle a horse. Each
student took care of his horse and got it ready to ride. Mr.
Poetz then gave them riding lessons in his arena. Students then
took care of taking off the saddle, storing it properly, brushing
the horse, and putting it out in the pasture. Dinner was then
enjoyed by all, who had experienced a hard day on the ranch!
Plans have been made for the club to do some work around the
ranch in exchange for more riding lessons this summer. The club
is very grateful to Mr. Poetz for giving them this opportunity to
really learn to care for horses and to improve their riding skills.
(All articles were written by
Jean Kilper—faculty member
and club sponsor at SMHS.)
student activites
Clarion • Spring 2010 11

cover story
Campus Expansion Dedication
“Our greatest pride is our Catholic School system!
We have one of the most extensive and well organized school systems
in the United States. Offering affordable, quality Catholic education to
Catholic and non-Catholic alike is my first priority.”
St. Mary’s welcomed Archbishop Robert
Carlson on March 24th for our celebration of
the Eucharist in anticipation of the Feast of the
Annunciation and for a Blessing of our Campus
Expansion. Archbishop Carlson has made it
abundantly clear that Catholic Education is
his first priority as he leads the Church in St.
Louis. We are grateful to him for his ongoing
commitment and for the encouragement he gives
to us in our most important mission of educating
young men in the Marianist Tradition.
The Archbishop’s visit afforded us a great opportunity to acknowledge the efforts which
have been made toward our ongoing campus expansion and to thank some of our most
faithful alumni and benefactors who have made it all possible. Ten years ago our Principal,
Mr. Kevin Hacker, began working with our Board of Directors to imagine what was possible
and necessary for the future of St. Mary’s High School. Beginning with the acquisition of
St. Joseph’s chapel we have seen the doubling of our campus and the expansion of our
curriculum to meet the demands of 21st century teaching and learning. It is important that
the acquisition and renovation of the chapel was the first priority; that labor of love has led
to everything else that we continue to see unfolding all around us.
It is always a blessing to
see the connection that
already exists between
our alumni and our
current students; so
many great men remain
faithful to their alma
mater and committed
to making it possible
for future dragons to
follow in their footsteps.
12 Clarion • Spring 2010

During the event we announced the new names associated with various aspects of our
expansion efforts. This is a small way to acknowledge our donors’ generosity, but more
importantly a way to communicate our mission less in words spoken and more in lives lived.
Morton Sports Park, Divis Field, The Dennis P. Long Soccer Practice Facility, The James
C. Conrads Tennis Center, The Thomas Schueck Center For Applied Sciences, Kresko-
Miller Field, The R V Wagner Courtyard and The Kevin L. Hacker Center For 21st Century
Learning all tell our story in lives of hard work, integrity, faithfulness and a deep love for the
mission of St. Mary’s High School. If our young men who walk these sacred grounds today
can aspire to be like the men whose names are inscribed throughout our campus, then they
will indeed become true sons of Mary.
The event was a great success, with over 500 in attendance,
thank you to all who helped make this event possible.
cover story
Clarion • Spring 2010 13

cover story
Each of the benefactors and alumni that made this and other expansions possible
were honored and/or given a Marianist Medal during the ceremony
to commemorate their hard work and dedication to the mission of
St. Mary’s High School.
Marianist Medal Awarded
to those individuals
that made the campus
expansion possible.
Archbishop Robert Carlson
Mayor Francis Slay ’73
Lynn Barnett ’66
Greg Divis ’58
Kevin Hacker
George Henry
Donald Kozeny ’53
Dennis Long ’53
John McArthur ’66
Roy “Duffy” Morton ’53
Sam Orlando ’58
Scott Puettmann ’71
Dick Ross ’54
Bill Schicker ’52
Jack Villa ’60
Richard Wagner ’53
Fred Wessel ’64
14 Clarion • Spring 2010

Dennis P. Long Soccer
Practice Facility
Divis Field
James C. Conrad Tennis Center
Kresko/Miller Field
cover story
Morton Sports Park
R.V. Wagner Courtyard
Faculty and Staff Pavilion
Clarion • Spring 2010 15

dragons sports
Dragon All-State Wide Receiver
Wins Carondelet
Athletic Association Scholarship
By: Coach Alex DeMatteis
St. Mary’s High School has had a number of
prominent athletes throughout its history,
and current Senior Kyle Weis of the class
of 2010 can easily be added to that list, as
one memorable football season solidified
his place among the Dragon greats. Weis
played multiple sports during his early days
here at St. Mary’s participating in both
basketball and baseball on the lower levels,
but Weis will forever be remembered for
his performance on the gridiron as a Wide
Receiver and Outside Linebacker for the
Dragon’s Football Team.
Weis’ evolution in the world of football
was quite impressive. As a freshman, Kyle
saw limited time on the freshman football
team, and steadily improved over his
four year career. As a junior, Weis found
himself starting on the Varsity Football Team as an Outside Linebacker, only for an injury to claim
the second half of his season. Weis went to work in the off-season leading up to his senior campaign
and through weight training and a careful diet, he was able to put on 25 pounds while improving
his strength and speed. Weis did not play a down at wide receiver in a game until his senior season
where he exploded on the scene breaking every single season receiving record at St. Mary’s. Weis
caught 64 passes for 913 yards and 11 touchdowns. Defensively Weis played outside linebacker and
recorded 50 tackles, had 1 sack, and 4 interceptions. Weis earned 1st Team All-Conference honors
at Wide Receiver and 2nd Team All-Conference honors at Linebacker. Weis was also named the
AAA Conference Back of the Year. Weis later learned that he was named 1st Team All-State in class
4A and became Coach Parent’s first 1st Team-All State player in his 11 year tenure. In addition to all
of Weis’ athletic success, he has remained on the honor roll for 6 consecutive semesters and has
loaded his course schedule with a number of honors and college credit courses.
Weis’ achievements were recognized this spring by the Carondelet Athletic Association, as Weis was
awarded an $8,000 scholarship. The Carondelet Athletic Association sold their property on Grand
and Loughborough, outside of Carondelet Park, to developers who have since built Loughborough
Commons. With the money the Association collected for their property, the members of the
Carondelet Athletic Association established a scholarship fund for local high school athletes who are
in good academic standing, are intending to participate in collegiate athletics, and who may have a
need for financial assistance in college. Weis was honored at the Carondelet Athletic Association’s
Scholarship Banquet this spring, along with a hand full of other local high school athletes.
Weis will attend Lake Forest College in Lake Forest, IL, which is about 30 miles north of Chicago.
Lake Forest College participates in NCAA Division III athletics where Weis will join the Forester’s
Football Team there in the fall. St. Mary’s would like to congratulate Weis and his parents Matt and
Terry for a job well done. Weis is a well accomplished student-athlete here at St. Mary’s and we wish
him luck in all his future endeavors as we look to hear great things out of Weis and the Foresters this
coming football season.
16 Clarion • Spring 2010

Varsity Basketball Dragons 2009-2010
By: Coach Alex DeMatteis
The Basketball Dragons finished the regular season with a 14-11
overall record, 6-5 in aaa conference play. The season marked
the return of senior Alex Brewer who started as a sophomore but
sat out last year due to injury. He returned as the second leading
scorer (14.7) On the team and led the conference in rebounds. Alex
was selected first team all conference. Jonathan Connelly led the
team with 15.8 points per game and Kevin
Brotherton made 64 three pointers and
led the team in steals both of whom were
selected 2nd Team All-Conference.
Coach Vogel and I would like to thank the
seniors: Sam Alvino (captain), Alex Brewer,
Evan Fox, Tony Lilson, and Tony Newton for
all of their hard work and leadership they
will be missed. We look forward to returning
juniors Kyle Bialczak, Kevin Brotherton,
Dillon Lore, Zach Pudlowski, Nick Sahuri and
sophomores Jonathan Connelly and Trevor
Rakers along with the “B” team to improve
next season.
Freshman “White” Basketball Team
Wrap Up
By: Coach Alex DeMatteis
The Freshman “White” Basketball Team had
a season full of challenges and triumphs, but
found a way to stay competitive throughout the
year and stayed the course of learning to adjust
to high school basketball. The team ended
the season with a record of 5-12. The season
highlights include a win over rival Bishop
DuBourg and a two game sweep of John F.
Kennedy High School. The Freshman “White”
Team was lead by Head Coach Mark Hacker
and assisted by Coach Alex DeMatteis. The
team was comprised of forwards Adam Bieber,
Trevor Follis, Luke Guy, Brad Harris, and Jordin
Ray. The team’s guard play came from Conor
Cashner, Loren Dattoli, Kevin Hennessey,
Lawrence Prograis, and John Specker. The
coaching staff looks for this group of young men to continue to
express their blue collar work ethic in the off season and look forward
to see them on the court in the future.
Clarion • Spring 2010 17
dragons sports

advancement news
A Mission Visit
By: Eric G. Eckhardt ‘61
In April of 1965, my military duties took me from the Canal Zone in Panama to Bolivia with an
overnight rest and refueling stop in Lima, Peru. On the trip from the airport to my hotel in Lima, I
was wondering what I would do with my free time. I’d been up since 3:00 am and it was now about
3:00 pm. Crashing out in the hotel room for a few hours seemed like the logical choice. Somehow,
as I was deciding on what to do, I happened to recalled stories the brothers and priests at St. Mary’s
had related about their missionary work in the Lima area. Several of my teachers had been or were
schedules to be posted to the Marianist mission in Peru. I thought it would be great to maybe even
see some of my former teachers.
Hailing a cab in downtown Lima, I tried to use my limited Spanish while recalling anything the brothers
had said which would give me a clue as to where to go in this city of million plus. It was like a scene
from the current TV show “Amazing Race” except without competing teams. My competition was the
clock, a foreign language, and complete lack of any directions or specific address. All I could recall
was that the brothers had talked of a high school in a section of Lima called “Monto Rico.” Somehow
after a lengthy cab ride and discussion with the unfortunate driver I managed to arrive at the school
despite my linguistic inability. The Brother who greeted me was completely surprised by his visitor
from not only the US by St. Louis and St. Mary’s! I explained the purpose of my visit and was informed
unfortunately that there were no brothers from St. Mary’s in the area. There was, he said, a priest
who might know serving at a parish in Lima, Fr. Bernard Blemker.
I had known Fr. Blemker quite well. He had been the Chaplain, Sodality Moderator, and one of my
Latin teachers while I was at St. Mary’s. Father had lost some of his remaining hair listening to my
feeble attempted 3rd year Latin translations. As an answer to his prayers, however, and that of my
fellow students, I did not continue with a 4th year of latin.
The brother telephoned and found our Father was not at the rectory but was scheduled to return
shortly. After serving some welcomed and refreshing ice-tea and cookies we were off driving to meet
Father at his downtown parish.
We arrived at the parish rectory just as Fr. Blemker was returning from his afternoon work The two
of us approached Father. He immediately recognized the brother from Monto Rico but with me he
wasn’t quite sure. A faint expression of recognition appeared on Father’s face followed then by a
look of puzzlement, surprise, and finally jubilation. I introduced myself with something like, “Father
you probably don’t remember me but…” He responded almost simultaneously “Remember you Of
course I remember you Eric!” with his big grin, “but what are you doing here”
I briefly explained to Father my stop in Lima. He was utterly surprised and happy to see a friendly
face from his years at St. Mary’s. He couldn’t get over the idea that I would take the time to see him.
He had a previous commitment that evening but we had enough time for a visit. Father insisted that
he drive me back to the hotel. I continued my update and we renewed our times at St. Mary’s for the
next 30 minutes as Father skillfully drove like a native through the downtown maze of traffic.
Arriving too quickly at my hotel, I thanked Father for the ride and more importantly for all of his
assistance while I was at St. Mary’s. We exchanged our final good-byes and he was off into the sea of
early evening Lima traffic, returning to his mission parish.
It had been a long and hectic day for me, but Fr. Blemker’s reaction made any small effort on my part
well worth it. The older I get, unfortunately, the more I wish I would have made a greater effort to
always thank those who have assisted me on my life’s journey. I was most fortunate to have had the
opportunity to visit and thank Fr. Blemker that afternoon, a time long ago, in a place far away from
St. Mary’s High School.
“Requiescant in Pace.”
18 Clarion • Spring 2010

St. Mary’s Alum Elected Mayor of Sunset Hills
Alderman William J. Nolan ’60 was elected Mayor of Sunset Hills this past April
in a highly contested race with incumbent Mayor Mike Svoboda. Nolan won the
election with a slim 11% margin, “I’d like to thank all the people who voted for me,”
said Nolan. “I can’t thank the people of Sunset Hills enough. What a marvelous city
we live in.” Nolan, 67, was elected Ward 1 alderman a year ago. He is president of
Interior Planning Associates, doing business as Nolan Office Interiors for the past
26 years, and a 21-year resident of Sunset Hills. Congratulations William, may you
continue to serve as an example of what St. Mary’s Men are capable of.
Scholarship Given in Memory of Alumnus
By: Mary Schillinger
Our father, Eugene Coughlin, graduated from St. Mary’s High School in 1947. His time
at St. Mary’s was very influential in his life and he always talked fondly of his high
school years. Our parents believed very strongly in Catholic education and made sure
all six of their children attended Catholic schools.
Last year for our Father’s 80th birthday, we wanted to set up a scholarship in his
name to help a young man receive an education at St. Mary’s High School. Eugene
passed away three weeks before his birthday but we felt this was the perfect way to
honor our dad.
We know he would be very happy and proud.
Kevin Coughlin, Cathy Coughlin, James Coughlin, Dan Coughlin,
Mick Coughlin, Mary Eileen (Coughlin) Schillinger
James C. Conrads ‘37
By: Kevin Hacker
St. Mary’s is deeply saddened to announce the death James C. Conrads class of
1937. Mr. Conrads was born on June 15, 1919. He graduated from St. Mary’s (which
was South Side Catholic at that time) in 1937. Mr. Conrads was actively involved in
the Catholic Church and was inducted as a Knight of the Equestrian Order of the
Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem for his dedication. Both he and his wife were also
invested in their communities and established the Conrads Family Fund and the
Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta to provide grants to various charitable
organizations.
His charitable nature also extended back to his Alma Mater:
“Over the last ten years St. Mary’s has built an endowment of one million dollars. Interest from this
endowment has enabled us to help our families to afford Catholic Education. Mr. James C. Conrads
has been a generous supporter of this endowment. In the short story The Bridges At Toko-Ri by
James Michener, an admiral makes a comment on the men who pilot the planes that take off and
land on the carrier in transit to and from many a dangerous mission. He says, “Where do we get
such men” We at St. Mary’s can ask the same question when thinking about Mr. Conrads. For many
years he has made certain that our students were able to experience the gift of Catholic Education.
Without a doubt all of us can say that James C. Conrads was truly a “gift” to the students of St.
Mary’s High School. He and the entire Conrads Family will continue to be in our thoughts and
prayers.”
-Kevin Hacker
Mr. Conrads was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Virginia “Jinny” Conrads, in April, 2009.
Survivors include brother-in-law, Paul Rafter; children, Karen Conrads Wibell and her husband, Peter
O. Wibell, Heitzso, Linda A. Conrads, Nancy Conrads Pendergast, Michael C. Conrads and his wife,
Cindy Beatty Conrads; grandchildren, Katie and Sarah Wibell, Aaron and Michael Harden, Tripp, Jim,
Meghan, and David Pendergast, Nick and Jenny Conrads.
advancement news
Clarion • Spring 2010 19

advancement news
Cast of ’73 visits Mr. Roberts production
By: Jeremy Curran
The Spring play, Mister Roberts, was
a huge success for the theatre this
year. The play ran from February
24th-February 27th and sold out every
night. Members from Rich Contini’s cast
from 1973 joined current members on
stage for a photo opportunity after the
show (Noteables were John Ruzicka who
played Stefanowski in ‘73 and his son,
Jack, who starred as Ensign Pulver in the
current production of the show). The
alumni really enjoyed the performance
and were delighted in the fact that
St. Mary’s theatre was keeping Rich
Contini’s legacy alive. His motto: “Do it
big, do it right and give it class” is still
said before every performance. Current director, Jeremy Curran states that, “his goal was never
to replace our directors but to honor their body of work and maintain the amazing theatre history
that we have at St. Mary’s...I have always wanted our alumni to feel proud that they were part of
this theatre after seeing one of our current productions.” Mr. Curran began attending St. Mary’s in
1996 and served as theatre President in the year 2000. Mister Roberts was Curran’s 10th show as
director. A production of the Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award winning play, Proof, is planned for the
Fall. Contact St. Mary’s High School or curranj@stmaryshs.com for additional information.
Hall of Fame Inductees
By: The Advancement Office
St. Mary’s was proud to celebrate our 10th Hall of Fame induction on March 20, 2010.
Congratulations to those alumni and thank you for being extraordinary examples of what
St. Mary’s men are.
2010 HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES
Dick Armbruster ‘48 (posthumously) • Martin Duggan ‘38 • Frank Bommarito ‘52 • Joe Garagiola ‘43
Bob Radomski ‘48 • Dan Ketherside ‘66 • Joe Plassmeyer ‘75 • Marty Plassmeyer ‘80
Jim Robben ‘87 • Rick Mullen ‘91 • Marquis Williams ‘93 • The 1957 Football Team
Brother Francis Heyer
Celebrates His Jubilee
From 1958-1999, Brother Francis Heyer served as staff
here at St. Mary’s High School. He was among the last
Marianist Brothers to teach at the school. In April Brother
Heyer celebrated his Jubilee, 70 years of religious life.
Congratulations and thank you Brother Heyer for such an
inspiring dedication and life in Christ.
Left to right: Jerome Heyer, Brother Heyer, Kevin Hacker
20 Clarion • Spring 2010

Planned Giving
“They all ate and were satisfied. And when the leftover fragments were picked
up, they filled twelve wicker baskets.” Luke 9:17
Because of St. Mary’s High School, many of us have been blessed with a
faith-formed education that helped us build our careers, wealth, and most
importantly, families. As people of faith, we know the responsibility of
providing the same opportunities that we had for future generations. Please
reflect upon the blessings of your life and the value that St. Mary’s and Our
Lady had upon it. During our current economic situation it may be difficult
to give an outright cash donation for the Mission of St. Mary’s High School;
however, one way that you can show your gratitude and support, without
using present cash-flow, is through “planned giving.” This form of gift is critical
for the Mission of St. Mary’s and will transform future generations. Likewise,
a planned gift is a living legacy of your commitment to quality Catholic
education, and is a witness of your desire to be a good steward of the gifts
God has given you. A planned gift may have some financial tax benefits for
you and can add protection to your assets. Planned gifts and some of their
potential benefits include:
• Gift of real estate or residence – Immediate income tax deduction and
estate tax savings
• Gift Annuities – Immediate income tax deduction and reduction of capital
gains tax
• Investments – Tax deduction on current market value and avoid capital
gains tax
• Life Insurance – Tax deduction for premiums and estate tax savings
• IRA’s/Qualified Retirement Plans/US Savings Bonds – Income and estate
tax savings
• Charitable Remainder Trusts – Immediate income tax deduction and
reduction of capital gains tax
• Charitable Lead Trusts – Principal and accumulated income passes on to
beneficiaries
If you have any questions you can contact me, Joseph Divis, Associate Director
of Advancement, at 314-481-8400 x112. Thank you in advance for your prayerful
consideration of such a noble commitment to St. Mary’s.
advancement news
Clarion • Spring 2010 21

advancement news
2010-11 Scheduled Meetings:
August 19, 2010 Meeting
October 21, 2010 Meeting
December 2, 2010 Christmas Party
February 18, 2011 Meeting
April 21, 2011 Meeting
St. Mary’s Alumni Association
Mr. Tony Davis ‘91 • President
Mr. Mike Lowe ‘73 • Vice President
Mr. George Simon ‘86 • Treasurer
Mr. Mark Rolf ‘98 • Asst. Treasurer
Mr. Charles Schwartz ‘96 • Interim Secretary
ARE YOU A MEMBE R W ELL, WHAT ARE YOU WAIT ING FOR
MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION
Name _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Graduation Year_________________
Home Address _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
City _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ State ____________________________ Zip ______________________________________________
Phone ____________________________________________________________________________________________ Business Phone __________________________________________________________________________________
Occupation ____________________________________________________________________________________ E-Mail Address _______________________________________________________________________________
Annual Membership Dues: $25
Make Check Payable To:
2010-11 Special Events:
September 4, 2010 Golf Tournament
October 8, 2010 Champions Night
November 13, 2010 St. Mary’s Auction
February 11, 2011 Alumni Basketball Game
St. Mary’s Alumni Association
4701 S. Grand Blvd.
St. Louis, MO 63111
314-481-8400
e-mail: advancementoffice@stmaryshs.com
Big Bass Tournament Results
Under warm but rainy skies, the 7th Annual Alumni Fishing Tournament was held on May 15 at
Red Oak Resort in Lake of the Ozarks. Twenty nine boats set sail for that elusive “Big Bass.”
Twenty two boats weighed in fish, with the winning boat of Steve Fabick and Tony Sieve (both
Class of ‘03), weighing 16.7 pounds of bass.
Craig and Jay Hood won the Big Bass award with a 4.8 pounder. Top honor for the biggest-ugliest
fish went to Adam Chierek, with a 16.3 pound flat-head catfish.
Special thanks goes to Tom and Mark Rolf, who were the master grillers and took care of the
barbeque duties while everyone was fishing.
A great time was had by all. Mark your calendars for the 8th Annual Tournament on May 21, 2011.
22 Clarion • Spring 2010

St. Mary’s High School In The News
For complete links to articles check out our website at www.stmaryshs.com/inthenews.
Suburban Journals
‘57 football champs take a bow at HOF program
March 16, 2010
http://suburbanjournals.stltoday.com/articles/2010/03/16/south/sports/0317sc-stmarys1.txt
Suburban Journals
Dragons skate to six wins in a row
December 8, 2009
http://suburbanjournals.stltoday.com/articles/2009/12/08/south/sports/1209sc-stmaryshockey.txt
Suburban Journals
Essay contest winners receive tuition scholarships
February 2, 2010
http://suburbanjournals.stltoday.com/articles/2010/02/02/south/education/0203sc-schnews0.txt
Suburban Journals
School News; In Other News
February 16, 2010
http://suburbanjournals.stltoday.com/articles/2010/02/16/south/education/0217sc-schbrfs0.txt
Suburban Journals
Your town for Feb. 24, St. Louis
February 23, 2010
http://suburbanjournals.stltoday.com/articles/2010/02/23/south/news/0224sc-yourtown0.txt
The St. Louis Review
Laity Live Marianist Spirituality at St. Mary’s High School
February 3, 2010
http://stlouisreview.com/article/2010-02-03/laity-live-marianist-
advancement news
Clarion • Spring 2010 23

Clarion
St. Mary’s High School
4701 S. Grand Blvd.
St. Louis, MO 63111
www.stmaryshs.com
NON-PROFIT ORG.
US POSTAGE
PAID
JEFFERSON CITY, MO
PERMIT NO. 210
Change Service Requested
Parents of alumni,
If your son no longer lives at this
address, please call 314.481.8400
to update his record.
Look for the next issue of the
Clarion in the Fall of 2010.
St. Mary’s students celebrate mass at the Campus Expansion Dedication