2004 Spring

VOLUME XII, ISSUE 1 The Voice of the South High School Alumni Association
Spring 2004

STEVE CAVLOVIC He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of considerable talent and energies to helping
Fame in 2003 for his outstanding others. Thanks Steve and congratulations
There are many I contributions to the sport. jor all the fine honors you have received.
reasons to
honor Steve Then we have Steve's tireless community BETTE ERCA SWANSON
Cavlovic-1950 . involvement. He has been a member of the
Omaha Softball Association Board of Bette Erca Swanson-1946 made her debut
We could note Directors for 8 years; co-developer and with the Bellevue Little Theater
his outstanding owner of Corrigan Senior (BLT) in its second production,
athletic career, Housing Complex and co- "Love Rides the Rails" at the
beginning owner of Corrigan Senior Bellevue Queen restaurant in
with midget Center, which are both Haworth Park. She played a
ball for non-profit organizations. brash mama, Beulah Belle, and
Johnny's Cafe I He developed the H.P. Smith sang "I'm the Last of the Red
in 1945, Fr. Sports Training Complex for Hot Mamas."
Miller Feed- SHS and South Omaha
Mill midget ball 1946, youth. He is chair of the SHS This was fitting as that is still
Sts. Peter & Paul Grade School and CYO 1989 Centennial Scholarship how she is billed today since
teams 1945-46, Metz Legion Champions Program which has awarded her passion for the BLT has
and #8 in the USA in 1947, Metz Legion $50,000 in scholarships to inspired her to lift the theater
Champions Final 4 - World Series in 1948; SHS students to date. Steve to the level of stature it has
and SHS Baseball team 1947 through 1950. also serves as President and achieved in the community.
In 1949 he played in the Nebraska Director of the Ritonya She is described as the driving force
Independent League at Hastings, and Buscher Poehling Scholarship Program, behind the Theater's success, and her pursuit
Douglas Sarpy Cass League in Springfield, which has donated $310,000 since 1977 for of quality has been described by her
NE. After the 1950 College World Series, students from SHS, Bryan, Gross High husband as "genetic."
after tryouts, Steve signed a conh'act to play School, and South Omaha Boys & Girls
for the Brooklyn Dodgers, and in 1950 and Clubs, and to Metropolitan Omaha teachers. It goes back to Bette growing up with her
1951 he played in the Brooklyn System He was inducted into the SHS Hall of Fame five siblings above their parents' grocery
KOM League in Ponca City, OK. In 1952 in 1990 and was a founding member and
he played for the Army Camp Crowder Board Member of the SHS Alumni store at 32nd and "s" Street across from St.
Baseball Team, and in 1953 and 1954 he Association.
was part of the Ft. Leonard Wood Special Anthony's Church in South Omaha. The
Services Team as well as the Jefferson City, In 1995 he received the Knights of Ak-Sar- family was musical, playing a variety of
Missouri Semipro Team. He also played for Ben Ike Friedman award for outstanding instruments while Bette, described as having
the Stockyard Indians, Mainelli Conshuction community service. He was recognized in a beautiful voice, sang. Bette took an
and Ralston Town Team at various times. 1997 by United Way of the Midlands as the interest in journalism, theater arts and
And it continues - 1956 through 1968 he Year's Outstanding Volunteer. music, excelling in her studies. In high
played fast pitch softball for Whicomb 's school, she exhibited a flair for fashion that
Tavern, Falstaff, Jake's Bar, Joe Tess, Steve and Marylou Stanesic (daughter of would later become important in her career.
Darby's and Wilsons. He also coached the John Stanesic, Baseball Old-timer's honoree She graduated from SHS at age 16.
Darby's softball team for five years. in 1965 and umpire-in-chief in Omaha for
20 years) Cavlovic have been married for 47 After graduation, Bette attended Midland
From 1957 though 1965 he coached the Sts. years and have three daughters: Cheryl in Lutheran College in Fremont. She met her
Peter & Paul Grade School team. He then Austin, TX; Connie in Omaha and Denise in husband, Ed Swanson, in the church choir at
coached the Sts. Peter & Paul Girls ' Grade Kansas City, MO. St. Luke 's Lutheran Church at 24th and "I"
School Softball program and started one of Sh'eet in 1948 and they were married the
the first Intramural Girls' Softball Programs The world, especially the South Omaha next year. They had four children, Ric,
in Omaha for 5-6-7-8 Grades with more community, is certainly a better place Marty, Chris and Jan.
than 100 girls participating. because Steve Cavlovic has devoted his
(continued on page 2)

PAGE 2 SOllth High School ALUMNI TOOTER

SOUTH HIGH SCHOOL
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Dick Gulizia 330-3954
Executive Director

Sue Smith 738 -9493
Office Secretary
Here we are starting our eleventh year as appreciate your help in buying or selling
your Alumni Association. Your Board of these items. We encourage all alumni to Steve Andersen 731 -6359
Directors held two meetings since our last donate to our scholarship fund when you
report and was thrilled with the enthusiastic hold your annual reunions, and to remember Carmela Brooks 896-0284
response to our successful golf tournament your loved ones and classmates (living and
held on July 13 at Tregaron Golf Course in deceased) by donating funds in their Jason Calek 343-9384
Papillion. We also held successful memory or honor. We will mail
membership drives and a successful lottery approximately 19,000 copies of this Jackie Casper 496-9818
and thank you for your much needed TOOTER edition.
support. Ron Cerone - Vice President 896-1631
Alumni news and the latest TOOTER can be
We set the dates for the 2004 Bowling obtained at the Alumni Association website: Dave Cisar 798-0441
Tournament and Spaghetti Dinner (March www.omahasouthhighalumni.com. or keep
20). We will review and grant teacher up with school events at the SHS website: Julie Diehm 293-1719
requests for funds to enhance school www.ops.orglsouth .
programs and projects. We established Lori Hunter 298-7530
Decades Committees for the 1970s and We can use your help for our Membership,
1980s; if you would like to serve on these Fundraising, Political Action, Calling and Sandie Knudsen - Vice President 991-3113
committees, please contact the office. We Advertising Committees. Also, if you
scheduled our first Poker Run for May 8, would like to edit future TOOTERS, please Scott Knudsen 991-3113
and our Golf Tournament for July 11 . We let us know. Please call the office at 738-
also scheduled our first Pie Sale in 9493 to volunteer to help on current projects Paul Kracher - Vice President 322-8700
conjunction with Village Inn. You will if you find yourself with any free time. We
notice flyers in regard to these activities in need your input, support and encouragement John Krayneski - President 734-6617
this edition of your TOOTER. We continue and look forward to serving you.
to sell alumni clothing items, ads for our Judi Limas - Secretary 334-1227
TOOTER and bricks for the H.P. Smith Respectfully submitted,
Sports Complex memorial and would Judi Limas, Secretary John Novak 740-5109

Jerry Portelfield - Treasurer 731-3129

George Reid 334-8375

Dean Rezac 733-6788

Vic Riha 298-1272

Patty Svajgl 733 -4117

Judy Tesar 334-2299

Rudy Tesar 334-2299

Evelyn Winther 558-3840

SHS REPRESENTATIVES 557-3600

Nancy Faber
Jim Eisenhardt
Gary Kastrick

(continued ji'om page 1) Awards). The awards recognize the best SHS ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
local theater talent both on and behind the MISSION STATEMENT
When her youngest child was 10, Bette stage as voted by TAG members. This
went to work. She spent 21 years as a record was bested the following year when Our mission is to:
buyer of women's sportswear for seven 31 nominations were logged. Last season's
Phillips Department Stores. But she "Romeo and Juliet" earned seven awards, • Organize, develop and build a
always appreciated the arts, singing with including best drama of the year and a best dynamic group of Alumni.
the Omaha Symphonic Chorus and active director award for Cathy Wells-Venta.
on its governing board. Her connection • Promote the success of SHS, its
with the theater from actress to producer, The Bellevue Little Theater needed a "Red students and faculty through a variety
publicity agent, ticket sales chair, play Hot Mama" - and they got one in Bette of events, projects and scholarships.
reading and future planning, and much Erca Swanson. For her outstanding
more continues today. She's been such a conhibutions to the Bellevue Community, SPOTLIGHT ON BOARD MEMBERS
stickler for quality that she has raised the she was named 1993 Person of the Year by
Bellevue Little Theater to new heights. In the Bellevue Leader. We are proud Bette is
July 1991, the Theater earned 27 a SHS Outstanding Alumnus. (Excerpts
nominations for Theah'e Arts Guild Awards from the Bellevue Leader 1- 12-94.)
(the Omaha equivalent of Academy

Visit us on the web at: We are pleased to welcome three new
members to the SHS Alumni Association
www.omahasouthhighalumni.com Board of Directors (pictures left to right)
Carmela Brooks-1963, Evelyn Winther-
1972, Patty Svajgl-1970.

South High School ALUMNI TOOTER PAGE 3

By Janet Crofford Katz hasn't Windsor Castle. It was also the day of
heard Prince William's 21st birthday party which
When is the best time to h'avel to from was also at Windsor Castle - so there was a
Africa? During Terrorist Alert "Wendy" flurry of activity which was fun to observe.
season of course! Margaret yet! We had learned that the theme of his party
Sova-1961, Janet Crofford was "Out of Africa," and his date was
Kafz-1961 and daughter, Tanja In Kenya we Jessica Craig, the daughter of the owner of
Katz, did just that for three h'aveled to the conservancy where we were going to be
weeks in June/July 2003. At three different staying. When we arrived at the Massai-run
the time of our departure, the bush camps. The conservancy, we leamed that our driver had
airport in Nairobi, Kenya first one was run
had been closed due to by an American, escorted Prince William and Harry around
security concerns, so we Mike Rainey. He, as when they had stayed there (our driver
re-routed to Entebbe and he calls it, is an "age- did not recognize them until he was
then took Kenya Airways mate" of ours (not Tanja's!) and actually told who they were). We also found
into Nairobi. The only lived in Omaha when he was about seven out that we were staying in
problems we had on our years old. He 's been in Africa since he was the very room that William
h'ip were due to the airlines 23 and has an American wife and family. stayed (we had our pick of
(no food, lost luggage, and He was quite the character but so very 11 rooms because the camp
claims that Tanja didn't have a knowledgeable, and what a time we had! At only entertains one group at
ticket). I believe the airlines are the real times our jeep was surrounded by elephants. a time, no matter how small).
terrorists of this world! Uganda and Kenya, We spent hours watching giraffes, zebras, Our accommodations were
on the other hand, were true paradises. In wildebeests, etc. We had a hilarious architecturally amazing. One
Uganda, our driver, Richard, took us to the encounter with a group of vultures fighting whole side of the room is
source of the Nile River in Jinga where we over a zebra carcass. When Mr. Macho open to the elements and
accidentally met with a Chinese delegation Vulture flew in, all of the rest of the vultures nestled among the
including the Ugandan ambassador to instantly quit fighting, became very quiet, mountains (they move
China. Margaret, being Margaret, just had and looked away while Mr. Macho finished the bed to the outside
to get us all in a circle and celebrate all of the feast. We had many adventures with patio at night). Of
our countries together. They laughed and Mike that I will never forget. This camp course that means the
laughed, and I'm sure they thought we were had the most modest accommodations, but it bathroom, too - we didn't
nuts! (They did invite us to China next year was probably the most charming, not to need to bring reading
with free room and board!!) We traveled on mention the best food. The employees were
and took pictures on the Equator. We also delightful and one night they took us to their material when we sat down-instead we
wandered about the city of Kampala while Massai village. They live in mud huts, and watched animals feeding from a sh'eam
we waited for a tire to be fixed . You should there are cows, goats, sheep, donkeys and down the way. It was said that William
see what people carryon their bicycles- dogs. What an eye-opener! dubbed the bathroom as "the 100 with the
one man was carrying two calves!! We view," and we can also say we sat on the
finally arrived in Kabale where our driver Our h'ip seemed to be followed by Ptince Prince's throne!
has his tourist office and met a host of new William's shadow. We had a day in London
friends. They were so excited that we had on the way to Africa, so we spent it visiting Surprises we encountered:
come in spite of the terrorist wamings. We
spent the next day on very rough roads • We were south of the Equator, so it was
heading toward Bwindi Impenetrable winter, which meant that there were no
Forest- the land of the endangered mosquitoes and almost no bugs. For the
silverback gorillas. We spent the next two most part the weather was like Phoenix in
days h'ekking the gorillas and, in some February- warm in the afternoon but
cases, were able to be just a few yards away chilly in morning and evening and really,
from them. They romped, they played, they really cold in the open jeeps.
mothered, and, yes, they mated. It was so
wonderful and WOW do we have video!! • Everything was so clean and spotless at
The accommodations at GOlilia Camp were the bush camps and conservancies. Our
out of this world, and we were treated like driver got out of the jeep and picked up
royalty. While staying there, we stumbled any small piece of trash he saw.
upon a musical performance presented by an
orphan school. We spotted a boy we had • Outdoor toilets are spotless, very well
talked to the night before, so by the end of maintained and do not smell. (America
the night, Tanja had adopted 13-year-old are you listening!) Bucket showers were
Brian. She has received two letters from actually somewhat enjoyable.
him so far. She also adopted an elephant at
an animal orphanage in Kenya, but she (continued on page 4)

PAGE 4 South High Scbool ALUMNI TOOTER

(continued ji-om page 3) Except in Nairobi (4 million people) we how much these countries keep track of
• There is nothing disposable in their couldn't buy a tee shirt-can you believe United States politics because it affects them
that? But we watched the women weave greatly. Lack of American tourism has put
society-no plastic or paper. If they can't baskets with their handy little hand-made many people out of work. People thanked us
"make" it, they don't have it. (Plastic bags hooks. By the way, we haven't figured out over and over for coming to visit. Margaret,
are revered!) what the men do except sit in fi:ont of the Tanja and I will never forget the great
hut! experiences on "The Dark Continent" that
• They (the women) make fire from charcoal certainly lit up our lives. Margaret has
trees. We also were surprised at how much Uganda mailed photos to many of the people that we
is trying to improve their sad situation since met along the way, and she has continued to
• They (the women) build their huts from the days of Idi Amin. Everywhere we went, e-mail our dear friend and driver, Richard, of
termite mounds, sticks and mud. we saw billboards, song and dance Uganda. She is also nudging me into
presentations and so on, stressing the need believing that Namibia is the place to visit
• Toys are hand made by the child who wants for education, reducing abuse, eliminating next. Tanja is ready to set up a vet shop in
the toy. drinking and drug abuse. Women are Nairobi (Tanja is a veterinarian). I'm sorry-
becoming very strong in the government and did someone say there's a telTOlist alert?
• Farm implements are also hand made are pushing for change. And we also learned
(women do the farming).

HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Karen Fahey Wilson and Dick Gulizia

ALUM 1926-TOOTER Annual was donated by a Navy in WWII and worked at Union Pacific
gentleman who wishes to remain Railroad for 41years. Congratulations on
Please send us name, address and telephone anonymous. Please note that the Alumni your award and your birthday Joe and may
number changes, as well as names and Association is always glad to receive items you celebrate many more.
addresses ofFiends, family and classmates, for our Archives.
who are not currently receiving the Alumni 1935-Dow Christie of Durango, CO wrote
TOOTER. Be sure to include class year and 1933-Helen Fiala Hayduska of Omaha to tell everyone that he has moved from
maiden name where applicable. We need this wrote that though she is "only 88 years old" Reseda, CA to live with his son in Colorado.
information to keep our database updated. she would certainly like to win one of the He invites any classmates who might visit
Also, please send ALL information, changes, prizes in the Lottery. She said she really the area to look him up. Dow says that
clothing orders, membership monies, enjoyed her four years at SHS and got a Durango is one of the best vacation spots ill
scholarship donations, archival really good education. Sony Helen you America and many rich and famous people
contributions, inquiries and any other weren't a winner this time, but maybe next from all over the world spend time and lots
correspondence to: year! We would also like to thank Helen for of money there. He says they enjoy blue
the information about a fellow class membel; skies, large fluffy cumulus clouds, and plenty
Dr. Richard Gulizia Joe Hoffman, whom she says she actually of smog-free ail' so he hopes to live to be
SHS Alumni Association Office just met three years ago. 100. Dow also invites everyone to visit his
6613 Sunshine Drive son's web site www.entryways.com. to see
Omaha, NE 68107 1933-Joseph Hoffman of Omaha was some of his beautiful hand made doors.
or call 402-738-9493 honored with a Good Neighbor Award in
or e-mail [email protected] May 2003 . At 89 years young, he was 1935-John J. Krajicek of Omaha and his
recognized for repailing neighbors' cars, wife Pat celebrated 60 years of marriage on
painting theil' houses, pulling weeds, buying 8-19-03. They were married in Texas in
groceries for shut-ins and visiting fiiends in 1943. He joined the Marines in 1947 and
the hospital and nursing homes. Joseph, who
turned 90 in September 2003, was in the (continued on page 5)

ALUM South High School ALUMNI TOOTER PAGE 5

(continuedji-om page 4) 1940-Bill McIvor of Seattle, WA wrote 1945-Don Claussen of Omaha wrote, "I can
"You people are the best there are! I am never thank you enough for the honor you
is a 30-year veteran. Congratulations to very proud of the service you have rendered gave me at the South High Packer Sports
both ofyou and thanks John for 30 years of our school, and I know I join hundreds of Greats banquet. My night was complete
service to our countly. others! Please keep up the good efforts." with all my family there. As a coach I feel
Thank you to Bill and many others ,,,ho sent well 'rewarded' helping so many boys
1937-Mildred Tess Pouster of Rogers, AR similar land words ofencouragement with achieve success in life. Steve-1950 &
wrote that although she is unable to sell her their memberships and/or 10ttelY tickets. Marylou Stanesic-1951 Cavlovic you are
lottery tickets due to a couple of major great at handling the banquet. Special
sh'okes, she wishes the Alumni Association 1941-Robert Peterson of Sun City, AZ sent thanks to all for the wonderful and fun
great success with the lottery and thanks us a business card that states: "Engineer banquet." Congratulations Don, and you
for keeping the alumni going. Thanks for the Retired 'When tempted to work, I lie down are velY welcome.
land words Mildred and we hope you are til it wears off.' No address. No Phone. No
feeling bettel: Business. No Prospects. No Worries. No CUSTOM FRAMING
Money." Thanks Bob.
1937-Frank Tourek of Omaha is owner of (a division ofTbe HomeMakers LLC)
Tourek Engraving Company, which was 1943-Edward L. Clegg who was killed in
featured in the Midlands Business Journal action on 9-12-50 in Korea was honored ART, ACCESSORIES, and FRAMING
on 5-16-03. Frank is the second generation recently at the dedication of the Central
to own the now 85-year-old company. His High Korean Conflict Casualty Plaque. 9324 "R" Court
daughter and grandson, Matt Morinelli - Edward had attended Cenh'al for a while Omaha, NE 68127
1989 now work at the company. Frank says before graduating from SHS. Sergeant
Matt is a computer whiz and can do things Clegg was a member of the 5th Cavalry 402-597-8824
on the computer in a few minutes that used Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division. He was
to take two to three days to do by hand. The awarded the Purple Heart with oak cluster 1946-Floyd Kastelic of Paluump, NY
company has many return customers and (World War II and Korea), the Combat wrote that he wasn't very active in high
several generations of the same families Infantryman's Badge, the Korean Service school because he only attended classes
order invitations to wedding and golden Medal, the United Nations Service Medal, in the morning and had to work in the
anniversaries from them. Congratulations the Korean War Service Medal and the afternoons. He said his favorite teacher was
to all ofthe Toureks for the wondelful write Bronze Star. Doc Huggenberger, the printing teacher. He
up and we wish continued success to such a said he frequently skipped school but came
great family-owned business. 1945-Renaldo 'Ray' Madura of to the print room to help "Doc" teach other
Westminster, CA wrote that he worked at kids about printing. He later worked for the
orc (402) 33()'2600 Linda Nigro the Omar Flour Mills with Dr. Darrell Sun Newspapers in Omaha and became
Mudra-1946 for about a year on the swing foreman of printing after 14 years. He
Mbl, (402)708-3145 Licensed Associate shift after school as feed packers. After moved to Nevada where he was general
Oir: (402) 697-4334 graduation, Ray joined the Coast Guard at foreman of the composing room on a paper
16949 lakeside Hills PIz. age 17 and retired as a Master Chief in for 24 years before retirement.
Fax: (402) 697-4404 Omaha, NE 68130 1972. Ray served the Coast Guard in many
units advancing his rank along the way. He 1949-Dick Richt of Omaha is looking for a
www.c.bshome.com served in both VietNam and Korea and 1949 class yearbook. If anyone has one
received numerous medals and awards. available, please call him at 734-3403.
1938 Class Reunion Committee has Thank you Ray for your extensive service to
decided not to have any more class our countly. 1953-John Stella of Omaha wrote "I would
reunions. They have chosen to donate the like to thank Alumni Rich Gulizia, Steve
money left in their reunion account to the 1945-Al Shoehigh ofAiea, Hawaii wrote Cavlovic, John Krayneski, and the rest of
South High School Alumni Association. sending us an interesting lesson about the the members of the Packer Sports Greats
Thank you to class contact Violet Pospishal Hawaiian language. The lesson started Committee for naming me as a Packer
Callaway and her committee for malang this because of our mail to him. We incorrectly Great. Just to be mentioned with the great
generous donation. to the Alumni spelled the city as ALEA instead of AIEA. athletes and coaches of South High School
Association. Al explained that the Hawaiian language is quite an honor. I would also like to thank
only has 12 letters a, e, i, 0, u, and h, k, 1, m, the Alumni Association for all the hard work
The name of the late Steve Tomasek of n, p, and w vs. the 26 in the English they do in keeping the h'adition alive."
Omaha was recently added to the South alphabet. He said that the Hawaiians get a Congratulations on an honor well deserved
Omaha Honor Roll plaque in the old South lot of mileage out of the vowels and and thank you.
Omaha City Hall building at 24th & 0 frequently put 4 or more vowels in a row, as
Sh·eet. Mr. Tomasek was known for his in the name of his city. He said they have 1954-Caryl Weber Kotulak spends part of
community service. He was an Omaha City many words that are offensive in English her life in Omaha and part in Las Cruces,
Councilman for many years and was also a that are common over there, such as Pupu NM. Caryl is a former OPS teacher and
Chile Chef. There is still evidence of his which is the general name for marine and American Airlines International Flight
work in the South Omaha area. land shells, also for food served on a attendant. She is also the author of Being
dish .. .like at a party... finger food. Thanks Better than Better, which is the story of the
for the lesson AI. We have corrected the odyssey of a drop of sun, Ray, and his
name ofyour city, and thoroughly enjoyed search for "better." Besides writing and
the information. teaching, she painted many murals
throughout Omaha and performed in local
theatre and opera productions. She was

(continued on page 6)

PAGE 6 South High School ALUMNI TOOTER

ALUM the 1949 winning Metz team, and a SHS 1964-Dana Hovey of LaVista was recently
Football warm-up jacket to the Alumni presented with the Sertoma Club of
(continued from page 5) Association. Jim also donated several Nebraska Service to Mankind Award for
footballs, basketballs and a volley ball net 2003. Congratulations!
named Queen Mum of the Cool Chilies Red for SHS. Thanks also Jim, for your help with
Hat Society chapter in Las Cruces for being the Packer Sports Greats Committee. 1* John Wise And Associates
instrumental in its foundation. hope you are enjoying your new home in
Arkansas, but we miss you. Realtors
1955-Alta Walker Heath of Las Cruces,
NM was recently given the Alice Peden 1961-Carl Fialla of Colorado Springs, CO 712-243-4977
Corazon Award as the Volunteer of the Year wrote to tell his 1961 classmates that he has
at Las Cruces Downtown. Alta is the moved back to Colorado. He is planning to 707 W. 7th st. (W. Hwy. 6) - Atlantic
volunteer Administrative Director for Las build a new home in Woodland Park, which
Cruces Downtown. She serves as is 25 minutes west of Colorado Springs in Farm - Home - Commercial
secretary, receptionist, archivist, computer the mountains. He went to Africa in June of Sales & Appraisals
guru and bookkeeper. She also helped create 2001 on a successful safari hunt, then went
a newsletter and web page and was to Canada for a caribou. On his way back to JOHN A. WISE, GRI-712-243-4977
instrumental in a large membership drive. the States he got caught in the 9/11 Trade rn
She has donated much of the office Center tragedy and had to stay in Toronto BROKER ~JI{LS
equipment that she uses at least 5 hours a for eight days. When he got off the plane in
day 7 days a week. The Board of Directors Denver he felt so blessed to be alive and FAX: 712-243-3383
of the organization believes that she is truly back home, he decided to move back to
the glue that holds the group together. Colorado. 1967-Linda Demitruk Potere, MBA, CAP,
Congratulations, Alta, on this prestigious NCAC IT of Coral Springs, FL is
award. (Thanks to Caryl Koutlak for 1961-Denny Koubsky of Omaha recently PresidentlExecutive Director of Seacrest
sending the iriformation.) donated the 1972 yearbook of his brother-in- Resource Center, INC. "HealthCare
law, Larry Dziedzic who died 4-30-97. Accreditation for the 21 st Century." Her
1955-Wendall 'Punky' Stewart of Thanks Denny andfamily for thinldng ofthe company "provides technical expertise,
Colorado Springs, CO wrote that he wanted Alumni Association. guidance, and motivation for health care
to let the Alumni Association know how agencies seeking national accreditation and
much he enjoys the TOOTER and I I~~~~~SINCE 1855 regulatory compliance from JCAHO, CARF,
appreciates all the work and things done for CHAP, AAAHC, Medicare and other federal
all graduates. He said he has held many PAUL R. SOPINSKI Cell: 1402)203-2122 and local state regulatory agencies." Linda's
jobs since graduation, some of which didn't Res: 1402) 496-4152 company can provide services for clients
make much money but were a lot of fun. He REALTOR" anywhere in the United States. Linda, good
owned a liquor store, he was a coach, a luck with what sounds like a very helpfol
sports editor, a racing photographer, and had 12915 West Dodge Rd. company.
a racing paper. For 12 years he was a Pikes Omaha. NE 68154
Peak Hill Climb Photographer and also did Ofc: (402) 330-5008 1969-Gene is looking for a SHS yearbook
a Photography Study for 25 years. He is Fox: 1402) 33()..5545 for 1969. Call him at 234-2570 if you have
now retired but still does some video E~maD: [email protected] one for him.
editing. They have a motor home and plan
to see the USA over the next few years and 1961-Joe Nedich of Gilbert, AZ wrote light 1978-Michael Butera of Papillion was
may stop in Omaha sometime soon. He also after he received his first ever issue of the recently promoted to Captain on the Omaha
said that he had really great memories of TOOTER. He sent a financial donation and Police Force. Mike is a 20-year police
SHS, the football team and South Omaha. stated that he very much enjoyed reading the veteran who will be in charge of the
TOOTER and looks forward to more issues. criminal investigations bureau.
1957-Carole Benak Reisdorff Miller of He wanted to say hello to classmates from Congratulations Mike on a great career and
Bellevue, NE is a representative of the class of 1961 and wishes everyone well. thanks for your service to protect and serve
Prudential Insurance Company ofAmerica He also thanked everyone in the Alumni the Omaha community.
in Bellevue. Association for all of the work done to
keep going. Elaine Ellefson who is not a SHS graduate,
1960-Jim Collin of Hot Springs, AK recently found a 1923 TOOTER in some old
donated a METZ baseball jacket, a photo of 1964-Dennis Loftus of Omaha couldn't books she had in storage. She had no
attend the South High Alumni Packer Sports family members at South at that time so
ARTicles Greats awards dinner at Anthony's because does not know how she came to have it but
he was hospitalized and very ill. The next she thought it should be returned to its
412 N. 96th Street, P.O. Box 241377 night, Coach Beau Haizlip presented a rightful home, at the South High Alumni
OMAHA, NE 68124-5377 certificate to Dennis for being on the Association. Thank you so much Elaine for
winning 1963 SHS wrestling team. Dennis thinldng of us. We greatly appreciate all
Phone 402.393.6198 or 800.393.6198 and his two brothers Dale and Donald, now archival items donated to the organization.
deceased, were on the same team and all
ART received certificates. Thanks to Coach BUS: 733-{)981 CELL: 598-3560 FAX: 733-3990 .
ANTIQUES Haizlip for doing the honors and to all of
ACCESSORIES the Loftus brothers for their help in winning THOMPSON ROOFING
the championship that yea/: We sincerely
NORMA J. HILT hope that Dennis is feeling much better RESIDENT)AL & COMMERCIAL
at this time.
GaileI)' Owner BILL THOMPSON 4436 SOUTH 12TH
OMAHA, NE 68107

SOllth High School ALUMNI TOOTER PAGE 7

ALUMNI CONGRATULATIONS
CORRESPONDENCE
TO THE 2003 LOTTERY WINNERS
Please send all Alumni Association
correspondence to the Alumni Office as $2,000 Grand Prize - Joseph Pecha-1938 of Omaha Joseph Pecha
directed below. $1,000 - John Phipps-1962 of Excelsior, MN Gerald Queen

The Alumni Association office at 6613 $500 - Ann Fowler McKenna-1947 of Elkhorn, NE
Sunshine Drive - 68107 is generally open $500 - Gerald Queen-1971 of Ralston, NE
Monday through Friday from 10:30 A.M. to
3:00 P.M., but it is always best to call first to $500 - Juanita Romero Meyers-1959 of Omaha, NE
assure that someone is available. The phone $500 - Jim ColIin-1960 of Hot Springs Village, AK
number is 4021738-9493, with an answering
machine. When leaving a message please Special thanks to each of you who participated in the 2003
state clearly your first name, maiden name, Lottery. Whether you sent a dollar or $100, each ticket and
last name (spelling your last name), class dollar counts to help SHS students and our school. We
year and your phone number. We also have appreciate the 12% of our alumni who purchased $39,854 worth
a 24-hour fax machine at 4021738-5145. of tickets. Next year we hope more of you will be able to help
with this important fundraiser.
Any correspondence dealing with the
TOOTER should be addressed to the Editor Your Alumni Board and volunteers also enjoy the encouraging
or TOOTER, at the Alumni office at the notes of appreciation and thanks you sent with your ticket stubs
address above so that it can be filed and checks. You brighten our day!
correctly until time for the next issue. This
includes: AlumNotes, Deaths, TOOTER The next Lottery will start September 13, 2004, and the winning
Advertising, or any other information tickets will be drawn on December 11. Please buy some tickets
relative specifically to the TOOTER. and help your alma mater. Look for more information in the
Fall 2004 TOOTER.
We ask that any and all other Alumni
correspondence also be directed to the ANNUAL RENEWAL NOTICE
Alumni office at 6613 Sunshine Drive-
Omaha, NE 68107. This includes: letters to ALL MEMBERSHIPS ARE VALUABLE drawing and a $500 scholarship will be
the President; letters to the Executive AND EVERY DOLLAR COUNTS. awarded in their name to a graduating
Director; letters to the Board of Directors; South High senior. The scholarship is given
letters to the secretary; reunion information; Dear Fellow Alumnus: on Honor's Night at South High School early
donations of any kind: memberships, in May. We have awarded three scholarships
postage, gifts, memorials, archival Enclosed in this TOOTER is the envelope so far.
donations, foundation monies, etc.; changes for your annual membership. Your
of name and or address; clothing and membership fee is $20 per year per alumnus. We would like to thank all alumni who do
cookbook orders with appropriate payment; For record keeping purposes we run this $20 pay their annual memberships. We greatly
lottery tickets; bowling shootout per person minimum drive now to cover the appreciate the dedicaton of all of those
registrations and fees; spaghetti dinner ticket $50,000 annual budget expenses from June who support the Association with regular
requests with money; golf fees and to May. From now on the membership drive donations and participation in our activities.
registrations; and any other Alumni news or will be included in the spring TOOTER. The Thank you again to all who have given
requests. budget expenses include three mailings per to date.
year, office space rent, salary, scholarships
Since we are a volunteer organization, and grants. We sincerely hope that you are all enjoying
please allow adequate time for us to respond each and every TOOTER. We would love
to your orders, inquiries and other requests. We have approximately 21,000 good names to hear from more of you, as to what you
Thank you in advance for your patience. and addresses on our computer data base, are doing, etc., for the AlumNotes section.
with only 4,500 alumni providing any Please write or fax us soon.
To check out the website go to: financial support; therefore, we need support
www.omahasouthhighalumni.com. Our from more of you. We cannot continue Thank you in advance for your support.
webmaster is John Novak-class of 1992. providing TOOTERS, scholarships to
students, teacher grants and having functions Sincerely,
If you are interested in receiving E-Mails for the enjoyment of fellow alumni members
updating our activities, please send a note to with only a 10% return on our membership Richard Gulizia, Executive Director
Ron Cerone at [email protected]. drive. South High School Alumni Association
THIS ADDRESS IS NOT TO BE USED 6613 Sunshine Drive - Omaha, NE 68107
FOR ALUMNI OFFICE At our annual spaghetti dinner in March, the Phone 402-738-9493 Fax 402-738-5145
CORRESPONDENCE. This is only names of all paid members are entered into a
for updating information about any
upcoming events!

PAGE 8 SOlllb Higb Scbool ALUMNI TOOTER IN MEMORIAM

PROJECT MEMORIALS 1923-Arthur Berry of Omaha died
OMAHA 12-25-03 after a long illness. He was
ATSHS WERE GIVEN IN HONOR owner and president of United Seeds, Inc.
AND MEMORY OF
The Omaha in this project stands for Oral 1930-Beatrice (Vlasta) Navratil Calta of
Memories And Historical Anthologies and 1933-Regina Cikota Wiater of Omaha Omaha died 8-2-03.
was funded by a Nebraska State Lottery who died 4-7-03 from son and daughter-
grant. The major purpose of the grant is to in-law Michael-1958 and Carol Wiater. 1930-Honorable Glenn Cunningham
increase student communication, writing, of Omaha died 12-03. At age 35 in 1948,
and technological skills. The students use 1934-Elmer Mengler of Omaha who died Mr, Cunningham was the youngest person
digital cameras to interview Omahans to 7-24-03 from Vic-1961 and Beverly elected as Mayor of Omaha. He later served
record their memories for future Forman Riha-1964 of Bellevue. 14 years as Nebraska's 2nd District
generations. The interviews are transcribed Representative in the U.S. House, longer
and the students create historical fiction, 1945-Ed Julis of Omaha who died 7-03 than anyone who held that position. Mr.
children's books for third graders, and news from RIHA Farms, Inc. of Bellevue, NE. Cunningham is a SHS Alumni Hall of Fame
stories for an on-line newspaper called the Member. He was very supportive of the
Old Omaha Exchange from this material. 1957-Dorothy (Dotti) Simons Buck of SHSAA.
They also create short video documentaries Anaheim, CA who died 6-29-03 from
from the interviews, using Apple software, daughter Jolynne Buck Gordon. 1930-Frank Strnad of Omaha died
which can be viewed by the community. 10-18-03. He graduated from SHS at age
1960-Paul Limas who died 10-4-02 from 16. He loved music, nature and his family.
The Project is housed in a Local History Frank Spevak-1959 of Independence, M0. His wife and all of his children also
Center at SHS which is filled with many graduated from SHS.
artifacts. On display is an original cattle 1964-Maureen Nelsen Hutchison of
pen from the Omaha Stockyards filled with Fremont, NE from Duncan-1970 and 1930-Carl Welchner of Santa Barbara, CA
relics of its long history, copies of the old Rozanne Murphy. died 9-20-03 just a month short of his 92nd
Omaha Bee Newspaper, parts of old birthday.
buildings, and photographs. The students 1965-John A. Simmons from RIHA
use articles, videos, books, artifacts and Farms, Inc. of Bellevue, NE. 1931-Chester Cikota of Omaha died of
reference material from near and as far congestive heart failure .
away as California and Hawaii. Please remember to honor friends and
loved ones, either living or deceased, by 1931-Helen Irwin Deaver of Denver, CO
If you would like to be interviewed by the giving financial donations to the Alumni died 12-3-02.
students or can suggest someone for us to Association, purchasing a brick in their
contact, please let us know. Donations of honor, or by giving a scholarship in 1931-Dorothy Robinson Sharples of
money and/or artifacts would be greatly their name. Bellevue died 9-16-03 following a brief
appreciated. Send artifacts or checks illness. She had many fond memories of
payable to History INC. %Project Omaha - [ God Called You Home singing solos at SHS. She later composed
4519 South 24 Street - Omaha, NE 68107 poetry and wrote articles for various
or call Gary Kastrick at 557-3640 or e-mail When the days are sad and lonely, publications.
him at [email protected]. and everything goes wrong,
We seem to hear you whisper, 1931-Helen Thomas of Miami, FL.
7301 MAIN STREET "Cheer up and carry on,"
RALSTON, NEBRASKA 68127 Every time we see your picture, 1932- Henry Greenberg of Omaha died
you smile and seem to say, 1-1-04 of a heart attack. He was co-owner
John Krayneski, Jr. ('02) 592-2850 "Don't cry, I'm only sleeping, of Phillips Dept. Store with his brother Sam.
President we'll meet again some day," Phillips Department Store, with the support
You were gone before we knew it, of the Greenberg brothers, was very
5802 S. 72nd SL and only God knows why, instrumental in the growth of South Omaha.
RALSTON, NEBRASKA 681 27 A million times we've needed you, HeillY was a very strong community leader
a million times we've cried, as well as helping with class reunions for
FRED KRAYNESKI If love alone could save you, the SHS class of 1932. Henry was a SHS
General Manager you would never have died, Alumni Hall of Fame Member.
In life we loved you dearly,
in death we love you still. 1932-Matthew Kisicki of Ralston, NE died
In our hearts you hold a place 9-24-02 .
no one can ever fill.
It broke our hearts to lose you, 1932-Marjorie Kundy O'Keefe of Omaha
but you didn't go alone. died 8-03.
For a part of us went with you,
the day God called you home, 1932-Viola Niemann Taylor of Loveland,
CO - died 7-5-03 .
(402) 331 -0377
(continued on page 9)

South High School ALUMNI TOOTER PAGE 9

IN MEMORIAM 1938-Paul Mickells of Omaha died on 1944-Rose Marie Cherney Studnicka of
Thanksgiving Day 11-27-03. Omaha .
(continued from page 8)
1938- Bernie Popelka. 1945-Edward Julis of Omaha.
1933-Evelyn Baird Fischer of Stilwell, KS
died 12-03. She was known for making 1938-Mary Ellen Bratton Stark of Austin, 1946-Charles "Chuck" Baltzer of
beautiful quilts and afghans. TX. Glendale, AZ died 6-27-03 of leukemia. He
built custom homes in Phoenix and Prescott,
1933-Margaret Elsie Shaw Melcher of Las 1939-Benny Alba of Las Cruces, NM. AZ for 34 years. He was very active in his
Vegas, NV church for many years.
1939-Bernard Carlton of Omaha.
1933-Bertha Skradis Sorensen of Omaha 1946-Gerald Baugh of Portland, OR died
died 5-30-02. She worked on many of her 1939-Elizabeth Koopman Keene of 7-1-03 .
class reunions. Seattle, WA died 7-8-03.
1946-Ruby Dawson Gibson of Grand
1933-Regina Cikota Wiater of Omaha 1939-Rudy Matulka of Omaha died Ridge, FL died 1-18-03. She was retired as
died 4-7-03 of congestive heart failure 11-28-03 of pancreatic cancer. He received Medical Records Administrator of Florida
and complications of diabetes. an Omaha SHS Alumni Association Packer State Hospital. She was a disabled veteran
Great award. Rudy played professional of the Korean War.
1934-Elmer Mengler of Omaha died football. He worked for the Omaha Fire
7-24-03 . Department for 35 years and was a strong 1946-Mary Lou Eller Nerad of Varna, IL
supporter of the SHSAA. died 7-4-02.
1934-Julia Teringer of Omaha.
1939-Elaine Robirds Cormick of Omaha 1946-Don Sefren of Omaha.
1934-Willard Wolfe of Omaha died died 4-29-02.
10-2-03. 1947-George Georgeff of Omaha.
1939-Alice Forman Novak of David City,
1935-Jean Prince Dennis of Omaha died NE died 1-23-03. 1947-Mary Marcuccio Petak of Omaha
4-03. died 10-22-03.
1939-Milton Stahmer of Prescott, AZ.
1935-Robert Hurless of Port Angeles, WA. 1947-Herbert Wehner of Omaha. He
1940-Burton Hall of Calistoga, CA died retired as General Manager of Shedds Food
1935-Lawrence Key of Berkley, CA. 9-20-02. He had a medical practice in Products.
Calistoga for 25 years before retirement.
1935-Dorothy Robertson Trunecek of 1949-Lawrence Kriegler, Sr. of Omaha
Omaha. 1940-Viola (Dolly) McAuliffe Propst of died 8-10-03 .
North Platte, NE.
1937-Helen Gogela Austin of Belle Vista, 1950-John T. O'Hara of Omaha.
AR died 4-4-03. She had a passion for 1941-Blase Cupich of Omaha died 7-11 -03
world travel, education and involvement in of complications of Parkinson's disease. He 1951-Jim Seybold of West Covina, CA died
many community organizations and was a retired mail carrier who became a 3-9-03 of pulmonary fibrosis. He was a
ministries. Sarpy County commissioner for 12 years. Systems Analyst for OccidentaVTransamerica
He was also on the Governing Board of the in Los Angeles and was very active with
1937-Les Criswell of Las Vegas, NY died Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging. Love, Inc., a humanitarian organization.
6-26-03 . Les was a very strong supporter of
the SHSAA. His many handmade clocks, 1941-Arthur Krapp of Oakland, CA. 1953-Anthony J. 'Tony' Fucinaro of
video tapes, audio recordings, information Omaha died late 8-03. Owner of Fucinaro
about Union Pacific Railroad (from which 1941-Lorraine Clines Miklas of Omaha Excavating Co. Inc. and strong supporter
he retired) and especially his many jokes died of complications of Alzheimer's of Catholic Charities in Omaha and
and cartoons will be greatly missed by the disease. Lorraine was known for her sweet surrounding areas. Tony never hesitated to
Alumni Association staff. singing voice. She sang with the orchestras donate trucks, dirt and other supplies to the
of Bobby Vann and Chuck Hall and was a SHSAA during the construction ofthe HP
1937-Ralph Orduna of Chicago, IL died regular on WOW Radio 's "Supreme Smith Sports Training Facility for the youth
5-29-03 . Ralph trained with an elite group Serenade" as well as singing in area clubs of SHS and the South Omaha area. His
of young black airmen at the Tuskegee and ballrooms. kindness will be greatly missed.
Institute in Alabama. He flew 18 missions
in a P-51 earning an Air Medal with two 1942-Clarence Rose of Portland, OR died 1953-Melvin Floyd Grothe of Omaha
oak clusters. 4-03. 7-18-03.

1937-John Zemunski of Fairfield, OH 1943-Frances Prusha Kocsis of Omaha 1953-Dr. Shirley Waskel of Omaha died
died 7-l3-03. died 12-02. 7-03.

1938-Frances Dalton of Omaha died 1944-Frank Matukewicz of Omaha died 1954-Marlaine Wild Smith of San Marcos,
3-10-03 . 5-03 . He was a World War II veteran. CA died 6-03 .

(continued on page 10)

PAGE 10 SOllth High School ALUMNI TOOTER

IN MEMORIAM 1995-Jerry Lee Rody of Bellevue died DR SHIRLEY WASKEL RECEIVES
when the Deffenbaugh garbage truck he WEBER AWARD OF EXCELLENCE
(continued from page 9) drove rolled back, pinning him between the
uuck and a dumpster. Dr. Shirley Waskel-1953, a professor of
1955-Cliffton Mcintosh of Omaha died gerontology in the UNO College of Public
12-10-03. William Richard Wohlfarth of Affairs and Community Service, was
Plattsmouth, NE died 7-03 following a presented with the Weber Award of
1955-Donna Simms Melton of El Dorado long battle with Alzheimer's Disease. Excellence in conjunction with the
Springs, MO died 12-12-01. Mr. Wohlfarth shared his mathematical university's 2003 Service Awards Luncheon.
knowledge with thousands of students The award, which includes a cash gift of
1957-Dorothy 'Dotti' Simons Buck of through almost four decades of teaching. $2,000, is named in honor of former UNO
Anaheim, CA died 6-29-03. He taught at SHS for 34 years, and served Chancellor Del Weber and his wife, Lou Ann.
many years as the head of the math It recognizes an individual from UNO who
1958-William 'Bill' Lassek of Lamar, MO department. He also taught night classes at provides outstanding professional service at
died 7-24-03 . Meu'opolitan Community College and the local, regional or national level.
Bellevue University. Mr. Wohlfarth loved
1958-James Vodicka of Bellevue, NE died being in the classroom with students. Dr. Waskel also served as executive director
7-30-03. of the Program for Women and Successful
Poppy Ann (Hristakos) Polites Aging (PWSA), which she founded in 1995.
1959-Kathleen Mathews O 'Leary of A CELEBRATION of LIFE The program is a multi-institutional,
Indianapolis, IN died mid 11-03. community-based initiative designed to
"Best friends are the create a climate that encourages an
1960-Donna Killham Adams of Omaha. ones who never leave appreciation of older women, their wisdom,
your heart." their cultural diversity and the multiple
1963-Nancy Elliott Turco of Omaha died aspects of their aging process. It is
6-28-03 of cancer. She was a dietitian's aide Poppy died on July 25, at home in affiliated with the UNO Department of
at St. Catherine and Bergan Mercy Hospitals Scottsdale, AZ Gerontology in the College of Public Affairs
and spent 11 years as a dog groomer. and Community Service.
Married to her one and only love Joe Turco, Poppy was first and foremost a wonderful
they renewed their vows on their 39th mother and a grandmother extraordinaire. Dean B.J. Reed of the UNO College of
anniversary, just hours before she died. She is survived with deep love and affection Public Affairs and Community Service said
by her son Jim Hristakos-1966, her that "Shirley was instrumental in
1964-Maureen Nelsen Hutchison of daughter Christina Hristakos-1969, her establishing the nationally recognized
Omaha. two grandsons - Nick and Casey (Jim's PWSA. By sheer will and commitment, she
sons) and her niece and three nephews - has created a self-perpetuating program to
1965-Marilyn Alice Renken East of Anita, Nick, Paul and John Elson and their bring resources, support services and
Springdale, AR died 4-11-02 of cancer. respective families. Poppy was a bold, programs to women who, without such
creative force who touched and inspired her services, would remain isolated and alone in
1965-John Simmons of Omaha. family, fi'iends and all she met, bringing joy their later years of life."
and light to their lives and encouraging
1965-Marsha Garofolo Valasek of everyone to follow their dreams. Examples of the program's power are
Bennington died 8-2-03 after a four-year sprinkled across campus and throughout the
battle with breast cancer. Her professional life included working for Omaha area.
the U.S . Treasury, helping start and run a
1966-Laurel Bednar of Omaha died restaurant in Chicago and working her way One involves Dr. Waskel's role as a mentor
11-8-03. up the Western Electric (now Lucent) and academic role model for gerontology
corporate ladder to become their first students at UNO. "My understanding of
1968-Anton 'Tony' Zelinger of Anchorage, female Logistical Engineer, all the while what it means to be an academic, a woman
AK. died 10-8-03. An avid outdoorsman who attending night classes to earn credits in the world of higher education, is directly
loved to hunt and fish, he moved to toward a college degree. And lastly, with related to Dr. Waskel," a nominator wrote.
Anchorage after a tour in the Navy. He her exuberant personality, Poppy was known "Beyond her contributions to the body of
worked in the oil fields, government to many as the unofficial Mayor of South knowledge through numerous publications
construction and the fisheries ofAlaska. Omaha and a staunch supporter of South and the classroom setting, Dr. Waskel has
High School. She made the checkout at exemplified the merging of theory and
1981-Janet Reynolds of Omaha died 9-5- Hinky Dinky where she worked part time, practice. Her program, PWSA, provides the
03 of cancer. She loved to crochet and do her South 0 office. element of community outreach that has
needlework and also traveled across the been informed by theory. The organization
United States including Hawaii. Death retraction-1963 Emil Mixan of is tangible and the pinnacle of the many
Papillion is NOT deceased, it was his father years of service that Dr. Waskel has provided
1984-Cheri Vopalka Hartwig of Omaha. who died. We are so sorry for this errOl: in higher education. She not only professes
the need for her students to integrate, but she
1984-John Newquist of Omaha. lives it as well - a prime academic example."

1992-Melanie Mitchell of Omaha. It is with great sadness that we report that
Dr: Waskel died before she could actually
enjoy her award.

SOllth High School ALUMNI TOOTER PAGE 11

CLASS REUNIONS

Author Unknown (submitted by Gaylord 1952 and Violet Duree 1953)

Every ten years, as summertime nears, No one had heard about the class nerd It was held out-of-doors, at the lake shores;
An announcement arrives in the mail. Who'd guided a spacecraft to the moon; We ate hamburgers, coleslaw, and beans.
A reunion is planned; it'll really be grand, Or poor little Jane, who's always been plain; Then most of us lay around in the shade,
Make plans to attend without fail. She married a shipping tycoon. In our comfortable T-shirts and jeans.

I'll never forget the first time we met; The boy we'd decreed "most apt to succeed" By the fortieth year, it was abundantly clear,
We tried so hard to impress. Was serving ten years in the pen , We were definitely over the hill.
We drove fancy cars, smoked big cigars, While the one voted "least" now was a priest; Those who weren't dead had to crawl out of bed,
And wore our most elegant dress. Just shows you can be wrong now and then. And be home in time for their pill.

It was quite an affair; the whole class was there. They awarded a prize to one of the guys And now I can't wait; they've set the date;
It was held at a fancy hotel. Who seemed to have aged the least. Our fiftieth is coming, I'm told.
We wined and we dined, and we acted refined, Another was given to the grad who had driven It should be a ball, they've rented a hall
And everyone thought it was swell. The fartherest to attend the feast. At the Shady Rest Home for the old.

The men all conversed about who had been first They took a class picture, a curious mixture Repairs have been made on my hearing aid;
To achieve great fortune and fame. Of beehives, crew cuts and wide ties. My pacemaker's been turned up on high.
Meanwhile, their spouses described their fine houses Tall, short, or skinny, the style was the mini; My wheelchair is oiled, and my teeth have been boiled;
And how beautiful their children became. You never saw so many thighs. And I've bought a new wig and glass eye.

The homecoming queen, who once had been lean, At our next get-together, no one cared whether I'm feeling quite hearty, and I'm ready to party
Now weighed in at one-ninety-six. They impressed their classmates or not. I'm gonna dance 'til dawn's early light.
The jocks who were there had all lost their hair, The mood was informal, a whole lot more normal; It'll be lots of fun; but I hope that there's one
And the cheerleaders could no longer do kicks. By this time we'd all gone to pot. Other person who can make it that night.

HOMECOMING 2004 REUNIONS
QUEEN
1944-60-year reunion on Saturday evening Patty Popelka Wawrzynkiewicz at 339-4940
KELLIVOMACKA 8-14. More information to be mailed by 5-1. or e-mail [email protected].
Contact Frances Walsh Curran at 339-3240.
1984-20-year reunion is planned, but no
1949-55-year reunion Saturday evening 6-19. details were available at time of print.
Contact either John Zvezdich at 731-5371 Contact Kelly Urkevich Sanko at 932-9325
or Dolores Torek Kripal at 731-7865. or e-mail [email protected].

1954-50-year reunion 8-20 through 22. 1989-15-year reunion is being planned, but
Contact Jim Robertson at 391-8592. no details available at time of print. Contact
Jason Calek at 343-9384 or Steve Andersen
1959-No reunion is being planned this year. at 731-6359.

Pictured (left) Ginny Bohaty Vomacka-1961 1964-40-year reunion on Saturday 5-1. 1994-IO-year reunion will be held Friday,
Kelli's mother and (right) Kelli Vomacka- Contact Betty Lou Parish Stern at 7-23 and Saturday, 7-24. Friday night is a
2001 331-3532. Help needed locating casual night out at Fox and Hound English
missing classmates. Pub and Grill at 510 N 120th Street in
Kelli Vomacka is continuing a tradition of Omaha. Saturday - a day of swimming
being honored as Homecoming Queen. She 1969-35-year reunion is planned but no (families welcome) and an evening of dinner,
was the 2000 SHS Queen, the 2001 State of details available at time of print. Contact drinks, music and dancing at the Fontenelle
Nebraska Queen and now is the 2003 UNO Bette Velasquez Foral at 734-0858. Hills Country Club at 1102 Country Club Ct.
Queen. Kelli is a junior in the College of in Bellevue. Cost will be approximately $25
Education at UNO and the President of 1974-30-year reunion on Saturday 7-3l. per person and $50 per couple (subject to
Alpha Xi Delta Sorority. She also won the Contact either Dottie Olbertz Krimmel change once all details are finalized).
Public Relations Award at America's at 731-2010 or Denise Ariza Muck at Specific details to follow by mail. Hope to
Homecoming Queen Contest in 2001. 331-0162. see you there! Contacts:
Congratulations! Christy (Janda) Lopez - 558-0047 or
1979-25-year reunion is planned, but no [email protected]; or call Genevive
specifics available at time of print. Contact Grant - 572-0440.

PAGE 12 South High School ALUMNI TOOTER

CLASS OF 1948 MEMORIAL BRICKS
REUNION REPORT
A LASTING TRIBUTE FOR SOUTH OMAHA
By Bonnie Abboud
The South High School Alumni Association invites you to participate in a permanent
The SHS Class of 1948 held their 55th tribute/memorial being placed at the H.P. Smith Sports Complex located at 20th and "0"
reunion October 3 and 4, 2003 at the Streets.
Ameristar Casino Hotel with over 90
classmates, spouses and friends attending. The memorial site is paved with high quality bricks, designed for lasting endurance and
Every five years we have a reunion because memories. Each brick will be engraved as you designate to make the family name a lasting
we have a good working committee to plan part of this timeless tribute or to record a special date, place or event. You need not be a
and help with the activities. The SHS Alumni to participate; all are invited to purchase a memorial brick.
outstanding characteristic of our class is that
Please fill out the form below to purchase your brick
although wwn ended in 1945, we felt a
4" X 8" brick - $75 each minimum donation
strong patriotism toward our country
throughout our high school years and many Please print
retained those feelings . Like many before Name________________________________ Maiden if Applicable._______
and after us who received an outstanding
democratic education at SHS, our Address___________________________________________________________
classmates have become fine professionals,
craftsmen, workers and independent, self- City_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ State,_ _ _ _ Zip Code,__________
reliant adults.
Class Year if Applicable,____________
We are pleased to have a strong Alumni
Association and we have donated our gifts You are allowed a maximum of 48 characters (3 rows with 16 characters per row).
to them so that the students of today will Characters include spaces and punctuation - 110 symbols please.
have the same opportunities we had.
Print clearly and exactly what you would like engraved on your brick in the boxes below.
We held a raffle with proceeds donated to
the Alumni Association. Our raffle included
a two-night luxury suite at the Venetian
Resort Hotel Casino in Las Vegas $450;
dinner for two at Postrio $150; dinner for
two at Grand Lux $75; two Gondola rides
$25; two Guggenheim tickets $30; two spa
packages at Canyon Ranch $270 - for a
total of $1,000. Raffle tickets sold for $5
for a book of 6 tickets. The winner was
Mary Lynn Berray of Aloha, OR.

BRICKLAYER Send check or money order to: South High School Alumni Association
WANTED 6613 Sunshine Drive - Omaha, NE 68107

Can you help lay Memorial Bricks at the ONE BRICK PER FORM PLEASE.
H.P. Smith Sports Complex? If so, please
contact the SHS Alumni Association at Please copy this form for your friends and relatives or for multiple brick orders.
738-9493.

PIE CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE

Need a gift idea, or a dessert? VILLAGE INN PANCAKE HOUSE. time to prepare your own dessert.
No time to prepare? Call Julie Diehm at 293-1719 or Pies include apple, cherry, coconut cream,
Why not buy a lemon meringue, lemon supreme, French
Sue at the Alumni office 738-9493.
Sweet Returns Pie Certificate? We will have certificates available silk, brownie,
Village Inn Pie Certificates sh'awberry rhubarb, triple berry;
Through June 30, 2004. also pecan and pumpkin in season.
on sale by the Alumni Association They make great gifts for Valentine's Day Other pies may be purchased for an
Board of Directors.
Easter, Mother's Day, Father's Day, additional $2.
Cost is $10 per certificate and Thank You, Thinking ofYou or Whatever.
pies can be picked up at any
Also great when you just don't have

Soutb Higb Scbool ALUMNI TOOTER PAGE 13

Ninth Annual

SPAGHETTI DINNER

Saturday March 20th, 2 004
4:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Sokol Hall South Omaha
21st and " U" Str eet

Tickets $7.00 per person
Sponsored by:

South High School Alumni Association

$7.00 price includes: Spaghetti and sauce, sausage, salad, bread, dessert
and coffee or tea

SPAGH ETTI SAUCE MADE & DONATED BY
SONS OF ITALY

SAUSAGE A LSO MADE B Y SONS OF ITALY

Cash bar available for beer and other beverages

Baskets with different items will be raffled off throughout the evening

Raffle tickets will be $1.00 each or 6 for $5.00

CARRY OUTS AVAILABLE

Tickets can be purchased at the door or
call the Alumni Association office at 738-9493 for more information

RAFFLE ITEMS AND BASKETS NEEDED

The 9th Annual Spaghetti Dinner is fast evening. If you, your company or anyone Sue at the Alumni Office 738-9493 by
approaching. If you have attended this fun you know would like to donate a basket of MARCH 10th!! We would appreciate your
event in recent years you remember the "gift goodies, a gift certificate or any NEW items extra baskets and raffle items.
baskets" that are raffled off throughout the that could be added to a basket-please call

PAGE 14 South High School ALUMNI TOOTER

Omaha South High Alumni Association Clothing
Order Form

Mail to SHSAA - 6613 Sunshine Drive - Omaha, NE 68107 - Call 738-9493

POLO SHIRTS - $15 Each - All Sizes
Alumni Association Logo at left breast - with or without pocket

Large X-Large XX-Large XXX-Large Total

White with pocket $_--
White without pocket $_--
Red with pocket $_--
Red without pocket $_--

GOLF SHIRTS (Sizes Run Large)
Omaha South "S" Alumni at left breast
Short sleeved - white with red collar & red sleeve band with black edging

Small $20 Medium $20 Large $20 X-Large $20 XX-Large $23 XXX-Large $23 Total
$_--

ORIGINAL TEE SHIRT DESIGN
Gray with Oligina1 SHS Alumni Association Logo

Large $10 X-Large $10 XX-Large $12.50 XXX-Large $12.50 Total
$,- - -

NEW TEE SHIRT DESIGN
Gray w/darker gray print of SHS Alumni repeated down the shirt w/1arge bull over the writing

Large $10 X-Large $10 XX-Large $12.50 XXX-Large $12.50 Total
$,---

COLORED TEE SHIRTS
Omaha South "S" A1ul1mi Centered on Front

Medium $10 Large $10 X-Large $10 XX-Large $12.50 XXX-Large $12.50 Total
Red $_--
Black $_--

LONG SLEEVED TEE SHIRTS
Omaha South "S" Alumni at Left Breast

Medium $15 Large $15 X-Large $15 XX-Large $18 XXX-Large $18 Total
$
Red $
White $
Black

WHITE ONLY LONG SLEEVED TEE SHIRTS
Omaha South "S" Alumni Centered on Front

Medium $15 Large $15 X-Large $15 XX-Large $18 XXX-Large $18 Total
$

SOllth High School ALUMNI TOOTER PAGE 15

ORIGINAL DESIGN GRAY SWEATSHIRTS WITH SCREEN PRINT

Large $20 X-Large $20 XX-Large $23 XXX-Large $25 Total
$_--

EMBROIDERED SWEATSHIRTS
Omaha South High Alumni wIBull Embroidered Across Front

Large $30 X-Large $30 XX-Large $35 XXX-Large $35 Total

Red $_--
White $_--
Black $_--

MISCELLANEOUS ALUMNI ITEMS

_ NO SPILL Mug @$6.00 each-gray wired Alumni Logo-perfect for home or travel $_ __

_ GOLF BALLS wlSouth Packer Pride imprinted $2 each or $6 per sleeve $_ __

_ PACKER BULL BEANIE BABY $5 each (Limited Quantity on Hand) $_ __

_ SOUTH HIGH ORNAMENT $10 each (Limited Quantity on Hand) $_ __

_ SOUTH HIGH ALUMNI ASOCIATION Lapel Pin $3 each (No Shipping Charges Applied) $_ __

CAPS EMBROIDERED WITH OMAHA "S' ALUMNI $12 EACH

_ Khaki with black letteling and trim $,---
_ Khaki with red lettering and trim $,- - -
_ Black with red lettering and trim $,---
_ Red with white lettering $,---

CAPS EMBROIDERED WITH SOB (SOUTH OMAHA BOy) $12 EACH

_ All red with white lettering $_--
_ White cap, red bill, lettering and trim $_--
_ Red cap with white lettering "SOG" (South Omaha Girl) $7.50 each $_--

Add $3 .00 shipping charges to EACH item. TOTAL SHIPPING $_--

I have ordered Items.

My order totals $ and my check payable to SHSAA (SHS Alumni Association) is enclosed.

NAME (MAIDEN NAME)_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

ADDRESS

CITY STATE ZIP _ _ _ _ _ CLASS YEAR _ __

HOME PHONE ( ) WORK PHONE ( ) _ _ _ _ _ _ __

E-MAIL ADDRESS

PAGE 16 South High School ALUMNI TOOTER

The Genuine. The Original 20% discount to SHS Alumni SPECIAL
$5 to SHSAA for each member sign-up
~:'?fi1.'_ _ INTRODUCTORY
~SO«'tU OFFER EXTENDED
Overhead Door Company of Omaha
Building ~epeat and Referral Business STILL $25 PER AD
D,V,S,ON OF J & R DOOR Co., INC.
1222 ROYAL DRIVE

PAPILLION, NEBRASKA 68046

RICK FRANK (402) 331-0526 2800 University Ave. #157 MICHAEL ROBERTS
General Manager Fax: (402) 331-1732 West Des Moines, IA 5026&1258 Founder
(515) 223-3880
E·Mail: [email protected]

HAWTHORN TOOTERADS NEEDED
-- SUITES~ @) ,
I want to help underwrite the next TOOTER
- issue by placing an advertisement as follows:
Company/person reserving space
Larry Gates, Class of 1966,
offers all Address

South High School Alumni City/State/Zip _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
a special rate of $59 plus tax
Phone ____________________________
for a Studio Suite at his E-Mail Address
Hawthorn Suites Hotel.
Camera-ready ad copy enclosed
We are Southwest Omaha's Yes ___ No ___,
premier Suite Hotel. but will be mailed _ _ _ _ _ _ _ (date)
We offer: Amount enclosed: $25 per ad for business
card size (per your special introductory rate)
Spacious suites with full kitchens payable to SHSAA.
Complimentary hot breakfast buffet served daily Mail to Alumni Office - 6613 Sunshine
Drive - Omaha, NE 68107
Complimentary evening social served Call 738-9493 if questions.
Monday-Thursday featuring a light supper with beer and wine

Complimentary airport transportation

Please mention this ad when making reservations
to receive special rate.

11025 M Street - Omaha, NE 6813 7 - 402/331-0101

THOMAS P. CULLINANE

OWNER

13736 Q Street. Omaha, Nebraska 68137
Phone (402) 895-6555 • Fax (402) 895-7810

Boyer Q Young 9805 Giles Road Your TOOTER has been
LaVista. NE 68128 printed by Digital Impressions.

~I'"':"'I REAL ESTATE CO.

~ CSP~Iv\.en Murray,
~ James Becher ·1961
Owner
New and Existing Home Sales Associate
3115 s. 61st Ave.
Representing: Sudbeck Homes Inc.
Omaha, NE 68106
www.kensellsomaha.com Cell: (402) 691).{)572 DlgitalImp'f.1!loru (402) 556-0335 PHN

&mall; [email protected] Ofc; (402) 334-3690 I I ( 0 I r 0 • J. I I .

www.BoyerYoung.com Fax; (402) 331-7515

DEVOTED VOLUNTEER RUTH (CHURCH) GULIZlA-1938

SOl/th High Scl100l ALUMNI TOOTER PAGE 17

2004 GOLF OUTING

ALUMNI & FRIENDS

OF SOUTH HIGH SCHOOL

SUNDAY, JULY 11TH
TREGARON GOLF COURSE

SHOTGUN START! 7:30 A.M. SHARP!

ENTRY FEE $65.00 PER PERSON

18 HOLES OF GOLF PLUS CART, BEVERAGES, MEN & WOMEN
TEAMS, 4-PERSON SCRAMBLE FORMAT, FLAG PRIZES & TEAM

PRIZES WITH LUNCHEON TO FOLLOW AT THE COURSE.

ENTRY DEADLINE IS JUNE 24TH.

WE ARE LIMITED TO THE FIRST 144 GOLFERS, SO PLEASE

ENTER EARLY TO GUARANTEE YOUR FOURSOME.

MAIL COMPLETED ENTRIES WITH CHECKS MADE OUT TO:

SOUTH HIGH ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
OMAHA SOUTH HIGH ALUMNI OFFICE
6613 SUNSHINE DRIVE, OMAHA, NE 68107

South High Golf Tournament Committee: Steve Andersen (731-6359) & Jason Calek (343-9384)

--------------------------------

NAME: -------------- TEL. #: - - - - - - - -
ADDRESS: -------------------------

CITY,STATE,ZIP: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ ___

* PLEASE ALLOW TIME FOR CHECK-IN AND ANY PRACTICE TIME PRIOR TO THE 7 :30 START. *
TEAM MEMBERS (PLEASE PRINT):

PAGE 18 South High School ALUMNI TOOTER

SOUTH HIGH SCHOOL ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

FIRST ANNUAL POKER RUN

May 8, 2004

(RAIN DATE MAY 15th)

ENTRY FEE $10.00 PER PERSON

REGISTRATION TIME 10 AM TO 11 AM

IN THE PARKING LOT OF

MECHANICAL SYSTEMS, INC.

7835 F Street - Omaha, NE

OPEN TOALL-
CARS ALSO WELCOME

EARLY REGISTRATION FORM
Name _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Maiden _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

Address _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

City _ _ _ _ _ __ State _ _ Zip _ __ Class Year _ __

Home Phone ( Work Phone ( )-------

Amount Enclosed $_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

FOR THOSE WHO REGISTER EARLY YOUR MAP/POKER HAND TALLEY SHEET
WILL BE AVAILABLE AT THE REGISTRATION TABLE WHEN YOU SIGN IN.

SEND CHECK PAYABLE TO: SHS ALUMNI ASSOCIATlON
6613 SUNSHINE DRIVE
OMAHA, NE 68107

ALL PROCEEDS DONA TED TO THE SHS ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
CALL (402) 738-9493 OR EMAIL [email protected]

South High School ALUMNI TOOTER PAGE 19

9TH ANNUAL BOWLINGSHOOTOUT

DEDICATED IN MEMORY OF FRANK PALMA SR.

01. ~~1)I..1.0".")c..~. MARCH 20, 2004 D0 0ll. Pll.1~/J8
LEOPARD LANES .
1b.C;f.-.V
BELLEVUE, NE.

SPONSORED BY; OMAHA SOUTH HIGH ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

2 SESSIONS WILL BE HELD

1ST SESSION: CHECK IN 10:30 A.M. START 11:00 A.M.

2ND SESSION: CHECK IN 1:30 P.M. START 2:00 P.M.

PLEASE FILL IN TIME PREFERENCE OR ONE WILL BE ASSIGNED

(WE WILL CALL IF TIME IS DIFFERENT THAN REQUESTED)

CHECK ONE:

_ _ _ _ _ _$,15.00 BOWLERS WITHOUT AN AVERAGE

_ _ _ _ _ _$, 20.00 BOWLERS WITH AN AVERAGE (2002-2004)

SESSION PREFERENCE_ _ _-.;;EARLy LATE

NAME ADDRESS CITY,STATE & ZIP AVERAGE

-------~----------------------------.----------------- -----------------------------------

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

--------------------------------------------~--------- -----------------------------------

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

DIVISION PRIZES TO BE AWARDED BASED ONNUMBER OF BOWLERS

COMPLETE ABOVE INFORMATION AND MAIL WITH CHECK
TO S.H.S.A.A.-C/O SOUTH HIGH ALUMNI OFFICE
6613SUNSHINBDRIVE-OMAHA, NE 68107
FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL (402) 738-9493

OR VERONICA UHE(402) 592-2850DAYOR9BO-4111 NIGHT

PAGE 20 Soulh High School ALUMNI TOOTER

SPORTS GREATS BANQUET ATTENDEES

AL HERNANDEZ & BOB CAMPOS CHUCK BRUNO DAVE VAN METRE

\ JACKPHILBY TONY PALMA

'--------' \

FRITZ STANEK

SUE SMITH SHARON & RON EISSLER JEANNIE & JERRY PORTERFIELD

South High School ALUMNI TOOTER PAGE 21

SPORTS GREATS BANQUET ATTENDEES

IRENE (BOWMAN) & BOB ASTLEFORD CHRlSTINE STELLA & TONY JACKSON

DON CLAUSSEN, OUDIOUS LEE, JAN PHILBY, JOHN STELLA, DON VODICKA, RAY VODICKA,TONY VODICKA (ON BEHALF OF THEIR BROTHER, JERRY VODICKA)

JACK MILLER, FRANK NEWELL, TONY BUTERA DON DIGIAGAMO, MATT FERRO, LOUIE MARCUZZO & FRANK FERRO

PAGE 22 SOllth High School ALUMNI TOOTER

SPORTSGREATSBANQUETATTENDEES

OUDIOUS LEE'S SISTER AND MOTHER •

JOE & SHARON STELLA

FRANK FERRO & RICH QUINTERO

JOHN STELLA, JR. RON PATTON & HACKETT PHILBY MRS. OUDIOUS LEE

SOflth High School ALUMNI TOOTER PAGE 23

SHSAA BOARD GATHERING

TERESE & RON CERONE JOHN & BEV MORAVEC KRAYNESKI

JASON CALEK & GUEST (RIGHT) WITH STEVE & JANA ANDERSEN

SCOTT & SANDIE KNUDSEN RUDY & JUDY TESAR

ALUMNI TOOTER Non-Profit Org.
SOUTH HIGH SCHOOL ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
c/o DICK GULIZIA u.s. POSTAGE
440 SOUTH 119 STREET
OMAHA, NE 68154 PAID
(402/330-3954)
OMAHANE
RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED
Pelmit No 1652

THIS IS YOUR TOOTER

Editorial Board

Dick Gulizia
Sue Smith
Judi Clark Limas

2004 CALENDAR OF UPCOMING EVENTS:

3-20-04 9th Annual Bowling Shoot-out at Leopard Lanes, Bellevue - see details and entry fOIID in this TOOTER.
E-mail Veronica @[email protected] with questions or suggestions.

3-20-04 9th Annual Spaghetti Dinner at Sokol Hall South Omaha - see details and entry form in this TOOTER.
4-17-04 Board of Directors Meeting. 9:30 A.M. - SHS Room 254 - All Alumni are welcome.
5-8-04 Poker Run - see details and entry form in this TOOTER.
7-11-04 SHS Alumni Annual Golf Outing at Tregarron - See details and entry form in this TOOTER.
7-17-04 Board of Directors Meeting, 9:30 A.M. - SHS Room 254 -All Alumni are welcome.