St. Mary's School to host All-School Reunion on May 18, 2008

     The event will honor Mr. Gus Kimball, a Winfield resident, who has spent more than forty years as a volunteer athletic coach and Athletic Director at the school. Mr. Kimball and his wife, Ardis, sent their eight children to St. Mary's in the 50's, 60's and 70's and he has continued on with the athletic programs ever since. This year Mr. Kimball has decided that it is time to retire at the age of eighty-seven. His dedication and commitment to our school is a remarkable act of service and he will be truly missed.

     The reunion event will be held on Sunday, May 18, 2008 and begin with a special Mass at 10:00 a.m. at the Church which is located at 140 Oakwood in West Chicago. Immediately following the Mass at 11:00 a.m. there will be an honorary dedication of Garden Street as "Gus Kimball Way" behind the church at the corner of Garden and York. Mayor Michael Kwasman will be in attendance and will bestow the honor to Mr. Kimball along with Nancy Coughlin, the school principal.

     It is interesting to note that in order to gain approval for our request to get an honorary street name, the city of West Chicago had to develop and pass an ordinance allowing honorary street signs in the city. I believe this means that ours will be the first in West Chicago. Alderman Al Murphy was a great help in accomplishing this task along with the Mayor, Paulette Ollie, a school parent and Phil Weibler, a school board member.

      The festivities then move to Boondocks, formerly King James Restaurant (1200 W Hawthorne), for an open house luncheon from 11:00 - 3:00 p.m.. There will be a formal ceremony at 1:00 to award Mr. Kimball a token of our appreciation and to hear some kind words from: his oldest son, David, Alec Gizzi, a former coach and from Mrs. Coughlin, the school principal.

Pamela Doll, Volunteer Media Liaison, 630-562-9660

Mrs. Coughlin, School Principal. 630-231-1776