West Catholic Live: Recent Episodes
West Catholic High School
West Catholic LIVE! is a podcast and Facebook Live show co-hosted by Principal Tony Fischer and content strategist John Gonzalez. This is a great resource of all the news and information that students and parents, as well as alumni, need to know. Our goal: "To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic education." Learn more at https://www.grwestcatholic.org/ and our Facebook page, @grwestcatholic.
Content strategist John Gonzalez and Principal Tony Fischer co-host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School.
This is the last show of the 2022-2023 school year.
Season 2, Episode 38:
In the Weekly Chatter segment we cover:
The West Catholic Theatre Program's pop can and bottle drive this weekend, Friday 3-6pm and Saturday 9am-noon. Just pull your car up outside door 10 to drop off your cans and bottles. You don't even need to get out of your car if you don't want to! All proceeds go to supporting the 2023-2024 theatre season.
Summer Camps - Registration is open for our summer camps but spots are filling up quickly! Sign up now to reserve your students’ place in our sports and fine arts camps. Visit grwestcatholic.org for a full list of offerings and to register today.
The show features:
School counselor Leah Ebbert, who talks about next week's exams.
Co-teacher Molly Bergman, who is home recuperating from donating a kidney.
Our West Catholic Live student aids - Cass and Bree - who have their last video of the year.
Assistant sports director Caleb Houser, who has an update of our Spring sports teams still in action.
And President & CEO Jill Annable, who has a few words about a couple summer events you want to be sure to add to your calendar.
This show aired on Wednesday, May 31, 2023.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Megan Pittman is our athletic director.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
On Tuesday, May 23, 2023, West Catholic High School celebrated the Class of 2023 with a commencement ceremony at West. After leading Mass earlier in the day at Holy Spirit, Grand Rapids Catholic Diocese Bishop David Walkowiak was on hand to confer diplomas.
In his speech, co-chaplin Fr. Andrew Ayers talked about how he loves West Catholic's mission statement, to "make disciples or followers of Christ." "It's one of the best things about West Catholic High School."
Fr. Andrew announced earlier in May that he will not be returning to West Catholic this fall. He has been co-chaplin since 2019 after his ordination. He will continue to serve as pastor at St. Catherine Parish in Ravenna, St. Francis Xavier Parish in Conklin and St. Joseph Parish in Wright.
West Catholic Live is a show that airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel during the school year.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Megan Pittman is our athletic director.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
On Tuesday, May 23, 2023, West Catholic High School celebrated the Class of 2023 with a commencement ceremony at West. After leading Mass earlier in the day at Holy Spirit, Grand Rapids Catholic Diocese Bishop David Walkowiak was on hand to confer diplomas.
In his speech, Class Valedictorian Randle Kado talked about how "strong" the class of 2023 is with "cancer survivors, star athletes, future doctors, lawyers, teachers and the list goes on. I don't think anyone could name a stronger class than ours."
Here is her entire speech.
West Catholic Live is a show that airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel during the school year.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Megan Pittman is our athletic director.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
On Tuesday, May 23, 2023, West Catholic High School celebrated the Class of 2023 with a commencement ceremony at West. After leading Mass earlier in the day at Holy Spirit, Grand Rapids Catholic Diocese Bishop David Walkowiak was on hand to confer diplomas.
In his speech, Class Valedictorian Randle Kado talked about how "strong" the class of 2023 is with "cancer survivors, star athletes, future doctors, lawyers, teachers and the list goes on. I don't think anyone could name a stronger class than ours."
Here is her entire speech, as well as the FULL introduction from senior class advisor Gloria Coste de Falk.
West Catholic Live is a show that airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel during the school year.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Megan Pittman is our athletic director.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
On Tuesday, May 23, 2023, West Catholic High School celebrated the Class of 2023 with a commencement ceremony at West. After leading Mass earlier in the day at Holy Spirit, Grand Rapids Catholic Diocese Bishop David Walkowiak was on hand to confer diplomas.
In his speech, Class Salutatorian Ethan Droski talked about much the class has grown over four yearsafter entering school as "scared little freshmen."
Here is her entire speech, as well as the FULL introduction from senior class advisor Gloria Coste de Falk.
West Catholic Live is a show that airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel during the school year.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Megan Pittman is our athletic director.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
On Tuesday, May 23, 2023, West Catholic High School celebrated the Class of 2023 with a commencement ceremony at West. After leading Mass earlier in the day at Holy Spirit, Grand Rapids Catholic Diocese Bishop David Walkowiak was on hand to confer diplomas.
In his speech, Class Salutatorian Ethan Droski talked about much the class has grown over four years after entering school as "scared little freshmen."
Here is her entire speech.
West Catholic Live is a show that airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel during the school year.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Megan Pittman is our athletic director.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
On Tuesday, May 23, 2023, West Catholic High School celebrated the Class of 2023 with a commencement ceremony at West. After leading Mass earlier in the day at Holy Spirit, Grand Rapids Catholic Diocese Bishop David Walkowiak was on hand to confer diplomas.
In her speech to the Class and those in attendance, President and CEO Jill Annable talked to students about their uniqueness and individuality, quoting the school's patron Saint, Pope John Paul II, saying each one of us is "unrepeatable."
Here is her entire speech.
West Catholic Live is a show that airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel during the school year.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Megan Pittman is our athletic director.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Content strategist John Gonzalez and Principal Tony Fischer co-host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School.
Season 2, Episode 37:
In the Weekly Chatter segment we cover Sports Physicals, openings for the Steubenville Youth Conference this summer and the upcoming Exam Schedule - June 6-9. Then we have segments on Spring Sports with Assistant AD Caleb Houser, WCTV's first show without seniors, the Marching Band's upcoming appearance at the Memorial Day Parade (Tuesday, May 30) and clips from Graduation 2023.
This show aired on Wednesday, May 24, 2023.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Megan Pittman is our athletic director.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Content strategist John Gonzalez and Principal Tony Fischer co-host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School. This week, filling in for Mr. Fischer is Josh Kohane, director of campus ministry.
Season 2, Episode 36:
In the Weekly Chatter segment we cover all the things you need to know about graduation. Then, we talk about summer camps at West Catholic, as well as how you can spruce up your Garden this summer. And finally we leave you with teaxchers leaving words of encouragement to our West Catholic Class of 2023
This show aired on Wednesday, May 17, 2023.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Megan Pittman is our athletic director.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Content strategist John Gonzalez and Principal Tony Fischer co-host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School.
Season 2, Episode 35: In honor of Teacher Appreciation Week, we run down the best qualities of each of our 35 teachers! The mock awards were voted on by our students. We also have the results of Falcon Cup 2023. The show opens with a little differently since we had some audio problems, but we were able to include all of our teachers!
This show aired on Wednesday, May 10, 2023.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Megan Pittman is our athletic director.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
In this special broadcast of West Catholic Live, the WC Falcons Varsity baseball team (7-12) take on the Fruitport Trojans in an OK Blue Conference matchup (May 11, 2023). The teams split a doubleheader on Tuesday, May 9, 2023. The co-hosts are Jack Vande Guchte and Hayden Girardot, juniors at West Catholic. As part of the pre-game show, West Catholic’s content strategist John Gonzalez interviews baseball coach George Rosinski about the May 16 Wall of Fame induction ceremony.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Megan Pittman is our athletic director.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
On Wednesday, May 3, WGVU's Shelley Irwin interviewed Dabin Lee and Violet Appel, two of West Catholic's representatives on Enigma 2075, which placed in the Top 4 of the FIRST Robotics Competition World Championships (April 19-22). Also joining them was Natalie Scalabrino, West Catholic's Communications Director.
Enigma 2075 is made up of students from West Catholic, Kenowa Hills, Jenison and West Michigan Aviation Academy.
Learn more about WGVU at wgvunews.org.
Learn more about West Catholic at grwestcatholic.org.
Learn more about Robotics Team Enigma 2075 at thebluealliance.com/team/2075.
ABOUT ROBOTICS
The FIRST Robotics Competition is the ultimate Sport for the Mind. Student participants call it “the hardest fun you’ll ever have.”Under strict rules, limited resources and an intense six-week time limit, teams of students are challenged to raise funds, design a team “brand,” hone teamwork skills, and build and program industrial-size robots to play a difficult field game against like-minded competitors. It’s as close to real-world engineering as a student can get. Volunteer professional mentors lend their time and talents to guide each team. Each season ends with an exciting FIRST Championship.
Content strategist John Gonzalez and Principal Tony Fischer co-host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School.
Season 2, Episode 34 includes the Weekly Chatter, as well as segments about:
Adam Antor, former West Catholic E-Sports and marketing/communications director, who just landed a new job at Ferris State University as a teacher.
* AP Testing is taking place this week and next. We have a report with counselor Mrs. Leah Ebbert.
* Speaking of our AP classes, teacher Emilee Lowell surprised her AP Goverment students with a video of support from Michgan politicians.
* Also, the Siena Community is preparing to defend their Falcon Cup title on May 9.
* Our WC Live student reporters Cassie and Bree* do a story this week on fashion trends. It might surprise you to see who the star of the video is!
* And our Girls Soccer Team is ready to face off against a rival in what is being described as the biggest match ever played at Falcon Stadium. We have a preview.
This show aired on Wednesday, May 3, 2023.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Megan Pittman is our athletic director.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Content strategist John Gonzalez and Principal Tony Fischer co-host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School.
Season 2, Episode 33 includes the Weekly Chatter, as well as segments about:
The West Catholic Robotics Team 2075 returned from Houston this week and placed Top 4 in the FIRST Robotics Competition World Championships (April 19-22). Thanks to WZZM-TV13 for stopping by campus.
* Our teachers relive their prom days with students from WCTV. (Prom for West is Saturday, April 29, 2023.)
* Then Spanish teacher Lauren Smith and sophomore treasurer Abby Ludwick* talk about Spring Fling, which is Friday, April 28 in the Aux Gym.
This show aired on Wednesday, April 26, 2023.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Megan Pittman is our athletic director.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
We broadcast Game 1 of a DH vs. Sparta. West Catholic enters the game with a 4-2 record. Sparta is 2-4.
Content strategist John Gonzalez and Principal Tony Fischer co-host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School.
Season 2, Episode 32 includes the Weekly Chatter, as well as segments about:
The West Catholic Robotics Team 2075 is in Houston this week for the FIRST Robotics Competition World Championships (April 19-22). We have interview two members, junior Vilolet Appel and sophomore Will Clancey. Only 600 teams are at the competition.
* We also interview Paul Dressel, the team’s coach and mentor, who arrived a day early to transport the team's robot.
* Then we talk to Josh Kohane*, our director of campus ministry, about the importance of prayer as a community.
Robot matches from the 2023 FIRST Championship will stream live on FIRSTtv across various Twitch channels. Don't miss the Closing Celebration show at 2:30 p.m. Saturday, April 22.
See complete schedule here.
This show aired on Wednesday, April 19, 2023.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Megan Pittman is our athletic director.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
John Gonzalez gives a rundown of what's on today's show, which airs at 3 p.m. on Facebook and YouTube.
Welcome to our "Falcon Spotlight Podcast," where we get to meet some of the inspiring teachers, staff members, coaches and students who make West Catholic High School a special place.
On this episode, we feature Fr. Andrew Ayers, who grew up in Grand Rapids and attended St. Thomas. Even though he is a graduate of Catholic Central High School in Grand Rapids, he has loved his last four years as co-chaplain at West Catholic H.S.
Along with presiding over Mass every other Tuesday and hearing confessions on Fridays, he is also the chaplain at three small parishes in West Michigan: St. Catherine's in Ravenna. St. Joseph in Wright and St. Francis Xavier in Conklin.
In this podcast (which was recorded just before the Easter holiday), Father Andrew talks with Josh Kohane, our director of Campus Ministry. They talk about his upbringing, his love for architecture and his favorite coffee houses, in addition to what he loves about West Catholic.
Falcon Spotlight - Fr. Andrew Ayers
Hometown: Chicago (raised in Grand Rapids)
Job Title: Co-chaplain
How many years at WC: 4
Favorite thing about your job, and why: I love hearing confessions…I also appreciate being in a high school, because high school might not have been the easiest time for me. I have no stress here. Just the fun stuff, doing what I love to do. It’s beautiful.
Something you may not know about me: One of my favorite things to do is design buildings. Architecture is a hobby….I keep my house tech free. No TV. It’s quite liberating.
We asked him the following questions:
How did you get to West Catholic? After seminary I received a letter that I was assigned to OLC in Rockford. I handed my mom the letter, and she said, ‘Oh, I see you’re also at West Catholic!’ I guess I didn’t read the whole letter.
Tell us a little bit about your faith journey: I started playing Mass in kindergarten. My family became Catholic when I was 8 years old. By high school I still wanted to be a priest. In seminary I realized everything I do as a priest is so the people of God can be benefited.
Favorite memories at West Catholic? Last year I went to the Kairos retreat for juniors. It was amazing, especially to hear the gift of faith the Lord gives these kids. …I've also enjoyed getting to know the teachers. I think of my role as not just for the students, but for the whole staff. It's been wonderful seeing their faith and seeing them grow in a relationship with the Lord.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President/CEO is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Content strategist John Gonzalez and Principal Tony Fischer co-host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School.
Season 2, Episode 31 includes the Weekly Chatter, as well as segments about:
The student-led WCTV show, which debuted before Spring Break,
* The new softball/baseball facility upgrades (we talk to Caleb Houser, the assistant athletic director),
* and 2006 grad Casey Jones* of WOOD-TV8, who will co-host April 14's Celebrate West Auction with Mr. Fischer.
This show aired on Wednesday, April 12, 2023.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Megan Pittman is our athletic director.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Content strategist John Gonzalez and Principal Tony Fischer co-host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School.
Season 2, Episode 30 includes the Weekly Chatter, as well as segments about:
A new season of student-led WCTV debuted Wednesday morning. We will show the opening segment.
* PE teacher and girls track track coach Mike Van Dyke is this week’s Falcon Spotlight. We interviewed him.
* Fr. David Sacha* and Gonzo talk to students about Spring Break.
* And then Fr. David talks to a few of the priests who were here to hear confessions on Tuesday.
This show aired on Wednesday, March 29, 2023.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Megan Pittman is our athletic director.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Content strategist John Gonzalez and Principal Tony Fischer co-host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School.
Season 2, Episode 29 includes the Weekly Chatter, as well as segments about:
The Robotics Team's successful weekend tournament, placing second overall in Muskegon and getting closer to the State Tournament and National Championship.
* Details about Fine Arts Week, which contines this week with a big showcase at 7 p.m. Thursday, March 23.
* Special in-studio guest Dave Faber*, Superintendent of Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Grand Rapids, to talk about the Strategic Plan.
* And more about last week's Kairos Retreat.
This show aired on Wednesday, March 22, 2023.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Megan Pittman is our athletic director.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Welcome to our "Falcon Spotlight Podcast," where we get to meet some of the inspiring teachers, staff members, coaches and students who make West Catholic High School a special place.
On this episode, we feature senior Joop Schulten who is a member of our Priestly Discernment Group and the leader of our recent Kairos Retreat.
In this podcast, Joop talks about his favorite teachers, why he doesn’t want a traditional “office job” and why students should consider West Catholic High School. His biggest advice to students in helping them succeed: “Do your homework…..Reach out if you need help.”
Falcon Spotlight - Joop Schulten
Hometown: Parnell, MI (Current Residence); Lynchburg, VA (Born)
Grade: 12
Favorite Subject: Physics
Favorite teacher, and why: Mrs. Shymko, her sarcasm makes class more interesting
Sports/Clubs: Priestly Discernment
Favorite Food: Any kind of red meat
Hobbies: Hiking/Backpacking
Something classmates might not know about you: I enjoy having lengthy conversations with close friends.
Q&A:
What do you love about the West Catholic community? I love how some teachers are absolute gems. My favorite memory is walking into the first day of Algebra II Junior year, then, when Mr. Lynch was doing attendance, he sighed, looked down, then said "I thought I got rid of you" (referring to me). We have a good relationship, but this one interaction is easily the funniest and most memorable.
* Tell us more about your favorite teacher or subjects.* I enjoy the sarcasm of Mrs. Shymko. It just feels so honest and refreshing. The minor conflict is more exciting than the smooth platitudes of all the other classes I take.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President/CEO is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Content strategist John Gonzalez and Principal Tony Fischer co-host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School. Senior Karlie Kurlenda fills in for Gonzo, who is on the Kairos retreat with students, as well as a few teachers and staff.
Season 2, Episode 28 includes the Weekly Chatter, as well as segments about:
* The Women's Basketball team, with details about the upcoming games at the Breslin Center,
* Our recent success at a Math Competition at the University of Michigan-Flint,
* Details about Fine Arts Week, whis March 20-24,
* And more about the Kairos Retreat.
This show aired on Wednesday, March 15, 2023.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Megan Pittman is our athletic director.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Content strategist John Gonzalez and Principal Tony Fischer co-host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School.
Season 2, Episode 25 includes:
* the Weekly Chatter,
* segments about the Boys and Girls Basketball teams,
* Households St. Mary's Food Drive (March 10),
* and "Cinderella," which opens tonight for five performances (March 8-11) at the Aquinas College Performing Arts Center. (Tickets are available on our website at grwestcatholic.org/theatre.)
This show aired on Wednesday, March 8, 2023.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Megan Pittman is our athletic director.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Content strategist John Gonzalez and Principal Tony Fischer co-host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School.
Season 2, Episode 24 begins with Weekly Chatter, our news segment about West Catholic HS.… followed by a Sports heavy show as West Catholic enjoys increible success this winter season.
We also acknowledge West Catholic’s Concert Band, which performed Feb. 24 at the Michigan School Band & Orchestra Association’s Festival and - for the sixth straight year - received straight 1s (superior rating). Read more about it at grwestcatholic.org.
Weekly Chatter
Cinderella: Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella opens next week with five performances (March 8-11) at the Aquinas College Performing Arts Center. Theater director Justina Ouellette is so excited for everyone to see this show. Tickets are available on our website at grwestcatholic.org/theatre.
TICKETS ARE GOING FAST!
Show Dates:
* Wednesday, March 8 @ 7 p.m.
* Thursday, March 9 @ 7 p.m.
* Friday, March 10 @ 7 p.m.
* Saturday, March 11 @ 2 p.m. AND 7 p.m.
*Parent Teacher Conferences:* They are from 3:30-7 p.m. Thursday, March 9. Parents should receive email to sign up before the end of the week.
Parent Guild: Is hosting a roundtable discussion entitled "Exploring College Options from a Catholic Lens." It takes place on Tuesday, March 7 from 6:45-8:15 p.m. in the MAK Board Room. All parents welcome to attend. Questions? Email us at parentguild@grwestcatholic.org
*St. Mary's Food Drive:* It is Friday, March 10. Students who bring in 10 items or more can earn a dress-down day. More details to follow in Households.
Junior Class Apparel Sale: This sale is open to all and benefits the junior class who put on an AMAZING prom every year! This year, we have beanies, trucker hats, slouchy sweatshirts, and many more affordable options than usual. Talk to a member of the junior class for order information or use the form in Monday’s upcoming Weekly Chatter. Deadline March 15.
WC Strategic Plan: As you may know, West Catholic is currently working to develop a new strategic plan that will launch in the fall of 2023. It is our goal to hear from a wide variety of groups within our community as we build our 20-year dream together. We encourage you to be part of our strategic plan and share your insights for the future of West Catholic by completing a short survey in the Weekly Chatter.
On this week’s show…
Students from in Mr Dudas’ Broadcasting class, who are prepping for another season of the student-run WCTV, interview athletes from various sports teams.
Reporter Ellie Bies talks to a member of our Ski team, Joey Flickinger.
* Reporter Cadence Dykstra talks to a member of our Bowling team, Kayla VanLinden.
* And reporter Karlie Kurlenda turns things around on Cadence,* one of five finalists for Michigan's Miss Basketball, and interviews her about the team's incredible season.
More sporting news....
Competitive Cheer:
* Conference Champions – back-to-back
Wrestling:
* Aniah Tan, Emerson Whitcell, and Jessica Martinez are our girls wrestlers who all qualified for the State meet. Jessica Martinez finished 1st overall in her region, Aniah Tan finished 2nd, and Emerson finished 3rd.
* Cole Karasinski and Noah Abram also qualified for state thanks to their regional performances. Cole finished 1st as the overall region champ and Noah took 3rd in his weight class.
* Cole is currently undefeated on the season and won his 150th career match during the regionals. He has took 1st place overall champion honors for the conference, district, and region. He is now a 4x state qualifier in his career.
* Wrestlers will leave Thursday to head to Detroit's Ford Field.
Girls Hoops:
* Ladies finished the season 21-0 as the unbeaten conference champions. The girls are currently ranked #1 in the state for their division and Detroit Free Press has them #1 regardless of division.
* Girls play Wednesday at 5:30pm vs. Forest Hills Eastern. A win over the Hawks would put them into the District Final vs. the winner of Sparta and Catholic Central.
Girls Bowling:
* Girls won the team conference title.
* Girls also won the regional title as a team and qualified for team state which takes place Friday.
* Senior Kayla Van Linden was also named the overall regional bowling champion. She will Bowl Saturday for the individual state finals.
* Additional girls to qualify for the individual states includes Ashley Van Linden, Mylee Dykstra, and Amber Whitson.
Hockey:
* GR Christian Co-Op Hockey won their fist playoff game last Friday night over Hudsonville 5-0. Our own Danny Groszkiewics had a goal and 2 assists on the night with Landon Smith also scoring a goal.
* Boys take on Byron Center Wednesday night at 7:30 at Georgetown Ice Arena.
* This season the team also won their first conference title in over ten years.
Boys Basketball:
* Freshman Connor Olszewski was named All-Conference honorable mention for Boys basketball.
This show aired on Wednesday, March 1, 2023.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Megan Pittman is our athletic director.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Gabe’s Journey
In this special podcast, Chris Augdahl, the father of West Catholic High School senior Gabe Augdahl, appears on the "Sports Project Radio Show," hosted by the Professor, Steve Project (Feb. 18, 2023).
On the show, Chris talks about a fundraiser and awareness night (Feb. 17) to support the Desmoid Tumor Research Foundation in honor of Gabe. The night brought the community together with a special "Faith Over Fear" T-shirt sale, as well as other activities. The goal was to raise $5,000, but has now pushed to $15,000-plus after the game.
"It's overwhelming. We're humbled, too," Chris said on the show. "It turned into a big event, above and beyhond what we expected."
In the podcast, Chris talked about how the tumor was first diagnosed, and how the family is dealing with it.
The high school basketball player was diagnosed in the summer of 2021. A Desmoid tumor is a very rare soft tissue tumor. Only 5 million people a year are diagnosed. Make a donation at donate.dtrf.org.
Learn more about The Desmoid Tumor Research Foundation (DTRF) at https://www.facebook.com/Desmoid
Learn more about the Sports Project Show at https://www.facebook.com/SportsProject/.
Learn more about West Catholic sports at https://grwestcatholicsports.org/
Content strategist John Gonzalez and Principal Tony Fischer co-host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School.
Season 2, Episode 24 begins with Weekly Chatter, our news segment about West Catholic HS.… followed by updates about Bakhita Feast Week, Wake Up West and Mid Winter Break.
Weekly Chatter
Kairos Retreat (March 14-17): Kairos is a four-day, three-night immersion experience for WC JUNIORS that helps you create stronger bonds of love for yourself, your classmates and God! Sign up by Friday, Feb. 24! Questions? Contact Mr. Kohane at joshkohane@grwestcatholic.org.
Congratulations to all of our students who were named to the 2nd-Quarter Honor Roll! Students will be on the Honor Roll if they have earned a grade of B- or higher in each course.
Blood Drive: West Catholic is hosting a blood drive on Friday, Feb. 24! Students who sign-up to donate blood will get a free dress-down day on the day of the Blood Drive. You must sign-up by Wednesday, Feb. 22 in order to receive this incentive. There is a link on our website to sign up.
On this week’s show…
We learn more about the Theater Department’s upcoming production of Cinderella (March 8-11). Buy tickets HERE.
* Our students in our WCTV Broadcasting Class* get into the spirit of Fat Tuesday by teaching us a little bit about the history of Paczki.
* And we talk to students and staff about how they are preparing for the season of Lent.
This show aired on Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2023. It was pre-recorded on Feb. 16.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Megan Pittman is our athletic director.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Content strategist John Gonzalez and Principal Tony Fischer co-host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School.
Season 2, Episode 24 begins with Weekly Chatter, our news segment about West Catholic HS.… followed by updates about Bakhita Feast Week, Wake Up West and Mid Winter Break.
Weekly Chatter
Art teacher Lisa Nawrocki's 2021 ArtPrize entry, "A Journey Through Grief," will be dedicated on Feb. 23 in the newly renovated Faith Hospice at Trillium Woods. For more about Mrs. Nawrocki's art and her inspiration for the piece, check out the post on our website!
On Monday we welcomed more than 20 students for West Catholic Shadow Days, an opportunity for 8th-grade students to be paired with a West Catholic student to experience a day in their lives. Students get to sit in on a few classes, eat in the lunchroom and meet future classmates. Upcoming dates are:
* Friday, March 10
* Friday, March 31
* Monday, April 17
To schedule a shadow day or individual visit, please email our Admissions Director Julie Wilmer atadmissions@grwestcatholic.org or call her at 616-233-5920.
Just a reminder: Mid-Winter Break is Feb. 20-21. We will be coming back on Ash Wednesday and are celebrating Mass that day. Don't forget to wear your Oxfords! Oh, and No School on March 3. West Catholic teachers are out of the building on Friday, March 3 for Diocesan-wide professional development.
Congratulations to all of our students who were named to the 2nd-Quarter Honor Roll! Students will be on the Honor Roll if they have earned a grade of B- or higher in each course.
Blood Drive: West Catholic is hosting a blood drive on Friday, Feb. 24! Students who sign-up to donate blood will get a free dress-down day on the day of the Blood Drive. You must sign-up by Wednesday, Feb. 22 in order to receive this incentive. There is a link on our website to sign up.
A fundraiser and awareness night to support the Desmoid Tumor Research Foundation is underway in honor of Gabe Augdahl, a senior at West Catholic. A free throw contest and other activities are planned for the Feb. 17 varsity basketball games at West Catholic.
The Bishop’s Act of Contrition policy was announced on Feb. 15 in a letter sent to parents.
On this week’s show…
* Dean of students and director of Households Sean Nolan talks about the Feast of Josephine Bakhita.
* Then we stop by Wake Up West with co-teacher Molly Bergman to load up on some coffee.
* And lastly we talk to students about the upcoming Mid-Winter Break. A lot of them said they’re studying. Scratch that. Sleeping.
This show aired on Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2023.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Megan Pittman is our athletic director.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Welcome to our "Falcon Spotlight Podcast," where we will get to meet some of the inspiring teachers, staff members, coaches and students who make West Catholic High School a special place.
On this episode we feature Dean of Students Sean Nolan, who also is director of our Households System where students and staff strive together for excellence in Prayer, Presence and Persistent Growth.
In this podcast, WC's content strategist John Gonzalez covers a variety of topics with Mr. Nolan, including Feast Weeks, the Households System and the fact he as a twin brother in the GR Diocese.
Here is some biographical information he provided.
Falcon Spotlight - Sean Nolan
Hometown: Muskegon, MI
Job Title: Dean of Students and Director of Households System
How many years at West Catholic: In my 11th year
Favorite food: Steak, medium-rare
Favorite thing about my job and why: I really enjoy seeing the success stories for students who are able to accomplish what they, behaviorally or academically, weren't yet doing. Their successes are really meaningful for me as an administrator because it means that the student gains a better sense of the vocation God has for them, the love that Jesus Christ offers them.
Something you might not know about me: I have an identical twin brother who is a Catholic priest for this Diocese.
A few questions he answered....
What do you love about the West Catholic community?
My professional journey has involved a bit of academic training: I have a Master's degree in Theology and another Master's degree in Philosophy. As part of those degrees, I was then hired to teach Theology here at West Catholic and, later on, also took up teaching Latin.
Tell us more about your family and personal life.
I've been married for nearly 13 years now. My wife and I have six beautiful children, aged 10 to 2 months. I grew up in Muskegon, and my wife grew up in Westphalia, so Grand Rapids is a nice middle ground for us between where our families are from.
What do you love about the West Catholic community? What are your favorite memories?
I've been consistently impressed with the generosity of the families here at West Catholic, with their openness to working together. I remember a couple of years ago at the Back to School BBQ cleaning up and so many students and parents stayed behind to help clear chairs, move tables, take out the trash, etc. We also have a really wonderful tradition here of Eucharistic Adoration in the St John Paul II Chapel.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. The Athletic Director is Megan Pittman.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
In the summer and fall of 2022, West Catholic High School installed new bleachers and press boxes at the baseball and softball fields, added new tennis courts and debuted new bleachers at Falcon Stadium.
On this special episode of West Catholic Live, Strategic Content Coordinator John Gonzalez interviews Jan Beerthuis, the construction superintendent who oversaw these projects. Jan, who has worked at Rockford Construction for 27 years, is passionate about his company and its core values. He speaks in-depth about those values as they relate to the construction projects at West Catholic. He also discusses careers in skilled trades, which are an important part of Rockford Construction's success.
Learn more about careers, opportunities and projects at Rockford Construction at https://rockfordconstruction.com/.
Look for West Catholic updates and more content on the school's social media channels.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on WC's Facebook page and YouTube channel during the school year. West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Our Mission: To form disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Content strategist John Gonzalez and Principal Tony Fischer co-host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School.
Season 2, Episode 22 begins with Weekly Chatter, our news segment about West Catholic HS.
On this week’s show:
* English Teacher and Junior Class Advisor Gillian Palmer stops in to talk about "Crush" sales. Students/staff can purchase crushes for all types of people in your life! The deadline is Feb. 10. Crushes will be delivered to students, staff and teachers on Tuesday, February 14. Link to Order!
* Our crew from student-run WCTV stops in to talk more about crushes.
* Argentine students give a presentation about life in their country.
* And two students from KCTC's advanced pastry class share some cake with students.
This show aired on Wednesday, Feb. 8, 2023.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Megan Pittman is our athletic director.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Content strategist John Gonzalez and Principal Tony Fischer co-host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School.
Season 2, Episode 22 begins with Weekly Chatter, our news segment about West Catholic HS.
WEEKLY CHATTER
Catholic Schools Week: Our students have been busy this week with more planned. Mass at West Catholic is Thursday, and the Here’s My Heart Assembly and talent show is Friday.
2023 Falcon Awards Night: Our Development team is asking for your help in searching for nominees. You can find a form in Monday’s Weekly Chatter or go to our website, grwestcatholic.org. You can also contact Megan Eversman or Taylor Holman in our development office.
Crush Sales. We have "crushes" for all types of people in your life! If you're feeling mysterious, there is even an option to make it anonymous. The deadline is Feb. 10. Crushes will be delivered to students, staff and teachers on Tuesday, February 14- just in time for VALENTINE'S DAY! Link to Order!
On this week’s show:
* WC Live reporter Cassandra Sisk is a member of the Ski Team and she takes you to the slopes.
* We catch up with Commended Scholar Ethan Droski.
* Catholic Schools Week continues with a variety of activities, including a special Family Holy Hour with Adoration tonight (Feb. 1). We have more details about that.
* Our competive cheer team gets staff invoved in a skills challenge.
* And we meet Saturday’s DJ for Here's Your Heart Dance.
This show aired on Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2023.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Megan Pittman is our athletic director.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Content strategist John Gonzalez and Principal Tony Fischer co-host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School. Filling in for Mr. Fischer this week is Josh Kohane, director of Campus Ministry.
Season 2, Episode 21 begins with Weekly Chatter, our news segment about West Catholic HS.
WEEKLY CHATTER
*Here's My Heart: The annual dinner/dance will be on Feb. 4 at Noto's Old World Italian Restaurant from 7-11 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and close at 7 p.m. Dinner will be provided with dessert. Tickets are $50 a person. To buy a ticket, students must fill out the form that was sent out Monday in Weekly Chatter. The deadline is 3:30 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 27. Guest passes are due on Wednesday, Feb. 1 at 3 p.m. Questions or concerns? Talk to Mrs. Coste de Falk or email her.
Catholic Schools Week: Is from Jan. 29-Feb. 3, and West Catholic students will be very involved with activities in school and with our partner schools throughout the Diocese. These include:
On Monday, many of our students will be out at our partner schools volunteering as part of our Helping Hands Day.
* In Households on Tuesday we will be writing letters to seminarians and St. Ann’s Home residents.
* The Boys powderpuff volleyball game is on Wednesday.
* Mass at West Catholic is Thursday.
* And the Here’s My Heart Assembly is Friday.
Celebrate West Auction: The Development Team has begun planning our annual Celebrate West Auction! They are asking for gift card donations in the value amounts of $20 or more. Donations can be mailed or dropped off in the Main Office. They are also looking for Bucket Raffle donation items, for example: coolers, camping chairs, electronic items, grills, gift baskets, sports memorabilia, etc. If you have any questions or would like to make a donation, please contact Megan Eversman.
Shake Your Tail Feathers: Congrats to Mr. Laprise the Band Boosters, who have worked hard to put on Saturday's event in the Cafetorium. Thanks to the sponsors who have paid for 25 Veterans to attend the dance and dinner.
On this week’s show:
* We visit two students who reflect on the recent March for Life Rally in Washington DC. Our Student For Life Advisor, Pat Nugent, even crashes the interview.
* As we get ready to welcome incoming freshmen to campus for our Welcome to West event in February, two students -- Cassie and Bree -- sit down with our Admissions Director to talk more about the event.
* We hear from a senior who has advice for freshmen.
* Fr. David Sacha spends time in the lunchroom talking to students for his "At the Table" podcast.
* And WC Live sports reporter Emma Chrystan catches up with the cheer team.
This show aired on Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2023.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Megan Pittman is our athletic director.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Welcome to our "Falcon Spotlight Podcast," where we will get to meet some of the inspiring teachers, staff members, coaches and students who make West Catholic High School a special place.
On this episode we feature senior Kayla Van Linden, a member of the bowling team since her freshman year, who is off to another great season. She hopes to make it back to the state tournament after winning regionals last year.
In this podcast she talks about bowling, of course, as well as her love for photography why she says a vanilla ice cream cone is her favorite food. And she says Mr. Nawrocki is her favorite teacher. She also offers advice for incoming freshmen.
Here is some biography information she provided.
Falcon Spotlight - Kayla Van Linden
Hometown: Grand Rapids
Grade: Senior
Favorite Subject: Physics
Favorite Teacher, and why: Mr. Nawrocki, favorite class (physics) in high school, we talk about bowling and car crashes a lot. Sports/Clubs: Varsity bowling
Favorite Food: Vanilla ice cream cone
Hobbies: Photography, bowling, painting
Something classmates might not know about you: I will be bowling in college.
A few questions he answered....
1. What do you love about the West Catholic community? "One of my favorite things that I’ve seen done at West Catholic is the big events such as the fish fry and the arts and crafts show. I loved helping out for the craft show because everyone is so nice and really genuine when volunteering."
2. Tell us more about your favorite teacher or subjects. "Physics class is by far my most favorite that I’ve taken. Mr. Nawrocki is a fantastic teacher and people are really missing out on a fun time if they don’t take his physics class!"
3. What are your career goals? Where do you see yourself in 5 years? "I’m not sure what I’ll major in yet, but I can see myself running my photography business for a long time, taking pictures (senior photos especially!) is one of my favorite things to do."
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our President and CEO-Designate is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Content strategist John Gonzalez and Principal Tony Fischer co-host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School.
Season 2, Episode 20 begins with Weekly Chatter, our news segment about West Catholic HS.
WEEKLY CHATTER
Twelfth Night: Each year West Catholic and Catholic Central theatre programs collaborate to put on a Shakespeare production. This year’s show, Twelfth Night, opens tomorrow (Jan. 19) at Aquinas College’s Performing Arts Center. We have five West Catholic students in this year’s cast. We’ll be posting a link for tickets on our social media channels shortly after the show, so stay tuned for that.
New Semester: Just a reminder that first semester ends Friday. Second Semester begins Jan. 23. No block scheduling that week.
Strategic Planning: West Catholic is embarking on a strategic planning timeline and we need your help. We’re asking parents/guardians, alumni, community members and West Catholic supporters to attend one of three in-person brainstorming sessions to help us build the 20-year dream of West Catholic! Sessions will be held on Thursday, Jan. 26, Tuesday, Jan. 31 and Friday, Feb. 10. To RSVP for one of these sessions, please check your Weekly Chatter or visit the announcements page on our website.
On this week’s show:
We hear from our director of bands, Darren Laprise, about their annual Shake Your Tail Feathers fundraiser, which is Jan. 28. (Registrations due January 22. https://grssc.ejoinme.org/SYTF23)
We sit down with outgoing President & CEO Cynthia Kneibel, who reflects on her career at West Catholic HS. (Listen to the FULL PODCAST here.)
We talk to teacher Pat Nugent, who will be leading students this weekend to the annual March for Life Rally in Washington D.C. (Listen to his FULL PODCAST here.)
Also, junior Maria Worrell won first place in the GR Right to Life Essay contest. (LISTEN TO HER READ HER ESSAY here.)
Josh Kohane, our director of Campus Ministry, talks about retreats, including Friday’s Juniors Retreat and registration to the annual Steubenville Youth Conference this summer in Ohio. (Listen to the FULL PODCAST here.)
Also, we spotlight the young women - seniors Jessica Martinez & Aniah Tan, and freshman Emerson Whitscell - on our wrestling team. Senior Emma Chrystan is our on-site reporter.
This show aired on Wednesday, Jan. 18, 2023.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our President and CEO-Designate is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
On this podcast, West Catholic Principal Tony Fischer interviews outgoing President & CEO Cynthia Kneibel about a career that started 20 years ago as a teacher. She became principal in 2011 and was named president/CEO in 2020. She retires from her job as president/CEO on Friday, Jan. 20. We can't thank her enough for her contributions to our school and students!
A portion of this podcast aired on West Catholic Live on Wednesday, Jan. 18, 2023.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our President and CEO-Designate is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org
In this podcast, West Catholic's Strategic Content Coordinator John Gonzalez interviews junior Maria Worrell, who recently won first place in the Grand Rapids Right to Life Essay Contest. She will receive $100 and have her essay submitted to the national contest.
According to Grand Rapids Right to Life, "the Prolife Essay Contest encourages students to thoughtfully examine and articulate their prolife beliefs."
In this posdcast, Maria said it was her mom, Tricia, who used to work for Right to Life, who taught her the values of life from an early age. She also submitted an essay for the same contest in middle school.
"It's nice to write down how I'm feeling about something, and to really be able to share it with people," she said.
In addition to winning the contest, Maria also will be joining 40 other students from West Catholic High School on the March for Life Rally (Jan. 18-21) in Washington D.C. She has been on the trip before and is looking forward to the speakers and sightseeing.
On this podcast, Maria also reads her essay.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President/CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our President/CEO-Designate is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education
On this Podcast, Josh Kohane, the director of Campus Ministry at West Catholic High School, talks about retreats, more speficially:
The annual Steubenville Conference (June 23-25, 2023) at Franciscan University of Steubenville (Ohio), which requires to sign up asap. It is open to all students, including incoming freshmen through outgoing seniors. Cost is around $275. A $50 deposit is required by Feb 1. The balance is due in March. Students interested should fill out this form.
Also, Mr. Kohane talks about the Junior Retreat on Friday, Jan. 20, which is an all-day event for juniors.
And he refers to the annual Kairos Retreat, also for juniors, in the Spring, which is over multiple days and requires advance registration.
Learn more about retreats at West Cathlolic at https://www.grwestcatholic.org/retreats/.
Mr. Kohane is available via email at joshkohane@grwestcatholic.org.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our President and CEO-Designate is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org
Welcome to our "WC Spotlight Podcast," where we will get to meet some of the inspiring teachers, staff members, coaches and students who make West Catholic High School a special place.
On this episode we feature teacher Pat Nugent, who teaches Freshmen religion and AP Economics. He has been at West Catholic High School for 30 years.
Content strategist John Gonzalez and communications director Natalie Scalabrino (a WC alum) interview Mr. Nugent about the upcoming March For Life Rally, where he will take a group of about 40 students to Washington D.C. (Jan. 18-21, 2023). He has led a group of students to the March since 2001.
It's inspiring to hear his words.
Here is some of the biography information he provided.
WC Spotlight - Pat Nugent
Hometown: Lowell
Subjects: Freshman Religion, AP Economics (now, but lots of religion and math classes over the years)
How many years at WC: 30
Favorite food: Fast Food burgers
Favorite thing to teach, and why: Church History -- As Catholics, Church History is our history. It is the story of who we are and how we came to be the Church we are today
You might not know: I have written many articles and books about the history of my parish (St. Patrick's, Parnell) and Grattan Township where my family has lived since the 1840s. I am the sexton of St. Patrick's Cemetery -- I am responsible for marking gravesites, digging holes for cremains, and placing monuments. I have served on the Lowell Area Schools Board of Education since 1989.
A few questions he answered....
Why do you teach?
"I have always wanted to be a teacher. My mom is a teacher and all of my siblings are also teachers. I enjoy knowledge and learning, and I like to share my knowledge."
Tell us more about your personal life.
"I play trivia every week with a team of former West Catholic students (some of them former members of my Quiz Bowl team) and some of their parents. Our team was State Champions in 2019."
What do you love about the West Catholic community?
"West Catholic truly is a community--a second family. I have lots of memories. The kids and their parents are very supportive, but most of all the staff is a great group of people to work with every day. Great mentors like Sandy Golembiewski, Mary McGrath, Mike Cherrette, and Mike Martin. Great friends like Sandy Golembiewski, Rita Totoraitis, and Gloria Coste de Falk."
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our President and CEO-Designate is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Content strategist John Gonzalez and Principal Tony Fischer co-host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School.
Season 2, Episode 19 begins with Weekly Chatter, our news segment about West Catholic HS.
WEEKLY CHATTER
The Development Team wants to say “Thank You” to all of our gracious donors for supporting West Catholic with your year end giving! Now that 2023 has begun the team is looking ahead to our annual Celebrate West Auction! We are asking for gift card donations in the value amounts of $20 or more. Donations can be mailed or dropped off in the Main Office. We are also looking for Bucket Raffle donation items, for example: coolers, camping chairs, electronic items, grills, gift baskets, sports memorabilia, etc. If you have any questions or would like to make a donation, please contact Megan Eversman at meganeversman@grwestcatholic.org.
Congratulations to 11th grader Maria Worrell, who recently was named a winner of the Grand Rapids Right to Life essay contest. She will take home $100 and be entered into a national contest. This is the second year in a row that a West Catholic student has won the essay contest.
Maria and nearly 40 West Catholic students and chaperones will be traveling next weekend to Washington D.C. for the March for Life Rally.
*Look for an interview with teacher Pat Nugent, who leads the trip annually, on next week’s show.
Just a Reminder: We have no school on Monday, Jan. 16, in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
On this week’s show:
*We’ll tell you more about the staff’s Weight Loss Challenge, which began officially on Tuesday.
*We will learn more about teacher Carolyn Hathaway in our new Spotlight video and podcast series.
*And we talk to Dean of Students Sean Nolan about some activities for Households as we prepare to celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
This show aired on Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2023.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our President and CEO-Designate is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Welcome to our inaugural "Spotlight Podcast," where we will get to meet some of the inspiring teachers, staff members, students and those behind the scenes who make West Catholic High School a special place.
On this episode we feature teacher Carolyn Hathaway, the head of our English Deartment, as well as psycology teacher. She has been at West Catholic High School for 12 years.
Host John Gonzalez interviews Mrs. Hathaway about a variety of topics, including why she loves teaching, why she loves West Catholic High School and why she calls herself a "Word Nerd and Jesus Freak.
Here is some of biography information she provided.
WC Spotlight - Carolyn Hathaway
Hometown: Apex, North CarolinaSubjects: English, Psychology & AP Psychology
How many years at WC: 12 years
Favorite food: Butternut squash soup.
Favorite thing to teach, and why: Psychological terminology, because it applies to everyone.
You might not know: She has been hearing impaired since a child.
A few more things about me.....
"I grew up in a small town in North Carolina. When I was a little girl, I would set up all my dolls in chairs or on the floor and I would use my older sister’s grammar textbook to teach my dolls grammar. I read all the time… the dictionary, encyclopedia, any novel I could get my hands on. I consider myself a Word Nerd and a Jesus Freak. My dad was a devout Catholic, which at that time in the southern U.S., made us a bit of a minority. His quiet sharing of his faith life and prayer habits made an indelible impression on me, for which I am so grateful."
"My husband and I have 5 children, all of whom have been educated at West Catholic. Our youngest, Gianna, graduates this year. My career goal was always to be a wife and mother, and I loved being at home while our children were young. As they all began to get older, I returned to school at Aquinas to earn my Master’s degree in Education, as I had earned my bachelor's degrees in English and psychology before motherhood."
"I was working as a parapro at St. Thomas (an excellent school, by the way), and I had stopped in to Adoration for an hour at West Catholic. When I emerged from the chapel, Ms. Hoodhood flagged me down from the far end of the hall. She knew I had recently completed my studies in Education at Aquinas, and she had a long term substitute teaching position coming open in her department, which was English, of course. I was ecstatic to be considered for the position. From the first day, I loved everything about teaching at West Catholic."
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our President and CEO-Designate is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Content strategist John Gonzalez and Principal Tony Fischer co-host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School.
Season 2, Episode 18 begins with Weekly Chatter, our news segment about West Catholic HS.
WEEKLY CHATTER
Celebrate West Auction: We are looking for new and exciting Live Auction items for the 2023 Celebrate West Auction! Examples include: travel & dinner experiences, concert tickets, family packages, sporting events, etc. If you have any donations or questions, please contact Megan Eversman.
Shake Your Tail Feathers: Shake Your Tail Feathers, West Catholic Band Boosters’ annual dinner/dance fundraiser, is set for Saturday, January 28, 2023. This year’s theme is Falcons for Freedom. Tickets are on sale now - link available on our announcements page.
International Students: We are excited to welcome students from Argentina and Brazil for a short-term program. But we still need families to host 2 boys and 1 male chaperone from Argentina. They arrive Jan. 7 and leave Feb. 8. Stipends are available. Please contact the school if you are interested in hosting a student.
The show also features:
*An interview with director of Campus Ministry Josh Kohane, who reflects on the passing of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI. He and Fr. David Sacha, WC's co-chaplain, sat down and talked about the Holy Father means to the Church. Look for a YouTube video soon with both interviews.
*A short clip from the West Catholic Band prepping for Thursday's annual Christmas concert at 7 p.m. in the Cafetorium. Junior High bands from Holy Spirit, Holy Trinity, Saint Anthony and Assumption schools also will perform.
*And students, teachers and staff talk about New Year's Resolutions.
This show aired on Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2023.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our President and CEO-Designate is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
On December 15, 2022, West Catholic's Choir held its annual Christmas concert - The Sights & Sounds of Christmas - at St. Patrick Parish, Parnell. Our students performed a number of incredible songs to help prepare our hearts for the holiday season. We hope you enjoy! Permission to stream the music in this service was obtained from One License with license # A-719991-A. All rights reserved.
Content strategist John Gonzalez and Principal Tony Fischer co-host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School.
Season 2, Episode 17 begins with Weekly Chatter, our news segment about West Catholic HS.
WEEKLY CHATTER
*The West Catholic Spirit Store will be open this week from 12-4 p.m. Thursday. If you need any last-minute Christmas gifts, it’s a great place to shop!
*West Catholic’s Main Office will be closed during Christmas Break as we celebrate the holiday season. The office will resume regular business hours the day we come back on Tuesday, Jan. 3.
*West Catholic’s annual Christmas Mass will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 3 at 10:15 a.m. This year we will be bringing our students to Holy Spirit for Mass. We invite parents, friends and community members to join us.
*And the Band Concert is Thursday, Jan. 5. More information to come.
The show also features:
*Another episode of Father David Sacha's At the Table Podcast (he asks students to sing their favorte Church Christmas song),
*An interview with Joe Houdek, music director at West Catholic High School, as he prepared for the Dec. 15 concert at St. Patrick in Parnell.
*And a sneak preview of the show with a song from the choir.
This show aired on Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2022.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our President and CEO-Designate is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Content strategist John Gonzalez and Principal Tony Fischer co-host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School.
Season 2, Episode 16 features:
Senior Emma C of Fly High Sports who reports from Tuesday's Varsity basketball double-header.
Art Teacher Lisa Nawrocki, who shows off some of the beautiful art throughout the building, and even at the local Post Office.
A visit from St. Nicholas, whose feast day was Dec. 6.
And students from the school's new broadcasting class, WCTV, who rank what they love about Christmas.
This show aired on Wednesday, Dec. 7, 2022.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our President and CEO-Designate is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Content strategist John Gonzalez and Principal Tony Fischer co-host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School.
Season 2, Episode 15 features:
Information about this weekend's Craft Show, which features 220 booths at West Catholic High School. The show is from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission is $3. Proceeds benefit all athletic programs at West Catholic. Learn more at https://www.grwestcatholic.org/christmas-craft-show/
Father David Sacha, who is developing the "At the Table" podcast, which we hope to debut soon. He walks around the lunchroom asking students questions. This week he wants to know what team Jesus might be rooting for in the World Cup.
Cam Burns, associate athletic director, gives us an update on the Girls Basketball team's big win Tuesday over Hudsonville, and he also says goodbye. His last day at school is Dec. 2. He has moved on to another job. He will remain as head JV Girls Basketball coach.
Follow the Girls Basketball season at https://grwestcatholicsports.org/.
Head football coach Landon Grove talks about the team's Ford Field and thanks the community for all of its support.
This show aired on Wednesday, Nov. 30, 2022.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our President and CEO-Designate is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
While on the Michigan's Sports Radio halftime show with Joe Sack and Tom Mikowski, President & CEO Designate Jill Annable talks about the importance of scholarships and financial aid for students at West Catholic High School.
This interview took place at Ford Field during the West Catholic-Negaunee game on Nov. 25, 2022. West Catholic won the Division 6 finals game, 59-14.
Incoming and returning families: The deadline for priority consideration for financial aid is December 1, 2022. We also have about 40 named scholarships available to students based on need and/or merit. Applications for these scholarships are due no later than December 16, 2022. We encourage you to submit all necessary applications as soon as possible to make the most of our tuition assistance programs.
Financial Aid:
https://www.grwestcatholic.org/applying-for-aid/
Scholarships:
https://www.grwestcatholic.org/scholarships/
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our President and CEO-Designate is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Josh Kohane, Director of Campus Ministry at West Catholic High School, leads the school through Daily Prayer. Here is today's prayer for Monday, Nov. 28, 2022:
"O Lord, as we enter this season of Advent, this time of waiting and anticipation, fill me with the hope of Christ. Help me to wait in great expectation for your great light to shine in this world, for all who are living in darkness to see the dawning of your light. This world can be so dark, so troubling, so full of despair, yet you are light and love. May your light fill all the darkest corners of this world. and all the darkest corners of my own heart. May your love conquer all despair and hate, leading us all to a better life in you. This is the hope of Christmas, that the birth of a baby – Jesus Christ, your Son – will change the world, and will work a change in my own life. Lord, I pray to be filled with this hope that light will triumph over darkness, love will conquer evil, and Jesus will save us all. This I pray through your Son Jesus Christ, Amen."
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our President and CEO-Designate is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
John Gonzalez and Tony Fischer talk briefly about today’s game (Nov. 25) of the D6 MHSAA finals - West Catholic vs. Negaunee. We’re at Ford Field!!!!
Content strategist John Gonzalez and Principal Tony Fischer co-host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School.
Season 2, Episode 15 features:
Tom Mikowski and Joe Sack of Michigan Sports Radio, who have broadcast football games at West Catholic HS for more than a decade, and Sunny FM's Mark Evans, morning show co-host who has a long history of broadcasting Negaunee Miners football.
The announcers break down how each team made it to the MHSAA Division 6 finals, and what fans can expect from the game. The Falcons and Miners play at 4:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 25, 2022 at Ford Field.
This show was recorded Tuesday, Nov. 22.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our President and CEO-Designate is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Content strategist John Gonzalez and Principal Tony Fischer co-host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School.
Season 2, Episode 14 features:
Admissions Director Julie Wilmer, talks to us about scholarship and upcoming deadlines.
Father David Sacha, who is developing a Podcast, which we hope to debut soon. He walks around the lunchroom asking students about Jesus and what sports he might play if he was going to West Catholic High School.
We go to weight room to get a few tips from our strength and conditioning coach about working out during the holidays.
And then Mr. Fischer talks to head football coach Landon Grove as part of the WC Football Update.
This show aired on Wednesday, Nov. 16, 2022.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our President and CEO-Designate is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Content strategist John Gonzalez and Principal Tony Fischer co-host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School.
Season 2, Episode 13 features:
A spotlight on Veterans Day, and how we will celebrate as a community with Mass. We talk to former teacher and coach Murray MacGready about what Veterans Day means to him. (Mass is at 10:20 a.m. Friday, Nov. 11. It is open to the public.)
A clip from our President and CEO Cynthia Kneibel’s interview last week on Michigan Sports Radio (MSR). They talk about a scholarship in her name.
And MSR hosts Tom Mikowski and Joe Sack stop by to talk to head football coach Landon Grove as part of the WC Football Update show.
Mr. Fischer and Gonzo also congratulate the Volleyball team, which advances to the Regional finals game against Fruitport at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 10 at Comstock Park High School. It would be the first regional title in school history.
This show aired on Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2022.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our President and CEO-Designate is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Content strategist John Gonzalez and Principal Tony Fischer co-host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School.
Season 2, Episode 12 features:
Our AP Spanish Class, which built an Ofrenda for Dia de Muertos.
Religion teacher Pat Nugent fills, who us in on All Souls Day.
Coach Landon Grove, who is joined by Bret Bakita to talk about the big game against Constantine.
An interview with our coach and captains of our Mock Trial Team.
This show aired on Wednesday, Nov. 2, 2022.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our President and CEO-Designate is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
On this special edition of West Catholic Live, Father David Sacha (WC, 2014) celebrates All Saints Day at West Catholic High School, encouraging students to be Saints of their own so our school becomes a "place of peace, love and joy."
This Mass was celebrated on All Saints Day, Nov. 1, 2022 at West Catholic High School.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our President and CEO-Designate is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Content strategist John Gonzalez and Principal Tony Fischer co-host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School.
Season 2, Episode 11 features:
Three of our German students who are here for three weeks as part of our International program.
A Fly High Sports Update with Cam Burns (Cross Country regionals on Saturday, Volleyball tournament on Tuesday, Nov. 1).
Head Football Coach Landon Grove, who is interview by Tom Mikowski and Joe Sack of Michigan Sports Radio about Friday's playoff game against Watervliet.
And Rockford Construction's Jan Beerthuis, who has been on site this summer and fall to oversee a major construction project to upgrade baseball and softball stadiums, as well as football's new bleachers and new tennis courts.
This show aired on Wednesday, Oct. 26, 2022.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our President and CEO-Designate is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
West Catholic President & CEO-Designate Jill Annable appeared last Friday (Oct. 21, 2022) on Michigan Sports Radio with Tom Mikowski and Joe Sack at halftime of the West Catholic-Unity Christian game. She talked about her love for West Catholic, Cynthia Kneibel’s impact on the school and how much West Catholic has changed - yet remained the same - since she graduated in 2002.
Learn more about West Catholic at https://www.grwestcatholic.org/.
Learn more about Michigan Sports Radio at https://michigansportsradio.com/.
West Catholic High School's President and CEO-Designate Jill Annable and Admissions Director Julie Wilmer were interviewed (Oct. 23, 2022) on WOOD Radio's "Talk of the Town." Co-hosts Steve Kelly and Bret Bakita asked about the benefits of a West Catholic education, including rigorous academics, extracurricular activities and vibrant student body. They also talked about the current International program with 20-plus students from 11 different countries, and the upcoming Experience West event for middle schoolers.
Learn more about West Catholic at https://www.grwestcatholic.org/.
Learn more about WOOD Radio at https://woodradio.iheart.com/.
Co-teacher Molly Bergman and Freddy the Falcon appeared on Star 105.7 last week (Oct. 21, 2022) to talk about "Experience West," which is an event open to all families with middle schoolers. It’s from 6:30-8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 25.
She also talked about her new student-led coffee shop, Wake Up West.
Learn more about West Catholic High School at https://www.grwestcatholic.org/.
Content strategist John Gonzalez and Principal Tony Fischer co-host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School.
Season 2, Episode 10 features:
Mr. Fischer's favorite Halloween candy; can students and Fr. David Sacha predict what he likes this time of year?
An interview with football Coach Landon Grove.
Mr. Josh Kohane, our campus ministry director, who talks about next week’s St. John Paul II’s Feast Week.
Our Fall play - The Plot, Like Gravy Thickens - which opens today and continues through Oct. 22.
And our student-led Broadcast Media Class has put together another episode of WCTV, which they are calling the Dub. We have a segment from the show.
This show aired on Wednesday, Oct. 19, 2022.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our President and CEO-Designate is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Darren LaPrise, band director at West Catholic High School, sits down with John Gonzalez of West Catholic Live to talk about the his band's Division 1 / Superior rating at the MSBOA Marching Band Festival on Oct. 11 in Zeeland. The band was forced to perform in an auditorium because of rain.
"Because of the weather (Tuesday) night, our performance was moved inside. We were on our way to Zeeland in a massive caravan when we found out. Our parents and our kids handled a crazy situation beautifully. It was really the of no one that we had to suddenly change gears from what we had been prepared for," he said.
READ MORE: https://www.grwestcatholic.org/msboa-d1/
WATCH: The full performance at https://youtu.be/Wsz-xBX2qDU
Congratulations to the band and Mr. LaPrise!
By the way, if you want to see the band perform its full show OUTDOOR, you can see them at halftime of Friday's football game or at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 15, when it performs at Allendale High School as part of a showcase with other schools.
GoWest
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our President and CEO-Designate is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Content strategist John Gonzalez and Principal Tony Fischer co-host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School.
Season 2, Episode 9 features:
Cam Burns, associate athletic director, who gives a Sports Update on all sports! He also has an interview with Myah Sutter of the Equestrian Team.
A Football Update with football coach Landon Grove and a special co-host, science teacher Tim Nawrocki.
We hear from our director of bands, Mr. Darren LaPrise. It was a big night for the band program last night, scoring all 1s at MSBOA in Zeeland. Learn how the band had to move indoors because of the rain.
We have a construction update with Jan Beerthuis of Rockford Construction.
And we have a short interview with one of our moms from the Ukraine, who was visiting the students.
This show aired on Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2022.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our President and CEO-Designate is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Content strategist John Gonzalez and Principal Tony Fischer co-host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School.
Season 2, Episode 8 features:
Weekly Chatter - tidbits about events coming up next week, including FAFSA Night Oct. 6 in the MAK, and a community Blood Drive on Oct. 7. Sign up at https://donate.michigan.versiti.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/140435). The show also includes results from the All A's Walk.
Mr. Fischer and Mr. Gonzalez also include:
Details about the Marching Band performance on Oct. 8 at Pulaski Days, which comes right after the Parade at 11 a.m.,
Details about the Choir's performance at 7 p.m. Oct. 8 at the Cathedral as part of the Aquinas College's Choral Invitational.
And news that Ethan Droski is a Commended Scholar.
This show aired on Wednesday, Oct. 5, 2022.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our President and CEO-Designate is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Content strategist John Gonzalez and Principal Tony Fischer co-host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School.
Season 2, Episode 7 features:
Weekly Chatter - tidbits about events coming up next week, including the Sept. 29 Financial Aid Planning Workshop and Experience West, which is a special event Oct. 25 for 8th graders.
The show also features:
Details about St. Padre Pio Week for students, which concludes with games on Thursday (Sept. 29), including some fact from students with insight from religion teacher Tim Horst,
Details about the All A's Walk, which is Oct. 4,
Counseling News, which includes a FAFSA Information Night from 6-8 p.m. on Oct. 6 in the MAK, as well as half day of testing on Oct. 12,
A clip from Coach Landon Grove about Friday's game at Hamilton,
And the debut of Wake Up West Coffee Shop.
This show aired on Wednesday, Sept. 28, 2022.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our President and CEO-Designate is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Content strategist John Gonzalez and Principal Tony Fischer co-host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School.
Season 2, Episode 6 features:
Weekly Chatter - tidbits about events coming up next week, including the Sept. 29 Financial Aid Planning Workshop and Experience West, which is a special event Oct. 25 for 8th graders.
The show also features:
A construction update,
A clip from Coach Landon Grove about the Homecoming,
A spotlight on the WC Volleyball team, which this week is ranked No. 6 in Division 2,
And information about Homecoming, including Thursday's Powderpuff Game of Seniors vs. Juniors.
We also hear from Myah Sutter, who is going to Regionals Sept. 30 as part of the Equestrian Team.
This show aired on Wednesday, Sept. 21, 2022.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our President and CEO-Designate is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
On today's West Catholic Live Podcast, content strategist John Gonzalez sits down with senior Myah Sutter, who is competing Sept. 30-Oct. 1 in the Division 4 Equestrian Team Regionals in Mason, Michigan.
"She is a true ambassador for West Catholic and shows respect to all her fellow competitors, coaches, other families, and judges," said Peppi Rotella, who wrote to us about Myah.
"Myah is non-stop from Friday after school until 7 p.m. Sunday prepping and competing only to come home to awaiting schoolwork so she can maintain her 4.0+ GPA."
In the Podcast, the aspiring lawyer talks about her passion for horses and the fact she refers to her team as "we," knowing that her team consists of herself, a coach and two horses. She wants to thank everyone for their support.
In fact, there is a can drive going on at school to help with some of her expenses for her competition in Regionals.
"She has worked very hard for this and has quite the support staff from Kyra Hannah (Coach and former West Catholic student), parents David Sutter and Dawn Rotella both of which are instrumental in making these weekends go as smoothly as possible so Myah can concentrate on competing and doing her best to be a positive figure for West Catholic. I have never met someone with such determination and drive to be the best at something they love so passionately, she joined the West Catholic community and took it upon herself to convert to Catholicism, which she completed last year with support of friends, family, and teachers from West Catholic during her confirmation. It was amazing to see the support from her teachers."
Watch Myah on West Catholic Live, which airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our President and CEO-Designate is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Content strategist John Gonzalez is joined by communications director Natalie Scalabrino, who fills in for Principal Tony Fischer on West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School.
Season 2, Episode 5 features:
Weekly Chatter - tidbits about events coming up next week, including the Sept. 29 Financial Aid Planning Workshop and Homecoming Week. Tickets are on sale now for Juniors and Seniors in the lunch or in Room 116! The dance is on Saturday, Sept. 24 from 8-11 at "home." Tickets are $25 a person. You will need to fill out a Google Form before ticket purchase. Guest passes are available in the main office.
The show also features a construction update about the new baseball and softball improvements, as well as tennis courts and football bleachers.
An update about Friday's first home football game at Falcon Stadium, which is also the team's Honor Game and debut of the new bleachers. Game info at https://grwestcatholicsports.org/.
And a spotlight on Mexico, which celebrates its Independence Day on Sept. 16. We meet senior Alvaro Munoz, an international student from Guadalajara, Mexico.
This show aired on Wednesday, Sept. 14, 2022.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our President and CEO-Designate is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Principal Tony Fischer and content strategist John Gonzalez co-host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School.
Season 2, Episode 4 features:
Weekly Chatter - tidbits about events coming up next week, including Volleyball's Block Out Cancer game on Sept. 13, Grandparents/VIP Mass on Sept. 13 and an information night for a 2023 Pilgrimage to the Holy Sites of Italy. That night is Sept. 14. They also include details about the Robotics Team Information Night (Sept. 7) and Kick Off event on Sept. 10 at WC High School. Get all the details at https://grwestcatholicsports.org/.
The show also features a construction update about the new baseball and softball improvements, as well as tennis courts and football bleachers.
Associate Athletic Director Cam Burns' weekly sports update.
And a spotlight on Brazil, which celebrates its Independence Day on Sept. 7. Leann Garrison, West Catholic's International Program Coordinator and ESL Teacher, introduces us two of our International students from Brazil, Carlos Bezerra and Jose Marcio Da Silva.
Some facts:
Brazil is famous for its stunning beaches, rainforests, and diverse cities.
The Brazilian football (soccer) team has won the World Cup a record 5 times.
Brazil is the largest country in both South America and Latin America.
Brazil is the world's fifth-largest country by area and the seventh most populous.
The official language in Brazil is Portuguese.
Almost 2/3 of the country's population – 123 million people – identify as Catholic. The most of a any country in the world.
Our students were served two Brazilian desserts during today, Brigadeiros, the most popular dessert in Brazil and Pacoca, which is commonly served during “Festas Juninas,” that take place in June. These are celebrations to honor Saints Anthony, John and Peter, and the start of harvest season.
John and Tony also shared info about Homecoming:
Tickets are on sale now for Juniors and Seniors in the lunch or in Room 116! The dance is on Saturday, Sept. 24 from 8-11 at "home." Tickets are $25 a person. You will need to fill out a Google Form before ticket purchase. Guest passes are available in the main office.
This show aired on Wednesday, Sept. 7, 2022.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our President and CEO-Designate is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
President and CEO-Designate Jill Annable joins Principal Tony Fischer as co-host of West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School.
Season 2, Episode 3 features:
Weekly Chatter and tidbits about events coming up next week.
A construction update about the new baseball and softball improvements, as well as tennis courts and football bleachers.
Details about the All A's Walk from Megan Eversman.
Band Director Darren LaPrise, who reflects on a busy summer and new fall season.
Head football coach Landon Grove about his team's first big win of the season.
And everything you need to know about Jill Annable, a 2002 graduate of West Catholic who takes over the reins on Jan. 20 when President and CEO Cynthia Kneibel officially retires.
Tony, a 1995 graduate of West Catholic, and Jill reminisce about their high school days. Jill was voted "most likely to be president." Tony was "most involved."
This show aired on Wednesday, Aug. 31, 2022.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our President and CEO-Designate is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
On this special "West Catholic Live" podcast, content strategist John Gonzalez talks to Megan Eversman, a Development Department assistant and organizer of the All A's Walk at West Catholic High School.
This is an annual tuition assistance fundraiser with a goal of $60,000. Each student's goal is $75.
The student-led fundraiser begins Monday, Aug. 29 and ends Oct. 4 with a walk to St. Ann’s as a school, as well as praying the Rosary. Collections are every Monday and Thursday - from Sept. 1 through Oct. 4. Sponsorship opportunities also are available at https://community.grwestcatholic.org/all-as-walk-2022. Or call 616-233-5900.
All A's stands for: Academics, Arts, Acceptance, Achievement, Apostles and Athletics.
This Podcast was recorded Monday, Aug. 29, 2022.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our President and CEO-Designate is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
On this special "West Catholic Live" podcast, content strategist John Gonzalez talks to A.D. Megan Pittman and senior Emma Chrystan about Friday's West Catholic vs. Edwardsburg football game (Aug. 26) at Hope College. Kick off is at 7 p.m. at Ray and Sue Smith Stadium.
Here are some things you need to know:
Parking begins at 4:30 p.m. Hope College practices will be ending at that time, and the parking spaces will be needed.
Gate admission is $5. Cash only. Students should use their passes. Golden age, OK conference and Wolverine conference passes also will be accepted. (Cash and credit/debit cards will be accepted at concession stands.)
Special parking areas are designated. See maps attached to Social Media posts.
Since this is a HOME game for West Catholic, VIP parking passes will also be accepted.
VIP Parking is in the tennis parking lots, just north and east of the football stadium. The stadium is located at 313 Fairbanks Avenue, Holland, MI 49423-3736.
If you can't attend the game, check out Tom Mikowski and Joe Sack, who begin their 13th season of broadcasting WC games for Michigan Sports Radio. Go to www.michigansportsradio.com or download the app.
This podcast was recorded Thursday, Aug. 25, 2022 in the West Catholic HS Production Studios.
West Catholic Live airs Wednesdays on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our President and CEO-Designate is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Principal Tony Fischer and content strategist John Gonzalez co-host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School.
Season 2, Episode 2 features:
A construction update about the new tennis courts and sports bleachers.
Details about the new daycare center for employees.
More info about football coach Landon Grove's new podcast.
An introduction of our new co-chaplain David Sacha.
And appearances by President/CEO Cynthia Kneibel and associate athletic director Cam Burns.
This show aired on Wednesday, Aug. 24, 2022.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our President and CEO-Designate is Jill Annable. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
On this special Summer 2022 Podcast of West Catholic Live, President & CEO Cynthia Kneibel interviews Jan Beerthuis of Rockford Construction, who is the project manager to oversee the improvement of athletic facilities. This fall West Catholic will get 8 competition tennis courts, as well as new stands and press boxes for softball and baseball and new bleachers for Falcon Stadium.
More back to school info at https://www.grwestcatholic.org/back-school-information.
This interview aired Aug. 17, 2022.
Want to reach out to us? Email communications@grwestcatholic.org.
West Catholic Live will return Wednesday, Aug. 24. You can see the show live on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
On this special Summer 2022 Podcast of West Catholic Live, content strategist John Gonzalez gets an update from Principal Tony Fischer about all the activity & projects on campus at West Catholic High School.
These projects are to upgrade and improve our athletic facilities and include everything from new stands and press boxes to the addition of our eight new competition-grade tennis courts.
They also talk about tonight's (Aug. 12) Football Kickoff Event for parents in the MAK, as well as next week's Back-to-School BBQ on Aug. 19.
They also talk about the High School Band program, which features its jazz band at 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 13, at Walk the Beat in Grand Haven. (More info at https://www.walkthebeat.org/.) And the band's annual Cookie Event at 7:30 p.m. Aug. 17 to tease the upcoming halftime show for band parents.
Mr. Fischer also talks about new security measures at school when classes begin Aug. 23.
Learn more at https://www.grwestcatholic.org/back-school-information.
This show was recorded Friday, Aug. 12, 2022.
Want to reach out to us? Email communications@grwestcatholic.org.
West Catholic Live will return Wednesday, Aug. 17. You can see the show live on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
On this special Summer 2022 Podcast of West Catholic Live, content strategist John Gonzalez talks to Principal Tony Fischer and CEO/President Cynthia Kneibel about all the activity & projects on campus at West Catholic High School.
These projects are to upgrade and improve our athletic facilities and include everything from new stands and press boxes to the addition of our eight new competition-grade tennis courts.
This show was recorded Monday, July 25, 2022.
Want to reach out to us? Email communications@grwestcatholic.org.
West Catholic Live will return Wednesday, Aug. 17. You can see the show live on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
In this West Catholic Live Podcast, co-chaplain Father Robert Mulderink delivers a special "Teaching Mass" to students at West Catholic High School.
Recorded on March 22, 2022, Father Robert breaks down the Mass into three parts, and challenges students to learn why we as Catholics do the things we do during the Mass. He says there are "many things that are happening, and often times you don't understand them." He compares Mass to a foreign language. He adds that it's also a language of "postures, of gestures, of places and even of garments."
Fr. Robert's last day with the students was May 31. He was appointed administrator of St. Luke University Parish in Allendale.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday during the school year on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Want to reach out to us? Email communications@grwestcatholic.org.
Principal Tony Fischer and content strategist John Gonzalez co-host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School.
This week they recap Season 1 of West Catholic Live with some of the year's regulars, including junior "Rainy" Renee St. Andre, who provided weekly weather updates, as well as Associate Athletic Director Cam Burns and President/CEO Cynthia Kneibel.
This show aired on Wednesday, June 1, 2022.
West Catholic Live will return Wednesday, Aug. 24. You can see the show live on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Look for updates and more content on the school's Social Media channels.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Want to reach out to us? Email communications@grwestcatholic.org.
Principal Tony Fischer and content strategist John Gonzalez co-host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School.
This week they feature the Summer Camps taking place on campus this summer, including everything from soccer, basketball and football to e-Sports, band and fine arts.
This show aired on Wednesday, May 25, 2022.
Guests:
Strength and Conditioning Camp Coach Adam Stoyanoff with student Gabe Schwieters.
Football coach Landon Grove and student Andrew McAlary.
And Fine Arts Camp teacher/coordinator Lisa Nawrocki with student Aniah Tan.
Learn more and register for summer camps at https://www.grwestcatholicprograms.org/index.cfm.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Want to reach out to us? Email communications@grwestcatholic.org.
On this episode of West Catholic Live - The Monday Podcast - Principal Tony Fischer and content strategist John Gonzalez run down a busy and very successful sports weekend for West Catholic Sports.
And they talk about plans for today's Honors Assembly (May 23) and Tuesday's Graduation (May 24).
Both will be streamed on West Catholic's Facebook and YouTube channels. The Honors Assembly at 12:30 today and Graduation at 6:45 p.m. Tuesday.
From Athletic Director Megan Pittman:
MHSAA Track and Field Regionals
The following all qualified for the MHSAA State meet on June 4 at Kent City:
Girls
Ally Olszewski - Pole Vault (1), 4x200 relay
Lexi Patterson - High Jump (1), 4x200 relay
Aislynn Sweedyk - 4x200 relay
Claire Arends - 4x200 relay
Maggie Duba - 1600 run, 4x800 relay (2)
Lainey Roth - 4x800 relay (2)
Anna Richmond - 4x800 relay (2)
Amelia Snelling - 4x800 relay (2)
Grace Nyholt - Discus (2)
Boys
Michael Morris - High Jump (1)
Kyle Kloska - Shot Put (2), Discus
Girls Regional Tennis
Our girls tennis team is state bound. It was a total team effort qualifying for states with 18 total points! 1D (Reagan Nauta and Lauren Tietz), 2D (Hannah Nelson and Brooke Tietz) and 4D (Karlie Kurlenda and Liv Mott) are all regional champs.
Boys Golf plays in the OK Blue Conference Invitational on Monday, May 23. Best of luck to Sam Myers, Cameron Stong, Connor Penn, Joe Murphy, Zach Parzych and Josh Tomaszewski.
Baseball
Played Sparta on Friday (May 20) and went 1-1 . The team won 5-4 then lost 11-8.
Against Montague on Saturday (May 21), the team went 2-0. WC won 8-4 and 15-3
*Ryar Rinehart had 4 HR in 4 games!
This podcast was recorded on Monday, May 16, 2022.
Tune in to this week's West Catholic Live at 3 p.m. Wednesday on FB Live and YouTube.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Principal Tony Fischer and content strategist John Gonzalez co-host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School.
This week they feature two more athletes who take on assistant sports director Cam Burns on "Cam's 3-Point Challenge." Watch MSU-bound Abbey Kimball and Matt Morris who's going to Calvin College take on Cam.
Also, football coach Landon Grove stops by to give us a sports update.
Rainy Renee St. Andre offers her weekly weather update.
And President & CEO Cynthia Kneibel visits to offer prayers for the community, including the Radlinski Family and others in our school who are in need of our support. Radio talk show host Bill "Huge" Simonson also makes a cameo appearance.
This show aired on Wednesday, May 18, 2022.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Want to reach out to us? Email communications@grwestcatholic.org.
On this episode of West Catholic Live - The Monday Podcast - Principal Tony Fischer and content strategist John Gonzalez talk about upcoming Summer Camps, as well as prayers needed for the Radlinski family.
CAMP INFO: Registration for West Catholic's summer band, fine arts and sports camps is now open! Visit https://www.grwestcatholicprograms.org/index.cfm for more information on all of our opportunities or to sign your student up!
This podcast was recorded on Monday, May 16, 2022.
Tune in to this week's West Catholic Live at 3 p.m. Wednesday on FB Live and YouTube.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
In this special podcast for West Catholic Live, religion teacher Tim Horst and Father Robert Mulderink talk about crystals, astrology and superstitions, and what the church says about their influence in our lives. They address students in a focus hour at school.
This show was recorded Tuesday, May 10, 2022.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Want to reach out to us? Email communications@grwestcatholic.org.
On this special podcast for West Catholic Live, seniors Jacob North and Jonathan Jensen lead a discussion with fellow classmates Brady Patterson, Grace Morrison and Courtney Betten about their years at West Class High School. They reminisce about their favorite memories and also offer some advice for future students.
This episode was recorded on May 10, 2022.
Want more episodes? West Catholic Live airs at 3 p.m. Wednesdays on FB Live and YouTube.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Principal Tony Fischer and content strategist John Gonzalez co-host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School.
This week they check in with five seniors in the class of 2022 about their high school memories, and they listen to a conversation between religion teacher Tim Horst and Father Robert Mulderink about what the church says about crystals, astrology and superstitions.
Also, assistant athletic director Cam Burns introduces a new feature - Cam's Three Point Challenge.
This show aired on Wednesday, May 11, 2022.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Want to reach out to us? Email communications@grwestcatholic.org.
On this episode of West Catholic Live - The Monday Podcast - Principal Tony Fischer and content strategist John Gonzalez talk about Seniors Last Week, Friday's Falcon Cup and a special Mass on Friday, May 13.
They also preview Wednesday's West Catholic Live show, which looks at superstitions and the Catholic Church with guests Father Robert Mulderink and religion teacher Tim Horst.
Tune in to this week's West Catholic Live at 3 p.m. Wednesday on FB Live and YouTube.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Principal Tony Fischer and content strategist John Gonzalez co-host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School. This week they spotlight Teacher Appreciation Week.
This show aired on Wednesday, May 4, 2022.
Gonzo and Tony discuss their favorite teachers, and then welcome two former students, Cam Burns, who is the school's associate athletic director, and Natalie Scalabrino, who is the Director of Communications.
They show videos from teachers/staff members Emilee Lowell, Lisa Nawrocki, Jim Arsulowicz, Geri Wesorick, Joe Phelan, Phil Dolci and Tim Nawrocki, all former students who talk about their favorite teachers.
Cam delivers some sports highlights and does Cam’s Giveaway. Last week’s winner was Lana Conklin.
Tony and Gonzo then focus on the school's Rugby team, interviewing coach/teacher Todd Beaudoin, as well as players August Christensen and Josh Pease.
Junior Renee St. Andre givers her weather forecast, and a shout to her favorite teacher, Carolyn Hathaway.
Did You Know with Tony Fischer: He says that West Catholic offers 19 AP classes.
Spanish teacher Gloria Coste de Falk is interviewed by students Sophia Makarewicz and Santiago Meja about the meaning of Cinco de Mayo and why we celebrate the day in the U.S.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Want to reach out to us? Email communications@grwestcatholic.org.
On this episode of West Catholic Live - The Monday Podcast - Principal Tony Fischer and content strategist John Gonzalez talk about Prom 2022, Teacher Appreciation Week and what's in store this week at West Catholic High School.
They also bring in a special guest, technology teacher Angela Critchett, who ran the photo booth at prom, and also returned to school after the promo to put the finishing touches on the Yearbook.
And they say Happy Birthday to Miss Ouellette, an administrative assistant and West Catholic's Theatre Director.
Tune in to this week's West Catholic Live where we celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week even more. It airs at 3 p.m. Wednesday on FB Live and YouTube.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Principal Tony Fischer and content strategist John Gonzalez co-host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School. This week they focus on teachers and their kids, and Thursday's upcoming Take Your Daughters and Sons to Work Day (April 28).
This show aired on Wednesday, April 27, 2022.
They open the show with some recent news, including $300,000 raised at last week's They also mention Thursday's "Guide & Guard with Jason Evert," which is at 6:30 p.m. April 28 in the WC Cafetorium. For more information or to register, please visit grwestcatholic.org/speakerseries. Or listen to the recent Podcast.
Tony and Gonzo talk to teachers Molly Bergman and Chris Schaub about having their high school students in school with them. And they play video clips from teachers and their kids. The highlight is listening to the children of Athletic Director Megan Pittman sing the West Catholic Fight Song.
Also, listen for our Sport’s Update with assistant Athletic director Cam Burns. He said the baseball team had "big time win" on Tuesday, beating an undefeated Fruitport team, 13-4. Oh, and there is a Cam's Giveaway, too.
Other segments: Weather with junior Renee St. Andre, Tony's "Did You Know," and a clip from the Choir's recent trip to Chicago.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Want to reach out to us? Email communications@grwestcatholic.org.
Are you worried about guarding your teen’s innocence in today’s modern world? On this West Catholic Live Podcast, campus ministry director Phil Dolci and admissions director/faith boosters president Julie Wilmer interview author/speaker Jason Evert.
In the Podcast they talk about Evert's presentation, "Guard & Guide," which will help you with communication techniques, resources and a wealth of information to help your child lead a more pure life.
Join us at 6:30 p.m. on April 28 at West Catholic High School. Tickets are $6 in advance or at the door.
For more details go to grwestcatholic.org.
Learn more about Jason Evert and his ministry at https://chastity.com/. His Podcast is "Lust is Boring."
West Catholic Live is a show that airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Want to reach out to us? Email communications@grwestcatholic.org.
In this special West Catholic Live Podcast, principal Tony Fischer and content strategist John Gonzalez talk about many of the 43 auction items available to bid on at Celebrate West. Because of the pandemic, the popular auction has been a virtual event the last two years. But it's back in 2022 with some 480 supporters who will be on hand for raffles, games, auction items, food and drink.
West Catholic Live is a show that airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Want to reach out to us? Email communications@grwestcatholic.org.
Gonzo has gone north leaving Troy Dudas with Tony Fischer this week. Celebrate West and information about athletes participating in lacrosse this spring.
Assistant Athletic Director Cam Burns co-hosts this week's show with content strategist John Gonzalez. This show aired on Wednesday, April 13, 2022.
They open the show with Weekly Chatter items from our newsletter, followed by Cam's Giveaway.
The show Spotlight and Features:
Feature Spring Sports: We have 10 teams in action, including Baseball/Softball, Boy's Golf, Boy's and Girl's Lacrosse, Girl's Soccer, Girl's Tennis, Boy's and Girl's Track, and Esports.
ALSO: All family and friends of West Catholic Athletic Boosters are invited to participate in a special fundraising event on Thursday, April 21 at The Local Kitchen + Sports Lounge (4322 Remembrance Rd NW, Walker).
Spotlight - Enigma Robotics Team with Emma Emma Wittkoski and Violet Appel. The team is going the State Championship in Saginaw on April 13th-16th, as well as the FIRST Championship, April 20th -23rd in Houston, Texas.
Feature - Campus Ministry with director Phil Dolci.
-Lenten Tableau on Thursday during school.
-Easter Mass at Holy Spirit on April 19 at 10:15 a.m.
-Speaker Jason Evert on April 28.
Weather Update with Rainy Renee.
Freddy the Falcon April Fool's joke.
The Choir performs a segment from the upcoming Easter Mass.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Want to reach out to us? Email communications@grwestcatholic.org.
Holy Week Podcast: West Catholic High School Principal Tony Fischer and content strategist John Gonzalez are joined by campus ministry director Phil Dolci to talk about Holy Week activities.
This is Episode 13 of the Monday Podcast.
Tune in at 3 p.m. Wednesdays on FB Live and YouTube for our live show - West Catholic Live.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
President and CEO Cynthia Kneibel and athletic director Megan Pittman co-host a special Women's History Month show on West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School. This show aired on Wednesday, March 3o, 2022.
They open the show with Weekly Chatter items from our newsletter, followed by Cam's Giveaway.
The show Spotlight and Features:
Spotlight (3:53): Teacher Pat Nugent, our resident school historian, shares information about some of the most notable women in WC history, including Patti Tibaldi, Sister Charitas and Sister Miriam Therese.
Feature (10:18): Cynthia Kneibel interviews Sister Damien Marie on the campus of Aquinas College in Grand Rapids, where Sister has been the Dean of Science and Sustainability since 2016. She is also a school board member at West Catholic HS.
Feature (15:15): We learn more about West Catholic's Girl's Leadership Group from students Maggie Duba, Sujin Park and Aniah Tan.
Did You Know (18:37): Cindy Kneibel fills in for Tony Fischer's weekly Did You Know. She recounts how 40 nuns once lived in a Convent just north of campus from 1962 until about 9 years ago. They loved to have movie night with popcorn and talk about how to improve the lives of children. "They loved and adored you," Cindy said. "It was absolutely great."
Weather Forecast with Rainy Renee (20:42): Junior Renee St. Andre runs down the weather in some popular Spring Break destinations.
Show End (21:57): Cindy and Megan talk about their Spring Break plans.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Want to reach out to us? Email communications@grwestcatholic.org.
On this episode of West Catholic Live - The Monday Podcast - Principal Tony Fischer and content strategist John Gonzalez congratulate Maggie Duba, a senior, who received her MHSAA/Farm Bureau Insurance Scholar Athlete Award over the weekend. Maggie is going to the University of San Diego to run cross country. This spring at West Catholic she is running track and playing on the Girl's Lacrosse team.
Tony and John also discuss the beginning of Spring Sports and Spring Break, which is next week.
Tune in to a special edition of West Catholic Live when Cynthia Kneibel, who is President & CEO of West Catholic H.S., and athletic director Megan Pittman co-host the show. It airs at 3 p.m. Wednesday on FB Live and YouTube.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Principal Tony Fischer and content strategist John Gonzalez host West Catholic Live, a show about all the great things happening at West Catholic High School. This show aired on Wednesday, March 23, 2022.
They open the show with Weekly Chatter items from our newsletter, followed by Cam's Giveaway, a weekly feature with Cam Burns, the school's assistant athletic director.
The show Spotlight and Features:
Spotlight (7:29) - Students Dabin Lee and Noah Abram, as well as English Department chair Carolyn Hathaway, who were on the recent Kairos Retreat with Juniors and student leaders. They talk about how the retreat changed their lives. (John Gonzalez was also on the retreat.)
Feature (16:40) - Director of Campus Ministry Phil Dolci is joined by student Caleb Haskell. They talk a little more about the Kairos Retreat, and they share a video series that was produced by the student as we celebrate Reverence for the Eucharist Awareness Week.
Feature (26:46) - At Tuesday's school Mass, the students heard from co-Chaplin Robert Mulderink, who explained the order of Mass. On this portion of the show, Father Robert explains the mass a little more with Religion teacher Tim Horst.
(37:37) - Weather update with junior "Rainy" Renee St. Andre.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Want to reach out to us? Email communications@grwestcatholic.org.
Hosts Troy Dudas and Principal Tony Fischer share the latest West Catholic Chatter.
They are joined by Ryan Graham from KCTC along with students Lauren Ignatoski and Joey Murphy.
Megan Pittman joins to share information about summer camps available to children in the West community.
Freshman Sarah Goffer fills in for Rainy Renee on the weather.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Want to reach out to us? Email communications@grwestcatholic.org.
Women's basketball special podcast- Check out this podcast to hear from the women's basketball team captains, Abby Kimball, Cadence Dykstra, & Ellie Bie. We'll discuss their big quarterfinal win over Edwardsburg, how the team prepares for a game, what keeps them motivated, and what they know about their upcoming opponent.
The Falcons head to the Final Four for the first time in 27 years. The game will be Friday, March 18th at the Breslin Center. Tipoff is at 5:30pm. Tickets can be purchased at https://bit.ly/wcgbb
Be sure to join us on our next WC Live Facebook show, which is airs at 3 p.m. Wednesday, March 16. https://www.facebook.com/GRWestCatholic/
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
On this episode of West Catholic Live - The Monday Podcast, Principal Tony Fischer and science teacher/boy's assistant basketball coach Troy Dudas catch up on a busy weekend, including a Girl's Basketball Regional title and rave reviews for "All Shook Up."
They also recap many post-season accolades for both boy's and girl's basketball, as well as competitive cheer.
They look to the week ahead: Kairos retreat for Juniors, 5th grade visit (Thursday) and St. Patrick's Day for Households.
BIG GAME: The girl's team (23-1) plays in the MHSAA Quarterfinals against Edwardsburg (24-0) at 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 15 at Wayland High School. This is the first time the girl's program has been in the quarterfinals in 27 years. If you would like to purchase a ticket, you can do so here: https://gofan.co/app/events/554651?schoolId=MI10277
Be sure to join us on our next WC Live Facebook show, which is airs at 3 p.m. Wednesday, March 16. https://www.facebook.com/GRWestCatholic/
Photos: By Rick Kimball @ISDimagesRick on Twitter
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
On this Episode of West Catholic Live, Principal Tony Fischer and strategic content creator John Gonzalez talk about Girl's and Boy's basketball, and their successful seasons. The show includes an interview with each head coach and live interviews with players. They also do Cam's Giveaway; a special guest fills in on weather; and at the end of the show they share audio from "All Shook Up," the school's spring musical.
This show aired March 9, 2022.
Boy's Basketball: Players Kobe Kambestad, Caleb Tuttle and Noah Arsulowicz. Plus, Coach Kirk Kambestad.
Lent with seniors Henry Ripple and Lauren Tietz.
Girl's Basketball: Juniors Cadence Dykstra and Karlie Kurlenda. Plus, Coach Jill VanderEnde.
Weather Forecast: Administrative assistant Samantha Jacob fills in for "Rainy" Renee St. Andre, who is in "All Shook Up."
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Want to reach out to us? Email communications@grwestcatholic.org.
West Catholic High School Theater Director and administrative assistant Justina Ouellette sits down with content strategist John Gonzalez a few hours before opening the musical "All Shook Up." It's the first musical production in two years. She talks about the dedication of her cast, as well as the support of the school's music department led by band director Darren LaPrise.
Performances run March 9-12 at the Aquinas College Performing Arts Center. Get your tickets today at bit.ly/WCAllShookUp.
About the show: The music of Elvis comes alive in All Shook Up! Inspired by Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, All Shook Up follows a small Midwestern town that is thrown into a frenzy with the arrival of Chad, a good-looking, motorcycle-riding roustabout, who rides from town to town with a guitar on his back, blue suede shoes on his feet and a song in his heart. Lovers meet, woo, pursue and more, all in one zany night that will change the town forever. All Shook Up is a rocking, heartwarming tale about following dreams, opening up to love and discovering the power of music.
Be sure to join us on our next WC Live Facebook show, which is airs at 3 p.m. Wednesday, March 9. We will put a spotlight on the boy's and girl's basketball teams. https://www.facebook.com/GRWestCatholic/
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
On this episode of West Catholic Live - The Monday Podcast, Principal Tony Fischer and strategic content creator John Gonzalez catch up on a busy sports weekend.
The wrestling team did well at Ford Field. Cole Karasinski took 3rd in his weight class and Thomas Zielinski took 6th in his weight class. Aniah Tan finished 8th place in the first-year girls tournament.
The girls basketball team won Friday night (March 4) against Catholic Central, making them district champs. The team plays in the first round of regionals at 7 p.m. Tuesday vs. GR Christian at Muskegon Orchard View.
The boys basketball team hosts districts at 5 p.m. Monday (March 7) against Wyoming Lee H.S.
Bowling: Kayla VanLinden, who finished with All Conference honors last week, competed in the state tournament in Jackson. She did well, but just missed making it to the Top 16.
Robotics: Our team participated in a 34-team event this weekend at Calvin University. It placed 3rd in the qualification matches and was selected to participate in the No. 1 alliance for the elimination matches, which it won. The team was recognized for having the best autonomous control routine at the event. The team competes March 18 and 19 at Orchard View High School in Muskegon. Then it heads to the State Tournament, April 13-16 in Saginaw. The National Championships begin April 20 in Houston.
Coming up this week:
The musical "All Shook Up" opens Wednesday at the Aquinas College Performing Arts Center. The show runs March 9-12. Tickets can be purchased at https://circletheatre.vbotickets.com/event/West_Catholic_Theatre_Presents_ALL_SHOOK_UP/68323
Also, the Blood Drive is from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesday (March 9). Donors receive a BOGO entree from Noodles and Company. Use this link to sign up: https://donate.michigan.versiti.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/147877
Parent Teacher Conferences are Thursday.
And there is no school for students on Friday (March 11).
Be sure to join us on our next WC Live Facebook show, which is airs at 3 p.m. Wednesday, March 9. We focus on the boys and girls basketball teams. https://www.facebook.com/GRWestCatholic/
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
On this Episode of West Catholic Live, Principal Tony Fischer and strategic content creator John Gonzalez interview students about Fine Arts Week, check in with our wrestlers headed to the state tournament at Ford Field, and preview next week's "All Shook Up" musical. This show aired March 2, 2022.
Fine Arts Students: Isabella Schaub (choir/musical), Matt Barszewski (band/musical) and Rose Pulte (art).
Wrestlers: Jessica Martinez, Cole Karasinski, Aniah Tan and Thomas Zielinski.
Weather Forecast: "Rainy" Renee St. Andre, who is also the lead in "All Shook Up."
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Want to reach out to us? Email communications@grwestcatholic.org.
On this special West Catholic Live Podcast, Principal Tony Fischer and John Gonzalez congratulate Kayla VanLinden, who placed 1st this weekend at the MHSAA Division 3 Regional Tournament. She moves onto the State Tournament March 4-5 in Jackson.
On this episode of West Catholic Live - The Monday Podcast, Principal Tony Fischer and strategic content creator John Gonzalez talk about the week ahead, including Fine Arts Week, and they recap sports activities. They also remind the West Catholic Community that Mass this week is Wednesday, in celebration of Ash Wednesday. The community invited for Mass at 10:20 a.m.
Be sure to learn more about Fine Arts Week on our next WC Live Facebook show, which is airs this week on Thursday, Feb. 24. https://www.facebook.com/GRWestCatholic/
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
On this Episode of West Catholic Live, Principal Tony Fischer and strategic content creator John Gonzalez interview new head football coach Landon Grove. This show aired Feb. 24.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Want to reach out to us? Email communications@grwestcatholic.org.
On this episode of West Catholic Live - The Monday Podcast, Principal Tony Fischer and strategic content creator John Gonzalez catch up on a busy sports weekend.
The boys basketball team won last-second thrillers on Friday and Saturday nights, and the girls team stayed undefeated in conference play.
Competitive Cheer: The team finished 9th in Division 1 districts at West Ottawa. Their season is done, but we are proud of the girls for the season they had with co-op with Coopersville and finishing first in OK Blue conference for the first time since 1996.
Bowling: The team had their conference tournament and Noah Domeier and Kayla VanLinden finished with All Conference honors.
Boys Regional Wrestling: Cole Karasinski took 2nd in his weight class and Thomas Zielinski took 3rd in his weight class. Both will wrestle at the state tournament on March 4-5.
Girls Regional Wrestling: Jessica Martinez and Aniah Tan finished 2nd and 5th, respectively, and qualified for the girls state tournament on March 4-5 at Ford Field.
And the weight room was busy at 8 a.m. this morning as new head football coach Landon Grove started his first day on the job, weightlifting with those players who were not out of town for Mid Winter Break.
Be sure to meet the new coach on our next WC Live Facebook show, which is airs this week on Thursday, Feb. 24. https://www.facebook.com/GRWestCatholic/
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
On this Episode of West Catholic Live, Principal Tony Fischer and strategic content creator John Gonzalez meet the Quiz Bowl team, learn about a Pilgrimage to the Holy Site of Italy and run down the admission process for incoming freshmen. Oh, and the show ends with a weather forecast from "Rainy" Renee St. Andre. This show aired Feb. 16.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Want to reach out to us? Email communications@grwestcatholic.org.
On this episode of West Catholic Live, John Gonzalez gets an update on a Snack Food Drive for our healthcare heroes, and he congratulates Sean Nolan, who is now officially Dean of Students at West Catholic High School.
Also, listen closely for a cameo from "Rainy" Renee St. Andre, West Catholic's meteorologist in training. Does she predict at Snow Day in a loud sneeze just as the bell rings?
Be sure to catch Rainy Renee's weather update on our next WC Live Facebook show, which is Wednesday, Feb. 16. https://www.facebook.com/GRWestCatholic/
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Dean of Students Sean Nolan wants to make sure students know that West Catholic is having a Snack Drive as part of our participation in Operation Joy with Mercy Health.
"Many of the nurses on the floors in hospitals right now are not able to take a break to eat a meal. So, volunteers bring snacks for them to eat while they move from room to room," he said.
Students are asked to bring snacks on Tuesday, February 15th. All snacks must be individually packaged.
Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
On this Snow Day Podcast, Principal Tony Fischer and content strategist John Gonzalez talk about today's Snow Day with junior Renee St. Andre, who is our meteorologist in training as "Rainy Renee." Did she predict today's Snow Day for the West Catholic students?
They also check in with Dean of Students Sean Nolan about the Tuesday, Feb. 15 Snack Drive as part of Operation Joy.
And they talk to assistant athletic director Cam Burns, who updates us on how the sports teams are being impacted by today's Snow Day.
West Catholic Live airs on Mondays as a Podcast, as well as every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Want to reach out to us? Email communications@grwestcatholic.org.
Principal Tony Fischer and strategic content creator John Gonzalez talk to West Catholic bowling coach Dave Berry, a first-year coach with goals of establishing a program that fits the school’s sports traditions. Currently there are 8 students on the boys team, and 5 on the girls team. There are no seniors on the team. He talks about the team’s development, as well as the top players with potential to do well in regionals.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Want to reach out to us? Email communications@grwestcatholic.org.
On this Episode of West Catholic Live, Principal Tony Fischer is joined by assistant athletic director Cam Burns, who serves as co-host.
The have Dean of Students Sean Nolan talk about St. Josephine Bakhita, as well as our Households program. Also, they feature the West Catholic Bowling teams. (This show was recorded Feb. 9.)
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Want to reach out to us? Email communications@grwestcatholic.org.
On this episode of West Catholic Live, John Gonzalez and Principal Tony Fischer recap weekend events and, and look ahead to St. Josephine Bakhita's Feast Day on Tuesday and a Households Ping Pong competition.
Our next WC Live Facebook show is Wednesday, Feb. 9. https://www.facebook.com/GRWestCatholic/
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
On this Episode of West Catholic Live, we meet our Commended Scholars, join All Saints Academy principal and West Catholic alum, who brings his Principal for the Day to school to pass out some detentions and also recap Operation Joy. We also have Maggie Duba, who just signed her official letter of intent to run Cross County and Track at the University of San Diego, filling in to do Cam's Giveaway. (This show was recorded Feb. 2.)
Principal Tony Fischer and content strategist John Gonzalez are the show's co-hosts. Our executive producers are Jeff Bailey of the Technology team and communications director Natalie Scalabrino.
Show Notes
Cam’s Giveaway (2:54):
Senior Maggie Duba fills in for assistant athletic director Cam Burns. If you want to win the prize, comment on Facebook or email communications@grwestcatholic.org.
Weekly Chatter (4:36):
News and information from our Weekly Chatter Newsletter. If you want to subscribe to it, go to https://www.grwestcatholic.org/newsletter/archives.
Operation Joy with Sean Nolan (7:32):
Dean of Students Sean Nolan and Strategic Content Creator John Gonzalez interview Sarah Loveland, an ICU Nurse at Mercy Health St. Mary's. They talk about "Operation Joy," a letter-writing campaign as part of Catholic Schools Week with the students of West Catholic High School and other partner schools. Students are writing letters of gratitude and encouragement to the health care workers as part of a service project. In this interview, Loveland talks about her job of working in ICU, as well the "fatigue" that has set in dealing with COVID-19. She thanks everyone for the words of encouragement, which she said "boosts morale."
Joe Gietzen and Principal for the Day (13:59)
We meet ASA's principal for the day, 4th grader Andrew Mitchell.
Commended Scholars (17:55)
Congratulations to Jacob Droski, Caitlin Smith and Jonathan Jensen, our three National Merit Commended Scholars. We talk to Jacob and Jonathan on this segment.
Forecast with "Rainy Renee" (26:49):
Junior Renee St. Andre is our resident weather person. Listen to her weekend forecast.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Want to reach out to us? Email communications@grwestcatholic.org.
On this "West Catholic Live" podcast, Dean of Students Sean Nolan and Strategic Content Creator John Gonzalez interview Sarah Loveland, an ICU Nurse at Mercy Health St. Mary's. They talk about "Operation Joy," a letter-writing campaign as part of Catholic Schools Week with the students of West Catholic High School and other partner schools. Students are writing letters of gratitude and encouragement to the health care workers as part of a service project. In this interview, Loveland talks about her job of working in ICU, as well the "fatigue" that has set in dealing with COVID-19. She thanks everyone for the words of encouragement, which she said "boosts morale."
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. It airs on Wednesday. https://www.facebook.com/GRWestCatholic/
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
On this episode of West Catholic Live, John Gonzalez and Principal Tony Fischer recap some weekend sporting events, as well as the Shake Your Tail Feathers fundraiser for the band program.
They also discuss the plans for Catholic Schools, which includes Mass with the Bishop on Wednesday (Feb. 2). The public is invited. Mass is at 10:15 a.m.
Our next WC Live Facebook show is Wednesday, Feb. 2. https://www.facebook.com/GRWestCatholic/
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
On this Episode of West Catholic Live, we learn about this weekend's "Shake Your Tail Feathers" fundraiser for the Band Boosters. We meet some of the Argentina students. Introduce a new segment and check in with Dean of Students Sean Nolan about Households. We also welcome back Cam Burns for his weekly giveaway. (This show was recorded Jan. 26.)
CEO/President Cynthia Kneibel and content strategist John Gonzalez are the show's co-hosts. Executive producers Jeff Bailey of the Technology team and communications director Natalie Scalabrino.
Show Notes
Cam’s Giveaway (1:55):
Assistant Athletic Director Cam Burns shows off a new hat for fans. If you want to win the prize, comment on Facebook or email communications@grwestcatholic.org.
Weekly Chatter (4:46):
News and information from our Weekly Chatter Newsletter. If you want to subscribe to it, go to https://www.grwestcatholic.org/newsletter/archives.
On this segment:
We talk about Catholic Schools Week, which is next week (Jan. 31-Feb.4).
Mass with the Bishop is Wednesday where we recognize continuous Adoration during school hours for 30 years, even through Covid. The community is invited tp mass at 10:20 a.m. Feb. 2.
Argentina Students (6:14):
We put a spotlight on the 15 students and their chaperone, who are spending time with local families, going to classes and learning about American culture. And Michigan's cold winter weather. It's summer time right now in Buenos Aires. Listen to them talk about bowling, eating pizza and going to a Grand Rapids Gold basketball game.
"Shake Your Tail Feathers" (16:40):
Band Director Darren LaPrise and several students thank the community for supporting the band and this weekend's "Shake Your Tail Feathers" fundraiser. Presented by the Falcon Band Boosters, the annual event is Saturday, Jan. 29. The them is "Summer Breeze." Performing is Sudz & Vaporz band, which features Band Director Darren's brothers. Check on ticket availability at grssc.ejoinme.org/SYTF22.
Did You Know (18:55):
Some think there are spirits in the school. Cindy talks about an encounter she had eight years ago with a person she met in the office - after hours. Cindy darted out of the building when the person, without a face, tried to put her arm around her. She mentioned this to the cleaning crew a few days later who had also seen the same person. Physics teacher Tim Nawrocki said it was not a ghost, rather a refraction of light from the street that could give the impression of a white spirit.
Sean Nolan on Households (21:26):
Dean of students Sean Nolan talks to John about the school's Household system, which is tasked with relational development among students and staff through a persistent experience of Christian community. He said the pillars of the program focus particularly on excellence in Prayer, Presence and Persistent Growth. Learn more at https://www.grwestcatholic.org/households
Weather Forecast with "Rainy Renee" (26:49):
Junior Renee St. Andre makes her West Catholic Live debut as our resident weather person. Listen to her weekend forecast.
Sudz & Vaporz (28:20)
Listen to a clip of the band Sudz & Vaporz, the band performing at Saturday's SYTF event.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Want to reach out to us? Email communications@grwestcatholic.org.
On this episode of West Catholic Live, John Gonzalez and Sean Nolan (Dean of Students) talk about the start of a new semester, and they recap this weekend's competitive cheer invitational at WC with student Abbie Smith.
Also, Mr. Nolan teaches John a few words in Latin.
Our next WC Live Facebook show is Wednesday, Jan. 26. https://www.facebook.com/GRWestCatholic/
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
On this "West Catholic Live" Podcast, communications director Natalie Scalabrino (2012 graduate of WCHS), interviews one of her favorite teachers, Pat Nugent, who has been part of the group Students For Life since he first started teaching at West Catholic 29 years ago.
Annually this group attends the March for Life event in Washington D.C. This year they leave on Jan. 20. The march is Friday, Jan. 21. The bus includes 47 students, two teachers and three chaperones.
"It really inspires the students at West to realize that this is something bigger than West Catholic...This is a national statement that can be made and that has an impact nationwide and worldwide."
This podcast is part of the WC Live show that aired on Jan. 19, 2022.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Want to reach out to us? Email communications@grwestcatholic.org.
On this "West Catholic Live" Podcast, John Gonzalez and WC principal Tony Fischer put a spotlight on the collaboration production of "Macbeth," presented by students at West Catholic and Catholic Central. (This podcast is part of the WC Live show that aired on Jan. 19, 2022.)
Led by Bob Rose for more than two decades, John interviews him about how the collaboration started, and why.
"I started this project twenty one years ago because I saw that there were few opportunities for kids from West to get to know the kids at Catholic Central except on the athletic fields which sets them against each other," he said. "The major goal of the program is to encourage a cooperative, constructive activity of which the students can (be proud of) and to form friendships between students from both schools." He believes those goals have been achieved, he said on the Podcast.
John also talks to three of the eight WC students who are part of the 21-member cast and crew. He talks to Caleb Huizenga (Macbeth), Mike Goffer (Macduff) and Meagan Johnson (Stage Manager).
Performances are Jan. 19-22 at Aquinas College's Performing Arts Center. Get tickets at the PAC box office or online at circletheatre.org/catholic-secondary-schools.
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Want to reach out to us? Email communications@grwestcatholic.org.
On this Episode of West Catholic Live, we learn about this weekend's production of "Macbeth," the March for Life in Washington D.C., and some upcoming events at West Catholic High School. We also welcome back Cam Burns for his weekly giveaway. (This show was recorded Jan. 19.)
Principal Tony Fischer and content strategist John Gonzalez are the show's co-hosts. Executive producers are Tom Kutzli and Jeff Bailey of the Technology team, and communications director Natalie Scalabrino.
Show Notes
Cam’s Giveaway (1:41):
Assistant Athletic Director Cam Burns brings in senior Henry Ripple to help him with this week's giveaway.
Weekly Chatter (4:40):
News and information from our Weekly Chatter Newsletter. If you want to subscribe to it, go to https://www.grwestcatholic.org/newsletter/archives.
On this segment:
Exams Week wrap up om Friday.
Registration for the 2022 Celebrate West! Auction is now open. The event is Friday, April 22, 2022, at the high school. Tickets are $60 and includes an auction, raffles, catering by Billy K, and much more! Visit grssc.ejoinme.org/celebratewest2022 to get your tickets and also find info about sponsorship.
*"Shake Your Tail Feathers," the Falcon Band Boosters annual event, is Jan. 29. The annual dinner-dance fundraiser is themed as a "Summer Breeze." Get your tickets now at grssc.ejoinme.org/SYTF22.
"Macbeth" (6:24):
We put a spotlight on the collaboration production of "Macbeth," presented by students at West Catholic and Catholic Central. Led by Bob Rose for more than two decades, John interviews him about how the collaboration started, and why. John also talks to three of the eight WC students who are part of the 21-member cast and crew. He talks to Caleb Huizenga (Macbeth), Mike Goffer (Macduff) and Meagan Johnson (Stage Manager). Performances are Jan. 19-22 at Aquinas College's Performing Arts Center. Get tickets at the PAC box office or online at circletheatre.org/catholic-secondary-schools.
Did You Know (20:00);
Every week on WC Live, Mr. Fischer loves to share some information or tidbits about the West Catholic community. This week he talks about St. John Paul II, who is the patron of West Catholic. "Did you know that when he was younger Karol participated in underground theater and enjoyed soccer and skiing. We often celebrate his feast week with a game of bubble soccer with our students." Also, he said St. John Paul also started World Youth Day when he was Pope. And interestingly, a WC alum was at the airport to welcome Pope John Paul when he arrived for World Youth Day in Denver, CO back in the '90s.
March for Life (22:10):
Communications Director Natalie Scalabrino (2012 graduate of WCHS), interviews one of her favorite teachers, Pat Nugent, who has been part of the group Students For Life since he first started teaching at West Catholic 29 years ago. Annually this group attends the March for Life event in Washington D.C. This year they leave on Jan. 20. The march is Friday, Jan. 21. The bus includes 47 students, two teachers and three chaperones. "It really inspires the students at West to realize that this is something bigger than West Catholic...This is a national statement that can be made and that has an impact nationwide and worldwide."
West Catholic Live airs every Wednesday on West Catholic's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
Want to reach out to us? Email communications@grwestcatholic.org.
On this episode of West Catholic Live, John Gonzalez and principal Tony Fischer talk about the importance of MLD Day, and resources available on the GR Catholic Diocese website at bit.ly/3A8J15t or https://grdiocese.org/remembering-the-life-and-legacy-of-dr-king/?fbclid=IwAR3D9aXenRrmh_pAq4aVExwUZesvZC6gTrndZ2tEtwbcNYWT7_i6SGLmzno.
They also recap the weekend of sporting events, including two wins for our Ice Hockey Team, wins for our Varsity Boys and Girls basketball teams, and the Wall of Fame induction ceremonies honoring the 1984 Girls Gymnastics and 1990 Girls Basketball state championship teams (on Friday, Jan. 14).
They also look ahead to Exams Week (Jan. 18-21), and student involvement in the annual March for Life. A bus load of students and chaperones leaves on Thursday, Jan. 20, to attend the Washington D.C. event.
As for Exams:
Tuesday, January 18 - 1st Hour Exam 9-10:15 a.m.; 2nd Hour Exam 10:30-11:45 a.m.
Wednesday, January 19 - 3rd Hour Exam 9-10:15 a.m.; 4th Hour Exam 10:30-11:45 a.m.
Thursday, January 20 - 5th Hour Exam 9-10:15 a.m.; 6th Hour Exam 10:30-11:45 a.m.
Friday, January 21 - 7th Hour Exam 9-10:15 a.m.; Make Up Exam 10:30 a.m.
Our next WC Live Facebook show is Wednesday, Jan. 19. https://www.facebook.com/GRWestCatholic/
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer.
Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
On this Episode of West Catholic Live, we learn more about our coop hockey team, the band's annual Christmas concert and the Robotic program, and we also welcome back Cam Burns for his weekly giveaway. (This show was recorded Jan. 12.)
Show Notes
Principal Tony Fischer and content strategist John Gonzalez are the show's co-hosts.
Show Notes
2:31: Mr. Fischer and Gonzo run down some news items, including:
-Wall of Fame - On Friday, January 14, during halftime of the girls varsity basketball game at 7:30 p.m., we will be inducting two teams into the West Catholic Wall of Fame! We honor the 1984 Girls Gymnastics and 1990 Girls Basketball state championship teams. There will be a celebratory reception in the MAK following the game. All are invited to attend.
-Come celebrate and support the band at Shake Your Tail Feathers, Summer Breeze. This is a 21+ fundraising event with amazing food, live band, dancing, raffles and fun! All for a wonderful cause.
Saturday, January 29th 6-11pm. www.ejoinme.org/SYTF22 to RSVP
-Macbeth, Jan. 19-22, at Aquinas College's Performing Arts Center. This is the 21st Combined Cast production of a Shakespeare play over the last 20 years with students from West Catholic and Catholic Central High Schools. "The major goal of the program is to encourage a cooperative, constructive activity of which the students … form friendships,” said director Bob Rose.
6:27: John and Tony talk to Ice Hockey Coach Shawn Zimmerman and players Bryce Darrow, Colin Wildman, Nolan Rinehart and Danny Groszkiewicz while in Dallas on winter trip and mission.
13:20: We check in with the Robotics team coach/sponsor Cindy Czarniecki-Brown and mentor/WC alum Zach Zakfeld.
20:45: Principal Tony Fischer talks to Band Director Darren LaPrise about the band's annual Christmas concert. He also brought along some students, including Enzo Anglewood (trumpet, section leader), Courtney Betton (flute, color guard, secretary of the band), Grace Morrison (flute section leader) and Brady Patterson (trombone, Band President).
27:50: Cam's Giveaway.
32:10: Mr. Fischer's Did You Know Segment. He said:
"West Catholic is the home to 10 pieces of beautiful art created by Russian artist, Yuri Kuchukov. The pieces were removed from a decommissioned church in New York and purchased by a local community member and philanthropist who then asked to have them displayed in the halls of West Catholic. The art is found in the hallways, gymnasium, and cafeteria and are all inspired by stories in the Bible, including the crucifixion of Jesus, the burning bush, among others. If you are visiting, please make sure you check out the beautiful pieces."
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
On this episode of West Catholic Live, John Gonzalez and principal Tony Fischer recap the weekend in sports, including some impressive accomplishments for our boys and girls wrestling programs, and they look ahead to other events this week. At the end of the Podcast, director of campus ministry Phil Dolci leads the school in the Monday prayer.
On this "West Catholic Live" Podcast, John Gonzalez and Principal Tony Fischer are joined by West Catholic President and CEO Cynthia Kneibel about the arrival of 15 students from Argentina who will spend the next 4 1/2 weeks with us. Cindy talks about what they will be doing, and how the West Catholic community is excited to receive them. "I'm told a lot of them have never seen snow," she said. Well, they arrive at a perfect time for that!
As for school, Mr. Fischer said West Catholic is doing classes "remotely" today (Thursday, Jan. 6) and will likely do the same on Friday if there is another Snow Day.
Also on the Podcast, Mr. Fischer talks about how this weekend's sporting events have been impacted by the weather. Also, he notes that the annual Christmas band concert has been moved to Thursday, Jan. 13.
Listen to get all the details.
Learn more about all these changes at https://www.grwestcatholic.org/ or on the school's Facebook pages.
On Episode 1 of the Monday Podcast, John Gonzalez and Principal Tony Fischer of West Catholic High School talk about some of the week's highlights, including the band's Christmas Concert (Jan. 6), the arrival of 15 students from Argentina, the return of our Live Show at 3 p.m. Wednesday (on the school's Facebook page) and the return of dinner as part of Michigan's Might Meals program where students get FREE breakfast and lunch, too. Learn more about the program at https://www.grwestcatholic.org/michigans-mighty-meals. And make sure to check us out on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at @GRWestCatholic.
Today's prayer was led by Phil Dolci, the school's director of Campus Ministry and teacher.
In this special edition of West Catholic Live, we travel to St. Patrick Parish in Parnell to enjoy West Catholic Choir perform its "The Sights and Sounds of Christmas" show. Under the direction of choir director Joe Houdek, the choir performed classics such as "Carol of the Bells," as well as other selections. Here is the show in its entirety. The concert was Dec. 16, 2021. On behalf of the West Catholic School community, as well as the crew of West Catholic Live, we wish you all a very Merry Christmas. Learn more about West Catholic at https://www.grwestcatholic.org/.
On this Episode of West Catholic Live, we celebrate our Choir Program, which performed a brief holiday program for the students on Dec. 13, and later a full Christmas show at St. Patrick Parish in Parnell. Co-hosts John Gonzalez and Tony Fischer interview students as well as teachers, and they also bring back assistant athletic director Cam Burns for another Cam's Giveaway.
Show Notes
4:20: Cam Burns also talks winter sports over the Christmas break.
8:23: Principal Tony Fischer and John Gonzalez talk to Choir Director Joe Houdek and two students, Courtney Betten and Michael Goffer.
12:02: Longtime art teacher and department head Lisa Nawrocki talks about a recent project at the Walker Post Office, and she brings by three of her talented students (Rachel Bangma, Rose Pulte and Lizzie Broekema) who are also in Art Club.
19:00: Tony Fischer brings back his weekly "Did You Know" segment. He talks about a recent Reconciliation event where West Catholic brought in nearly 20 priests to hear confessions, and he also mentions the priestly discernment club. He said there are currently four WC alums in the seminary: David Sacha (St. Alphonsus), Hunter Ostapowicz and Thomas Curry (Basilica of St. Adalbert), and Patrick Truskowski (Cathedral of St. Andrew). He asks to "please keep them in your prayers."
21:05: Hear the Choir perform "Carol of the Bells."
23:20: Hear the Choir perform "Sing Noel."
26:30: Hear the Choir perform "We Wish You a Merry Christmas."
West Catholic Live is a production of West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our President and CEO is Cynthia Kneibel. Our Principal is Tony Fischer. Our Mission: To form Disciples of Christ through a dynamic, excellence-driven Catholic Education. Learn more at grwestcatholic.org.
On this special recap of the Dec. 6 West Catholic Live show, we put a spotlight on the Esports program. Last weekend (Dec. 4-5) the varsity team competed in the Rocket League's state championship and finished Top 12. Coach Dakota VandenToorn said "Our Fortnite team is still ranked #1 going into the spring season after winning every event this season." In this segment we hear from the head coach, as well as a couple players, Freshman Jonas Lenkiewicz and Senior Edgaras Jevaltas. We also talk to Adam Antor, former coach at West Catholic, who started the team in 2018. He is now the Esports coach at Florida Southern University in Lakeland. If you have an interest in joining the team, contact head coach Dakota at esports@westcatholic.org or check out the school's website at grwestcatholic.org.
On today's podcast, Principal Tony Fischer and content strategist John Gonzalez deliver some news and information from the Weekly Chatter newsletter, then talk to several guests.
Show Notes, Dec. 6, 2021
3:38: Assistant Athletic Director Cam Burns stops by to talk a little sports, as well as deliver another Cam's Giveaway.
6:00: Varsity cheer coach Anna Ramirez talks about the upcoming competitive cheer season with athletes Carly Laperna and Abbie Smith. They also mention an upcoming Middle School Cheer Camp on Dec. 29. More details at https://grwestcatholicsports.org/
9:10: Wrestling Coach Head Coach Daniel Zielinski, and his son Thomas, as well as fellow wrestlers Cole Karasinski and Jessica Martinez, are ready for the new season.
18:00: A new segment debuts on the show, "Did You Know with Principal Tony Fischer." He mentions the school's "Reverence to God's Name" week, which is taking place this week. "We have to be respectful and mindful of how we're using God's name," he said.
20:45: Esports is a growing sport, and our varsity team competed in this weekend’s Rocket League state championship and finished Top 12 in the state. Coach Dakota VandenToorn said "Our Fortnite team is still ranked #1 going into the spring season after winning every event this season." In this segment we also hear from Adam Antor, former coach at West Catholic, who started the team in 2018.
All of this information and more is available on the West Catholic website at grwestcatholic.org.
Our next show will air at 7:30 a.m. Dec. 15. We put a spotlight on the West Catholic Choir. https://www.facebook.com/GRWestCatholic
On today's podcast, Principal Tony Fischer and content strategist John Gonzalez deliver some news and information from the Weekly Chatter newsletter, then talk to several guests.
Show Notes, Nov. 30, 2021
6:10: Jeff Bailey, a tech specialist at West Catholic High School who also moonlights as the co-director of the Christmas Craft Show (Dec. 5) has all the details about this year's event. More than 200 vendors will be on hand.
8:28: A pilgrimage to the Holy Sites of Italy is planned in 2022 with Tony Assaf, who joins us from Italy to talk about the trip. He says the trip offers Faith, Fun and Food!
16:51: Assistant Athletic Director Cam Burns talks about the start of the winter sports season, which begins this week. He also offers his first "Cam's Giveaway" to one lucky winner.
20:39: Admissions director Kirsten Herich fills us in on a couple deadlines when it comes to enrollment, financial aid and scholarships.
22:20: West Catholic President and CEO Cynthia Kneibel runs down how students can benefit from Giving Tuesday, and she also puts out a special plea to parents to house 15 students from Argentina who are arriving for 5 weeks (Jan. 6-Feb. 8).
All of this information and more is available on the West Catholic website at grwestcatholic.org.
Our next show will air Dec. 6.