SATURDAY, MARCH 23, 2024 1180 delaware avenue • buffalo, new york GAMBIT XLIX
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Canisius High School welcomes you to For over 150 years, Canisius High School has challenged its students to strive for excellence as critical thinkers and effective communicators who are open to growth, intellectually competent, religious, loving, and committed to justice. XLIX
GAMBIT XLIX 2 The Meaning of Gambit An avid chess player recognizes the term “GAMBIT” as a strategic move whereby a pawn is sacrificed for a larger gain; namely, for an advantageous position on the board. Members of the Canisius High School community, avid in their mission to ensure and to enhance the opportunities for the success of our young “men for others,” likewise recognize the term as a means to gain strategic advantage for the students of Canisius High School. The sacrifices that you make to support GAMBIT benefit our mission and our continued commitment to serve young men, intellectually, morally and spiritually, in the life-changing and profound experience of a Jesuit education. In short, you help to secure for our students an “advantageous position” both within the confines of the big BLUE DOORS and beyond.
GAMBIT XLIX 3 Timeline —————— 6:00 pm —————— Professional Valet Parking Registration Cocktails & Hors d’oeuvres in Scaccia Auditorium Silent Auction items displayed in Scaccia Auditorium GAMBIT Night Raffle $10,000 Raffle Tickets —————— 7:45 pm —————— PLEASE PROCEED TO THE FIELD HOUSE Silent Auction closes at 8:00 pm Benediction Welcome from Canisius President Fr. David Ciancimino, S.J. Dinner Served Live Auction brought to you by Mike the Auctioneer Raise the Paddle for The Fr. C. Canisius Cares Scholarship After Party in Higgins Hall Checkout begins in Scaccia Auditorium after Live Auction
GAMBIT XLIX 4 From the President Dear Friends of Canisius High School, Welcome to GAMBIT! Your partnership with Canisius changes young lives. Of this, I am certain. Your support tonight fuels innovation, nurtures potential and transforms lives. With our emphasis on academic excellence and faith formation, Canisius fosters the development of young men into compassionate leaders, critical thinkers and responsible global citizens. And we have not wavered from our commitment to help students through difficult times – often some of the toughest of their young lives. Each year, some of our students and their families face unexpected challenges while they are with us. Tonight, we ask you for your help and to raise your paddle in support of The Fr. C. Canisius Cares Scholarship. You will hear from students who have benefited from your care and generosity when they needed it most. They will be asking for your support tonight so that young men, like them, will receive the help they need. GAMBIT XLIX will be a success because of your partnership and generosity. We are grateful for the dedicated work and care of the many volunteers, parents, alumni, teachers, trustees, students, sponsors, gift donors, hosts for GAMBIT parties, and, of course, all of you, who ensure that this important event is a triumphant success. Finally, my thanks to Director of Special Events Kelly Wilkens P’21 and our GAMBIT XLIX Co-Chairs – Lisa and Kevin Cross P’21, ’24; Danielle and David Dodman ’91, P’24; and Molly and Pete Kooshoian ’93, P’24 – who provided outstanding leadership and vision for GAMBIT. On behalf of all of us at CHS, thank you! Blessings and gratitude, Fr. David Ciancimino, S.J. President
GAMBIT XLIX 5 As is often the case, it is such an exciting time at Canisius High School. Here are some highlights: • Canisius was voted “Best Private School” in The Buffalo News Best in 716 issue. • Canisius was named to the Advanced Placement Honor Roll at the platinum level, the highest distinction and one earned by only 6% of eligible high schools across the United States and Canada. Canisius is the lone boys’ school in the Buffalo Niagara region to achieve either Platinum or Gold status by the College Board. • Niche.com ranked Canisius the No. 1 Best Catholic High School in the Buffalo area and the No. 1 Best All-Boys High School in the Buffalo area. Niche bases its Best Schools rankings on “rigorous analysis of key statistics and millions of reviews from students and parents. Ranking factors include the quality of colleges that students consider, student-teacher ratio, private school ratings, and more.” • Canisius offers 14 AP courses; in addition to 5 newly designed business courses and 1 religious studies course offered through Canisius University, making it possible for students to earn 60 college credits over their four years at CHS. • Canisius now boasts three flight simulators on the flight deck. More than 50 students are learning to fly. • One of the most striking spaces in Buffalo is even more beautiful as the columns of Scaccia Auditorium have been unwrapped and restored through a gift of an alumnus of the Class of ’53. • The Madden Center for Global Learning on our main campus is scheduled for completion this month. • Ralph A. Coppola ’66 Family Field, a stadium quality turf baseball field, along with the David M. Downing ’83 Press Box, opened last spring at our Stransky Athletic Complex. • The JV baseball field at Stransky – with its turf infield and grass outfield – is ready for competition this spring. • A new statue of St. Ignatius Loyola, founder of the Society of Jesus, will be installed outside the Blue Doors during the nicer weather. This is a gift from the Class of 1973. Pursue Excellence
From the Co-Chairs Welcome to GAMBIT XLIX, the annual signature event in support of the mission of Canisius High School! We are thrilled that you are joining us for this important night. Your generosity and support are most appreciated and are the key to a successful event. GAMBIT continues to thrive each year through the generosity of the sponsors, parents, alumni, and friends of Canisius High School. GAMBIT not only assists in raising funds for the school, but it provides Canisius’ benefactors, sponsors, and supporters with the opportunity to share fellowship together in a fun-filled night for all. Our Canisius community has remained strong with its focus on education, character building, and the spirt of “Magis” ringing loudly through the years. Tonight, we have the opportunity to provide the resources to further the mission of Canisius High School in graduating fine young men who are confident, morally responsible, well-rounded, and are future leaders. Your support for GAMBIT helps to ensure that Canisius High School continues to help shape future leaders and produce “Men for Others.” Tonight’s event takes a village to put together with a great deal of time and planning. We owe much to Kelly Wilkens for her tireless dedication to the success of GAMBIT over the years, with her meticulous attention to detail, creative ideas, and memorable gift gathering parties. Many thanks to Kelly! We appreciate Allison Stravino for her hard work behind the scenes to make GAMBIT a success. Thank you! The event owes its success also to the many volunteers, gift-gathering hosts, students, alumni and all those that have given generously of their time, talent, and treasure. Thank you! Finally, special thanks to Fr. Ciancimino and Mr. Coppola who have been, as always, instrumental in tonight’s event coming together. The “Blue Doors” have meant much to our families and are symbolic of Jesuit principles that Canisius has been embodying since 1870. With your support tonight, we enable this mission to continue well into the future. Thank you for your attendance and support – bid early and often and don’t forget to “raise the paddle!” It has been our honor and privilege to serve as your co-chairs this year. Have a wonderful evening! Lisa & Kevin Cross Danielle & David Dodman ’91 Molly & Peter Kooshoian ’93 GAMBIT XLIX 6
Raise Your Paddle —————— THE FR. C. CANISIUS CARES —————— SCHOLARSHIP FUND Life is full of challenges for students and families: some anticipated, others unexpected. While at Canisius, some of our students encounter serious hardships that can negatively impact their lives, their potential for success, and even the ability to continue at Canisius. Canisius High School and our president, Fr. Ciancimino, want to help when these unfortunate events occur. Tonight, we ask you to raise your paddle for the Fr. C. Canisius Cares Scholarship Fund. The funds raised tonight will be used as an emergency fund so Canisius can provide students with financial assistance when needed. This evening, several students will be sharing stories about going through tough times, and how Fr. C. and Canisius stepped in to help. RAISE YOUR PADDLES HIGH to help Canisius continue to change the lives of its students – especially when they need it the most. GAMBIT XLIX 7
Dinner Menu Various hand-passed hors d’oeuvres during Cocktail Hour in Scaccia Auditorium —————— FIRST COURSE —————— Green Goddess Caesar Salad Chopped little gem lettuce, crispy shallots, shaved parmesan, green goddess dressing, parmesan frico —————— SECOND COURSE —————— Filet of Sirloin and Crab Stuffed Flounder Potato puree, green beans, old bay tomato beurre blanc Vegetarian Choice ~ Rollatini Milanese (For those who previously selected this option) Zucchini, risotto alla milanese, roasted baby carrots, tomato braised king oyster mushrooms, swiss chard, crispy shallots —————— DESSERT —————— Chocolate Carmel Verrine Caramel custard, fudge brownie, chocolate mousse, caramel, whipped topping GAMBIT XLIX 8
—————— CRUSADER SPONSOR —————— —————— IGNATIAN SPONSOR —————— —————— BID PADDLE SPONSOR —————— —————— GOLD SPONSORS —————— GAMBIT XLIX 9
—————— BLUE SPONSORS —————— —————— MAGIS SPONSORS —————— GAMBIT XLIX 10
——— AFTER PARTY SPONSOR ——— ——— CENTERPIECE SPONSOR ——— ——— COAT CHECK SPONSORS ——— ——— BAR SPONSORS ——— ——— PHOTO AREA SPONSOR ——— GAMBIT XLIX 11 Underwriter Sponsors
GAMBIT XLIX 12 ——— REGISTRATION SPONSORS ——— ——— GAMBIT FAVOR SPONSOR ——— ——— VALET PARKING SPONSORS ——— ——— WINE TABLE SPONSOR ——— ——— CHAMPAGNE SPONSOR ——— ——— SPECIAL RAFFLE SPONSOR ——— Underwriter Sponsors
13 Gambit Cash Raffle Proceeds to benefit CANISIUS HIGH SCHOOL Donation: $50 Drawing to take place at the conclusion of the Live Auction. Winner need not be present. FIRST PRIZE: $ 10,000 SECOND PRIZE: $ 1,000 THIRD PRIZE: $ 500 Tickets can be purchased anytime before the Live Auction begins. GAMBIT XLIX
GAMBIT XLIX 14 Special Raffle Tonight we are offering a SPECIAL RAFFLE for an autographed Josh Allen framed jersey! DONATED BY: SUSAN AND ROBERT BASIL ’81 Own a piece of Buffalo Bills History!! This #17 Buffalo Bills Nike jersey is autographed by Josh Allen and comes with a jersey display frame case. VALUE: Priceless TICKETS : $50 each –OR– 5 for $100 Purchase your chances during the Silent Auction and dinner. Drawing will take place prior to the Live Auction.
Board of Trustees —————— CANISIUS HIGH SCHOOL —————— Robert Reger, Jr. ’66, Chairman Peter Augustine ’83, Vice Chairman Christopher Bartolone, M.D. ’81 Martin Boryszak ’96 Renier Brentjens, M.D. ’85 Rev. David Ciancimino, S.J. Edward Cosgrove, M.D. ’86 Matthew Davison ’99 Rev. Jason Downer, S.J. Karen Downing Richard Ganci ’96 William Greeley, M.D. ’68 Paul Hartigan Kenneth Kencel ’77 Brandon Littles III ’02 Anthony Manzella ’72 Rev. Joseph Marina, S.J. Angela Miller, Esq. Herman Mogavero, M.D. ’68 Rajeev Ramchand, Ph.D. ’95 Jerome Romano ’94 Matthew Sippel ’82 Rev. Thomas Slon, S.J. ’75 15 GAMBIT XLIX
Auction Committee CO-CHAIR COUPLES: Lisa and Kevin Cross Danielle and David Dodman ’91 Molly and Pete Kooshoian ’93 DIRECTOR OF SPECIAL EVENTS: Kelly Wilkens VICE PRESIDENT FOR INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT: Andrew Deyell ’91 ADVANCEMENT TEAM: Debbie Burke, Jay Josker ’01, Keith McShea, Dale Podlas ’87 GAMBIT ASSOCIATE: Allison Stravino AUCTIONEER: Michael Casacci ADVERTISING & SPONSORSHIP: Auction Co-Chairs Kelly Wilkens ACQUISITIONS: Jenna Barney, Kim Castiglione, Stephanie Grillo, Rosanne Kollidas, Jamie Saperston DECORATIONS: Anne Marie Comaratta, Brady Karas ’23, Arlene Eberhard, Allison Stravino, Kathy Wiepert, Gwen Alessi, the CHS Art Club and Mrs. Sarah Lewalski FACILITIES MANAGEMENT: Roy Lauta, Jacob Casell GIFT MANAGEMENT: Allison Stravino LIVE AUCTION MANAGEMENT: Debbie Burke and Sue Hann PRINTING: Zenger Group SILENT AUCTION MANAGEMENT: Patti Raab TECHNICAL MANAGEMENT: Sound Video Solutions Greater Giving CHS IT - Eric Amodeo ’94, Emily Friol, Andy Zloty GAMBIT XLIX 16
Past Gambit Chairs I 1975 Robert B. Mayer II 1976 Minot H. Ortolani ’47 III 1977 James R. Greer IV 1978 Franklin G. Downing, Sr. V 1979 Bernard F. Mulhern* VI 1980 Peter R. Travers, Jr. ’60 VII 1981 Francis J. Busteed, Jr. ’50 VIII 1982 Ronald F. Ahrens ’50 IX 1983 Frank T. Gaglione ’62, John L. Kirschner X 1984 Paul D. Bauer ’61, William J. Lawley, Sr. XI 1985 John P. Courtney ’48, Franklin H. Fitch ’51 XII 1986 Ralph J. Vanner, Robert D. Wischerath ’48 XIII 1987 Ralph A. Coppola ’66, Joseph P. Michael ’64 XIV 1988 Edward C. Cosgrove, Lawlor F. Quinlan, Jr.’59 XV 1989 Thomas H. Macmanus ’56 XVI 1990 Carl J. Tripi ’51 XVII 1991 James J. Swartz, Sr., Eugene P. Vukelic ’48 XVIII 1992 Frank L. Eberl ’63, Edward J. Flammer XIX 1993 Frank L. Eberl ’63, Edward J. Flammer XX 1994 Joseph F. Basil, Jr. ’71, George J. Zenger ’50 XXI 1995 Madonna & William Buscaglia, Jr.’60, Rocco J. & Anna Marie Diina XXII 1996 Susan Koessler & William Koessler ’74, Mark & Cheryl Patton XXIII 1997 Carol & Carl Montante, Sr.’60, Wendy & Carl Montante, Jr.’84, Alejandra & Michael Montante ’86 XXIV 1998 Patti & Bill Lawley, Jr. ’81, Margaret & Bob Zak ’75 XXV 1999 Jeanne Zenger & George Zenger, Sr. ’50*, Maureen & Michael Pratt ’78 XXVI 2000 Ronald P. & Mary Clare Smith XXVII 2001 Ronald P. & Mary Clare Smith XXVIII 2002 Gail & Norman J. Sfeir ’68 XXIX 2003 John A. & Colleen M. Sellick XXX 2004 Amy & Paul Vukelic ’79, Eileen & Mark Hamberger ’65 XXXI 2005 Amy & Paul Vukelic ’79 XXXII 2006 Ed & Anne Bloomberg, Brian & Ann Carrier 17 GAMBIT XLIX
Past Gambit Chairs XXXIII 2007 Dan & Dana Fulham XXXIV 2008 Maureen & John Ahrens ’82, Kathy and Jim Pokornowski XXXV 2009 Karen & Kevin Curran ’75, Anne & Herb Glose ’75 XXXVI 2010 Darlene & Mike Spychala, Susan & Stephen Leous ’76 XXXVII 2011 MaryBeth & Jim Basil ’80, Shari & Frank Downing, Jr.’82 XXXVIII 2012 Joanne & Greg Bauer, Michelle & Sam Capizzi XXXIX 2013 Patricia & Bill Christ ’82, Martha & David Mangan ’80 XL 2014 Betsy & John Sullivan ’88, Kellie & Steve Ulrich XLI 2015 Therese & Kevin Quinn ’82, Jody & Bill Quinn ’84 XLII 2016 Laura & David Gioia ’87, Wendy & Carl Montante, Jr.’84, Meegan & Bradley Stamm ’87, Barb & Bob Lupica, Maria & John Pieroni, Patti & Tom Raab ’69 XLIV 2018 Amy & Russ Brandon, Patti & Bill Lawley ’81, Kirsten & Mike Lawley ’88, Diane & T.J. Revelas XLV 2019 Susan & Robert Basil ’81, Pam & Mike Smith ’89, Heather & Matt Vukelic ’94 XLVI 2020/2021 Jodi & Tom Quatroche ’88, Cheryl & Jim Swiezy, Margie & Larry Whistler ’86 XLVII 2022 Kelly & Marc Fortner ’88, Andrea & David Siwiec, Alexandra & Neil Wehr XLVIII 2023 Jennifer & Michael Ball ’91, Kari & Marco Cercone, Diane & Ryan Den Haese Total raised from the past 48 GAMBIT events in support of the mission to educate the young men at Canisius High School has surpassed: $12,500,000 Thank You for your continued support! GAMBIT XLIX 18
Cash Donors Mr. and Mrs. Christopher J. Ahrens ’93 Mr. Joseph F. Basil, Sr. ’50 Mr. and Mrs. Gregory M. Bauer Ms. Maureen Beecher Mr. and Mrs. Dennis J. Beecher, Sr. Mr. and Mrs. Douglas J. Benz ’96 Mr. and Mrs. Michael Benzin Mr. and Mrs. Brian Bocketti Mr. and Mrs. Steven Boldt Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Borowiak Mr. Christopher B. Burke ’69 Mr. and Mrs. Matthew J. Carver ’94 Mr. and Mrs John Carver Mr. and Mrs. William P. Cavanaugh ’88 Mr. and Mrs. Michael Cheng Mrs. Anne Marie Comaratta Mr. and Mrs. Patrick M. Cullinan, Sr. Mr. David J. D’Arata ’77 and Mrs. Jennifer Persico Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Dahl Mr. and Mrs. Mark Daly ’90 LTC Robert F. Dickerson and Dr. Mary M. Dickerson Mr. Michael J. DiGiore ’93 Mrs. Karen S. Downing Mr. and Mrs. Ryan A. Dunn Mr. and Mrs. Warren Emblidge Mr. and Mrs. Patrick H. Enright ’89 Mr. Brian W. Gaine and Dr. Patricia A. Gaine Mr. and Mrs. Richard J. Ganci ’96 Mr. and Mrs. Carmen Gentile ’69 Mrs. Jennifer Gress Mr. and Mrs. David M. Guarino ’89 Mr. Ian Harrington ’88 Mr. and Mrs. William D. Hibbard Mr. and Mrs. Robert S. Johnson ’88 Mr. and Mrs. Paul G. Joyce ’85 Mrs. Crystal Kilgour Mr. and Mrs. Raymond A. Kollidas Mr. and Mrs. Peter M. Kooshoian ’93 Dr. and Mrs. Michael LaCivita Mr. and Mrs. Aaron Lowinger Mr. and Mrs. Christopher P. Marcello Mr. and Mrs. Shaun P. McCleary, Jr. ’94 Mr. and Mrs. Robert Mercurio Dr. Michael J. Mineo ’96 and Dr. Susan Mineo Mr. and Mrs. Brendan J. Rich ’98 Mr. Mark Rittling and Mrs. Amy Habib Rittling Mr. and Mrs. Brian P. Schuster ’91 Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Sciolino Mr. and Mrs.Thomas Sheehan Dr. and Mrs. Adnan H. Siddiqui Mr. and Mrs. Paul G. Sippel ’81 Mrs. Joann Skaros Mr. and Mrs. Philip Snyder Mr. and Mrs. Michael D. Snyder Mr. and Mrs. Sean Spencer Mr. and Mrs. Steven J. Tallides Mr. and Mrs. Thomas J. Vanner ’86 Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence V. Whistler IV ’86 Mr. and Mrs. Paul J. Wischerath ’87 Mr. and Mrs. Gregory C. Yungbluth ’67 19 GAMBIT XLIX
Faculty & Staff Donors Amazon & Target Donors Mrs. Stefanie Adams Mr. and Mrs. Eric C. Amodeo ’94 Mr. and Mrs. Dennis J. Beecher, Jr. ’88 Mr. Samuel D. Belsito, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Michael Burke Mr. and Mrs. Matthew J. Carver ’94 Rev. David S. Ciancimino, S.J. Mr. and Mrs. Andrew D. Deyell ’91 Mrs. Holly Graham and Mr. Donald Graham Mrs. Holly Graham Mr. Craig W. Hinchcliffe Mr. Bryce J. Hopkins ’08 Dr. Amy K. Kimmel and Mr.Terry Kimmel Mr. and Mrs. Samuel J. Rizzo ’97 Ms. Joni L. Schaller Mr. and Mrs. Justin and Melissa Siuta Ms. Sherry Taylor and Mr.Tony Puckhaber Mr. and Mrs. Sean M. Todtenhagen ’97 Mrs. Jeanne C. Whittington and Mr. Maurice Whittington Mrs. Courtnie Wojda Mr. and Mrs. Joseph A. Zera ’01 Ms. Julie Beale Mr. and Mrs. Shawn P. Benzer Mr. & Mrs. Michael Benzin Mr. and Mrs. Joseph M. Cannon ’94 Mr. and Mrs. Robert Castiglione Mr. and Mrs. James J. Ciancio Mr. and Mrs. Joseph B. Coppola ’89 Mr. & Mrs. Stephen Cross Dr. and Mrs. Michael E. D’Angelo Mr. and Mrs. James Eberhard Mr. and Mrs. David W. Gioia ’87 Mr. & Mrs. Jeff Hayes Mr. and Mrs. Luka Kadiev Mr. & Mrs. Steven Rohauer Ms. Kim M. Smith-Capozzolo Mr. & Mrs. Lawrence Whistler III ’60 GAMBIT XLIX 20
Gift Gathering Hosts Andrea Amodeo Paul and Leslie Anain ’84 Gwen and Mike Appelbaum ’88 Debra Arcara Robert and Susan Basil ’81 Marc and Mary Frances Bayer Ronald and Michelle Benczkowski Liz and Doug Benz ’96 Julie Benzin Farid and Monica Berenji Matthew and Lynda Carver ’94 Kim Castiglione Kari Cercone Mollie Ciocca Anne Marie Comaratta Lori Cosgrove Ryan and Diane Den Haese Maria Deyell Sarah and Rocco Diina ’96 Missy Dunn Joanna Eberl Anne Emblidge Kelly Fortner Brian and Tricia Gaine Robert and Nancy Gallagher Liz and Rick Ganci ’96 Laura Gioia David and Laura Gioia ’87 Laura Graber Shawn and Amanda Grant Tom and Stephanie Grillo Mr. and Mrs. David M. Guarino ’89 Kate Hibbard Rose Hoffman Danielle Jacobs Roseanne Kollidas Jackie and Mike Kooshoian ’99 Molly and Pete Kooshoian ’93 David and Elizabeth Kraus ’82 Jennifer Kropelin Rebecca LaCivita Kim Lana Matthew and Kelly Lincoln Lisa Long Nicole and Shaun McCleary ’94 Meghan and Rob Mercurio Sarah and Bill Miller ’04 Michael and Susan Mineo ’96 Sally Miranda Donna and Don Morse Sara Ponkow Falvo Jody and Bill Quinn ’84 Monica Richards James and Courtney Scime Danielle Seereiter Liz and Tom Sheehan Debora Sippel Andrea Siwiec Mark and Shannon Skowron David and Renata Stewart ’99 Annemarie Talty Christine Verni Neil and Alexandra Wehr Kelly Wischerath 21 GAMBIT XLIX
Canisius Past & Present The history of Canisius High School parallels the development of Buffalo, New York in fascinating ways. Take, for example, its roots in the earliest days of Buffalo’s Catholic past. As early as 1848, the first Bishop of the Buffalo Diocese, the Right Reverend John Timon, C.M., wanted to establish in Buffalo a system of Catholic schools. Having called on the Society of Jesus to help him alleviate a parochial problem at the Church of St. Louis, he also struck upon the solution to his pedagogical problems. In September 1870, the Jesuits at St. Michael’s Church on Washington Street opened a school adjacent to their residence on Ellicott Street. In its first year, this combined high school and college dedicated to Blessed Peter Canisius served 50 students, some of them boarders who resided with the Fathers themselves. In 1872, the cornerstone was laid for a new college building on Washington Street, the central portion of which was completed in November of the same year. In 1883, Canisius High School was incorporated by the State of New York as the Academic Department of Canisius College. In 1908, the boarding portion of the school was closed, and by September 1912, the high school served 379 boys. In December 1912, Canisius College moved into new buildings at Main and Jefferson Streets in Buffalo, and the Washington Street school was turned over to the exclusive use of the high school. In 1919, Fr. Robert Johnson became the first rector of the separate high school community. In September 1928, Canisius High School received an independent charter, completing its separation from Canisius College. GAMBIT XLVIII 22
Canisius Past & Present By the early 1940s, the buildings on Washington Street were in considerable disrepair and no longer suitable for the 400-500 boys annually attending Canisius High School. In 1944, the Jesuits purchased the former Masonic Consistory, which in turn had incorporated the former George F. Rand mansion at 1180 Delaware Avenue. Between 1944 and 1948, the high school classes were split, with the upper school students still attending classes at the Washington Street school and the lower school classes attending the new school on Delaware Avenue. On August 29, 1948, fully a century after Bishop Timon had expressed his desire to see Catholic education thrive in Buffalo, the Reverend John R. O’Hara, C.S.C., led a solemn procession through the former Consistory and into the new classroom building in order to bless it. In September 1948, all students walked through the doors at 1180 Delaware for the first academic year in which the school was unified in its new facility. In 1956, a permanent Jesuit residence at the high school was dedicated and named after the two alumni who had generously donated the money to construct the building: George M. Frauenheim and Edward E. Frauenheim, Jr. In 2003, Canisius purchased 63 acres on Clinton Street, and 2007 saw the groundbreaking and development of the Robert J. Stransky Memorial Athletic Complex. The school acquired 1193 Delaware Avenue in 2006, a building that became the school’s Advancement, Business Office & Alumni House. 23 GAMBIT XLIX
Canisius Past & Present The fall of 2009 marked the completion of an ambitious expansion including the Montante Academic Complex, a state-ofthe-art math and science wing, and the Bernard J. Kennedy Field House, a firstclass athletic facility that houses three full-length basketball courts and seats more than 1,000 people. Canisius purchased the Connors mansion at 1140 Delaware Avenue in Buffalo in May of 2017 and, following renovations, the Canisius High School Center for the Arts opened in January of 2018. The 13,000-square-foot building allowed Canisius to expand its campus and deepen its commitment to the arts as part of the quality Jesuit education offered at the school. Spring 2023 saw the opening of Canisius’ new baseball facility at the Stransky Complex, whose centerpiece is Coppola Family Field, the varsity’s synthetic turf diamond. A JV field with a turf infield and grass outfield is complete and ready for its first action in the 2024 spring season. The baseball expansion was part of a capital campaign that was also highlighted by the Madden Center for Global Learning, which is very close to completion. The striking, modern Madden Center is located at 1180 Delaware Ave., between the Koessler Academic Center and the Beecher Academic Wing. Today, Canisius has an enrollment of approximately 600 students as we remain committed to shaping “Men for Others.” Tonight, we invite you to share in the Canisius legacy and our continued dedication to a bright future. AD MAJOREM DEI GLORIAM! GAMBIT XLIX 24
Auction Rules 1. Upon entry, each guest will be given a bid number to use during the Live Auction and Raise the Paddle Appeal. To bid in the Live Auction, hold your bid card with the number toward the auctioneer so the auctioneer can clearly see it. By bidding in the Live Auction, each bidder agrees to these Auction Rules. 2. A bid acknowledged by the live auctioneer is a legal contract to purchase the item. 3. Auction items will be awarded to one purchaser only. The top bid amount for an auction item will not be split among bidders who may have agreed to pay a portion of the top bid amount. A purchaser who wishes to so split the payment for an auction item must collect the individual payments from the other bidder(s), present those payments to the auction cashier at the time the purchaser pays for the top bidder’s purchases or accept these payments as a partial reimbursement for the total payment the purchaser has made. 4. All purchases are final, and there will be no exchanges or refunds on items unless otherwise noted. 5. The Auctioneer reserves the right to reject any bid that is a partial advance over the prior bid increment. 6. We will gladly accept your payment by Visa or MasterCard, Discover or American Express. The Federal Tax ID for CHS is 16-0743943. CHS is a 501(c)3 charitable organization and your payments above the market value are tax deductible as a charitable contribution only to the extent provided by law. 7. Unless otherwise noted, all goods, services or certificates must be claimed and used within one year of the auction date. 8. GAMBIT XLIX reserves the right to add or withdraw, without notice, items to or from the auction. 9. The purchaser assumes the responsibility to locate and remove the purchases from the auction premises. Purchasers will claim certificates for services, nontangible certificates and tangible items not displayed at checkout. Simply have your paid receipt available for the checkout volunteers. 25 GAMBIT XLIX
Auction Rules 10. All items not removed from the auction premises this evening will be stored in the GAMBIT office at 1193 Delaware and must be claimed after the auction during normal school hours. 11. Any shipping costs are the responsibility of the winning bidder. 12. Reservations for trips and vacation accommodations must be mutually arranged with the donor unless otherwise noted. Tickets in travel packages are for coach class services unless otherwise noted. No refunds will be allowed on travel packages for canceled tickets and/or accommodations. 13. Travel will be provided by donors as described even if the prices increase above those stated. Because travel charges change, travel costs may decrease the values stated, but no refunds will be allowed. 14. GAMBIT XLIX has attempted to describe and catalog all items correctly, but all items are offered as is, where is. GAMBIT XLIX neither warrants nor represents, and in no event shall be responsible for, the correctness of descriptions, genuineness, authorship, provenance, or condition of the items. No statement made in this catalog or made orally at the auction or elsewhere shall be deemed such a warranty, representation or assumption of liability. The values listed are estimates only and are not warranted for tax purposes or fair market value. Items have not been appraised unless so noted. 15. Each person issued a bid number (bidder) assumes all risks and hazards related to the auction and items obtained at the auction. Each bidder agrees to hold harmless from any liability arising from GAMBIT XLIX, CHS, its faculty, staff and employees, the auctioneer(s), the auction company and its agents and employees, and the event organizers, sponsors and volunteers connected with the auction. GAMBIT XLIX 26
Online Bidding Instructions This year’s auction will use Greater Giving Online Bidding – allowing for a paperless bidding system. You will bid using your smartphone or tablet on silent auction items. Also, you can easily track Packages by “following” their activity without having to continuously return to a table or bid sheet. How to Mobile Bid with Greater Giving Online Bidding 1. Register your mobile number and credit card information on our registration page in advance of the event or upon arrival. 2. When the auction is open, you will receive an automated ‘Welcome’ text with your bidder link. 3. After clicking the link in the text, begin searching for packages by name, number, or category 4. Select the package you wish to bid on. 5. You can Bid the next increment or Bid More than the next increment 6. If you choose to Bid More you can choose to set your Max Bid. If your max bid is the highest, the system will automatically bid in your favor until you are outbid or until the silent auction closes. If your bid is lower than the highest max bid on that package, you will be prompted to enter a higher bid. 7. To “watch” a package, select the star icon on the package. 8. To make a donation, select the Donation button on your home screen and choose a preset amount or select the Custom Amount button to enter the amount you wish to donate. 9. If you’re out-bid at any point before the silent auction closes, you will receive a text message. 10. To view packages you are bidding on, click the menu button and select Bids. 11. To view packages you are watching, click the menu button and select Favorites. 12. Once the auction closes, the guest with the highest bid will win. 13. Under the Bids area you can check your winning packages. 27 GAMBIT XLIX
Thank You to all of our loyal & hard-working volunteers Thank you parents, students, faculty, staff and administrators for your generosity of time and talent during GAMBIT XLIX. The success of GAMBIT XLIX is because of YOU and we THANK YOU! “What the heart gives away is never gone. It is kept in the heart of others.” - ROBIN ST. JOHN Printing of this catalog generously donated by GAMBIT XLIX 28
Live Auction
Live Auction - 1 Peter Fowler Original Blue Doors Painting This one of a kind Blue Doors painting by Peter Fowler was created specifically for GAMBIT XLIX! Originally from Denver, Peter came to Buffalo after living and painting in Seville, Spain for ten years. Peter’s work can be found in corporate and private collections internationally, including in Spain and New York City, as well as locally in Buffalo at Eastman Machines, Uniland Development, Canterbury Woods and Rigidized Metals. Also included in this package is a $150 credit for custom framing at Buffalo Canvas, located at 1575 Main Street. Thank you: Peter Fowler & Buffalo Canvas Value: PRICELESS
Live Auction - 2 The Ultimate New York Yankees Experience for 4 Don’t miss the chance to see the NY Yankees take on the LA Dodgers and their newly acquired generational sensation Shohei Ohtani! This package includes four (4) seats in the Delta SKY360 Suite for the Saturday, June 8, 2024, Yankees vs LA Dodgers game (7:35pm). You will have exclusive access to the Delta SKY360 Suite, located behind home plate on the main level. This package also includes accommodations for four (4) people the nights of Friday, June 7 and Saturday, June 8 at the NY Athletic Club. Thank you: : Kathleen & Todd Best Kathleen & Rocco Maggiotto ’68 Value: $3,250
Live Auction - 3 Private Dinner Cooked by Our Very Own Chef and Jesuit, Fr. Chuck Frederico, a.k.a. Fr. Fred Fr. Frederico, alumnus of the acclaimed Culinary Institute of America, will come to your home and cook up a culinary masterpiece for you and nine (9) of your family (or closest friends). Fr. Fred will join you for dinner for a wonderful evening of food and hospitality! RESTRICTIONS: Date to be mutually agreed upon between Fr. Frederico and winning bidder Thank you: Fr. Chuck Frederico, S.J. & Canisius High School Value: PRICELESS
Live Auction - 4 Week in Italy! Enjoy a one-week stay at a three-bedroom home located on Pacentro’s main street, San Marco! The home has a full kitchen, formal dining room, three-bedrooms with queen beds in each, air conditioning, front and back balconies, full bathroom, washing machine, and Wi-Fi. The home was fully remodeled in 2019. If you are looking for a relaxing few days in a small town nestled in the mountains, with the ability to get to larger historic sites in Italy, including Rome and the Amalfi coast, you do not want to miss this opportunity. RESTRICTIONS: Dates to be mutually agreeable between the donor and winning bidder. July and August typically are blocked out dates. Thank you: Marco & Kari Cercone P’23 Value: $4,000
Live Auction - 5 6 Reserved Front Row Graduation Seats Attention Senior Parents: Don’t miss this chance to reserve six (6) front row seats for your son’s Canisius High School graduation on May 23, 2024 (this is in addition to the tickets allotted to each graduate). Also includes two reserved premium parking spots! Thank you: Canisius High School Value: PRICELESS
Live Auction - 6 Dinner for Six (6) at Siena with Fr. Dave Ciancimino, S.J. and Fr. Chuck Frederico, S.J. Join Fr. Ciancimino and Fr. Frederico for a fabulous evening of food and wine at Siena! You and five (5) of your friends will enjoy the company of Fr. Ciancimino and Fr. Frederico at Siena for a four (4) course gourmet dinner, including a wine pairing with each course. The menu will be selected by Chef Chris Smaldone and the wine selections will be made by Chuck Mauro and Kathy Donaldson. This dinner is delicious, a lot of fun, memorable and highly coveted! RESTRICTIONS: Your date must be booked at least one month in advance. Saturdays are excluded. Gratuity is not included. Additional alcohol beyond the wine pairings is not included. Thank you: Chuck Mauro ’80 & Siena Value: PRICELESS
Live Auction - 7 Progressive Dinner for 6 with Limo Relax and celebrate a special night with great friends by enjoying a progressive dinner for six (6) VIP guests from our chefs at Remington Tavern, Angeline, and Hutch’s. Transportation by Buffalo Limo will be provided! Your night will begin at Remington Tavern with appetizers. Next, you will enjoy a coastal-Italian inspired dinner at Angeline. Your evening will conclude with desserts at Hutch’s. Wine pairing will be provided by restaurant staff, at each location. RESTRICTIONS: Gratuity is not included. Limo bus transportation is for a maximum of 6 hours. This auction item cannot be used on Saturdays or holidays and must be redeemed within one year from the date of purchase. Thank you: Mark Hutchinson & Paul Jenkins Buffalo Limousine Value: PRICELESS
Live Auction - 8 Canisius High School Reserved Parking Your son will enjoy his newly obtained VIP status when he parks in his own private parking space. He will have no excuse to be late again! His parking space will have a professionally-made sign personalized with his name for the 2024-25 school year. Thank you: Canisius High School Value: PRICELESS
Live Auction - 9 CHS vs St. Joe’s Super Chexx Bubble Hockey Crusaders vs. Marauders, the rivalry continues with this custom Super Chexx Bubble Hockey game featuring Canisius High School hockey players vs. “the other guys.” An indestructible Lexan dome and aluminum cabinet with a plastic base make this a very durable game. You can play with 2 or 4 players, and it includes electronic scoring of goals, shots on goal, period and running time. A large CHS emblem on the base shows which side you are on! A GAMBIT exclusive! Delivery and setup included. Thank you: Suzanne Coppola, Carolyn & Joseph Coppola ’89 Jennifer & Daniel Coppola Celine & Andrew Krouse Value: PRICELESS
Live Auction - 10 Ireland Vacation May your troubles be less, and your blessings be more, and nothing but happiness come through your door! Experience Ireland with a one-week stay at a fourbedroom, 2 1/2 bath townhouse that sleeps seven. Enjoy a pint or two at the nearby Eden Pub, walk through Marley Park (two blocks from the house), tour St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Trinity College, Grafton Street and more! Erin go bragh! RESTRICTIONS: Dates to be mutually agreeable between the donor and winning bidder. Thank you: Jean & Tod Canty ’74 Value: $4,000
Raise Your Paddle —————— THE FR. C. CANISIUS CARES —————— SCHOLARSHIP FUND Life is full of challenges for students and families: some anticipated, others unexpected. While at Canisius, some of our students encounter serious hardships that can negatively impact their lives, their potential for success, and even the ability to continue at Canisius. Canisius High School and our president, Fr. Ciancimino, want to help when these unfortunate events occur. Tonight, we ask you to raise your paddle for the Fr. C. Canisius Cares Scholarship Fund. The funds raised tonight will be used as an emergency fund so Canisius can provide students with financial assistance when needed. This evening, several students will be sharing stories about going through tough times, and how Fr. C. and Canisius stepped in to help. RAISE YOUR PADDLES HIGH to help Canisius continue to change the lives of its students – especially when they need it the most.
Thank you for your support of Canisius High School.
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Congratulations to CANISIUS HIGH SCHOOL on GAMBIT XLIX THE SWIEZY FAMILY Jim, Cheryl, Oliver ’22 & Sydney Scott, Bethany and Felix ’25
www.curbell.com Curbell has been a part of Buffalo and Western New York for over 80 years — from our start on Hertel Avenue in 1942 to our current headquarters in Orchard Park. Curbell has remained committed to our employees, our customers, and the communities we serve since our foundation. We’re proud to sponsor Canisius High School’s GAMBIT fundraiser and its mission of ensuring that every student has the transformational experience of a Canisius education.
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Independent Health is proud to support organizations like Canisius High School, whose efforts help strengthen our community and enhance the quality of life for all Western New Yorkers. Supporting those making this a community we are proud to call home. ©2024 Independent Health Association, Inc. IH34174 independenthealth.com Ensuring a Tomorrow. Better
KAREN BAKER Licensed Real Estate Agent #1 AGENT IN WNY Wishing GAMBIT Chaircouples Lisa and Kevin Cross, Danielle and David Dodman ’91, & Molly and Peter Kooshoian ’93 a successful and wonderful evening! I’d like to welcome you to your home. karenbaker@howardhanna.com (716) 830-7264
ZENGER GROUP | PARTNERS PRESS | DOWNTOWN GRAPHICS www.zenger.com Congratulations on GAMBIT XLIX and continued success to Canisius High School
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Next Year Celebrating 50 Years! GAMBIT XLX Stay tuned for details!
Enjoy your Moment Our passion for divine cuisine, stunning venues and experienced staff have earned us the distinction of being the area’s preferred caterer! richscatering.com 716-878-8422
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