Titled, “A Tradition Like No Other,” co-chairs JB and Laura Bunda and Jake and Jen Crimmins have been putting together a night to remember.

“This year’s ball theme was thoughtfully chosen to reflect the spirit of a renowned golf tournament held each spring – one celebrated for its rich history, excellence and legacy,” Laura Bunda said. “Much like that iconic event, our ball is rooted in tradition and strengthened by the generations who have supported it.”

Held each May since 1983, funds raised during the Friends of St. Edmond Ball go toward the operating costs of the school, supporting teachers and campus improvements.

Kicking off the night will be a special presentation at 6:45 p.m. to honor the Spirit of St. Edmond Awards.

The Spirit of St. Edmond recipients this year include Doug Smith (alumni), Pat and Jane O’Rouke (past parents), Wally and Nadine Schlienz (family), Paula Nemmers-Skarich (faculty citation), Tonya Lawler (superior service) and Tom Miklo, who will receive the James R. Bocken Distinguished Service Award.

A silent auction opened on Thursday and closes on May 9, while select items will be up for bid the night of May 9 beginning at 8:30 p.m.

Some of the main auction items include a trip for four to the PGA Tour Phoenix Waste Management Tournament, dinner for eight prepared by Monsignor Kevin McCoy and the Rev. Jake Rosenmeyer, four tickets with hotel rooms in Chicago for the Notre Dame vs. Stanford college football game and a weekend trip to Chicago for four to see Morgan Wallen perform along with a Chicago Cubs game.

There will also be car and staff raffles held along with entertainment provided by DJ MP3, Eric James out of Kansas City, who serves as the DJ for Kansas City Chiefs pregame and other events held at Arrowhead Stadium.

“We are excited to shake things up this year,” Jen Crimmins said. “We’re also leaning fully into our theme and have some fun new elements that we can’t wait for everyone to experience.”

Tim Flattery, a 2004 SEHS graduate, will serve as the master of ceremonies with 2022 graduate Brady O’Brien handling dynamic lighting.

“We want everyone to attend this year,” JB Bunda said, “Especially those who have never joined us before. At St. Edmond Catholic School, tradition and legacy are at the heart of who we are, and we want the next generation to experience the impact this special weekend has on our community.

“Simply attending is a meaningful gift,” he added.

The Friends of St. Edmond Ball golf outing is set for Friday, May 8, with the Friends of St. Edmond Alumni and Friends Basketball Tournament taking place Saturday, May 9.

“Serving as ball chairs is simply our way of giving back to a school that has given so much to our family and to so many others,” Jake Crimmins said. “Catholic education doesn’t just happen. It requires commitment, generosity and community.

“We are honored to help lead an event that ensures this mission continues for future generations,” he said.