Summer 2009 Alumni News

America's First Free Archdiocesan High School

Roman Catholic High School

The Official Magazine for Alumni, Family, and Friends of

SUMMER 2009

2 Roman Catholic High School

Catholic High AlumniCourage. Character. Conviction.

NecrologyPresident/RectorRev. Joseph W. Bongard '77

PrincipalRobert P. O'Neill

Alumni Association President

Larry J. Elliott '66

Director of Institutional Advancement

Denise LePera

Director of MarketingSteve Ziegler '04

Director of DevelopmentAnn Vassallo

Coordinator of Development Services

Bernadine Mahon

Alumni BookkeeperLisa Wolfington

Inside this Issue

Commencement....................pg. 3

Two Tears for the Lady..........pg.6

Getting to the Heart of the Matter.........................................pg. 8

Day at the Bay!........................pg. 9

Name Your Magazine!..........pg. 13

The Kairos Experience..........pg. 17

Fides Et. Scientia Society.....pg. 18

The Usuals

Thank you................................pg. 4 Desk of the Rector................pg. 5 Around Roman......................pg.12 Athletics...................................pg.14 Reunions..................................pg. 15 Class Notes...............................pg. 16 Calendar...................................pg. 20

James J. Johnston ’36 Joseph R. Quinn ’38 Reverend Joseph P. Logan, S.J. ’39Felix J. D’Lauro ’39 John F. Pippet ’40 William M. Harper ’42 Gerald J. McGlinn ’43 William V. Graeff ’44 Charles A. Martin ’44 John W. Painter ’46 James S. Farrar ’46 Leon Jablonski ’46 Jeremiah F. Frain ’47 Joseph E. Quigley ’48 Charles E. Christmann ’48 Philip R. Young ’48 John A. McEnery ’49 Joseph J. Gallagher ’50 Edward Knittel ’50 Michael Lederer ’50 Vincent T. Creedon ’52 Thomas Gahagan ’53 Leo Witkoski ’53 Bohdan W. Siryj ’54 Robert J. Ludwig Sr. ’55 William T. Donahue ’55 John F. Murphy ’55 Michael McNicholas ’56 John J. Shawaryn ’58 John P. Bryson’59 John J. Regardi ’59 Frederick J. Nichols ’60 James C. McKee ’62 Robert I. Vetter ’63Dr. Stanley F. Kapa ’64Anthony Jedwabny ’69Robert Ray ’71James F. O’Neill ’74

Friends and FamilyTeresa A. Banecker (Grandmother of Eric '07)Janet Basara (Mother of James '82Paul L. Bennett, Jr. (Father of Michael '77; Grandfather of Matthew '05)Elizabeth Copestick (Mother of William '77, John '81, Mark '83, Michael '83, and Robert '85)Catherine Dia Covo (Mother of Rosetta Melaragni, RCHS Staff & Grandmother of Dave Melaragni ‘94)Nicholas Dunphy (Brother of Victor ‘61)George Fiocca (Father of George III ’04)Jackielynn Galczyk (Wife of Paul '56)Nara Iniquez (Grandmother of Nicholas Francia '11)

Stephanie Kirsch (Daughter-in-law of Thomas Kirsch '58)Ellen ‘Penny’ Lazorko (Mother of Theresa, RCHS Faculty)Joseph J. Leahy, Sr. (Father of Joseph ‘76)Mary Ellen ‘Maureen’ McCoy (Mother of James ‘77, Patrick ‘81, Thomas '81, Grandmother of Patrick '12 & Stephen Paul '12, Mother-in-Law of Steve Paul ‘83)Anna Mae Melady (Mother of Matthew '78, Grandmother of Matthew '08)Rita C. Nagle (Wife of Furman '55)Constantine N. Papadakis, Ph.D (2005 Greater Philadelphia Area Leadership Award Recipient)Margaret M. Randzo (Mother of Joseph '79)Lena Ray (Mother of Robert Ray '71(dec’d))Ambrogio Rocca (Grandfather of Michael '02) Ann C. Rodden (Wife of Gregory '70)Nora C. Rogers (Wife of Joseph '43)Michael Rosanova (Father of Daniel '69, Michael '71, Robert '75 & Grandfather of Michael '03)Teresa L. Salvato (Mother of Thomas '59)Joseph P. Shaw (Son of Robert ‘51) Brother Rene Sterner, F.S.C. (Former RCHS Board of Advisor)Raymond C. Tschoepe (Father of Raymond ‘71)William West (Father of Dan Garvin '86) Catherine (Pat) Zakrzewski (Mother of Robert '70, Michael '74, Joseph '75, Mark '76, Kevin '80 & Paul '87) Francis E. Zysk (Father of Francis “Bud” '77)

Our prayers are with the families and friends of the Roman community who have lost someone.

If you have lost a family member or friend and would like them added to our prayer list, please contact:

Bernadine Mahon at 215-627-5487 or [email protected]

Contributors

William J. Barras '49 Rev. Joseph W. Bongard '77 Dennis DiGiovanni '02 Rev. Ron Jakows '82 Ed Keenan '54 Joe Kiernan '43 John Pensabene John Reilly '84 Andrew Thum '09 Joe Weber '59

Editor : Steve Ziegler '04

A special thank you to the faithful Alums of Catholic High who send us their Class Notes for each issue.

Cover Photo Courtesy of Pete Nguyen'09 and Giovanni DiSalvatore '09

Another Year, Another Extraordinary Graduating Class

3 Home of the Cahillites

On June 5, 2009, the Cathedral Basilica of Ss. Peter and Paul was host to Roman’s commencement once again. After nearly a year of discussions held between the administration of Catholic High and the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, and thousands of letters from alumni that poured into the diocesan offices explaining our forty-plus year tradition, the diocese allowed our beautiful combined ceremony to continue.

The Baccalaureate Mass opened with the Salutatory Address from Thomas J. Shattuck ’09. Shattuck said to his classmates, "For the rest of our days, we share something that few people can say – we are Sons of Cahill. With this privilege comes great responsibility, because we must uphold the standard and tradition by living a true Catholic life once envisioned by Thomas E. Cahill."

Rev. Joseph Bongard ’77 celebrated the mass. His homily reminded the Cahillites who were minutes away from becoming alums that their numerous feats in life can be overshadowed by just one bad decision. He told the Class of 2009 to reflect on how and why they have transformed into men over their four years at Roman and how that transformation should prevent them from making that one bad decision. After the Mass, on behalf of the Alumni Association, President Larry Elliott ’66 presented the Loyalty Awards to this year’s recipients for their support, dedication and allegiance to Catholic High. They were:

Bill Boyle ’87, John Fruncillo, Daniel Hoban Sr. ’64, Jeffrey P. McFadden, Joseph Ochman Sr. ’49, and David Yarborough. (For the biographies of the Loyalty Award Recipients, please visit www.romancatholichs.com)

Commencement ceremonies were opened by student council president, Daniel Lieber ’09. For the second year, the Graduation Ceremony was broadcast live on the internet. Among those watching was Chris Shields '05, brother of Patrick '09. Chris is currently stationed in Iraq with the U.S. Army, but he would not let that stop him from witnessing another class of the Sons of Cahill follow in his footsteps.

Assistant Principal for Academic Affairs, Mr. Brian Conroy ’91, congratulated the Class of 2009 on earning $17,321,928 in academic scholarships. Ninety percent of the Class of 2009 will attend postsecondary institutions and six percent will enter the workforce or begin apprenticeships. Four graduates will serve our country in the United States Marine Corps, one at the Air Force Academy, and another at the United States Military Academy Prep School.

Valedictorian James McCaney ’09 delivered his address to his classmates, quoting famed track champion Steve Prefontaine, saying "To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift." McCaney went on to say, "At Broad and Vine, no one has sacrificed his individual gifts. Lack of effort is one thing that Roman has not taught us."

This attitude, instilled in the Cahillites, compelled 77% of the Class of 2009 to make a pledge to the Annual Giving fund, with the total amount of pledges reaching more than $10,000. James McCaney ’09’s words ring true for anyone who has ever completed four years at Catholic High. They are also exemplified by the recipients of the honorary diplomas given at graduation. Dr. Richard McCarron, Secretary for Catholic Education, added yet another prestigious degree to his resume in becoming an honorary member of the RCHS Class of 2009. Dr. McCarron’s work with Roman was instrumental in allowing us to continue our tradition of graduating from the Cathedral.

The other recipient of an honorary diploma was John P. “Bud” Connolly ’41, whose story brought tears to the eyes of those in the Cathedral and the Cahillites to their feet. Leaving Catholic High in his junior year to fight in Europe during WWII, John lived his entire life referring to Roman as his school, wanting nothing more than to graduated from Catholic High and ensuring that his six sons all attended Catholic school. John passed away in 1994, but his family traveled from as far as California to receive his degree.

After a memorable ceremony, the Class of 2009 marched down the aisle of the Cathedral singing the Purple and Gold, each of them with a smile on the lip and a tear in the eye.


Dear Roman Alumni,

I wanted to take a minute to thank you for both your consideration and generosity. By selecting me for a grant, you have made my high school career at Roman Catholic High School a little bit easier. With this financial assistance received in memory of Louis Marino, my family is now fortunate enough to be temporarily relieved of some money struggles that they incur. Being accepted into Roman Catholic made me feel honored because of the legacy I am now a part of. Two other members of my family attended Roman before me. Although he did not have the opportunity to graduate, my great grandfather attended this school. Also, my older brother attended Roman and had the honor of graduating a few years ago. Now, I have the great honor of attending Roman where I am working diligently to maintain high grades while I continue to grow in becoming a respectable gentleman. Once again, on behalf of my family, I want to thank the friends of Louis for giving me this generous gift that will assist me with my Roman education.

Sincerely,Andrew ’12

Calvin Garvin '10 and Paul Dehel '11, recipients of the Dan DiLella '69 Leadership Award.

Dear Alumni,

Thank you for the scholarship which you have granted me over the next four years to attend Roman Catholic. I am a member of the Class of 2012 and I know that Roman will prepare me for college. Although I cannot say with complete certainty what career I would like to pursuer after college, I am interested in the medical field. During my time at Roman, I hope to intern at a local hospital like Thomas Jefferson or Hahnemann. I thank you once again for granting me such a prestigious award. I promise you that will make the best out of my four years at Roman Catholic.

Sincerely,Corey ’12

Dear Alums,

Thank you very much for your donation toward my education. Your financial assistance has taken a burden from my parents and helped me to complete my journey through Catholic High. Because of your generosity, I was able to be a part of the great things Roman offers including Ambassadors, the ASIST Program, and Wrestling. Once again, thank you. I look forward to helping someone after I graduate just as you have helped me.

Sincerely,Bill ’09


From the Desk of the Rector

(Rev.) Joseph W. Bongard '77Rector

Thank you to all who have sponsored a transom as part of the historic restorations to our school. There is still one transom available for $10,000 for the entire window or two $5,000 sponsorships in memory of a loved one or family member.

Although the renovations to our chapel have been completed, several chairs are still available. A $250 donation enables you to memorializea chair for an alum, family member, or friend.

If you are interested in sponsoring a transom or memorializing a chapel chair, please contact Father Bongard; 215-627-1270, [email protected]

MEMORIAL OPPORTUNITIES

In watching members of the Class of 2009 process out the doors of the Cathedral Basilica after their commencement ceremony, my thoughts went back to the generations of young men who graduated from our school, so full of promiseand potential. Ready to take-on-the world, some went to college, others to the workforce and still others, to the military. Graduates have resettled all over the country, starting their own businesses, raising families, improving their communities. But no matter what path their lives would take, so many alumni have never forgotten the benefits they received as a student at RCHS. And because of this, they attempt togive back; their time, talent and treasure are offered to continue to wonderful mission of Thomas E. Cahill.

While so many other schools are experiencing decline, we can all take pride that Roman will open with one of the largest Freshmen Class’ in memory: 280 students are registered and several more are on a waiting list! Also, working with our Advisory Board & Board of Trustees, plans are being developed to increase our staff and facilities. The success of Roman Catholic is a testament to the faculty, staff, administration, and alumni who keep our school running on a daily basis.

In the Fall of 2010, we will open our doors for the 120th time. As the oldest diocesan Catholic High School in the nation, we will continue our noble mission to provide a faith-based education with high expectations for student performance and behavior.

I extend my heart-felt gratitude to all of the alums, family and friends who support our tradition of excellence; there is no school like Catholic High!

What We Would Have Like To Have Said When We Left

One who offers SacrificesAnd tends the souls of menSo enters in our daily life

As not to leave again

So molds our vital spiritSo shares our grief and joy

So comforts us with gifts of GodThat time cannot destroy

That though your days as Mentor,As Teacher, Priest, and Friend;

Would seem now to be numbered;In Truth they'll never end

For while we leave your presenceTo answer some far call

In many ways, for all our daysWe'll never leave at all

-William J. Barras '49


Two Tears for the Lady by: Ed Keenan '54

John Kirby ’37 was an easy person to get to know, but not to fully identify – unless you were family or students of Catholic High involved with the ASIST Program.

A four-year resident of Holy Family Home in Southwest Philly, John was a very well-liked man by other residents and staff, alike. He had a smile for everyone that jumped out at you beneath his Irish walking cap. For some, he even broke into song of a vintage nature. At Holy Family’s well-run institution by the Little Sisters of the Poor, there were few activities or trips John Kirby missed.

The persona projected was of a carefree, lovable older man who loved to tell stories of his life which always seemed to end in laughter. A butcher by trade, John’s whole life probably wasn’t always fun but, retrospectively, he could look back in time and find those many humorous occasions, tell others about them, and feel good about himself in his old age. John Kirby was very much a Shanachie, an “Irish story-teller.”

John’s two best friends at Holy Family Home were also Catholic High graduates – Art McArdle ’43 and Tom Schofield ’55. Tom and John played pinochle together only about three times a day. John had met his match but loved the competition.

There was another side to this fun-loving, story-telling Irishman, originally, from St. Elizabeth’s Parish in North Philadelphia. It was the more serious, caring father that he always was to his own family and the fatherly person he would become to many students from Catholic High who visited him. Of course, John was not only the father of nine but grandfather to twenty-four and great-grandfather of forty-four. He was proud of them all.

The more serious John Kirby delighted in being visited by students from “his” school. He would tell all the students that they were “remarkable” in giving up their free time to come to see him. He listened with real interest as each student projected some university they hoped to attend and identified some work role, some to include one of the professions, to which they aspired. When they shared their dreams with John, he would tell them they were “wonderful” and some of their aspirations were even “noble.”

The students came to John’s door seeing themselves as “giving” some support to this at-risk octogenarian. They would leave feeling good about themselves as John Kirby raised them up in front of other residents or staff.

Having lived through the Great Depression, John was acutely aware of the vagaries of employment in almost any field or endeavor. So, he developed a philosophy for himself that he carried throughout life. Now, in his old age, he would share that perspective with many of his young visitors. John often said to students that it is great that they have an idea in mind of what they wanted to do. He encouraged them to get as much schooling as they could in their chosen field. He also encouraged them to think about a second choice or “back-up” role for themselves so that they would not be devastated if their primary work role was taken away from them. The effects of the Great Depression were seared into his memory bank. How prescient a thought is that in the current period in which we live now as the unemployment roles grow in every area of employment?

The fun-loving, business savvy John Kirby also had an important spiritual side to him that few knew. He also had a special devotion to the Blessed Mother. John’s favorite prayer was The Memorare.


When John’s two best friends, Art and Tom, were both seriously ill, he often visited them despite his own decreasing ability to get around himself. While with them or after a visit in front of another friend, John would initiate the idea of praying for them both. He would lead the visitor in saying The Memorare just as he did when the four of them had a meal together.

John’s last few months on earth were not easy. A broken hip kept him in a hospital and a rehabilitation unit for a couple of months. Surgery on a broken kneecap and other complications would end his life here on earth just three weeks shy of his 90th birthday.

As all four Cahillites witnessed this unusual physical event, they went silent. Since all four Catholic High students and their leader had been on Kairos, a spiritual retreat, the group’s leader suggested they exit his room by sharing a special “spiritual greeting” that occurs on the retreat. All four said their goodbyes to John Kirby by placing their hands upon his head.

In a unique and memorable way, the seniors of Catholic High were ministering to the most senior member of the Roman family present in the room as he was ending his life-journey and on his way back to the Father.

Whenever Roman’s alma mater is sung again, for these four pilgrims’ from Broad Vine, the phrase “a tear in the eye” will forever have a special meaning for them.

Hurrah! Hurrah! Hurrah for John Kirby.

Four days before his death, John was visited by a friend and three students from his beloved school. John was struggling to stay conscious, his eyes continually opening and closing. The four visitors wanted to thank John for all he had given to the students of Catholic High. Together, solemnly, they intoned John Kirby’s favorite prayer: “Remember O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help or sought thy intercession, was left unaided…etc.”

When the prayerful group read these words that Thursday afternoon as John Kirby laid on his side, his eyes began to open wide and remain open. Tears welled up in his eyes. Two fell on the pillow.

Above: John Kirby '37being anointed while surrounded by the young men who cared so much about him during the ASIS T Mass in the McSherry Annex

ASIST ProgramIf you know of any Cahillites who would like a visit

from the ASIST students, or if you would like to volunteer in any way, please contact 215-627-5487


Getting to the Heart of the MatterOn October 12, 2000, Louis T. Savino, III died of an unsuspected and unexpected cardiac arrest on the soccer field. He was fifteen years old.

Every three days, a competitive athlete dies under the same circumstances. For this reason, Louis’ mother, Toni Pellegrini, and his aunt, Lorraine Sikora, founded The Louis T. Savino, III Foundation.

The mission of the Savino Foundation is to provide Automatic Electronic Defibrillators (AED) to schools that want their administrators, nurses, gym teachers and coaches to be trained in the proper procedures should a student collapse anywhere in the building.

In 2007, Roman Catholic High School contacted the Savino Foundation in an effort to make athletic and extra-curricular activities for our students safe. In 2008, the Savino Foundation provided Roman with four defibrillators - one in the cafeteria, one in the gymnasium, one in the field house at River Field, and a fourth which is transported by our Athletic Trainer, Ken Eaves.

During the spring, Toni Pellegrini and Lorraine Sikora visited Roman Catholic to tour the school and meet some of the young men whose safety has been reassured by their generosity. Kevin Ebner ’09, Dominic Dixon ’09, and Christopher Appenzeller '10 guided Toni and Lorraine through the halls of Catholic High, explaining our past while allowing them to experience our present.

We are grateful for what the Savino Foundation has done for Roman Catholic and we are happy to make them a part of the extended Roman family. The Savino Foundation was born out of tragedy, and the work of Toni Pellegrini and Lorraine Sikora to ensure the safety of our young men is the essence of charity.

Above: Kevin Ebner '09, Toni Pellegrini, Lorraine Sikora, Dominic Dixon '09 and Christopher Appenzeller '10 in front of the AED prominently displayed in the RCHS cafeteria.

Above: Lorraine Sikora and Toni Pellegrini presenting Roman Athletic Trainer, Ken Eaves, and Director of Development, Ann Vassallo, with the Louis T. Savino, III Memorial Plaque.


15th Annual Day at the Bay !Join in a great day of fun, music, food, drinks, and dancing with Roman Catholic High School Alumni & Hallahan High Alumnae

When: Sunday, August 2, 20092:00 to 7:00 P.M.

Where: Keenan's Irish Pub113 Old New Jersey Avenue

North Wildwood, New Jersey(609)-729-3344

Price: $30 in advance $35 at the door

Includes: Beer - Wine - BuffetDiscounted DrinksMusic - Featuring

"MASQUERADE" and "PADDY'S WELL"

MUST BE 21 TO ATTEND

Please detach and return this response form and return with payment to:

RCHS - Day at the Bay, 301 N. Broad St., Philadelphia, PA 19107

Name:

Yes, I will attend the 2009 Day at the Bay at Keenan's Irish Pub, August 2, 2009

Class of:Address:City: State: Zip:

Send Me: Tickets @ $30.00 each Total Enclosed: Check Enclosed:

Check is not enclosedCharge my Visa/MasterCard: #

Expiration Date: Signature:

CAHILL CUP CLASSIC CAHILL CLUB DINNER

The Cahill Club celebrated its Annual Cahill Award Dinner on Wednesday, May 29, 2009 at Keenan’s Valley View Inn.

Pictured Above Left to Right: Michael Finnegan ’75, Cahill Club President; Patrick Shields ’09, Student of the Year; Theresa Lazorko, Teacher of the Year; James Marino ’75, Distinguished Alumni Award Recipient; Alfred Price ’68, James G. McSherry ’40 Appreciation Award for Service Recipient; Joseph Reilly ’63, Thomas E. Cahill Award Recipient.

Congratulations to this year’s honorees for their loyalty, support, and love of Catholic High.

Left: Tom Leonard, Esq. '64, with Joe Barilotti, Fran Pietrini, and Dave Panichi on the course at The ACE Club in Lafayette Hill.

Thank you to all who made the Cahill Cup Classic a Success!Gold Sponsor

Dr. Richard Vassallo ’59 Cahillite Sponsors

Aegis Property GroupFluidics/Victaulic

Mainland PropertiesObermayer Rebmann Maxwell & Hippel

FoursomesBPG Properties, Ltd.

Columbus ConstructionChartwell Investment Partners

Keystone Mercy Health SystemHole Sponsors

Betz CB Richard Ellis, Inc.Dzwil Construction

Francis Cauffman ArchitectsPhelan, Hallinan & Schmieg, LLP

Ueland Junker McCauley Nicholson The Union League of Philadelphia


AROUND

Youth Work Day

Champion of Caring

Community Service

On May 12, 2009, The Union League of Philadelphia honored 280 young people from across the Delaware Valley. These students were honored for demonstrating good citizenship. Five students from Roman Catholic were recognized at this ceremony for service in their communities.

Above: Youth Work Day Good Citizenship award winners Kenny Cooper '10, Sean Patrick Kelly '10, Joseph Wolfington '10 and Luke Schragen '10

Not pictured: Kyle James Myers '10

JR. AOHOn April 15, the Jr. AOH along with

members of the Community Service Corps, served the AOH Dinner to the men of St. John's Hospice. Mr. Gerard J. Huot, Volunteer & Community Relations Coordinator at St. John's Hospice, is always grateful for the assistance the students of Roman Catholic provide.

Charles Taylor '12 has been recognized in this publication for his service in his Roxborough community and at Roman. Recently, Chuck was honored by Champions of Caring, an "organization dedicated to sensitizing, educating, and empowering young people to take active roles in improving their communities."

We congratulate Chuck on his achievement and we are happy that he is a part of Roman's Community Service Programs

Above: Community Service Corps President Matthew Woodruff '09, Vice-President Rich Helm '09, with CSC Officers Tim Tiu '10 and Jacky Lee '10. Matthew and Rich were dedicated CSC members during their 4 years at RCHS. Before their graduation, they passed their torches to Tim and Jacky at the annual CSC Commissioning Mass at the Cathedral.

At the Mass, Roman's CSC was recognized for its works of charity and Matthew was honored with the St. Timothy Award for Service.


ROMAN

Keeping the PeaceVincent Cannady '09, a member of the Roman Catholic Chorus, sang a rendition of "America the Beautiful" at a rally to stop the violence in Philadelphia. A member of St. Martin de Porres parish in North Philadelphia, he sang the patriotic song at his church and was then interviewed by the Daily News. In the article, he was quoted as saying, "It's my school, I wouldn't think of not doing it." Vincent is active around the halls of Roman and if his love for his grade school is any indication, he will be one of the faithful alums that returns to Roman regularly. In the fall, Vincent will attend the Berklee School of Music in Boston where he is sure to receive many more standing ovations.

Reaching OutIn the long standing tradition of community service at Roman Catholic, students attended the disabilities mass at the Cathedral Basilica of Ss. Peter and Paul as a part of the ASIST Program.

Left: Rev. Joseph Bongard '77 and Principal Robert O'Neill with the students of the ASIST Program. Pictured: Timothy Tiu '10, Stefan Johnson '10, Chris McCloskey '10, Dan McMenamin '10, George Perry '10, Stephen Purcell '10, Michael Schickling '10, Patrick Smith '10, Eric Swety '10

Not Pictured: Matthew Schickling '10 , Matthew Shackleton '10, Joseph D’Amico '10, Sean Kelly '10

Police Support

Above: Kevin Klatt '09 and Octavius Blount '11 along with RCHS Principal Robert O'Neill present a check in the amount of $1,500 to Steve Weiler and John Ruane FOP#5. Kevin and Octavius were instrumental in organizing the "Change for Change" Campaign among the Roman students. The $1,500 raised for the Fraternal Order of Police came from the loose change of the Cahillites that they decided to put toward a great cause.


A PROUD TRADITIONSince 1890

Left: Karen and Rosana Stasiorowiski, the wife and daughter of the late Andrew Stasiosorowiski '69 traveled from Fredericksburg, VA to see the school that was such an important part of their husband and father's life. They toured Catholic High with our ambassadors and then stopped in the Alumni Quad to admire Andrew's memorial brick. Dear Ms. Mary Desmond,

I would like to thank for sending my high school transcripts and showing me genuine support when I needed it the most. I am proud to tell you that I was accepted to both McDonough School of Business at Georgetown and the Wharton School of Business at Penn this year. I would further like to extend my sincere gratitude to the entire guidance office staff as well Mr. Monillas, Mr. Beckman, Mr. O’Neill, and Mrs. Lazorko who gave me encouragement and did not let me give up on myself. I am sure that this feat would not have been possible without your aid. I am looking forward to take advantage of this unique opportunity and move on with my life; how-ever, I will never forget what you did for me. I’ll be sure to visit Roman sometime in the near future to show my gratitude in person.

Thank you,Sergei Markov '08

Dear Father Bongard,

On Sunday March 22, my family and I were among the many volunteers to help at the Archdiocese of Philadelphia’s Mass for Persons with Disabilities, which was held at the Cathedral of Ss. Peter and Paul. While there, I had the pleasure to reconnect with Ed Keenan and work with several student volunteers from Roman Catholic High School (Story on page 11). Not surprisingly, the students were wonderful. They were respectful and attentive, readily offering assistance to all in need. I was never prouder to be an alum.

God Bless, Tom Mahon '75

Dear Father Bongard,

Many thanks to you and all the members of the Roman Catholic community for your support and presence at the funeral of Amier Grant '12. We deeply appreciate the presence of the students and staff. Please give a special thanks to the honor guard who sang the Alma Mater and carried the flag and to Amier's classmates who came to the mass.

Peace and Blessings,Father George

Pastor, St. Benedict's

On June 11, the freshman class remembered Amier Grant '12 with a mass held in his honor on the last day of classes.


Name Your Magazine!by: Steve Ziegler '04

It is my hope that several times each year, every alum of Roman Catholic High School picks up his Alumni News and is inspired by a story that reconnects him to Roman or reminds of his own high school days. However, I often wonder what makes a man lift the Alumni News from his coffee table, recline on his sofa, and read the articles. Usually, this thought is immediately followed by my thinking of what I can do to make the Alumni News even better, and more importantly, gain interest among more readers. Although I may not be able to facilitate every idea that pops into my head, I am making an attempt with the latest one.

Something is missing from the Alumni News. In fact, something has always been missing – a name! If the average person were to glance at the Roman Catholic High School Alumni News, they might think they know the audience, but they would not realize that this publication has an audience that includes the family of Roman alumni, friends of Roman Catholic High School, and the community. I would venture to guess that any information about the first diocesan high school in the country has more than a few readers.

Your vote counts! Name your alumni publication by selecting one of the names below – all of which have a Roman connection.

The Empire

The Centurion

The Vine

You Decide!

Fall, 2009

Make your vote count!

Log-on to www.rchsalumni.org to vote

If you do not have an account on the Alumni website, follow these simple instructions.

1.) Go to www.rchsalumni.org 2.) Click on First Time Login at the top of the page 3.) Enter your last name and click Next 4.) Find yourself on the list that appears* 5.) Select your name and click Next 6.) Enter your Constituent ID. Constituent ID can be found on the mailing label of this magazine above your name. 7.)Verify your Constituent ID and you will be logged in 8.) Vote!

*Any questions, problems, or concerns can be directed to Bernadine Mahon, Coordinator of Development Services at 215-627-5487 or

[email protected]


AthleticsDennis DiGiovanni '02

Athletic Director

BASEBALLCoach Joe Tremoglie ’92’s Varsity Baseball team finished 6th in the Red Division after a late surge during the second half of the season. They finished with a league record of 6-8, but won 5 of their last 7 regular season games. Key victories included a pair of regular season wins against top ranked Monsignor Bonner

and two must-wins against Cardinal O’Hara. The Cahillites won their first playoff game by beating Bonner in ten innings. The Varsity team then suffered a tough 14-13 loss in 9 innings against top ranked Archbishop Wood. The Cahillites were led by seniors Kyle Delone ’09, Sean Weber ’09, John Hildebrand ’09, Pete Dudek ’09, and Tim LeCompte ’09, who also received Second Team All-Catholic honors. Second Team All-Catholic Honors were also given to junior, power hitter Steve Herbetko ’10.LACROSSEThe Roman Catholic Lacrosse team recorded another playoff victory this season with their win against the patriots of Archbishop Carroll. Unfortunately the Cahillites couldn’t beat the always tough LaSalle Explorers in the Semi-Finals. Coach Jim Brennan ’97 knew that he had a great group of hardworking kids and he was able to harness their hard work ethic and produce another triumphant season. The team was led by First Team All-Catholics: Pat Weiler ’09, Alek Hughes ’09, Max Kroll ’10, Andrew Sabia ’12 and Alex Sabia ’09. Second Team All-Catholic honors were awarded to Pat Shields ’09 and Greg Crotty ’09. Coach Brennan and staff look forward to next season with the young group of talent they have.TENNISCoach Pat Shanahan and the Roman Catholic Tennis team had another very successful season. The team finished in second place; however they were able to claim tough playoff victories against Archbishop Carroll and St. Joseph’s Prep to earn a spot in the Catholic League Championship. Unfortunately, for the second year in a row, the Cahillites lost to the LaSalle Explorers in the PCL championship. They were led by senior Nigel Hopkinson ’09, junior Mark Verdi ’10 and sophomore sensation DeSean Fennell ’11. DeSean remains unbeaten (16-0) in two years of Catholic League tennis play. He was selected as a First Team All-Catholic and won the District 12 AAA Singles championship.OUTDOOR TRACKLed by 1st Year Coach David Robinson ’00, the Outdoor Track team turned in a very successful season. The team had its and ups and downs but could always depend on their young 4 X100 team. The foursome consisted of four freshmen: Ferguson Amo ’12, Anthony Johnson ’12, Richard Gatewood ’12 and Donnell Morris ’12. The team was so successful they were given 2nd Team All-Catholic Honors. Coach Robinson is looking forward to coaching this young group of men in the upcoming years. CREWThe Roman Catholic Crew team had another strong year under Coach Roger Ross. The team was arguably the most consistent team throughout the entire season. They won the Horvat Point Trophy, an award given to the team that accumulates the most points during the regular season. The team finished in 3rd place at the PCL championship race and had very successful performances at the City Championships, the Stotesbury Regatta, and the Scholastic Nationals. An astounding 24 members of the Roman Catholic Crew team were awarded All Catholic Honors. First team All-Catholic honorees included: Joseph Baeringer ’10, Paul Dehel ’11, Rocky Lee ’11, Avery Sheridan ’09, Scott Willis ’09, and Tyler Zachwieja ’09. Second Team All-Catholic honorees were: Robert Angeline ’09, Michael Bryan ’10, Joseph Casper ’09, Ricky Chiu ’10, Giovanni DiSalvatore ’09, Thomas Farrell ’10, Joseph Horn ’12, Jeffrey Miller ’09, Michael Shackleton ’09, Tyrese Watson ’10, Michael Wisniewski ’09, and Patrick Woodruff ’11. Third Team All-Catholic honorees were: Xavier Alexander ’10, Austin Antonelli ’12, Liam Bradley ’10, Jacky Lee ’10, Matthew Lieber ’10, and James O’Neill ’10.


A Cinderella Season RememberedIn 1943 League champions West Philadelphia, Penn Charter, Lower Merion and Roman Catholic were invited to play the Red Cross Basketball Tournament of Champions, the only one ever held. Lower Merion was also state PIAA champion. The event may have faded into Philly hoops history but is not quite forgotten. Roman’s surprise Cinderella team won it.

In a book to be published later this year, Joe Kiernan ’43 will celebrate Roman Catholic High, their 1943 Red Cross Tournament of Champions opponents, the memory of Roman’s 40 year coaching legend, Billy Markward, and the splendor of scholastic basketball. Joe can be reached at [email protected]. If you were there, he would be glad to hear from you. Above: A classic picture of the 1943

Cahillites holding the trophy from their victorious stint in the 1943 Red Cross Tournament of Champions.

REUNIONSClass of 1959 - Reunion Weekend The plans have all been finalized for a great Reunion Weekend in September to celebrate the Class of 1959’s 50th Anniversary of our graduation from RCHS. The celebration was too BIG to fit into one night ! Here’s the lineup : Friday, Sept.25th - Golf Outing at Jeffer-sonville Golf Club, Norristown, PA; Friday night Meet & Greet at Sorella Rose(at the Old Springfield Hotel) Flourtown, PA; Saturday, Sept. 26th - Dinner Dance Gala at Meadowlands CC (scene of our Senior Prom in '59) Blue Bell, PA; Sunday, Sept.27th - Mass for De-ceased Classmates at Broad & Vine followed by Tour of the school & McSherry Annex and Closing Brunch in the school cafeteria. Details will be mailed to all classmates in late June. PLAN NOW - You don’t want to miss this one !!

Reunion Calendar Sept. 24 - Class of 1954 Frankford-Torresdale Country Club Sept 25-29 - Class of 1959 October 17 - Class of 1999 Roman Catholic High School November 7 - Class of 2004 Roman Catholic High School

1959 Committee : Joe Weber, Chair; Joe Bisch, Larry Costigan, Vince Donahue, Paul Dornisch, Frank Gartland, Dennis Kelly, Chalie LaFontano, Frank Peszka, Paul Roman, Bob Smith; In Me-moriam - John Flanagan and John Hoban.

Don’t forget to check the Blog site : www.rchs1959reunion.blogspot.com


CLASS NOTES1942Vincent “Bud” Levito and his wife Florence are proud of their granddaughters, Katie Marie and Gabrielle Gioia. Katie graduated from the Culinary Institute of American in Hyde Park, NY on March 20, 2009 with an Associates Degree in Baking and Pastry with a GPA of 3.56 and she also received the Management Award. Katie is continuing her education for her Bachelor’s Degree in Hospitality. Gabrielle is an 8th grade student at Colonial Middle School. She received an award for Scholastic Ability and the Girl of the Year Award from the Junior Women’s Club of Conshohocken. 1948James Lavin and his wife, Anne, celebrated 50 years of marriage on May 11th.1969Daniel M. DiLella, President and CEO of BPG Properties, LTD. and Chairman of the RCHS Board of Advisors funded the establishment of the Daniel M. DiLella Center for Real Estate at the Villanova School of Business.1971Samuel B. Gaymon is happily retired and still living in Philadelphia. He asks that his classmates give him a call. (215)-548-26711984Daniel M. Neal retired from the United States Marine Corps. in February, 2009 after 22 years of dedicated service. David is indeed one of the few and the proud as both a Master Sergeant in the USMC. His entire story can be found on www.rchsalumni.org

1986Tim Hartung is on the Fredericksburg, VA police force and he sends greetings to all of his Cathedral ’82 and RCHS ’86 classmates. Tim can be reached at (540)-654-5730.1993Dan Lodise is the Chief of Staff for State Representative Brendan F. Boyle. Representative Boyle represents the 170th District in Harrisburg. Dan works between the local office in the Greater Northeast and Harrisburg1994Fitzgerald Gallagher and his wife, Jessica, welcomed their first child, daughter Finola Jane Gallagher into the world on April 7, 2009. 1998Michael W. Sabatino and his wife, MaryTherese welcomed their first son, Michael Anthony Sabatino into the world on January 9, 2009.1999Derrick Thompson wed Corie E. Tracy of West Hartford, CT. on July 4, 2008. They now reside in New Britain, CT. 2001Richard Smith was ordained a priest on Saturday, May 16, 2009 at the Cathedral Basilica of Ss. Peter and Paul. The next day Richard celebrated his first mass at St. John the Baptist Church in Philadelphia.2002Matthew Coyle and his wife, Janet, welcomed their first child, Morgan, in May. John Giaccobbo, a forward on the Neumann College Ice Hockey team played an instrumental role in leading the team to a victory

Above: Fr. Ron Jakows '82, Seminarian Joseph Nicotra '04, Bishop Daniel Thomas '77, Fr. Richard Smith '01, and Fr. Robert Mulligan '82 in the sacristy at St. John's Church during Father Smith's first Mass.

in the NCAA Division III “Frozen Four” championship in March, 2009. 2005B.J. Ketcheck, Guy Columbro, and Mike McFarlane led the Cabrini College lacrosse team to victory in the President’s CSAC Cup and to the second round of the NCAA tournament. B.J., Guy, and Mike played together at Roman and brought their teamwork to the Cabrini Cavaliers during their four years in college. Carmen DelMastro, a 2009 graduate of Temple University, was named the A10 baseball player of the week by the Philadelphia Daily News on March 30, 2009 with a batting average of .6502008Sergei Markov, a freshman at the University of Pennsylvania was accepted to both the McDonough School of Business at Georgetown and the Wharton School of Business at Penn this year.


Kairos retreats are offered to seniors interested in taking a four-day journey with their classmates. Roman graduates remember this journey as a time of camaraderie, sharing, healing, and trust.

The leaders of Kairos, students who have previously participated in the retreat and faculty mentors, guide the seniors by promoting discussion and involvement. Revealing personal experiences, beliefs, and worries for some is hard to accomplish, but nevertheless achievable. This revelation or sharing of thoughts and feelings is necessary in order to appreciate Kairos and benefit from it. During the retreat, the words friendship and faith are mentioned frequently. Kairos often results in the discovery of new friendships and the renewal of old ones. Besides the

The Kairos Experience by: Andrew L. Thum '09

Above: Nicholas McNamara '09, Ciaran Sontag '09, and Joe Dougherty '09 hanging out on Kairos XLV and thoroughly enjoying the grounds of the retreat house in Northampton, PA.

friendships between students, teachers, and parents there is a friendship that is explored even more. That friendship is with God, our savior and closest friend. Most people our age seem to be too busy to bother with God or even remember that He is there. However, the participants of this retreat find time for God, recalling and discerning their relationship with Him. By acknowledging His role in their daily lives, retreatants allow themselves to grow in God’s love and deepen their faith in Him. There is an ad-ditional faith that is uncovered during Kairos. That other faith is in one another. Together, students learn the concept of trust and the value of it. A faith in God and a faith in others will guide the students and leaders through life and its challenges.

In Greek, Kairos means the right or opportune moment. As seniors prepare to begin a new chapter of their lives, pursuing a college education and employment, they receive a chance to evaluate their current position in life and the part God plays in it. Students leave Kairos and take with them the message of God’s love for everyone and His never-ending gift of grace and forgiveness.

The experience of Kairos is one that is never forgotten. This brief departure from “the real world” leaves you with a sense of fulfillment and completion. I know that because of this retreat people like me have been able to restore and strengthen their relationship with God. My hope is that Kairos remains a part of the tradition and practice of Roman Catholic High School, continuing to nurture and support senior Cahillites in their quest for knowledge, friendship, and faith.

LIVE THE FOURTH!


Fides Et Scientia SocietyThe passion that you have for Roman Catholic can live on through your legacy and your participation in planned giving.

The Fides Et Scientia Society consists of Roman alumni, family, and friends who have left Roman in their wills through bequests, charitable trusts, gift annuities, or other planned gift opportunities. These resources that the young men of Roman Catholic High School depend on every single day while they are completing their education at Broad and Vine.

Let your legacy roam the halls of Catholic High forever.

Please detach and complete the form below and send it to:

Roman Catholic High School Alumni Association

Fides Et Scientia Society301 N. Broad Street

Phila, PA 19107

NAME

ADDRESS

CITY STATE ZIP

PHONE E-MAIL

YEAR Please check one of the following boxes

I have included Roman in my will and would like to be recognized as a member of the Fides Et Scientia Society

I would like more information about planned giving and the Fides Et Scientia Society

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

Fides Et Scientia SocietyBernard F. Alder’34Mary Margaret Barry*James F. Barr ’38*Donald J. Beavers ’35*Fordyce J. Bell ’44*Louis C. Biggi ’22*George J. Bohler ’31*Albert J. Bovio ’22*Henry Bradley ’27*Walter Bridgeford ’45James A. Burns ’25Claire M. Byrne*Rev. Msgr. Paul J. Cahill ’26*Robert J. Cahill, Jr. ’74Robert J. Callaghan ’26Martin F. Carey ’27*Francis A. Cole ’41*Charles P. Colgan ’45*William F. Connolly, Jr. CPA ’38Joseph A. Connor '50 *Edward J. Cooney ’25*Edgar Corkrey ’39*Aloysius J. Courtney ’22*Joseph S. Cyzio ’35*Charles J. Day ’59Daniel M. DiLella ’69Vincent DiRocco ’32*Frank J. Donlon ’52*Francis P. Donovan ’35*Joseph C. Dorsey ’38*Milan F. Dudeff ’32Joseph J. Eberwine ’29*Oswald J. Ferraris ’43*George S. Forde ’26*Joseph A. Fox ’38James M. Franey ’19*Joseph R. Gabriel ’32

Thomas Geoghan, Sr. ’41John A. Gillen, Sr. ’33*Brig. Gen. Thomas F. Gioconda, USAF(Ret.) ’66Edward M. Graham ’91*John Joseph Gray ’42*Paul A. Hart ’62Joseph A. Hindman ’26*Aloysius J. Holland ’48*Reverend Charles L. Jackson ’31*Joseph P. Jesse ’35*John P. Jungers, CPA ’50Reverend James M. Kavanagh ’25*Joseph H. Kiely ’63*James McGirr Kelly ’47*Richard A. Kenny ’18*Joseph H. Kiely ’63*F.J. Kratzinger ’37*Edward J. Landy, Jr. ’29*John J. Larkin ’33*CDR Francis J. Leonard ’25John T. Lyons ’34*Joseph J. Maksin, Sr.’46John Malloy*John C. March ’30*Nicholas E. Marchione, M.D. ’28*Fr. William T. McBride*Ms. Mary C. McGovern*James G. McSherry ’40*Hugh A. Mooney ’48Stanley J. Nanczuk ’35Frank L. O’Brien, Jr. ’27*Rev. Martin O’Halloran ’36*J. Murtha O’Hara ’41Louis J. Painter ’48Rev. Msgr. Joseph J. Pollack, J.C.D. ’39*William Priest ’27*

Charles M. Proud ’32*Nicholas J. Raftery ’32Thomas J. Reed ’35*Joseph P. Rhein *Clement A. Rice ’34Joseph G. Roddy ’52Herbert Rossenbach ’48*Leslie Schmalbach ’33*C. Robert Seider*Anne Shea*Joseph M. Shea*Mary C.T. Shea*Geo Snyder*Mary Tomasco*William H. Vincent, Esq. ’24*Reverend John M. Walsh ’33*Beatrice A. Walsh*Francis M. Walsh ’27Joseph D. Weber, Jr. ’59James F. Weiss ’25*John O. White, Jr. ’43*John A. Zawojski ’53*Josephine Eberwine *

These alums and friends have included Roman Catholic High School in their wills. If Roman Catholic High School is a beneficiary in your will and you do not see your name on this list, please fill out the form on the opposite page and return it to Roman Catholic High School or e-mail [email protected]

* Deceased

2009 Events6/30 - John Hoban '59 Memorial Golf Outing Center Square Golf Club8/2 - Day at the Bay Keenan's, North Wildwood, NJ9/24 - Class of 1954 Reunion Frankford-Torresdale Country Club9/25 to9/29 - Class of 1959 Reunion (See page 15)10/15- Greater Philadelphia Leadership Award Union League, Philadelphia, PA10/17 - Class of 1999 Reunion Roman Catholic High School11/7 - Class of 2004 Reunion Roman Catholic High School11/8 - Roman Run Lloyd Hall, Fairmount Park11/22 - Communion Breakfast Ss. Peter and Paul Cathedral/ Sheraton Hotel

2010 Events3/6 - Romauction Roman Catholic High School3/20 - Texas Hold 'Em Roman Catholic High School4/9 - SHOF Dinner Williamson's, Hatboro, PA

ALUMNI EVENTS For the Class of 201410/4 - Open House10/10 - Scholarship Entrance Test11/21 - Scholarship Entrance Test12/12 - Scholarship Entrance Test

GO GREEN! To receive your Alumni News

via e-mail, please contact [email protected] or

215-627-5487

Let Us Hear From You!Send your stories, Class Notes, comments,

questions, and anything related to Catholic High to:

Mr. Steve ZieglerDirector of Marketing

Roman Catholic High School301 N. Broad St.Phila, PA 19107

215-627-1270 ext. 146, [email protected]

Don't forget to "Name Your Magazine!" Log-on to www.rchsalumni.org and sign-up today!

Roman Catholic High School301 N. Broad StreetPhiladelphia, PA [email protected]:215-627-5487Fax: 215-627-2179

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED Non Profit Org.

U.S. Postage PaidPhiladelphia, PAPermit No. 201

Date post:	27-Mar-2016
Category:	Documents
Upload:	denise-lepera
View:	228 times
Download:	5 times

Summer 2009 Alumni News

Documents