NON-PROFIT ORG U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
SAN DIEGO, CA PERMIT NO. 663
Saints Scene April 2009
YOUR MONTHLY REPORT ON THE ST. AUGUSTINE HIGH SCHOOL EXPERIENCE
St. Augustine High School 3266 Nutmeg Street San Diego, CA 92104-5199 619-282-2184
Spring Musical Review
Photo by Herb Morgan (P-’12)
www.sahs.org
Viva Drumline—This exciting offshoot of the Saints Marching Band competes against schools in the southern California region. Pictured is Saintsman Carlos Martinez on bass guitar. More Drumline photos on Page 6.
2009 Festival of the Arts
Don’t Miss Tasty and Talented Festival of Arts & Culture, April 4
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here’s still plenty of time to mark your calendar for Saturday, April 4 to come out and enjoy Saints
Dear Parents and Friends
Unitas Veritas Caritas
The Ultimate Bailout: A need for character not cash
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fter Bear Stearns, Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, the American International Group, and Detroit’s Auto Industry many of us are asking where is the end to the federal bailout phenomenon. Is there a solution? With specific attention to the mortgage crisis, a recent New York Times editorial asserted that in part this crisis “is the result of a willful and systematic failure by the governPrincipal James Horne ment to regulate and monitor the activities of bankers, lenders, hedge funds, insurers and other market players.” I would argue that the foundation of the crisis runs deeper. The financial situation the nation finds itself in is, in part, a result of a nation with collapsing character. The United States of America, and many parts of the world for that matter, is experiencing a great absence of moral fortitude and unwavering integrity. Honesty and trustworthiness seem to have taken a backseat to greed, commission checks and performance bonuses paid to leaders of underperforming companies. In the face of desperate times it seems that many of our leaders lack a steady calm and the discipline to do the right thing. Although we are not receiving the press that Federal Bailout is as it doles out nearly a trillion dollars, the Saints community is at work on a bailout of its own. But we are not infusing cash into a troubled system; we are injecting character into a troubled world. We are, and have been, committed to developing men of character and we teach them that it is essential to attaining success. Although it seems radically simple, we teach students that their character is defined by a strong faith in God, keeping their word, taking responsibility for their actions, serving their fellow man and following the golden rule. If we were to add “exercising thrift in financial affairs” we just may have the solution that so many in our nation and world are seeking. Help us with or transformative work. Talk with your student about the importance of character.
Annual Festival of Arts & Culture. Witness the amazing talents presented by the Music, Drama, and Art Departments all for one ticket. Come for the arts and stay for the food! Parent organizers have outdone themselves with this year’s menu, an all-you-caneat cuisine smorgasbord featuring home made Italian, French, Philippine, Mexican, American, Chinese, and this is just to name a few! Upon entering the gates you will be greeted with brilliant displays of art work, ceramics, and sculpture. You then will be treated to performances by our Drama and Music Departments, including the Guitar Classes, 32nd St. Jazz Band, Jazz Guitar Ensemble, Drumline and Symphonic Band. All this is included in the family friendly price of $10 for adults and $5 for children under 11 and under. Gates open at 4:30 pm with music and dinner starting at 5 pm. Day of event tickets for the on campus festivities will be available. For more information contact: Jean Hundley Hundleys5@hotmail.com and/or Brenda Muller @saints_mom@sbcglobal. net
Easter Break
Yours in the Spirit of Catholic Education
James Horne Principal
Vol 28 no. 4
Leave April 9 Return April 20
Saints Players Present Seussical at Birch North Park Theatre
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K, maybe you don’t like green eggs and ham, but we’re positive - you’ll LOVE the musical named Suessical. The school’s talented drama troupe, Saints Players, proudly presents Seussical April 30-May 2 at 7 pm and May 3 at 2 pm. Performances will be at the Birch North Park Theatre, 2891 University Ave. Tickets are $10 per person and there’s also a very special dinner package for $45 per person at nearby Hawthorn’s Restaurant. Tickets are available online at showboxoffice.com. Enjoy your favorite stories as they come to life in this contemporary re-imagining of San Diego’s own Dr. Seuss, through Jazz and Broadway Ballad, Funk and Rhythm & Blues; this show is suitable for the child in all of us. Seussical performances represent the artistic efforts of Saints and OLP music, drama and art departments, including other Saints Community members. For more information log onto sahs.org
...The Road Together
Friendship “Before all else, those of you who come together in community live together in harmony, being of one mind and one heart on the way to God.” St. Augustine (Rule 1, 1-2) By Edwin Hearn, President St. Augustine High School
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ne of the most important elements of a Saints education is the formation of life-long friendships. Since arriving at Saints, it has been quite amazing to see the vast number of relationships found among not just the alumni, but also the alumni and the teachers. Many of the alumni do not gather just for their reunion, but get together monthly for lunch or to work on a class project. For many classes, this has been going on for years, and springs from a common experience of friendship or what in recent years is termed the “Saints Experience.” St. Augustine wrote extensively about the concept of friendship. He directly connects this notion with the stronger idea of living in Christian community. For Augustine, friendship was the intimate sharing between one human person with another which led to the experience of God. As he wrote: “I admit that I readily throw myself entirely on the love of my most intimate friends, especially when I am wearied with the world’s scandals, and I find rest in that love, free of anxiety. This is because I feel that God, upon whom I cast myself without fear, Continued on page 8.
Question & Answer Session Intersession Students Discuss Internships By Allen Aguilar (’09)
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his year at St. Augustine, school officials are trying to spice things up in the school year. During the 2008-2009 school year, the faculty has added an intersession period in between the 1st and 2nd semesters. During the entire month of January students have a chance to broaden their view of a profession, hobby, or use the ALEKS program to make up a math class. An impressive opportunity the school has been able to put together is the mass amount of internships students may choose from. Most, if not all, have some relation to the school, may it be a graduate of Saints or a parent of a Saintsman. I went around the county interviewing a few some Saintsmen and their experience during their internship. Editor’s Note: Allen Aguilar wrote this article as part of his Intersession internship at San Diego Home/Garden Magazine.
Anthony Campos Q: What was your internship? A: My internship was with Dr. Joseph Cave. He is an Endodontist, a medical/dentist practice that basically specializes in root canals. I observed about three to four root canals a day. [Root canal therapy refers to the process by which a dentist treats inner aspects of a tooth] Q: How do you like it? A: I liked it a lot. I did not know what to expect at first because I have never seen a root canal before. Dr. Cave let me drill and fill an ‘extracted’ tooth. I had fun ‘pretending’ like I was doing a real root canal. I am learning a lot. I always knew that I wanted to be a surgeon and work with my hands, but now I am leaning more and more to the field of dentistry. Q: Would you want to pursue this field? A: The more time that I spend here I the more that I have considered entering the profession of dentistry and ultimately become a specialist like Dr. Cave.
George Cairncross Q: Describe your internship? A: My internship is located in one of San Diego’s top law firms. The company firm name is ChapinWheeler LLP. I work as a file clerk organizing hearing binders for the attorneys, and when I’m fortunate Mr. Chapin the owner lets me tag along with him to mediations and such. Q: What did you enjoy doing there? A: Now that I have experienced the business of law in a different level, I feel that this type of business is one I will highly think about pursuing as I grow older and it comes down to choosing my career. I know as a fact that when I graduate college I will be enrolling in law school. Q: What did you do? A: Several things mostly filing and running errands making their jobs less stressful. Q: What was the most interesting? A: I was invited to attend mediation. It was very interesting, filled with thrill and excitement. [Mediation is defined as a dispute resolution method designed to help warring parties resolve their own dispute without going to court.] Q: Would you want to pursue this field? A: Yes, I can see myself in the future working at a firm as an attorney.
Jacob Corso Q: Describe your internship? A: It is a medical internship where I basically shadowed doctors around all day.
Conversations with Augustine An on-going question and answer dialog on the spirituality of the man who became St. Augustine
Part Seven: Love for the Poor By Fr. Bob Gavatto, O.S.A., (’55) Saints Chaplain Note from Fr. Bob – Fr. Ted Tack, an Augustinian scholar and has written a book “A Man for Our Times, St. Augustine and His Heritage” that recalls from St. Augustine’s writings answers to various questions about his life and about some of the Fr. Bob Gavotto OSA (’55) major characteristics of his spirituality. Incidentally, this book is used by the students for the unit on St. Augustine, which I give to the freshmen religion classes. It is also used for the unit on the Order of St. Augustine, which I give to the sophomore religion classes. Augustine’s greatest love was certainly for Jesus Christ. The teachings of Jesus dominated Augustine’s life after his conversion. So, we can ask Augustine: How did you show your love and concern for the poor? Augustine Answers: The Last Judgment scene in Matthew’s gospel (Ch.25) has always deeply impressed me.
Q: How did it go? A: I loved it. I think that it is a fantastic experience and would want to keep doing this internship longer if possible. Q: Have you been involved with any task with your employer? A: I have been in the operating room and watched several major surgeries, and have gone to see patients either in clinic or at the hospital with my doctor.
On that occasion Jesus stated very clearly: Whatsoever you do to the least of my brothers and sisters that you do to me! We do a lot of talking about love, but if we don’t put that love into action, what good is it? It’s empty and useless. Jesus has everything he needs, but in his little ones he is very needy. So “take care of Jesus now as he lies out in the open. Tend to him in his hunger and as he suffers from the cold; tend to him in his need as a pilgrim” [Sermon 25, 8]. We all want justice to be done, but real progress in justice is only going to be realized where there is progress in love. Otherwise we are going to find ourselves cutting corners, of just trying to fulfill the bare essentials of the law. We need to practice towards to the poor the same generosity that God practices towards us. In my community we always looked out for the poor, and when we didn’t have enough money, we appealed to the people for help. There were times when I even ordered the chalices to be melted down, in order to ransom captives or provide for some very special need of others. St. Augustine, pray for us!
Q: What was the most interesting thing you’ve been involved in? A: I watched a total knee replacement on a 300-pound man. That was a pretty amazing thing to watch, especially when it took almost three hours to complete. Q: Would you want to pursue this field? A: I’ve had a feeling of becoming a doctor for quite awhile now, and this experience only strengthens my previous goals.
The Senior Class Saintsmen cordially invite you to attend
The Annual Mother and Senior
Tribute Luncheon
held in honor of the Mothers’ support, encouragement and love at the
Marina Village Conference Center Sunday, April 26, 2009 1:00p.m. to 3:00p.m. Cost of attendance is $25.00 per person ($50.00 for mother and son) If replying in the affirmative, please remit the bottom portion of this page, as well the payment for attendance on or before April 21, 2009 by personal delivery or via first class mail to:
The Senior Class c/o Todd Igelman St. Augustine High School 3266 Nutmeg St. San Diego, CA 92104 You may direct questions, comments and/or concerns to Todd Igelman, Senior Class Moderator, by emailing tigelman@sahs.org (Directions and map included.)
Yes, my son and I will attend the Annual Mother and Senior Tribute Luncheon My son’s name is ___________________ My name is ______________________ Enclosed is (check one) ____ check or _____ cash in the amount of $_________ (Checks should be made payable to St. Augustine High School) Please submit payment and reservation form on or before April 21, 2008
Leadership Honors
-FBEȪSҙ̢̙Ҁ
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very year the local chapter of Links, Inc., presents achievement awards to high school seniors who have exhibited outstanding leadership traits in scholarship, athletic ability and talents in the arts. This year Saintsmen Matthew Brown and Kwaminique Brandon were among the 20 young men honored citywide. The college bound seniors were also featured in Burl Stiff’s society column in the Union-Tribune last month. Links, Inc. (linksinc.org) is dedicated to make a difference in the lives of people of African ancestry and of the global community. It is a nationwide service organization that works in partnership with our respective local communities to strategically identify needs and match the skills and talents of members in providing service via 54 organized chapters in the western US alone.
Thomas Pekin
Paul Cassani
Kevin Leyden
David Klueck
Peter Kerrian
John Carlo Pasco
Six Saintsmen Named Austin Scholars
S Saints Achievers—Seniors Matthew Brown and Kwaminique Brandon were named Links Achievers of 2009, a national organization that empowers young high school students to continue to college their success in community leadership, scholarship and athletic talents. Kwaminique is pictured with his mom Ruthie Brandon and sister Khadijah Brandon. Matthew is pictured [left to right], with brother Eric Brown (’06), grandpa Reverend Floyd Brown and Dad, Eric Brown.
t. Augustine High School is pleased to announce this year’s Austin Exam participants. The “Austins” are rigorous oral examinations in the fields of English, mathematics, religion, science, and social studies given to selected seniors. The senior with the highest weighted cumulative grade point average (with P.E. excluded) automatically is invited to sit for the Austins. The remaining students, normally five, are selected by the Academic Council from the top 10 percent of the graduating class. Criteria in making the final selection includes, but is not restricted to, membership in CSF for at least three semesters; number of honors or
Advanced Placement courses; grade point average; and recommendation from the Academic Council. The Austin Exam is set April 2. This year’s participants are Kevin Leyden, Paul Cassani, Peter Kerrian, John Carlo Pasco, Thomas Pekin, and David Klueck. These students will graduate as Austin Scholars, and depending on their performance during these exams, they will graduate as either “summa cum laude,” “magna cum laude,” or “cum laude.” We applaud these young men for reaching this honor and wish them good luck on this exam.—By Mr. Tom Cudal, Assistant Principal for Academics.
Birds of a Feather Best Friends Since First Grade Become Eagle Scouts
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Community, Camaraderie & Chicks
Senior “MadChaps” Make Community Service Fun
Senior MadChaps—From Left to Right: Patrick Comer, Jacob Corso, Brynmor Hughes, Russell Chapin, Taylor Folwell, Tom Pekin, Nick Yap, Nick Small, Danny Hiser, and Vince Linarelli.
Photos courtesy of the Tappen and McGlenn families of St. Mary Magdalene Parish.
County Award—ASB President Mark McRoskey (’09) was recognized recently at the 52nd Annual Awards Luncheon for the Washington-Lincoln Laurels for Leaders. This annual event is hosted by the San Diego Kiwanis Club and recognizes outstanding student leaders at city/county high schools. Left to right are: Kiwanis sponsor Mr. Sandi Hill, Mark McRoskey, and his parents, Mr./Mrs. Joe and Martha McRoskey.
enior Saintsmen Ryan Tappen and Michael McGlenn both received their Eagle Scout awards last fall. Their Eagle Scout court of Honor was recently held at St Mary Magdalene church hall. Ryan and Michael have been in scouting together since first grade when they became Tiger cubs at School of the Madeleine. They continued on together to Cub scouts and then Boy scouts, sharing many fun experiences. A friendship that both have been able to steer and support one another toward obtaining Scouting’s highest honor: Eagle Scout. Scouting (like St. Augustine High) requires students to perform many hours of community service. Ryan’s Eagle Scout project was clearing and building a trail in the native plant preserve atop Point Loma. Michael’s project consisted of building CPR back boards for Steel Canyon and St. Augustine High Schools. Michael was assisted by Boy Scout Troop 170 and also by several loyal Saintsmen. Ryan and Michael will continue on to SDSU in the fall with eyes toward careers in Medicine.
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en Saintsmen, Class of 2009, participated as “Madchaps” in the annual performances of the MADCAPS program this year. Established in 1960, Mothers And Daughters Assisting Philantropies (MADCAPS) consists of girls from 7th through 12th grade who reside in Point Loma and Mission Hills and who focus on hands-on work with local charities with this show as their annual fundraising effort. The senior MADCAPS class invites senior boys, who are friends or relatives of theirs, to join them in that venture. The “Chaps” dance with the MADCAPS as well as being featured in their own dances and antics. Last month’s madness weekend Benefit Shows, held at Correia Middle School Auditorium in Point Loma, were the culmination of several months of dance, song and gymnastic rehearsals. The enthusiastic energetic Saintsmen, whose theme was Rock and Roll, developed great camaraderie with the other 16 Madchaps who hailed from Point Loma, Cathedral Catholic and High Tech High Schools.
Ryan Tappen (is on the right in all photos) with lifelong buddy Michael McGlenn
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"SΝӅOȠ U̙ Grad Night Provides Safe and Sane Alternative Party That’s Always Fun
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raduation is just around the corner and it’s an exciting time in your seniors’ life. To add to the fun of graduation is Sober Grad Night the “Alternative Party” for Saints and OLP graduates. Graduation is the most significant event in our students’ lives and it is “party night”. Sober Grad Night provides a place for your grad to party with their fellow grads while enjoying food, activities and live entertainment in a drug and alcohol free environment. This year, Grad Night will be May 29th at Kearny Mesa Bowl, 7585 Clairemont Mesa Blvd. The price is $60 per ticket, and grads can bring one guest who must fill out a registration form and pay $60. Financial assistance is available. Registration starts at 10pm; doors close at 11 pm, and open again at 5 am. If the student is going to be late or needs to leave early, parents can make a note of it on the registration form. Once inside the grads can bowl, play video games and dance to a DJ. A strolling magician and henna tattoo parlor are all also available. Hamburgers and french fries are served after midnight. Sodas and water are available throughout the evening. Late in the evening a hypnotist entertains the grads. After the hypnotist they can dance to a live band or continue bowling followed by a raffle. Every grad receives a raffle ticket upon arrival. In the past grads have won digital cameras, lap tops, IPod nano’s and gift cards. Breakfast is served around 4:30am and then the doors open at 5am. This event is sponsored by the Austin Parent Association along with volunteers from Our Lady of Peace. Information letters and registration forms will be mailed out the beginning of April. Parents are needed to work at this event. Please contact Kathy Martin at jm11251@yahoo.com or call her at 760-845-9786 with any questions.
Seussical Poster Designed by Saintsman
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he professional looking poster advertising the upcoming performances of Saints Players Spring musical was designed by Jacob Whispell (’11). Art teacher Ms. Mickey Carson says Jacob is “an extremely gifted artist. He is very strong in generating conceptual ideas.” Jacob has expressed interest in pursuing a career in Illustration.
Bee-Minus Oh, Why Didn’t We Study the Spelling List?
O Stanley Tryka (’12)
ne of the goals of Saints Scene is to be in the classroom on occasion as the proverbial fly on the wall sharing news with parents. This time, our reporter happened in on Mrs. Winnie Arnn’s Freshman English Class. The assignment at hand was to write a descriptive paragraph.
Stanley Tryka (’12) penned the following literary offering: “Your heart starts to beat with no time between the loud thumps. Your mind races like runners on a track. Your eyes bulge as the axe descends. Only fools cannot associate these sensations with one of Mrs. Arnn’s suspenseful spelling bees. Line up! Your anxiety grows as she arranges you in order. Fear crawls through the line as it becomes another unlucky man’s turn. As more students misspell words, the line in front of you shrinks. No hope for you to succeed, for you didn’t study the spelling list! One destined student will surpass the others and grasp glory as the miserable few suffer in his glow of supremacy.”
St. Augustine High School
College Counseling News Important Dates:
Senior Class of
2009
Graduation Day Activities
Friday, May 29 9 AM
Baccalaureate Mass
10:30 AM
Baccalaureate Brunch
7 Pm
Graduation Ceremony
10 Pm
Grad Night Entertainment Party Ticket sales for the brunch and sober grad night will be posted
SAT Test Dates: • May 2, 2009 • June 6, 2009
ACT Test Dates: • June 13, 2009
College Counselors: Grade 12: Ms. Nancy Caine ncaine@sahs.org Grade 11: Dr. Gerald Rey jrey@sahs.org Grade 10: Mrs. Jenny Walsh jwalsh@sahs.org Grade 9: Mr. Pat Healy phealy@sahs.org
Visit Saints College Counseling website often for test dates, scholarship info, college choices, financial aid, test prep, and special links to various sites. Access it from sahs.org home page under Quick Links or General Information.
Ms. Nancy Caine Director of College Counseling Email: ncaine@sahs.org Phone: (619) 282-2184 ext.
U̙Ⱥ 1ǑҿJΥ Anti Litter Team
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squad of motivated Saintsmen from the class of 2010 volunteered to help erase graffiti from the neighborhoods surrounding the school. These hard working Juniors are part of a remarkable student body that get involved in all facets of community service. Let’s face it, removing graffiti is a real thankless job, but the job had to be done and our Saintsmen stepped up and did the job.
Community Crusaders—Saints Underclassmen tackle community graffiti removal project. (Clockwise from upper left): That’s Nolan Alisasis (’11) giving a step up to Memo Hernandez (’10) during the school’s recent graffiti removal outing; the entire crew shows up for work; Carlos Brambila (’10) (left) and Adrian Juarez (’10) clean up a utility pole and so do Nolan (left) and Memo.
From Mom to Prom Busy time of year for ASB Events By Miguel Acosta ASB Commissioner of Community Relations
Get ready to join the wild and wacky world of Dr. Seuss! The Saints Players will be performing the musical
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reshmen and sophomores, this year’s MORP dance for underclassmen will be held in the gym on Saturday, May 9 from 7 – 10 p.m. This dance is for Saints and OLP freshmen and sophomores only. This is a schedule change from the calendar date of May 8 in order to accommodate the varsity baseball team’s exhibition game against Cathedral Catholic at Petco Park. Any questions see the freshman or sophomore class officers. The senior class has several end-of-the-year events coming up. All questions should be directed to senior class officers or the moderators, Mr. Igelman and Mrs. Dickerson. • Disneyland Grad Night: This year, there are two Disneyland Grad Nite packages available. Sign-ups for the Blast Off package are currently underway and will be open to the first 100 people to sign up. The Blast Off package is new to Saints and it includes 2 more hours than the regular Disneyland package and the ability to go to California Adventure, plus a meal voucher. Disneyland’s regular Grad Nite package will have sign ups open until the day before (May 14). The Blast Off package will be $100 and the regular Grad Nite package will be $70. • Senior Prom: Prom this year will be May 16, from 7 p.m. to midnight at the La Jolla Marriott. Prom bids will be on sale during the month of April for $120 per couple or $60 per person. Registration will end May 11. • Mother Senior Luncheon: Tickets to the Mother Senior Luncheon are currently available from Mr. Igelman. This traditional mother-senior event will be at held at Marina Village on Sunday, April 26. Tickets can be purchased until April 21. Cost is $25 per mother-senior.
April 30th, May 1st, 2nd-7pm and May 3rd- 2pm at the
Birch North Park Theatre 2891 University Avenue
Special appearances by some of our talented Saints teachers will add to the crazy and zany world of Horton and the gang! Tickets may be purchased on-line at ShowBoxOffice.com For more information log onto sahs.org
Photography by Herb Morgan, Saints Parent/Class 2012
Viva Drumline!
[Clockwise from upper left]: Michael Phillips (‘11); unidentified, Spencer Morgan (‘12) and Ivan Ferriera (‘11); Joseph Gutierez (‘09) and far left, Peter Kerrian (‘09), David Vargas (‘11) and Daniel Ramirez (‘12), right.
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he drumline is shown here in preparation for a competition held recently at Eleanor Roosevelt High in Corona, CA. What is drumline? A musical ensemble consisting of marching percussion (snares, tneor, basses and cybals); mallet percussion (xylophone and marimba) and a rhythm section
(guitar, piano, bass and drum set). They perform a custom show with music and marching similar to Saints Marching Band, except in a gym as opposed to a football field. The next Saints drumline show (and only one in San Diego County) is Saturday, April 18 at Mission Hills High in San Marcos.
SAINTS/OLP GRAD NIGHT 2009 TICKETS $60 Grad Night is an all night party for the class of 2009. It is an opportunity for students to celebrate their graduation in style, and for parents to make sure graduates enjoy a safe and sober celebration. Don’t let your student miss out on this once in a lifetime party! Ticket includes bowling, entertainment, raffle prizes, dancing, food and lots more!
Place: Kearny Mesa Bowl Date: May 29, 2009 Time: 10pm – 5am Tickets: $60 Per Student Information letters and registration forms will be mailed out early April. For Questions regarding raffle prize donations, parent volunteering or the event itself, please email Kathy Martin at jm11251@yahoo.com or call her 760-845-9786
Blog of an Augustinian Volunteer in South Africa Part 3: Hello, from St. Theresa’s Home for Boys By Jenn DePoy
Editor’s Note: At the end of the 2008 school year, Saints Director of Christian Ministry Jenn DePoy announced her resignation in order to pursue her calling to be an Augustinian Volunteer in needy region of South Africa. Recently, Jenn sent her blog to school president Edwin Hearn and others to share her day to day experiences. Below is an excerpt from Jenn’s Blog called “Visit to the Clinic.” To view her latest blog go to www.jenndepoyinsouthafrica.blogspot.com Auntie Jenn’s Dudes--We’ve now started at our new placement on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons. Alex, Katie and I are working at St. Theresa’s Home for Boys closer to Durban. This is an “orphanage” for boys which was started by the Augustinian Sisters in 1925. They house a good number of boys who have either been orphaned, abandoned, removed from homes or that are unable to live with their families for one reason or another. The boys are divided up into cottages (by age) and have 2 full-time “Aunties” that live with them and alternate weeks. I was placed in cottage 3 and I absolutely LOVE IT. The boys are so sweet and already I have formed bonds with them. Unfortunately, I don’t remember these long, complicated Zulu names yet...so I’ll do as I did at Saints, call all the boys “buddy or dude or sir or superman.” It’s worked well so far. My boys are around 8-11 years old. They are so great and just love it when I arrive. They call me Auntie Jenn which never gets old. They are, for the most part, behind for their age in school and in need of structured help and support. However, with 10-12 boys, it’s not that easy to find time, hands, discipline and words enough to help them all. It’s been trial and error so far. When I arrive, we usually play and they give me some nice hugs. Then, I ask who has homework and they all shout “NOT MEEEEEEEEE.” Once I finally calm them down, they all need homework and lose focus quickly. Many times, they don’t have any assignment or they don’t know how to read the paragraph they are supposed to answer questions about. Much of the work that needs to be done there would entail going back to kindergarten level and working on sounds and learning how to read. Unfortunately, I only have 2 hours each time...it’s a tall order, but the boys have already stolen my heart. They are very interested in where I’m from and what I like or don’t like. They are obsessed with Obama and love when I talk to them about him. They also are enthralled each time I talk about the amount of snow Vermont gets. Their eyes are huge as they imagine how cold and wet that much snow must be. I am so glad to be working at St. Theresa’s with the kids because they are so desperate for love and attention. It’s nice to see their smiling faces and remember that there is so much hope in this world. I’m going to take pictures soon
Saints Gear Hours For Spring Saints Merchandise is now available for purchase on campus: Mondays (except holidays) 9:30 am to 2:30 pm and (new) Tuesdays 6 pm to 7 pm.
Future Bright for Saints Wrestlers
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he word is out in wresting circles that although St. Augustine High is not one of the traditional powerhouses in the county, one thing is for sure: no one considers a meet with Saints a walk in the park. Saints wrestlers work hard and possess a team discipline that will eventually push them to the top. Also, the best wrestlers in the school are mainly underclassmen, which right there is positive news for next year and beyond. Varsity did well at the recent CIF Wrestling Championships. Many medals and top ten finishes were won. Medaling at the varsity level were: • Jeffrey Eaker (’11) - 130-pound division - 3rd place • Matt Howder (’10) - 171-lbs. - 4th place • Sebastian Revels (’11) - 103-lbs. - 5th place • Paul Villard (’09) - 189-lbs. - 5th place • Mike Romero (’09) – 215-lbs. - 5th place Also representing Saints at the CIF meet were • Chase Minos (’11) - 112-lbs. • Ryan Walsh (’11) - 135-lbs. • Gerard Shen (’12) - 140-lbs.
Frosh Wrestlers & Coaches—[top row, left to right], Coach Jessica Umpingco, Coach Anthony Umpingco, Thomas Pettengill, Pharaoh Graham, Coach Don Graham. [front row, l-r): Jacob Thielemann, Gerard Shen, Trevor Manns and Thomas Mezzacappa
Champion Pharaoh—Saints Freshman wrestler Pharaoh Graham stands proudly atop the victor’s platform at ceremonies following the wrap-up of the recent San Diego County Wrestling Championships. Pharaoh pinned all four of his opponents to earn his first place medal.
Speaking of the future, Saints Freshman Wrestling Team member Pharaoh Graham captured the first place medal at the recent San Diego County Wrestling Championships. He wrestled four times in the County frosh meet in the heavyweight division and came away with four victories pinning all opponents. In a semi-final match, Pharaoh lost one of his contact lenses. Undaunted, he continued wresting without it,
WHERE IN THE WORLD?
but when he eventually threw his opponent to the mat, he saw his contact lens on the mat next to him. Thinking quickly, he held down his foe with one arm, while he picked up his contact with his free hand. He held on to the lens until the match was over and he was declared the winner. Parents in the stands captured the Pharaoh and the missing contact on video. So far, it’s the hit video of the season among the wrestling crowd at Saints.
Alum Language Majors Sought
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he Foreign language Department is interested in hearing from alumni regarding their progress in their language studies at the university level. The department is interested in creating a Wall of Fame of our students that have studied abroad and/or majored or minored in Spanish, French or Latin. Please send your emails and photos to Bill Davis at bdavis@sahs.org. We hope to hear from you soon.
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Last summer, Saints alum Michael Shess (’05) visited Almudena Cathedral in Madrid as part of a San Jose State Spanish Class in Spain. Shess is a Spanish and Communications Major. He will spend the 2009-10 year in Madrid to complete his degree. He is posed under a statue of Pope John Paul II.
Planet Saintsmen: A continuing photo travel series Almudena Cathedral in Madrid
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he site on which Almudena Cathedral now stands was originally occupied by Madrid’s first mosque, then by a church dedicated to one of Madrid’s patron saints, Santa MarĂa de la Almudena. Plans for a grand new church in Madrid began in the 16th century after King Philip II made it the capital of Spain. But construction was constantly postponed due to various political issues and opposition from the powerful archdiocese of Toledo. Finally, in 1868, Madrid received permission from the archbishop of Toledo to construct a new church dedicated to the Virgin of Almudena. Construction began in 1883 based on a Neo-Gothic design. The first part to be completed was the crypt, which today still retains the 16th-century image of Madrid’s patroness the Virgen de la Almudena. A year later, in 1884, Pope Leo XIII created the Diocese of Madrid, giving Madrid a bishop and raising the status of the new Almudena church to a cathedral. The building plans were updated to reflect the elevated status of the building. Construction on the cathedral progressed slowly and came to a complete halt during the civil war of the 1930s. The process began again in 1944, when a new architect took over, introducing a Neoclassical style that would match the Royal Palace next door. Almudena Cathedral was completed in 1993 and consecrated in person by Pope John Paul II that same year.
Sunday, July 19th, 2009 6:00 p.m.
Gold Circle - $75, Section A - $65, Section B - $55 Offer valid until July 6th Starring the legendary Topol as Tevye
Sunday, August 9th, 2009 6:30 p.m. Includes a no-host pre-show reception 5:00-6:00- Ticket Required Gold Circle - $ 150, Section A - $85, Section B -$ 65, Section C - $50 Offer valid until April 30th
Sunday, September 13th, 2009 6:00 p.m. Gold Circle-$75, Section A $65, Section B - $55 Offer valid until August 13th
Sunday, November 1st, 2009 6:30 p.m. Includes a no-host pre show reception 5:00-6:00 – Ticket Required Early Bird Prices available until April 30th Gold Circle - $150, Section A - $85, Section B- $60, Section C - $40 Regular prices valid until October 1st Gold Circle - $150, Section A - $90, Section B - $65, Section C - $45
To Purchase online simply log onto: http//www.ticketthing.com/broadwaysd/catalog/index.php?cPath=58 and click on the Saints icon. Please enter the exclusive password (case sensitive): ‘saints’ (all lower case) where noted. Choose the performance and the number of tickets you wish to purchase, order reception tickets if applicable, pay by credit card and you’re done! Your tickets will be mailed to you. A portion of each ticket sold is donated to the SAHS Fine Arts Department. For more information please call Helen Kerrian (858) 679-8539 or Debbie Torgeson (619) 265-8175. Although specific seat locations cannot be identified in advance, you will automatically be assigned the best available seats within the group block reserved. Best efforts will be made to honor any additional request, but cannot be guaranteed. Please email onlinegrouptix@broadwaysd.com with any questions or problems
Festival of Arts and Culture Saturday, April 4, 2009 4:30 pm The Austin Parents Association is pleased to announce the
2009 Celebration of Saints’ Fine Arts Join us for one of the most entertaining and inspirational evenings of the school year. Saints’ Art, Music, Drama and an International Menu of foods are all on display to delight your senses.
Contact Mrs. Jean Hundley with your special appetizer, salad, entree or dessert.
President’s Letter (Continued from page 1)
and in whom I find secure rest, is present there. In this security of mine, I do not fear the uncertainty of tomorrow and of human weakness. What ideas and thoughts I entrust to a human being who is full of Christian charity, and has become for me a faithful friend, I do not entrust to a human being, Edwin J. Hearn, Jr. but to God, in whom this person President St. Augustine High School abides, and who made him or her a faithful friend.” This belief of shared experience stands at the core of the Saints Experience and can readily be observed on our campus. The importance of young men sharing friendship during their transformative high school years is a powerful antidote for the pervasive feelings of isolation and separateness that are often the experience of post-modern adolescent culture. Research tells us that friendship during the high school years can be more intense than relationships later in life. According to a 2006 study in the journal of American Sociological Review, since at least 1985,
Saints Scene Your monthly report on the St. Augustine High School Experience
Swim Team Season Underway
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he 2008 season ended with Saints posting the top CIF Swim team finish in school history. The 2009 Swimming and diving season has begun with an exciting win against Coronado. You can get schedules, stats, and follow the team online by accessing the team website from SAHS.org/ Athletics/Swim or online at www.eteamz.com/olpswim Come out and cheer on the team at these upcoming meets: • Tuesday 4/14 vs Scripps Ranch at Hour Glass Pool - This is also a Diving Competition 3pm • Thursday 4/23 vs Clairemont at Home, Mission Valley YMCA, 3pm • Thursday 4/30 vs Serra at Home in the Mission Valley YMCA, 3pm Any questions about Saints Swimming and Diving, including how team parents can earn parent involvement hours by helping out at the meets with lane timing, photos and banquet planning, should contact Coach Kevin Manley, kmanley@sahs.org
Happening in the ‘Hood Community Events of Interest in North Park
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intage Home Tour—American Bungalow magazine has called North Park one of the largest inventories of vintage homes in the nation (credit our climate). See more than 30 homes (exteriors only) as part of a docent guided tour of North Park’s historical Dryden District. Sponsored by the North Park Historical Society, the tour is April 18 beginning at 9 am. Cost is $10 per person and the tour will last about an hour. David O. Dryden was a master builder, who designed and built many of San Diego/North Park’s historically significant Arts & Crafts era homes. Ticket info: info@northparkhistory.org or call Katherine Hon at 619-294-8990.
Americans are thought to be suffering a loss in the quality and quantity of close friendships. The study states 25 percent of Americans have no close confidants, and the average total number of confidants per citizen has dropped from four to two. We also know there is a link between fewer friendships (especially in quality) and the psychological and physiological regression of a person’s life. Friendship is a rich blessing from God; people with friends are wealthy beyond all else. I suspect that most people do not experience life-long friendship in the manner of Saintsmen and their parents. While depression and detachment for young men is widespread, students at Saints find friendship in rich abundance.
It is interesting to contemplate St. Augustine’s insights into the human condition and our ability to discover God when we openly and intimately share our lives with one another. My experience tells me that our students are exposed to this same notion during the many activities which shape each year at Saints. While it takes a lifetime to understand the reality of Augustine’s notion that God abides in each of us through the unity we share “of one mind and one heart,” your sons’ years at Saints are the critical stepping point for experiencing the loving presence of God. Friendship is the common thread, which binds our community together. For Saintsmen, friendship is for a lifetime.
The Mission of St. Augustine High School
Have you Thought About Saints in Your Will or Trust?
Our mission is to provide a Catholic liberal arts education for young men in an environment that promotes the development of mind, heart and body in the Augustinian tradition. By helping to form loving disciples of Jesus Christ we communicate to the world the gospel values of community, truth and love.
If not, a simple codicil or amendment to your estate plan can benefit future Saintsmen through our endowment fund. When naming the school as beneficiary, please direct your attorney to use the legal name of the school: St. Augustine’s School of San Diego. If you would like further information, please contact Mr. Ed Hearn at (619) 764-5517.
Publisher: Edwin J. Hearn, Jr. Saints President Editor-in-Chief: James Horne Saints Principal Senior Editor: Steve Chipp (’68), Alumni Director Managing Editor: Thomas Shess, Alum Parent (’05) Tomshess@aol.com Art Director: Carol Sherwood Chief Photographer: Ernie Torgeson, Alum Parent (’08)
Circulation Director: Casey Callery, Associate Director of Advancement Austin Parents Assn. Editor: Annette Fleming Editor Emeritus: John D. Keller O.S.A. (’55) Correction Policy While every effort is made to be accurate, we occasionally err. We do apologize to those impacted and kindly ask that you notify the Managing Editor so we may choose to publish corrections or amplifications in future issues.