For sponsorship information contact mdemola@belenjesuit.org
Special thanks to: Cres Ruiz, Javier Mariscal, Jose Lopez Varela, and Peter Montadas
Rafael G. Villoldo
Co-Business Manager
Manolo J. Diaz Staff
Alexandre M. Rico Staff
Alejandro Villasuso Art Editor
Barney E. Flores Staff
Eduardo Cepero Staff
Victor C. Gilpin Staff
Mr. Ignacio Font Adviser
Co-Editor-InChief
Eduardo Cepero Staff
Victor C. Gilpin Staff
Mr. Ignacio Font Adviser
Alfredo F. Fernandez Co-Copy Editor
GabrielS Jacobson Staff '·'
David P. Hernandez Co-Business Manager
Fernando Goudie Staff
James A. Pader Co-Copy Editor
Francisco J Quintana Staff
According to the majority: of t e faculty, this year's senior class is one o f. , i e , e best ever. Their friendships are endless and their memories everlasting, specially t he ti . s !ii3 t e:t e $enior Encounter.
Throughout the course of history there's one ele- ' ment which has been the signature of mighty empires-unity. The idea of , the whole identified as one is the driving force by which a mere state becomes a tljlighty empire. It is for the lack of this very element that such powerful empires like Rome have fallen and become a page in the annels of history. It was Abraham Lincoln who stated ''A house divided against itself cannot stand". Together the world is our oyster and alone we crumble and fall.
photo by Robert Rico
photo by Mr. Mantecon T
ED •••
We are each individuals like the fibers of a rope, united un der one cause , one goaL '' Men for others" Unlik e the mighty empires of ol d, who rose and fell, we stand strong and proud We are united not only in a name but in a history and in an ideal. We live not to be glorified but to serve. We look not to establish an empire of wealth but one of love, in this we are united. Together we stand, dispersed we shall fall.
Alfredo
Fernandez
least once a month and Mass during ho s-- held everyday in order to keep students united w l h God. Marcelino Garcia, S.J. and 1c r: lfl e z, S.J. celebrate Lent in unison wit tfi ;t a y .
photo by Robert Rico
Not only did the Varsity Soccer team overcome all odds by defeating the st 9 ' fil Umber one team in the District Champi 0 f.li{,9 ey then went on to beat Pace in a Regional Quarterfinal which advanced them o a egk;) ,"e ifinal. Together through lots of !f1 j:a everance they finished with the gr a t est season in Belen history.
photo by Carlos Ruiz
Regardless of one's academic performance, students have always known how to take time off of eir busy, or not so busy, schedules. Many have found school teams as their form of recreation. Others may participate in one of many bands, or just simply go out with their friends or a date. The fact of the matter is that after the large amounts of work has been complet, students make use of time which they have ired. Consequently, the time management skills acquired from this experience certainly have, and will continue to, help us in preparing for their future in the "real world".
by Frank Quintana
lOOt
Birt
On July 26, 1996 Miami celebrated its lOOth birthday at Biscayne Bay. For many, it was a wonderful celebration , j for thers, it was a regular day at the office. This was a day for all cultures to unite and forget all their differences to ,how the rest of the world how beau tiful Miami really is. Seth Bramson, wh o was responsible for the classical train exhibit, said, '' I cannot believe that all o the youth came out to show their lo"\Xe for Miami.'' This event is one th at will e remembered for many years to come.
This was the cake that was used to celebrate Miami's 1OOth birthday. Belen junior Ivan Vich went around the cake counting the number of candles it had Ivan said, "I counted exactly 100 candles, which is actually kind of funny "
photo by Michael Perez.
Many of the people at the celebration sat under the palm trees to get away from the extreme heat that day. Since the people were next to the bay, they could catch a good breeze.
is
This is the birthday card they had at the celebration that people could sign so that they could be remembered .
A worker from the Florida East Coast Highway Co . volunteered to work during the festivities greeting people as they went to see the inside of the old fashioned trains.
This is a statue of Claude Pepper (Democrat). He made a huge impact on this state as a senator. There is also a school dedicated to him for his hard work and committment to this grand city.
photo by Michael Perez
This
one of the few original presentations of a United States train.
photo by Michael Perez
photo by Ivan J. Vich
photo by Michael Perez.
photo by Michael Perez
Since the l920's the American society has shared a love affair with their automobile. Belen stu dents are no exception to this rule. We share an obsession for iron. The need for speed appeals to our mo st primitive instincts. There is no sensation that can be compared to that of tra veling diDwn the autobon at high sp e eds with the wi d whipping through your hair in an Italian sports car. We share an appreciation fo li a finely engineeretl machine from the el egance and precisi on o f a Mercedes to the style of the Porshe Baxter. Man h a s a lo ve for the combination of chance.
If you want to be noticed, make noise. What better way to attract attention than with Manolo Diaz's flo-master.
Rugged, tough with all the comforts of a luxury car, you'll never see Senior Michael Perez driving a r o u n d i n d i scomfort.
Joey Souto travels to school in this years most popular sports utility vehicle, the Ford Explorer.
Alfred Fernandez
photo by Michael Perez
photo by Michael Perez
photo by Michael Perez
"Real Wranglers have round headlights" This year Jeep Wrangler returned to the traditional round lights instead of the square ones.
photo by Michael Perez
Think it's loud enuogh? Junior Colin Bowe is living large with his two 15inch Kicker Soloberic bass speakers
photo by Michael Perez
" A love for the classics " Mouricio Coli travels in style with
George Diaz "A Bulls fan" as displayed on Jeep Grand Cherokee Sorry George they lost to the Heat Wed April 16, 102 to 92
Carlos Rice travels to school in his German dream machine, the BMW 315i known for its ingenuity.
photo by Michael Perez
his 1961 Chevy Bel Air.
photo by Michael Perez
photo by Michael Perez
themselves by going on a to Europe some teachers. Juan Carlos Rasco, a student who went o n the trip said, "I had a great time on the trip and also learned alot as well."
Some other students decided to use their su mmer differently, such as the twenty-two football players who went to a camp in Georgia, or the four soccer players that w ent to Spain to practice with a professional club team. These examples of hard work ethics are what makes our Belen athletes differen t from all the other athletes in High School. "The fo otball camp we attended this summer gave us a chance to improve our skills and also show off our talents to college scouts ," sa id Senior Aldo Calderin.
While these other students decided to tak e advantage of their summer break, others just took the summer laid back and tools. it easy by going to the beach, maybe hi t the weight roam e\lely once in a while, or simply just hanging out at the local pool to pick up some babes. But while the se students slacked off, some other students had to work the whole sum-
J er to pay off their cars or just to have a little extra cash. If it was JUst wor ·og for a relative or your local pharmacy, these stud nts took full advantage Qf.tbeir summer break.
Yearbook advisor Ignacio Font and Co-Editor and Chie f Robert Zurita attended a . ye arboo k seminar in St. Petersburg from June 23 to the 26 Also in att e ndance were CoEditor Mike Perez, Barney Flore s, and Robert Rico. o by Robert Rico
Cross Country runners take time to rest from their rugged and tough training in the mounta ins of North Carolina by posing for a picture.
photo by Davy Croquet
Charles Cleveland and the Belen students stop for a quick photograph in front of the Arch of Triumph while stopping through Paris, France.
photo by Brian Wentzel
The Belen students pose in front of the Eifle Tower while passing through France. "I had a great time traveling through Europe and I even got to learn a few things/ ' said sophomore Juan C. Rasco photo by Charles Cleveland
Cross Country members Jorge Solum, Jose Rodriguez-Torres, George Bustamante, and Mikel Llanes rip through white water rapids on their day off from training in North Carolina. The team spent two weeks in North Carolina preparing for the upcoming season in which they will defend their State Championship.
photo by Ivan Santa-Cruz
A Sensation
BeCen 11 Wo(verine'' Summer Camp
As the 1996-1997 school year came to an end and students ranging from elementary to high school anxiously waited to get out of class, there was a school in our city that never closed its doors for the summer. for 180 days from September to June, Belen was an institution of higher education that in our community excelled in winning awards and h aving a positive impact with whomever they came in contact with, but when these intellectual minds were put to rest, a special part of the school opened up for all boys and girls ranging from 6 year old ' little tikes' to 14 year old teenagers. This part is called Belen "WOLVERINE" Summer camp. Managed under the guidance of Carlos Barquin, Miriam Cambo-Martinez and a fantastic staff of assistant directors Richard Stuart and Jose Roca, the summer camp
Warning: You may be see ing things!
reached a record setting capacity of an estimated 1200 hyperactive campers. But 1200 campers is a mammoth size for a summer camp, so a caring staff of 150 counselors was hired to, not only watch the campers, but have an enjoyable time doing so by keeping them busy with games on the immense campus of Belen using all facilities to their fullest
As one excited 7 year old camper put it, "Belen Summer Camp is the best, I have an awesome time here." So when people ask what type of school is Belen? We can say that Belen is not only where achievements in the classroom is priority number one, but also a place were kids of all ages come to spend the days of summer to have a great time.
Barney Flores
This group of campers take a quick break from their hectic summer camp activities to show that they are really having a blast at camp.
"The Daily Grind," sometimes being a counselor is not everything you can expect as shown here by Senior Counselor Frankie Ruiz. But in the end the rewards are great Also being a camper can be scary getting used to. A new environment plus new friends to make along the way, and the fact that for the whole summer you are going to have an ex citing time spending your days at
BELEN SUMMER CAMP.
Sasha Sanchez, former camper and first year counselor (C.I.T.) shows that caring is the most important aspect of working at Belen
Taking full advantage of all facilities, Eddie Acosta and Jose Fernandez have a great time playing street hockey with their campers.
All photography work by Steve Giralt. Thanks "Cozy" for all the pictures Summer Camp
1 s no tne nerd ot s u en s rapidly evacuate their classes to take on their afterschool activities. An en o rmous amount of clubs are offered which students the ubs with over 200
cally inclined soon as are not i each ot and the go to gam nasium is also I players on the fi floor a a o upied by bodybuilders on the second floor.
Other students go to the library to start their homework while others have jobs afterschool. All in all everyone has something to do after 2:45.
While pumping up his physique , junior Gabriel Masvidal struggles to max out at 90 lbs
One of Key Club's many activities to help others is the C.R.E.S .T. project. Sophomore George Valle tutors one of St. Mary's students.
photo by Gaby Jacobson
Playing a friendly game of tag football, Danny Bouza does what many students do after class- let off some steam.
photo by Mike Perez Stud
The best means of transportation to sports games is Be len ' s Fan Bus. Along with football fans' Danny Milian, Chris Cleveland , Raul Montenegro, Richard Ashenoff, and Gus Sardina, travel the cheerlead e rs after another victorious day.
photo by Gaby Jacobson
Some students enjoy a good book, others enjoy a good basketball game while waiting for their rides home
photo by Gaby Jacobson
Se nior Marcos Macau unwi nds a t t he beach after a long week o f scho ol Ma rc os is currently ranked in the t op fiv e in the A V :P vo ll eyball to ur.
Belen students use their time wisely afterschool by studying and working on their homework
photo
by
Robert Zurita
Ke y Club me m b ers gather t o gether in a meeting to disc uss future pro j ec t s a n d t he success of current projects
Sophomores Raul Morin, Alex Sedeno , and Herbert Parets are never too busy to help out Beatriz Jimenez . photo by Ivan Vich
After long hours of af t ers c ho ol rehear s al, senio r s D a v id Moran, Jo se Ga rcia, M arcos Macau (be hind Joe) an d · Armando Cerverq display th ei r mu si cal ta lents at the To mbola ' s C afe Paris . photo by Carl os Ru iz
Beyond Today
Change is the catalyst resulting in man's perfection or his greatest flaws. Change is inevitable, and to remain stagnant would be an equivalent to death. As the world around us changes so must we. In the past year Belen has been diligently working in order to earn its well-deserved and long overdue accreditation. Among some of the more notable features added to our fine establishment are the gym and other athletic facilities.
In three days we enchanted the accreditation committee with our professional atmosphere and presentation of our subject matters. Features such as the much loathed uniforms and other last minute touches, such as the tile in the bathroom and stairs, enforced the already attained respectful demeanor of our school. Although some changes were long overdue, such as the new cafeteria service, most were done for consideration of the students and for this we extend our gratitude to Father Marcelino and all other staff or personnel who worked so hard for us.
Alfred Fernandez
Father Marcelino Garcia, S.J. places dirt on the time capsule during the ground breaking ceremony The new building will house 10 new classrooms, an addition to the existing cafeteria and an executive lunch room.
photo by Barney Flores
Robert Riley, Eddie Canto and Mike Men a sit silently with pensive expressions on their faces as they listen to the acreditor's many comments.
photo by Robert Rico
Student Life
Out with the old and in with the new. Here the main office is being cleaned out for a light face lift.
Students peruse a wide variety of selections in the newly improved menu.
IA victorious moment for the speech and drama class as they come to the end of an outstanding preformance in the newly remodeled auditorium
photo by Robert Rico
· Yum Yum! Mmmmmmmmm! Fooooood! Sammy Escudero enjoys the ' vast selection of foods available at the new salad bar.
photo by Gaby Jacobson
photo by Gaby Jacobson
photo by Robert Rico
Alex Rico
Fr. Victor Hernandez, S.J. , places the ashes on senior Danny Rodriguez on Ash Wednesday.
Fr. Fransisco Lemus, S.J., listens intently as senior Luis Patino asks forgiveness for his sins
All photos by Robert Rico Student Life
Armando Rodriguez contemplates during the Eucharistic Procession.
(From left to right) Seniors Tony
and
Campus Ministry consisting of (from left to right) seniors Pedro Carrillo, Omar Miranda, Mike Aguilo, Alex
Arturo Balandra, and Chanlie Artime accompanied by the guitar of
Br. Willy Garda-Tunon administers the Eucharist to Alfredo Blume.
Bared, Eddie Carreno, Patrick Hidalgo,
Danny Dominguez carry the figure of the Virgin Mary to the altar
Torra,
Josefina Chirino
As you look out the small circular window of the plane, the lush green Caribbean landscape enchants you. San... to Domingo, with its sandy, pristine, white beaches and warm native culture, · truly an island paradise. One is tra f ''God, Gold aa ry"" g o ial buil din s and the Gothic styl athedral flaunting the splen dor b c ·ately lost· walls of these buildin
A paradise it dise in turmoil. Within the past aen a o has been rav... aged by revolution, military dictatorships, puppet gov emments and poverty. Despite their ever present hard-ships, the Dominicans have remained a warm and caring people and they will gladly offer anybody the little they possess.
Alfred Fernandez
"Remains of a lost empire" ,Spanish garrisons stand proud and mighty in a world ever changing around them.
photo by Frank Quesada Student Life
Nature makes for interesting architecture. La Guocora, a popular nightclub set in a cave, provides exciting entertainment at all hours.
photo by Garcia Godoy
Cross of the school of Loyola in Santo Domingo.
Santo Domingo
up Cfose
Since 1975, the Social Studies department has offered juniors and seniors a seminar wit h the Close Up Foundation in Washington, D.C., to study th w orkings of the federal government. Led by Mr. Patrick Collins and Deacon Robert O'Ma ll ey, a record breaking 48 Belen students not only saw everything from Arlington National Cemetery to the Rotunda, but had the grand opportunity to witness the second inauguration of President Clinton and Vice President Gore. ''I know I was making history by being present at the inaugurat i on sin ce few people got that honor,'' said Junior Mikel Llanes. Junior Carlos Curbelo added, ''The Washington experience impacted m e so much that now I have confirmed my, i terest in and becoming part of it.'' Eric Paez said 'One o f the m o st memorable features of the Close Up experi enc e is to be with stud ents from all across America.'' TbJ eek ended with a bigwrty off all 000 Clo s e p participa ts celebrating the inauguration and a fan week in oun
Belen students pose for a picture in front of the USS Maine Memorial at Arlington National Cemetery on their first day of the trip.
photo by Kim Slater
"Future politicians" from Belen group together for a picture in front of the Capital Building.
photo by Eduardo Gonzalez
Robert Fojo, Joseph Noa, Nick Calzada, Carlos Curbelo, Jorge Solum, and Eddie Canto (left to right) huddle up to pose for a picture in five degree weather photo by Michael Pineiro
Deacon Robert O'Malley and Mr. Patrick Collins pose for a picture with Hillary and Bill Clinton. "There was always something to do," said Deacon O ' Malley, "We had a lot of fun "
Belen students wait to be served dinner at the Holiday Inn in the Chevy Chase Hotel after a long day of touring Washington photo by Lanessa Cabrera
After a hard-day's work at seminars and lectures, the Close Up group relaxes at their hotel. photo by Jose Fernandez
Sftow YourS irit II
Senior Jose "Hutch" Rasco poses with his "buyers'' after the senior auction held during the night Pep Rally Hutch promises to treat all these girls to dinner and a movie after the event Pretty good bargain, huh ladies?
photo by Ivan J. Vich
Senior Michael "J-5" Llorente takes a shot as he is defended by Varsity cheerleaders. Five seniors from the football team agreed to tie their right hands behind their backs and play a basketball game against the cheerleaders. The football players still won.
photo by Ivan J. Vich
Varsity basketball coach Jose Roca introduces his team to the crowd No, that's not a really short player, that's Coach Roca's two-year-old son practicing to play for his daddy sometime in the future. He has a good chance at starting for the J.V. team next year.
photo by Robert Rico
Pep Rallies
Arma ndo Castro
photo by Ivan J Vich
Student Council president Daniel Dominguez gets the crowd ready for a performance by the Wolverine cheerleaders. The cheerleaders work hard during their season for at least two hours every day in order to get their timing and stunts just right.
ShowinQ what school spirit is all about, senior Marcus Macau demonstrates his sk ills on the microphone as "Waldo" (Dio Carrera) jumps on his back and waves to the camera.
Seniors Manolo "The Muffin" Diaz and Jorge "Yee-Hahhh" Landa pose with some of the Varsity cheerleaders during the first -ever night Pep Rally.
Seniors and juniors enjoy themselves at a Pep Rally, dancing and singing to the music of D J. Mandy They're also trying to intimidate the other grades, proving that they are the loudest.
Senior Daniel Arenas speeds his way by Pablo Taquechel at the Soccer /Basketball Pep Rally in February. The soccer team went on to defeat district-rival Gulliver for the respective title.
photo by Robert Rico
photo by Robert Rico
photo by Robert Rico
photo by Robert Rico
Student Life
The 1996 Homecoming King and Queen, Michael Llorente and Lynette Gonzalez , continue the traditional King and Queen Dance at Homecoming
photo by Ale x Bienes
The 1996 Homecoming Week was different compared to ones from past years To start off, it was only four days long. As if that wasn't bad enough, Friday's was cancelled due to Hurricane Warnings. Besides all these distractions, the week turned out to b e quite successful; in fact it was one of the best in recent yea rs. The week began with "Old Uniform D a y" on Tuesday, an d Wedne sday being the traditio n al Day Activities whi ch consisted of a Bed Race, an all you can eat race and the old style Bobbing for hot dogs Thu r sday was the big day for the seniors to perform the ever pop ular Belen Senior Skit. This year t h e Skit was performed in the Gym, which caused problems with the lightning and acoustics, however, despite all this it was a great sh o w. The cancellation of school on friday put a damper on the week due to the fact that it did not give the football team a chan ce for their much anticipated moment of Glory. The pu rpose of the week, however , was to gener ate support throughout t he school for the hard working football team. This was realized when the footba ll team brated yet another victory over district riva l Gulliver in a overtime th ri ller. " T his is one of the grea test moments of my life " , said se ni or J oseph Selem, who cl inched the victory with an interception in overtime. After their vi ctory t he football team and the r e st of the school celebrate d a t the H omecoming Dance which was held at the Hotel. The night commenced with the announcement of the Homecoming King and Queen. The lucky winners t his year were Michael Llorente and the lovely Lynette Gonzalez. Overall this year's coming Week was a great success and stood atop of many in Belen ' s history.
Eduardo Cepero
Junior Joey Souto entertains his date Vangy Delgado on the dance floor at the Homecoming Dance
photo by Alex Bienes
Seniors Mike Llorente (56) and Joe Selem (60) block their defenders and open up a gap to allow runningback Wawy Cepero (31) to pick up a crucial first down in their victory versus Gulliver
photo by Michael Perez
5 make one of their rare appearances together at the Homecoming Dance " Their performance was just marvelous and I would do anything to see it aga in ," said senior
Junior Chris Cuenca and world reknowned rover Zaba St George take some time from raving to pose for a ;Jicture
photo by Alex Bienes
Senior Manny Chico and his date Lauren Knickerboker dance the night away as they start up a tunnel in the Homecoming Dance. photo by Alex Bienes
The 1996 Homecoming Court , which consisted of five girls and guys , pose for the group picture at the Inter-Continental Hotel. photo by Alex Bienes
The Jackson
Danny Dominguez
photo by Alex Bienes
Seniors Juan Barreneche and Robert Llama perform their best interpretations of Gutierrez and Remis in which m ight have been the last senior skit during Homecoming Week
photo by Robert Rico
Senior Daniel Arenas decides to show his crazy side at the Kick-Off dance, "The band just made me go insane it was so great," said Arenas of the dance.
Every year the Belen Kick-Off dance seems to attract all types of crowds, from the grunge gangs to the hip-hop homies and even the few prepsters. Despite the fact that Belen is located in the swamp lands of the Florida Everglades, people seem to find their way to Belen for our dances. Th e 96-97 Student Council set up the ever popular Kick-Off dance which fea tured DJ Eddie G. and DJ Smiles alongside the local band FORTE. The dance attracted about three thousand kids despite the fact that the gates had to be closed off because fire hazards and other pre-cautionary measures. It is important to have a successful Kick-Off dance each year because it dictates the rest of the years activities.
The 96-97 Student Council held the first ever Sock-liop in the newly built gymnasium, the dance allowed for a new theme dance that could be carried on throughout th years. Belen also holds the traditional Battle of the Bands, which gives a chance for local bands to display their talents. This year is also going to be the beginning of the Battle of the DJ' s which will attract a lot of liip-liop lovers and dancers. So in overview the Belen dances have had the reputation of being the best around and will continue the tradition as long as Belen is around.
Eduardo Cepero
photo by Steve Giralt
Student Life
Some students from around local high schools break from some dancing to look above for a photo oppurtunity .
by Robert Rico
The Belen Kick-Off dance, which is usually the first and most successful of the year, shows how many kids it can attract from around Miami.
Some Belen seniors gather around some girls from Carrolton and Lourdes while enjoying themselves at one of the very exciting Belen dances.
Pablo Taquechel takes an overview of the situation at this years Kick-Off dance which attracted about 3000 kids. Mr. Taquechel was one of the several teachers who volunteered to help with the dance.
photo
photo by Robert Rico
photo by Robert Rico
photo by Robert Rico
Tombola was a time for students, teachers and parents to lay back and have a good time.
Daniel Dominguez ran the day to day operations of this years Tom bola.
This years Tom bola had some of the best rides Belen has ever had.
Students from many diffrent schools gathered in the Belen patio in order to try to get into the Belen Tombola dance
Jorge Martinez and his son enjoy a moment of family unity during Tombola
Jimmy Perez and his grandson spend time together at this year's Tombola.
photos by Steven Giralt
The Belen security team did a great job of keeping everything at the entrance of the Tombola dance organized. Much of the dance's success was due to their hard work.
A ·Tri6ute to Father Jose Maria Iz uiercfo
Dylan Thomas once wrote, ''Do not go gentle into that good night.'' This statement best describes the life of father Jose Maria Izquierdo. He was a man who gave life its very definition and with his death, ·a piece of Belen has gone with him. He will however remain engraved in the hearts and minds of all those whose lives he touched. He was a man who was bold and courageous. He saw the problems which life threw before him and conquered them. He was firm but kind He was a man whose
89 wJ1t ® ()/ sdwot rna.s& presence would make one tremble, but whose kindness would overwhelm. He has become part of the history that is Belen. and he shall forever be remembered as a teacher, priest and administrator, but above all as a friend and a man for others.
Alfred Fernandez
As a first year principaL Father Izquierdo has proven himself again to be a necessary asset to our community. From h i s humble desk, he is responsible for most of the academic and disciplinary actions of the school. tie is always willing to listen to a student.
During the years of service mass, Fr. Izquierdo commends Mrs. tlaibi for her hard work and dedication to the school.
Student Life
Fr. Izquierdo answers one of many questions posed to daily.
This is a picture form when Fr.
was an Assistant Principle for
The moment is finaJly here David Uloa receives his ceremonial pin and certificate from Fr. Jose Izquierdo.
A proud moment for Belen at the Silver Knight ceremony finds Mrs. Beatriz Jimenez , Silver Knight Coordinator, Javier Jime· nez, Silver Knight Nomi· nee in Business, Gus Or· tiz , Silver Knight winner, in Vocational -Technical, Jose Maria Izquierdo , Principal : Mrs Maria Hewett, Silver Knight Co· ordinator, Robert Suarez , Silver Knight Nominee in Art.
Jose Izquierdo,
Disci· pline.
Father Jose Maria Izquierdo, S. J.
Robert Gramatges makes the sign of the cross after receiving communion.
Carlos Cusco gladly shakes Father Marcelino's hand after receiving his pin.
Nelson Duenas and his father pray in silence during the consecration of the eucharist.
Father Sardinas gives a prayer during the eucharistic ceremony.
All photos by Lily I
All students have a period in their academic life in which they progress to new levels of challenges. For the eight graders, this time comes at their annual Pin Ceremony. The ceremony commemorates the successful completion of, for many, the middle school years at Belen, and the new coming of age known as high school. The pins, as the seniors' rings, also symbolizes the classes unity and readiness for what is to come.
With good weather and even better spirits, the ceremony commenced with a processionby the students, with parents at their side, and the celebrants. As time passed, the anticipation for the presentation of the rings excalated. Then the defining moment of the evening presented itself. The pins were blessed and distributed to the students. Both parents and students rejoiced in the most defining moment of their middle school years. This "graduation" ceremony, will for many years to come be engraved in the minds of the ones whom were present.
Frank Quintana
Pin Ceremony
orge Saurez, J.P. Chaves, Luis Fonesca, nd Robert Garcia hold on to their dates s D .J MC Armando Castro slows the
Diaz a nd ime after the p ro
erThe first of many formals that students have a privilege of attending is the eight grade prom. Since the 1992-1993 school year Teresita Campos has been in charge of its organization. Along with Mrs. Campos makes this event what it is. ''An incredible amount of work was put into this activity by many caring parents. We can all see that it was well worthwhile,'' said Ana Cantens, one of the parents involved. Among the Belen Community it was a total success, even some of the young ladies taken as dates agreed. ''Belen prom was a night I will always remember," said Stefanie Perez. "We all had a blast!," commented Daniel Leon. The success of the class of 2001, although uncomparable, is left as an example for the class of 2002.
Julio C. Bertemati
David Lay and his date spend a romantic moment alone during the junior prom.
All photos by William Gaitan
Junior Prom
The juniors had a great I time dancing to modern dance music at the Airport Hilton.
Phillip Riveron and Joseph Noa speak about what they are going to do after junior prom.
Junior Prom is the second Ballroom best reflected the most magical night in a high magical air of the evening. school students life. It is a mo- Every one seemed to dance ment that students will want on air and for a moment time to relive for the rest of their ceased to exist as friends lives. It is an evening that and fellow students drank, combine f ormality with t he ate , a nd were m erry . Truly it rambunctious e erQY of i Gl ni ht mos will not soon youth. It is a night of unity forget for it is important to and young love. The monu- remember that we only live mentous occasion was held once. at the Airport Hilton whose Alfred Fernandez
Gabriel Masvidal takes time from his junior prom to show us how much of a "stud" he is.
Michael Mena and his date take time to sink into the moment of the night.
Mikel Llanes, Rodolfo Sablan and Michael Torres as they entered the Junior Prom
Jose Rovira and Frank Batista play two monkeys struggling to write Shakespeare.
Mrs. Trotsky, played by Stephanie, reads to Mr. Trotsky, played by Carlos Barcia, his death prediction from the encyclopedia.
Lianette Campos and Gabriel Berthin in 'Sure Thing'. ''The play taught us how theater of the absurd is performed," said junior Ivan Vich.
photo by Ivan Vich
photo by N. Berthin
photo by Ivan Vich
Christy Gonzalez, Joey Soto, Xavier Franco, and Vanessa Rodriguez sing in unison as they emerge into their roles.
photo by M. Gonzalez
Robert Fojo and Nick Calzada in the play "Philadelphia". "This play was probably the best one," said Junior Gabriel Jacobson.
In tfie
Gaberiel MasvidaL as one of the in "Three monk writer
photo by Ivan Vich
Robert Fojo, Christy Fojo, and Nick Calzada take a well deserved bow after an excellent P.§II.OL=----'
photo by N. Berth in
The cast from the 11th grade play is relieved after a two day performance.
photo by Mrs. Fojo
Junior Play
tlie
After one school year of hard work and dedication the distinguished s tudents of Belen received t he r cognition they deserved.
Already kno wn for its reputation of high c o pettf n, the Belen administration intensifies the competi v es s among students by awarding the top two pupils of ea ass period with a gold and siJver medal.
Because of th e many top-notch students en rolled in Belen and the competitive attitude in which these students apply themselves to b e the top their class, these m edals are hard to come by. " I tis an honor to receLve such an award. I guess all those long h ours of studying paid off, " said Jose Rasco, with a smile, wh o received a gold medal in A lgebra II.
The student b ody is not the only group wh o believes these awards are imp ortant and rewarding. "The te achers, as well, enjoy to see the fight to be the# one among students, II said Mr. Pablo Taqu echel. "Us teachers love to s ee the students put that extra ort, that extra hour of studying, to receive these m , a at only is it rewarding to them, but it is to
Thi ras no different than any year in the past. The most pro sing students of Belen showed up with smiles, appreciating th e applause and the honor a wards given to them. 'Tm just glad we finally got the recognition we deserved, II said Jose Rasco.
Eddy Vadia
Sen ior Albert Pa rlade receives his many awa rds from Father Marcelino Garci a.
Ms. Beatriz Jimenez shows her support for a former student.
Ms. Grace Acosta, along with guest speaker Roberto Hernandez and the rest of the Belen administration, look at their · program to follow the procedural events.
Father Eddie Alvarez begins the A wards Ceremony with a prayer.
Father Marcelino Garcia hands the well-deserved medals to seventh grader Joaquin Sanchez.
Christopher Wills is greeted with hugs and kisses from family and friends after receiving his awards.
All photos on this page by Steven Giralt Awards Ceremony
Award Winners at The D ade County Fair
LIFE
Once again, my eyes open: anguish
Scattered rays of light spill in, and singe dark eyes
Rise and do their senseless bidding
Stay within their imagined boundaries
Toil alone, always alone
Search for some purpose, some meaning and find nothing
So i fight, i am the epitome of rage and hatred i fight blindly, striking down all in my path, and see the monster i have become , the demon they made me
I continue battling They will not break me today, i whisper You will not win, i roar. but slowly, clenched fits open to reveal empty hands
Victory, defeat, no difference: i cannot change things by myself Alone, in the dark, i cry and the teardrops bum
This gift of life given to me by my creator is quickly tom from me by my brother I can fight no longer, been crushed too many times So i just wait, surviving on meager hopes, until she appears
A black flame with soft white wings, only her touch can set me free tier deep eyes intoxicate
Together we revel in our pain and misery. and somehow, find a twisted brand of happmess, until a warm kiss, a last caress, and she is gone
Alone again, time passes, memories fade. and i cry and wait for this hell to end
Once again they have won And somewhere a tear drops, and a flower bums , and an angel falls
Such is life
Albert Garcia-Romeu Tenth grade
Academic'
FULLFI L LIN G YOUR DREAMS
I woke up that morning to the scent of trying foods and baking bread I rose from my cot feeling the rough, wooden floor paneling beneath my bare feet. I ran to the kitchen intoxicated by the smell I heard something lifted from grease the pops and crackles like the crunching of a soda can I hear the soothing voice of my grandmother old, cracked lips on my cheek like withered flower petals her scent surrounded her, the perfume drowning out all else I felt the guilt, so much like an elephant sitting on my heart, get up and walk away.
All was forgiven. She gave me a sandwich I indulged, and tasted The bitter ham croquettes I went outside.
The sun heated my skin
The air was filled with jasmine I grabbed the old, rusty bike
I felt the familiar bum of the seat, heated in the sun, Riding to the beach, I listened to the crunch of old gears. Even before I crested the hill, I sensed
The familiar scent of the ocean And the crashes of waves I flung my bike to the sand, And feeling the warm sand between my toes, I stood for a moment, Admiring the glistening bodies lining the beach I watched the sea, Like the breathing of some giant I thought of cities of old, Of cities of the present, Of cities that would never exist I began to run, to run towards the beach I stopped, standing in th surf, Feeling the chill of the water, Dimpling my skin
Making me shudder, I ignored this, diving deep, down, down, into the watery depth the harsh sting of sea water
Entering my eyes.
I tasted the water, salty yet refreshing I saw a school of fish, and joined them, for all eternity.
Ernie Lorenzo Ninth grade
LOVE
As I chip away at this prison that surrounds my being.
I see rays of light shinning through those cracks that separate me from life. The bright light impairs my vision, causing me to quickly shut my eyes; I open them once more, some dark spots remain.
I wipe my eyes nervously, these bits of darkness never go away They are part of me now.
Again I attend to my former task.
Slowly, that barrier of white emptiness crumbles.
The rifts become larger, wide enough for a glimpse of what lies beyond this shell. Yet it is not the outside which my sight first encounters.
Instead, a soft white feather remains attached to the sharp piece of shell; so lovely and feminine, I rub it gently against my face.
liow pure one feels at such a time!
I kiss the fine feather, released, it floats out and up into the heavens.
Freedom is near, I can feel you.
A thousand moons have passed since I last had any word of you. Dark spot, the sensation of a soft plume against the skin these comfort for an eternity.
But wait! Out of the comer of my eye:
A parasol, pink and trimmed with the finest lace; "Mother, are you there?"
There is no answer, only the sight of a childhood memory long since vanished from reality. Is there to be another sign?
No matter, I can taste your lips already.
Insane, confined in a round cell, what we really see one can never tell.
When the heart is sure, however, it must be.
The light that has accompanied me for so long has dimmed. Shadows fall upon all the earth, darkness governs this day.
A noise! A cracking noise!
My loathsome home falls in upon me.
I step out and gaze into the gray sky, specks of blue appearing now and then . Your eyes stare back at mine.
In them, I see fate.
I love you!
I want to tear you apart. Let me feel your maternal embrace. I spit on you!
Your face is clear: it is darkness and light, purity and sin, my mother and some evil whore. My heart cries out to you: "Where are you, my Eva?!"
Pedro Carrillo
Grade 12
College counselor Charmaine lcaza guides young minds on the path for greater knowledge
Guidance counselor Ralph Ledesma working on the computer.
photo by Ivan Vich
Academ ic'
Alexis Mantecon flashes his infamous smile for the camera.
Charmaine lcaza presenting senior Eddy Carreno to a college representative.
photo by Ivan Vich
Us in tlie Ri9ht Direction
About 85 percent of the senior class is going on to a four year college, and the other 15 percent are going to a community college, it is impressive that the person behind this is Charmaine Icaza who has also been working with Belen for 15 years. Charmaine Icaza was originally an English teacher and person of the English department at Belen. She became the college counselor at Father Figueredo's request when the school relocated eleven years ago and has held that position ever since. She is now head of college counseling, and head of the Guidance department. Along with the help of a talented group of personnel working by her side which include Sister Maria Cartaya, Rafael Ledesma, and Samuel Vega, she is the guidance counselor for all students from 6 12 grade.
Not only is Charmaine lcaza a hard working college counselor but also a Eucharistic Minister photo by Steven Gira lt
In trying to meet with her I found that she is a lmost impossible to get in touch with. I also found that a student should begin searching for colleges as early as Junior year in high school. A junior should start to get involved by going to the annual college fair and by asking themselves two important questions, "Who they are, and what they want?"
All and all Charmaine Icaza is the most valuable faculty ber for a college bound upperclassmen. In talking with several seniors they all agreed that Charmaine Icaza has helped them get where they are right now in choosing colleges.
Fernando Goudie
Sister Maria Cartaya working on the kinesthetic test result.
photo by Robert Rico
A Tnre Kn"!glit o RoundTa6 The
Every student that attends Belen will tell you that we have nothing but the best when it comes to English teachers. However, the best of the best would probably be the sixth grade reading teacher, Rafael Ross. He implicates a unique teaching style that most teachers only dream they could do. When in class, Rafael Ross is not just a teacher, but a friend. He treats his students with love and respect and his students do the same. Few teachers could accomplish this mutual respect, but to him, it feels like second nature.
Rafael Ross is not much different than most of us. He enjoys playing his electric guitar, reading novels, mountain biking, and listening to local bands. Before he was a teacher, he was a musician.
Rafael Ross is not just a teacher to us, he is a friend. Someone you can go talk to when you have a problem and some one who could cheer you up when your down. Someone who is always there for you when you need him. There should be more teachers like Rafael Ross.
David Hernandez
Tony Perez relaxes in the teacher's lounge after a treacherous day of teaching his 9th graders. He constantly tries to stay on top of current events to help him teach his English class.
photo by Robert Rico
Silvia Hernandez works very hard being both a teacher and the English Department chairperson.
Busquet shows nothing but hard work and dedication to
the
Rafael Ross shows us his spirit, as he cheers on his team at the sixth grade olympics. He shows the dedication and love for his students.
photo by Ivan Vich
Aimee
her Vincam class as they creep up on "crunch time"
photo by Ivan Vich
Anthony Alexander expresses his superb sense of humor and his astonishing wit.
photo by Robert Rico
Leo Williams Introduces
International Thespian Societie's award winning play "The Interview" to the student body of Belen.
photo by Robert Rico
photo by Ivan Vich
Ignacio Font talks to Robert Rico, Barney Flores, · Robert Zurita, and Michael Perez about the theme of the 1997 yearbook.
Leopoldo Nunez explains the olympian gods to an interested class of juniors.
gives a homily during one of the first masses of the year.
The tenth grade students use charcoal in their study of the intricles of line drawing.
photo by Michael Perez
photo by Ivan Vich
Father Eddie Alvarez, S.J .
photo by Steven Giralt
photo by Ignacio Font
The
grade class prepares a
for a class project.
sixth
scarecrow
photo by Robert Rico
Michael Perez and Ignacio Font rest after a hardy meal at Cracker Barrel on their way to the Taylor Yearbook Seminar in St. Petersburg, FL.
Marie Jean Miyar grades the juniors' tests on Romanesque architecture.
photo by Gabriel Jacobson
photo by Robert Rico
It seems to me that Belen is finally taking a step in the right direction, forward. Among the many new developments Belen has undergone, including the gymnasium and the rebuilt auditorium, the Math Department has implemented the use of the Texas Instrument line calculators in the Advanced Math Pr g h pper grades. You may have even s und school, in the hands of the Sop o o e , iors and Seniors.
These calculators are advanced enough to be as useful as a co t t n calculations and other mathem ti hey are graphic calculators. W en aske h w ey have impacted the way that math is taught in the classrooms, Mr. Roca, the ni I cher, replied, "They are us ca e me to demonstrate things graphica y and a so because they enable e students to se how all t hings that are do
Thes es they bring with them, are providing Belen with a new path, forward. They are helping the students to understand concepts that were otherwise vague and difficult to grasp. They are also helping the upperclassmen on their SATs in the math sections. Maybe at the end of the year, we'll even be able to visit the Belen Web Site.
James Pader
Maria Fiorenza instructs these up-and-coming programmers in the use of Q-Basic.
photo by Ivan Vich
Fresh out of college, Gabe Perez-Giz observes the beauty and wonder of the lunar eclipse.
photo by Ivan Vich
Brenda Cutliff instructs her sixth grade students in basic preAlgebra. photo by Ivan Vich
Mr. Ed Garland demonstrates a fundamental math conceP>t.
photo by Ivan Vich
MMiriam Combo/Martinez became a welcome addition to the Mathematics Department in the middle of the year. Mrs Combo/Martinez took over the eighth grade math classes substituting for Teresita Campos, who took a leave of absence.
photo by Ivan Vich
Jose Roca, in full concentration, at the annual math conference.
photo by Ivan Vich
Marielena
still manages to grade her papers despite her time consuming tasks as disciplinarian and Spanish teacher.
Toujours esprit et a Ia mode, always witty and in style, Father Pedro Cartaya S J. adds flavor to his class with his French beret.
5 Academic'
Cartaya
photo by Ivan Vich
photo by Ivan Vich
Javier De Ia Vega, who teaches seventh grade Spanish, and Armando Castro discuss the use of the new program on the laptop
photo by Ivan Vich
L earning our Heritage
This year the Modem Languages Department welcomed a new member, Javier De Ia Vega. He is an alumnus of the l992 graduating class and is currently teaching sixth grade Spanish. The Chairperson of the Modem Languages Department, Beatriz Jimenez, feels that her dream of having a former student follow in her footsteps has been fulfilled. She refers to it as her "ultimate reward." Beatriz Jimenez states "his students are very lucky to have a teacher and coach as good as he is."
Javier De Ia Vega declares h is wish to remain a teacher and coach here at Bel en for as l ong as he possibly can. In speaking to some of his students they have told me that he is an excellent teacher as well as an outstanding r ole model. As a first year teacher, he is performing an excellent job and Belen hopes he continues.
Dora Hai b i, the sixth an d seventh gra d e Spanish teacher, attends the annual award ceremony t o hon o r the hard w ork and diligence of her students
photo by Steve Giralt
Gabriel Jacobson
Martha Vidal teaches her eighth grade students the beauty of their hispanic culture and heritage.
photo by Ivan Vich
Ralph Ledesma administers the sacrament of communion during a school wide mass in the new gym.
photo by Ivan Vich
Coach Eduardo Fraga has lived out his coaching dreams here at Belen. He's not only an excellent football coach, he is also a great ro l e-model for his many friends and students. Coach Fraga has experienced various changes in Belen, including the constru ction of the pool, two football fiel ds, two baseball fie l ds and most recently, the completion of the gymnasium. Being a part of the Belen family for over fourteen years, he has also experienced a dramatic i ncrease in student enrollment. Among his most glorious achievements are the football team's 9-1 season in 1991 and the t i me that Belen beat Westminster Christian in baseball during his first year at Belen. Coach Fraga is and has been a key el ement not only the the athletic program, but to the moral standards of the school, and will continue his efforts for years to come.
Armando Castro and Manolo Diaz
Coach Eric Hansen switching gloves with a student as it is his turn at bat. Coach Hansen stays active during his classes. "It's a great way to stay fit, and I'm getting pretty good at softball."
Coach Richard Stuart poses for a quick picture while he is watching over his Physical Education class and working on our various fields at the same time. "It is hard work, but it pays off by the the time the season starts ''
All photos by Ivan Vich
Coach Ed Fraga grades some papers after a mindboggling Health quiz Coach Fraga enjoys teaching his students and has been here for many years. BERRY
Apart from his Spanish classes, Belen Alumni Javier de Ia Vega teaches and coaches the football teams. He is very happy to be back at Belen after four years at college.
NICE COACH!!!
Francisco Pichardo explains the functions and purpose of the kidneys and liver to his anatomy class.
photo
by
Ivan Vich
Being his first year, Gabriel Perez-Giz gives a lecture on Isaac Newton's laws to his seniors in physics and manages to teach Math Analysis as well to help out senior and junior math teacher and Math Chairperson Carol Vila. picture by Robert Rico
Mercedes Garcia glance at an encased medallion as she is about to present it to one of many successful academic achievers in the 6th grade in an award assembly
by Steve Giralt
Remem6ering Science
When we ' re talking about Science at Belen, the names of Dr. Pedro A. Hernandez, Frank Pichardo and Rafael Fernandez are most likely to tum up every time. It's the unique personality and dedication they share with their students in class and lab projects that helps students have fun and learn at the same time. With 11 years experience in Belen and a doctorate in hand, Pedro A. Hernandez still manages to joke around with his students while teaching Biology. Rafael Fernandez, a 16 year veteran at Belen, has always entertained his students with his "relation" and "adventures" with Superman. We can't forget to mention Ms. Mercedes Garcia for her admirable support and love in guiding and preparing Belen's underclassmen for 12 years. Frank Pichardo is entering his 22nd year as Science Chairperson at Belen. This year will be his 24th Senior class after which he will say farewell, as we too, class of '97, will say good bye. lie has this unique attitude that is quick and abrupt
and which, in a sense, is quite comical as well.
Let's not forget the three "survivors" beginning in last year, Jilla Boulas, and this year's two: Rolando Sucena and Gabriel Perez-Giz. Ms. Boulas teaches 8th Grade Science. Mr. Sucena teaches 9th Grade Science. Mr Perez-Giz is teaching Physics and Math Analysis to the Juniors and Seniors as well as coaching the debate team. At first it looked like the Seniors were going to massacre him, but the winds eventually shifted for the better. Now he even gives up his time to tutor those struggling in his classes. It ' s through fun, communication and understanding that we get the true essence of Science. Mr. Pichardo told me as we were ending the interview that, " I sincerely hope throughout our efforts and commitments we had helped students to contribute in making a better world." We'll never forget you guys.
Alejandro Villasuso
Rolando Sucena mentally calculates the answer to a problem a student has written on the board.
photo by Ivan Vich
photo
Dr. Pedro A . Hernandez happily takes some time off to cherish a moment with his son David P. Hernandez.
photo by Ivan Vich
an educator.. he chose to come to Belen. "I knew eral graduates and I found that I agreed with the es and faith practiced by the students. I also thought that it would be a good idea to work with people with whom I shared common roots," stated Gutierrez as a reason which motivated him to become an educator. tie chose history as his fie ld of study because he believes that many times, people tend to lose t · ·values due to influe s in society. In his opinion, he tha tea is ry, e can learn about pre a s avoiding them.
Besides other te s. Many of his other occupations are tied into his undeniable love for the country from which he and his family were exiled. tie has unending desire to see his land liberated. tiis passion for Cuba led to his affiliation with the Brothers to the Rescue organization. There, he basically works with documentation and records. tie is also a member of Directorio, which is a youth group for Cuban Americans. if this weren't enough, is also the host of his own r s ·
p
Mr. Gutierrez is the moderator of the Model U.N. team at Belen. This is an organization which is set up by the United Nations in several universities and high schools in order to educate students on how the United Nations works. The different teams have the job of representing the country assigned to them before a mock general assembly. Gutierrez's two main goals are to win and to assimilate freshmen into the team.
When reg am glad tha an integral
Jorge Martinez with his famous Friday guru TGIF
photo by Steve Giralt I
Father Jorge Mungia reminds his students that, "The trigger finger never misses."
photo by Steve Giralt
Soraya Herron is pleased by her student's recent test results.
Orlando Gutierrez displays his Cuban patronage during a moving speech about the Brothers to the Rescue.
Patrick Collins displays his frustration because his students can't understand that it isn't like something, it is photo by Suzie Carrillo
Charles Cleveland explains his sacrificial lamb theory.
photo by Ivan Vich
photo by Steve Giralt
photo by Steve Giralt
Eugene Zoller goes over the Star Spangled Banner by Francis Scott Key.
photo by Ivan Vich
Garcia thinks about all the events that have been planned, along with their success after encountering some problems . photo by Robert Rico
Chirino takes a break from preparing her class schedule in order to take a picture.
fl
Senior Eric Blanco and Father Eddy Alvarez pose for a picture during some free time at the senior encounter.
by Robert Rico
Ms. Chirino, Mr. Garcia, Fr. Eddy, and Ms Fernandez get together during the award ceremony in order to take a picture.
Ms.
photo by Ivan J. Vich Academics
photo
photo by Alex Bienes
Pablo Taquechel stands for a picture in the library while students do some research in the background.
photo by Ivan J Vich
The l996·l997 school year was one of the most hectic, b ut also one o f t he best y ears for th e T heolo gy D epartment. In preparati on for Fr. Willy' s departure to Brazil the Theology department hired his ... con Robert 0' of the probl department e as the year n a the rearrangement o
Peer Ministry was brought back for the 9th and lOth gra d es and th e Spiritual Counselors b egan tea ching t h es e cla s ses.
In th e near future, th e Theology Departm e nt plans to add more electives for the department and create a room for .- """' p u · istry in order a proper envithe student
classes as a result of Fr. Taquechel said, Victor e-mand z' s heart ''The Acc eptilation Comas very imlogy De art- pre e •th the faculty, e t t a urri as well as th Campus
Rafael Villoldo
Deacon O'Malley as he walks into the award ceremony to honor the students for their academic achievment in the 19951996 school year.
photo by Alex Bienes
A WELL DESERVED RECOGNITION
acomplis athletes s "'nu ri!!J nt ication pai their outs the year, cau and for their aF Santa-C u li.;:\,. athlete of
The varsity cheerleaders keep the crowd and the players in the game.
Sportsmen of the year Marcos Macau and Mike Llorente show off their brand new trophies to the other athletes at the award ceremony.
The Belen Varsity cheerleaders stand proud after receiving letters for their hard work and dedication of keeping the crowds fired up.
Varsity Basketball standout Jose Rasco receives an award from athletic director Carlos Barquin.
Jose Rasco concentrates on his second free throw after making the first shot Sophomore Angel Gonzalez is given a letter for his outstanding play in soccer by varsity coach Pablo Taquechel.
Athlete of the year Jorge Vigo stands proud next to coach Richard Stuart.
The Belen defense attacks the ball in their key game against arch rival Gulliver .
Freshman Luis Martinez receives an award by athletic director Carlos Barquin at the sports banquet.
Freshmen Alex Alfonso and Manuel Hoyos look with envy at the trophy awarded to fellow classmate Jose Romero.
Guard Marcos Macau looks for the open man to "dish off" to.
Varsity wrestler Mike Llorente puts the fin ishing move on his next victim in a key match
Do to the athletic as well as academic excellence of this school, the Junior High Sport Banquet was an enormous success. It was time once again to recognize the students who put in more than 100°/o for the sports they played. These individuals deserve what they get due to there effort and hard work. This year Belen presented a large amount of students with a wide variety of awards, raging from football,all the way to the tennises team. All the coaches parents were there to honor and express how proud they are of these young athletes.
Ivan J. Vich
BeCen's Future AtliCetes
Matthew Llorente smiles happily when his name is called to receive for being the MVP of the Volleyball team.
Jorge Suarez receives a very prestigious award.
Alex Sarria smiles at his coach, while receiving his volleyball certificate, because they both had remembered that very special season that they had.
Eighth grader Alex Paret shows off his football trophy to all the people in the cafeteria.
Three of the volleyball players wait for the rest of the volleyball team to go up and receive their award.
All photos by: Ivan J. Vich
Jorge Palmerola, Robert Romeo and Alex Paret stand proud after receiving their football certificates .
Junior High Spots Banquet
Go Team, Go!
Befens # 1 Acfvantage
Every year it seems that the we criticize them. tiow many peaBelen cheerleaders keep receiving pie would be able to do that? Not more and more criticism from the many. Belen students. What these stu- From now on instead of making dents don't realize is how hard fun if the Belen cheerleaders, lets they work. They practice day after act like semi decent human beings day in the hot sun, perfecting their and lets cheer with them. They moves and their technique. Not to have worked too hard and too long mention all the dieting and exer- to come to our school and be critcise they go through just so they icized by you. So next time lets look great. Then they perform in please show some respect. Refront of 900 Belen students, in their member were all on the same uniforms, while they jump and team. cheer, always keeping a smile, and
David Hernandez
Scarlet and Emily share the best seat in the house during a Belen basketball game
photo by
Robert Rico
The varsity cheerleaders show off their amazing abilities during the Belen basketball game. All their hard work and dedication finally paid off.
photo by Ivan Vich
The J.V. and Varsity cheerleaders watch the Belen basketball game, while waiting for the next opportunity to lead the fans in a cheer.
photo by Robert Rico
The Belen J.V. cheerleaders help lead the Belen community in a cheer, during Belen's first ever night pep rally.
photo by Robert Rico
Overcomi ACC06stac s
Wo(verlne Varsity Foot6a(( Team
The 1 996-97 football seaso n started off with a win against Hollywoo d Christian at Tropical Pa rk . The Wolverines fini shed with a 7-3 re co rd , of th best ·
After a victory at Barbra Goleman, these Wolverines show us how a professional commen : tator acts during a game.
by Ivan J . Vich
All-Dade senior Alejandro Villasuso looks for a way to run as the offensive line holds off the Gulliver defense.
by Ivan J. Vich
photo
Spo'"
photo
All-Dade junior quarterback Mike "Cookie" Martinez focuses on the task ahead before the Preseason Classic game against Venice. photo by Armando Castro
Junior George Sanchez waits for a pass from senior Aldo Calderin.
photo by Ivan J Vich
1996-199 7 Schedule
Hollywood Chris tian W
American Heritage L
Westminster Christian W
Top row: Victor Mcmillan , Jorge Landa, Juan Barreneche, Manny Chico, Vince Cartaya, Mike Martinez, Carlos Bermudez , and Barney Flores. Standing are : Andy Aguirre , Aldo Calderin , Gabe Dorado, Joe Selem, Pedro Vidal, Jay Carreno, Manny Diaz, Mauricio Coli, Chris Navarrete , Kenji Kurenuma, and Diego Morales. Kneeling are: Georgie Sanchez, Eduardo Cepero, Mario Mendez, Jorge Vigo, Gabe Escudero, Chris Banchs, Ralph V illoldo , Sammy Escudero, Alex Llama , German Munoz, and Charles Suastegui. Seated are: Mike Llorente, Gabriel Pelaez , Alex Burgos, Eric Mauri, Alejandro Villasuso, Juan de Cardenas, Mike Pineiro, Joey Souto, Nick Garcia, and Albert Martinez.
photo by VSN Photography Services
F oot6aCC' s Future
J.V. & Jr. Hi9h
Foot6a!C
This year's Junior High and Junior Varsity teams reached a new level in training: UNITY. Sure, you might talent in the that talent yo
rst am had P "iSe£tson, finishing off with a record of 6-1. This year's team beat old time rival St. Thomas Aquinas, who had been undefeated for five
straight seasons. This is the first time that the J.V. Wolverines beat St. Thomas in over ten years. All the coaches were proud of th eir players, especiall y He ad Coac h Angel Aparicio. "These guys had a great r elationship o n and off the field. That's why we had such season.' '
, Rich Ashenoff,
Mike Olivera Malats led t h e de" .._ , '"' , h o ldin g their oppon ents only 1 4 points in thei r first six g a mes . On the o ffensive side, quarterback Chris Jaile, runningback Miguel Reyes and fullback J C Rasco co nnected o average over 6 yards per carry.
Overall, both teams ha very successful seasons bot on and off the field.
Armando Castro and Manolo Diaz
• arstty
Standing are: Victor Mcmillan, Nick Pasken, Richard Ashenoff, Chris Jaile, Raul Morin, Victor Arrieta, Coach Oscar Benitez, Coach Angel Aparicio, Coach Mario Martinez, Coach Javier de Ia Vega, Gabe Caballero, Albert Malats, Gerald Wood, Edward Buchanan, and Mike Albert. Kneeling are: Joaquin Rosado, Mike Ferria, William Lagos, Geoffrey Lopez, Alex Rodriguez, Alvaro Minoso , Jose Garrido, Paul Michael, David Cruz, Juan Portuondo, Juan Flores, Jimmy Newmyre, Jaime Luss, Jorge Saladrigas. Seated are: Chris Cleveland, Roger Puerto, Mike Laralde, Norbert Benitez, Miguel Reyes, Juan Carlos Rasco, Jerry Del Amo, Alex Rivera, Marcelo Guerra, Rodrigo Alvarez , Mike Olivera, Danny Bozo.
Spon'
LOWERING THE BOOM Defensemen in action push back a Coral Shores runningback for no gain on the play . It was plays like these that let the Baby Wolverines go on an almost undefeated season of 7-1 photo by Bryn-Aiyn Photographer
J.V. Scores J.H. Scores
The future of the program, the Junior High Football team takes time to relax before their pre-game drills and pose for their team picture.
After a tough defeat versus the Gul- liver Raiders, the Junior High Football team and their coaches discuss their loss and give encouragement to top off a tough football season photo by Mr. Romero
C olumbus Freshmen l homas Aquinas
photo by loyal team mom
pro
The 1996-97 eri asketball team had high expectations entering the long season. They were quickly met when the Wolverines won the Miami Springs Invitational by defeating Goleman (6A) and Miami Springs tively. With the addition of the Belen was able to practice round and actually had a tage for the first time in the The season began with a home rivals St. Brendan. The game attracted 1100 people, making it the largest crowd in Belen history as the Wolverines easily routed St. Brendan. The team next faced Pace, defending 4A state champions, and gave them a fight for most of the game but eventually lost to the much bigger and faster Pace team. The team went into the Christmas break with an 8-2 record and awaiting two tournaments during the vacation. In the Wolverine tournament, Belen won its first game by defeating La Progresiva, but in the next game against Florida Christian (2A state champs), crucial turnovers with less than a minute remaining lost the lead and the game for the Wolverines. The Wolverines showed pride and bounced back in Boca Raton winning the Christmas tournament for the first time.
The second of the season started great by the Wolv e.• es straight games.
and Key West. District Tournament Belen was tied for second with Key West and Goleman. The tiebreaker was up to a coin toss and Belen ended up getting fourth place and in the same bracket as Pace. In the first round they sent home Gulliver by defeating them 52-49 and setting up a match up between Pace and Belen in the semifinals. Belen started off awesome forcing Pace to go into a zone defense, a rarity for them, and taking the lead into the half. Pace came out hot in the third quarter and built there own 15 point lead, but the Wolverines battled back to make it close, but in the end Pace proved to be too much for the Wolverines and held on to win by 9 ending the Wolverines' season. The Wolverines still managed to finish with one of Belen's best ever record's at 22-9, and set a path for future basketball teams at Belen to follow.
Eduardo Cepero
awesome photos by Robert Rico
Above, senior guard Eduardo Cepero breaks away from the rest en route to yet another easy lay-up against the tough fighting LaSalle Royal's.
Right, Juniors Joseph No a and Danny Lopez team up to use their brute strength in battling away a rebound from yet another scrapPY Royal player. The Wolverines were able to edge out LaSalle in the rebounding war.
Left, Senior Forward Marcos Macau drives to the hoop with authority aga inst rival school St. Brendan. Below, Senior Jose
takes it to the basket HARD against some other LaSalle players that keep appearing everywhere.
Rasco
photos by Steve Giralt
The 1996-97 Wolverine Basketball team. From the left Coach Jose Roca, Joseph Noa, Michael Santos, Aldo Calderin, Jose Rasco, Danny Lopez, Frank Quesada , and assistant coach Ruben Marrero , Xavier Gonzalez , Michael Mena, Marcos Macau, Eduardo Cepero, Erik Guanche, and Mikel Llanes The team finished off with one of the better records in school history at 22-9.
Left, Coach Jose Roc a gives a hand to his team which was on its way to yet another victory.
photo by Steve Giralt
Junior Hi91i & Junior Varsity
Basket6aa
Energetic. This word sums up home in the new state of the art the way the Junior High squad gymnasium. With the superior played this year. The Junior High coaching of Jose Roca and Ruben team ended the l996-l997 season Marrero, the J.V. squad captured with lO wins and 2 losses. Coach the Gulliver Thanksgiving ToumaJerry Jones said, "The guys played ment title and defeated Gulliver, with a lot of energy. I'm very proud Palmetto, Pace, South Dade, and of them." Belen dominated the many other tough teams. Assistant competition this year with their coach, Ruben Marrero said, "I'm only loss to St. Timothy. very proud of what we accomThe Junior Varsity Basketball plished this year. I am looking forTeam ended the l996-l997 sea- ward to next season.'' son with an astonishing 2l wins Victor Gilpi n and 4 loses, going undefeated at
l2j3-l2jll
l2j9-l2/2l
Chris Hermida, Gabriel Garcia, J.P. Chaves, Antonio Rodriguez, and Jonathan Leyva scramble for the ball.
Chris Hermida, Javier Jacomino, and Jimmy Newmyer wait for the rebound to come down
All photos by : Mr. Hermida
Vincent Cartaya rips a rebound from Pace.
Guard Heriberto Perez kicks out a low post pass to wide open Alex Martinez for an easy score.
Top row : Coach Ruben Marrero, Juan C. Rasco, Gabriel Gonzalez, Mario Pascual, Vincent Cartaya, Alex Martinez, Miguel Telleria. Bottom row: Mark Llorente, Ignacio Portuando, Luis Martinez, Eduardo Ullivarri, Juan Telleria, Heriberto Perez, Octavia Verdejo.
With killer instincts and lightening speed, guard Gabriel Gonzalez is able to blow by even the toughest defenders
seniors Dave Masvidal, Joe Selem, Oscar Fernandez and Tony Bared struggle to hold up senior Andy Aguirre after a victory against Ridgewood Prep. in New Orleans. They might look like they're fooling around, but holding up this much weight takes teamwork.
photo by Charo Ruiz
Sophomore Eric Mauri hits a double against Key West's pitcher. Eric led the team in doubles, and played in 19 consecutive innings without an error at third base.
photo by Carlos Jaile
near-perfect form as he makes the play at first. Oscar is known for his excellence at shortstop; that's why his teammates call him "The E Monster."
photo by Steve Giralt
Showing some Southern hospitality Parents from New Orleans' Team serve up Jumbalaya to Wolverine players Chris Jaile and Tony Bared after a game featuring Belen versus the Jesuit Blue Jays (New Orleans).
Junior first -baseman Carlos Ruiz gets ready as sophomore Jorge Alvarez delivers the pitch. Jorge led the Wolverines with twelve saves
photo by Gabe Masvidal
photo by Angel Gonzalez, Sr.
Hitti119 Towards Success
Standing are coach Ed Fraga, Anthony Bared, Mark Munoz, head coach Eric Hansen, Chris Jaile, Juan Barreneche, Armando Castro, and coach Javier de Ia Vega Kneeling are Shawn Valdes-Fauli, Oscar Fernandez, Joseph Selem, Carlos Ruiz, Andy Aguirre, David Masvidal, and Jorge Suarez Sitting are Danny Padron, Mario Pascual, Gabriel Dorado, Eric Mauri and Jorge AIvarez.
photo by Carlos Jaile
The 96-97 Wolverine Baseball Team had much success on the field this year. Seniors Oscar Fernandez, Dave Masvidal, Juan Barreneche, Joe Selem, Tony Bared and Andy Aguirre led the team to one of its most accomplishing season in the last ten years. Junior pitchers Gabe Dorado and Carlos Ruiz as well as catcher Mandy Castro, first baseman Mark Munoz, and infielder Carlos Albir were all key players on this team. The team also received help from sophomore captains Chris Jaile and Mario Pascual. It was a rebuilding year for the Wolverines, as they faced tough competition both inside and outside of their district. The team travelled to Louisiana during spring break to play four games, and a heartbreaking lost in the district playoffs ended their season. The team had some great help from the head coach E. J. Hansen and assistant coaches Javier de la Vega, Oscar Benitez and Ed Fraga. The team finished the year with a record of 15-13, the first winning season in over five years.
Photographer Carlos Ruiz uses phot o g r a p h y t o r esearch Jorge u arez's pitching style.
Junior Mark Munoz guards St Brendan's runner on first just in case the pitcher decides to throw. Mark led the team in Runs Batted In, with 26 in the season.
photo by Carlos Jaile
Armando Castro
Varsity Baseball
Top: While on third base, player Greg Diaz is given instruction by his dad, Coach Diaz, on how to steal Home plate in order to put the baby Wolverines on top
Top: While at bat Robert Zaldivar takes a hard breaking ball deep to Right field for a stand up Double.
Junior High and Junior Varsity Base6aCf
Junior Va r s i ty B ase b a ll
The success of our team this year was due to the hard work and desire to excel that our kids exhibited. Our team was lead offensivel y by Gabriel Bustamante and Alex Serna, who both should contribute next year on the varsity level. Defensively, Antonio Rivas l ed the charge playing masterfully on the mound and should contend next year for a starti ng role on the varsity.
Thanks to the players for a great season and to the parents for your support!
Right: Batter Tony Llera shows his patience by holding off on swinging at a high fastbalL late in the game
Jr High Basebal l
The Jr. High baseball team had an outstanding season with a record of 9-1. The team had great offense with a batting average of over .400 and a strong defense. We won the game by using the pitching committee headed by Jimmy Newmeyer and followed by Joaquin Sanchez, Javier Bel-
tran, Alex Sarria, A.J. Correa, and Mark Eric Alvarez.
The first game was won 21-1 against Sacred Heart, then Hol y Rosary, 15-5; St. Agatha, 14-8; and we won with a grand slam by Roberto Zaldivar with a score of 7-2 against Epiphany. During the second half, we lost to St. Agatha 6-3, then we beat Epiphany, 1311; and Holy Rosary g 7. The last game, to clinch the championship for the division, was played against Sacred Heart and we won 10-6.
Top, from left to right: coach Anthony Aguirre, coach Javier Cantens, David Valdes, Jose Diaz, Gabriel Bustamante, Emil Ricart Alex Serna, Alex Ugarte, Antonio Rivas, Derek Leon, Angel Gonzalez, coach Eric Perez.
Bottom, from left to right: Mark Llorente, Mario Quintero, Adrian De los Reyes, George Livermore, David Alonso, Danny Leon, Roger Puerto, Juan Carlos Parets, Michael Merchant.
in was pu Se Botero w or go o n left in regulation. In the next game which was forth · · liver, Bel #l team 1 s e i g the whole game. It finally came down to penalty kicks, where Belen pulled off the
win, and became DISTRICT PIONS!!! They advanced to Regionals where they beat Pace, and then lost to t
The Belen Varsity Soccer team celebrates after accomplishing the impossible and beating the # 1 team in the state, Gulliver, for the District Championship " I have been waiting for this moment all my life, and now it is finally here," said junior
IVarsity Soccer
Jose Rovira.
Senior mid-fielder Rafael Villoldo takes the ball to the right as he prepares for a shot during the District Championship game vs. Gulliver
Junior mid-fielder Jose Rovira steals the ball from Gullivers' Eddy Testa. Rovira made 2nd team All-Dade as a Junior.
Senior forward Marco Botero takes control of the ball before he crosses it. He was the leading scorer of the
First team All-Dade Goalie Christian Banchs makes a spectacular save to prevent the· winning goal.
Senior mid-fielder Danny "Super Star" Arrenas dribbles the ball down the field against Barbara Goleman in the first round of the District Tournament.
team
Back row, from left to right: Pablo TaquecheL Angel Gonzalez, Gaby Berthin, Martin Mendiola, Jose Garrido, Danny Milian, Ivan Santa-Cruz, Jorge Grillo, Christian Banchs, Javier Franco, Christian Pagnussat Frank Batista, Raul Cruz, Diego Morales, Robert Zurita, Jose Rovira, Juan Barreneche, Agustin Ramos, Derrick Welch. Front row, from left to right:Gaby Pelaez, Salmon Fatiman, Eduardo Carreno, Rafael Villoldo, Marco Botero, Luis Patino , Marco Ciocca, Daniel Arrenas, Jose Rodriguez- Torres, Alfredo Socorro
j All photos by Robert Rico
A STRONG FOUNDATION
Soccer is probably the most influential sport that is most well known throughout the world, and because of this, it is probably one of the most influential in Belen. Even more important than Varsity Soccer are the two teams that lead up to it. The Junior High Soccer Team had an incr eadible season going l 4-0- l, winning the
ACC championship. The Junior Varsity team fell behind with a record of 75-3. The loss of key players Robert Zurita and others led to this season. Next year, however, with the addition of fresh blood, they are sure to rebound.
James Pader
Sophomore Guillermo Lagos makes a move to the right to go past a player from Beach High The JV team won the game 1-0.
sports
Sophomore Jeronimo Esteve charges a Beach High player in attempting to block his shot.
I photos by Will Gaitan I
Eight Grade Captain Marco Gonzalez, out dribbles a player as he goes towards the goal for a shot. He was the leading scorer of the team.
Ninth grade defender Carlos Smith clears the ball from in front of the goal. He had an excellent game to prevent Beach High from scoring.
Sophomore Salman Fateman rips a shot for the only goal of the whole game He was later moved up to the Varsity Soccer team
Varsity Cross-Country
The 1996 Belen Cross-Country team continued their dominance over local Wolverines beat many stateolumbus, rank6A, Ransom Everglades, eJaa:-s.. 3A., d A erica •. 1 6A.
The Wolverine Cross - Country team gets together to discuss their strategies before one of their important meets.
photo by Ivan J. Vich
Mikel Llanes and Jose "Peps" Rodriguez- Torres pull ahead of the other runners at Tropical Park.
Exhaustion! Coach Ary Montalvo helps one of his runners cool down after a gut-wrenching race . Coach Montalvo has really helped this team develop a sense of pride.
photo by James Pader
6th Grader David Acosta fights to keep his position as his fellow team mate Andres Escobar struggles to keep up.
The 6th Grade Cross Country team pose for a picture after a 3rd place finish at the Dade County youth Fair, this team ended the season with an exceptional record of 101 wins and only 5 losses.
This year the junior high cross country team's hard work and dedication has payed off. They captured both the Dade County Youth fair title and the All Catholic Conference championship trophy. They finished the year with an outstanding record of 138 wins and only one loss. "This team is filled with talent", said coach Ary Montalvo. Only 13 out of 18 runners ran under 13 minutes in the 2 mile race. Two 8th graders were responsible for leading the team to an incredible season. Next year's junior high team, is composed of 7th and 8th graders. Coach Montalvo commented that "There are a lot of promising 6th graders for the following year."
The 6th grade team has had a somewhat of a disappointing year, with a 3rd place finish in the Dade County Youth fair, and a 2nd place finish in the A. C. C. championship, which they have dominated for the past couple of years. Coach Montalvo attributes this disappointment to a lack of experience. In compensation the 6th grade team still ended with a very good record of 101 wins and only 5 losses, thanks to Alexandra Lucio, and Cristopher Gueits, who lead the team through most of the year. Coach Montalvo expects these two, to step it up and continue their success.
fernando Goudie
by
BACK ROW: Coach Victor Arrieta, Robert Zaldivar, George Palmerala, Christopher Alonso, Shaw Valdes-Fauli, Coach Ary Montalvo.
MIDDLE ROW: Andre Chiriboga, Louis Velasco, Antonio Rodriguez, Alberto Camacho, Brian Oliver.
FRONT ROW: George Massa, Alejandro Lucio, Mitch Del Castillo, Ralph De Armas, Christopher Gueits.
All photos
Coach Victor Arrieta
6th Grader Christopher Gueits leads the pack as he runs his way to a extraordinary season, after helping the cross-country team caputure 3rd place in the Dade County Youth Fair.
6th Grader Ricky Palmerola over takes an opponent as the Baby Wolverines conquer Dade County Youth Fair title.
Sixth Grade/J.H. Cross Country
Servi119 up A Winni119 Season
The Varsity Volleyball team had an incredib l e season, playing against form i dab l e opponents such as Gables and Chaminade, among oth ers. The team remained undefeated t h roughout t h e season. At the Jaguar t ournament, Bele n Jesuit went o n to win the Bronze D ivi sion against Atlantic High School (15-1 1 and 1 5-9).
Top Row: Coach Carlos Zarraga, Michael Santos, Jose Rasco, Marcos Macau.
Bottom Row: Jose Romero, Christian Cuenca, Ricardo Duran, Robert Zurita, Juan Carlos Campo.
photo by Olga Macau
BuntpJ S etJ spike!
Captain Marcos Macau bumps the ball to setter Alex Vazquez while Jose Romero, Kenji Kurenuma, and Robert Zurita prepare to spike the set. Macau was chosen Miami Herald's Volleyball Player of the Year. photo by Will Gaitan
Junior Alex Vasquez shows near perfect form while setting the ball to Jose Rasco Alex has been a starter on the Varsity Volleyball team since his freshman year photo by Will Gaitan
Cuenca looks in amazement as
that Alex Vasquez set for
Chris
Jose Rasco spikes the ball
him.
photo by Will Gaitan
Down fort Count
Undefeated! Distr Champions
Perfect i s the word Zapata, David Lay, Miyou can use to describe chael Llorente, Jorge this years team. With Vigo and Manuel Chica. the combination of tal- Llorente finished state ent and experience the runner up and Vigo wolverines were able to went on to be state have an undefeated champion. "We had a season. With an explo- tremendous amount of sive victory over Baron unity between ourCollier, they gained the selves and with our momentum they need- coach,'' said Andre ed to finish the year off Aguirre. strong. Belen had five Manalo Diaz state qualifiers: Oscar
Sophomore Jose Amaro gets his opponent in a cradle for a quick pin.
photo by Will Gaitan
Senior Michael Llorente tries to control his opponent to earn a victory for his team.
photo by Will Gaitan
earn next seNe, hoping to place another victory under his belt.
Conference Champs! Junior Hi9h VoCCey6aCC
Mark Huesman digs hard to bump the ball to his teammate.
photo by Robert Rico
The All Catholic Conference held the league games at Belen this year. This made the tough schedule a little easier by playing at home. The Junior High Volleyball team was declared All Catholic Conference Champions after defeating a vast array of opponents. The team consisted of eighth graders Alex Sarria, Michael Forrest, Andres Blanco, Jean Paul Chavez, Mark Huisman, Jorge Medina, Michael Morin, Alexander Zuriarrain, seventh graders Michael Carreras, Matthew Llorente, and Michael SanchezAgramonte. With the help of coach Carlos de Zarraga, this talented group of wolverines finished the season with a record of 9 wins and 1 loss.
Team members Alex Sarria and Michael Sanchez await the coaches call to be subbed in.
photo by Robert Rico
The team huddles before every set for some final words of advice from their coach and themselves.
photo by Robert Rico
Belen returns a serve for a sideout during a match against St. Timothy. The outcome of the game was another win for the Wolverines.
photo by Robert Rico
Maki a
sThe Varsity Swim team had an outstanding season. They accomplished more than anyone expected both in and out of the water. " Waking up at 4:30A.M. and being with the same people until 7:30 P.M. creates a special bond between athletes. I feel that I can trust my teammates with anything. It's as if we are a big family, " said Robert Riley when asked about his relationships with his team.
The Wolverines, defending champions in both Youth Fair Invitational and the District 4-A Championships, once again proved their dominance in the water by winning both meets. They also recaptured the A.C.C. State championship title by over points. By qualifying eleven swimmers for the State Championship, Belen broke back into the top ten, capturing a seventh place finish, after a rebuilding period of three years. Outstanding stars on the team were First Team All - Dade qualifiers Senior Juan Jacoby, Juniors Frank
Juan Jacoby glides to victory in the 100 Yard Breastsroke event at the All Catholic State Invitational.
Quesada and Ricardo Piedra, and Sophomore Robert Riley. Also making their mark were seniors Eddy Vadia (captain) and Eric de Angulo, Juniors Philip Riveron, Luis Rivera, and Fernando Goudie, Sophomore Alex Manrique, and Freshmen Mike Perez who captured a Second Team AllDade position. When asked about his feelings on the team, coach Kirk Peppas stated, '' This year's team had a great season. I feel that this is only a taste of what is to come. If the same leadership is shown the next few years, Belen will have the potential to score in the top three at the state competition. '' Swimming has always been a strong sport at Belen and will continue to be one under the leadership of Kirk Peppas and Robert Caragol. by Robert Riley
Coaches Kirk Peppas and Robert Caragol laugh after being thrown in by the victorious Belen swimmers.
Wolverine swimmers are accompanied by the Lourdes swim team in celebration, as both teams captured first ever Dade County Youth Fair titles. Belen edged out Columbus by one point to gain the victory
Sophomore Alex Manrique takes a commanding lead in the 200 Medley Relay at the District 4- A Championship.
The team huddles for the captains to say a few last words before the match.
State champion senior Jorge Vigo engages to a match that will last in t o overtime photo by Will Gaitan
Junior Jay Carreno puts all his effort into pinning his opponent. photo by Will
photo by Robert Rico
Gaitan
First Team All - Dade swimmer Frank Quesada looks at the starter for instructions.
Senior and First Team All - Dade swimmer Juan Jacoby gets ready to blast off in his leg of the 4 x 100 yard freestyle relay .
All photos taken by Mrs Quesada
TCH POINT
This years Varsity Tennis team can be characterized with the words ''new'' and ''refurbished.'' After last years marvelous son, the team lost seven of it's nine members, leaving them tie hope for this years season. Surprisingly, under the ship and guidance of coach rick Collins, the team ended with an outstanding lO win and 4 loss season. They ended up fifth in the district. The team was lead by Junior Jonathen De Vera and Junior Jonathen De Vera
a forehand winner to
a district match.
Senior Fernando Tur who with a combined effort made many of the wins possible. Eighth grader Jonathan Duarte, Sophmore Mark Guzman, and Junior Jerry Prieto also contributed greatly to the success of the team. though the members of this years team were mostly comers, the team was able to earn a respectful record and ish the season strong.
Fernando Tur
smashes
win
Top, from left to right :Patrick Collins, Jonathan De Vera, Fernando Tur, Jhonathan Duarte, Mark Guzman, Gerardo Prieto. Bottom, from left to right:Aiejandro Usategui, Jorge Grillo, Alan Pereiras, and Danny Lucio
Senior Fernando Tur returns a backhand, adding a little slice to make it harder for his opponent to hit
Coach Patrick Collins counsels a player as he distributes the cans of balls before a match.
I photos by Steve Giralt
Junior Jerry Prieto hits a serve on match point It was an ace to win the match.
Junior Jorge Grillo returns a forehand to his opponent at Belen in a winning effort against a district team.
A(ways One Step Ahead
- District Champs 7tfi strai9fit year! -
The Belen Track team get together before their Regionals. Back row: Jorge Landa, Eddie Acosta , Mikel Llanes , Vince Cartaya , Jorge Bustamante Middle row : Nick Garcia , Eric Montalvo , Eddie Cepero, Manolo Diaz, Marcos Macau, Alex Villasuso Front row: Alexis Mantecon , Arturo Balandra, Alex Burgos, Diego Morales, Jose Rodrigues- Torres, Alex Bertran photo by Olga Macau
Alex Villasuso focuses on his technique while in mid air photo by Geoff Bass
Mikel Llanes literally "flies " over each hurdle, while Vince Cartaya awaits to leap over his photo by Geoff Bass
Manolo Diaz has taken off to a great start whi le Nick A yolo looks on photo by Geoff Bass
winning second place in the Boy's 4 x 800 at the 4A State Competition.
Erik Montalvo, Eddie Acosta and Alexis Mantecon set a pace at the head of the pack.
photo by Geoff Boss
Jorge Bustamante , Alexis Mantecon, Mikel Llanes and Eric Montalvo feel relieved after
photo by Mrs. Mantecon
-captain Manan easy ory for the lverines hoto by Geoff Bass
J.H. Track & Field
This group of young men dedicated themselves to accomplish one goal: to win back the ACC Championship after last year's third place finish. With the help of head coach, Ary Montalvo, this goal seemed well within reach. The team dominated every meet with superb performance from Robert Zaldivar, Alex Bedoya, and Jorge Palmerola. They went on to win Knights of Colombus Champions, All Catholic Conference Champions, and Wolverine Relays Champions. Their sole loss was at a rain-delay meet where half of the team assumed the competition was over and went home. Belen won the ACC by 63 points. Great job!
Below: Alex Bedoya leaps over his high jump obstacle at one of the many track and field meets.
Below: Albert Camacho shows his endurance during one of the many difficult races for the Junior High Track team.
Above: Robert Zaldivar paces himself during one of the junior high meets.
Sports-Junior High Track
Drive for show) Putt for til£ Win
The golf team this season team finished 5th in was led by a young group, trict championships, and that worked as a team. placed 9th out of 26 With five teams in the Dade County ble mentions selections, Youth fa i r Tournament. and a II five Many individual records classmen, this team has a where aquired along t h e bright future. The team way. Such as the lowest was helped by Ed score in Belen history, by tion, who coached the Jeronimo Esteve who team and showed them shot a one under par at the direction to a great Coste del Sol. The team season. The team lowest score was by Luis ished with a 14 2 record Martinez, with a 40 beatingsuchteamsasSt. age. t h e team went Brendan, Pace, Dade through a transition year Christian, and Curly. The in which the learned alot. teams only losses was to Next year th i s team will be Melbourne Catholic, and a force to be reckoned Westminster Christian in with. close tournaments. the
Left : Luis Martinez chips a twenty yarder from the rough for a hole in par. Wow! What, what a fantastic chip
Left : Eric Alexander concentrates as he carefully measures a crucial putt .
Top: Jeronimo Esteve warms up by practicing his drives at the Costa del Sol range.
Sports-Golf
When the bell rings at 2:45, students are still in Belen. The halls still ring with the talk of the day. Students should be going home but they remain. Why are they still here? These Belen students are here for one purpose: clubs. All the students that remain after school in Belen are involved in one, or many, of Belen' multitude of clubs.
There is a Belen club for every type of person. For those who feel an inclination towards the arts, there's the ALPHA clubs. For those who enjoy a battle of the minds, there's the Chess club. For those who enjoy acting or arguing, there's Forensics. No matter who you are, if you are a student in Belen, there's surely a club for you.
James Pader
St Mary's students are always in a good mood when Belen students arrive. The C.R.E S.T. program contributes much good to these students.
I.D.D. volunteers get a bit wet washing a 300ZX, owned by Belen's Manalo Diaz. The donations go to benefit people who suffer from Iodine Deficiency Disorder.
George Valle assists a St. Francis Xavier's student with his daily studies This is just one example of how Belen students contribute their services to C.R.E.S.T schools
A C.R E.S.T. student eagerly awaits the arrival of Belen students
__.._..,.raCCy Ricli
Service is a major aspect of the Bel en Community. It teaches students the value of giving. It exposes one to the less fortunate le in society. Belen students have greatly contri e · services for such singleservice projects as . (Culturally Rich Ethnic Schools Togeth <line Deficiency Disorder). (Forth Belen Key Club has been r gniz for their efforts.
C.R.E.S.T. vides uc Catholic schools as: St. Fr i 's, and St. Mary's Cathedral in t town are is program provides the child ch ols with tutoring, sports education, and s e to talk to.
The I.D.D. project is desi rovide monetary contributions through collecti ri ves, car washes, and road blocks. These contributions go to aid people who suffer from iodine deficiency disorder.
As followers of Christ we are called to contribute to the less fortunate. The Belen community continues to fulfill the ideal of the Jesuit education.
Victor Gilpin
Key club volunteers Jonathan De Vera and Alejando Sedeno rinse off a Honda Accord at an I.D.D. carwash.
Alex Batista, Co - Chairman of the C.R E S T program, spends most of his Wednesdays with the C R.E.S.T. schools He takes some time to explain a math problem to one of the St. Mary's students.
Future Student Council nominees listen to the wise words from Mr. Rodriguez after the nominations.
Fr Garcia hands an award to Alex Rico.
Mark Llorente and Johnathan Lledo get their picture taken while eating dinner at the Student Council Banquet.
All photos by: Ivan J. Vich Organization
President Daniel Dominguez fields a question from junior Armando Castro.
Future Leade-rs in the Makift9
May, the time the students are counting down the days till summer, and so are the teachers. When finals are the new public enemy, and the most important of all, it's when the old student council says good-bye and the new council is ushered in.
Assistant principal Armando Rodriguez directed the festiveties as student council president, Daniel Dominguez. The ceremony, held here in Belen, was not only to bid to these two fine leaders good-bye, it was also to welcome t h e newly elected staff of Carlos Curbelo, president, and Nichlas Calzada, vice president. In front of all the members of student council of that year, the two new administrators were sworn into office and each gave their own inauguration speech to tell of what to expect in the incoming year.
At the end of the night after all the awards were handed out and all the speeches given, the members of the student council for the 96-97 academic year went home with plans for the future elections and maybe a future presidency lingering in their head. Erimar van der Osten, had this to say,
"I feel this was one of the best student councils i n years." Hopefully, those days of excellence will continue on for many years to come.
Patrick Hidalgo, Eduardo Carreno show their humorous expression when David Hernandez cracks a joke
In his opening speech, Father Marcelino Garcia S.J. congratulates the inductees and encourages others to follow in their footsteps.
photo by Robert Rico
The school listens attentively as Ahmed Riesgo presents his speech photo by Mike Perez
Le Crem de Ca Crem
An old proverb states that "one gets out of school what one puts into it.'' On March l9, l997, the induction ceremonies for National Honors Society, National Junior Honors Society, Senior and Junior Beta, and Spanish Honors Society took place. Although many students find that the ceremony isn't necessary because it blatantly states that they do not work hard enough to receive recognition. It is a shining moment for the many who have met and surpassed the requirements necessary for acceptance.
The ceremony commenced with father Eduardo Alvarez's S.J. introduction.Afterwards, the executives of the various clubs introduced their staff members as they lit candles representing various virtues. At the end of the ceremony, father Marcelino Garcia S.J. gave a speech congratulating all the inductees and encouraging others to follow in their footsteps.
by frank Quintana
The banners of the three honors societies are displayed on the gym wall . photo by Robert Rico
Requirements
3.5 GPA for two consecutive semesters
During a meeting, Silvia Hernandez discusses the organization's upcoming projects.
photo by Ivan Vich
Gerald del Amo recieves his award from Father Marcelino Garcia S.J.
photo by Robert Rico
Seniors Patrick Hildalgo, Nick Pelleya, and Juan Barreneche light their candles prior to reciting their pledge.
photo by Mike Perez
Members of the Junior National Honors Society light their candles before their induction.
photo by Robert Rico
N ationa( Beta Cfu6
Organizations Requirements
3.0 GPA for two consecutive semesters
Eddie Gonzalez, president of the Beta Club, gives his introductory speech
photo by Robert Rico
Rodrigo Gasteazorro is inducted into the Beta Club during his senior year.
photo by Robert Rico
Officers of the Spanish Honors Society Alex Torra, Albert
and Eduardo
wait patiently for the commencement of the ceremony.
Requirements
Overall B+ average in Spanish for three consecutive semesters
Spanish Honors Society
Parlede,
Cozarri
photo by Robert Rico
Richard Rasco is awarded for his excellence in spanish.
photo by Robert Rico
Arturo Balandra, president of the Spanish Honors Society, presents his speech in spanish.
photo by Robert Rico
The Knowfecf9e Bow(
NThis year has been a fantas-tic year for Belen in academ-ics. Belen has showed that knowledge truly is power. for the first time in history, Belen hosted the Annual Knowledge Bowl in our new-ly remodeled auditorium. Such participants as Carlos Curbelo and Ivan Santacruz tried their best to lead the team to victory. The group did an excellent job, and will most likely improve in the next coming years.
Geoffrey Valdes
Ivan Santacruz, Carlos Curbelo and Pedro Carrillo appear lost in thought.
All photos by, Ivan J. Vich
Ivan Santacruz ponders the question
Carlos Curbelo and Ivan Santacruz eagerly await the next question.
The Dade County Championship trop_hy shines proud.
Knowledge Bowl
Afterscfwo(
Alex Torra, Omar Miranda, Eddie Carreno, and Robert GarciaTunon act out a scene from their play.
photo by Ivan J. Vich
At night, Belen students gather to observe the sky as the Hale-Bopp comet flies through the sky.
photo by Ivan J. Vich
Extracurricular activities dominate afterschool Belen life. Some of the organizations that have achieved great success are the astronomy and meteorology clubs, the forensics team, the debate team, and the first place group of students at the spanish convention. All individuals involved in these activities spend their time diligently, trying to become the best at what they do. Success is not always measured by first place trophies, although they do come in handy. It is measured by the amount of hard work and dedication put forth by all involved.
Julio C. Bertemati
Robert Garcia- Tunon receives an award, for his outstanding performance, after a long and successful year in forensics.
photo by Juan Valles
Raul Morin, Joesph Fernandez , Emil Ricart, Eugenio Duarte, Oscar Fernandez, Edward Cozarri, Guillermo Lagos, and Manuel Santana pose with their trophies that were won at the Spanish convention in Orlando.
photo by Robert Rico
Frank Garcia, Johnathan Alfonso, Mario Rojas, Ernesto Lorenzo, Gabriel Berthin, Luis Pitino, Sabastian Del Castillo, Eddie Carreno, Omar Miranda, Robert Garcia-Tunon , Mr. Leo Williams, Alex Torra, Tommy Llamas, David Masvidal, Daniel Carrero, Robert Fojo, David Hernandez , James Pader, Tony Garcia, and Carlos Barcia pose with all the trophies won throughout the school year.
photo by Michael Perez Extra -Curricular
Geoffrey Valdes
500 S.W. 127th Ave.
Miami, Fl. 33184
I lett the and the world
Sincerely, Valdes ding this er to correct ve in harmony everywhere.
Pat Collins, Amnesty's supervisor and head, and senior Eduardo Carreno, Amnesty's p resident, stand side by side among the other members of Amnesty: junior Stephen Farinas, and seniors Umberto Guida and Patrick Hidalgo.
photo by Robert Rico
A partial view of the U.N. Conference Building is taken with these gentlemen as recognition and memories on what they did and see in those few days in New York.
This is the man, senior and Student Council Pres. Danny Dominguez, whom among all who went from Belen shined with much appreciation and inspiration in the debates.
The United Nations Conference General Assembly at New York held about 2,300 students from across the nation. The representatives of Dominica get this awesome site every the U.N. meets.
Senior Patrick Hidalgo listening in on the translation of the debates going on with frustration in his eyes, as our other men look at the camera portraying to us that they've been there for quite some time now All in aiL they had their fun.
Photos by Patrick Collins
Our Model U.N. crew outside a cafe on Wallstreet: (from left) seniors Humberto Guida and Michael Aguilo; supervisor and chief Orlando Gutierrez ; junior Jonathan Torrens; senior Patrick Hidalgo; juniors Michael Piniero and Daniel Lopez; senior Danny Dominguez; and sophomores Juan Carlos Rasco, Robert Riley and Richard Rasco.
Here are the Model U.N members with high spirits; eager to begin the debates for the first day. Little do they know they will be spending most of their days and hours in the General Assembly for an average of ten hours a day. Ouch!
Just recently, a group of ten Belen students, accompanied by Mr Orlando Gutierrez and Mr. Pat Collins, flew to New York City, to represent Belen in the largest Model United Nations Conference held in the United States.
The National tligh School Model United Nations (NtiSMUN), which took place from April9 -12, was attended by over 2300 students representing 180 nations. The Belen squad was assigned the Commonwealth of Dominica, a small island nation in the Caribbean.
The conference commenced with an opening ceremony that was held in the actual United Nations General Assembly chambers, at the edge of the East River. "It was really an honor to share seats with ambassadors from the most powerful nations in the world," said junior Michael Pifliero.
Led by head delegate Danny Dominguez, the team debated over ten hours each day and barely found time to sleep. "It was a very gruelling schedule, and it took a great deal of energy and willpower to keep on fighting,'' said Dominguez.
Throughout the conference the group had the opportunity to attend speeches and seminars by the Undersecretary General and several other foreign dignitaries. "The level of planning and organization for this conference was excellent, ''praised sophomore Juan Carlos Rasco.
After four days of continuous committee sessions the ten students eagerly welcomed their free day to roam the city . After attending mass at the famous Saint Patrick's CathedraL they visited the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Among them was sophomore Ricky Rasco, who said, "It was a great cultural experience and really made the trip complete.''
Although the team did not place for any awards, they were optimistic about the future. Asked about their chances next time, junior Danny Lopez said enthusiastically, ''With the experience we've gained this year, I'm confident we'll be serious contenders for the '98 conference."
by Jonathan Torr
Sponsoring Cuftures afuf Cu&uraC Events
The C.E.L.A .C, or Centro de Estudios Latino Americanos y Carlbe, club is the main focus of the cultural dept. CELAC is a club that is dedicated to Latin American studies and is soley seniors. Mr. Rodriguez, who heads the club, sets aside a week especially dedicated to Latin America,with emphasis on Cuba. This week is full with activities as well as several speakers. The week was topped of by two events in particular, the Cuban Confrene which was held in the auditorium and given by two very influntial
Organizations
cubans in our community, the second event was the lechon lunch held for seniors and the faculty. Following the lunch, the seniors were permitted to play dominos and listen to Latin music. Senior Alex Villasuso commented on wearing a Guayabera to school, '' I wore it to add to the cuban atmosphere." The week turned out to be very positive, and although the club is small, it is very useful in teaching the students about their heritage.
Dr. Juan Clark gives his presentation to the senior class. He is a Physics professor at Miami-Dade Community College, and has written many books about the history of Cuba.
Mr. Orlando Gutierrez and Roberto Rodriguez- Tejera sit back as Dr Juan Clark answers a question during the Cuban Confrence.
A group of seniors count up ther points after a hard fought game of dominos
The "lechonazo cooking crew" takes a break from a full day of preparing and cooking the lechon.
Rene Leon relaxes and catches a breeze while playing the guitar. He is undergoing his process of digestion.
During a CELAC sponsered event, a Red Cross representative talks to a group of seniors about the importance of giving blood .
The whole senior class gets together to share memories about all their years at Belen while playing dominos after such a fulfilling lunch.
Senior
photos by Robert Rico
In this scene from "The Interview," Eduardo Carreno tells Alexander Torr a to look at what he has in his hand. All this while Thomas Llama wonders what is going on.
photo by Robert Rico
Alexander Torra delivers a touching speech at the A.L.P.H.A. talent show, as he introduces the new president and vice-president into office.
This year the International Thespian Society performed "The Interview". "The Interview" was a play about the miscommunications in society The International Thespian Society did such a good job with it, that they were invited to perform at the Actors Playhouse. 126 Humanities photo by Robert Rico
photo by Robert Rico
Excellent Member Award at the ·A.L.P.H.A. talent show.
photo by Robert Rico
A.L.l-' .H.A.
Under the presidency of Omar Miranda and Alex rah the A.L.P.H.A. club has reached new heights. At the beginning of this school year, through a well organized membership drive, A.L.P.H.A. has become one of the biggest clubs in Belen. More that 150 active members attended the Monday meetings and the weekend field trips. Thanks to the moderators, Beatriz Jimmenez and Dora Haibi the A.L.P.H.A. club attended more than 75 activities, including over 20 plays. A.L.P.H.A. attended productions of: Man of Ia Mancha, Waiting for Godot, The Interview, and many independent productions of other plays.
Another highlight of this year was the A.L.P.H.A. trip to Walt Disney, and their production studio. The A.L.P.H.A. members were taken behind the scenes and shown how the Disney movies were produced. The A.L.P.H.A. bers were taught how to create their own animation cells as well as how to crate their own full length feature movie.
Over all this year was a success. Hopefully under the guise of the new president Anthony Garcia and vice president David Hernandez the club can continue to flourish.
David Hernandez
Top: Alex Bienes leads the first A.L P H.A. photo workshop of the year. photo by Ivan J. Vich
Left : The senior members of I.T.S pose for a final picture with their beloved coach , Leo Williams They will be missed by the rest of I.T.S. , but hopefullv the new members of I.T.S. can be as A.L.P.H.A.
It's Your Pfanet
The Belen Boyscout troop toke a couple of days off and ploy volleyball at South Beach.
Environmental
The Belen Boyscout troop get down and dirty as they hike the mud flops of the Everglades.
The Belen Boyscout troop spend a weekend canoeing through the murky waters of Florida's Everglades.
The Belen Boyscout troop spends a won-
derful weekend hiking and camping in North Carolina's beautiful mountain side.
IThe Belen Boyscout troop roughs it out during their Everglades campout.
The Belen Jesuit Preparatory School Environmental Club is an organization with a goal to help the environment in any way possible We feel that as ''Men for others'' we mu st giv e something bQ.c to our environment which jli»'es us ,5e much. The club fu t 1993-1994 school year a-u,d was · rected by Mrs. Miriam Herna dez. Eduardo Placer, the club's fir president set the foundation to help make our club wha is day and what it wiD be in the tune. Eduardo Placer with the Guidance of rs Miriam Hernandez and Mrs. Lourdes Echego yen made hat had been a dream for many · rs. In the 1994-1995 school year, the Belen Jesuit Preparatory llool Environmental Library wa inaugurated. On the night of the inauguration Eduardo presented with a proclamatio whiQh we so proudly hang in our Environmental Library, now located ·n the Science Lab. This library is open to every member of the Belen Community and has many ooks and other p r inted material that enriches our und erstanding of the problems our environment faces today.
The club has participated in a wide variety of community programs as
well as activi ti es to help it's members understand preblems the environment faces today. The club has articipated .in numerous Bay cleanUps like Baynanza ' 97 which i s spons ored by DERM, the depart-
groups of two, each group is then assigned a topic in which they must do research in problems that the environmental faces today. The day of the Summit the groups meet wi h others schoo ls that research e same problem and discuss in which the pro blem can be resolve
This club is very proud to have its first president, Eduardo Place , be one of the s tudent direc ors f this organizati on.
Every year the club has an Environmental Awareness Week, in which qualifi ed sp eakers make pre entati on s t o th e students on environmental i ss ues. This year we wer very fortunate t o have a gu st speaker from the Museum of Science. Her presentafo of live and endangered animal was very interesting to the student and faculty.
ment of Environmental Resource Management. It has also attended the annual Yes (youth environmental summit), that takes place i n Broward country. In this summit the club's member are separat ed into
this year a new page was added to the history of the E n ·ronmental Club. Mr. Rolando Sucena, 9t grade cie nce teacher and a very qualified person in environmental issues was appointed moderator of the organization. We hope that the 1997-1998 year be for all of us as great as this one has been.
Jorge A. Fernandez
The Dignity
The Respect Life club is icated to the preservation of the lives of unborn children, those on death row and other human ings unable to protect selves. Looking around the school, one can regularly see the posters and pictures that they play to better communicate their message to the Belen community. The most memorable of these was a drawing of a young girl standing before a judge and ing the judge questions. Among these were: Can I drink? To which the answer was No. Can I smoke? No. The clincher to this series of questions was: Can I have an abortion? Yes.
The Respect Life club is also active in other activities such as the Walk for Life. This club works diligently in school and out to teet the life of all those human beings that are unable to protect themselves from others.
James Pader
Alex Torr a and Felice Gorordo discuss the dignity of humanity at a recent club meeting.
photo by Gabriel Jacobson
Maria Ortega explaining the basic premise behind the Respect Life club.
photo by Gabriel Jacobson
Maria Ortega explaining the Biblical import of the dignity of human life.
photo by Gabriel Jacobson
Tony Perez and an eigthgrader face off in one of the weekly after-school meetings
Christopher Zacarias, probably the most talented chess player in our school, faces off while Tony Perez plays in the back ground.
The Chess club is composed of a group of stu dents who go to the science lab every Thursday and play chess. According to Mr. Sam Vega, the club is, at this point, only an interest group. The students involved attend the meetings as a matte of choice. The club charges a 50 cent fee for an hour r e any club would charge due . This is do that the club can purchase new equipment and other necessaries . Chess is, historically, a game for great minds. Man y famous tacticians and warlG>rds have used chess to enhance their strategies and tactics in battle. Chess was also a game of the rich and a game of the wealthy. Many nobles have played chess and have been recorded at it including Napoleon
The most important part of the chess game is the board and the pieces which are placed on it. However, without the minds behind the movements, chess would be a lifeless, boring game.
Class adviser Aimee Busquet helps Editor-in-Chief Alexis Mantecon decide on the layout of the next issue's front page.
Daniel Rodriguez distributes the October issue
Staff Writer Carlos Curbelo argues about his deadline being to soon with Advisor Aimee Busquet as Huberto Gu ida agrees with him.
Where is the Voice?
Vincam is one of the most well rounded classes in Belen. It offers studentsexcellent journalistic experience, skills for running a business, and newspaperproduction. This year's Vincam is striving to publish eight issues under the direction of class adviser Ms. Aimee Busquet. Ms. Busquet noticed many changes this year. "The Juniors are psyched, the Seniors are providing great leadership skills for the newcomers and is sense of unity in the classroom.''
Vincam would like to have no trative participation in the censoring of des. When Opinions Editor Patrick Hidalgo was asked what his feelings on Belen's censoring policy was he responded, ''To some extent I understand the schools cerns in wanting to maintain a certain tation in the community; however, I truly feel its a shame when the school lets this concern overcome their main goal of ming us into educated individuals. They constantly do this to us by limiting our creativity and making us cater our opinions to those that the school wants to express. Assistant principal of Belen Jesuit, Mr. Nunez, responded to the issue of soring. "In a school newspaper censorship will either exist or not exist. The tration of Belen has the responsibility to abide by the values of the Church in not allowing any articles that contradicts the teachings of the Catholic Church. fore censorship is necessary to exist in Belen's school newspaper Vincam. ''
Victor Gilpin
Humberto Guida discusses an idea for his next story with Advisor Aimee Busquet as Daniel Rodriguez leaves to work on his computer.
of Vincam to eager readers of the schools paper. (Center picture) Victor Ruiz reads the features article.
All photos by Michael Perez.
Vincam
Success is usually based on accomplishments. If this is the case, then this year's production of the yearbook was on the mark. "This year's yearbook ss had a hardworking b dents," said I advisor of E o yearbook better
Thanks to the help o advisor Ignacio Font, Teresita Campos, and editor-in-chief Robert Zurita, this year's book will be ready before any other year. "The success in this class was based
on the unity and good relationship between the junior and senior members of the class," said junior photographer Ivan J. Vich. There was a lot of work involved in putting the yearbook together. Due to the efficiency of the class, this wo
riel Jacobson feelings of the whole yearbook staff when he said, "Even though production is really hard work, it pays off at the end. It was a growing experience for all of us."
Armando Castro
Art Editor Alex Villasuso creatively prepares a drawing for the yearbook. photo by Steve Giralt
Members of the yearbook staff discuss some major decisions on the production of the book.
photo by Ivan J. Vich
Robert Zurita explains to the class the proper cropping procedure.
photo by Ivan J. Vich
uIn keeping with the legends of Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, and Jesus Christ, teachers have sought to inspire, to create a burning curiosity as well as a passion for knowledge. They are the pillars of society From the young i sionable minds they instructed will spring an e<:lucated society open to intelectual exploration. Teachers are committed to serving their community in order to create a more hopeful future. This is why we must strive to create a society of free thinkers. It is teachers who foster the seed of knowledge into the directionless minds youth. They are the ones who mold ordinary men into greats. It was a poor teacher, Jesus of Nazareth, who radically changed the World almost two thousand years ago. His message of love,hope and sympathy live on today through the countless lessons we are taught. For this we would like to extend our greatest thanks to the many educators who have given selflessly of themselves in order to soften a heart and open a mind.
by Alfred Fernandez
owards a Better ommorow
The task of managing a school such as Belen requires much time, dedication, and experience. One of the m ost significant changes made to more effectively run the school was th e merging of the offices of presid ent and principal. Thirteen years ago, Father Marcelino Garcia S.J. b ecame the president of the scho ol. At that time, Father Figueredo S.J. was the principal of the s chool. Several years later, upon retirement he was replaced by Fa ther Izquirdo S.J. Under Father I zquirdo's leadership, Belen made the move to consolidate the two o ffices. At this time, Father Garcia was offered the new position and he accepted. This lead him t o become closer to executive assis tant principal Leopolda Nunez Father Marcelino S.J. refers to him as, " a very helpful person, w ho displays the true spirit of the society of Jesus." Leopolda Nunez already had experience in Belen 's administrative department due t o his position as Dean of Students in the old Belen building. Since they met both have worked to gether in order to improve
Belen's standards. Beginning in 1986, Belen started to prepare for the long and tedious accreditation process. The school promptly began assessing its curriculum and other programs. In preparation for accreditation, teachers, including Leopolda Nunez, returned to the university in order to earn Bachelors and PhD ' s. Belen also evaluated its academic standards and philosophies. Father Garcia refers to the accreditation process as a blessing because, " it was a discovery of our identity, strong points and weaknesses." Leopolda Nunez says that " out of all the things that came from the acreditation, probably the best is the fact that we now have an orginization to back our statements and academic standards." Father Marcelino and Leopolda Nunez have both worked together for many years to make this possible and are pleased with the result. They are both examples of how experience, dedication, and teamwork can pay off.
Frank Quintana
Besides his busy administrative schedule, Leopoldo Nunez still manages to squeeze time to teach a sixth period Art History class.
After many years in the Jesuit order, Father Marcelino Garcia, S.J. celebrates school wide masses with Father Pedro Cartaya S.J. photo by Steve Giralt
photo by Robert Rico
Father Marcelino Garcia, S.J. gives one of his many inspiring speeches at a school assembly
Leopolda Nunez sets an example by receiving Holy communion at a school mass before going out to distribute it himself
willing and ready to congratulate hard working students,
photo by Steve Giralt
photo by Robert Rico
Always
Father Marcelino Garcia, S.J. and Leopolda Nunez hand out medals at the academic awards ceremony.
photo by Steve G' Marcelino /Nunez
Grace Acosta looks on with pride as she views the new
meal plan in action.
photo by Robert Rico
"I like your class!" Armando Rodriguez prepares to deliver a speech at the awards ceremony.
photo by Robert Rico
Grace Acosta, Brian Wentzel and Beatriz Jimenez look on with pride as another student receives a medal at the awards ceremony.
Leo Nunez beating the rush to get his p icture taken on photo day.
photo by Robert Rico
photo by Robert Rico
Assistant Prin ci pals
to sun down, representing our c President is one man. He can assistants that take care of th .----- Marcelino-Garcia, S.J. has a full just too busy for.
The work of the assistants ri raisers to taking a memo to b "What ever Marcelino wants, I d "
r a-.11-l::l' l e land. tie works from sun up arm. But nevertheless, the this situation, he has o In the same spirit Fr 11 to do the work that he is
There are five V.P.'s at Belen. Eac oft em is e ifferent administrative duty. Leo Nunez is the first of these. · th As · harge of Academics. He is responsible for getting seniors e elective tHe want to be in. tie is also responsible for the censorship publications . Armando Rodriguez is the Assistant Principal in charge of a1s1ng. to him ve two raffles a year, many banquets (both sport and acade · related), and all se ia a ·mties (ring ceremony, senior dance, graduation, etc.) .Rodriguez also responsible fo f • g directly with the student council. Grace Acosta is th A · t Principal in charge of cipline. She is in charge of student behavior and appear :anks to her tireless e rts, e have new uniforms. Brian Wenzel is Assistant Principal i arg of admissions. tie is tli son in charge of testing and admitting new students. He s also he man responsibl e new meal plan. The last principal is Beatriz Jimenez. ·ab · uite simply anything o one by anyone else. It's a dirty job and not enou ople appreciate wha o, but we here at yearbook appreciate what the assistant principals do.
Alex Rico
Brian Wentzel finishes going over some papers before going to teach his psychology class.
photo by Robert Rico
Seek God in everything,'' is Ignatius' most famous phrase that speaks for itself. Jesuits, whether they are a priest, an accountant or e dedicated pupils of the Socie J su '' helping others throughou munities. Ignatius, found of uit Order, came upon the toea o a society during his time spent reading books on chivalry while his s attered leg was healing. In 1540, the ecognition of Pope Paul IlL I atius an his followers decided to lJ · religious order called the Soci sus.''
With the birth of the Jesuit Order came the beginning of the Jes · Since then, the Jesuits have e enced success. Their word rea China, India and the Americas in e than two centuries. But they have also experienced persecutions. They even suffered up ression in 1773, lasting to 181 he o e p· s bra nt
Br. Willy Garcia- Turion lecturing a group of students on a brief history on St. Ignatius in the "new" auditorium. He took matters in to his own hands by teaching 10th grade Theology through Fr. Hernandez's physical dilemma.
Fr. Eddy Alvarez, S.J. and Fr. Eddy? Senior Eduardo Carre rio impersonates Fr. Eddy, philosophy teacher for the Senior class, and both pose for the camera after a successful performance of the Senior Skit.
Alejandro Villasuso
President-Principal Fr . Marcelino Garcia, S.J. blesses the Belen community at a ceremonial mass at the gymnas ium as Deacon Robert O'Malley and Fr. Pedro Cartaya, S.J. bow their heads in praise.
All photos by: Robert
Rico
Fr. Gustavo Sardil"\a, S.J. -spiritual counsellor of 6th, 7th, and 8th grade - is consulting a student about the needs for an education in the real world while strolling through a hallway in the Intercontinental during the Belen A ward Ceremony.
a successful recovery from
Fr. Pedro Cartaya, S.J., head of the Astronomy Club, takes some students to the observatory and shows them the procedures on getting the weather forecast of Miami in the computer.
After
a heart attack, Fr. Victor Hernandez, S.J., teacher of 10th grade Theology, is back reviewing some papers in his office. He came in '94 to Belen from Santo Domingo recommended by Fr. Marcelino.
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Picture
Javier Aragamasilla
Faculty
Picture
Miriam CamboMartinez
Picture
Father Eduardo Alvarez, S.J.
Picture
Robert Caragol
Picture Not Taken
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Teresita Elias
Mercedes Garcia
Eric Hansen
Marina Hernandez
Picture
Rafael Fernandez
Picture
Father Jose M. Izquierdo, S.J.
Lily Filer
Picture
Beatriz Jimenez
Father Victor Hernandez , S J
Picture Not Taken
Mario Parra
Picture
Frank Pichardo
Picture Not Taken Gonzalez Ramirez
Picture Not Taken
Ignacio Rasco
Picture Not Taken
Gabriel Perez-Giz
Richard Stuart Picture
Carol Vila
Ester Suarez collects money, while eagar Belen students rush to grab their lunch
Rosa Mas spends hours ofter school cleaning the desk so the students will have a clean classroom.
All photos by Ivan Vich
Cafeteria and Maintenance Making a cCiffrence.
Jorge Emerio Albelo and Juan Sierra work hard to fix a problem with a pipe.
Mario Parra helps out the school by starting to repaint the buildings .
Reniel Segarra works hard to move old com puter equipment from the lab down to the library.
Ernest Gusman Helps out the cafeteria staff by emptying out the trash.
It is the struggle to achieve that has enabled men to improve their lots. We struggle to achieve that one glorious moment when all our tiring efforts pay off and we finally achieve the recognition we have earned. We must endure to become "Gold tested in fire". Through our many struggles we achieve purity and strength. It is the struggles of life which enable us to savor the sweet taste of victory. Goals easily attained required no discipline to attain them. It is the sbive for perfection and learning hat perfection is uninable that brings the man out of the adolescent. We as underdassmen understand this lesson well and strive each day to expand our minds and broaden our horizons for victory is not a destination but the result of a journey filled with many struggles.
Alfred Fernandez
TENTH GRADE
Underclassmen
Aenlle,Julio
Duany,
Acosta, David
Alberdi, Juan
Alfonso, Rolando
Andrade, Jomathan
cartos
Escobar, Andres
Escobedo, Emesto
Espinosa, Carlos
Espinosa, Victor
Fernandez, C A Ferrer, Miguel Fiorenza, Aurelio Fontela, Gabriel Frederick, Joseph Fusco, Andrew Gallardo, Leone! Garcia, Anthony Garcia, Jorge Garcia, Jose Garcia-Romeu, Daniel Gascon, Ronn
Gonzalez, Daniel Gonzalez, George Gonzalez, Louis Gonzalez, Michael Gonzalez-Ruaix, A Gramateges, Ryan Groover, Nicholas Guardiola, Alejandro Gueits, Christopher Guerra, Gabriel Guevara, John Gutierrez, Nicholas
Photo By: Ivan J. Vich
Sixth Grade
Hermida, Stephan Hernandez, Daniel Hernandez, Fernando Hernandez, John Hernandez, Ricardo Iglesias , Ricardo
Inguanzo, Carlos J oseff, Nathan Juarez, Luigi Justo, George Lara, Luis Larrieu , Rene A
Lemus, Michael J Leon , Dayron Llorente , Ricardo J Lopez, Henry Lorenzo, Bryan Lucio, Alejandro
Marrero, PaulS Martin, Alain D Mas, Idelfonso Mashayekh, Yousef Massa, George MasvidaL Daniel R
Mederos, Jonathan M
Menendez, Stefan A Mesa , Jorge J MigueL Andres M Miranda, Alejandro A MontieL Mauricio
Underclassmen
Morejon, Javier L Moreno, Ricky A Munilla , Alejandro L O'naghten, Juan T Ojeda, Felipe Padilla,Americo A
Palmerola, Ricardo PascuaL Alexander D Penichet, Damian Pereda, Luis Pereira, Jorge F Perez de Corcho, J D Perez-Cervera, Andres Perez-Siam, Israel Pisa, Renzo Quevedo, Enrique F Ramirez, Adrian Regueyra, Alberto M
Riesgo, Aldo M Rodriguez, Jason Rodriguez, Kevin A Rodriguez, Loren Rodriguez, Michael Rodriguez, T. Daniel Rojas, Louis-Daniel Rosson, Nicholas T Rovirosa, Francisco J Ruiz, Victor A Sanabria, Alfredo Sanchez, Jonathan D
Schaiberger, G G
Sedeflo , Kristian A
Shipman, David M
Silveira, Leonardo
Sobrado, Roberto J
Sola, Alejandro
Soloveiko , Christopher
Soto , Victor R
Suarez, Bryan-Michael
Tarafa, Antonio p
Tardielo, Julian
TefeL Santiago
Tillet Eduardo A
Torrente, Anthony E
Trigo de Serrano , A C
Uribe, Alex J
Vallenilla, Chris L
Vargas , Alfredo A
Veliz, Rene D
Vicaria, Rolando J
Vigil , Andres E
Volsky, Alexander J
Weissenberg , Juan M Wiltz, Carlos
Zacarias, Christopher F
Underclassmen
Photo By: Ivan J Vich
All Photos By : Ivan J Vich
Acuna, Christopher Alam, Juan Carlos Alard, Enrique Alvarez, Daniel Alvarez, Javier
Alvarez, Juan Carlos Alvarez, Marcos Alvarez , Martin Alvarez, Michael Arias, Eric
Armas , Jose Arrnesto, Eladi o Barro, Anthony Bayon, Andres Benitez Carl os
Borges, Edward Borgmann, WIIUam Bouza, David Drake, Nicholas
Cabezas, Rolando Cabrera, Adrian Cabrera, Michael Cajade, Francisco Capitalne, Richard
Capote, fern ando Caraballo , Christopher Card enas, Jonathan Carreras , Michael Castellon, Michael
Underclassmen
Chiriboga, Andres Concha, Fernando Correa, Adrian Costa, Brian De Castro, Allen De La Fuente, Juan De La Vega, Nicholas De Varona, Luis De Castro, Rainier Diaz, Alejandro Diaz, Ronny Dominguez, Christopher Duquesne, Eduardo Effio, Renzo Egues, Rafael Elortegui, Ricardo Enriquez, Andre Escobar, Enrique Fenton, Michael Florin, Cesar Fojo, Jonathan Fonseca, Aldo Garcia, Christopher Garcia, Eric
Fr. Sardinia S.J. andAdrian Cabrera pose for a photo before a meeting.
Matt Llorente gets a quick bite before playing a game of hoops.
Brian Hall expresses his anger after being thrown out of Mr. F. r s science class.
Richard Bruguera crams in a
Malave, Andres Marciano, Anthony Marquez, Jesus Marti, Pedro Martinez, Reynick Mena, Cesar Mena, Marco Molero, Christopher Molinares , Reuben MontieL Michael Morales IlL Roberto Moreno, Pedro Munilla, Daniel Munoz, Omar O'Brien , Jonathon Oliver, Brian Oropesa, Manuel Ortiz, Michael
Papin, Richard Perez, Daniel Perez, John Peruyera, Michael Phillips, Steve Portillo, Armando Pozo, Justo Pumariega, Gabriel Quiles, Johannes Rabelo, Carlos Redondo, Louis Ribas , Alberto
Rivero, Albert Rivero, Fernando Robinson, Arturo Rodriguez, Alexander Rodriguez, Antonio Rodriguez, Christian
Rodriguez, Michael Rodriguez, Ruben Salazar, Pablo Salim, Pedro Salurn, Jonathon Sanchez, Alex
Sanchez, Christian Sanchez, Joaquin Sanchez, Mario Sanchez-Agrarnonte , M. Sanson, Michael Santelices, Manuel
Schultheis, Roy Sirjoo, Jason Smith, Raul Stankiewicz, Edward Suarez, Jesus Torrent, Daniel
Torres, Jose Tunon, Daniel Tunon, Luis Urbieta, Ignacio Urdaneta, Adan Valdes, Daniel
Valverde, Nicholas Velasco, Louis Velasquez, Miguel Vizcon, Diego Ward, Ryan Wyss, Thomas
Zaldivar, Roberto
Underclassmen
Andres Chiriboga cheers on the Belen Football Team in their homecoming victory over Gulliver
Manny
really, really, really, small basket.
Oropesa tries to sink one into a
Brian Hall, Carlos Benitez, Michael Sanson, and Eddie Stankiewicz pose for a photo after school.
All Photos in section by Robert Rico
Eddie Macias looks around for a dancing partner at the Belen Tom bola dance.
Underclassmen
Abelairas, Juan Acevedo , Edward Adan , Daniel Aguilar, Michel Alegret, Eric
Alemany, Adrian Alonso, Christopher Alvarez, Ceasar Alvarez, Francisco Alvarez, Mark
Andrade, Christian Argibay, Nicholas Artime, Louis Azcue, Javier Azpiazu, Justin
Boria, Alexander B he, Juan o,Jason C8bello IlL Raul cabrera. Christopher
Carreras, Pedro Carrion, Humberto Castro, Orlando Castro, Oscar Chavez, Jean-Paul
Cintron, Luis Coba, Richard Collazo, Eric Conforme, Jorge Coutts, Ian Crego, Ramon Cuenca, Amado Cusco, Carlos DeLeon,Belloc Diaz, Armando Jose Diaz, Gregory Diaz, Juan Fernando Diaz, Michael Duarte, Andres Duarte, Johnathan Duenas, Nelson Duyos, Oscar Echenique , Javier Fernandez, Luis Femandez-Barquin, J Fonseca , Luis Forrest, Michael Fors, Jorge Fors, Luis
Robert Garcia enjoys a dance with his date at the eighth grade prom
Carlos Gonzalez brings up the water and wine during the offe rtory procession
franyie, Alejandro Garcia, Gabriel Garcia, Robert Garda-Tunon, A Godoy-Dalmau, E Gomez, Oscar Gonzalez, Carlos Gonzalez, Marco Gorordo, Leonardo Goudie, Ricardo Gramatges, Robert Greenhauff, David Guerra, Alfred Gutierrez, Gabriel Gutierrez, Gabriel Gutierrez, Ruben Hernandez, Alejandro Huisman, Mark
Iglesias, Vicente Jacomino, Javier Larrieu, Francisco Larrieu, Manuel Lavemia, Daniel Leon De La Barra
Lera, Abel Leyva, Jonathon Lopez, Carlos Lopez, Jorge Lucio, Daniel Machado, Rafael
Underclassmen
Joseph Menendez relaxes with his date after a long night of crazy dancing.
Saved by the photographer: eighth graders get a minute of "fun" to pose for a photograph.
Madariaga, John Paul Madrigal, Gustavo Manrara, Alberto Maradona, Guillermo Masvidal, Daniel Medina, Jorge Mendez, Raymond Menendez, Antonio Menendez, Joseph Michael, Peter Miranda, Carlos Morales, Giovanni Morin, Michael Nelson, Richard Newmeyer, James Noa, Michael Nunez, Michael Odriozola , Alexander
Ormaza, Albert Ortiz, Robert Oviles, Guillermo Padilla, Daniel Palmerola, Jorge Paret, Alex
Peguero, Oscar Perez, Enrique Perez, Juan Perez, Luis Plantada, Christophr Plasencia, Alexis
Puente, Alejandro Puente, Justin Ramirez, Eugene Reboso, David Rodriguez, Alexander Rodriguez, Carlos Rodriguez, Christian Rodriguez, Eric Rodriguez, Ignacio Rodriguez, Richard Romero, Robert Roos, Hector
Roque, Daniel Russo, Paolo Salas, Matt Sanchez, Kristian Santiago, Jay Sarda, Antonio
Sarria, Alex Selem, Alexander Stanly II, Edward Suarez, Jorge Tefel, Rodrigo Thomas, Richard
Torres, Luis Trujillo, Carlos Tudela, Felipe Turner, Christian Valdeon, Daniel Valdes, Javier
Valdes-Castaneda, R. Valdez-Fauli, Shawn Velez, Mario Volsky, Peter Volz, Emilio White, Victor
Underclassmen
Wood, William Zuriarrian, Alexander
Mrs Castro helps her son Oscar put on his eigth grade graduation pin. This pin is a symbol of the successful completion of his middle school years at Belen.
The Miranda family join hands in reciting the Our Father at the Eighth Grade Pin Cere-
Andy Blanco clears the ball into mid-field as his teammates look on.
Underclassmen
Abarca, Carlos
Aguayo, Jose A
Albert Michael A
Aleman, Eduardo J
Alexander, Eric N
Alfonso, Alexander H
AIJen, Carlos R
AJonso, David M
Alvarez, Jose A
Andion, Jose M
o, Jorge L , .Albert R , Arturo A , .Rlchard L
&area, Ricardo
Be L Gregory
Bel1o, Pedro M
Benitez, Alberto A
Benitez, Norberto Ill
Bertran , A lex
Blume, lfred o L
Bouza , D ann y
Bowen, harles M
BuUrl , Adol fo Cabrera , John
Carullo, Andres F
Cashman, Qaniel J
Cleveland, Crkopher
Corbera, WflUam J
Corral, Andres F
rdo E • David J
Cuadra, Luis A
Cubero, Fransisco M
Dana, Shawn M
de los Reyes, Adrian del Castillo , Sebastian Delgado, Alex Desme, Zadi Diaz, Robert Dieguez , Manuel A Dimuont, Paul Dominguez , Rafael R Duque, David Elias, Alfredo Espinosa, Daniel A Espinoza, Joseph V
Garcia, Leonardo A Garganta, Andres
Gonzalez, Adrian J
Gonzalez, Daniel A
Guerra, Marcelo H
Gutierrez, Javier Guzman, Eric A
Hernandez, Michael G
Hernandez, Pedro
Hoar, Francis X
Hoyos, Manuel B
Jemeson, Gregory
Jimenez, Jose A
Leon, Daniel A
Leon, Derek C
Livermore, Jorge A
Llaca, Alejandro M
Lledo, Jonathan
Llorente, Mark
Locascio, Edward J
Lopez, DanielE
Lorenzo, Ernest A
Luss, Jaime A
Manduca, Albert M
Marin, Daniel G
Martinez, Joel E
Martinez, Luis F
Mcgee, Michael J
Merconchini, Geoffrey
Mesa, Nelson
MichaeL Paul Monteiro, Alfredo A
Underclassmen
Nunez, Nelson Jr.
Nunez , Rigoberto N
O'Brien, Clinton A
Olivera, Michael R
Pagnussat, Jonathan
Palomo, Ramon A
Parets , Juan Carlos
Parrilla, Jose E
Pasken , Nicholas A
Patino , Nicholas Perez , Charles F
Perez, Eric ti
Perez, Michael R
Perez-Vila Roberto A
Pino , Pablo M
Pia , Thomas
Portuondo, Ignacio A
Montenegro, Raul A Montero, Joseluis Monzon, Fernando X
Mosquera, Arturo E Munilla, Pedro M Muniz , Jorge A
Muniz-Bustamante J C
Prats, Gustavo A Prieto, Nelson Puerto, Roger A Ramirez, Ricardo J Ramos, Agustin A Ramos, Denis D
Ricardo, Walter G
Rivas, Adrian A
Rivera, Alejandro L
Roa, Jose L
Robayna, Oscar E
Roca, Christopher
Rodriguez, Rafael K
Rodriguez, Richard
Rodriguez-VaL A
Romero, Jose Rovira, Juan C
Salazar, Alejandro P
Sanchez, Adrian M
Santiago, Danny E
Smith, Carlos J
Suarez, Carlos I
Susategui, Charles
Telleria, Miguel A
Tirado, Augusto E
Torres, Nicholas D
Torricella, Joseangel Ullivarri, Eddy
Vargas, Andrew J Vazquez, Lazaro
Viadero, Daniel Villalba, Robert J
White, Jeremiah D
Wills, Christopher Yanez, Anthony R
Underclassmen
All Photos By: Ivan J. Vich
Underclassmen
Achong, Raphael
Acosta, Edward Alexander, Juan Alfonso, Jonathan Alonso, Giancarlo
Alvarez, AlEjandro Alvarez, Jorge Alvarez, Pedro Amaro, Jose Andollo, Pedro
Amedo, Carlos Austin, Dylan Avello, Francis Ayo, Roman Barnes, Max
Costa, Gabriel Dapena, Ricardo De Siato, Michael Debayle, Carlos
Del Amo, Gerald Del Campo, Alan Diaz, Ariel Diaz, Jose Duarte, Eugenio Duran, Gabriel
Echevarria, George Esteve, Jeronimo Farco, Carlos Fatemian, Salman Feria, Michael Fernandez, Ariel
Fernandez, John Paul Fernandez, Jose Fernandez, Joseph Garcia, Manuel Garcia-Rorneu, Albert
Garrote, Alexander Gaymer, Agusto Gayol, Michael Gonzalez, Eric Gonzalez, Gabriel Gonzalez, Angel
Florida Spanish State Conference Division 3A State Champions
Standing left to right: Coach Beatriz
Emil
Sitting left to right: Frank Rivas Vazquez ( 11), Javier Granda ( 11), Raul Morin ( 10), Eugenio Duarte ( 10), Guillermo Lagos ( 10), Eduardo Cozzari ( 12), Michael Hicks ( 10)
Third consecutive year to score perfect in drama.
Jimenez, Oscar Fernandez ( 12),
Ricart ( 10), Herbert Prats ( 10), Joseph Fernandez ( 10), Manuel Santana ( 1O)
Gonzalez, Mario Gonzalez - Lerra, F GonzalezPortuondo,Julio Gubieda, Michael Guzman, Mark Henriques, Steven
Larralde, Mark Lausell, Ian Lavemia, tlomero Llama, Alejandro Lopez, Daniel Lopez, Erick
Lopez, Jeffery Lorenzo, Jonathan Loret De Mola, Melchor Lucio, Luis Malatas, Alberto Manrique, Alejandro
Marchant, Michael Marin, David Marino, Ramon Martinez, Alejandro Martinez, Daniel Martinez - Lejarza, J
The Sophomores get together on Latin American Night as they do a presentation for Cuba. photo by Beatriz Jimenez
Alex Alvarez and Jorge Saladrigas smile for the camera during lunch on Sophomore Day photo by Ivan Vich
Mauri, Eric Me Miilan, Victor Mendiola, Martin Mesa, Daniel Milian, Daniel Milian, Jesus
Minoso, Alvaro Mirambell, Alejandro Montealegre, Arturo Montenegro, Daniel Morgan, Lawrence Morin, Raul
Navarro, Luis Ortiz, Rodrigo Padron, Daniel Paretes, Herbert PascuaL Mario Pelaez, Robert
Pelaez, Victor Perez, Hierberto Quintero, Mario Rasco, Juan Carlos Rasco, Richard Rey, Alexander Reyes, Miguel Ricart, Emil Rico - Perez, Carlos Riley, Robert Rivas, Antonio Rodriguez, David
Sophomores
Rodriguez, Eric Rodriguez, Felix Rodriguez, John Rodiguez, Jorge Rodriguez - Jaile Rosado, Joaquin
Saladrigas, Jorge Sanchez, Rodger Sanjenis, Alexander Santana, Manuel Sedeno, Alejandro Serna, Alexander
Soberon, Daniel Suarez, Joesph Telleria, Juan Carlos Trujillo, Ruben
Ugarte, Alejandro Valdes, David
Valdes, Geoffrey Valle, George Vallejo, Alexander Vazquez, Adrian Verdeja, Octavia Villacorta, Miguel
Von Der Osten, Erimar Wood, Gerald Zapata, Oscar
Raising money for a worthy cause the Sophomores sell their soft drinks.
The tenth grade art class learns how to transfer 3-D sculptures onto a
Emil Ricart takes a lunch break from his hectic summer job at Belen Summer Camp.
photo by Steve Giralt
photo by Steve Giralt
John Paul Fernandez breaks it down at the Belen Tom bola Dance.
photo by Steve Giralt
2-D paper.
photo by Jonathen Dybbuck
Sophomores
Underclassmen
Acevedo, Jose Albir, Carlos Alonso, Gerardo Alvarez, Javier Barcia, Carlos
Bou cugnani, Giancar1o Bowe, CoHn Burgos, Alejand o Cabrera, Joel Cajigas , Ricardo Galzada, Nicola Camero , Dani Canto, Eduard CardeUe, Otho n Caride,Jua
A- V'ft'\ Farah, Rafael Farinas, Stephen r...---- :LL > Fernandez, Alfredo Fernandez, Jorge Fojo, Robert Font Rodolfo Franco, Xavier Garcia, Alexander Garcia, Anthony Gil, Fernando Gilpin, Victor Gomez, Frank Gomez, Javier Gonzalez, Eduardo Gonzalez, Michael Gonzalez, Raul Gonzalez, Xavier Goudie, Fernando Granda, Javier Grillo, Jorge Guanche,Erik Hernandez, Carlos Hernandez, David Iglesias, Javier
Nothing to do on a lazy Sunday afternoon, Jerry Alonso, Carlos Barcia, and Stephen Farinas, "shoot the breeze" at the Tombala Fair.
Armando Castro and Ivan Vich mix it up on the turntables in preparation for the Tom bola dance.
Jacobson, Gabriel Kurenuma, Kenji Lay, David Llanes , Mikel Lopez, Daniel Lopez-Santos, Francisco
Marquez, Richard Martinez,Michael Masvidal, Gabriel Masvidal, Sergio Mena, Michael Mendez, Mario Mendoza, Alejandro Miqueli, Alexander Morales, Diego Muci, Rafic Munoz, Mark
Navarrete, Christian
Navarro, Arnalda Noa,Joseph Pader, James Peon, Daniel Pereiras,Alan Pemas , Francisco
Piedra , Ricardo Phieiro, Michael Portuondo , Rafael Prieto, Gerardo Quesada , Frank Quintana, Francisco
A typical display of the Junior's style. 184 Underclassmen
Jonathan De Vera, Richard Marquez, Javier Yataco, and Javier Gomez bask in a moment of glory for the Belen basketball team.
CCass of 1998
Ramirez , Paul Reyes, Carlos Rivas-Vasquez, Francisco Rivera, Luis Riveron, Philip Rojas, Mario Rovira, Jose Ruiz , Carlos Ruiz, Gabriel Sablan, Rodolfo Salum, Jorge Salup, Jorge Sanchez, George Smithies, Charles Soler-Baillo, Victor Souto, Jose Torrens, Jonathan Torres, Michael Trujillo, Alejandro Vazquez, Alex Vega, Kevin Vich, Ivan Vidal, Pedro Yataco, Javier
CCass•
"Senioritis "-Yeah right! Senior year to many students is the ...,,, vp;u to relax, enjoy your last of high school and get ready to go to college. This is not the case for Belen students. This year, for many Belen students, is the toughest year, not only academically, but emotionally as well. The pressure of doing well and passing every subject in order to graduatt:; can make this year extremely) challenging. Some students find themselves practicing for a sport until 7 o'clock at night and then going home to study for a Physics or Calculus tests the next day, to maintain their 1 grades. Senior year is also a very exciting year in terms of activities. They have the Senior Prom, the Ring Ceremony, · Grad Nite, Senior Mass and the long awaited ''Graduation.'' Even though Senior year is deft· nitely a year of struggle and sa- r-___. crifice, it's also one they will always treasure and remember.
"The acting by Tommy Llamas,Alex Torra, Eddie Carreno, Robert Garcia, and Luis Patino was superb to the point that one was annoyed by Norman's " Oh boy ", fustrated by Lucien's incapability to understand, humored by Arnold's paranoid-nervous manner, concerned for Barry's safety, and compassionate for Jack's fustration in dealing with these four characters," said senior Jose Rasco, when asked his opinion of the senior play performance of The Boys Next Door.
In speaking of the senior play and the senior skit one thinks of four stars. In these two performances it is very evident that endless hours of rehearsal and superb acting were at its foundation.
Witnessing these performances, one realizes that the great quality is a direct reflection of Leo Williams and his speech and drama class. " This is possibly the greatest acting class in school history r said assistant princi• ple Armando Rodriguez.
by Eddy Vadia
Four Stars
Eddie Carreno and Robert Garcia- Tun ion admire a golf club. These actors play two mentally handicapped persons in the showing of The Boys Next Door.
Alex Torr a does his best interpretation of Leo Williams in the senior skit.
Tom my Llamas stars as " Jack " in the showing of The Boys Next Door.
Alex Torra, Eddie Carreno, and Luis Patino frantically look for "the rat" in the senior play.
All photos by Robert Rico Senior
Oh what a night ... this year got off great. ''It was one of the best bus rides I've ever had," said Eddie Carreno. Once they rived the senior s were cheered by students from other schools. '' l didn't know why everyone was cheering for us,'' said Marcus Macau.
After riding on a ll the rides in MOM, the seniors moved on to conquer all the clubs in the Mag ic Kingdom. Once inside the k i ngdom the seniors dispersed to all the rides, the smashing clubs, and importantly the girls. Jorge Vigo p l aced second in a dance contest, dancing the "Maca r ena," and Barney Flores p l aced first doing the so called ''Barney Rubb l e.'' Andy Agu i rre said " This i s a n ight I'll never forget.'' All in all, the seniors had a great time !
A l ex Rico
Alex Hernandez and "Chip" reunite after fond memories of running around the acorn tree during their childhood at Grad-Nita '97.
Jose Garcia takes t ime to enjoy his CocaCola Classic after Grad-Nite ' 97
"One of the hottest night spo t s, Mannequ ins, is where most of the seniors go to chill,"said Alex Rico
John Garcia de los Rios gets hid head bit off by Goofy while his friend Juan Carlos Campos laughs at him.
A group of sen iors t ake a plunge on " Splash Moun t a i n" during Grad-Nite '97.
Exci t ed with thoughts of Disney running t hrough their heads, seniors Manolo Diaz, Mike Perez, Jose Rodriguez Torres, and other sen iors take a picture
Eric Blanco finds a p lace to sleep on the b us back to Be len .
Jorge Vigo's date recognizes the photographer Steve Giralt, a Belen alumni.
Rene Leon and his date share their expectations for the upcoming events of night.
Dancing is a must at the prom. Manolo Diaz and date share their excitement with the photographer.
Oscar Fernandez , Pedro Carillo and dates work on their Cesar salads. The Doral Hotel served Filet Mignon as the main course and a flaming chocolate dessert.
Jose Menendez, Omar Miranda, Robert Garcia- Tunon, Alex Torra and Robert Zurita and dates pose in front of their 12 person limousine. Limousines add an elegant flare to the glamour of Prom Night.
Michael Llorente, Luis Patino and Manuel Chico serenade their dates as Carlos Rice, Aldo Calderin, Eduardo Vadia and Jorge Landa take in the moment .
Marcos Macau and Patrick Hidalgo entertain their friends by singing a duet amongst a crowded dance floor
Rodrigo Gasterazoro and date at their table enjoying their salad and the company.
Juan de Cardenas and date enjoy the music at the Starlight Ballroom within the Doral Hotel.
On the night of May 9, 95 seniors and their dates dressed to kill to attend their last dance of high school. The Belen class of 1997 held their Senior Prom at the beautiful Starlight Ballroom of the Doral Hotel in South Beach. For most, the night started as the seniors and their dates arrived to the Doral in their stretched limousines to be greeted by a beautiful romantic view of the ocean. The couples were then taken to the reception area where they could buy refreshments and have their pictures taken. Finally the time came when they entered the Starlight Ballroom. Dinner was served shortly there after. Then the moment everyone was waiting for had arrived. The lights were dimmed and the music started to play as the couples danced the night away But the end of the prom only marked the beginning of a glorious night when most seniors left to their prom after parties. The 1997 Senior Prom turned out to be an unforgettable night for the senior and their dates.
Alexis Mantecon
Senior Prom
SYMBOL OF FRIENDSHIP
One event anticipated by all seniors is the annual Ring Ceremony. This year the momentous occasion took place on October 26 in the Central Patio. The ring is a symbol of Belen and the unity of it's Senior class.
The ceremony commenced with a mass, followed by th e blessing of the rings. After the rings had been distributed a celebration was h eld in the cafeteria to honor the seniors and their parents
The ceremony was an event which will be rememb ered by all seniors and their famili es. Each senior will cherish th eir ring as a symbol of their friendships.
1996-1997 graduating class and there fathers look on as they await the distribution of the
Rafael Villoldo
Senior Marco Ciocca walks out while embracing his dad after rece ivin g his ring.
rings.
Fr. Sommarriba, Fr. Marcelino Garcia, S.J , Fr. Eduardo Alvarez, S.J., and Fr. Pedro Cartaya , S.J. give the final blessing before the seniors get their rings
Senior Rodrigo Gasteazoro shakes Fr Marcelino Garcia's hand as he receives his ring.
Senior Manolo Diaz looks with astonishment as he tries on his senior ring while his dad looks on.
Senior Ramiro "Nick'' Garcia as he observes the different cuts of the stone on his ring.
1996-1997 graduating class rings on display during the mass. After the blessing they were then handed out.
Senior Albert Martinez shares a few of wisdom as he reads the Prayers of the Faithful during the mass.
All photos by Steve Giralt
Havin' fun at the Senior Encounter, the seniors trust their lives on the strength of Andy Aguirre and his buddies.
photo by Michael Perez
Senior Arturo Balandra gives a passionate speech on what it means to be a "Candle in the Dark".
photo by Robert Rico
Senior Nick Garcia leads Senior Mike Perez on a journey to discover if Mike's light "shines through".
photo by Daniel Rodriguez
Graduation Mass. After the Virgin Mary took her place at the altar, the mother of each Graduate offers a single rose as a gesture of entrusting their sons to her.
Rafael Villoldo welcomes the students, parents and guest to the Graduation Mass at St.
An incredible gathering takes place at St. Kevin's altar during the consecration of the host.
Rodrigo Gasteasoro and his mother make their way into St. Kevin's Church. The mothers accompany their sons on the way into the church, then they take their place next to their sons for the duration of the mass.
Joseph Selem and Nicolas Pelleya bow as they present the offertory at the altar.
Kevin's Parish.
photos by Ivan Vich and Bryn Alan Photographer
Senior Encounter /Graduation Mass
ceo i ment are read out , graduation is a moment of extreme pride and satisfaction, it is a moment where hours of work and nall nize
Graduation orne of comrades ·p w e o prid augmented by every single one of those friends who also make that walk to receive their diploma, their recognition.
In this year of our Lor there. There were peopl more than others and w special prizes given to some, b t
real prize was to be able to look rothers of
a a e tion. I was proud of every single one of those people that stood up to get their diploma, because I know how much nd sleeple ights those diause I knew ds I will nevr s ealized that our challenge of life had just started, because I knew that now it was our tum to give to the world, because I a b ay ood-bye to those I loved.
whom we share a chal
in
Cfasso
Arturo Balandra
Valedictorian Arturo Balandra receives the Archdiocese Award from Eddie Alvarez. S.J. Arturo eamed the title of Valedictorian by maintaining the highest Great Point Average of 4.54. Valedictorian Speech found on page 300-301. photo by Bryn-Alan
The crossing of the tasse l fr om the le ft side to the right is symbol ic of the tra n sition in to t he fu t ure withou t leaving the post behind
photo b y Bryn Alan
1997 seniors Juan P de Cardenas, Danny Rodriguez, Albert Martinez, Eduardo Cozzari, and Eric de Angulo sit proudly in front of their brothers, whom are also Belen Alumnis.photo by Albert Romeu Studio
Salutatorian
Ahmed Riesgo delivers his introductory speech by welcoming his classmates along with their guests. photo by Bryn-Alan
Attentively waiting, Robert Zurita, Rafael Villoldo, and Carol Vila look for the sign to begin the ceremony. photo by Bryn-Alan
Principal Marcelino Garcia S.J. congratulates Carlos Artime as he hands him his diploma.
photo by
Nick Garcia, Robert Garcia-Tunon, Frank Granda, Eduardo Carreno, Peter Carrillo, and Eduardo Cepero alphabetically sit down during the proces sion photo by Bryn-Alan
Micfiae(
DOT(.) "Choose life Choose a. ,, .Job( ! Chbose a career Choose a family Choose a big television Choose _.wasping ,. machines cars compact disc players and electrical tin openers Choose *' : sitting;,· on the couch watching mindnumbing spirit-crushing game shows People_. think it's all about misery and desperation and death and all that w · i;=; not to be ignored but what they forget is the pleasure of it' ·se we wouldn't do it After all we ' re not stupid "(.) DOT
ButchjDoughBoyjFatkidj"I Like lcecream"jDave, you hit it overjNacho unpluggedjMarco, "Did I get air?"jHey guys, I can get up on a bigger boatjMarco, twins The good times;At the factory; Dave, where did you and Kathy go last nightjFidel "I love you baby "j Gracias por todoj Hey lucky Joe smell thisj The hunter must die SELLOUTj Vigo intimidate the Icemanj Siam productions/ Hey, let's go to the haunted housejSophomore yr. Christmas shoppingj Marco=Jackson ' sj JSj Gaby, stop walking like a girljMannyj Jay do the number proudj Gaston thanks for everythingjSoph. yr. Disney world , leah ' s b-day, out of handj Pachichi and the boys we had a great timej Chris what did we do we ' re getting stoppedj B.K. Don ' t throw that chair/ Wallace Clanj Big guyj Chris , How ' s the hit listj Jess, your just more than one of the boy's Christian B.s Party's out of handj Marco , Hey Louis, will I ever get that big?j 6377j Jr. Mafia, what ajokej 12 14253/ Marco, put the tazor awayj144j Gonzo, why did you leave?j Vigo, make me copiesj Danny, the nerd herdj Louis, why are you going in the bathroom?j16127jVigo, don't break the bottle, ONE GREAT DAY Rusty Pelican Soph. yr.jCoaches , thanks for everythingjT Commando missionj Sammy and Gabby 6 degrees of Kevin Baconj Wolverine Football #1j Augie, your not fat, your stockyj Tati, thanks for being my role modeljMat Rat housej Meli, Disney World 14373434j Mom and Dad , thanks for always being there and supporting me in everything I doj Nana y Abu , Gracias por todo gue me han encenado y como me han gueridoj Afterparties at Pedro ' s housej Burro , thanks for the memoriesj Cookie, Cole don ' t get in cars with strange guysj Wrestling District Champ ' 97j MeiL you don ' t know how much I love you; once a task has begun never quit till it's done Be that labor great or small do it well or not at all
Key Club 4 years; Student Council12 grade; Wrestling District Champ 3 years ; Football Team Capt.; Baseball Team Capt.; Varsity Track 11-12
· A I [ tak£: my }tnd anyw here, anywftere I roam, wftere I Cay my fierui is Fwme, carvecf upon my stone, my 6ody Cie, 6ut stiff I roam. 1 1 MetafCica 1..,.: 9""' 9 ..;t;;. 1
Afonso, Renato ]ufian
hat time is it? Pumpkin hunters Jahosephats Bugsy fresh batch, anyone? Yeah, and I'm Clnd auper soup face Dodger - Master two hamburgers plain "The Crew" "The Heist" Frankenheimer Kirby Pucket's Stanley Rocket's What the funk? Special Pup Shnooks pictuli (pitcher) Buttercup pup Yogi time for some hardcore? Slayer video?? porcelain incid en t Rand cNally Yoda dream Anyone for meat patties, soda, and chips? bar and gardner Dave & Bu ster's uncooked spaghetti Dole Jura Wrath of the Biltmore Venetian jump Perez's house Ch ristma shopping Who are we beating up tonight? Ovi's pagan dolls A Ia' black Holy Machiavelli banan Hey m· fella! Hey look its one ofVinney's goons Gibson Explorer mad scientist Kalico Kid Mr Oreo Mafia Monkey Doop Do op the hick fanny mae The Danger Avenger Old Faithful Gorilla Mobile Attentl AI Can e (Cyborg Pup) Bologna Ovi is in the sh o wer again!!!! Adios!
*b. 06fl9j79, Miami, Fl.; *Attended Belen 6th through l2th ; *Track and Field- 8th and 9th; *Homeroom President -lOth; *Malta Youth Corps- l2th.
Arenas, Danie(
Born3-22-79, 7 years at Belen, Varsity Soccer (8-12)- Honorable Mention (10 ,11); Beta Club President (9)- Key Club (9,10,12) -Homeroom President (8,10,12); Homeroom Big Brother 12- Environmental Club (8,11).
11 Tiiis Cife is onCy a test. Hcuf it 6ee an actuaL £ife, you woufcf liave w:eiv rtlier instructions. '' - Anonymous
Artime, Carfos ACejatufro
Charlie, Chaz , Doogie, Chuchu, I could go on, but I won'tjSixth grad erjftow many AP's do you have?jfr. Eddy rags n mejSylvia: You ' re late, DominguezjGiz's Class, if you can call it th atjGentlem enj Lu i s G, the best partner- Fun, everse PsychologyjMushroomsjBubbajYou mad e me deformed/ Ayyy , Rooobiej Stunt fightsjOdellaiChicken McNuggetjShe's so lightjThe Compleat Works of Wllm ShksprjSoun d b oyjKey ClubjRalf: I'm gonna have his job for this!jlvan: But Ralf. Charlie's your friend.jDan's rigsjRalf, I need to use the compu ter/Charlie, see me in 4th er.jRespect LlfejHa ve we done anything, Al ex?jPubertyjCLC and Fr.Kjl can't go today, CharliejTo the Juniors: ood Luckf ALPHA/ Anybody? Anybody? j7 :00 i n office/Conceited Mexican;AI,AJ ,Bot, Nolo: Thanks for the ri d es; All y good friends at the table: Alex, Robbie, Omar, Arturo, AJ, Ahmed, Ivan, Mama, Manteca, Marco, Mike, onch: It's been great. Thanks.jThe Conchi Clan: Marls, Christine , LiiL Ileana, Aisha. and all the others: I love you uys. I'm glad we're friends.jNati, Caro, Kelly, lsa a nd a ll of my friends at HCA: T h ank you for the memories and foli orne of the best times of my lifejJenny: I guess it's on e of those things I'll never u nderstand/Mariah: It was fun, I'm lad we're friends/Leah: Thank you for being my best friend and being there when I need you. I love you a lotjRalf, rs. J: Thanks and May God Bless YoujMamL PapL Meli, Abuela, Coqui, Fiki, T ias, Tios, and cousins: I couldn' ave gotten here w;out you. Thanks for your support. I love you alljfinally, to all my frien ds and t o the entire clas of '97: I love everyone of you, but I won't say goodbye; this Is just the beginning.
November l7, l979; Miami Beach , FL; 3 years at Belen; Key Club - (l0-l2): Key Club Treasurer - l2; A. L. P. H.A Club- (ll-l2); Forensicsj lTS - (l0-l2); Respect Life Club Treas. j Sec - (ll-l2); National Honor Society(ll-l2); Spanish Honor Society- (ll-l2)
Bcifatufra, Arturo
Skating w pink shorts Credit flower card scam Filling out chapters for Robert Frost's stars Marco's boat! and a third wheel Marco and the golf tree MOON on bajas SE VEN, heaven 4. 2 months "Tears down my life" start over Neighbor recurren ce syndrome I miss MOON Honduras llego The roses flip-andcrash, blood on my knee Big bubba cries Sambo, help! Babies takes big forehead Rapacious quartet! in a 4runner Bubba always listens PM IA in action Silver cross and a red dove on my heart Give me your wallet! 10 mo' relatives: silver rocks mirror my way, hey partner Rosi sparks, Caro gimme a smile, 3 guys made space 4 a fourth bed, falling star bring santa along- its hard not to fall for a stars' gift, Crsti is arigt Yngry's hug D.D.wA.J Mike's girlhiend along- I don't know what went wrong The fox and its friends roam in Orla ndo I'm glad we too k Oscar along/ Oscar man , palanca didn't work A pair of cute eyes, here w go again South beach I' m freezing comfortable clause Peqro I believe you Tony, Jorge, a racket phone calL a broken ball Jorge, th anks for the extended hand , bro Kendall9, phone call, holding hands dream at MANA Babies l 'm p r oud Juanca y Laurita Hey 6 Nervous by the falls Alex, Luis, FOUR!
A.J. Los Ranchos MO ON said yes !? Babies safely on the tight rope Wonderwall Achtl Balanchi Italian Bro Huumme ••. Igor in Spain Mamma Oro Solido Little girl Pa'Jante Prima howdy partner to fight for the u nreachabl e dream, i will nver be normal thanks Partner, thanks mom,j.c.,l.c.,g. Los quiero much a todos
TEAMS comp. l state 5 Nation- 1996, Spanish State Conf. lst pl.- 1996, Knowledge Bowllst pl.- l996, Princeton Book Award- l996, Jose Rubinos Award- l996, Key Club Comm. Serv. Chrmn.- l996, Tennis Letterman - 95/96, ALPHA Sec. - l996, SHS Pres. - l996, NMS commendtn. - l996
rrpa! afante'' - Giovanni, Mission ' 96
Wftatever I say seriouslY is a joke. But everytlii119 I say humorous!)' is s erious. - CFuistia.n Banens
Banclis, Cfiristian N.
UDE ESCOBA V S. FALCON JUNIOR PROM SESSIONS YELLOW+B L C K SMUGS ED GAR LAN D OOIN 2 JOFFERY'S MY SHINDIG WHO GAVE J A GO I N 2 STUD AT RALPHY'S D OTTIN I'M CHUBACA YELLOW LEDBETTER CAN DLEB OX CONCERT DO MINO/POKER AT J' T OMM Y HEARS WOlCES THE HOUSE TALKS 2 ME FATKID JUNIOR FINALS f.RT HIS VOG BILT MORE PARKING O T IS TH IS GOD'S ORANGE J UICE? RE-RE-RENE KINKOS SNICKERS CAM ELCUP TRAIN ING IC E KRISP Y TREATS RIDING THE STORM 2 HULAMEN KEY BISCAYNE BEAC H C LU B J CREW 'FA T MAN BEEP ARMANDO VERO BEACH HOUSE 1st TEAM McD 'S B4 SCH OO L C OSTAN ERA !STRIC T C HAMPS ANDERSON COLLOID MOBILE BLUE FO O T TAP HOMER XROADSjlst 0 ONTH RIVIERA SESSIONS KEON CODE 100 K-T 4EVR. LP-R V-CB-WC MY DA D PEARL JAM CONCERT-ESPANTOSO RESERVED 302 CHINESE CHURCH BRO! RENE GET CO C ON UTS CRAKBRAKL-SLURP-SLURP TH E GOUT LEMONS IN GOLF CO URSE CROWN+GARTER PLAYING FROG ER LET'S S EL L COCOS PUMPKI N HUNTERS STOMPED O N L's WORLD JUST A BRIDESMAID NNY ' S HOUSE 3rd PERIOD LUKE VlDEO SARCASM 7th PERIOD LIGHTS UP RUBBERMAID TH OYS THE SHINING SO IN THE ZO NE IT' S NOT EVEN FUNNY THANX MO M , PATT Y+PAT, AL, JOYCE I OVE EVERYBODY THANX GOD
ddy, Big "B", Bu bba, Legs You da man You saved my life cliff Class of '97 Oops! My Bad Me Rosa What 1984 Mu stang?, n o, terting. 11-Ql-96 Doub l e Up kids .32 Hey Danny where·s my movie ialeah Unde Luke .•. Wi nk ••. Thanks for t he home Coqui Speeding!! Who Mem No only 1.30 m p h you ow it babUeess Rosey n ever says no Billy Joel? Whatever! What Pimple? Acutane it Bunda He hico ••. Giz zer Doma Gizzer Doma Doma Van ny hey Mr. I love you sir don't forget Kathrine Coqui d Vicki's wedding?? Track, you! Ya long dista nce Tampa Jesuit Cycling champi on, mountain and road ike ••• Th e especial pl ease Uncle Al's Jr. Pro m, Skunk girl A.P. Physics, whatever Collins, nice final •. Kathy I reland, done before starting What d r i ve by Gabby "Beehh" Choclate Thunder Son neer EB Bass, what systemm Dark Bro thers Pro ductions I hate PHILOSOPHY Eddy, GO HOME! rlos thanks for everything, especi a lly t h e biking Thanx Papa, MamL Coqui. Vicki, Abuela, Carlos, Vann MR. Sir, Kid), Andy, Gabby, Louis. Danny, Mike25. and to everyone else who ever helped me 11/ 09/78- Miami, Fl.; 7 yrs at Belen; NJHS- 7-9; Beta- 10-12; Jets- 11-12; Track and Field- 9 -12; Key Club- 9 -11; Environmental Club- 9 -11; London Trip -10; Spanish Honor Society- 10-12.
"Tfie cfay you tak.e compfete responsi6iii1)' for the cfay you stop making e(t:cuses, tltat' s tfie cfay yo start at tfie top. " - OJ. Simpson
We cannot say {(the past is past" witFwut surrendering the future. -
Winston Churchill
Baret(, Anthony
tony Tonito Lefty #54
Whatever Jose, that's disgusting Joe, what's your problem Nassau rips •.. Pensacola '96 .•. K.ey West .•. New Orleans '97 Naples 507 DCAD '95 MDFD '96 Coach, y ann hurts •.• Coach Fraga's relaxation method Yeah right, Jorge 9 holes at Granada with Nick & Jorge ..• Throw Strikes! .•. 4 am wjOmar & Jose photocopies at CG library Jorge. we should've never made that U .•• Tony are you going to the DR this year? .•. Ralf-Tonito are you a staff member or not? Inside for show, utsifile for dough Gismo .•• sailing camp (left Andy in the channel) skipping practice FP "bien; ?" .•. Joe-Tony have you gotten to this quest. yet? You know my friend from highschool Dick Rogers hey, ave you been watching Restless in SeaWe? Pedro's post-promenades inactive member of the year Pi no! ehhhl One eye Willy Twejet conspiracy •.. It was said that man couldn't play this game computergat 1&11 •.. from the outside looking in ••. the pains only In your head Captiva Crew (Labor Day Weekend) Dr ekyU & Mr. Hyde chowhounds •.• Gracias Mami. Papi. K.ristia, MamL y Abi this ride had to come to an en omeday.
Miami, FL- 2 j 20 j 79; 7 years at Belen; National Junior Honor Society 7-9; National Honor Society l0-l2; Spanish National Honor Society l0-l2; K.ey Club 9-l2; Baseball 6 -l2, Varsity Letterman l0-l2 ; Big Brother l2 ; JETS; Peer Ministry ll-l2; UM Book Award.
Barreneche, Juan Jose
lass of '97 rules, Ultimate Frisbee, SENIOR SKIT - Gutz -Bicho - Machu Pichu, Amazon women. FOOTBALLa, Ha, Ho, Ho , 2nd Team All-Dade, Stu- "There 's no m e in team ", Guliver 20-l4
BASEBALL- Raul & Leo , 'one-eyed willy". Key West :3·2, Pen sacola - "Wh a t h ap pened to dough boy " , Oscar & Sharon Stone, Fidel's gUsh lessons, "I love you babies," Hansen's team - New Orleans Baby, SOCCER - District Champs in 97 v. ulliver Coach Welsh - "Unlucky Loopi", Taq attaq, FSU or Uf? Shout-out to rna laydees - Jessica (neve gain ), Andrea J. (wish you were here). Denise (we'll see ). Melissa V. (in my dreams). Bahamas ' 94, Wintergree 95, Europe '96 - "Why did I fall asleep?", "Here's Xuxa" "Call me Old Rough and Rea'dy" Peace & Love out to om , Dad, Jorge, Lulu, siblings (8), family, friends, Class of '97, & the big G-0-D.
4
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
years at Belen. Baseball- J.V. 10, Varsity 11 & 12 , Football- J.V. 10, Varsity 12 , 2nd Team All-Dade punter, Varsity Soccer -12, District Champs. Key Club 11 & 12, A.L.P.H.A. 11, Astronomy 12 , Big Brother, Europe Trip '96.
''It takes a 6ig man to cry, 6ut it takes an eve.n 6igger man to Caugfi at tfia man wfio cries. " -JACK HANDY, !S .N.L.
BatCCeJ Luis Jose
IT'S FINALLY OVER! Jose, stop talldng for once Gabby, stop growing Andy stop acting like a stupid re · Frank , stop acting, you ' re not fooling anyone Tom Cruise is sterile No bicycles or skateboards permitt on sidewalk God bless Eddy and his Explorer Gerryis God Uhrrrrr One day I shall own a Viper o Ferrari Mozart rules I can ' t talk, I'm working out The Wap loves CO ' s I want to be an animal by th time I get to college UM pre-Med Jose and Frank thanks for all the rides Thanl-. God I'm not with Angle .•. Gracias mami y papi. Tato e lila, Gildina, y a todos que me ayudaron mieiitras que yo estaba en Belen ••. Cu Libre! So much yes Europe ruled I still haven ' t found what I'm looking for I did see Steven Tyler an Lars Ullrich At the Grove.
Born 9-1-79 in Miami; National Juniors Honors Society 8, 9; National Honors Society 10-12; Europe Trip 10; CLC Member 12; Operation Angel Volunteer 10; Respect Life 11; Going to study Pre-Med at UM.
ey Mafia boy 5432l Rene wha t d o I l o ok like RUSH Stinking Peacock lets wack him cafesito the keys at go rd o s imagine if th at rea lly happen co sanostra the crew Renato the pumpkin Th all Vision tec hnobable icey stryke cheers DJ PJ buckwheat
Pumpkins o •• Rush at coralsky o •• golfcoa rse What time is i t ? lm
mind if I go down ther e Soup face Jerom e or Nigil Er ik da
sland The guerilla mobile Tha nks m o m , dad,
aby,
all resp ected gangsters GO OD FELLAS A clockwork
Pearl Jam Smashin
in the closet while Mannys busy Do yo
raver! Friday crew in Umbi's car Fisher
richard, abuelo, abuela, mary, jesus, tia, tio , m ic hael, nico.
laura , danny, mimi, fr. cartaya, t. perez, and everyone else who helped make me into a ma n . Perez-Giz Thanks - Charles "lucky", Benny Siegel, John Gotti Robert DeNiro Joe Pesci Martin Scorc ese a nd
Wrestling team -lO, ll, Swim team- 8, 9, Key Club- 9, lO, Astronomy Club president- 7, 8, 9 , lO , ll, l2.
"Tfie success of a 11Uln depends o knowing w fiat fie Ftas Ceamea a accepting wfiat fie cfoesn't know. " Confucius
Botero, Marco A.
BotjchipmunkjspeedyjPuffDa ddyjGood t imes at the factoryjWaps nationj Going to shows with A., David M., Rene L.jhey Danny pass I'm ope njLate n ight a dventures with Chris B ./ studying for final s with Aldojgood times on the boat with Dave & Nach ojAndy why is Luis going into the ladies bath room?j going surfing with Mac, Mandy, ddie C.jhey Dave you hit it overj goin g t o Jackson ' s with t he b oysjaiJ you can eat at Shoney'sjDi s n ey World with cathy and TechejCanadian Bac on jDa nn y D. we are livin g i n the real ghettojhey Al do how d id you do in natomyjthanks wawy for the tutoring/Humbi we were the first at the edgej Manny C. I got th e n ew Muscle Mediajthe anatomy crewjhey Manny C. you got spaghetti armsjworking out with Big TD and Ed d ie s.; varsity occer 97 jhey Tac we're going to regionalsjwinning goa l again st Gulliverjplaying in 93 with Gaby M., Jose T., Ricki jBibi A.K.A. my little gangsterj823 143jwe had som e g ood ti mes didn't we?jNorth Carolina 97 w ith Nach, Dave, '& Chagsjhey guys what a housejthe ski h ole/ District Champs9?/ I made my Pl\jgordajold man at Pizza Hut yo oys don't know nothin '; columbia 97 j Aldo ' s late night adventures at th e beachj hey guys I got a ir right?jpowerade anyone?jfabuloso Cadalacs with Rlfyjlate night scurfing with Dave and Nachjhey guys, I' m b ig right?jCancun her we comejBird bowl Billiards/ Alfredo get a h air cutj Eamestjl month a nn iversary at Kinko 'sjpeace to all no entioned, I still love youjlove you mom & dad thanxs for everythi ng/thanxs to all my friends for being therejJC
Varsity Soccer 8-12 grade, JV MVP 8th grade, Jr. High MVP 7-8 grade; All-Catholic player of the year 8th grade, Second team All-Dade 9-11; Varsity Captain soccer 11-12 grade , Varsity track 9, 11, 12, Varsity Volleyball 9-10 grade, Student Council lOth grade, Chess club 11th,
Football 8-9 grade.
Caji9as, Cesar].
Bad jokes Gaucho Biltmore golf course Tommy lets go to Vera eclipse Paradise gym Manny lets go jetskiing Wawi Christians party 120's Andy when do I pick you up Eric where are my glasses Naples lets go pickin Eddie drop the bass Venetian pool My car is on fire! Explorer secret hiding spot Eric's adventure in Target Manny Christian Fisher Island We were playing tfihe&go seek Where is manny with Annie Snookers Jay when are we gonna fight Wawi lets write a book DOOP DOOP Renato=plain hamburgers Manny v. Freddy Lets play quarters Accident coming from Youth 2000, Not! credit cards JCREW StfUTUP
"Live Cife to tlie _fu[fest"
Catderln, Afdo E
hivojMachetejPapijBicijBird Bowl BUiiardsjNacho, Dave, Eddie (What Really Happened?)jWhamps NationjTh ujThe Good Times At The Beach (Lynette, Olga, Jessica)/All Night Study Sessions With BotjFatmanjManolo, I' inning Two To OnejGulliver Homecoming 95 (Emily, Star, Olga) Homecoming After Party At fete'sjN.Y.C. Wit ete And George/Wolverine Football #1j7-3 In 1996/Piayoff-BoundjAII-Dade #7, 52, 62, 22, 60, 8 (Berry Nic uys)jLa Patrulla (Albert M., Jorge L., Manny C., German M.)fBomb Squad (#7,32,33, 85, 9, 3 Best Ever!)fJ5 Keep, t Jay, Cookie , Sergio, Kenji, Good Luck Next Year!jSpinelli's With WhampsjKelly 143/Jenny G. vonne (Can You Get Along?)fHey Bot How Was X-Mas Formal After Party?jHey Jorge Does This Smell Remind Yo fSomeone?jHot, CalientejRalfi, Oye Oye!jManolo, Look Both WaysjWawy Can You Help Me Study?fHey Bot, Ho id You Do In Anatomy?fThanks Patj1st Time With Pat And TelmojJunior Prom After Party A ete ' sjPachichijManolo Wanna Go Bowling? And Daniel)jHeelloo, Danny D.fLaurenjQ-Star Billiards Wit utch, Ed V. And RalfijEd You Hit The 15 Ball!jHooters With ManolojHey Hutch How ' s V Oirlj Awnoldf Alfredo, Let's o To Burdine ' sjKey West Roa d TripsjRoca (Red)fMac Are You Paying Attention?/Kinko's With Caro, Olga, An le iselle, And Scarlet.jMom, Dad , Mariela And Alex 143 And Thanks for it All/Once A Task Has Begun Never Quit Til t's Done, Be That Labor Great Or Small Do It Well Or Not At Alii
Campo, Juan Carfos
you don ' t understand ! l o ve that girl do n't ever cough my second house I can ' t go to Jama ica , I'll g e t kidnapped I'll kill the dog I' m moving to O rlando first and second loves " I got dibbs" MAD Roshan ' s wa ll it's just a helicopter the pond i s chill it's mine , it s ays 14K on it I can get anywhere in 1 5 minutes . I pa id for the truck with my own mo n ey FINA Dad el and parking incident you better not fall asleep her g ra n dparents love me Co co Juice, the movie Dogg Po u nd Mortal Kombat at Tito Video let's go to the Keys Uhhh $800 in q uarters if y ou ever m ake fu n of my mom ' s cooking again Triton Towers my favorite cousin Tripple P Productions love letters "get a h aircut " winter bob sled team Bobby still sh ops in the little boys section Star Wars "Mike, 1 don't care" Robert ' s warehouse FlU libra ry mon ster " Carlos look! pigs " Lincoln ' s bike riding the bea ch cruis e r biki ng everywhere hau nted house still m y n e ighborhood Berruga's doorstep surprises o ver bite Taco Bell picnics my macking nephew pencil fighting Merry Christmas Park I know how to play the piano "it's cool " it's natu ral JMP Gatos L oco s freaky friend slam your weigh t s, rookie no shame Pepe , speak English Mono I'll be doing her a favo r pa r a, para, stop, stop I'm joining track this is fo r Tupac, RIP New Yea r ' s resolutio n , for real t his time Special Thanks to : Mami & Papi, Otty & Krissy, A lex & Nicholas Thanks to: Roshan , Fra nki e, Joh n , Joe, Mark, Angie & Flor Shout outs : Sergio , Sammy & Ga b b y, Robert, Jes sy , Christine & Gabri eL Mike, B u tte r, Ricky D , Nick, Eddy, Ca r l os, Juan & Denise , Ivette , Gina , Chri s tia, Mike, Barn ey , Marco, Eric, Mandy , Alex T., Dave , Oscar, Gautam , Loren , D anny D., A lbert Rae & Kimberly & those not me ntioned o h yeah Mr. Perez-Glz too.
'
Student at Belen - since sixth grade, Honor Roll - through out middle schooL Key Club - ninth and tenth grades, Astronomy Club - Senior Year.
" Put
em on the glass" -Sir Mlxalot, 1994
" Don't JoCfow where the pat fi may fem£. Go insteacf where there is no patf1 arui Ceave a trai( '' - Ro6en Frost
Carreno, Eduardo Manue(
Eddieeeeee Tree Momo Hey where did Boynton go? Jorge, TonyB, TonyS remember the carpool Peter, we have to do this again sometime Eight Ball & Comer pocket Shooters Gang Christian you snuc in Denise hide the Candlebox Caro I'll drive your car Hutchie!!! Denise what is Normita cooking? Topeka Torra=Original Hitchiker Omar=the Bookshop Owner Me & Pablito taking Equus 95-96 Rootz Who's Liberty Bell & John Phillip Sousa Pete Laz's after-parties Ivan where's Jumping Jhonny J & thanx fo the pieces Hay Robbie remember Kansas Peter if you don'tgo to BK, l won't be your friend Jessica than for everything (b.friends you too Yoyi Wawy are you sure there is a squirrel singing Zelda th Headmaster and Link Raulito and Alexis in Casa Larios Wamps and Nick UF roomies Ciocca calm down Sammy what you and me have no one else does Hyeena Gus slow down Robert G.T. we need a piece Hey Bot how did you get so big Maundy=Amold Powerade Nick & Gonzo my boyz till death Caro h re have you been, Oh Pedro's in town Alexia & Christian Again? Vangie the Vampire get away Burro I'll pick you up at 7:15 Wawy where is Ala'Bama? He is still in Boynton C. Banchs Yellow Ledbedder ey Mac lets go upcoast Me and Bot upcoasting it (Rueben too) Eighth grade Danny, Alf, Pat Me on Pat's b all court Caro's Busses RichieD & Bertot my boyz Nice&Nedy Madonnas Pearl Jam-(Hutch , Pat a c) put down the Hutchie=Sergg & Porch I'm bigger than both of you EddyV confessions on the boat anny A. perhaps a duel ofWampi Duncan Christian Banchs Pat- KFC See you later I love you all, om, Dad, Lu, Caco, Jorge, Abba, OhOh, Mayoya, Rich, Nenita, Jaime, Ricky, Nicole and the whole Gainsevill ang ByeBye
November
Born
27, 1978 Miami FL 7 long years in Belen, Proud Graduate of Belen Class of ' 97, 4.46 GPA, Honor Roll (6-12), Varsity Volleyball (All-Dade HonM), Varsity Soccer, Student Council (Rec.Sec), NHS (Trsr) , SPHS, ITS (Trsr), Forensics (VP), Key Club (KiwRel), Amnesty Inti (Pres), Peer Ministry, Alpha, Speech & Drama.
CarriCfo , Pedro Lazaro
26 •97 • 79 •04 Pedri Hot! Caliente! You ' re Cool! Waving his hair Yabba Yabba Warsa w' s righ t there , Jorge Juniors pray for I like your classss in Jail Danett tal kin ' 2 Boynton Lips Ramon , Jamon Reaching New Heights at Mandy's Don ' t Stress, listen 2 jazz? Time slipping to Sinatra tun es nterprise 1 after party I am the Scartless Gloveless Wonder Lufthansa Math Madness & Wam ps buelo! Yak on my rug! Summer Carnival ' 96 New York! It doesn ' t smell like fish! Dodgeball, Nick? Squares & Shades at Station Close Up Another After Party? We've gotta do th is more often , Eddi e legance Inauguration in an igloo What ' s up Dogg?! Da Beanz , Luis Couch People Achti Mai L ins, & a 4Runner Xmas Tree Pete Laz Peety Weety There ' s 3 things, Ivan Out in Nassau uiet, Quiet! Do U remember the part? H-coming and Jess Yaque Arriba Freaky Esta Brusca ! nly 4 more days til FOIL method Singin ' in Theology Extended Homeroom Stop Having Fun at th e rossroads Nasty Omar Greek, Sushi, Nicole Baseball Oro Solido Pedritin U' re going to a tro ll dance? U're an idiot, Chivo Mayra again? Why U hate me, bro? It's been a rough sentence , boyz at, Joe, Jose you've been the best friends I could ask 4 It ' s been fun Mac, Aldo, Jorge, Eddie, Ray , LuP hanks to Mom, Dad, Alberto, Ayita, Ayachuchu , Io, Pa, Nina, Nino, Ti ta, Tata , Abuelas Victoria y Consuelo, Aubelo heo, and the rest ofthe clan. THANK YOU GOD! Love you all Class of971ives 4ever! We came, we saw , we onquered!
" It' 5 not wfiat you are tfiat Fw&:fs yo 6ack., it' 5 wfiat you think. you not. " - Denis Waitley
Bom 11/26/79; Hialeah, Florida; Five years at Belen; Key Club- 9-12; CREST Chairman- 11, 12; Xerox Book Award- 12; Student Council- 10-12; N.H.S.- 10-12; S.H.S. member- 10-12, Secretary- 11; ALPHA Club - 9·11; Honor Roll- 9-12; Peer Minister- 10-12; Youth Mission- 11.
Let your every act am£ word andi tFwU9ht 6e those of a man ready to depart from Cife this moment.
- Marcus AureCius
Cep ero) EdUardo
yes it' s WAWY. attitude boy. Na, na,na chill. dominoes at Javi's, Biltmore parking lot. "Bird Bowl billiards" ( Nach +Dave ). Our 1ft buddy. Riviera morning fog Junior year, WOW. Aldo, the man that fo ught the world. Lets give Ho m er. Pat&: Santi, Key West roadies. studying for jr. exams? Chris man, we have a Vball match now? Ed Vadia. Hoo t ie: bow li ng lOOmph Jr Journey, n ice toothpick, Chris lost a n 8. Close-Up '95, Carey 1 43 Manolo watch out 4 cars Alexis&: Adrian, camp outtings. practice 4 Camel Cup. Mono, flashlight. Biltmore Field t rip Key bisc. Lu is, rain doesn't hurt Yellow&: Black smugs. Memorial Day 96, sorry Hutch. 2 2 3 1. Hoop it Up Champ s Junior Pro m , thanx Bea, Du de Dog Bro Pearl Jam Con c ert, espantoso. DA=egghea d FSU#l. "Willi e v. Pablo." JCREW Xmas Shop ping Ed song #5. CG, thanx bu t n o t hanx. Homecoming 96, 20-14 PeteLaz is savior(daddy) has all but? PUMPKIN. Rene=cat. rose me. Chris is Chubaca. Lucho=love. Carollton prom, Honorable Mention. christian, I dont wanna go home th e product. DOTS. football is fun. Doughboy. Danny D. thanx KT 4evr. Pizza Hut: you boyz don know nothing. Surfing w Mac Pat Charcoal. stric tly foreign. gulliber. xroads. Malik da 5ft freak. Yearbook prod Mauri, Bince, Juanchi good luck. Jr Heat #1. Dolphins too. venetian pool. Holland. Well its over. Mom, Dad, Henry &: Ernie , for evrything & I love U all. Belen Class of 1997 4 ever
ACHIEVEMENTS : 7 years at Belen; 6-12 Basketball; All-Dade Hnr. Ment. (11) ; 10-12 Volleyball; All-Dade Hnr. Ment. (10, 11); 12 Football; All -Dade Hnr. Ment. (12); Student Council 6-8, 9, 12 ; Close-Up 95; Peer Ministry 11, 12.
Cervera, Armando Luis
IMPS KREW
WHO'S TO SING
E GET THERE • DANCE 4 MONEY • DRY • PEACE PLEASE ON MY WAY TO WHO KNOWS?????
UMBY • TIME TJCKIN AWAY • KIDS BEING KIDS !! * PACHA D OG " * SEVILLE * ALF COME
WHEREVER OU ARE • WALL • FOAM • SLACK NITE • BEWWY NICE • " YAKETY YAK"* S.P. CONCERT • IN XJSLE • BIG MAN • HESTA" • KOOL KIDZ • ITS TIME • NEAR SCRAP AT S.T. B'S B-BALL GAM E * D O N ' T SHO W ME THAT • ACROBAT • AN I HAVE A SPAWN? • "LET ME SEE YOUR EYES " * REEF ROAD * AFTER PARTY* HURR Y UP WE ' RE GOING UP • ENNY'S • WHAT'S TONIGHT?? • FREEDOM , YEAH RIGHT!* CASHED* NOTHING LEFT TO SAY, EXCEPT ITS EEN GOOD AND BAD (MOSTLY GOOD) • THANX TO EVERYONE INC. FAMILY AND FRJENDS * CANCU N, C. R. A ND OLLEGE IS FINALLY HERE !!!!
Cliica, Manuc(
Chica"' matanzas• Chinaco"' 1711bs.* District Champs• sa• Georgia camp• Te tlenes que sepillar los dientes• Jo Ua ckson. you a liar and a cheat .* I have 4 diagnosis* Vince. Ma uri & Victo r=E's• Fontuccio• Port St. Lucie trip .A J.S., M.C. & R.C. = roomates 4 e ve r* squash beer Don't thro w my cl ay (weechoo!) * two heads-one brain minibike wipeouts x 2 • 1think I'm gon na faint• Jose l!t Senora* Dr. Fib enstein* fath es of the r ebellion• main event a my house• Joe Grajiola• Chica means girl in Spanish* why'd you t ell Tommy me and Jose do .*1-800 #'s*lunch time Blitzkrieg wjVigo• that's what he gets for messing with me• so baco ' s* Key' s ' 95* when I grow up I wannabe .*Joker smile* thrashing in Roca·s• drop it in the zone• another round * The Chase• Ehi ulf co.* did you skat ere Dave?* the theorem • what kin d o f a name is Cuda?• Files of Basta rdry* "Lou Patino , what a trip"* no, esto e oco• Lollapalooza ' 96=mad grabbing • " don 't worry I'll get it" • Me+Nico+Dave+Aibert= K.D.E.* wh ere are my tacos German Munoz= Snake Pliski n " no Da n ny, you do n't h a ve a big head • Jack son 5 the A merican Dream * Broder let' go to Miami Twice * ugh chinua • Samm y , Michael tol d me everything* MD' s* D&O w j Tom * " the incident"* smackin' i pat grandma's"' hot, caliente! * Marco , you look like something Michel angelo carve d* Aldo pumping los trici' s* Br hat fat pig's lying A letter from a Latin A me r i can teacher* initiation=mushroom on forehead• Gigi Dec. 11"' wha if it were to get on my sh irt?* the shocker!* you look more Chi n e se Dave• Lauren I love you * Mom, Dad, Cristina , Diana & Abuelo I love you mo re* Snap p er I l ove you most!* For th e n ext 4 years of my life, I will be living in s eclusion with the Pigm y people of New Guinea , s ee y ou wh en I get back
23/ 06/ 79- Miami, Fl- 6 years at Belen -Varsity Wrestling- 9, 11, 12- District Champion- 11, Regional Runner-up- 11-12, Varsity Football- 11, 12, J.V. Football- 9, 10, Environmental Club 10-12, Big Brother12.
Ciocca, Marco Romano
J
Forza Italia-Summer 94 &96 Feragosto Bulldog-Amsterdam A Bona AJitalia What's American Boy Fenomenale Portorecanti Monte Orseto Webster, AQVA, Lola, Baxter, Gambrinus Bcvi, Bcvi-Chc ti fa bene Oh n'To, n'do vai Max , Vera Zapata Lurretu Ducati916 CBR600 Farisci Lungo flare Trankie Funkie 'me 'so Zac: Garelli-Piaggio Max Biaggi (!"1astJgottara Soffogottara Tortelhm alia Zmgara 11 Cocomero motorette Ba-BJgguns Jose=Pueyca Close-Up, Inauguration '97 Georgetown Put that napkin down, Peter wasn't funny, I'm still in Da de Co u nty Ghetto , G-Dog A Dream Defered In the nation Hot, Caliente Afterparties Ieepovers Hutch's Party part 1-4 Do U want that Marco, Club .3BAhmed Te gusta el carro omero Pe e-t rr Ita11an Stallion Rico Boost manteca-partner in crim e Ole, Ole, Ole-District hamps PK ' s Gulliver Mexican Jumping Bean MamajSubrageous Manager Truskees U can't eat n here son
Varsity Soccer District Champions- 12, Key Club International Trustee -12, Executive Editor ofVincam- 12, Leader of Leaders Award - 12, National Honor Society - 10-12, Spanish Honor Society - 9-12, Key Club Lieutenant Governor- 10, Kodak Young Leader Award- 10.
those wFw cfare to Jaif 9reatfy can ever acfiieve 9reatfy" - Ro6ert F. Kennedy
Co z zarl, Eduardo
Day 0 re cap (If I can) - J och, Nick, Paul, Josh , Mo nz, Patty, K ey Rats, Rubber Ducky, Wic h? and th e Mou ntain Man Pooch "Todos Juntos" rollin' w ith clips sk iff A v elardo and th e T equi. C rew Pet er where a r e the chunks? on e word Cruise! Pavs want a Sprite? Bon Vo yage Diana and Cra zy Mary $ $ S Martin a living hell Sarasota '95 Juanch, Rob , Syl Oh n o! the man Dui and the du ds Bouncin ' wjRoch RayRay ••. ho. ho Julia Ratti or Papa Ro ch wh o s e slicker? DARE -F Shannon Italian Stallion Doing the catwalk with "Picante " s ho Columbus Regatta '96 de bola! Flamingo Nights Mohican how's madonna? ..• Berlin B. - too easy! Mana Ia fogata Joch can you feel the Heat? . O squi 1 think the brownie needs more nuts Eddie V. it's fin ally over compadre ••. Time to go (Thank God!!) Nos vemos en Ia Havana '
Olj30j79; 7 years at Belen; Key Club (9-12); National Honor Society (9-12); Spanish National Honor Society (9-12) V.P. in 12th; Alpha Club (11), Don Quijote de Ia Mancha Award (11); Spanish State Conference Team (11-12); Who's Who (9-11); Honor Roll (6-12); Jose Rubino Award Finalist (11).
De AnguCo, Eric A.
Not I said the Bear Andy Steve's selling the Dusky Ed next time find your own ride let's go to UM Rob it's Kirk's background Andy Steven's not selling the Dusky Touring Miami wjEd flinstone breaks fermaaaando Sterling fastest car in the world?? Ralph how' d you get so big? Anatomy crew Ed let's not go How do we till Kirk I finally made state At the end of the season Donzi Z65 Canada trip wjWarren Ocean reefwjYoyito & Miguelito 5:30am tennis wjKenny Does she have a boyfriend Why Rob I thought that was funny My life hasn ' t started yet Jackie what happen wj Matt Patty, Jessica Ed its the fifth beattie UM crew Swimming on Sunday wjEd fernando pick me up Eddy the alarm r ii dn't go off Jason I dare you Matt we lost John Where's the car 2 more minutes I'm already going
Yoyito & his brilliant ideas Orlando trips Dade County champs Guillo & his girlfriends (special fr iends) Steve's Harley De Angulo Bowl 7th period
Computer Science Nick, Eddy, Hochi, Ralph, Tony, i enny, Warren Thanks to all my coaches, my teachers Thanks to all my friends for always being there 'HANKS Mami, Guillo, Andy, Kristel, Ma, Papa, Debbie, Charles, Steve, Tanya, Bob, Cissy, Eric, Blanca, Alfredo & Juan, I Love You all The End
" Do not JoCfow where the path may [eac[. Go insteru:£ where there is no pat arnf feave a trai['' - Murie( Strode
Born on May 28, 1979 in Miami, florida, Junior High swimming 6-8; Varsity swimming 9-12; Varsity letterman 1112; State Qualifier 11-12; Big Brother 12.
ui want to run [ike tlie [ions, refeas om tlieir cages, refeased from t ages 6uming in my souC tonight .. " - Pat!'iot 6 EcfcGe V ecfcfer
De Cardenas) Juan P.
py Aka:Wamps Nation ••. Bu mpo ..• fire side chats .•• Who Is that OUllive u goi g to room with me? • Florida Gators #1. Key's weekendS with the bo .• Mr Mcl ash. would you like t go fo r a connorwalk(David!) •.. Where is that toad .•. we going to study tonight ky D. are you going to talk Alf Claudia, you and I have to talk Dave your one funny bunny Andy Q icky T(you guys are awesome) "This last song was about love. this song is about love and trust" ••. Pearl Ja Hey Pat and Danny, what's that noise in Alfs car Nicole=hyper Hey, I don't have mood swings a ny H, were going to hang like little fishes Spinelli's with aldo Malick the five foot freak .•. Pat, are you ying attention? Claudia, you have a side track mind Nicole, did you like homecoming? I don't really an t to go to practice AldO=Coach Rene. he doesn't have an attitude .•. you guys made high school olerable thanks to: PAPI,MATI,BERT.ANDRES,PEDRO.PILLO&PILLUNA .•. Thanks MOM, I know you have een taki ng care of me But mo st important Thank you GOD, for letting me do it Whatever Bro, lm di pping
Varsity football 11&12.
Noloj colej canoli j cripplej #6j ljust didn ' t see the car coming!jergej Pero Porquej Bombitaj nick at rauls hangjnick dip dipjultrazonejlets go to shoneysjmanny polly want-a cackerjScream;nascarj Hack the planetj mike P. I'm chasing amyj Beatrice at marsj mikey lend me moneyj pio do your trickj Aido 2:lj danny you killed itjsolomon grandej lauren your my psychiatristj the analogy of the airplanej visit to St. petersj manny you almost killed usj ralph I cant believe you crashed your carj chocolate pit crewj javi we are the true driversj Norman give me your keysj danny you are so wipedj eric-the smurfj please holdj truck driver fred j its all dannys faultj ralph your not driving my carj spring break 97j vigo the Italian stallionj why must you do that; cant we all just get alongj mitchy your the enemyj triton crewj the triton is ol"l ftrej just hangingjfly pelican flyjattack of the killer penjfr. eddy oralsjbreakfast jump upj albert the devildogj going to dip/ thank you to everybody who was with me during the hard times , especially mom , dad , mikey, abulos y abuelas without you I wouldn ' t be where I am today. lm going to miss everyone a lot. to belen : I OWN YOU j St. Peters here I come.
JV football 8th; Football 9-l2th; Track lO, l2th; Astronomy l2th; Yearbook staff ll-l2th; Big Brother l2th; Key Club ll, l2th.
''Leru:C Joffow or 9et out of the way" unknown
''THE BUCK STOPS HERE"Harry Truman
Domi119uez, Danie( Jose
Wooly! Sod! Pok! Goo! Bumpy! Gordon Hhhello Aldol Brudda man Andy stop scratching Dornbusch You do not have a Ph.D Champa what; Champagnat O.K. O.K. Student Council Office Bestia, Besties Crew Nerd Crew Doug When's the next meeting long drive to Boynton Guadalajara forever You have a speech in five minutes Plenty of time I don't have a big mouth! Oh my God, look at the head on that chicken Marco, what's that choking sound? If you like fish and grits I don't want to stop, I like it Ike, l 2 3 CUBA Ohh Iordy! Omar, leader of men Very Nice Wawy they need time to shill Eddie, I need a hair cut Cuando a Vadedero llegue! Life is tough in the ghetto Ralphy! pass the ball You have been on probation for ll semesters You insolent little eighth grader why do you guys throw chalk at me AP Physics: I'd understand it if it were in English Aye Omar, it was excellent I loved every minute of it I am the mighty Oleg and I am his sidekick Lasha Cuarto Bate I wish I could play soccer Pedro, the passionate Pichardo mom, dad, Denise, and Nana, I love you Class of '97 brothers today, brothers tomorrow.
Duran} Ricardo
'cky D you see I have this theory Cavalier (hot-rod) #27 DEAD ROMEO ' S Mozart+Maxx Pea 7 Waldo Green Bay Pa c kers #l apple. peaches. pumpkin pie but, I've been known to do th impossible like Broadway J o e la dy I don ' t need the check me vs. the Coral Shores band fanbus t o eywest conch's homecom i ng ki ng- Waldo Jorge she wanted your phonenumber this will tak e a gugle# of minutes Mike, it's k e rnel Stirrup don ' t worry guys I didn't get wet Id i d n ' t s ee an ything peace to all my homeyz in Venezuela J uan a re you sure you can't play p oo l I didn ' t know it was a one way treet at the time sir, I can impersonate Bruce Spri ngs te injmind if I stand on the de sk Joe , I n eed a beat
'cky's Rhymes BBQ on SuperBowl Su nda y . J u an t hat doesn't usua lly happen at b o okstore s tac o b ellafter Ring Ceremony Richard hit m e p r etty h ard Du ran Duran?? Paco, how come the drive r's seat is rokenjhowdid he break it? this is Yogi Bear to Wall y Gator, o ver Mike.J oe,John,J.C. Pa co,G abby,Sammy, amey.Aif.Robert,Butter,Jason,Nick , Peace, Props ,good-l uck and I'm ou t li k e Buster Douglas
"envy is ignorance imitation is suicide'' - Rafpfi Wafcfo E mers on
Born October 29, 1979; Miami, Florida; 5 years at Belen; A L P.H.A.- (12); Marine Biology- (8); Varsity Football - (11) ; homeroom 12-B class secretary.
Escafona, Jason Andrew
Escudero, Ga6rie(
BU CKY&fU NKY fANTASMA .•. LEOPARDO Where ' s AJbertico La PANTERA ..• da le lo que quiere BLI TZCRIEG (GABBY, SAMMY, VIGO, CHICA ) hey you touched my face let me get you (driving down th street going 70mph) "Wow sammy look at that I think I found my talent " The best things i n life come in 2' "I wasn't sleepln" you can' t call shotgun I h ate SUNDAY's why do I always go first on oral quizes ..• 1985 f-150 6inch lift .36 MicheyThompsons Ro ll bar KCiights (MY DREAM) Supreme Champion of Jigal Gam e Latin Jigalo •.. Gatos Locos Cazzolas (Andy Aguirre) vs. Mike ' s Pizza (Gabby&Sammy) Hey Ricki
b ust a rap Hey Stephen do me a favor I love Big Dad dy Joe You Gotta do it . 6 degrees of Kevin Bacon ..• I'm not Psycho ..• Esa Chica esta entera Thanks for the re view GIZ drove his tra in into a .30 ft. ditch D BULL I miss kindergarten I hate Evil Dann y l ook a t t hat band
(( Tiie. man w flo thinks tlie same at ·rorty tlie way lie c[U{ at twen1y wasted ftwen1y years of liis Cife." - Muliammacf ACi
SAMMY THE BULL SIF cosa nostra latin jigalos gatos locos deuce Escudero wake up 6 degrees of Kevin Bacon champ Suki, Helen, Rio Al;bertico es mi amigo especial Dirt Minds 1985 f-150 a.k.a. HEAVEN your on the hit list who is the best coach? (auggie, smilie, eddy, hansen, fraga) (vigo, gabby, salvat, chica) mike's pizza vs cazzolas spare some change BIG DADDY OE'S full rack graham center study habits no one beats viky let's go outside (statue of liberty, camping) is Ferny sleeping here tonight monkey are you going to the keys let ' s go to new wave WWF & WCW champ ••. I'm not psycho ••. I hate Hialeah let me warm up I don't want to pull a hammy your late can go to the bathroom can't wait till the weekend gabby next wee k it's your tum Mark, J.C., John, Paco orge, (what memories) straight edge mandy play some pearl jam fidel te puedo ganar ninja, y I ebitas thanks teresa and lull gracia por todo abuelos thanks mom and dad thanks belen for all th nfo I LOVE YOU GUYS
So what you call yo ursel f, Eh? Co mo se llama? (Chri s) - SHUT -Xtrue till death X - murrieeeaaugh , they're newsweeks! - Wa it o k you ca n be in m y m o vie -Haay! - wit An dy - efe!, zero ! - God is like a theeef in the night! - I hope they don ' t se e m y t ints- h ey bro , y ou g onna see DEA D MA N WALK I N' - Lisi & Ch i nelle are punk - roa d trip to Blue Notes with J , Carlos, Da nny , Ren e, & Vic - Luly is - Naples sc en e - Who you think you talkin' to ? EH? What you th in k I am your freakin' bellb oy? -I LOVE YO U, ZEN! - Snapcas e i s awesome live , h u h J? right Claudia? - John is 91runge, no goth, no industrial, no punk, no , no ghetto, no c o nfused -Disease boy (pink death, lapracy, rubella, etc )- Save your money! Buy some sneakers- DE HWAT!- Chris, you going to luao- 4 people and a boombox - Frank fix your muffler&:. bumper- Tim Hardaway- It's grafitti - Mr SirIt's cool to be different, J.C.- Get over it, he ' s my brother- break yo se l ffoo- What you say about my mamaLa, La , La, Ha, Ha, Ha - When all else fails, Ultrazone -We 're gonna d i e! - Letters to Cleo, J? - Bob Dole goes to X-masformal- Everyone loves Chinelle!- Ay, que Iindo- The Logos- That's not proper- Sin frenos! A million! - Ehhhl- gooni googoo- And you know this MAN -J stop playing Come as you are- White boy ra ps - Kendall- Hormigas forever- Jason T h irsk R.I.P.- I've built myselfto last- You mess with me, you messin' with the best - UP!
the. douds , I see my s Fuufow lrlj , out of the. comer of my w ateri119 ey e, dream untftreatenecC 6y t he. mom-1 a i119 [iqlit - PINK FLOYD
Fernandez, Francisco Javier
PacojPjPPP T he Dogg Pound : Se r gi o,Sam my & Gaby, MIKEjNick,N olo,dave,Danny, Bara,Butter,Pepe ,Mandy , PezjMac,Bot, Pat,erik,mike,Barney, pescado,JP,Fat-boy,Tom & Lou , osc ar,Dave,DougjE,TA,JS,KK,PJ, Princess,RP,TRjAD,CA ,FJ,KM,IG,D,JG,d,M,SR, G,V N,CR,o,CF, V ,J,m ,CG,NDL,C , Tjev eryone from back in the dayjeveryone I forgot I'm sorry 6 yrs. have gone b y quick White Lie, JMP, Gatos Locos, Tribe Zulu 6-10 the quiet yrs 11-12 the bold yrs MRC with JC , my keys John's chicken legs PPP Pi g s . 1st sq Mark ' s Parties a night at the Eden Rock B-Day House Party -saturn's are for real men John can finally drive at night an d even du rin g the day J C and Mark's little acci d en t Psyc oSergio Junior Pro m rafter p arty at J C's Ho meco ming '96 scrub, contest, D won JC and his many beats Tupac RIP I love Biggie wes t-si d e ' till die Senior Ring Ceremony Hutch's House Joe and John jock Mandy's gui ta r skills I sa w Ja mes Pumpkin's Concert Darcy threw me a kiss philosophising with a bum at 2AM J C can hang unlike John Rosh's House Parties Jesse's House Pa rties Lady no Baron stop that eating dog fo od with Nolo Senior Skit Sabat Chase Triton Towers the Pond immy versus Scottie the Star Wars Tri l ogy how ya doin Chewbacca Joe ' s stylish hair Nick & Nolo over the fence listening to Floyd@ Hobie with Angie Sen. Encou n ter Panther games@ J oe's Zu's Rep murraigh is this Rage Iii Mandy my hero we don't love them no Thanx Mom,Pop ,Bili,Mano,Carmo , Maria,&Yeya See you when I see you.
1 , 1979 Miami, Fl.; 6 years at Belen ; Key Club 9, 10, 11, 12; Varsity Football Practice Squad
, 10, 11, 12; Varsity Bas eball Practice Squad 9 , 10, 11, 12; Varsity Basketball Practice Squad
Fernandez, Oscar S
scar10squV#.1.2/I'deat'Fhem-Nicole1PapiPerdiEICarro-AibertiGetOutOITownljSi nPenaConConftanza-AngeljPens cola'95fPerfsacole 96-MeDaveNecheMario 1 ThefatBo ylsComingThruTakeHisShoesOff-Leo 1 JuanBarrenwhite-K yWestj Quillenno Where OldY ou GetThatWatch?IBestNights=li27196*2120196*3122Bf.2.3/96•4tl8f96*Memorial ayW 1 C loseUp ' 95-Could'v Ada m?1AIIIWantlsTheTaxifHutchDidYouCatchThe OclockfeeiGood nOfSportscente ?1MyMomWiiiDoJtforMe/ManoiO+Oscar=2 Bamblnos;MathlsfunlJavyGonn SeeStaceyM C>ranTb.dlte?jffansen=StopLookingAtMyGlrlfrlendjVeryNiceWawyiThey'reAJIGonna L aughAtYou?fNo #lUISeniorSkit-PA(Babies!)jBarbieLianeseddyjSummerCamp'95&''961Lerdo 1 Nas so;AndYourGonnaLikeltjLouMacjiWannaBeAModelj MamaSanlfunqu tejEd-BBV/UM = NCA Afinai41Ki-Ki-Ri-VujHershelfNoSoup4YouljCogeloConTakeltEasy-RalfyiAGUILO!jE ddy&H tchLetsOo2Eddy'sCopiesjWhatDoYouWantToDrink-Aiex&:RaulfDoggonet;Oscar G oMeditatejJoeYourANiceGu auseMostOuysLeaveHerHanginOnTheBranchj I'm Doing Cros s CountryforTheRing/StraightDieselfWhyDoYouHa eSoMuchlce-KeyWest(Leo)jNewOrl ans'97HereiComefThanks2EC•JRJIJ*DM*AP*AR*JS(PJ)*JL*PC*PH*JRT*AWRR * G*MD • MC •AM•PaolaThanks4EverythingYouveDone4MejLuvUAiwaysDadMomCrissyAbuelos Abuelas TiosTiasC usinsTeacher&:Every1WhoHelpedMeGet2WhereiAm2day.
{{Don't 6e a car6on copy of sometfii119. ak.e your own impression .'' -
6 j 3 j 79; Long Island , New York; 7 years at Belen; 4.0 GPA; Key Club 9-l2; NHS 10-12; Spanish Honor Society 10-12; 6th Grade Baseball MVP; Junio High Baseball 8; Varsity Baseball 9-12; Captain 12; Close Up ' 95; Florida Spanish State Conference 11-12; Peer Ministry 11-12 ; PMIA 11-12.
Garcia, Jose A
ay the force be with youjchicken, it's paint!jthey're newsweeks!jTim Hardawayjls this Rage?jPearl Jam Oct 96jred .•. redjScottie Pippen #1jbig cheeses; Arian Keljring ceremony night nibbles, JohnjOye Caballo hora note puedes dejar el chivo para el weekend homeroom with T. PerezjChewie: "muaaaarrr"jHow y tlo inj Chewbacca!jl touchedJames,Smashing Pumpkins Nov 17 ' 96j"Wowsers"jDolphins #1/School movies: Pig Aliens and FrankeristeinjSenior encounter: "Dude, they're ty ing up people!"jStar Wars fan till I die!jMannyj ave the body of a god yeah, Aphrodite, J.C.jthat's so neutraljDon ' t talk to himjWings Rule!jStar Wars 97jDoouuuwl The SimpsonsjButter's brown Paco's orangej triple P PacojAyyyy! La policia jPerez-Giz ' s lass .3rd period: "Heeey! Light's up"jthe lunch crew Black lntrinity straight outta Lo-cashjKristy+Jessi 'lvette and your brotheri!"/Mr. Sir/That's so ghettojPigeon-ratjDave, that girls was so angryjMADjlf I had know hen what I know nowjMad setjChicago grunge or Seattle grungejl owe you one forjHomerjl miss you Ralp Demon Dog)jJam session at Mac'sjl Love you aii=J.C.,John.Paco.Arian , Kelvin,Dave.Mandy.Marcus,Sara,Nick,Flo eena, Aly,Danny,Ricky,Melody,Frank,Jason.Kristy, Jessica,Lisa.Erin.Mark,Melody,Mike,Angie,Vannessa,Samm Gabby,lvette,Roshan, Cartos.RobertjLove and Thanks to My mom,dad ,grandma and sister for their love an upport
1 HAb If
" Don't Cet tfie cfii[c( you were 6e asfiamecf of tfie man you will 6ecome. "
-My Dru:f
Garcia de Cos Rios, Juan E
PacoJCJoeMarkZuNickBigMikeRickyDButterSammy&GabbyMandy&JorgeTheir newsweeks! *Yoda lmpressions*lts just paint! *Mu rrairr! •u could Bin my movie*Chewbaca AAA! *The Simpsons*The Pond (never again) *Triton Summe r* Sable Chase*ldidn't bite!*Nibbles• WhiteBoy Rhymes*Now I show sum trick or 2!*After parties 4 whatever*Perez-Gi z' class• Can I B cook with U guys?*EI Avestruz y El Lo b o*The beach with Mandy & Mac*lrish=Nick, no wonder!*Little Oscar*Moming C rew at BK*Pacos useless fun facts* Fina*SOS*Economy*Pompano96'Wows ers! •com e here bo y ! *Tri pie P*The Eden Rock*Stop leeching o ff me!*Oye cab allo!*The C row*Cancun with Jessy*Jessy=my swe etheart"' BigHea d*Danny A.*Dave M.*Kom*NJ N rules !*Sp eciaiSpri te*b each roof t ops*! really dont feel like go i ng 2 school2-day*Ghett o Red*l touched James!(S.P.concert) *Merry X-m as Park*Mexicans at Canal Bait*Airl was half asleep , I swear!*Star w ars 97'*1awnjobs* Gunigugu*Evilmomin gs*Dont kill it!*Nicks 7sec 32* *Your on the list*TP's class*ls that Rage?*H ow ya do in Chewbaca?!"'Mad l guana*Busch Gardens 96&'97'*Paco move your fat head!*( never liked U Angie. (J. K. )* Frankensnard, the movie*My bad"'Paco lost weight*The Volvo*JOE DRIVING*Lets get em!*Chillin a t Jessys*Jessy, th anx 4 being there 4 me, B with me 4-ever*Deni lluv U like a sis thanx 4 everything*Jorge thanx 4 being my bro thru t he years*Ana R. & Jorge thanx 4 being my 2nd parents*Thank U Mami. Papi, Cristy, Taty, Candy, Panchy&Juan tha nx 4 all youve done, U made this all happen and thank U God I finally made it I'M OUTTA HERE!!
*Being in Belen for SEVEN years. *Alpha Club (10th grade); *Astronomy Club (Senior year); *Honor Roll 6th thru 9th; *YearBook Staff (Junior year). '
Garcia, Ramiro NicoCas
what the?j nightruns j chillin' atbeach j let me show ya j Igottawhalej t1awaiian partyj METt10D/ Whatisthisstuff?j FA MILIA=Ralph ,JavL Fly, Eric(twin),Billy,Dave j Livinup2expectationsj palitoj Eric next time; OKj got daring j D ,how'b outthatbusride?j Photos Mike!jtrust mej don ' t touch thatjt1owdidldoTy?/ t1elloboyzj toastinj St.Bj Pitufo Cosineroj T ritoncrewj Cali=JESS&'Tonyj downboyj whome?Imwitdapool bro!jJohn ,JC,Paco ,Zu,Mark, Twinsj YeahJootballj #21/ CG1434 7j Nolo ,its flashinglightsj lastYr. ' sSeniorsj hookitupjwechilllikedatj Mandy &' palsj Bro , Imtiredofdisj Wt1A T!j damnstraight j whutnowj canu walkcuzlcantj 7-4 flamingochasingjniceJen&'MojCauseitsFridayweain'tgotnojob&'w e ain ' t gotj Fired?!jBAM!jRonistairsj lmaFullback!j Berrynicej llooklikewho?j Javi-u're fatjRalphf ShutupMike!j easykil lerj whutsdatsmell ?j Uknow mefromwhere?; onewitdawallj lblendj Pleaset1old/ strandedjPero Porquej beentheredo nethatgotaTshirtj DIP!DIP!j howlongRUgoing2 stay therej Poolcrashingj JustBiockj chocolate!jCole -Tricklej rooftops j evil mourningsjPG ' sclassj TP' sclassj incredible misadventures of mej7sec.40j singitt1eadj lmoFAIL!j dawhatj Dom aMagicj lmonthelistj t1ang atmicasaj t1EEEY !j itspaintj clappin ' witButterj SP ' 96j Love2allmy family&' friendswho ' veh elpedwhenlvefallenj CALABASAj Thanx -I'm outies!
6 yrs. at Belen , J.V. Football - 9-10; Var. Football - 11-12; Track&' Field - 10-12; Key Club- 11-12; I.D.D. Chairman- 12; NHS- 10, Beta Club- 11-12; Treasurer- 12.
Arnf notfiit19 now rema.ind to dO But 6egin tfie game anew -A.£. Hous eman
on' t 6e ajraicf to peer tlirougli t ortaf to your souL Don' t 6e ajraicf to answ er t lie unans wera6 Ce question. -
Garcia-Tu1Wn, Ro6erto D
nice good not good Money Big Brother Sweeny Playing with Fire Amadeus Rosen and Guild are Dead Bent ITS ayy Robbieee wanderer Buba Mama Lobek attention Spider Rabbit Espana : Jones, Sergio , Jose , Monica,y todos she ' s so light Michael Michael apply the divine spark now Leo J. Williams Complete Works Interview where ' s the bucket pa-pema-pem and why the perfect murder Pablo in the cellar Jose am I uhh Marcos Mike where ar we laugh at the moon Don Cabeza shine Dalmation Alex, Omar, Luis, Charlie, Tommy , Luis .' : Mario, Jose the blue th i ng yo soy muy listo vale in the park Jerry, Cleveland, Font family vs friends m ami, papi , Ale x , mamamas, Jorge David, Abebi, primos y primas I've always wanted to leave behind wo rd s o f wisdom in my dots dots and my senior quote. Now given the chance I can ' t . Ohm grandfather sp eech MaratjSade Pepito Maylen, Teri, Aruna, Jennifer (all of them ), Lisette, Andrea and Patino Cres tian Classic take some cokes Fayetteville the "Z" summer annoy La tienda Ia Capana co n el dedo colega Williams isn't angry and you lmow how I feel about the theater tell me l'm pre tty d o the dance Marcoses, (Fer)nando, Maria all those in my family and all my friends I love you good bye good b ye parting is such sweet sorrow farewell
Guida, Hum6erto C
"We are the wolverines!" Hey Pat let's revolt Krls's wierdness gets me through the day is Ms. coming? Chris P.'s down Friday afternoons with boys at the spot Danny never mentioned the Revolucion Homecoming senior year in Eric ' s car- Hey Ruban! My Carli-giiirl DeeJayPeeJay Edge Zen festival96, Wow! ••• My friends at C.C. Flipside duder Fat mammalian John they out? Me and hate relationship Ray's house We are real ravers Ruben .•. Pink Floyd Marley Fest, Hey Bobby these rks paid for us taking the wrong route to Cypress Hill Amethyst at the beach, poor Mariloli .• 4 ver- the mother of all miss ions .•• Ruben appreciates my humor me I'm someone else July 4, 96me and Javi must retrieve the duder while Yendi figures out what l did to Remember people, we'rethe coolest people here to all rny friends who made the last four years
Danny , John, Javi, Ruben, Eric, J.P., Luis, Ray, Julie, Elena , Marl, and Carlianne I love all of you To that has put up with my stupeild.ess personality, fapi, Mom, Nicole, Abuelas, Abuelo, Tia, Victor, and the ••. I appreciate what you ' ve done for me •.. Hey Belen, I'm outta her I
4/9/79; 7 long years at Belen; Football 8-lO, letterman; Key Club lO; Amnesty Int.
President ll; Model U.N. l0-l2, V.P. ll, First place Atlanta
Vincam ll-l2, Features Editor
Big Brother l2.
Guarcfate! La Cosa Nostra viene ogg · er ammazzarti Cliiede eC tuo
- Freddie 1-13-97
Hernandez-] over, ACexander
peopfe have bd21 y closest friends throu out the years. Thanx for being there. I hope we stay Two Shay( 1Jlno's Taco belli The To The entire ftns crew. They'll win It this y. r. @!#%?&- Brown. HabU:in dos Panther? (wiggle rows). A sho out to the 1adl esiree, Kristy, Patty, Cri y, Ileana, Yvette , Anrile, Nma, Monic(J. To Liz: Helloooo, thahx for be uch a great friend all these years. I don't g o Laura: t for helping out and lisrening to an ve had to say. Love ya. And now most importantly, my family 1'1 , Dad llov you both with all my heart, thanx fori always being there for me. Sorry for all To Vero, tha lbrputtlng up with me You know I love you ve uch. You can always count on me for anYthing. Para Abuela, -gracias cuando me hacia falta. Yo e quiero mucho. (Prestame tu carro) Mirna y Pipo, los QUi m . Que os los bendiga. May God bless all m amily and friends with many years of health and happinesS. Pok ls the Sf$reme ruler Big Head is in tha house!! arkley will get his championship. Orange Jubilee. t be a Heh heh! Frankenstein song. Dolphins, anthers , Heat, Marlins all the way baby! The big three klckln' it at MIT - Sod Fischer I will make it to the NBA , ou're wrong ROCA! Thanx to all my teachers fortheirh lp. I love the class of'97. Thanx for coming out God bless ou and good night.
Born October 19, 1979; Miami, FL. Four years at Belen. Key Club 9-11 grade; Varsity Football 11th; Varsity Water Soccer 9-12th; Big Brother; Will attend FlU.
Hidal!Jo, Patrick Francisco
at*Seams•vr-Diehard Cuban that can't speak Spanish•The Silver Bullet•Thanx for the Toy BB*Westchesta ove*Yabba Yabba*8th Gr. Renaissance*EGP*Oid Schooi-Santi-Leo*corrupting the kiddies of 97*Where did freshan Year go?*Where is he anyway?*Nicole-How about some ice cream?*Xmas formal at the Lake*Tree-KFC?*PEARL AM-unforgettable*Candlebox-looong drive*NIN*Palooza ' 94(&' egg incident)*Danny, sometimes I wonder*sneakin out of Chris' for the Edge*Summers at 26•Xjomy-New Jersey Daze*Dancin' w Savana*Look what Yak did to your rug ndy*.3 am Philosophizing wjPete•crass now-elegance Iater*Whats up Dog!*Danny D-tell me a story of a strug e*LuP-How's the Giza?-Thanx for Planet Hollywood*PJ-stop stressin•Yaque Arriba*BAD case of Senioritis*Patty atty*Mandy (the Acrobat)-tell your Mom to chill*11.3-10.3 alliance*Riding on the Storm at the Planetarium*Aido, each me your ways (What was that line again?)*Come up&. see Kristen's Beach*bad one at the beach*Jr Joumey*J rom..CC"Wamps Nation will never diel*my short attention span*Homecoming-Christy we're finally starting to go ou owi*Runner Up·Prince?!*Boynton Beach-in Love&' confused(&' long drives)*"Jamie, you're awesome" *Miami girls ust aren't for me*DC bound-Hoya?*Martha &' Britney-You ' re in my prayers*Mom-Dad-EIIie-Rosie-Manny-BibHnLawsCristina, you've been all my guidance &' inspiration-1 Love You*Thanx God, It's been a great journey through olverland
pearl jam.
{( In ran eye for an eye' eventualiy everyone will go 6[incf." -Dr. Martin Luther Ki119, Jr.
(( Tfiat wfiat you fear tfie most co t you lialf way" - EMie Vedcfen
}aco6y, Juan CarCos
c
Go Peps Malaka Father Cartaya's class Deaja Vu all over again Peps, RauL Manteca , Ethie=you guys are the best swimming injeans at Ralphie ' s Me and Mantecon driving all night w j a in the back of the Jeep Esa Loca Friday nights at Chillis Be-woolf Kiki goofy Junior Prom (Lupita) Summer at the Keys Lupita+Daniella , you're the best Key Key Biscayne bridge (Dave G.) sleeping in a church parking lot 5 A M .' s at Denny's Dade County champs district champs all Catholic state champions SHaded Thanks Ralph Ladesma Thanks Mrs. Icaza olle ninja Ft. Lauderdale all-nighter Mr. Roooca big toto Rahim Jamal The Brotherhood of goo you smell you want some uh uh candy last minute homecoming
Spanish Honor Society- l0-l2th; Key Club- l0-l2th; Special Award: Key Club- llth, First Team All -Dadell-l2th; District Champion- l2th, Int. Foreign Language Award winner- l2th; Varsity Swimming- 9-l2th.
7 years at Belen; Varsity Football 11 12; Varsity Track 8 -12, 4x400 Relay Champ; JV Football 9-10; NHS 10-12; JNHS 7-9; SHS 10-12; Key Club 9-12 Chief of Staff (12); Student Council 6-12; JETS 2nd in State; P.M.I.A. 11-12; Amnesty
Belen
It's time to get priorities it's time to rearrange Won't tum away any Conge t' s time we maR.e a ch.ange. - ray o day
buttercup-this songs kinda fast-you failing anything, oh yeah-let's go bowling-july 6-my rug is purple-i don ' t think this goes to Ft. Laud.-unbearable-what is this-i was skating all day-what do i look like-pumpkins-burgers, chips-the gout-kirby puckets-54321-i was thinkin and he was thinkin-i'm gonna squash that toad- " G " ride-mosquito islandmonkey roll uo your window-best 2 oughta 3-excess-you are the best-god riddance-what are you doing with lisa-one puerto rican and 50 penguins-an arab-rock lobster-trilobite island-funkagen waffles-all this lovin-gordo, ewok peacock-wamps, gopher-chino, james-bighead, puerquito-soupface, fivel-redbeard, mr. oreo mad scientist-table 14- " ultimate"-i like the old rene better-andy=sellout-dam see-peace to my homies and much love to mom, dad, mario , gus, alex, christy , nena, and graciela
San Juan, Puerto Rico; 7 j 23 j 79; 5 years at Belen; Marine Biology Club 6; Environmental Club 11; Key Club 9-11; Senior Skit 12
Lfama III, Ro6erto
((Wfien I [eave I don't know what I' fwping to fincC anc[ wfien I [eave don't know what I'm Ceaving 6eliincC." - NeuPeart
s Ev ery6ody In, The Ceremony I s 6out To Begin. - J im Morrison
Keepin it real .3 musketeers Slack days Chillin at Riviera La Lucha Libre Cranking 1-800 Whats up there fruicake Throwing down with Oaspi and lggy ..• The chase Civic days Hadds 0 for 20 ellow Lab ..• Crank the Primus Tommy the Cat 91n U=T.C.B.Y. incedent Bimini days Cruise Lisa, Lisa •.. 4n6 .•. Bent Almost Lou The Veever Foggy Windows Cookie Jar Dam you Beco am you Turi ..• Ghetto Rodeo Nihilistic Feeling Close Up Russian roomates Jewel Sweets Oood oks And oh so much more Posedion Say crazy Robert Sodapop Curtis Lights Up Freepo aays T hooks it up fat Hole in the dingy Freeport cops Whats wrong with you Junior Prom alene? ..• Ch 51 Ouids, Rene, Tommy Bea Bea best neighbor Clipper at Bea's .•. The majic bottle ey Rats Cafeclto Shan king dirty .•. Rafas party Me and Kristine Who would of thought Renee (leal with it Ahh puppy dog Whats up sexy Little Buttercup Bea thanks for your house •.. And you Suburban Algebra and Oov Thats ruff Christian=savior ..• Twice Rooming nuts Hey Sebby •.• Chop Chop Oet your shine box Manny : Rancid, Ramones, Rage Mad moshing Pacha .•• Lon Island Swanktrovision Chessy J.D Spanish Accent Rand Rat my house She's grounded •.. Sinclair Nlco messin around Dave we are off Javi 1 have a joke ••. Javi, and Frankenstein : • Lou It was some good times Props 2 All the Belen crew Challers crew .•. Bea and Renee Thanks for alwa being there Renee ..• and of course 2 my Rooca Kristine No matter how far we are You'll always be with me Mom and Dad best parents Titl don't worry it's a great ride Much Love Hey Ho Let's Oo .••
Born: 7 j 2 j 79 ; 6 great years. Football 9-lO; Wrestling 9-10; Beta l0-l2; Forensics 10-12; International Thespian Society ll-l2; Senior Skit; lst place duo C.F L ll; 2nd place duo F.f.L. Duallst places D.I., Duo F F.L. All Star Cast l2; Addict; The Trojan Women; The Outsiders; Interview Big Brother Program.
Lforente, Micfute(
Amor en Accion -10-12; PMIA youth group -11, 12; Key Club- 9-12; JV Football- 9-10; Varsity Football11, 12; Varsity Wrestling- 9-12; Varsity Track and Field- 9; National Honor Society- 10-12; Junior National Honor Society- 9; Spanish NtiS -10-12; Student Council- 6-12; Honor Roll- 6 -12; Vincam- 11, 12; Silver Knight nominee - 12; t10BY leadership seminar- 10; Academic Achievement Award - 6-12; Peer Ministry10-12; Junior Encounter Coordinator- 11; Senior Encounter Coordinator- 12; Who's Who Among American
''E( que no vive pam servir no am vivir." - anonymous
Macau) Marcos Antonio
LMAC CH O MP! Furrrr U OOPS! Monay COSTA RJCA MOUNTAIN DEW Are u a JAMMER What R Ya Bo aa PEARL J AM SMASHI NG PUMPKINS ROCCCCCA AWESOME 3 YA TU SAMVEH!! CA LIFORNIA T RIP Das du BOM! Quepos surf MICHAEL JORDAN What's up! Got 75cents Saaaau Beach GOLDS GYM 1000+ SWELL!!!! Nightsurfing Penrods 9st Yumpings 04 ESCOND IDA X WESTCHESTA WA MPS NATION Peunsils Sebastian Surf NORTHSHO RE BRAW! BRIN DIS Bisca yne Baby HELlOS 4EVA What eva! NOT AGAIN J u s t do i t Mad Dog Big Dog Hat KID S be i ng ki ds AVP Finally won$ HAN G LOOSE Boca rave UVE WITH PASSION helmet PATCHA LA BOOM OSHUN Pedri MAUMDI SEVILLE RULES SWEET SAVANNAH VIVA ARGENTINA DUCKDIVE!!! Peach Fuzz DE NNY 'S DAYS Wh ere's AJf HOT -CALIENTE How's Alexia Luavvra Sahvvra Sunrises BARC ADO BROWNIE TOUC HDOWN Da ytona and back CLA SS of '97 , YOU ' RE T HE BEST EVE R Thank you God for all you r blessin gs. Special thanks to GASTON , for all your help and inspiration Mom and Dad. thanx fo r my f r eedo m , I trie d my best. GOD BLESS the CLASS OF '97
Mantecon, Afexis E
anteca Manteca Brown Mantequilla #16
STATE CHAMPIONS '96 Runner-ups '95 Aw. so ose 4X800 School Record Vincam Rules, Bolo Key Club Conventions, I've had enough Shampo es, what a bright idea Bronco Pump Let's study for Chemistry on Sundays Chonkos North Carolina I think we're lost Let's play Pin@#Ball Let's go to Danny's Anyone need a Christmas tree New Years '97, finally i can drink (Coke) Deja Vu Raul, my choffer, How's Christy. freak, Do you still feel dead inside?, 2 more months. Cancun baby, friends 4-ever Ivan, Einstein, Let me see your Gerber Knife. Ruski. best o he best, always stra ight kick but in UM Eric. see you in the olympics, Puerto Rican piece of?, Pepe, Dominican onder, stop drinking Gatorade Marco, business partner, Italian stallion, How's Christy? Oscar. Eddie Veder, Fuffy and Chinita, Nicole ?, party at my house, ke ep i n touch ..• Danny P, bad parties, how's that tap running, good luck in UF, offroading at 2: 0 0 Armando, g etting a little chubby, nice Jeep, don't yak Ralf, thanks fo ri everything, sorry for everything Ana, keep in touch, let's go ride bike, love ya Karla , I'll never forget you nnette Lopez, thanks for Homecoming Javi, what's wrong with your dogs, Grad Party ' 96, G ' tuck at BC Frankie, I'm at your house Thanks for everything, Mami, Papi, Edith , Tito, Tita, Abuelos, Abuelas, RauL Ivan , ric, Pepe, Armando, Danny, Javi, Frankie, DSG, Mud, Oscar THAT'S ALL FOLKS
Belen: 6-12th; Cross Country: 6-12th- 5 year letterman, STATE CHAMPIONS- 11th, Runner-ups- 12th; Track and Field: 6-12th -6 year Ietteman; Soccer; Key Club; Vice President; Vincam: Editor-in-Chief; Respect Life Club; NHS; SHS; Knights of Malta.
"I BeCie, I Be[ie, I Be[ieve That's AQ T="olls" - Porfiy Pig
({Walk so_ft[y aru:C cany a bi£1 stick., y ou wi[ 90 far" - Theodore Rooseve[t
Martinez) A C6erto E
3*.3.Y.30*Lamar*Postalita?*Home and away gloves*Bomb Squad*Juice, Snake , Pez , Machete, Mas*Hi, Mauri*Juggl 'em*Vince, lookl*Dado*Vic Mizzac*Manny, what do the brothaz call thiS=Props*George, who are you taking to omecoming?*l ain't runnin' pattems*Jrs, come out hard for the nine-seven*Hot*Caliente*Bondin g w;a Tampa and handshake*LiamaS=$$$*Bagok*Lights up!*Tommy, you know I can drop you*Kike*Luis, let's sho people!*Ecld s. the teachers*Sebby=Getaway driver* AAB=There is n substitute•one more round*throwing down*the chase*should we tell Dave?*ho,ho,ho*DAHAVE, lets get some Popeyes*Pigeon-rat*Let's thrash*Jose, Jose, Jo se!*Manny and "the move"*Bro, I threw down*dirty•s b, who are you taking to homecoming? oops*A Fro m an, sausage king of Chlcag o*Yo chico*Arrgh, tis no man, tis a bea t*Divide by the theorem*Johnn red*CH JLANGOS!*Craig! Air·it-out(2· ?)*George, tlra codo*Sebby, rip one Ugh, Chinua*Di me lo*Bowser*Sweet rev rakata *Violence at 9:32 am • e rompo Ia cara*Chop-Chop wjcurry and mustard*Bad ge , it looked s eai!*Ed Jorge?*GratzWLa n cea g e*YB·ing*We ate so rry*Manny and L a rry Kenne ay*Mocho Sat. Nov. 25, 1995 1. P Gators. V. Noles. BHGS. at. FF*That's what sh gets*Test me test e, come on nd arrest me*Are you te lin me it's 8:25?*Ha, you kidding it's my nd time, 1st time t hey er closed*Buckshotz*HEYI*Your l eg, Gerry's Farm?*Shlmano shoe damage•mabad*No, your annoying me*l don 't iv *Thats what we were, we we Goodfellas*Much love to God*Much love Mom, Dad, Luis, Abuela*Much lov e x·tra rothaz (Erik, Dave, Frank, Luis, Mike) much love to my friends and good luck*( closed fist pounds left che st)"*
David Rau(
ve #3, 12, 18/baseball roadtrips: Naples .•• Key West .•. Pensacola Thanks Raul & Leo one eyed willie •• izmo/1 think I broke my leg coach. New Orleans with Javi, Hansen, Fraga???? .•• Javi, call me when you go se tacey Moran again/C. Sel>astlan Rice=roommate Close Up '95. Everything's closed. Ragi-what a babel/Grad Nigh 97 m can't wait!jPiays: Addict ••. Outside Senior Skit '97 lnterviewjMANNY C=workout partner. You yes are more chinese than mine my small bisceped friend/BERT!! How fast is your car?jfreak Se lem, good luck a moryjRun Nico run! Thanks for getting me through LA/ Van essa thanks for everything/Sorry I couldn't put you i y senior page JennyjMandy=AmoldfWuz up Bumps ?=Wamps (Juan P)jPeiia, sorry about the car. Only me an ou really know what goes on in the back of clas s; Me+Mandy+Nico+Pefla=Frankenstein '96/Mac , when are we goin o Warsaw again? Be sure not to pop a tire t h is timej Dog Mach ine=J BarrenechejOscar, "D o you like brown ?"/Me & T Llamas off to LoyolafThanks to Belen frien ds, teammate s coaches, teachers a n d family: Dad, Mom abe, Danny, & Brunojgood luck & much lo ve to everyone.
(( It' s 6etter to regret sometfiing you cfid tlian to regret not cfoing sometfiing at a[['' - FCea of Recf Hot Cfiilli Pep pers, 1995
1/9/79, San Jose; 7 years in Belen. Baseball- 6-12
Key Club- 9-11
Medina, Francisco
Hey YO!! What's up? " Love to my friends and family. " Thanx nana papa Nelson " Bendicion padrinodrina " Love to my sister christy and my brother george and my nephews and nieces " C4-100, " KABOOM " MPH " " Love to Tom-ee " 3000 is great! " " garnet red " Le Sabre " Sunday Bloody Sunday(U2) " Are those cookies? " Dominican Republic or bust! " Darkness " Ebony " Black " Thanx for your support: Aimer, IsabeL & my one and only princess; Jessica "Wuz Up Hector!! " Thrasynactius RULES!!! " The symbol for Tungsten W" " When a man finds a true friend , he finds a treasure " - Leviticus (thanx for the cool quote Jerry) " Peace out to Manny Menendez( my best man), Ovi,Cesar ,Re nato , Danny ,Robert , Marcos ,Andy,Gabby, Luis , Mike ,&Frank " llove New York " (600) :0)
Achievements: Synonym CHAMPION - lOth Grade.
Accomplishments: Key Club: 4 yrs. (Outstanding Member award 9th-12th); NHS: 10th-12th; SHS: 10th-12th (V.P in 11th); National Hispanic Scholar: 11th; Forensics: 10th; Aikido Club: 11th.
\S enior Quo te: " I keep my Gfe we onfered: so I can 6e outrageous in my riv ate t fio1J91its." - C. Bars otti, USA TOD A Y
(( Some are 6om to tfte. endTess nigfit" - Jim
Monison - End of the Night
21j 79; Belen 6, 7, 8
9, 10, 11, 12; Swimming 6-10; Malta Youth Corps President 11-12.
Metro rail run all night* Never gonna let you gooooo!*Hey little monkey* full Parking Mario*DepressionDepression*Ov ibadoli*Ovizandulis tree*F,Cien.Rupert,Hamster formerly known as Prince. Blarney, Maxi*FF4*Amc*Man does thisdo or open*Another Retreat*Bjork*Super discount theater*Haircut time*KreeKree KreeKree*Narcolepsy*EVIT A *New Orleans*Toys R Us closes at 9:30!*Dwight Mcdwight*Donna's nosejobs*Death song*The A team*Showgirls*Oh Clair e!*DunDunDunanDun Dun*Oh Lord*Oh Punk*PinKai Unghhh!*Yeah I can play drums*Because of you I got in a fight with my husband*Sesame Street*Pizzicato 5*Where are my keys DAVID*You Stop!*Mannys Iandminds*Manny an d Annie sitting in atree bickering bickering and bi-cke-ring*Rene's hair*pool is cool*Anima rhymes with Sasperila*Oh Frank good report*Literal Boy*Joaquin's Baston*Tumble weed*Cat scream*Milkmaids*Miami eye contact*Its like, Igotta represent the hip hop community Riiight*llO$ *Flute*Sulex*Yesh*Pene*Sanfrancisco Milk*Goonies*80's c amera Angles*Dirty Dancing*Skate or die*l985*Burgertime*Balloon Fight*Vanilla lce*Cyndi Lauper*l80*www.everyt hing ontheplanet.com*Gangsta Rap and da hippest hoppest tlava in the house*AIIysa Milano*l've got to hold this !au ghter*stars with big guitars*call Hamster*! pity the fool!*Good Morning
BELEN 7-l2; Swimming 7-9th.
take witli me tfie menwries, to 6ri119 6acR. suns liine after tfie rain, 6ut it' s so liard to say gooc£6y e to yesterday.
MifianJ Ga6rie( Arsenio
Vestib ule Rambo Get-O h-Pascal?!?! Anyb od y want some cheeseburgers? That's what I look like in th e li La sou th wes era is in the house #43 I've got five on everything, m a n ! Would y o u do it for a mill dollars? Bucka c hickawaoo The Lahgoose "the mystery candidate" Lines in skit='Y a v o y, Ya voy ' Do you wanna ride intha frontseat of my aerostar? Ain :t n o thang but a ch icken wing It's sprite and coca-c It' s good for you Hey, a purple tyranasaurus is eati ng my food That's not a palm tree, that's an antem 1'11 give you a hundred bu cks if you can catch me Where ' d you go? You blend right in graduatin! '9 1, ' 97 4-Ru nner, coinciden ce , I t hink not Gators National Champs 52-20 Disco Dan ci n ' collaborat =don't worry he ' s just getting a Uh wo rds Hooked on ebonies wo r k ed for m e Hello, I am the Egypt Magician Do you have any sleepin g tours? Alex's run in with copS=I' m only a kid. I'm not myself right n please leave a message afte r the beep surprise=! guess you found out it wasn ' t in my pocket inspiring we -"We should hav e taken Drama." HEY, I ALWAYS TELL THE TRUTH, s o metimes Jose's answer to everytt -Shut up you poser. Tom Cruise wannabe Pigeon call Forever, for life, for now I'd like to give a spe tha nks to all those pe o ple that have made iny voyage through high school what it was I'd name you all, but dot-dots are only so long Unnnhhh!!
May
Born
27, 1_979 in Miami, FL; 7 years in Belen; in 9th, gold medal in English , silver in Spanish; in llth, gold medal in Economics; National Junior Honor Society 7-9 ; Key Club 9 -l2; National Honor Society l0-l2; Spanish Honor Society l0-l2; Debate l2; Varsity Track and Field ll, l2; Class Treasurer l2.
Miranda) Omar F
Hello Do you k now what today ts Alexander? Jeopardy Malibu Grand Prix: last day of 7th Grade Negative one techn ique And I was told that it was the 10:30 bell Mr. Williams? Oh, the new Forens ics coach Brents Cafe !And why did you call me a Let's take some cokes to Tampa Stop having fun I love you, Jennifer Wh ere ' s the bucket lOth Grade: Can't we all just get along? Counting Raffle Ticket Money is Fun Madame Ca nnoli is Dead I'm out to lunch! Que Que? What is the capital of Cameroo ? Ms. Jimenez, could I please see you for a moment? Ralf, you musn't interrupt the presentations Honestly, what a way to treat an old woman! Who ' s afraid of Virginia Woolf? I am Gourmet Gorging with Jose Marco Ciocca con el carro Frank Sinatra and Peer Ministry leader of men Yo I'm going to put it in mi>' dot dots
Hi Naw, he's a good guy Spain ' 94 Europe ' 95 Arkansas ' 96 Close Up '97 Oh ye s, I really want to take A.P. Physics Femi the Frog I need to tutor Ernesto Give me your money and scram Thanks Oscar for th e math homework 100 in Health The Crestian Classics There's nothing m ore cruel than this! I'll never forgive It The wanderer The Z Summer Lord, Forgive us and Our Nation Let's go wake up your spon or Thank you Josefina for the 5 years of Music Ministry There's something wrong with your logic I'm Nobody: We know Omar! Good Fences make Good Neighbors: Thank you Mrs. He andez and it was not my position to question the 10:30 bell Thank you Ms. Miyar, Mr. Zoller, Ms. Gil man, Mr. Alexander, Ms. Casero, Ms. Hernandez, Mr. Ledes m a, Ms. Leon, Ms. Busquet Mr. Collins, Fr. Cartaya , and Fr. Marcelino for your great unforgetfulness Thank you Mom, Dad, Valerie, Bernd, Andre, Katrina, Mama Abuelo y Abuela, and especi ally Madrina (Libby)! Thank you J ennifer, my sweetheart I truly enjoyed my mom ents here God Bless Bele erever!-- -
(/We sfta[[ fincC peace. We sfta[[
lie angers. We sfta[[ see tlie sky sparIUing witfi cfiamornfs." - Anton Clie/Wv
7 years. at Belen, Class _of 97; Student Council VP, (8th), President (9th, lOth, 11th); Big Brother Chairman (12th); Forensics Team, President (lOth); Dalmatian, Our Country s Good; The Bookshop; International Thespian Society; The Sandbox, The Compleat Wks ofWIIm Shkspr, The Interview; National Honor Soc!ety; Spanish Honor Society; Music Ministry (5 yrs); Geography Bee Team (5 yrs); Astronomy Club (9th-10th); ALPHA Clubs (Drama Chairperson 11th, President 12th); Key Club (9-12); College of the Holy Cross Book Award; Spain '94; Europe '95; Arkansas '96; Close Up '97 And many other countless things not worth mentioning now!
lie.ar
r r • • • requercfe que ninguno piercfe otm iv ilia que [a que viv e aFtora ni vive otm que [a que piercfe. " - J.L.B 1953
Moncliofi, MatmeC Ezequie(
Manny or some Moncholi derivative. I like my hair long! Infinity & Jelly Doughnuts. The magically appearing r o oster, el coronel, La mala hora & Gen. Buendta. am I the Walrus? El machete. Mike, Chromatic Aberration! A If the Hial eah businessman, Club P& my photographic brain. Golden Boy, no more Sweeny Todd Ruinas circulares, Marcos where's that Fenix essay! I don't be l ieve in time Take this sword brother, may it serve you well Hello Arb o r & Arturito, Kline, happy surgery Hey Snuffs, its 10:50. Dr. Wittenbocker rides again Ralph ' s Rap & Borges , Borges, Borges. Charlie ' s asleep & AguiiO vanished The scribbling of a lunatic contain more knowledge than all the world's intellectual circle s 3D Beatles in a flaming pie. Fontified Art ALPHA, Catz, Stinky take care of the Darkroom when I'm gone DOna Trap ito & Bald Eagle go to Spain. Miss KatjKatrina & Elevyn Eric, wh ere 's Casiopia? The Red Planet, Barros ' Winter Star Party. Cartaya & 34 Jesuit craters There's nothing like m a d-cr azy physics, hey Dancl'n Danny D.? Accident-prone Victor draws X-wings. Signs up, Oscar, don't dehydrate o n us and put Simba down, he's not an acrobat If you are to ever get lost, the blind man shall lead you t hro u g h the maze Big AI, let's play B-ball. Oye , where's Luis? Ch a r lie , grow up. My writing 's not dark, its mystic. L ennonMcCartney. No Omar. Michael Edward Aguilo, how did you end up in my house? Sander, vete pa tu cuarto ! Hey, Medina Yo. "Y Paez acaba de ven i r de Cuba." Pinturas por Blanc. Yo no soy ningun elefante sin trompa. Bye Papa & Gigi. que nos encontraremos de nu e vo. Mom, Dad, Trini, don't worry , I'm coming back. (Blacko ut )
Dave*james*chino*l28*gaby's brother*do you play soccer too?*no,i'm not cuban!*hey,christian,i hear you but i can't see you*squarej connerjmclash time*wamps nation*Manny, where's yer board?*skate or die*lisa,have you called yer brother?*pearljam '96*rene, i swear this song is kinda fast*wamps?*20j20 vision*one likes to believe in the freedom of music *the keys wjdanny h*l940*rene,what iz this?*if you can't hack the mosh pit,stand in the back*simpsonsjanamaniacsjseinfeld*unity, as one stand together*the pigeon-rat*dave!dave m!what's up* Joe,she's mad!*brandon, sorry didn't plan it,hope we're cool*melody, sorry,you were out of town*l2:28* Y&T's*uncle sam's*smashing pumpkins'96*albert,tellnow who you think I am*why go back to the island if yer already in america,the best country on earth?*hey!*why go home?*buck shots*mom,going to brandon's*danny,one day I was(snore)and op.ivy(wakens)*sebs, what happened toyer arm,Gerry's farm?*eddie and billy*but the badge it, it just looked so real*weezer'96*eric k. there will always be those ranked above you, respect them*smiley heads*and if I don't know who to love I love them all if I don't know who to trust I trust them all*it wasn't a yawn*thanks to everyone I knew and know and those I knew but wish I hadn't known*thank you's(no particular order)rene,danny, wampy,melody,erin, brandon,eric k, danny h,joejohn, jc,paco,ana m,natalie,music(it saved my life)*speciai shout out goes to my lady lisa who has helped me in everything,to my parents who did the same since I was bom,to my brothers and ines and leo*chuck thanx for listening to everything I said and for the advise*"i swear I saw her raise her hand and wave GOODBYE!"
28,
Born Dec.
1978, Miami, FL 3 !Years at Belen Environmental Club lOth Varsity Volleyball lOth
Muiioz, German Danie(
"A man's got to know liis [imitations"
-Dirty Hany 1983
6 grade basketball (6); Junior Varsity Football (8,9) MVP Offense (9); Varsity Football (10,12).
PagnussatJ Christian
5o, what do you call yourself, eh, como se llama (Frank) it's over oye consorte! first goes to the Bele rew: and the rest to my other boyz: Jose, Ariel, Jose R., Raul, Javi, frank and that Arab kid monday nitro ollywood Sea Doo SPX ..• Civic DX to my friends: Waif. Jenny, Josh, Mario, Monica and everybody else o Carlo, Noni and David: I love you thanks for being two of my best friends Seminoles #1 Ma y Pa, los ulero muchisimo Jony, I am a better player than you stop bothering me Rafic, I don't want a system 15" , 'ckers new car Herndon: wat'upl 5601 Collins Ave Liz: you've been a great friend, love ya to aura and family, I hope all goes well Noni a mi familia, los quiero my bird Ia cosa nostra Hey enny, can I drive your Mustang? Waif, look out for the mailbox no more get togethers at my house cash les everything around me Uruguay , Cuba , Puerto Rico and ltalia the trip to Kew West distric hampions!!! hindu soy Iatino Julio will get his Mustang Cobra am I bothering you Hed? Greg, yo illed Yvette! Robbie, no one will steal your Polaris futbol the sandlot Tony Montana Hey Rafic, me riel and Jose will hook you up uh, David, uh, uh Jose, l et me see the pictures Raul, no more gas stations don't worry Javi we'll play los qui ero, laters
"T fie worfrf is yours." from tfie movie '' SCARFACE/'
{(Not everything tfia.t counts can 6e countecC aruf not everything that can 6e counted counts." - Affiert Einstein
Honor Roll- 6-12th, Marine Biology club- 6th, National Junior Honor Society- 7-9th, National Honor Society - 10-12th, Spanish Honor Society- 10-12th, Key Club- 9-12th, Single Service Chairman- 12th, Hospital Volunteer - 9th , JETS team - 11, 12th, PMIA - 11th.
Patiiio, Christopher
Pachichi Pacha Chichi etc Keys wj Ruiloba Rey's Andy, wuz up with the hit list Lou-r, my cuz X-mas shopping the Circle Casa Chacho Zoltar the Ville Hotel Ren Freaky D dime algo Andy, slow down!!! Pensacola Caro, are we in a fight Today? AMF-whatever bro MeL wuz up dog! Biggest Flirt ever Jess, thanks for everything-luv u Rick, Winki Cataract Senior Skit Horror Night Disney wjLya JrProm-2 ' s better than 1 JrJoumey Pearl Jam Wu Tang Chillin w j a Gerber shot out to da 120's Diesel&:. AI Xmas eve at Chachos new years at Chori's What happened last night? BubbleBBiowout Gator Growl ' 95 ' 96 G'ville U-tum Rollin in the VW the theater Simons shaded Spain ' 95 NY '94 Trip at 3 am (ZED) To all the girls- ClaudC-Iuvuall Math Shot out to the crew- Bez, Pep, Gravy, Cruz , Chacho, Pelo , DieseL Chori, Leo, Mi Yenny, Viv, MarL Myle, Barka, MeL Lexington (luvuall) Ren &:. 0 - My big bros forever Ruiloba-U Tican, I miss you Class of ' 97 - Thanks and good luck Mom, Dad, Mike, Ceci, and family - love you all and thanks G'ville - finally I'm here to stay Laters
({ Tomorrow 's jl.l5t anotfier aay, am:( cfon't 6e[ieve in time" - Hootie a BCow_fisfi
Baseball- (9) (10); Coaches award (10).
ife Ftas no pfea.sure no6[er tfian tfiat o · ruf.sfiip, tfie vafue of wfiicfi is [i ouru:f fieaftfi: seraom known untiL it 6
PatiiioJ Luis A.
Luis, Lucho, Lu P., Lu Pat Luuu Fresh. yr.- 3 Musketeers *Wh e re 's Rob C. *llove Riviera *Kiwi Lemon *Soph. y r - Que Fina! *Summers wjCristal & Richi & Leo*Ari it was cool, thanx *TCBY incident*Bennigans - please ge water*Jr. yr. - Chillin' in the blackbug*4-N-6 at Crestian wj the Dominican-Bent almost*Ciose-Up '95-Eddie you eek(Greeks) "' l almost gave the old guy a heart attack"' AII aboard t he K-Train *Eddie come pick me up*Landrove rK:andlebox *Biack & Yellow smugs*Yari you're gonna make me crash, JjK-You're the best*Jr Prom at Pet z ' s *Memorial Day at Pat's*lvan thanx for passing me*Sr. yr.- Key Biscayne*We ' re the Riders on the Stonn*Chri s .=Chubacca?*Wawy- " Nah, nah, nah chill. "* Rain can't hurt me*Pea rl Jam-Espantoso*Domino at Javi's*Mi paisan arco B. *PMIA crew*Luis' Senior Skit"' Danny A. Oops! *Lights Up Leo! *Rob do thejig*Hot, caliente*Homecoming a Pete Laz ' s again wjGiselle *Manny, AL & Sebi-one sould, 3 bodies*Chris P.'s already in UF*Ralfi-exagerado Luau *Manny ' s Manor*Sorry Daddy (Pedro )* Pat how ' s Boyton?*X-mas Formal at the Lake*To the Jaguar*Fa Andy*Thanx for help wjpage, Caro*Ciass of ' 97 is money*" I may live in my own little world, but at least out ther everybody knows me" *K-T we had some good times *Eddie we were too proud *Tommy good luck at Loyola *Giselle , hy are you so far away, I need help and you ' re way across the sea*l love you and I hope our paths cross again *Wherever you go, you ' ll always be special to me *Hang in there Nick, You ' ll hate it then love it*Dr. Anna Maria thanx 4-everything*Mom & Dad thanx, you guys have been great*Hey everybody, don't worry about me, UF is just a pit stop*l love you guys, sorry if you didn ' t get mentioned *!' II miss you beige halls & orange doors*lt ' s been grand , but it's time to go, Good-bye. {Exit stage right)
Graduated Class of 97* J.V. Football-9, lOth grade* J.V. Soccer-9, lOth grade* Varsity Track and Field-10, 11th grade; District Champs* Varsity Football-11, 12th grade, 2nd time to playoffs* Varsity Soccer-11, 12th grade, 1st time playoffs, and DISTRICT CHAMPS.
PeCCeya, Nicofas A
there are no nwre tonwrrows, onLy 6Cissei tocfays " - Bi[y Cor9an
years at Belen, JV Football
/ 10; Varsity Wrestling-
Varsity Track and Field-
Key Club - 10/ 11/12; Amnesty International- 10/11/ 12; Beta Club - 10/ 11; National Honor Society- 12;
Club - 12; Astronomy Club - 12; Senior Skit- 12.
PeiiarredOndit, Arturo
Class of '97
7 years at Belen; J.V. Football9-l0; Varsity Footballll; J.H.S. 7-9; N.H.S. l0-l2; Spanish Honor Society l0-l2; Key Club 9-l2; Peer Ministry ll; Honor Roll 7-l2; Who ' s Who Among American High School Students lO-ll.
wove makes the worCd 90 arowuf and witftout Cove the worCd is DEAD -Autftor Unknown
Perez, Michae(
Mikejmike p.fcole tricklejdamnation/57 chevy/look at what you made me do/nick dip dip/danny's nick's, and nolo 's hangfpero porquejserge=ergej$2.50/nick, I don't even want to know bombitas/hairy black/checker chickfni ck at checkersfhootersfstudying at danny's/1988 300zx and 1997 4runner limitedjmichy Jets play go fish/angie yo u pinky swore not to teJijJOJOfangie, pllar,erln,Hsa,becky,pepe,Jepeu,abu,iago/ping pong,pooJ,baseball.bask.etbaJ l,golfbowling,track,tennls,alr·lt-outjmichy we're down;emperador supennarketjmanzanmerosfHACK. THE PLANET /I'm invisiblejscream and HackersjCristi RIP/vinquest champions '97/medusa/truck driver fred/ace ventura's twin brother is fighting In a warehousefllove yearbook/Jojo raging on nataUejuJtrazonejdisco Hghtfthe parotjnascarjda nny and evaj$20 for license platesjnick the aJbinojoh no toes/It's cold,get offjhey baby, come to javijdan you kllle d it;denny's at the beachjnoJo we mised the sun risejto all my family and friends, thanx 4 your support;love U mom ,dad,and sis
born 2/5/79; Belen 7-l2; Yearbook; astronomy l2; track and field l2.
QuiitonesJ Carfos
lS ucr.eec(ing is wlien preparedness meets opport:uni1y is tliere a[[ tlie time.arC Nigfitingafe
BLUES RAVELER
ll/26/97 in Hialeah, Florida; Belen 9-l2th; Key Club ll-l2; Boy Scouts of American 6th-l2th; Swimming lOth Grade.
E M C. - pool &. JulietjSERG &. jorge, caro, ale, - Eddies , RalfL Javi,
4j25j79; Belen- 7th-12th Grade; J.V. & Varsity Basketball9-l2; Captain; Coaches Award (10); Volleyballll-12; Key Club 9-12, Active Member, Public Relations Chairman; Nationaltlonors Society 10-12, Secretary; Spanish Honors Society 10-12; Student Council (11); Respect Life Club 10-11; Alpha (11); Big Brother (12); Close Up (11); Boston College Book Award.
EverytFti119 lias dm119eiC a6so[utelj tfii119' s cfia119ed- E. Vedder
is fata[ to enter any war without tlie iw ill to w in it.
-Dougfas MacArthur
Rice, CarCos A
Carlos Sebs sebby s hannahna ugh chinua Hey Tom, "you're annoying me "" No, you're annoying me " Jeep CJ-7 BMW what's wrong with you? The Chase The Saab Ford-150 Dave ' s house = Merry X-mas! LIGHTS UP! Hey Dave, what happened to your leg, Gerry's Farm?
CHILANGOS Perro Bravo 20/20 Tahiti Beach Lollapalooza '96 . A re you saying this sucker' s n uclear? Hey AI, what's with your arms? Me Resbala Canes V. Noles '96 me+tom+danny Tom =money, rodeo=ghetto US-1 A m oco Junior Black & Tan TO TRAINS- Danny, where are my jeans Read it: - I ruined it! Da n ny, are you going tonight? 46'er Buddy Mortimer Rice!- " Si Dimelo" you're booted Do you h a ve a problem, no I hope so GERMAN! Jorge-"Shebby, oh shebby, a shpider!" Jackaroo·s I'm all Ranci d ed out Joker smile purple lights Warm "moth erl y" embrace at Bahama ' s Manny ="The move" Medicina Gid on the beach bike me and Danny at avocado elementary wjMrs. Pakatraka Bro's Manny. Tom, Albert, Bobby, Eddie, Nico, Dave, German, Guill ermo, Eusebio, Joaquin-Keep it real-stay gold its been a hoot-1 had fun-next time I'll type my own-Yahoo!
Miami, Fl - 5 years at Belen; United States Cycling Federation, Defending National Champion- 8, 9, 10, 11 , No
Ranked 17 - under Cyclist in the U.S. since 1992.
Rico, Ro6ert F.
7 years in Belen; S.A.M.E. club 9-11; Yearbook 11-12, Photo Editor 12; C.E.L.A.C. 12.
Q[c( Japanese prover6 say, Bin£ neve, mak.e nest in 6are tree. -]ames Bond (Sean Connery)
(( strong in wilL to strive, to seek-, to firu:C ancf not to yiel!f. '' - From Ulysses, 6y AlfrecC, Lorcf T ennyson
consorte, que vola Yo chilling at the Grove, I
National Honor Society 9-12; President 12; Spanish Honor Society 10-12; President 11; Key Club 9-12; Outstanding Member 9; Astronomy Club 6-12; President 8-11; Varsity Swimming 9-11; Letterman; Brown University Book Award 12; National Science Merit Award 10; National Hispanic Merit Semifinalist 12
Rodriguez, Andres Carfos
" D " Granada Circle Buy a new hat Ki erkagaard Are you going t o sl eep over Manny' s? Pu u umpki in Wamps Nation . EEE Vision at Trios were going to surf Dec 8 - Weezer co me pick me up after wo rk th e "G" ride Dirty Monkey fisher Island Tombola Dan ce ' 94 New Orleans Gentlemen! The Keys Garcia Procrastination P-funks Ew ok Disney 238 West Cabdriver Chamu Doop Doo p Old Skool Belen Boys Quike Kinko's GQ Wh ere is this party? Me et me after 12 Keep it underground The Avenger Maundy! Can I study at your house Wamps? Bum Pu m Gainsvill e Malik Slacker Oger Track Pio Hey! Volvinator Pool fly T Gordo The Phunk Dope Style I'm out of money Quinceniera Cruise The Edge Where did all the se p eople come from I love you Whatever Outtahand fast food 7 years the Roots The Biltmore urricane To my best friends - Danny H., Danny A., Rene, Eric, Cristy G., Cristy R., Mandy, Cira, Javi E., ampy, Pio, Mariela, and To my Family - Mom, Dad, Alex, Aileen, Abuela Aida, Abuela Carmita, Raisa , Raisita, Cristy, Nina, Elena, Abuelo, and the rest of my family- I Love You All and thanks for being there thanks Belen, Its been fun Peace See Ya in FSU
" It ma.kes more sense to (ive in tlie present tense. " - Eddie V ecfder
Born 1/31/79, Miami Fl.; 7 years at Belen; Varsity Track and Field - (9-11); Varsity Track Letterman - (11); Junior l1igh Tennis- (8); Key Club- (9-12); Big Brother Program - (12) ; Class Secretary (12); Class Treasurer(9,10); Marine Biology Club- (6); Close Up '95- (11).
rrTickie us c£o we not [a1.19/ii pri& us
c£o we not 6Ceeai wrong us s/ia[ we not evenge!" William Sliak.espeare
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Rahway, NJ- Jan. 31, 1979, Student Council- 8-10, Beta Club VP- 12, Key Club- 9-12, K ey Club Staff- 12, Naranja Project Chairman- 12,
Raul paul freek marines .•• car accide'lt for a rose party at r Jose (pepe) pepsi the dominca ounder (get a hair cut) Manteca , • mantequia, Alex ••• we've been through alot North Carolina initiation .•. Mrs. S. I'm going to jump •.. Marl I'm not crazy no more,runnig Coches i'm sorry, but heyH Erik-ethi • hJopia Ivan - I'm smart£r than you Powerade Is the best drink. Erik barbi will love you some day. naaaa! unior year - summer. spain, what an experience ••• Jesi-stamge hey barq what??ll shoop hooooop!!! Oscar-Fufi+eh inlta or may-be browny. Oscar don't eat to many brownies at the browny factory acoby you fish go siwm t)elen-belde n under the boardwalk just kidding graduation party SOM COLLEGE PLEASE ACC EPT M f:dith+bui s-cooki e fedil - I love you babies!! good look coach. Mr. Montalv ere going to the m o vie s. sorry for not getting you a picture junior prom .•. melisa yeaaaahn track=girls ianette-lysette s t o p callin g m e robert. Bahamas Frankie your getting big ..• Frankie+Ana sitting in a tree I feel dead in sid e Mi ke rna Bad!! gorge beat down tha t 's all foOd
Ours is not to ques tio n w liy, Ours is not to 9ive rep!J, Ours is 6ut to cfo am! cfie - A lfrecC, Lo rcf T enny son, am! me
Santa-Cruz) I van
Ivan the Terrible Ivanhoe Ike Yogurt Bookworm the Prez hey Conde, what'd Barq say? ever heard of Asia? Talandmen Spain is Iva n dead yet? good or well; who cares? Raul's Chonkos Alex, is Raul OK? we only crossed the bridge once a mere flesh wound C'mon guys , I can be crazy too Close Up wjGus, do you know where Drain Bamage that rocks Ivan and Omar' s excellent adventure yes, a Rubik's Cube Marco & Peter, wan t a tissue? Mira Ia cara de Albert! Class of ' 97, best ever I like !Your classss Psych class, he knows Armando , Erik, Ferny & Javi: NAACP Gondore, Alice & Rob: You and I Stood! Eric & Erik, mls hermanos Yea Boricua, I can pick you up I sort of drive Redlands boy; Ralf: ten cuidado con el gordo! hey Sober, wanna play Bolo? oh ye a h, the Ke y Convention memories AgN04 , what a waste Aikido? Here, let me show you Socce r w j Do ma , the Phat Fullback; l,2,3 ,Cuba! Districts Champions '97; Rage, Rage CC: you enjoy running?! Tab by, Dave, Alex , Lola, Benji; R.I.P Track? Hal Keys Crew: Yoyo, Kiki, Juanqi, Pach Computer B oy : Al ways Ap ple! T he Power to Be Your Best Mike Stackpole fan club Battletech Lupi & PreCalc: we ca me , we sa w , we conque re d w elL in a way, yes
Eddie: hey big J . Movie Marathons l, 2,&3 & Monty Pyth on ; Bri tis h Co medy ru les Sha wn, Camacho, my jacket Thank s Mami, Papi, Abuelonga, Abuelo, & Abuelita Oh, yeah, and Eri c t oo Thanks Belen ; I am loathe to cease but I'm glad it's o v er UM, here I come
many faces m o ut of my life ; So me will last , some will j ust be now and the n Li fe is a series of he ll os and go odbyes , o n th e break , it's t ime for goodbye
Belen 6-12; Cross Country 8 -12, All-Dade Honorable Mention; Track and Field 7-10 ; Soccer, 9-12 ; Key Club 9-l2 ; Vice President 11, President 12; National Honor Society, 10-l2; Spanish Honor Society, 9 -l2; Nation Merit Semifinalist, National Hispanic Scholar, Harvard Book Award
IA CC tfie wor[d" is a. stage, a.rn:f tfie men a.rn:f women in it merel); pfayers" -
As You Like It"
Sardiiia, Gustavo
"The pen may 6e miglitier tlian the 6ut my swore£ is Conger tlian ty our pen is."
SeCem, Joseph
Joe Selemj#60fThe FreakjAranajJoe Buy'm&SelemjMe a selloutjonly 2 62&52/Mike=The Real Freak/Welcome 2 the Land of the HeartlessjRef I didn't spit in his facejRaging Bull SelemjCiass of 97/8-4/Little PattyjTony B stoP, watching/Pena es el bicho/ Aguirre your going 2 eat that/Lucky JoejEI Gran Papi Chulojlluv U CarolijLanda what R we doing herejOyejParty at Pedri Lazs housejThe Adventures of Andyys NickjPedri Lazs MysteryjEI Chivo#7jWawy AsquerocidadjPace, Gulliver Scholarships Anyone? Pace&GulliverjCch Stus final playjGulliver Ha!jBeastmaster Bear watchoutjHunter Is coming/Landa ese tiene el Papo Cool ComplexjVarsity Football 96=Best Ever/Mission 96jCaroli always 12:3&82:3/Landa is scaryjScary Larry/Gonzo are U married?jHey Aguirre Pt. St. LuciejVig remember pigeonjFootball Camp in GeorgiajNoelle I hooked U up with VigojNoelle=awesome friend/ Alex mi hermanito your the best, te quiero & good luckjPat=SeemsjTake me to Boyton Beach pleasejGalileo conjLanda 6! grade field dayjLianettejLaurenjStudying 4 final=Que pujojl spit the pill outjDave what bone did U breakjT original Freak Llamasj$20 bucs man!jNick & Ana FloresjSetting up for Vigo & Noelle at the beach/All Dad SelemjOiine=The NatsjTo all my coaches thanx 4 everything/Smiley=Big BrotherjThe PoetjChaminade think they're goodjStar of David lljMustache Gang II/Alicia&GiuiiO=Nice People/The Garcia Tunon ClanjBelen thanks all these yrs.j4 anyone I left out- Thanks 4 Great Times/Alex, Sarah, Marie, Grima, Familia thanks & Luv AlljPapi Mami thanks 4 everything couldn't of done it without U, I Love UjGoodbye Everybody.
(II reaLize today tfiat no t fiing is nwr cfistaste_fu[ to a. 111.Lln tlian to take t a.tfi tfiat Ce.aas to fiimself' ' -Her1'1Uln esse
So6eron, Jose R
White ZOmbie/Filter concert Marylin Manson concert The Man that You Fear I'm not a freak it's all a show .•. no I'm not a player Alfredo's Gym- everyone maxes 300 lbs pulling a Sergio .•. Orly's chair Frank's pretty disturbed Frank I'm down to my last $200 for the weekend Frank's New Year resolution Pink Floyd's In the Flesh II When I went to school in Olympia ..• share the wealth if she were my wife, I'd be a alrus you can always use it as an anchor ·I met Lars Ulrich at the Grove (Hoffa) All-fire engaged •.. Bahamas trip skiing in Colorado hey, that guy looks like T om Cruise you're following a fak European trip fat Chinese guy in Italy $25 ice cream cone double m ace You all know who you are. he real thanks go to: Great thanks to my family and most importantly - God, without which none of this could have been possible. You've all been great!
The effects of this senior can be further enhanced by listening to the following:
Anthrax ' s " lntro to Reality"
Harry Nelson ' s " Everybody ' s Talkin '"
"All I meant by this was that the hero is condemned because he doesn ' t play the game. In this sense, he is a stranger to the society on whose outskirts he wanders, living his own private, lonely, sensual life."
- Albert Camus
Silver Medal (World History)- 9; Chess Club member - 10; BETA Club member -10-12; Swim Team member -10·11; CLC member 11-12; Key Club member 11-12; Honor Roll11-12
Socorro) Alfredo
If big head Wamps Nation who is this Pat impersonator?, we want the old Pat back me and D Flippers, soccer, and a slurpee we recorded our conversations on the way to UM Big Head Todd and th onsters weekends at Pepe's house Paula and Danny "I want candy" fish and the hunnies June t Tres Monitos "Give me a Chaco Taco" Marco who's that ugly kid and since when is he on the team? ..• anilovich studying for finals at Danny H.'s house Eddie Carreno don't call Edd i e pink face, he gets ang me and Danny D led Dade County in fouls way to go Raul, good job Jose the Supergoalie Ivan. use our left foot Hutch, where are my tapes? Sebs how's the pet sup ermarket? Wamps skurfing o a reo's boat in 40 degree weather Wampy is the lea der of Wamps Nation Wampy, I'll drive you, but we hav o pick up Claudia first Christmas sh opp ing me and Mike singing Hunger Strike JETS and the twidge ncident watc hing T V. at Dave's hous e a fter fi nals Clo se Up 97 Pedro the scartless. glovel ess wonder here's Pat? He 's at Boyton? WILF parachute Lollapallooza Pearl J am Pumpkins s leepin at Christi an ' s house the Edge me an d Pat Jose, I'm going to put that Ferre s ign o n your front yard lub Seville Mac cut your knive s Pedro Laza rill o District Champs! Bea, my ma rriage c ouns elor enee you never call me an ymo re L ucho=pumpkin h ead Alfredo Valdes , Jr. - now you can breath, I paint ed ills Juan. sorry I could n't put you in my collage Ma mi. Papi, Juan, Jeanette , and Claudia - thank you fo r our support and all that yo u 've done for me I love you all Peace out to all t he brothers out there in Wamps a tion It's been real!
" Don't overwofdije' s sma[( joy s wli· !5 earcliif19 for 6ig ones. "
10-15-78; Miami, Fl.; 7 years at Belen; Student Council 5-9 ; Junior National Honor Society 7-9; Varsity Track 9; Key Club 912 ; Varsity Soccer 9-12; Senior National Beta Club
Suarez, Antonio J
((Work Harcf or Go Home" - N. Bo[etieri
1/30/79; Miami, Florida; 7 Years at Belen; Varsity Golf (11-12); Varsity Tennis (10); Key Club (9-10); Treasurer (911); Big Brother Program
TorraJ Afexatufer Joseph
iiiiiiii is everybody in? The ceremony is about to begin Que ta pasa, calabaza? me aburro . , . y yo Que, QUE? what is the capital of Camaroon? February 24, 1996 A. L.A. new B-Day I'll give you a dollar if you ow this one AguiiOOO YOU MADE ME DEFO RMED!!!! Mumi Ayyyyyy, Robbieeeee Cye, 'buela como 'sta chica? Cause I' m the wanderer Leo J Robbie a n d me in Fayetteville Anyone up for movies and inner? Tommy and Luis a re Bent by Martin She rma n Heii5Julie the middle classes and I turned my smile to the next one Tampa ' 96 (both times) Angie 's ch icken Buddy Freddy' s anytime Let's ride los ritos WHERE'S THE BUC KET?!? What a ta d o to die today Yoki's rush L and Z Trust no one, d eny everything Troupe 4666 (and its missing lin k) l am the Lizard King, I can do anything And why did you call me The Respect Life State Conference The perfect m urd er? Pablo Guillen Speaking of m o ney Ms. Jimenez, RafaeL Ms. Casero, Fefita, Jerry, you ha ve cha nged my life Special thanks to Mr. Williams, for elping find wh at I lo ve in th e wo rld To O mar, Rob ert, Luis, Jose, Mano, A rturo, MichaeL a n d Ch a rlie thanx for aking me th e pers on I am Good bye to Teri, Jacki e, Alexandra, Mo n ica, Maylen, Manny and everyone else who has graced my life, nos venos To Mom, Papi, Los Abuelos, Sandy&:. Hugo , Louis, Tia, Willie, Antonieta y Hugo, he Bastiani ' s, the Alemanes, Padrino y Madrina, and my entire family : I love you with all my heart Act well your part, there all the h o nor lies.
not go gentfy into that good niglit, Rn:ge, Rn:ge £l9ainst tlie cfyi119 oj lie L ig lit! II -
North Miami Beach, FL. on March 27, 1979; 6 illustrious years at Belen; ALPHA 7-12; Forensics 9-12 National Qualifier with Playing with Fire 11; International Thespian Society
SHS
part in The Compleat Works ofWilm Shkspr (Abridged), Interview, The Sandbox, Los esc/avos del consumo, Splendor in the Grass, and many others, Proud member of the Class of '97. "Do
Dy[an Tliomas
Tur, F ernatufo
"Tfte weak ones are tft.ere to justify tft.e stro119" - MariCyn Manson
Chris Nathan. 4th, Derek Nathan 5th; Sean Thompson, 6th; Gus Oliviera. 7th; Ted Novar, 8th; David Van CliH, 9th
Varsity Tennis- (11, 12); Junior High Baseball- (8); V.P. of Respect Life Club- (10, 11, 12); Spanish Honor Society- (10, 11, 12); Key Club- (10, 11); Alpha Club- (10, 11); Marine Biology Club- (6); Silver Medal in Physical Education- (9); Silver Medal in Theology- (10).
UsatC!Jui, Afejandro R.
sod horrnigas cookie spoty bum goofy hat guaybas chain reaction errp errp argh! interesting box moosh are they germans 20 min. left? the test is today? i failed another one joey took all the donuts why does my elbow hurt? it takes a trusty mount to ride the open range: southwest que buena challenge its 15% off today Id's in the house de hwat scrambled eggs hurry! lets get out of here progress they live gumby and poki dont move nasiys Herack pok, wooly, bumpy, pica, gordon heritage family mamL papL ramon, that blue ghost, everyone in costa rica, ana, pili, george, elsie, abuelo, mamana, Huriberi, the other thousand that I don't have space for dec31 to all my teachers: thanks go spurs dallas villanova anne frank trinity once upon a time i had a sandwich wouldnt move i thought i was a notebook but as luck would have it i am alex i'll bring the hall to you the purse game go hamburger go! i'm bored
((I [ike cow, ofi! that stupil:[ ostrich" -C) McNasty
EricPckmeUpjJst2MoreMinjTheStertinwUMjBelen SwimjRobPiseDontMkeMeDo 10x500jRobltWasKirksBkgro undjToursOfMiamiWith Ericj EricYou FindYour OwnRidejChrisW atchout4TheTruckj IsAnetStiiGroundedjCatCayjCa rojCubajGreenMer cjDominoNghtjTheJunglejWhoGaveJayABe?1Ruben: MySister?jltsMiLifejJochi: I· mGo ing2 fin dAntherTutorjCaiiOscarjLoveMobilejDontBecomefrenzwithThmjJorgeandLuc asjAndyRoso:DukejfunniestKids: BertM1tnz,T .L.1. ,ManoChic,DanAj NicojSureUGoin 2GetACarjURACubanasojiHveSoManyConnetionsjDontDieOn MejJr.PromjTheBreckjlrel and93,Deeter(TheBiond)Niels,Nat.93jFrancoReneNestor:BiggestPiayersjGubeYouL ike hosePopsiclesHuh?jLechonAtAifDjRauiAndHisPaquetes; Andy: My PartnerjGetOut OfrownjM. V : Mi Prima; MartiniA ndGabe:?;sa rio: MyOidRoomatejZoojChichijVic: Dont TalkSoMuchj KpTheAfrojTitojRic: PassMeACigarjD on tScrea mAtMe!jThanx4ThefghtAtB CjMeche:ADondeEsteEILocojGraciajGraciela:LaChiquitajCarmen:MiTa taj T eQuiero; Joey:ThatsWhtlmTalkinAbout!jMami:IAireadyTookOutTheGarbageAndDidMyHmwkjlWon tLea velt4The LastMinjM omAndJesusjGrandPrixjLongSaiiTripsj Pat Thanx4EvthwFif iURCrazy1Abuela:SurvivorjBii iA ndBruj Au g GonzAb o : GreatM enjC oolestG irl: VDjMich u: HowlsAmb on digajYoureBrosAWimpjDontCryHoneyjH o wLongHas ltBin j J ig aj So nestajT helst4 MthsWereGood,ImSeriousj 1ThinkThatslt Hey,ThatsGoinglnMyDotDots j SpecialT h anx:2J esu s MamiRVSDa d,A A G Diaz , PatRob,AilMyTruefrenzU nwWhoUR/G oodLuck2AIIMyCompanions
!You Talkin to Me? Jo e Pesci
Swim Team 9th-12th, Captain 12th; National Honor Society 12th; Spanish Honor Society 10th-12th; Key Club 9th12th; Big Brother Program.
September 29,
1979- Hialeah, Fl.; 4 yrs. at Belen; Key Club - (9, 11-12); Spanish Honors Society- (10-12); Europe Trip- (Summer of 11th); National Senior Beta Club- (10-12); Honorable Mention- (10-11).
" To striv e, to seek., to find, and not to ie[c(. " - Lorcf AlfrecC Tennyson
(( Long after tlie roar of tlie crowd has u6sidecC your cfesire to succeed w · cany you tlirougli Gfe" - Vi om6ardi
• Be s t Defen se '96 I told you I wou l d get an INT 3 yds from my Andy , " Does it hurt?" Joe the hunter, Vigo the beast aster, Andy !ifa vetteart Clan The Mat Rats Freaknation=Joe & Mike JS Thursday , I broke the La Casona=Free Food Xmas Formal The Escuderos=6 Ped ro u l's parti es Bahama Market Georgia trip, free haircuts Okeechobee Port St. Lucie Andy & Joe got some I need a pigeon to shave or not All surgerieS=comeb ack Thanx for visiting Noelle can you type fideL I love yo aby Let the demons out J rs TPT, Cook, Jap, Serge, Cole pride) and the rest, Good Luck an d rip Gulliver's #55 Befo tackles in the season Hans , AugL Luis, Noelle, Abu of the fa mily
Varsity Football9 , 10, 11, 12; Honorable Mention (Football) 10; All -Dade 1st Team (Football) 11 , 12; Varsity Wrestling 9, 10, 11 , 12; Rookie of the Year (Wrestling) 9th ; District Champ (Wrestling) 11th; Regional Runner-up (Wrestling) 11th; Fifth in the State (Wrestling) 11th; Honorable Mention (Wrestling) 11th; Team MVP (Wrestling) 11th; Key Club 10, 11, 12; Key Club Staff 12th.
Villa,EI LOCO
ViCfasuso, ACejatufro
A-L-E-J-A-N-D-R-0 Surge! let's platoon it in great after-parties Pok,Sod,Wooly,Gordon JacksonS- #56,#51,#88,#32,#12 the elite:#7,#8,#22,#52,#60,#62 William Wallace is 7ft tall,#51 daily lunch routine(shhhh) cafeteria roundtable grupito viva Ia patria- remember Gonzalo! let's 'dew' this! We will not go quietly into the night; we will not perish without a fight;we will live on! Gulliver,Homecoming Game(20-14)they can't stop me! - OOPS Aaarg!(Homecoming Dance) great yearbk times hangin' out in coach's office 1st lick boodey rules Luau Party- honolulu make-over! gotta love them trackgirls Holidaylsle SwimsuitContest woohoo! kamikazi headclash!, shave cream war! 295 bench,4 75squat - enough said I'll give you the red light special I'm Hanz Did I go to practice yesterday? 'micro' economics- what a MASSACRE Mazda140mph rush!(major props) Don't mess with BIG brother KI & MK3 Champ! Javi's down 'Track' on these 4xl- #22,#21,#6,#10, ultimate frisbe reborn. STAR WARS palace18 group hmmm.hmmm.hmmm breaks at Vila's born on (date 1/97)- ain't good OOH, them S.Beach times it's average guy. hospital o cementerio?! my 'down' crew#10,#25#15#49 incredible troubled Seance- 2Pac's alive! LourdesProm- "don't 'mess' wj me" i hea-ya,i hea-ya Board Plan relajos Key West(38-16)coconut memories thanx coaches for everything prank-calls to #6,#21,#60,#8? Oye don't you know I'm LOCO!
"Tfi.ere is no Rnow[edge that is not power'' - anonyrrwus
6 YEARS AT BELEN; KEY CLUB; STUDENT COUNCIL; VARSITY SOCCER (9-12); YEARBOOK; VARSITY FOOTBALL (12).
Zurita, Ro6ert
ZU #17 808 da crew ,yo u know who u'r 4horsemen jorge grupito da posse v .soccer finally;district champs never forget n.y. , xique mike key la rg o wkend s bell nightly rituals b.k.afta school no more bowling at dapond november nite v.i.d.july 94,hia lea h n at da keys close-up llth with rooskies at'mall'withj even jorge didn't know afta levee quetzacoatl i' m "sleeping"over too much disney go to ft. lauderdale for what? bush grdns fish n bait ga m e 9th pla yer mode i had bout six fro m pinej ar,my bad dsrt n oasis john wok e her up paco got thin last ti m e at xm as tree park? be kind to anima ls richard mali bu she th ought i w as 24 ,so nipsdabiter like a piece o sicily don't knockit till u tryit i can ' t believe i lost her adress age is just a number carpemomentiu m experience pts i hit an off-duty cop it's no t m y car hope at w.p.beach triton country matte rs pez,what a weirdo i do not talk fas t pacsaker wken d stories denise n frog stories i ' m duncan macleod from da clan macleod you,steeeven! da g oatie analizing alice wonderland palooza 94 remember4ever38 usi momin rides d a crew 4ever thanx rik:it' s just like that,u know,it's just like that thanx dad figures;joe x,sr.vich, rik.font da mentor mom,grandma,rik love you 4ever and class of 9 7 ,best of luck and careful who you god b less,laters,whatever.
- 11Hope for tlie 6est expecting tfie worst'' -
7 j17 j79 Caracas, Venezuela; 7 yrs Belen; Soccer 6th, 9th-12th (Cpt. 11th, district champs 12th); V-ball 7th-8th, 12th; N.H.S. 6th-9th; Beta club 10th-12th (VP. lOth); Yrbk student life editor 11th (completion 96 book), co-editor in chief; Close-up 11th; Who's Who Among American H.S. Students lOth, llth.
VALEDICTORIAN SPEECH
Buenas Naches y gracias par venir a esta nuestra celebraci6n, par nuestro trabajo y par supuesto, su celebracio6n par su gran apoyo durante estos aflos. Antes de em pezar a despedirme en ingles queria darles una muy breve idea de lo que ha significa , do para mi estar en Belen durante los ul .. timos seis aflos y lo voy a hacer dicien.. doles tres frases. La primera es una frase que aprendi casi desde que naci, y una frase que en este contexto mas que ser un grito politico es un grito que dice que en esta escuela se me a aceptado par lo que soy, no se me ha obligado a convertirme en nada que fuera contra mis raices, mis principios, o mi cultura, sino que se me ha invitado a convertirme en lo mejor que pueda ser dentro de lo que soy y lo que tengo; una frase que dice "Viva Mexico!" La segunda frase, honestamente no Ia co.. nocia antes de llegar aqui, pero poco a poco se me fue presentando durante mi carrera en Belen, una frase que representa un pueblo que es indudablemente representado en Belen dia con dia y que he llegado no solo a admirar sino a querer mucho, esta es una frase que representa un viejo y ansiado sueflo que ahara tam.. bien es mio, una frase que grita par una ''Cuba libre.'' Finalmente mi tercera frase es una combinaci6n, y representa algunas de las casas mas importantes que he aprendido en Belen, no en los Iibras, sino en Ia gente que ven atras de mi, en mis padres y mis hermanos y en el ejemplo de esta comunidad; una frase que dice ''Viva Cristo Rey, viva Ia Madre de Dios, viva el otorgar sonrisas y el aprender de lagrimas,
viva el servir y viva todo aquel que tiene alma.''
Undoubtedly many are the things that you learn at Belen not only academically butalso about life. Some of these things are so repeated through our life in this school that they become embedded in both our minds and our hearts. A couple of months ago I went to visit Vanderbilt University in Nashville and as I was in the plane I was looking out the window and thinking of our graduation. I was thinking on how after today we have leave our routine that we have held for the last seven years and we have to move on, this of course made me sad. As I was looking sadly into the clouds a song popped up in my head and I tried to listen to it and as I listened closely I heard a song that goes like this ''Quimbaracumbara quimbaquim bam ba ... " now, this is the instance where you are allowed to think me strange but believe me, when I realized that it was that specific song that popped up into my head I thought I was extremely strange since I'm neither Cuban or a big fan of Celia Cruz. Having that song in my head however, cheered me up because I realized that I am stuck with that song for the rest of my life. I have heard it for the last seven years so it is in my heart and even if I wanted to I couldn't forget it. I know now that I could be in Spain listening to Las Tunas or in Nahsville listening to country music or in Mexico listening to Mariachis and all I have to do is close my eyes and listen to that song because it's in me. The fact that the song is stuck with me forever is not exactly
I what cheered me up but it cheered me up to know that the song is so deep in me just by virtue of repetition then trust me: the faces of all those around me, there all in there, and so are the stupid funny comments in class, the complaints about the cafeteria, the complaints about basically everything else, our dreams and our disappointments, our struggles through projects and tests and the smiles of every single one of these people that you see before you. Today we are supposed to say a sad goodbye to all but we are only saying good-bye to a building and to seeing each others' faces everyday, but the fact is that for me all the sounds, sights, lessons, and songs of our class they are just one thought away and they will stay there until my heart which holds them stops beating.
There is a particular song which has been with the seniors for a long time and even though most of the song is not very appropriate for this occasion the refrain is, and it chants the words, "tlotjcaliente, hot; caliente." Friends, that's our challenge... to walk out of this school and be hot. I remember that Jerry told us that the Bible says that you have to either be hot or cold but not lukewarm because God will spew you out. Well, in you I have seen the holy spirit many times, I have seen it as we prayed united for a friend that was going through rough times last year, as we went together to the senior encounter despite all odds, as all you at one point or another offered me help, and as we struggled for seven years and finally succeeded. Something about the holy spirit is that it didn't come as a ghost or as a shadow but as a tongue of fire which bums and enlightens, and all of you have that fire inside you so then we must leave here and be hot, bum and shine like we said, like candles in the dark.
Miguel de Cervantes said that his quest was to "dream the impossible dream" well, our quest is very alike, it is also to ''do the impossible to achieve it." We all began high school with a dream that this day would come. The funny part is that today is not the climax of the dream, it is just the resolution, the climax, the interesting part, the rewarding part, happened as we struggled through these years. So I hope that the dreams you dream are hard to achieve so that you may enjoy all the work that it will take you to get there. If you ever think that your dreams are too ambitious just remember this: A very prominent man who died in the cross promised that all you ever needed to do was to serve, and if we have been taught one thing in this school is to do that. That's all we need to achieve any dream no matter how ambitious.
By now I've been able to look into all of your eyes and I can't help but smile because in only four years you have all given so much to so many including me. I then, can only wonder at the many things that are yet to be achieved; so I thank you for all the favors, all your support, all your smiles, all your jokes, and all the experiences that we shared. Please don't let that fire which has driven you this far extinguish but let it bum and light, serve and be hot anywhere you go, after all, up to now it has been fun.
Well, good-bye, good luck, and may God give you not peace or blind faith, but may he make you seek to find, struggle to achieve, fight and not yield, may he always giveyou dreams, and finally next to him may he give you rest.
In the words of a very good friend of mine who works at school named Ninja, who always seems to find the strength and the way to cheer me up, I say to you class of '97 "Los Quiero Mucha."
Arturo Balandra
Senior-Parent Banquet
As seniors prepare to bark on their journey to lege there is always an cle they must face. This obstacle isn't getting accepted into collage or getting a good score on the SAT, it's trying to get their parents to let go. len tries to help the seniors by having the quet.
Every first Sunday in May, all the seniors and their parents file in to the Belen cafeteria to say thank you and goodbye to each other over a wonderful dinner. Parents thank their sons for being the light of their life and the sons say goodbye. Th is year was even more special as a group of mothers presented a video of all the seniors as babies, then: now as "men for others".
It's never easy to say good bye to a person whom you have raised and cared for 18 years of life. Hopefully, through the Banquet the parents can spend a night together with their sons before they step out into the world as college men
Jose Fernandez
Mr and Mrs. Santa-Cruz pose for a picture with there son Ivan SantaCruz.
Pelleya and his mother savor the moment during their last Belen meal together.
and
stand with their parents after a great bonding experience during the SeniorParent Banquet.
Nicolas
Seniors Erik Blanco, Armando Cervera,
Andres Rodriguez (left to right)
Alexandre Rico and his mom take time off from the Senior-Parent Banquet dinner to pose for a memorable picture.
Wolverines'
The Varsity Cross Country team finished first in the district, region and county. Second in the state.
The Wolverine wrestling team won the district with a record of 16 wins and 0 losses.
Jorge Vigo Athlete of the Year
Michael Llorente Sportsman of the Year
Marcos Macau Sportsman of the Year
Ivan Santa-Cruz Scholar Athlete of the Year
The Wolverine swim team extended their winning tradition by finishing first in the county and district, as well as seventh in the state.
The Wolverine Track and Field team continued their dominance in the county by capturing the 4A district championship for the seventh consecutive year. Other accomplishments include placing fifth in regional competition, and fourteenth in the state.
For the first time in school history, the Wolverine Soccer team brought home the district championship.
FOOTBALL OFFENSE 4A-2A
-Mike Martinez: Martinez was Dade's top-ranked quaterback for small schools, passing for 1,430 yards. He completed 59.6 percent of his passes, connecting on 12 touchdowns to lead the Wolverines.
BOYS' VOLLEYBALL
-Marcos Macau: The Belen senior wins this award for the second straight year. He was Dade's most complete player, being successful at the net or away from it. He averaged 11 kills per match
The Miam-i Herald's 1996-1997
Pfayers of the Year
Every year athletes from all Michael Martinez (football). schools in Dade County are These strapping young ognized for their outstanding letes were nominated by their performances in their respective coaches and chosen by other sports. This year, three Belen coaches. Congratulations to athletes were honored by the these leaders, ami Herald for their may their success follow ces in 4A sports. These three them after Belen. vigorous Wolverines were, Jose Fernandez cos Macau (volleyball), Erik Montalvo (cross country), and
BOYS' CROSS-COUNTRY
-Erik Montalvo: Montalvo had a stellar year, finishing first in the district and regional meets and third at the state meet. He was selected first-team All-State. He led the Wolverines to a second-place finish in the state meet.
I Thank y ou Alex Bur g os for the p hotographs
Senior Alexis Mantecon awaits the gun for the start of the 4 x 800 meter relay final
On his first curve, Bustamante holds a comfortable lead on the rest of the pack
Llanes uses a final burst of energy in the final 15 meters.
Montalvo is right behind the Bishop Kenny runner with 100 meters to go in the race.
Mantecon passes a Bishop Kenny runner in the final 40 meters of the first leg
With 100 meters to go in his leg, Bustamante tries to keep it close.
Llanes hands the baton off to senior Erik Montalvo for the anchor leg
Montalvo begins his final kick in hopes of catching Bishop Kenny runner.
Mantecon gives it his all in the final 10 meters of his career.
Bustamante hands off the baton to junior Mikel Llanes to start the third leg.
On the first curve, Bishop Kenny appears to have an insurmountable lead.
Bishop Kenny runner manages to hold off Montalvo and finishes in first place.
Mantecon hands off the baton to freshman Jorge Bustamante to start the second leg
Llanes tries to stay close to the Bishop Kenny runner.
With one lap to go , Montalvo has closed the gap.
Montalvo crosses the finish line in second place after a personal best split of 1:56. The overall time of 8:03 set a new school record
Education Finance
lnvierta en una Educaci6n de Calidad
Financiar una educaci6n de calidad pede ser dificil para cualquier familia. Por eso, nosotros le ofrecemos varios planes de financiamientc para poner el costo de esa educaci6n a su alcance.
Prestamos para Estudiantes
Estudiantes Universitarios
Primer Aiio
Segundo Ana
(.Que Cantidad Puede Ud. Pedir Prestada?
Descripci6n/ Elegibilidad
Aiios Restantes
Acumulativo
<.Cuando Se Comienza a Pagar el Prestamo?
Dependiente lndependiente
$2,625
$3,500
$5,500
$23 ,000
Graduado o Profesional
ILimite Anual I $8,500 I
IAcumulativo I $65,500 I
$2 625
$3,500
$5,500
$23,000
Prestamo Federal Subsidiado "Stafford"
Prestamo federal disp6nible para estudiantes graduados de escuelas secundarias, Junior Colleges, Universidades, Escuelas de postgrados, profesionales que esten matriculados por lo menos a tiempo parcial, y cum plan con los requisitos de necesidad financiera del programa. El gobierno federal paga el interes mientras Ud. este en escuela, o durante los periodos en que Ud. califique para aplazar sus pagos.
Los pages del capital e intereses comienzan 6 meses despues que Ud deje se estar matriculado por lo menos a tiempo parcial.
El periodo para pagarel pn::stamo general mete es de por lo menos 5 aiios pero no mas de 10 afios, con un pago mensual minima de $50.
Prestamos a Padres
Descripci6n/
Estudiantes Universitarios
Dependiente lndependiente
Primer Aflo $2,625
Segundo Aflo
Alios Restantes
Acumulativo
Graduado o Profesional
!UmiteAnual 1 s1s,500 I
IAcumulativo 1 $138,500 I
Prestamo Federal No Subsidiado "Stafford"
Prestamo federal disponible para estudiantes graduados de escuelas secundarias, Junior Colleges, Universidades, o escuelas de postgrados, profesionales que esten matriculados par lo menos a tiempo parcial, y que no cumplan, en parte o completamente, con los requisites de necesidad financiera del prestamo Federal subsidiado •Stafford". Ud. es responsable del pago del interes que se acumula mientras Ud. estudia; no obstante Ud. puede optar para que le anadan el interes aJ saldo de su capital.
El interes comienza a contar desde el dfa que se entregue el prestamo. Mientras Ud. este estudiando, puede posponer el pago del interes anadiendo el interes acumulado al saldo de su prestamo.
Los pagos del saldo del capital comienzan 6 meses despues que Ud. deje de estar matriculado por lo menos a tiempo parcial.
Para este prestarno no es precise tener una necesidad financiera y puede cubrirle el costa total de Ia educaci6n, menos otros Elegibilidad tipos de ayuda financiera que Ud haya-recibido. Disponible para padres naturales o adoptivos; o representantes legales de un estudiante elegible y dependiente
(.Cuanto puede Hasta el costo de Ia carrera, menos Ia ayuda financiera del prestamo "Stafford" (por ejemplo si Ia carrera cuesta $20,000 y su pedir prestado? hijo recibe $2,500 en prestamos del "Stafford", Ud. puede calificar para recibir hasta$17,500).
<.Cuando se comienza a Ud. comienza a pagar el prestarno dentro de 60 dias de haber recibido el dinero del prestamo. pagarel prestamo?
Como Solicitar los Prestamos "Stafford" o "Plus"
1. Obtenga gratis una planilla de Ayuda Federal para Estudiantes (conocida en ingles por las siglas FAFSA) Esta planilla Ia consigue en Ia Universidad que Ud. elija.
2. Llene y devuelva Ia planilla FAFSA de acuerdo con las instrucciones de Ia misma.
3. La Universidad, noel banco, determinara Ia cantidad y el tipo de asistencia financiera para Ia cual Ud. califica. La universidad le enviara entonces Ia carta notificandole Ia aceptaci6n y cantidad de su prestamo.
4. Llene Ia solicitud de prestamo de acuerdo las instrucciones y enviela a Ia universidad
5. La Universidad procesara su solicitud y Ia ei Jviara a BAC Education Finance
6 BAC Education Finance le entregara los foflcJos del prestamo a Ia universidad
Para recibir una planilla de soficitud y mas informaci6n, llarne gratis al1-800-444-0621 OFICIALES
Henry B. Howard
Chief Operating Officer
F. Alfredo Pellas, Jr. Chairman
Mas de 66 arias combinando educaci6n y experiencia en prestamos
Ernest E. Smith, Jr., Senior
Vice President
Arden M. Cassimire Senior Vice President
6
Invest in a Quality Education
Financ ing a quality educat ion can be quite an undertaking f or any family That's why we offer a number of bank and government financing plans to help bri ng the cost of an education with in reach
Student Loans
!Subsidized Federal Stafford Loan
Description Eligibility
A f ederal loan available to undergraduate and graduate students who are enrolled at least half-t ime and who meet certain financial - need criteria. The federal government pays the interest while you are in school or during periods wheh you qualify for a loan payment deferment.
llunsubsidized Federal Stafford Loan
A federal loan avai lable to undergraduate and graduate students who are enrolled at least ha lf-t ime and who do not meet the financial-need criteria to qualify in whole or in part for a subsid ized Federal Stafford Loan You are responsible for paying the i nterest that accumulates while you are in school; however you may choose to have the interest added to your princ ipal balance
How Much Can You Borrow? When Does Repayment Begin?
Interest begins to accrue on the day the loan is Repayment on the principal and interest disbursed While you are enrolled, you may begins 6 months after you cease to be enrolled postpone interest payments by adding the at least half-time. accumulated interest to your outstanding loan balance
The repayment period generally lasts at least 5 years but no more than 10 years with a Repayment of the principal balance begins 6 minimum monthly payment of $50 * months after you cease to be enrolled at least half-time
Parent Loans
!Federal PLUS Loan IEquity Personal Line of F1rstL1ne Credit of Credit
This loan is available without regard An unsecured line to financial need and may cover the A line of credit of credit without Description full cost-of-education , less other secured by the having to own a forms of financial aid Available to Eligibility the natural or adoptive parent(s) or equity in your home or tap the legal guardians(s) of an eligible home equ ity in your dependent student. home
Up to the cost-of-education less How Much fi nancial aid from Stafford Loans Can You (e g if tuition is $20 ,000 , and your $10 ,000 to $1,500 to Borrow? child receives $2 ,500 in Stafford $250,000- $25 ,000Loans, you may be eligible to borrow up to $17,500)
When Does Payment begins Payment begins Payment begins within 60 days of within 45 days within 45 days of Repayment the loan disbursement. of drawing on drawing on the Begin? the line. line
To apply for Stafford of PL US L oans: I O b tai n a Free Appl
PayAnyDay Loan
A loan with equal monthly payments for the term of the loan, with no collateral required
$2,500 to $2S,ooo-
Payment begins within 45 days of the loan disbursement.
QUEREMOS FELICITAR A NUESTRO NIETO
. MANOLO JESUS DIAZ #6
POR SU
GRADUACION
EN EL COLEGIO DE
BELEN
TAMBIEN QUEREMOS FELICITAR
A NUETRO OTRO NIETO
MICHAEL JOSE DIAZ #60
POR HABER COMENZADO A JUGAR FOOTBALL
CARINOSAMENTE SUS ABUELOS
CONSUELO Y HUMBERTO BAEZ
JORGE
SON, WE ARE PROUD OF YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS, BUT MOST OF ALL WE ARE VERY PROUD OF YOU. Goo BLESS You ALWAYS,
PAPI, MAMI, MONICA, ABI,
TETE Y PUNCKY
THE
LANDA FAMILY
CONGRATULATES
THE BELEN CLASS OF '9 7
Pedri.
Congratulations and best of luck to you and the rest of the Class of '97. We love you,
Mom, Dad, Albert and your grandparents
CongratuCations!!
Congratulations and Good Luck in the Real World from your Loving Families Remember "La persitencia y Ia determinacion son Ia clave del exito"
Gomez, Adrian ; 160 Gomez, Frank .' 183 Gomez, Javier 102, 183, 184 Gomez, Oscar 35, 166 Gonzalez, Adrian J . . 172 Gonzalez, Angel 177 Gonzalez, Carlos 36, 165, 166 Gonzalez, Daniel 153 Gonzalez, Daniel A 172 Gonzalez, Eddie 114 Gonzalez, Eduardo 183 Gonzalez, Eric 177 Gonzalez, Gabriel 177 Gonzalez, George 153 Gonzalez, Louis 153 Gonzalez, Lynette 26 Gonzalez, Marco 89, 166 Gonzalez, Mario 178 Gonzalez, Michael 153, 183 Gonzalez, Raul 183 Gonzalez, Xavier 183 Gonzalez - Lerra, F 178
Gonzalez- Portuondo, Julio 178
Gonzalez-Kakouris, A. 160
Gonzalez-Portuando, J. 3
Gonzalez-Ruaix, A 153
Gorordo, Felice 36, 130 Gorordo, Leonardo 166 Got Spirit'' Hidalg, Pat I. 24
Goudie, Fernando 49, 92, 98,183
Goudie, Ricardo 166
Gramateges, Ryan 153 Gramatges, Robert 34, 166
Granda, Frank G 299
Granda, Javier 177,183
Greenhauff, David 166
Grillo, Jorge 100, 183 Groover, Nicholas 153
Guanche, Erik 183 Guardiola, Alejandro 153
Gubieda, Michael 178
Gueits, Christopher 93, 153
Gueits, Cristopher 92 Guerra, Alfred 166
Guerra, Gabriel 153
Guerra, Marcelo 76 Guerra, Marcelo H . . 172
Guevara, John 153
Guida, Huberto 133
Guida, Hurnberto 123, 133
Guida, Urnberto 121 Gutierrez, Gabriel 166 Gutierrez, Javier 172
Gutierrez, Nicholas 153
Gutierrez, Ruben 166
Gutierrez-Boronat, Orlando
62,63, 123,124,145, 146
Guzman, Eric A 172
Guzman, Mark 100, 178
Haibi, Dora 57, 145, 146
Hall, Brian 160, 163
Hansen, Eric 58, 83, 145, 146, 190
Henriques, Steven 178
Hermida, Christian 160
Hermida, Stephan 154
Hernandez, Alejandro 166
Hernandez, Alexander 160
Hernandez, Carlos 183
Hernandez, Daniel 154
Hernandez, David P. 31, 50,61,72,183
Hernandez, Fernando 154
Hernandez, John 154
Hernandez, Marina 145, 146
Hernandez, Michael G 172
Hernandez, Pedro A. 61, 145, 146, 172
Hernandez, Ricardo 154
Hernandez, Roberto 45
Hernandez, Silvia 51, 113
Hernandez, Sylvia 145, 146
Hernandez, Victor 3, 18
Herran, Soraya 2, 145, 146
Hicks, Michael 177, 178
Hidalgo, Patrick 19, 113, 121, 122, 123, 133
Hoar, Francis X 172
Hoyos, Manuel B 172
Huesman, Mark 95, 166
Humbert, Paul 160
Hyman S.J., Br. B 146
IIcaza, Chermaine 48, 49, 145, 146
Iglesias, Javier 183 Iglesias, Rene 178
Iglesias, Ricardo 154
Iglesias, Steven 160
Iglesias., Vicente 166
Inguanzo, Carlos 154
Izaguirre, Alfredo 178
Izquirdo's, Father 138
JJacobson, Gabriel S. 17, 40,53,57, 109,130,131, 184
Jacoby,Juan 98,99
Jacomino, Javier 166
Jaile, Carlos 82
Jaile, Chris 76, 82, 83
Jaile,Rodriguez- 180
Janania, Khaled 160
Jardon, Thomas 160
Jays, Jesuit B. 82
Jemeson, Gregory 172
Jimenez, Beatriz 44, 57,
140, 141, 145, 146, 177
Jimenez, Jose A 172
Jimenez, Xavier 178
Johnston, Andrew 160
Jonathon, O'Brien 161
Joseff, Nathan 154
Juarez, Luigi 154
Junquera, Angel 178
Justo, George 154
KKincade, Giovanni 160
Knickerboker, Lauren 27
Kurenuma, Kenji D . 94, 184
LLa Barra, Leon D. 166
Lago,David 160
Lagos, Guillermo 88, 177, 178
Lagos, William 76
Landa, Jorge Y. 25, 102 Lara, Luis 154
Laralde, Mike 76
Larralde, Mark 178
Larrieu, Francisco 166
Larrieu, Manuel 166
Larrieu, Rene A 154
Lausell, Ian 178
Lavernia, Daniel 166
Lavernia, Homero 178
Lay, David D. 38, 96, 184
Leal, Christopher 160
Ledesma, Rafael 49, 145, 147
Leiva, Christian 160
Lemus, Fransisco 18 Lemus, John P. 160
Lemus, Michael J 154
Leon, Daniel A 172
Leon, Dayron 154
Leon, Derek C 172
Leon, Gisela 146, 147 Leon, Rene 125
Leon, Victor 160
Lera, Abel 166
Leyva, Jonathan 37, 166
Livermore, Jorge A 172
Llaca, Alejandro M 172
Llama, Alejandro 103, 178
Llama, Robert 27
Llama, Thomas 126,190, 191
Llanes, Mikel 11, 91, 102, 103, 184
Lledo, Jonathan 172
Llera, Antonio 160
Llorente, Mark 76, 172
Llorente, Matthew 160
Llorente, Michael 24, 26, 66,75,96,190
Llorente, Ricardo J 154
Lobo-Navia, Luis 160
Locascio, Edward J 172
Lopez, Carlos 166
Lopez, Daniel 78, 123, 172, 178, 184
Lopez, De Q. 160
Lopez, Derek 160
Lopez, Erick 178
Lopez, Frances 147
Lopez, Geoffrey 76
Lopez, Henry 154
Lopez, Jeffery 178
Lopez, Jorge 166
Lopez, Ximena 147
Lopez-Santos, Francisco 184
Lorenzo, Bryan 0 0 0 0154
Lorenzo, Ernest A 0 172
Lorenzo, Jonathan 0 . 0 0178
Loret De Mala, Melchor 178
Lucio, Alejandro 0 093, 154
Lucio, Daniel 0 0 0 0100, 166
Lucio, Luis 0 0 0 0 0 0 0178
Luss,JaimeA 0 0 0 0 76,94, 102, 172
Lynch, Patrick 0 0 0 0 0 0160
MMacau, Marcus 0 0 0 0 0 0 025
Macau, Olga 0 0 0 0 0 0102
Machado, Rafael 0 0 0 0166
Macias, Eduardo 0 0 0 160, 163
Madariaga, John P. 0 0 0167
Madrigal, Gustavo 0 0 0167
Mahoney, Mary 0 0 147
Malatas, Alberto 0 076, 178
Malave, Andres 0 161
Malley, Robert 0 0 0 0146
Manduca, Albert M 0 0 172
Manrara, Alberto 0 0 0 0167
Manrique, Alejandro 98, 178
Mantecon, Alexis 48, 91, 102, 103, 132
Maradona, Guillermo 0 0167
Marchant, Michael 0 178
Marciano, Anthony 0 0 0 0161
Marin, Daniel G 0 . . 0 0172
Marin, David. 0 0. 0 178
Marino, Ramon 0 0 0 0 0178
Marquez, Jesus 0 0 0 0161
Marquez, Richard 0 0 102, 184
Marrero, PaulS 0 0 0 0 0154
Marti, Pedro 0 0 0 . . 0 0 0161
Martin, Alain D 0 0 0 0154
Martinez, Albert 0 0 197
Martinez, Alejandro 0 0178
Martinez, Daniel 0 0178
Martinez, Joel E 0 0 0 0 0172
Martinez, Jorge 30, 62, 146, 147
Martinez, Luis F 0 172
Martinez, Mario 0 0 0 0 0 0 076
Martinez, Michael P. 0 0 0184
Martinez, Reynick 0 0 0 0 0161
Martinez - Lejarza , J 0 0 0178
Mas, Idelfonso 0 0154
Mashayekh, Yousef 0 0 0154
Massa, George 093, 154
Masvidal, Daniel R 0 0 0 154, 167
Masvidal, David 0 0 0 0 083
Masvidal, Gabriel 039, 184
Masvidal, Sergio D. 184
Mauri, Eric 0 082,83,179
Mcgee, Michael J 172
McMillan, Victor 76, 179
Mederos, Jonathan M 154 Medina, Jorge 36, 37, 167
Mena, Cesar 161
Mena, Marco 161
Mena, Michael 0. 16, 39, 184
Mendez, Mario R. 184
Mendez, Raymond 16 7
Mendiola, Martin 179
Mendoza, Alejandro J. 184
Menendez, Antonio 167
Menendez, Joseph 166, 167
Menendez, Stefan A ... 154
Menocal, Ana M. 146
Merconchini, Geoffrey 172
Mesa, Daniel 179
Mesa, Jorge J 154 Mesa, Nelson 172
Michael, Paul 76, 172
Michael, Peter 35, 36, 167
Miguel, Andres M .
154
Miguel, Luis S. 12
Milian, Daniel 179
Milian, Jesus 179
Minoso, Alvaro 76, 179
Miqueli, Alexander J. 184
Mirambell, Alejandro 179
Miranda, Alejandro A 154 Miranda, Carlos 167
Miranda, Omar 19, 190
Miyar, Marie J 53, 146
Molero, Christopher 161
Molinares, Reuben 161
Moncholi, Manuel 2, 3
Montalvo, Ary 91, 92, 93 Montalvo, Eric 102, 103, 299
Montealegre, Arturo 179
Monteiro, Alfredo A 172
Montenegro, Daniel 179 Montenegro, Raul A 173 Montero, Joseluis 173
Montiel, Mauricio 154
Montiel, Michael 161
Monzon, Fernando X 173 Morales, Diego 75, 102, 184 Morales, Giovanni 167 Morales III, Roberto 161
Morejon, Javier L 155 Moreno, Pedro 161 Moreno, Ricky A 155 Morgan, Lawrence 179
To every beginning there is a brief moment of transition where the on bright light fades in darkness and life ends in order to begin anew. It is a moment as brief as creation like the closing of a chapter; it is a moment of revelation where the darkness sheds light to the mysteries of the past. Life is continuous like an ending rope and each ginning and end only marks a segment of that rope, for after each end there is a beginning and each end celebrates the arrival of the new beginning yet always carries with it the memory of the past. Each death becomes a celebration of and thus we continue living to die and dying in order to live.