Belen Jesuit Magazine | Winter 2007

Welcome Bienvenidos

Dear Alumni:

It is my pleasure to welcome you to the Alumni Magazine: Traditions. The magazine has long been the source of news and information for all of us who graduated from Belen, Dolores, Sagua, Electromecanica or Montserrat. While our new outreach and communication through the internet and e-mail has been a huge success, we know that nothing will ever replace the importance of our Alumni Magazine.

This issue celebrates the 25th anniversary, the silver celebration of Belen Jesuit’s current home on 8th street and 127th avenue. Many Jesuits, alumni and friends of the school dreamt of this new center of education in West Miami-Dade County. In the fall of 1981, their dream became a reality.

Many alumni also dreamt of a new Alumni Association when we gathered in the spring of 2004 to celebrate the sesquicentennial year of the foundation of Belen in Cuba. This too is a reality today as we pass our second election of the Board of Directors, we continue to chart new territory, but our footing is much more secure after a year in existence. Our traditions are strong, and as Ronald Reagan said in 1984, “Inspiration springs from great tradition.” We continue to be inspired and we continue to work towards the betterment of our Association, our alma mater, and our community.

I am very proud to see the many projects we have been able to accomplish in one year. Our Association and our Board is a vibrant, living and responsive community. We have gone from idea to action and the results have been impressive. We continue to provide support and opportunities for our alumni to gather in their reunions, the celebration of the Eucharist, or in meal at the luncheon the last Friday of every month. Our service to the community continues and has taken an added dimension of talks and presentations given in Belen Jesuit’s Roca Theater. Thought-provoking discussions about immigration and the role of Jesuit alumni in the counterrevolutionary movement in Cuba provide information to the Belen family. The creation and execution of the Belen Sports Hall of Fame this past February where working hand in hand with the school we were able to provide a long-overdue honor, to some of our alumni brothers. Events like tailgates, alumni races and basketball tournaments provide the opportunities for camaraderie and brotherhood to continue. Finally, we have fostered moral and financial support of the school as it continues to meet the challenges of the ever-changing world its students encounter on a daily basis. With new challenges ahead of us like a comprehensive survey of our alumni community, the construction of the new administrative building on campus, and continuing to improve our efforts online through the Belen NetCommunity, I am confident we will continue with the same enthusiasm, inspiration, faith in God and success our Jesuit fathers modeled 25 years ago as they brought us into the forefront of private school education in South Florida.

Queridos Antiguos Alumnos:

Me da mucho gusto darles la bienvenida a este nuevo Boletín de Antiguos Alumnos, Alumni Magazine: Traditions. El Boletín ha sido, por muchos años, fuente de noticias e información para todos los que estudiamos en Belen, Dolores, Sagua, La Electromecánica o Montserrat. Nada ve a restarle su importancia a esta revista, a pesar del enorme éxito que hemos tenido gracias a la comunicación por e-mail y el Internet. En este, estamos celebrando el Aniversario de Plata, 25 años de Belen Jesuit en la calle 6 y la avenida 127 del SW. Muchos Jesuitas, Antiguos Alumnos y amigos del Colegio soñaron con este nuevo centro de educación en el oeste del condado Miami-Dade, que se convirtió en realidad en el otoño de 1981.

Muchos antiguos alumnos soñaron también con una nueva Asociación de Antiguos Alumnos, cuando nos reunimos en la primavera del 2004 para celebrar los 150 años de la fundación de Belen en Cuba. Esto es también hoy una realidad. Después de la segunda elección para la Junta Directiva, continuamos explorando nuevos territorios, pero nuestra base es mucho más fuerte después de un año de experiencia. Nuestras tradiciones son fuertes, y como dijera Ronald Reagan en 1984, “La inspiración surge de una gran tradición”. Seguimos inspirados, y continuamos trabajando para mejorar nuestra Asociación, nuestra Alma Mater y nuestra comunidad.

Fernando Aran ‘75 President - Belen Alumni Association

Me siento muy orgulloso de ver cuántos proyectos se han hecho realidad en un año. Nuestra Asociación, y nuestra Junta Directiva, son una comunidad viva, sensible y vibrante. Hemos convertido en realidad nuestras ideas y obtenido resultados impresionantes. Seguimos ofreciendo apoyo y oportunidades para que nuestros antiguos alumnos tengan reuniones de sus Cursos, celebraciones de la Eucaristía, y almuerzos los últimos viernes de mes en el Colegio. Nuestro servicio a la comunidad continúa y se han añadido charlas y presentaciones en el Teatro Roca de Belen Jesuit. Discusiones que provocan intercambio de ideas acerca de Inmigración y el papel de los Antiguos Alumnos de Colegios Jesuitas en el movimiento contra la Revolución Comunista en Cuba. La creación y realización del Salón de la Fama de Deportes de Belen en Febrero 2007, trabajando en coordinación con el Colegio, donde pudimos ofrecer a algunos de nuestros hermanos antiguos alumnos un honor largamente merecido. Eventos como “tailgates”, competencias de antiguos alumnos, y torneos de baloncesto ofrecen oportunidades para que continúen y aumenten la camaradería y la hermandad entre todos. Finalmente, hemos promovido el apoyo moral y financiero al Colegio, que prepara a sus alumnos a enfrentar los retos de un mundo que cambia a diario. Con nuevos retos delante de nosotros, como una encuesta completa de nuestra comunidad de antiguos alumnos, la construcción de un nuevo edificio administrativo en los terrenos del Colegio y aumentar nuestros esfuerzos para mejorar el Belen NetCommunity, yo confío en que continuaremos con el mismo entusiasmo, inspiración, fe en Dios y en el éxito que los padres Jesuitas crearon hace 25 años cuando nos trajeron al frente de la educación en colegios privados en el Sur de la Florida. Gracias por todo lo que ustedes hacen por la Asociación y por Belen Jesuit.

Thank you for all you do for the Association and Belen Jesuit.

Sincerely / Sinceramente, Fernando Arán ‘75 President Belen Alumni Association

For more than eight decades, athletics has been a very important part of the life of a student at el Colegio de Belen in Cuba and Belen Jesuit Preparatory School here in Miami.

On February 3, 2007 the first class of inductees was enshrined in the inaugural Belen Sports Hall of Fame. The collection of athletes and coaches truly are the best of the best representing 80 years of the commitment to sport and the development of the body so important to St. Ignatius of Loyola.

the inaugural Belen Sports Hall of Fame

After considering over 60 nominations of individuals and teams from both Cuba and Miami, the Hall of Fame Committee consisting of alumni from the 1940s through the 1990s, past and present coaches, Jesuits, and administrators are proud to officially announce the coaches and alumni athletes as members of the Inaugural Belen Sports Hall of Fame.

Hector Ortiz ‘86

Julio J. Bordas ‘48

Alfredo Porta Bolaños ‘47

Luis Botifoll ‘25

Rene Walker ‘69

Edward Acosta ‘99

Michael J. Covert ‘91

2007 Hall of Fame Inductees

Luis Botifoll, Belen Class of 1925

Ernesto Smith, Belen Class of 1936

Alfredo Porta Bolaños, Belen Class of 1947

Julio J. Bordas, Belen Class of 1948

Felix P. Perez-Majul, Belen Class of 1955

Eduardo Sowers, Belen Class of 1956

Rene Walker, Belen Class of 1969

Julio Campa, Belen Class of 1971

Jorge M. Cabrera, Belen Class of 1972

Eric Alvarez, Belen Class of 1985

Hector Ortiz, Belen Class of 1986

Michael J. Covert, Belen Class of 1991

Edward Acosta, Belen Class of 1999

1995 Cross Country Team

Otilio “Cappy” Campuzano, Coach

Carlos Barquin, Coach/Athletic Director

To find out more about our Hall of Fame Inductees visit the Belen NetCommunity at: http://netcommunity.belenjesuit.org/netcommunity

1995 State Champion Cross Country Team

Ernesto Smith ‘36

Julio Campa ‘71

Jorge Cabrera ‘72

Felix Perez-Majul ‘55

Eric Alvarez ‘85

Eduardo Sowers ‘56

Cappy Campuzano

Carlos Barquin

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION NEWS

While the Belen Alumni Association of Jesuit Schools from Cuba and Miami continues to be a resource for its Alumni and Belen Jesuit Preparatory School, these last few months have seen the Association reach out and extend its arms around our community and around the world!

This summer the Alumni Office assisted with over 12 reunions continuing the social tradition of our Association. Classes from as early as 1940 to 2005 (with our new One-Year Reunion gathering) came together to celebrate the brotherhood and spirit that is found in every graduating class.

Immigration Symposium – Where do we go from here? In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, a group of Miami Catholic organizations came together at Belen Jesuit’s Roca Theater on October 25th for a symposium about one of the most important issues that confront the Church today.

Members of the Symposium panel meet with students to discuss the issue.

MAGIS, the social service arm of the Belen Alumni Association, the US Council of Catholic Bishops’ “Justice for Immigrants” campaign, the Archdiocesan Office of Social Advocacy in Catholic Charities, SEPI, RAIM, and Belen Jesuit Preparatory School participated in the topical discussion.

MAGIS Chairman and Belen Alumni Association Board Member Alejandro Maderal ’62, was instrumental in organizing this symposium, whose panelists included Mr. Leo Anchondo, National Manager of the Justice for Immigrants campaign, USCCB, Washington DC, Fr. William Rickle SJ,

Director of the Latino Aid and Migrant Ministry at Loyola University, Baltimore, MD, Fr. Mario Vizcaino, Director of SEPI, Miami, FL, and Gloria Luna, Coordinator of the Justice for Immigrants campaign, Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Miami.

Child’s Play – A summer program developed by Daniel Mendoza ’05 and funded by the Belen Alumni Association of Jesuit Schools from Cuba and Miami brought together Belen alumni and students from Corpus Christi School. In a time when the arts programs from most schools are being reduced or cut all together, Mendoza saw a need to provide these students with a speech, drama, performance, and movement program that they might not normally receive at their school.

Mendoza, a sophomore at New York University, brought together some of his classmates from Belen Jesuit, involved his family and other friends, and developed a curriculum which carried these students through a monthlong program hosted at Belen Jesuit. He then presented his program to the Association’s Board of Directors who approved funding for the project.

Of the program, Daniel stated, “I saw children gain confidence, speak more clearly, overcome differences, and learn to work well together. One student who had tried to sleep through my first class asked me not two weeks later for a longer poem to read for the final performance, because he wanted to show his father that he could do it.”

Dues Campaign and Alumni Survey

After another successful dues campaign the Association surpassed last year total and this year’s goal of $50,000.00. Thank you to all alumni who contributed and

supported the Association! Coming soon to your mailbox will be a mailing from the Alumni Office which contains a comprehensive yet brief survey of all of our alumni. Please spend a few minutes filling out the survey as it will help the Office better serve you - our alumni, the school and our community.

World Union of Jesuit Alumni (WUJA)

In a joint effort with the School, the Alumni Association played host in November to over 40 delegates from Alumni Associations from as far as Hong Kong and Australia to as close as Canada and Mexico as the WUJA had their organizational meeting for the upcoming World Alumni Congress in 2009.

Thanks to the leadership of Board Member Alvaro Cosculluela ’61 the guests were treated to the best of what Miami has to offer. Besides organizing the upcoming Congress, the delegates, including members from the Miami delegation completed work on a paper to be delivered to Father General Peter Hans Kolvenbach, SJ on the role of Alumni within the Jesuit community.

New Addition to the Alumni Office The Alumni Board of Directors recently approved the creation of a new position within the Alumni Office. Welcome to Ricardo Raimúndez ‘90 who now serves the Association as Communications Director and Alumni Affairs Officer. Besides assisting with the day to day work in the Alumni Office, Rick will be producing and editing the monthly Alumni e-News and the biannual Alumni Magazine - Traditions. With a background in Communications and five years in television production, Rick is a welcome addition to the Alumni Office.

Metallic Milestone…

Reflections on a Silver Anniversary Celebration looking back at Belen Jesuit’s 25 years on its current campus

In September of 1981, Belen Jesuit opened its door for the first time at the campus it currently calls its home. The school has undergone several additions and although the faces within the student body have changed throughout the years, the Jesuit Ideals continue to be taught and understood within the concrete walls of the building located at Southwest 127th Avenue just north of Tamiami Trail...

Several members of the Belen community, Fr. Francisco Perez Lerena, S.J. ‘44, President of Belen Jesuit (81-82) and currently Superior of the Jesuits in Miami, Hector Formosa-Murias ‘82, Student Council President, and currently, a Miami attorney of a successful private practice and Carol Vila, Math Department Chair (76-02) and currently Belen Jesuit’s Director of Technology and Computer Science Department Chair, share their personal memories on this the 25th Anniversary of the ‘Nuevo Colegio” – focusing on the dream of turning a new campus into a reality and specifically, what the school means to them as Belen Jesuit continues to strive for excellence. Plus, we look back at the article written and published in October 1981 by the Alumni Association’s Spiritual Director Fr. Juan Dorta-Duque, S.J. ‘40, on that very first day of this the new school...

Reflecciones del P. Francisco Perez Lerena, S.J.

Laobra del Colegio nuevo, Belen Jesuit Preparatory School, en el 500 SW 127 Avenida, en Miami, fue fruto del trabajo de todos los Jesuitas. No es un hongo, que nació en este lugar. Es un árbol trasplantado varias veces, primero en La Habana, después en Marianao, y ahora en su tercera localización en Miami.

La visión del nuevo Colegio fue inspirada por el Padre John Edwards, S.J., Provincial de los Jesuitas en la Provincia de Nueva Orleáns, a la que pertenece Miami.

Pepín Bosch, presidente de la Bacardí, donó los primeros 10 acres para la construcción del Colegio. El arquitecto Adolfo Albaisa q.e.p.d. diseñó el edificio. El contratista fue Lázaro Milton. No fue fácil conseguir el dinero para la construcción. Los Antiguos Alumnos, y la comunidad cubana de Miami pudieron garantizar préstamos por 3.6 millones de dólares para adquirir otros 20 acres y empezar la construcción.

Carlos Barquín y Richard Stuart consiguieron dinero para los campos de deportes. José García, padre de Joey, ’87, Jonathan, ’88 y Jeffrey, ’90, hizo el sistema de regadío por un costo mínimo.

Monseñor Edward McCarthy, Arzobispo de Miami, asistió a la inauguración del Colegio. El primer día de clases, el 19 de septiembre de 1981, abrió sus puertas Belen a 522 estudiantes. La cafetería no estaba lista, y había que pedir comida de un McDonalds que estaba en la Calle 8.

Hoy en día el Colegio cuenta además con nuevas edificaciones que incluyen el Intercultural Center Library, el Ignatian Center for the Arts, que incluye el Teatro Roca y la Galeria de Arte Carlos Saladrigas y el Goizueta Athetic Center. La visión del Colegio, desde un principio, siempre ha sido que el alumno salga con la mayor y mejor preparación académica pero que al mismo tiempo tenga un equilibrio interior entre ser “Hombre para los demás” y ser un “Hombre CON los demás” como dijo en 1975 el Padre Pedro Arrupe, General de la Compañia de Jesús.

Pictured: (Top Left) Belen Jesuit’s Original Construction Site Sign, (Center Right) Fr. Felipe Arroyo, S.J. with Yvelisse and Jorge Bosch, (Bottom Left) Lazaro Milton and Fr. Felipe Arroyo, S.J.

COMENZO

EDIFICIO

Por P. Juan M. Dorta-Duque, S.J. - Octubre 1981

Con un sencillo pero emotivo acto comenzó el Colegio de Belén el Curso 1981 – 1982 en su nuevo edificio situado en 500 S.W. 127 Ave. en Miami. Fué en la mañana del lunes 14 de septiembre de 1981.

Los alumnos se colocaron en perfecto orden y disciplina en el patio central del edificio frente a la bandera americana y a una estatua de Nuestra Señora de Belén. Después de recitar a coro el juramento a la Bandera, el Padre Sergio Figueredo, S.J., Principal del Colegio, pronunció el discurso de apertura. Recordó a los alumnos que “hoy era un día histórico en la vida de ellos” y al mismo tiempo “un día de alegría y acción de gracias” por haber podido empezar el año escolar en el nuevo edificio.

Dió algunos datos interesantes: 17 nuevos profesores, 210 nuevos estudiantes que comienzan sus experiencias académicas en Belén. Belén cuenta con 600 alumnos y 46 profesores.

El colegio de Belén fué fundado en la Habana en 1854. Al cumplir 127 años ha tenido que desempeñar su labor pedagógica en 5 diferentes edificios: El de Compostela, el de Marianao, los de Miami en el GESU, en la calle 8, y ahora en su nuevo edificio.

El P. Figueredo pone énfasis en que Belén no es otro esculea secundaria más de Miami. Es diferente y en algún sentido única. Belén tiene que cumplir con las directivas de la educación jesuita y conseguir sus metas dando una respuesta a los problemas espirituales y sociales de nuestra Comunidad de Miami. “Hay que esforzarse”, continúa el P. Figueredo “en mejorar la calidad de nuestros servicios en tres aspectos específicos: espíritu comunitario, excelencia académica, y formación humana y religiosa.”

A continuación el R. P. Rector, Francisco Pérez Lerena S.J. hizo una invocación pidiendo a Dios las gracia para realizar estas metas y dándole gracias por el beneficio del nuevo edificio. Rodeado el P. Rector de los 71 seniors que serán los primeros en graduarse el año 1982 en el nuevo Belén, cortó la cinta simbólica dando a todos los alumnos, profesores, y empleados acceso al nuevo edificio.

BENDICION DEL NUEVO COLEGIO DE BELEN JESUIT PREP SCHOOL

Sellevó a cabo el sábado 19 de septiembre de 1981 a las 5 P.M. Ofició el Arzobispo de Miami Mons. Edward A. McCarthy acompañado por Mons. Agustin Román, Obispo Auxiliar.

Reflections by Hector Formoso-Murias ‘82

Nottoo long ago it seems, I had the privilege to be a member of the first graduating class from the “new” Belen campus. I’m reluctant to say “new” because though the buildings and facilities may indeed have been used for the first time that year, everything that makes Belen unique remained unchanged. The new Belen campus, like those which preceded it, is merely a venue for the Jesuits’ mission. For a century and a half, Belen has set the stage uniting the dreamer and his dream. Realizing dreams is Belen’s true trademark –serving as a catalyst for its dreamers. Belen has shaped our lives and created extraordinary graduates. Herman Hesse wrote “one never reaches home, but when paths that have affinity for one another intersect, the whole world feels like home for a time.” Belen is our Home and our paths and dreams continue to be forged as one in blue and gold. Always, Men for Others…Live Fast…Godspeed.

Iallowed myself to slip into a stream of consciousness as I recalled “the move” from Belen on SW 8th Street and 7th Avenue to our current state-of-the-art facility (which was not always so state-of-the art!). The teachers, students and parents literally packed up the not so modern, but very functional, furniture, boards, books and file cabinets into pick-up trucks and drove them to our new home in Sweetwater. It was the Latin version of the Beverly Hillbillies! Thanks to the vision of Fr. Felipe Arroyo, S.J., we had a new home, but things were less than perfect as the coaches can attest with the flooding problem which was especially bad on the athletic fields. And then gradually Belen Jesuit was transformed into a world class school with the latest and greatest tools and technology thanks to the vision of Fr. Marcelino Garcia, S.J. We studied curricula and provide a collegeprep education which give our students a competitive edge along with world class activities and athletics programs. We began providing modern technology tools to our students and teachers in the mid-eighties—we have grown from a 20 station lab in 1983 to a model school for technology with all classrooms equipped with computers, SmartBoards, and projectors and special purpose computer labs and presentation facilities. A Science Building provides an atmosphere for students to develop skills, talents and aptitudes in the natural and physical sciences. In the Jesuit tradition, we seek a curriculum which balances tradition and technology and thus the Ignatian Center for the Arts was dedicated three years ago.

Adolfo

Albaisa y Molina nace en Camagüey, Cuba, el día 21 de abril de 1937.

Estudia primaria y secundaria en los Hermanos Maristas de Camagüey donde es alumno eminente y se destaca también como atleta.

Sintiendo siempre un gran entusiasmo y pasión por la arquitectura, Adolfo comienza su carrera en la Universidad de Santo Tomás de Villanueva en La Habana. Se gradúa con honores como arquitecto en el año 1959.

Adolfo sale al exilio en el año 1962, con su esposa Aida Zayas-Bazán quien en ese entonces esperaba su primer hijo.

Durante sus treinta y tantos años de práctica privada, Adolfo pone “alma y corazón” en cada una de sus obras. El Colegio Belén fue una de sus preferidas ya que estuvo involucrado desde el nacimiento de dicha idea y logró que lo que había sido un sueño por varios años, ahora se convirtiera en realidad.

Todos los que lo conocieron sienten el vacío de esta bella persona que con su inmensa bondad e inteligencia impactó la vida de tantos. Adolfo Mariano Albaisa se unió con nuestro Padre Celestial el día 28 de diciembre del 2006. Que descanse en paz Adolfo.

Reflections by Carol Vila

1- Monsignor Roman lays his hands on Fr. Frank Permuy, SJ ‘85 during his ordination in Gesu Church on September 9, 2006. 2- Recently ordained Fr. Permuy addresses the over 1000 at the mass. 3- Fr. Francisco Perez Lerena, SJ ‘44, Monsignor Roman, and Fr. Jesus Zaglul, SJ, Provincial of the Antilles congratulate Fr. Permuy. 4- Members of the Class of 2006 gather at the Belen vs. Columbus Football Alumni Tailgate at FIU on August 18, 2006. 5- Alumni from the classes of 1991 and 1992 celebrate the game. 6- Marcos Mestre ‘91, Luis Zuñiga ‘91, Dan Baldor ‘91 and Ralph Barba ‘90 meet at the tailgate before the game. 7- Like father, like son. Frankie Ruiz ‘96 and Paco Ruiz ‘73 celebrate Frankie’s success with this year’s cross country state champions. 8- Alumni Cross Country Runners gather for the “Glory Mile” Alumni Race. 9- Decade Winners of the “Glory Mile” Victor Arrieta ‘95, Frankie Ruiz ‘96, Otto Boudet ‘88, Carlos Batlle ‘80, Frank Plantada ‘78, Paco Ruiz ‘73. 10- Faculty/Staff Alumni come home with the ACC Faculty Basketball Trophy.

1- Los Cadetes de la Reina, Curso del 1960, gather to celebrate the Gift of Excellence as they have committed over $85,000.00 to Belen Jesuit’s scholarship fund. 2- Dr. Albert Hernandez ‘81 returns to his alma mater and meets with the freshman World History classes. 3- Alumni gather at the 9th Annual Fr. Izquierdo Memorial Golf Tournament on December 16, 2006. 4- The Riera family gathers with Manuel Garcia-Linares ‘87 at Doral. 5- Fr. Willie Garcia-Tuñon, SJ ‘87 and Tony Abella ‘59 head out to the first tee. 6Roberto Diego ‘49, Manolo Anton ‘50, and John Tetzeli ‘50 gather for Fr. Dorta-Duque’s birthday celebration. 7- P. Juan M. Dorta-Duque, S.J. ‘40, Alex Zequeira ‘90, and Manolo Alvarez ‘50 out for lunch. 8- Pablo Carreño ‘42 and Ariel Martinez ‘50 talk business with Fr. Dorta-Duque, S.J. 9Ariel Martinez, Aristeo Seigido ‘49, Enrique Lenza ‘50, and Carlos Bravo ‘49 also attending Fr. Dorta-Duque’s birthday. 10- Alumni gather at La Agrupación Católica Universitaria for the Spiritual Exercises for Alumni in August.

To see more event photos, log on to the Belen NetCommunity, the online community for our alumni: http://netcommunity.belenjesuit.org/ netcommunity

Monthly Alumni Reunions:

Why wait 5 years?

It’s noon on the last Friday of the month and alumni begin to arrive at Belen Jesuit’s Vincam Dining Room to catch up on the last month’s activities, news of newborn children and grandchildren, baptisms, weddings and what happened when they saw one of their classmates last weekend.

The following week, it is the first Friday of the month and classmates meet up with other alumni at Gesu Church to celebrate the Eucharist at the 12 o’clock mass presided by Fr. Eddy Alvarez, SJ ’63.

Every Tuesday night at 7:00pm alumni enter the Goizueta Athletic Center ready to relive their basketball playing days from el Colegio de Belén or Belen Jesuit. Young and experienced or former varsity basketball players and guys who want to stay in shape, Tuesday Night Alumni Basketball is the place to find the competition.

Every month the Alumni Association supports ongoing events that bring our alumni together promoting the continued development of mind, body, and soul – the cornerstone of Jesuit education.

As found deep in the Catholic tradition, the First Friday Mass is celebrated by our alumni at Gesu Church in downtown Miami. (118 NE 2nd Street) Frequently our alumni who work in downtown plan to spend their First Fridays in celebration of the Eucharist and the brotherhood from their days in school. After the mass, alumni go as a large group or smaller parties to lunch in the downtown area.

Rain or shine on Tuesday nights you will find alumni sprinting up and down the floors

in the Goizueta gym. Competition is fierce but the camaraderie is there as alums from the 60s and 70s join recent alumni who are studying in the area for 5 on 5 games. The tradition was started by Board Member Paco Ruiz ’73 who saw a need for our alumni to utilize the gym during off hours. Every final Friday of the month at noon, the Vincam Dining Room is buzzing with lively conversation, the exchanging of business cards, and toasts to the many great stories and successes of our alumni. With over 70 people on a regular basis the Monthly Alumni Luncheon has become a staple for many Belemitas. The dining is superb as Chef Richard delights the group every week with some new dish or recipe. It is the highlight of the month. Great networking and contact opportunities right in our own backyard.

The Alumni Association in its pursuit to bring our alumni brothers together works diligently to support these and other events. Make sure to visit the Belen NetCommunity for information on these and other moments that bring us all together as an alumni community.

Photos: 1- The Vincam Dining Room hosts alumni. 2- Alumni gather at Gesu Church. 3- Tuesday Night Basketball - Catch the Fever! 4- Gesu Church.

2.

Basketball Alumni Celebration

December 22, 2006 brought together nearly 50 alumni for a first-time event - The Alumni Basketball Celebration! The Wolverines played host to district rival Mater Academy and before a packed house at the Goizueta Athletic Center.

The halftime celebration included a blessing of the gym where the alumni present participated in the ceremony. The evening was capped by a Wolverines victory 65-47 earning alum and head coach Jose Roca ‘84 his 178 career win (passing Eugenio Ferreiro ‘68 in all-time victories in Miami). Photos: 1- Alumni gather with Fathers Cartaya, Garcia-Tuñon and Permuy to bless the gym. 2- Jose Roca ‘84 and family after his victory. 3- Four decades of basketball coaches (Mariano Loret de Mola ‘58, Jorge Martinez, Jose Roca, Eugenio Ferreiro and Ruben Marrero ‘75). 4- Ferreiro passes the ball and the record to Coach Roca.

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NEW SCHOLARSHIPS

SCHOLARSHIPS OPEN DOOR TO DIVERSITY:

Belen Jesuit Prep’s new Ágape scholarship will pay for several African-American students each year to attend the school

Cuban-American artist Tony Medoza used brilliant blue and yellow hues as he painted the image of a door on a canvas Thursday night in an Ocean Bank lobby. The painting, which was auctioned for $1,500, was meant to symbolize the opening of the doors at Belen Jesuit Preparatory School for new opportunities in education. Together, Ocean Bank and Belen, an all-boys private school at 500 SW 127th Avenue, have created a $1.2 Million scholarship program earmarked for African American students at Belen during the next seven years. It will be called the Agape scholarship program, using the Greek Word from the Bible to describe God’s love for humanity. The scholarships aim to make Belen education more accessible to African-American students in South Florida.

Javier Riera ‘91, Director of Development at Belen, thanked guests at the bank, 780 NW 42nd Avenue, for becoming “pioneers of diversity.” Referring to the event’s theme, “A quality education opens doors,” Riera smiled as he said, “Belen is progressing.”

A project that has been a year in planning was successfully implemented at the Start of the 2006-2007 school year when seven African-American students - five freshmen and two sophomores - were enrolled at the all boys school, receiving full scholarships.

The fund not only covers the $9,750 tuition - a cost that goes up approximately $350 each year - but also pays for books, uniforms, and extra-curricular activity fees. Those activities are an important aspect of the Belen experience, school officials said. “When we say success, we’re not just talking about academia success,” said Riera. “The most important success Belen strives for is formationsomething that encompasses everything, something that prepares these kids for the difficulties of life and all its details.”

A scholarship committee was created, pulling together counselors, teachers, spiritual counselors, alumni, the athletic director, school administrators and tour Ocean Bank representatives. Meeting once a month, the group addresses any new issues that have come up and the best solutions for dealing with them. “We would like to encourage the African-American community to acknowledge Belen as an option,” said Tony Cabrera, who sits on the board of directors at Ocean Bank. “ We also want to set an example for other institutions and inspire community involvement.”

City of Miami Mayor Manny Diaz, ‘73 said that the real success was the level of community involvement. “Too many times companies feel that they contribute by writing a check, but it’s about a check plus participation.”

The students receiving the scholarships have to first be accepted to the school by meeting the requirements just like every other student. Based on an entrance exam and grades received at previous schools, the boys are considered for enrollment.

One of the seven Agape Scholarship recipients, a freshman at Belen said, “There’s just a different vibe at the school. It’s a lot more challenging, but I like it.” and adding “I just want to be able to get into a good college and at Belen I know I can do that.”

- Excerpt from Liana Kozlowski’s article in The Miami Herald on December 3, 2006 -

Antonio Cabrera, José Concepción,. Fr. Marcelino García, S.J., City of Miami Mayor Manny Díaz ‘73, Javier Riera ‘91, Valeria Bland Thomas, and Craig Y. Epps

City of Miami Mayor Manny Diaz ‘73 speaks at the Agape Scholarship Event

Giving the Gift of Excellence

Cadetes de la Reina Scholarship - Class of 1960

Andres Jimenez ‘60 addresses the crowd at the “Cadetes de la Reina” Scholarship Luncheon

The class of 1960 was the last promotion of students to graduate from “el colegio de Belén” and several members of this group had contributed individually towards the school’s continuing commitment to Jesuit Education but at their 45 Year Reunion a decision was made to start up a scholarship bearing their class nickname: “Los cadetes de la Reina”, bringing to mind and honoring the graduation address given by Father Calvo, who was the Rector at the time.

This past September, details of the new gift from the class of 1960 were released to the Belen community at a luncheon at the School. The scholarship is designed primarily for those who not only have the potential of achieving and maintaining good academic standing, but also to those who have a spirit of service to others and in addition, are deemed likely to continue to be of service to our community at large.

To date the class of 1960 has pledged a total of $85,000 for the Belen Scholarship Program and encourage any alumnus to contribute in order to achieve a goal of more students living for the greater glory of God.

Father Luis Ripoll, S.J. Scholarship - Class of 1985

The Class of 1985 found inspiration in a Jesuit Father who had a profound effect in their lives while as students at Belen.

The Fr. Luis Ripoll, S.J. Scholarship is named for the former Rector and Spiritual Counselor of Belen who left an indelible mark with them and they, as a class, have worked diligently to raise $65,000 of their $150,000 gift goal. Their collective sentiments were expressed to one another with the following words. ‘His wisdom provided a calming, yet objective perspective. His kindness was unsurpassed, and above all, his wit and sense of humor was all encompassing. He is worthy of a scholarship in his name and much more.’

Curso del 1956

Hilton Miami Airport 2, 3, 4, de junio de 2006

Recepción, el viernes 2

Roberto Borbolla, Tony Loza, Jorge Méndez, Mario Ariet, Carlos Saavedra, Jose González Hermilla. Manuel Sánchez Couto

Roberto Borbolla, Jorge Méndez, Mario Ariet, Juan Falcón, Tony Loza, Carlos Saavedra, Manuel Sánchez Couto, José Glez. Hermilla, Luly y Armando Benavides, Carlos Pérez, Tony Yaniz, P. Chuco Villar S.J.

Eddy Sowers, Jorge Méndez, Eddy Morales, Roberto Borbolla, Mario Ariet

Yennis y Joche Arriandiaga, Marta Sánchez Couto, Nina y Jorge Méndez, Carmen Rosa y Roberto Borbolla

Carmen Rosa Borbolla, Marta Sánchez Couto, Diana Coronado, Nina Méndez, Carmenchú Dominicis, Malula Saavedra

Ignacio Blanco y su hijo Ignacio, Mario y Nini Ariet, Teresita y Tony Martin, Chuco Villar

50 Aniversario

Hilton Miami Airport

2, 3, 4, de junio de 2006

Cena de Gala, el sábado 3

Nicolás y Sue Rodríguez, César Incera, Nina y Jorge Méndez, Raúl y Rosemary Suárez

Panchito González Learra, Eddy Sowers, Chuco Villar, Maricruz González Learra, Marta y Manolo Sánchez Couto

Reinaldo y Diana López Lima, Daisy y José Manuel Pérez Clavijo

Gabriel Diaz Bergnes, Llillo Maderal, Eddy Sowers, Carlos Busot, Mario Ariet, Jorge Suárez, Eddy Morales

Ignacio Blanco entregando una placa grabada en madera a Roberto Borbolla, Delegado del 1956

Danny Hanlon, Class of 2006 President of the Student Council

Curso del 1956

Hilton Miami Airport

2, 3, 4, de junio de 2006

Cena de Gala, el sábado 3

Luly y Armando Benavides, Chuco Villar, Diana y Ricardo Coronado, Maricruz y Panchito González Learra, Tony Loza

Enrique y Rosa Sabater, Orlando y Gladys Alvarez, Luis y Maria Isabel Pella, Flavia y Alberto Sánchez

Mario y Nini Ariet, Elena y Luis Maderal Carlos y Esperanza Busot, Pepito y Marta Fernández Planas

Rosa María Arana, Alberto Villamil, Ignacio y Paloma Blanco, Maity y Guillermo Fernández, Maricruz y Panchito González Learra, Irma y Vicente Blanco

Jose Luis y Otilita González Hermilla, Manolo y Magaly García Lavaniegos, Raúl y Tessy Villaverde, Jorge y Carmenchú Dominicis

Gabino Díaz

P. Marcelino García, S.J. Rector de Belén

50 Aniversario

Hilton Miami Airport

2, 3, 4, de junio de 2006

Cena de Gala, el sábado 3

Tony Yániz, Ignacio Blanco hijo, Manolo y Edith Comella, Mayra y Pedro Blanco

Tony y Carol Gálvez, Cheryl y Juan J. Macho, Sharon y Félix Quintana, Luis y Maria Cristina Diehl

Maria, Joche y Yennis Arriandiaga, Kathy y J.J. Arriandiaga, Manolo y Marta Sánchez Couto

Gina y Jorge Suárez, Enrique y Raquel Casuso, Gabriel y Clara Díaz Bergnes

Emilia y Vicente Estrada, Maria Elena y Eddy Sowers, Eduardo y Georgina Morales, Carola y Carlos Valentin Pérez

Tony y Teresita Martín, Luis y Alicia Fernández Rocha, Olimpia y Nicolás Aneiros, Malula y Carlos Saavedra

Curso del 1956

Hilton Miami Airport

Juan y Fefita Falcón, P. Marcelino García, S.J., Gabino Díaz, Raimundo y Salomé Torres, Angélica y Cosme Benítez

2, 3, 4, de junio de 2006

Dania

Almuerzo en Belén, el domingo 4

Nicolás Aneiros, P. Jorge Sardiñas S.J., Joche Arriandiaga, Jorge Dominicis, Manuel Sánchez Couto, Jorge Méndez, Tony Loza

Manuel Sánchez Couto, Eddy y Georgina Morales, Mario Ariet, Carola y Carlos Valentín Pérez, Eddy y Maria Elena Sowers

Tony Martín, José Luis y Otilita González Hermilla, Roberto Borbolla, Luis y Maria Cristina Diehl

Ricardo y Diana Coronado en el almuerzo en Belén

Eugenio y

Aspuru, José y Millie Medina, César Vega ‘06, Danny Hanlon ‘06, Roberto y Carmen Rosa Borbolla

50 Aniversario

Belen Jesuit 4 de junio, 2006

Vacaciones en la Florida

Roberto Borbolla, Joche Arriandiaga, Pancho González Learra, Jorge Méndez en Key Biscayne

Nina y Jorge Méndez, Roberto y Carmen Rosa Borbolla, Tony y Carol Gálvez en Key West

Jorge y Carmenchú Dominicis, Jorge y Nina Méndez, Raúl y Rosemary Suárez, Roberto y Carmen Rosa Borbolla

Roberto y Carmen Rosa Borbolla, Nina y Jorge Méndez en Dry Tortugas

Maricruz González Learra Joche Arriandiaga, Rosa y Enrique Sabater

Olimpia y Nicolás Aneiros, Tony Loza, Pancho González Learra en la Oficina de Antiguos Alumnos en el Colegio

Cursos del ‘40, ‘41, y ‘42

Reunión en Belen Jesuit Domingo, 9 de julio, 2006

Francisco Diaz, P. Juan M. Dorta-Duque, S.J., Miguelito Morales, Pablo Carreño, Lorenzo Lamadrid, Ignacio Tamayo, Antonio Arvesú, Eduardo Fernández Jaén

Ignacio Tamayo, Ernesto Valdés, Miguelito Morales, Domingo Roldán, Gustavo Llarena, Carlos Alonso

Manolín Hernández, Domingo Roldán, Eduardo Fernández Jaén

Carlos Godínez, Héctor Romeu, Rafael Andino, Antonio Arvesú, Pablo Carreño

Graduados del ‘40, ‘41, y ‘42

Reunión en Belen Jesuit

Cursos del ‘40, ‘41, y ‘42

Domingo, 9 de julio, 2006

Grupo de señoras que asistieron al almuerzo en Belen Jesuit

Eduardo Fernández Jaén, Domingo Roldán, Ernesto Valdés, Carlos Alonso

Luis Santamarina, Augusto Rodriguez, José Rovira, P. Juan M. Dorta-Duque, S.J., Lorenzo Lamadrid

Luis Santamarina, Lorenzo Lamadrid, Augusto Rodriguez,

Carlos Godínez, Hector Romeu, Rafael Andino, Antonio Arvesú

Cursos del ‘40, ‘41, y ‘42

Reunión en Belen Jesuit Domingo, 9 de julio, 2006

Héctor Romeu, Rafael Andino, Antonio Arvesú

Beba y Lorenzo Lamadrid

Josefina y Pablo Carreño, Beba Lamadrid

Francisco Diaz y Sra., Silvia Santamarina

Luis Santamarina, Ernesto Valdés, José Rovira, Francisco Diaz, Lorenzo Lamadrid, Carlos Alonso, Augusto Rodriguez, P. Juan M. Dorta-Duque, S.J.

Carolyn e Ignacio Tamayo

Reunión en Belen Jesuit

Cursos del ‘40, ‘41, y ‘42

Domingo, 9 de julio, 2006

La famila de Augusto Rodriguez

Héctor Romeu, Rafael Andino, Ignacio Tamayo, Miguelito Morales, Carlos Alonso, Gustavo Llarena

José Rovira y Sra., Francisco Diaz y Sra.

José Rovira, P. Juan M. Dorta-Duque, S.J.

Las damas de la reunión en Belen Jesuit

Silvia y Luis Santamarina

Curso del 1946

En el Big Five Club

Sábado, 30 de junio, 2006

Grupo de graduados del curso ‘46 al celebrar 60 años de graduados

Julio y Rosa Portela, P. Juan M. Dorta-Duque, S.J., Pedro Sáenz y su hermano, José y Margarita Huerta

Jose y Ophelia Bertrand, P. Amando Llorente, S.J., Pedro Portela y Laura Lavastida

Vicente y Carmen Cossio, Rodolfo y Libia Villamil, Terina Pírez y Lourdes Valdes-Caiñas

Roberto Suárez, Eduardo Balbona, Fructuoso Pírez

Emiliano y Mercy Prats, P. José Luis Alemán, S.J., Luis Valls

60 Aniversario de Graduación

En el Big Five Club

Sábado, 30 de junio, 2006

En Belen Jesuit Domingo, 1 de julio, 2006

Las esposas de los graduados del curso del 1946

P. Marcelino Garcia, S.J. y P. Juan M. Dorta-Duque, S.J. con el grupo de graduados del curso ‘46

Cortando el cake de cumpleaños del Curso ‘46

José y Silvia Olózaga, Jorge Mantilla, Raúl y Nancy Piélago, P. Francisco Perez-Lerena, S.J. ‘44

Eduardo Balbona, P. Amando Llorente, S.J., Roberto y Miriam Suárez, Jose Bertrand

Tony y Sadi Garrido, Lourdes y Miguel Valdés-Caiñas

Curso del 1961

En el Big Five Club Sábado, 2 de septiembre, 2006

Freddy y Dania Borrás, Alicia e Iván Danger, Eduardo y Maria Soto Tamames

Henry López Aguiar, Alvaro Cosculluela, Armando López Sosa, Xavier Saínz

Luis Navarro, Henry López Aguiar, Mauricio Astorga, Manolo Huerta, Freddy Borrás, José Gutiérrez Otero, Armando López Sosa

Alvaro Cosculluela, Jorge Fernández Ceballos, Victor López de Mendoza, P. Marcelino García, S.J.

Alvaro Cosculluela, Jorge Fernández Ceballos, Carola Calderín, Victor López de Mendoza, P. Marcelino Garcia, S.J., P. Juan M. Dorta-Duque, S.J., Marcia López de Mendoza

Martín Rodriguez, José Gutiérrez Otero, Jorge Fernández Ceballos

Cake para el Curso del 1961

45 Aniversario de Graduación

En el Big Five Club

Sábado, 2 de septiembre, 2006

Grupo de graduados del curso ‘61 al celebrar 45 años de graduados

Mauricio y Alicia Astorga, Roberto y Olga Incera, Marietta y Fernando De Armendi, Carlos y Nancy Sánchez, Nenita y Luis Navarro

Fernando De Armendi, Siro Del Castillo, Carlos Sánchez, Martin Rodriguez

Ignacio Gallarreta, Martin Rodriguez, Tony Moreno de Ayala, Raúl Olazábal, P. Juan M. Dorta-Duque, S.J.

Sonia y Eddie Pérez, Manolo y Olguita Huerta, Mequi Santalla

Curso del 1961

45 ANIVERSARIO DE GRADUACIÓN

En Belen Jesuit Domingo, 3 de septiembre, 2006

Jorge Fernández Ceballos, José Gutiérrez Otero, Juan Luis Rodriguez Kohly, Ignacio Gallarreta

Marcia y Victor López de Mendoza, Jorge Fernández Ceballos Frances Bascuas, Marta y Alvaro Cosculluela

Padre Juan M. Dorta-Duque, S.J., Siro del Castillo

Alicia y Eddy Fernández Santalla, Martin Rodriguez

Eddie Pérez, Eddy Fernández Santalla, Juanito Santalla, Ignacio Gallarreta, Fernando De Armendi, Jorge Fernández Ceballos, Manolo Huerta, Luis Navarro, Guillermo Asper, Jose Gutiérrez Otero

Juan Luis Rodriguez Kohly, Alicia Astorga, Sonia y Eddy Pérez, Manolo Huerta, Thais y Xavier Sainz

Class of 1966 40 YEAR REUNION

Casa Juancho

Saturday, June 10, 2006

Mr. and Mrs. José Rodriguez Camacho

Mr. and Mrs. Julio Rodriguez, Alberto Benavides, José P. Redondo

Mr. and Mrs. Felipe Suárez, Mr. and Mrs. José R. Rovira

Mr. and Mrs. Rafael Achong, Maria Santos

Emilio Falero, Marino Ariza, Miguel Lasaga

Mr. and Mrs. Raúl Martinez

Class of 1966

Casa Juancho

Saturday, June 10, 2006

Joaquin Rodriguez, Raul Martinez, Eduardo Alemán, Alberto Benavides

Alberto Benavides, Jose P. Redondo, Fermin Santos, Jose R. Rovira, Rafael Achong

Alex Zequeira ‘90, Alejo Vada

Mr. and Mrs. Jesús Durán, Mr. and Mrs. Raul Martinez

Miguel Lasaga observing the class of 1966 graduation photos

Mr. and Mrs. Luis González Rivero

40 YEAR REUNION

Casa Juancho

Saturday, June 10, 2006

Miguel Lasaga, Alejo Vada, Jose R. Diaz de la Torre, Jesus Durán

The Class of 1966 at the Luncheon at Belen Jesuit

Marino Ariza, Luis González Rivero

The Class of 1966 with Fr. Juan M. Dorta Duque, S.J.

Mr. and Mrs. Jorge Leal, Mr. and Mrs. Angel González-Prendes

Class of 1971 35 YEAR REUNION

Casa Juancho

Saturday, September 9, 2006

“The Class of 71 held its 35 year reunion on September 9, 2006 at Casa Juancho. Those present were Orlando Puentes and his wife, Allison; Juanito Garcia and wife, Patricia, Felipe Martinez and wife, Ana, Jorge Busse and wife, Ana Maria, Pancho Navarrete and guest, Mr. & Mrs. Ralph Eguilior, Mr. & Mrs. Tommy Páez, Julio & Nancy Campa, Ramón & Lourdes Alonso, Jorge & Zoraida Caridad, Oscar & Carmen Gómez, Arturo & Liz Mosquera and Julio & Jeanette Gómez. Present from the faculty were Mariano Loret de Mola & wife and Mr. & Mrs. Madrigal. A great time was had by all and plans were made to do the reunions more often.”

-- Julio Gómez, Class of 1971 Delegate --

Class of 1976 30 YEAR REUNION

Monty’s in the Grove

Friday, September 15, 2006

48 out of 68 at Monty’s - What A Turnout!

Alberto Maciá, Miguel Balais, Antonio Moya, Rodrigo Bustamante, Joaquin Casajuana

George Espinosa, Joseph Fadel, Ariel Remos, Alvaro Cabrera, Juan Benitez

Jorge Pérez-Alvarez, Evelio Rodriguez, Pedro Montadas, Ignacio Jiménez

Crescencio Ruiz, Rafael Portuondo, Alfonso Ledo

Jose Franchi, Roberto Seoane, Victor Vianello, César Facio, Juan C. Parets, Miguel Tost

Class of 1976

De Goytisolo Residence

Saturday, September 16, 2006

Augie and Sylvia’s House was a blast!

Johnny Guiteras, Joaquin Casajuana, George Espinosa

Adalberto Vara, Alvaro Cabrera, Mr. & Mrs. Juan de la Fuente, Pedro Montadas

Mr. & Mrs. Paco Quintero, Mr. & Mrs. Gilberto López, Mr & Mrs. Pedro Montadas

Mr. & Mrs. Enrique Ramirez, Orestes Lugo and guest

Jorge Pérez-Alvarez, Miguel Tost, Mr. & Mrs. Juan Benitez Carlos Ramos, Jose Fadel

30 YEAR REUNION

Belen Jesuit

Sunday, September 17, 2006

The Portuondo and Zorrilla Families

Juan Benitez, Pedro Montadas, Crescencio Ruiz, Orestes Lugo, Juan Zorrilla

Carlos Diaz-Padrón, Cesar Facio, Juan Zorrilla, Pat Collins, Carlos Ramos, Rafael Portuondo, Enrique Ramirez

The Moya Family

The Pereira Family

Jorge Pereira, Crescencio Ruiz, Jose Franchi, Armando Rodriguez, Orestes Lugo

Class of 1980

Chispa Restaurant & Bar

Friday, June 9, 2006

Class of 1980 enjoying the Happy Hour at Chispa sponsored by Luis Mechoso and Gibraltar Bank

Jorge Serrat, Alex Zequeira ‘90, Luis Mechoso

Mariano Juncadella, Carlos Batlle, Jorge Serrat Rafael de los Reyes, Carlos Vara, Roberto Hernández

Francisco de la Cámara, Ramon Martinez-Quibus, Jorge de la Hoz, Carlos Batlle

Jorge Serrat lighting up a celebratory cigar

Javier Arellano, Francisco de la Cámara, and Rafael de los Reyes mingling about

25/26 YEAR REUNION

Serrat Residence

Saturday, June 10, 2006

The First Ladies of the Class of 1980

Alex Diaz and guest, Mr. and Mrs. Manuel Rico

Class of 1980 Delegate Carlos Batlle takes the mike to address those in attendance

The Class of 1980 posing for the cameras

Humberto Hernández, Mr. and Mrs. Rafael de los Reyes, Mr. and Mrs. Jorge Serrat, Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Irigoyen

Juan Torres, Humberto Machado, Alfredo Rabassa, Orlando Fernández, Luis Mechoso

Class of 1981

Coral Gables Country Club

Saturday, August 26, 2006

Beatriz and Fausto Alvarez, Ricky and Maren Martinez, Cristy and Jorge Blanco

Alvaro Fernández-Carol and Iris Vallabriga

José and Fari García

Eusebio and Maria Cristina García, Patricia Andreu and Sergio González

Benny and Marlene García

Ana Maria Robbins and Josí Herran

Susan and Tony Sánchez

Mario and Irma Solares

25 YEAR REUNION

Coral Gables Country Club

Saturday, August 26, 2006

Alberto Vega, Roberto Orta, José García

Lee and Lilly Vega

Juan Miguel and Orietta Portuondo

Beatriz Canals, Cristy Blanco, Maria Cristina Garcia, Maren Martinez, Patricia Andreu

Alvaro “Indio” Fernández-Carol “Now & Then”

Raul Vergara and Elizabeth Gadea

Jorge and Ana Maria Powell

Fred and Susie Sánchez

Class of 1981 25 YEAR REUNION

Coral Gables Country Club

Saturday, August 26, 2006

The Class of 1981 pile it on for one more group picture

Bernie Peña, Alberto Vega, Tony Sánchez, Adolfo Jiménez, Ricardo Busse, José Herrán

Class of 1981 Reunion Photo

Alberto and Marisol Vega, Ruth and Roberto Orta

Joaquin Armengol, Adolfo Jiménez, Lorenzo Lorenzo, Eusebio García, Sergio González, Jorge Blanco

Ricardo and Xiomara Busse, Bernie and Julie Peña

Class of 1986 20 YEAR REUNION

Biltmore Hotel

Saturday, October 7, 2006

Ralph Fernández de Castro, José Lopez-Jenkins along with his father, José

Mr. and Mrs. Tinerfe Tejera, Fr. Juan M. Dorta-Duque S.J., Mr. and Mrs. Jorge Mora

Max Sorondo, Terry Martin, Adriana Suárez, Emilio Rangel

Tony Valdés, Eddy Rodriguez

Mr. and Mrs. Eddy González del Valle, Mr. and Mrs. Rafael Espinosa, Mr. and Mrs. Javier Mariscal

Mr. and Mrs. Tony Portuondo, Mr. and Mrs. Jorge Cinca

Class of 1986

Biltmore Hotel Saturday, October 7, 2006

Lian Ortiz, Beatriz Tejera, Lian Verdeja, Christy Rossell

Mr. and Mrs. Tony Castro, Mr. and Mrs. Manny Crespo

Tony Portuondo, Jorge Cinca, Eddie Muñoz, Carlos Bravo

Héctor Ortiz, Luis Diaz, Eddy González del Valle, Jorge Mora

Mr. and Mrs. Pablo Uribasterra, Mr. and Mrs. Jorge Utset

Alex Zequeira ‘90, Jorge Barinaga ‘60, Fr. Juan M. Dorta-Duque, S.J., Juan Barinaga

20 YEAR REUNION

Biltmore Hotel

Saturday, October 7, 2006

Mr. and Mrs. Jose Herrán, Mr. and Mrs. Rafael Fernández de Castro, Mr. and Mrs Rafael Espinosa

Armando Fiterre and Amy Alonso, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Pozo

José López-Jenkins, Fr. Juan M. Dorta-Duque, S.J.

Mr. & Mrs. Kevin Deeb, Mr. and Mrs. José López, Mr. and Mrs. Jorge Padrón

Mr. and Mrs. Mario Fernández, Mr. and Mrs. Eddy Rodriguez

Mr. and Mrs. Tino Herrán, Rafael Fernández de Castro

Colegio Dolores

En el Miami Springs Country Club Sábado, 15 de julio, 2006

Rafael y Saba Millares, Vanessa y Jorge Sainz

Tony y Elvira Casal, Gloria Aguilar, José M. Bravo y Nuri Descamps, Pedro Haber

Luis Somoano, Carlos y Kirsa Raffo, Guillermo y Edna Reverón, Carlo y Aristides Berenguer, Johnny y Angela Leyva

Daniel González, Jorge Castilla, Alfredo Marrero

Eddy y Olga Alvarez, Pedro y Esther Haber Carlos y Rosita Santa Cruz

Julián y Elvira Guilarte, Frank y Vilma Saavedra, Silvestre y Marilú Aguilar

Reunión Anual de los Antiguos Alumnos

En el Miami Springs Country Club

Sábado, 15 de julio, 2006

Magda y Titi Ortiz, Ignacio y Gini Espino, René y Carmen Sagebién, Antonio y Mercedes Frean

José M. Bravo - Haciendo gala de sus dotes artisticas

Gumersindo Danger y Daisy Pérez, Maria Isabel Casas, Eugenio Aguilera, Jose Felipe y Christy Maria Cos

Alex Zequeira y P. Juan M. Dorta-Duque, S.J., dando la bendición

Juan P. Aguilar y Ann Ballen de Aguilar, Rafael y Teresa Taquechel

Rafael Odio con sus anécdotas del Colegio

Rafael Odio, Gumersindo Danger y Daisy Peréz, Ignacio Espino, Eugenio Aguilera

Los Dolorinos se divierten bailando

Reunión Antiguos Alumnos Colegio Dolores

Reflecciones de un Dolorino

Queridos amigos:

Hace sólo unos días mi esposa Marilú y yo volvimos de nuevo a Miami con el propósito de asistir a la reunión anual del Colegio de Dolores. Siempre quedo sorprendido al darme cuenta cómo después de tanto tiempo el espíritu prevalece, y el tiempo parece que no pasa, y en unos minutos podemos “conectar” inmediatamente con otra época: con el compañero que no veíamos desde hacía cuatro o cinco décadas, o con la persona que quedó allá en la isla pero que aparece súbitamente delante de nuestros ojos...y con los recuerdos...y el hecho es que podemos seguir la conversación interrumpida allí mismo donde la dejamos... Yo repito que solamente este hecho, que nos transporta al pasado - aunque sea solo por unas cuantas horas - merece la pena el esfuerzo por participar en esta celebración colegial... Esta continuidad y perseverancia es un verdadero milagro de Dios, en su infinita alegría, realizada anualmente, y que el P. Dorta-Duque, S.J., ha dicho que tiene un sustrato humano: Pedro Haber, que lo empezó de propia iniciativa, hace ya algún tiempo, como un regalo para todos nosotros... y ésto nos hace pensar que la labor del Colegio sigue viva, que su enseñanza diaria e intensa sigue renovándonos y perfeccionándonos hasta que lleguemos a nuestro destino final... El Colegio sigue con nosotros y permanece misteriosamente en nosotros, nunca nos ha abandonado totalmente... Muchos recuerdos vienen a mi mente entonces, e imagino aquel sólido edificio que abarcaba varias cuadras con sus largos y anchos pasillos, sus escaleras de mármol antiguas, y las de caracol, con sus aulas, su antigua iglesia y la Virgen Dolorosa en el centro del altar mayor, la misa diaria de ocho con el sermón, y los patios en distintos niveles... y pienso que todo estuvo programado, por así decirlo, para prepararnos, lenta pero sólidamente, para que pudiéramos afrontar todo lo que nos esperaba en la vida... Y al considerar todo esto, con el paso del tiempo, al comprobarlo al venir aquí, al regresar a nuestras profundas raíces, al ver como la Providencia Divina nos ha ido guiando y conservando en todo momento, uno no puede menos que alegrarse y dar gracias por todo, teniendo en cuenta que Dios dirige siempre los acontecimientos, con el objeto de sacar de ellos un bien... Sin embargo, es verdad que a veces asusta un poco regresar al pasado, pero mi experiencia y los comentarios de los que han venido a estas reuniones son bien positivos... Es como revivir espiritualmente algo que siempre tenemos dentro... y me alegro por la amistad renovada, y doy gracias al P. Dorta-Duque, S.J., ejemplo magnifico de la entrega del jesuita a los demás, que nos sigue acompañando a todos en cada reunión, a nuestro compañero Eduardo Barrios, S.J., por su constante ejemplo y dedicación hacia nosotros, a Pedro Haber y su esposa, Esther, que tanto esfuerzo, felicidad, y cariño han puesto de manera incondicional en la organización de cada una de las reuniones, a todos los amigos y compañeros que colaboran activamente en el éxito de estas celebraciones y especialmente a cada una de las esposas de los antiguos alumnos que con su constante soporte y estímulo hacen posible estos días tan alegres... Un abrazo bien fuerte de parte de Marilú y en el mio propio a todos los que fueron alumnos de nuestro querido Colegio de Dolores.

Silvestre Aguilar

Dallas, Texas

27 de Agosto del 2006

En Belen Jesuit Domingo, 16 de julio, 2006

Padre Eduardo Barrios, S.J. celebrando misa en la capilla de Belen Jesuit

Silvestre Aguilar disfrutando del almuerzo en Belen Jesuit

Eddy y Olga Alvarez, Saba y Rafael Millares en la capilla de Belen Jesuit

Carta Abierta

Class of 1996 10 YEAR REUNION

Trump International Resort

Saturday, July 22, 2006

Tony Rivas and guest, Paul Alcázar, Mr. and Mrs. Carlos Maristany, Mr. and Mrs. Blas Cueto, Hiroki Kurenuma

Mrs. Robert Souto, Mrs. Oliver Benitez, Mrs. Carlos Rodriguez, Mrs. Gabriel Dieppa

Ramon Usategui and guest, Frankie and Marlene Ruiz

Gianni Perez and guest, Ramon Usategui, René Dominguez

Tony Rivas and guest, Mr. and Mrs. José Toledo, Gabriel Dieppa, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Souto

Mrs. Oliver Benitez, Carlos González and guest

Class of 1996

Trump International Resort Saturday, July 22, 2006

Roger Morales, Gabriel Dieppa, Oliver Benitez, Tony Rivas, Hiroki Kurenuma

Armando Vázquez, Fernando Aguel, Danny Peña, Alex Paredes

Jorge Calienes, Jorge Menéndez

Javier Aviñó, Armando Vázquez, Danny Peña, Frankie Ruiz, Alex Zequeira

Tony Rivas, Alex Arrieta, Oliver Benitez, Carlos Rodriguez

Mrs. Menéndez, Javier Siervo and guest

Mr. and Mrs. Jose Ceide looking at the Class of 1996’s Graduation Pictures

Pedro Hernández, Roberto Souto, Carlos Maristany

10 YEAR REUNION

Belen Jesuit

Sunday, July 23, 2006

Mr. and Mrs. Blas Cueto, Mr. and Mrs Carlos Maristany, Alex Paredes, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Schwartz, Roberto Souto, Mr. and Mrs. Gabriel Dieppa, Mr. and Mrs. Charlie Castillo

Pedro Hernández and guest, Javier Sobrado, Luis Arrazola, Daniel Alonso

The Toledo and Schwartz Families

José Toledo and son

Alex Galán, Ramon Barcia and guest

Tony Rivas and guest, Ricky Reyes and guest

Mr. and Mrs. Carlos Maristany, Mr. and Mrs. Blas Cueto, Mr. and Mrs. Gabriel Dieppa

Class of 2005 - One Year Reunion

Belen Jesuit

Saturday, June 10, 2006

For years at el Colegio de Belén in Havana graduates did not have to wait five or ten years to gather together to celebrate a reunion - one year was enough! This past summer the tradition began again as the Belen Alumni Association hosted the Class of 2005 for their One-Year Reunion. 12th grade Theology teacher Pablo Taquechel and Spiritual Director Fr. Willie GarciaTuñon led the seniors through the event. Starting with breakfast then a mass in the Belen chapel, students later spent some time sharing their experiences one year out of their alma mater. The day concluded with some pick up basketball in the Goizueta Athletic Center and lunch.

a reflection over their

Theology teacher Pablo Taquechel leads the Class of 2005 in

first year out of Belen.

Jonathan Hermida drives to the basket

The Class of 2005 - Reunited One Year Later

Raymond Del Castillo presents the first reading

Fr. Willie Garcia-Tuñón, S.J. ‘87 celebrates mass in Belen’s Chapel

College List

CLASS OF 2006 GRADUATES

CLASS OF 2006 COLLEGE ACCEPTANCE/MATRICULATION

Academy of Art University (1)

Babson College (1)

Boston College (4)

Boston University (2)

The Catholic University of America (5)

University of Central Florida (5)

Colorado College (1)

Cornell University (1)

The Culinary Institute of America (1)

Dartmouth College (1)

Duke University (1)

Emory University (2)

Florida International University (44)

Florida State University (2)

University of Florida (9)

Fordham University (2)

Furman University (1)

Georgetown University (1)

Georgia Institute of Technology (1)

Johns Hopkins University (1)

Le Moyne College (2)

Loyola University Chicago (2)

Loyola University New Orleans (3)

Marquette University (2)

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (1)

Miami Dade College (3)

University of Miami (17)

New York University (1)

Northwestern University (2)

University of Notre Dame (2)

Oxford College of Emory University (2)

Pennsyvania State University (1)

Princeton University (2)

St. Louis University - Madrid (1)

Samford University (1)

Santa Fe Community College (2)

Southern Methodist University (1)

Spring Hill College (1)

St. John’s University (1)

University of Tennessee - Knoxville (1)

Union College (1)

United States Air Force Academy (1) Villanova University (1)

Al Fondo: El escudo del Colegio de Belén en el Gaston Hall de Georgetown University

CLASS OF 2006 COMMENCEMENT EXERCISES

Excerpts from Valedictorian Address

Fernando Aran ‘06

I’d like to welcome all of you to the Graduation of a very special class. The class of 2006 was part of many firsts in Belen history and every member of the class brought new, incredible talents to the table. This year the senior class was very united and this unity was the reason for our success during the year. The school saw a new facelift for the Vincam, its first district title in football along with finishing up as regional runner up, an amazing senior skit, a great talent show during tómbola exhibiting the vast musical talents of the senior class, its first regional championship in swimming and a finish as state runner up, along with many other great accomplishments. As we all took part in these activities we grew even closer together, but in the blink of an eye it had all passed us by without a chance to realize what we had done or thank those people that helped us get there.

First, on behalf of the Class of 2006 I’d like to thank the teachers. Belen is unlike any other place in the world. Nowhere else do you get a combination of teachers, students, and administrators that bring so much to the table. Thank you, to all our teachers and administrators. Our coaches also go beyond the call of duty to make Belen excel in sports. Thank you, to all our coaches.

Now, to the people sitting in the audience – our parents. You have given so much to us our entire lives, yet sometimes we forget to thank you. If it was not for you, we would never have enrolled in Belen. We may have wished a cruel and unusual punishment for you at first, when we were forced into a new environment with little or no friends and a new concept: the dreaded, the hairy and the terrifying three syllable word – Studying.

But we now understand that you too were making a sacrifice. You could have enrolled us at the neighborhood public high school. This would have been much easier for you too, but it was your commitment to us, our futures, our education, our spiritual formation, that made you embark on the Belen Journey with us. We watched you make financial sacrifices, put one and a half million miles on your cars driving us to and from school, games, parties, staying up with us to help us with projects. Even if we didn’t say it every day, today we say “Thank You” to you. You put us on the right course and we will try to follow in your footsteps so that we can have a promising future ahead of us.

Para nuestros abuelos - Les queremos dar las gracias por todo lo que han hecho por nosotros. En la cocina son los maestros y nos preparan la ropa vieja, bistec empanizado, y los frijoles negros más exquisitos que hay en el mundo. Ustedes nos han cuidado, nos han guiado con su sabiduría, y nos han enseñado mucho de nuestra herencia y pasado. Los queremos mucho.

There are some valuable things that we have learned at Belen that we will take with us and cherish the rest of our lives. The first of these is, that Strength and Hope, are found within God and our friends. From the sixth grade on, we learned that when we were overwhelmed with work and we felt like we couldn’t go anymore, there was hope and strength inside of us that we never knew we had. That strength and hope was found within God and our friends.

As we leave Belen and go off to college, we will take all of these valuable lessons and your love with us. We will go many places and see many things. I hope that 10, 20, and even 50 years from now when I ask you guys to tell me that your alright, you respond with an affirmative “yeah, everything is alright”. Only one thing is certain; tomorrow will come with new daunting challenges, but the lessons that we have learned, the friendships that we have made, the faith that we have developed and the love of our families, will allow us to take on those challenges and succeed. I wish you the best!

KNIGHT CENTER - MIAMI, FLORIDA

WEDNESDAY, MAY 24, 2006

Excerpts from the Alumni Address

Roberto Borbolla ‘56

It feels great to be here for your graduation, 50 years after my own graduation at the Colegio de Belén in Cuba.

I would like to share with you a few testimonies from my classmates during these past 50 years:

Jose Medina, in a letter to our Alumni Association in Cuba, in 1960, from the University of Georgetown, wrote: “When you study abroad, you confirm that the education you received in Belen is the best foundation that you can have in life. It is now, that we know how grateful we have to be to Belen”.

Another, Vicente Estrada, in his book titled “In a Constant State of Becoming”, wrote: “A long list of people touch our lives in a meaningful way …. However, there is a much shorter list of those who have entered my life at levels that truly matter: my wife, my father, and the Jesuits and teachers of Colegio de Belen. There has been nothing more normative or formative in my life than my eight years in Belen”.

Next month, our Class of 1956 will be celebrating our golden anniversary. Fifty-nine classmates and their families will relive those unforgettable moments we shared in Belen, and that still, keep us together.

We have classmates living in Germany, Spain, Venezuela, Argentina, Mexico, Puerto Rico, and all over the United States. Some are still living in Cuba, but due to the political situation there, are unable to join us. Unfortunately, 19 classmates have passed away, and we always remember them in our reunions. The biggest group lives here in Miami, where we have yearly dinners and monthly luncheons.

We have shared good moments and helped each other in bad times. Like when we had to begin a new life, in a new country and we had to start all over again. I arrived from Cuba, at 39 years old, after being a political prisoner there. The morals and values I received from my family and the Jesuits, helped me turn something very difficult, into a testimony of faith, and MEN FOR OTHERS. With the support of my family and friends, and my wife, Carmen, who is here with me tonight, I obtained all my licenses and had a successful career.

1.

Tonight, you reach a very important moment in your lives. Now, you can select what you want to study, to achieve, what you want to do with your future. You go into this new phase with great tools: the education you have received, and a great network behind you, our Alumni Association. Try to keep in communication with your friends from Belen and participate in our Alumni Association.

You can be proud of Belen, but you have to make the Belen Community proud of what you will accomplish in life, and what you will give back to your Jesuit family. Congratulations and best wishes for your future.

OPPOSITE PAGE:

(Top) Class of 2006 Valdectorian Fernando Aran addresses the hundreds in attendance at the Commencement Exercises (Center) Daniel Hanlon and Alex Trueba moments after receiving their diplomas (Bottom) Members of the Class of 2006 celebrating after the ceremony

CURRENT PAGE:

(Top) Roberto Borbolla ‘56, receives the class of 2006 banner from Student Council President Daniel Hanlon (Center) School Principal Fr. Marcelino Garcia, S.J. presents Daniel Hanlon ‘06 his dipolma (Bottom) Roberto and Carmen Rosa Borbolla congratulate Daniel Hanlon after the ceremony

The Alumni Association welcomes our newest members, the Class of 2006

School Notes

HIGH SCHOOL HONOR

The Catholic School Honor Roll has named Belen Jesuit, for the second consecutive year, one of the top 50 Catholic high schools in the U.S. Belen Jesuit was recognized in two categories, Overall Academic Excellence and Civic Education. Belen Jesuit was the only Catholic School in Florida to be considered “Highly Selective” in its admission policy, a testament to the laborious work of the Admissions Department continuing efforts to “strive for the very best”. For more information on this honor roll, visit their website at www.chshonor.org

HOMECOMING UNDER THE LIGHTS

The Belen Jesuit Varsity Football Team closed the 2006 regular season in dramatic fashion by facing off against Archbishop Carroll Friday, November 3rd at Belen Jesuit’s de la Cruz Stadium. The Homecoming game was the first time the school hosted a night game on campus. Over 2,300 fans were in attendance, to see the Wolverines (9-1) defeat the visiting Archbishop Carroll Bulldogs 17 to 14. With less than 5 minutes in the 4th quarter, Andrew Fernandez ‘07 scored his second touchdown of the game giving the home team a 3 point lead. The Bulldogs had one last chance to send the game into overtime but a 35 yard field goal attempt sailed wide left to end the game.

CLOSE-UP 2007: UP CLOSE

For 32 straight years, Belen Jesuit students have participated in the Close-Up Foundation’s week-long program in Washington DC, The Foundation, established in 1970, is a nonprofit, nonpartisan civic education organization, informs, inspires, and empowers students and teachers to exercise the rights and accept the responsibilities of citizens in a democracy.

41 participants including Alexis Zequeira ‘90 and Br. Christian Saenz, S.J. ‘95 took part in this years activities. which included visiting Arlington Memorial Cemetery for the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknowns,

logging flight time at the National Air and Space Museum’s air combat simulators, and be one of the first Students at the school to see the United States Air Force Memorial dedicated in October 2006.

Although the trip to the nation’s capital was highlighted by lower than normal temperatures, Belen was warmly received on Capitol Hill by U.S. Representatives Mario Diaz-Balart (R, FL) and Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R, FL) for Q&A and a tour of the Capitol.

STUDENTS MARCHING FOR LIFE

16 Belen students, accompanied by Fr. Willie GarciaTuñón, S.J. ‘87, participated in the March for Life also in Washington DC.

The annual event attracts more than 150,000 people to our nation’s capital to protest the legalization of abortion and defend the right to life. The school’s juniors and seniors who have shown interest in Pro-Life activities throughout their High School years were greeted by His Excellency Auxiliary Bishop Felipe Estevez at the January 22nd event.

PERMISSION TO COME ABOARD

Our students, along with the rest of South Florida were proud to be a part of The Commissioning of the USS GRIDLEY DDG101 on February 10th, 2007. This was the first time a US Navy warship has been commissioned in Miami.

The new, guided missile destroyer is a marvel of modern technology and naval prowess. Her young, talented crew representing 45 different states and 10 different countries is characteristic of the diversity found in our great country.

The USS GRIDLEY’s Commanding Officer, CDR Steve Shinego, raised in Hallandale, Florida. visited the school weeks earlier along with Commissioning Committee Chairman, Raul Mas Canosa ‘75, to prepare the students for a tour of the naval vessel.

School Notes

DOCTOR, DOCTOR

Belen Jesuit’s “Future Doctors of America” visited Mercy Hospital in Miami on February 22nd to observe the daily routine of those involved in the medical profession.

More than a dozen students were accompanied by faculty advisor Shyara Lara during the day-long field trip. Several members of the club stated their visit to the hospital solidified their desire to become physicians.

ARTISTIC ACHIEVEMENT

The Olga M. & Carlos Saladrigas Gallery was proud to exhibit the works of an award winning CubanAmerican artist and Belen Jesuit Alum.

“Emilio Falero, A Retrospective” (From 1963 to Present) ran from November 4th to December 15th 2006. Falero’s work is included in the ‘Outside Cuba’ exhibition, the ‘Miami Generation’ traveling exhibition and the ‘Cuba-USA: The First Generation’ traveling exhibition. Several works from the class of 1966 Belen Grad is in the permanent collections of the Lowe Art Museum at the University of Miami and the Miami Dade Public Library System, among others.

The Saladrigas Art Gallery is now the temporary home for a brand new exhibit called Ileana Ferrer Govantes A Retrospective: Images of Yesterday and Today (Imágenes de Ayer y de Hoy). The show runs through Wednesday, April 18, 2007 and is open to the public.

THE HEAD OF THE CLASS

Measuring academic achievement and excellence can be a difficult task. In most cases schools and other institutions will use standardized tests as a bench mark for success. Students at Belen Jesuit take the PSAT and PLAN as a sophomore and junior in preparation for the SAT and ACT respectively. Congratulations to the following Belen students who have been named Finalists in the 2007 National Merit Scholarship Competition.

James E. Darmody, Rafael G. Romero,

Paul Ingelmo, Daniel E. Urgelles

These seniors are among 16,000 of the highest scoring students in the nation and will be considered for one of the 8,200 Merit Scholarships. We, at Belen Jesuit wish them well as they continue in the competition.

We also congratulate the Belen Jesuit students who were named Commended Students. They are among about 34,000 students so designated. Although they will not advance further in the 2007 Merit Scholarship competition, the School is very proud of their achievement in this highly competitive competition.

Academic excellence has been a cornerstone of the Belen Jesuit education in both Cuba and Miami. For decades, Belen Jesuit as a school and its students have been recognized locally, nationally and even internationally for their exceptional work. This year was no different, as a flood of accolades has been bestowed on the School as well as its faculty and students.

The Toyota Community Scholars Program awards 100 renewable scholarships valued at $10,000 to $20,000, payable over four years. The program recognizes academic excellence and rewards young people who actively participate in community service. We are allowed one nominee. Winners will be announced in April, 2007. Congratulations and best wishes to Peter Cruz-Gordillo ‘07.

The Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Youth Program is designed to motivate and develop future leaders. The HOBY nominee must be a high school sophomore with demonstrated leadership qualities. After being named at the school level, ambassadors are chosen to represent the region at the state and national level. Congratulations to Belen Jesuit’s nominee, Eric Donado ‘09 and the alternate: Michael Martinez ‘09.

And one final congratulations to Belen Jesuit’s nominee for the Principal’s Leadership Award, Daniel E. Urgelles ‘07

For more information on your Alma Mater, Log on to www.belenjesuit.org anytime 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Belen celebrates two state

Swimming captures first State Championship

By: Richard Bandrich ‘07

On Thursday November 2nd, the swimming team started the state championship trend by winning the FHSAA Class 2A State Championship meet at the Fort Lauderdale Aquatic Complex with a score of 255 points. This was a special win because it was the first time in school history that the swimming team won a state championship and it was the first title in Miami-Dade County in 34 years.

The swim team performed consistently the whole year staying undefeated and winning the Dade-County, District and Regional Championships. All enroute to the State Meet where they did nothing less than dominate.

Winning all three relay events and having one individual state champion in Carlos Araque ‘08, who won the 100 breaststroke by a slim margin of .07 seconds.

“At the end of the race I thought to myself this is it, I either take this guy or let all the hours of practice I put in go to waste. I just wanted it more.” said Araque.

Belen beat the second place team Satellite by 66 points due in large part to Araque who not only won individually but was a part of each relay team. The three relay teams were the 200 yard medley relay in which the Wolverines won with a time of 1:39.73. The members of this squad were Patrick Arenson ‘08, Araque, Sebastian Orozco ‘08 and Pablo Morejon ‘09. The 200 yard freestyle relay was won in 1:28.78 and the members were Araque, Morejon, Orozco and Andres Semauchi ‘08 and lastly the 400 yard freestyle relay was won in 3:16.37 with members Orozco, Araque, Morejon and captain Raymond Zomerfeld ‘07.

Other points came from top finishers Zomerfeld who finished fourth in the 200 IM and Morejon who placed fourth in the 50 yard freestyle. The 100 yard butterfly was a big point grabber for the Wolverines with Cantera Lopez ‘08 finishing fourth and Orozco finishing sixth giving Belen 28 points in just one race. Also making contributions throughout the season was Carlos Omaña ‘11.

After easily taking care of the competition at regionals, the Wolverines knew they had a strong chance of winning states. “We were very confident going into states that we would win.” said Orlando Alvarez ‘07. Win is what they did as they got Head Coach Kirk Peppas his first team state championship team in eighteen years of coaching.

“This was a long time coming. Eighteen years of close calls and dedication to lead up to this breakthrough season.” said Peppas. The coach may not have to wait too long for his next title as this year’s team is only losing two seniors who scored at states.

“We have a real good chance for next year, most of us are coming back from the relays so all we need to do is find one replacement.” said Araque.

Team Captain Zomerfeld helped keep the team together during states. “I didn’t swim well, but I kept my mind straight and kept the focus of the group together.” This group focus paid off in the end as the Wolverines brought home the gold.

Program Highlights: Junior High - Record 2-2; 2nd Place Independent Schools Meet and 3rd Place at Dade County.

Carlos Araque ‘08

championships in one week

Cross Country: Dramatic finale to successful season

By: Conor McCarthy ‘07

It was at Dade City in Little Everglades Ranch, 11 years since the last cross country State Championship on the 11th day of the 11th month at 11 o’clock AM in lane 11 where the Wolverines started the race to become State Champions. The team was led by a heroic performance from Guillermo Echarte ‘08 who had a comfortable lead coming into the final stretch when 150 yards before the finish line his legs began to give out and he struggled to try and keep himself moving forward as he fell and picked himself up four times.

“I just saw my season pass before my eyes and that both my team and individual titles were going to be lost” said Echarte.

Echarte ended up finishing in 12th place (16:57) in the 5 kilometer race, a far cry from the number one spot he deserved as he was carried away to the medical tent where he was given an IV. It was during this time after the race where there was uncertainty whether the Wolverines had won or not. For an agonizing 20 minutes the team waited until the word came from the scoreboard area that they had won.

Now is when the celebrating began as many hugs were given and tears of joy were shed as the team made its way to the award ceremony to receive their trophy and medals. The Wolverines won the meet with a total score of 82 points beating Hernando 98, Naples 158 and Tampa Jesuit 171.

The state title was due in large part to Echarte being able to get up and finish and the rest of the team, who showed what pack running is all about as they all had strong performances. Conor McCarthy ‘07 finished in 14th place (17:00) followed by Javier Zamparelli ‘07 in 22nd place (17:18), Michael Cruz ‘08 26th place (17:23), Jason Oliver ‘07 28th place (17:26), David Otero ‘07 31st place (17:26) and Larry Duran ‘09 who finished in 39th place (17:45).

The Wolverines started the season ranked number one in class 2A just ahead of 2005 champions Tampa Jesuit. During mid season the Wolverines lost their number one ranking after losing to Tampa Jesuit at Flrunners.com Invitational. It wasn’t until the end of the season after the Wolverines had an impressive win at regionals that they regained their number one ranking just going into States. Tampa Jesuit turned out not to be a factor at States as it was Hernando that gave the Wolverines a run for their money.

In the 38 consecutive years that the Cross Country team has qualified for the state meet, the Wolverines have finished as state champs once and state runner-ups 7 times. Belen also has more top 10 finishes in the past 38 years, more than any other school in the state.

This team made history by not only being the second cross country team to win a State Championship but also because it was the second State Title for the school in a little over a week.

Head coach Frankie Ruiz ‘96 who was a runner on the 1995 team said “This was an actual team win; in what many people feel is an individual sport. The race ended up being the ultimate example of why cross country is a team sport.”

Guillermo Echarte ‘08

Scorebook

2006 Spring & Fall Belen Jesuit Athletics

Baseball

Team Record: 18-11 (District Runner-Up)

Coaches: Tony Meilan, Andres Blanco, and Gilbert Meilan Player Highlights: Mauricio Rodriguez pitched a shutout game versus Cardinal Gibbons in the Regional Quarterfinals. Program Highlights: Junior Varsity 17-6, Junior High 18-3-2, 6th Grade 16-4 (ACC Champions)

Tennis

Team Record: 12-3

Coach: Pat Collins

Player Highlights: Rolan St. Louis - #4 Singles - District Runner-Up Program Highlights: Team hosted Stake Jesuit from Houston, TX. Coach Collins recorded his 300th career victory. Junior High 3-1

Track & Field

Team Record: 22-0 (District Champs, & Regional Runner-up, 7th Place in the State)

Coaches: Arthur Foster, Sr., Carlos Barquin, Ary Montalvo, and Billy Gil ‘05 Individual Highlights: Andrew Jacobs - 3rd in the state for 300 Meter Hurdles, Peter Peterman, School Record in the Triple Jump. Program Highlights: Fr. Ripoll Relay Champions Junior High, ACC, Tri-County Champions and State Runner-Up, 6th Grade (ACC Champions)

Water Polo

Team Record: 16-6

Coach: Luis Martinez

Player Highlights: 1st Team All County Oscar Fonseca ‘06, Julio Lopez - Most Goals in a season (65) and Oscar Fonseca - Most Goals in a game (15)

Program Highlights: District Runner-Up, Junior High 3-4

For up to date schedules, scores and results, visit: www.belenjesuit.org/studentlife/athletics/athletics.htm

Volleyball

Team Record: 3-11

Coach: Fernanda

Downey

Program Highlights:

Defeated Coral Gables

High in 3 straight sets. Junior Varsity 9-3, Junior High 4-6

ACC All Stars Chris Palomo and Valentin Arenas.

Football

Team Record: 9-2 (District Runner-Up)

Coaches: Richard Stuart, German Delgado ‘90, Eddie Delgado ‘91, Augusto Venegas ‘85, Tamaris Wooten.

Player Highlights: All County - Frank Estevez ‘07, Gus Dequesne ‘07, Gregory Fontela ‘07, Andrew Fernandez ‘07

Program Highlights: Junior Varsity 4-2, Junior High 6-0

MARK YOUR CALENDARS

COLUMBUS vs. BELEN JESUIT FOOTBALL GAME

AUGUST 24, 2007 and

COLUMBUS vs. BELEN JESUIT BASKETBALL GAME

JANUARY 18, 2008

Note to Alumni: Please note that these dates are tentative and may change. Check the Belen NetCommunity at http://netcommunity.belenjesuit.org/netcommunity or contact the Alumni Office at alumni@belenjesuit.org for dates and times

Golf

Team Record: 7-2 (District Runner-up, Finished 3rd in Regionals)

Coach: Franz Rakusa

Player Highlights: Ricardo Escobar ‘07 and Richard Massa ‘08 named second team All Dade. 3rd Team All-Dade

Alfredo Rodriguez ‘08

Junior Varsity 5-2

Flashback

1956 Colegio de Belén Swim Team

Del Ecos de Belén 1956: El conjunto belemita de las tres categorías en natación, cuya actuación sobrepasó las esperanzas y sorprendió a los críticos. Fué un verdadera sorpresa los cinco primeros lugares y los siete segundos que alcanzamos en las únicas competencias completas en que participamos este curso en la F.I.A.C. Nadie contaba con nuestro equipo como el “conjunto a derrotar”... Pero nos levantamos con los laureles. En resumen, nuestros nadadores y su entrenador Bebo Smith se merecen una calurosa felicitación por el esfuerzo rendido y sobre todo, el éxito alcanzado en el balance total. ¡Felicidades!

Salvador Bonilla-Sosa ‘31

Miguel Olmo ‘38

Pablo Pérez Baquedano ‘39

Luis Echeverría Capó ‘40

Milestones

In Memoriam - Alumni

Juan Ruach ‘41

Jacinto Cofiño ‘44

Mario Campa ‘47

Alberto Chisholm ‘47

Juan Troitiño ’47

Carlos Cuartas ‘48

Carlos de la Uz ‘48

Ramón Quiñones ‘48

Luis Cuadrado ‘49

Gonzalo Cima ’53

Javier Lescano ‘54

Enrique Cepero ‘91

In Memoriam - Family and Friends of Alumni & the Association

John Aguire, father-in-law of Armando Incera ‘73 and Jorge Pereira ‘76

José Alvarez, father of Joey ‘00

Antonia Maria Arrojo, grandmother of Jose Jr. ‘91

Mercedes Arvesú, sister of Antonio ’42, Manuel ’46, and Fr. Federico S.J.

Alberto Cardelle, father of Alberto Jr. ’82 and Carlos ‘91

Joaquin Casajuana, father of Joaquin Jr. ‘76

Célida Díaz, mother of Gabino ’56

Estrella Fernández Gaytán, mother of Manuel López ‘44

Juan Flores, father of Juan Luis ‘70 and grandson of Juan Ignacio ‘00

Jose A. Gamoneda, grandfather-in-law of Armando Incera ‘73 and Jorge Pereira ‘76

Humberto J. González Sr., cousin of Manuel Carbonell and uncle of Ricardo ‘62 and Luis ‘64 González Carbonell

Manuela Gutiérrez, mother of Manuel ’46, Fausto ’47, and Miguel ‘49

Mother of Jorge Laffite ‘57

Avelina Marquinez, mother-in-law of Arturo Baguer ‘55

Rubén Marrero, father of Rubén ’75 and Emilio ‘85

Manuel Ochoa, former Colegio de Belén Professor and former Director of the Belén Choir

Coralito Ortiz, wife of Tito Ortiz, Colegio de Dolores

Mario Parajón, brother of Luis ‘45

Lilia Ramos, mother of Reinaldo Ramos ’58 and grandmother of Reinaldo Ramos ’81

Emilia F. Rasco, widow of Ramon ’40

Diana Rojo, wife of Jose J. Garcia ‘45

Fr. Quito Santiago, S.J., former Alumni Association Director in San Juan, Puerto Rico

Hilda Selem, grandmother of Joseph ‘97 and Alexander ‘01

Justa Zannoni, mother of Mark ‘84

Alberto Camacho ‘40

Alberto se graduó del Colegio de Belén en el curso del 1940 y casi inmediatamente se hizo Congregante en la ACU. Se casó con Silvia San Pedro, hermana del difunto Monseñor Enrique San Pedro, S.J., con la que tuvo en Cuba 10 hijos quienes le regalaron 24 nietos y 8 biznietos. Su nombrete, “El Piojo,” se le pegó de niño porque no tenía gran estatura y era muy rubio y blanco. A pesar del paso de los años, y que creció mucho, se le quedó grabado el nombrete y ningún amigo ya lo llamaba por su verdadero nombre. En Cuba trabajó en el Tribunal de Cuentas como jefe de operaciones, cargo que ocupó hasta su salida al exilio con su esposa y 10 hijos hacia Venezuela, México, y finalmente, Miami. Sus estudios en Ciencias Físico-Matemáticas y el Doctorado en esta materia obtenido en la Universidad de la Habana, le capacitaron para después ocuparse de lo que fue su gran habilidad: la programación en computadoras. Ya comenzó en Cuba a trabajar en esta nueva rama de la ciencia pero fue en la Coca-Cola y en la Pepsi-Cola donde en los Estados Unidos ofreció sus servicios y especialización. Resaltó en dos trabajos apostólicos que le ocuparon muchas horas de su tiempo: El movimiento Familiar Cristiano del cual fue, junto con su esposa Silvia, presidente, y la Asociación de Antiguos Alumnos de los Colegios Jesuitas de Cuba y Miami. En ésta última trabajó intensamente desde 1972 hasta poco tiempo antes de fallecer. Alberto fue un genuino “hombre para los demás” como reza el lema de la Asociación y siempre se mantuvo fiel al compromiso hecho en su Consagración Mariana. Alberto siempre estuvo dispuesto a ayudar y a resolver hábilmente cualquier problema que se le presentara. Su ausencia va a ser muy sentida. Que descanse en paz este buen amigo y servidor fiel.

Thomas B. Jelke ’85 and Rebecca Aparicio

Carlos Cardelle ’91 and Dailene Hernández

Alumni Weddings

Francisco Javier Borbolla ’92 and Yuri Machado

Luis Saladrigas ’93 and Lucy González

Richard Negret ’96 and Samantha Caprio

Michael Coronado ‘99 and Betty Giadas

Francisco J. Garcia ‘00 and Sommer Taylor

Vanessa Núñez, daughter of Carlos ’59 and Maria Núñez, and Aristides de Armas

Carmen Poo, daughter of Ramon ’60 and Estela Poo, and Christopher Kirkland

Stephen Sivyer, grandson of Roberto J. Alsina ’38, and Brittany Norris

Births

Great-grandson of José Olózaga ’46

Kathryn Marie Scorza, great-granddaughter of José M. Alonso ‘48

Lucas Anibal Alvarez and Charlotte Swain Beecher, grandchildren of Anibal R. Porta ‘49

Valeria Alvarez, granddaughter of Manolo Alvarez Cárdenas ‘50

Margaux Lucia, granddaughter of Antonio Moreno de Ayala ’61

Dominic José Ames, grandson of Carlos A. Alvarez ’65 and grandnephew of Fr. Eddy Alvarez, S.J. ‘63

Charles Ricardo Salas, born to Manuel ’85 and grandson of Ricardo Casares ‘61

Gustavo Manuel Aspillaga, born to Carlos ’90 and Annette Aspillaga

Victor Fernández-Abril, born to Aristides ’90 and Patricia Fernández-Abril

Lorenzo De Toro IV, born to Lorenzo III ‘91 and Jannet De Toro and grandson of Lorenzo De Toro II ‘48

Katerina Mari and Ana Laura Cepero, born to Enrique ’91 and Jennifer Cepero

Alejandro Luis Carmona, born to Ricardo ’92 and Zoeanne Carmona

Oscar Manuel Garcia, born to Oscar ‘93 and Melissa Garcia

Javier Felipe Fernández, born to Felipe Jr. ’94 and grandson of Felipe Sr. Dolores ‘57

Baptisms

Clara Teresa Permuy, daughter of Pedro Permuy ‘82

Karina Andrea Santamaria, daughter of Eduardo Santamaria ’82

Isabella Digón, daughter of Benigno Digón ‘86

Olivia Anrrich, daughter of Raphael Anrrich ‘87

Vanesa Andrea Incera, daughter of Raul Incera ’87

Marcos Aurelius González, son of José González ‘87

Camilla Tundidor, daughter of Hector Tundidor ‘87

Andres Garcia-Tuñón, son of Eric Garcia-Tuñón ‘92

Eduardo Alberto Gross, son of Eddie Gross ‘88

Mateo Javier Solórzano, son of José Solórzano ‘89

Please make sure to update the Alumni Office with news from you and your family.

Contact:

via Phone: 786.621.4667 or via E-mail: alumni@belenjesuit.org

Annabella Cardona, daughter of Aldo Cardona ‘90

Luka DeZárraga, son of Fernando DeZárraga ‘90

Gabrielle Kennedy-Ortiz, daughter of José Ortiz ‘90

Gustavo Emilio Ortiz-Petit, son of Ignacio Ortiz-Petit ‘90

Pia Zarraluqui, daughter of Jose Zarraluqui ‘91

Oscar Francisco Calderin, son of Johnny Calderin ‘92

Lucas Gabriel Escala, son of Jorge Escala ‘92

Matthew Mena, son of Eddie Mena ‘92

Susanna Maria Vázquez, daughter of Juan Vázquez ‘92

Sophia Toledo, daughter of José Toledo ‘96

Por favor pongan al dia a la oficina de Antiguos Alumnos con noticias de Uds. y de sus familias.

Como Contactar: por Teléfono: 786.621.4667 o por Correo Electrónico: alumni@belenjesuit.org

Alumni News & Notes

Hans Gengler ‘56, his wife, Doris and his daughter, Gisela with Roberto ‘56 and Carmen Rosa Borbolla in Nuremberg, Germany - October 2006.

Former and current Belen Jesuit students gathered on November 18th, 2006 to watch Princeton defeat Dartmouth 27-17, and take the Ivy League football championship. 4 Belen Jesuit Grads played in the game; Princeton University’s Chris Gueits ’03, Fernando Aran ’06 and Carlos Roque ’06, along with Dartmouth University’s Peter Pidermann ’06.

(Pictured Right to Left) Frank Estevez ’07, Eddie Delgado ’91, Robert Hernandez ’05, Fernando Aran ’06, Carlos Roque ’06, Jon Erik Alvarez ’06, Andres Roque ’04, Chris Gueits ’03, Danny Hernandez ’03, Peter Pidermann ’06, Coach Richard Stuart, Harry Blustein ’06, Felice Gorordo ’01, Guillermo Alvarez ’07.

Byron Miguel, Salvador Subirá, Ramón Ma. Rodriguez, y Orlando Alvarez del curso 1955 frente a una replica del avión que volaron los Hermanos Wright en Kitty Hawk, NC.

Jorge Méndez ’56, su esposa Nina y todos sus hijos y nietos lucen sus trajes típicos asturianos en la fiesta anual del pueblo de Cadavedo, Asturias, España, Agosto 2006.

Belen Alumni gather in Princeton, NJ for the 2006 Ivy League Football Championship.

Alumni News & Notes

Jose Fernandez ‘99 and his mother, Angie, (Belen Faculty Member) on his first day at the Miami Offices of Holland & Knight LLP

Hermano Isidro Hernández, S.J., profesor en Dolores y el Colegio de Belén, celebra sus 80 años de Jesuita en León, España.

If you want to see your photos printed in the next issue of Traditions, please send them with a brief description to the Belen Alumni Office by mail or you can submit them via e-mail at alumni@belenjesuit.org

Juan Garcia-Tuñón ‘67 con su esposa Sue y sus hijos J.P. y Nick en su casa en Pennsyvania

Si quieren ver sus fotos impresas en los próximos números del Boletín de los Antiguos Alumnos, manden sus fotos con una breve descripcion a nuestra oficina o por correo electrónico a alumni@belenjesuit.org

Desde Illinois, Antonio ‘59 and Virginia Navarrete con sus hijos y nietos.

Alumni News & Notes

Carlos Delatorre ‘48 and his wife celebrating over five decades of wedded bliss in South Carolina

U.S. Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, with legistlative aides Edward Acevedo ‘01 (left) and Ariel Fernandez ‘99 on a visit to Belen Jesuit.

¡ Congratulations - Felicidades !

· Francisco Javier Garcia, Son of Nicolás ‘42 and Celia Garcia, received the Sacrament of Holy Orders and was ordained a priest in Denver, Colorado.

· Frank Mora ‘82 has co-authored a new book entitled “Paraguay and the United States: Distant Allies”, a comprehensive study on the relationship between the two countries

· Jorge de la Pedraja ‘82 was named President of the Miami Society of Plastic Surgeons and opened his own private practice in Coral Gables, Florida.

· Ray Castellanos ‘90, partner and managing member of G.C. Homes, was elected to the Doctors Hospital Foundation board of directors and will also serve as a member of the Baptist Health Foundation Board.

· Jose Fernández, Erimar Von der Osten, Pablo Rodriguez, Gabriel Caballero, Alexander Sanjenis, and Gerald Del Amo from the Class of 1999, have recently passed the Florida Bar Exam.

· Jesús Suárez ‘02 and current UF Law Student completed the Justice Studies Center of the Americas Program in Santiago, Chile and profiled in FlaLaw Magazine.

· Javier Garcia-Tuñón ‘04 ran hurdles and was part of the Florida State Seminoles 2006 Outdoor Track & Field National Championship Team.

The Jiménez Family: Three Generations Strong!

UF’s Jose Garcia ‘03 & FSU’s Javier Cruz ‘04

Victor Arrieta ‘95 & Javier Garcia-Tuñón ‘04 at the FSU Relays

Lili Beecher, grandaughter of Anibal Porta ‘49, holds on tight to her little sister, Charlotte.

http://netcommunity.belenjesuit.org/netcommunity

Join the over 1600 Alumni who have already reconnected to their Alma Mater and their classmates by joining the Belen NetCommunity.

Inscribanse en el NetCommunity de Antiguos Alumnos a traves del internet.

Membership has its privileges...

• Online Directory - Search the dynamic online database for friends and classmates.

• Class Notes - List important news and events for your classmates to see.

• Message Board - Share your thoughts or get your questions answered by other NetCommunity members.

• Donate - Allows you to support Belen Jesuit through online donations. You can even pay your yearly membership dues now online!

• Events - Registering and paying for events was never easier. You can also see a gallery of past alumni events possibly including your own reunion!

• Services - Visit the MAGIS homepage and get involved with the Alumni Community Service Programs, search or post on an active Job Bank, and find out who represents you as a Class Delegate.

• My Profile - Keeping current contact with over 5500 alumni is a monumental task. With the “My Profile” feature you can update all of your information with the click of a button.

The Alumni Association congratulates the Class of 1956 on their 50th Anniversary

¿Tienes algún Ecos o Vincam de Belén?

La Oficina de Antiguos Alumnos necesita aumentar nuestros archivos de material de Belen de Cuba y de Miami. Por favor ponte en contacto con nosotros si quieres donar o prestar algo que podamos usar y despues devolverte.

Telefono: 786.621.4661 o Correo Electrónico: alumni@belenjesuit.org

Belen Alumni Association of Jesuit Schools from Cuba and Miami Alumni Office 500 Southwest 127 Avenue Miami, Florida 33184

Do you have an old Echoes or Vincam from Belen?

The Alumni Office needs your help to continue to grow our archives of Belen material from Cuba and Miami. Please contact us with anything you would be willing to donate or lend to the Association to reproduce and return.

Phone: 786.621.4661 or E-mail: alumni@belenjesuit.org

ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID Miami, Florida Permit No. 1277