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Collegiate Spring 2015

A New President at De La Salle

In This Issue On the Cover

Earlier this year, the De La Salle Board of Trustees selected John Knight as the next President of De La Salle Collegiate. Knight is the school’s fourth President, and its first lay President. Br. Joseph Jozwiak served as the first President, during the 2001-02 school year; Br. Bob Carnaghi handled Presidential duties from 2002 - 2011, and is the school’s President Emeritus; Br. Tom Lackey has led the school as President since 2011, and will be going on a year-long Sabbatical before continuing in as yet-undetermined Lasallian ministry. See story on pages 8 - 9. Cover photo: Senior Josh Colina, senior Alec Kreinbring, Br. Bob Carnaghi, John Knight, Br. Tom Lackey, and junior Quinton Glaspie. At right: Seniors Alec Kreinbring, Josh Colina, Billy Presley, and Alex Chapp, along with juniors Quinton Glaspie and Ben Westphal, and senior Charley Bemiss, welcome John Knight to De La Salle in mid-March.

In This Issue

From The President.......................................................3 Christian Brothers’ Dinner............................................4 2015 Dinner Honoree....................................................6 New President................................................................8 Conversation with.......................................................10 Admissions News........................................................12 Whatever Happened To.............................................. 15

Making a Difference....................................................18 Alumni Spotlight.........................................................20 Alumni News..............................................................23 Alumni Events.............................................................26 School News................................................................27 Athletic News..............................................................32 In Memoriam..............................................................36 Behind the Scenes........................................................38

Identification Statement • The Collegiate • Spring 2015 Statement of Frequency: Three Times Per Year Published by De La Salle Collegiate High School Advancement Office 14600 Common Road, Warren, MI 48088 Phone: 586-778-3356 Web: www.delasallehs.com

Collegiate photos provided by MrMack, Vicki Granger, Patrick Studios, Bryan Killingbeck, and Chris Czarnik President ��Br. Thomas Lackey, FSC, ‘65 President Emeritus ��Br. Robert Carnaghi, FSC, SJ ‘48 Principal ��Patrick R. Adams Jr. Director of Advancement �� Christopher Czarnik Director of DLS Alumni �� John C. Monigold, ‘66 Dir. of St. Joe’s Alumni Activities ��Br. Patrick McNally, FSC, SJ ‘55 Assoc. Director of Advancement �� Amy Seiferlein Director of Communications ��Vicki Granger Director of Admissions �� Bill Burkhardt, ‘03 Exec. Assistant of Advancement �� Linda Carnaghi Exec. Assistant of Admissions ��Andrea Mason

From The President Dear Lasallian Family, Last week I finally did something I’ve wanted to do for the past four years. I was an adult leader on a Kairos Retreat. This is likely one of the most important things I have done as President of De La Salle. Kairos is not your traditional retreat program. The word, Kairos, is Greek and means “the opportune time” and has been adapted to mean “God’s time.” When the students, mostly seniors, with a smattering of juniors, entered the Columbiere Retreat Center, they handed over their cell phones, watches, and other electronic devices. No clocks were visible in any room. So what makes Kairos so special? First, it’s the WHO. Students represent every possible group at De La Salle. And everyone, adults and kids, are asked to refrain from being judgmental and to accept each participant as he is. These students bring with them the ups of their lives, and even more so, the downs of their lives: loss, disappointment, hurt, fear, rejection, depression, and loneliness. Another thing which makes Kairos so special is the WHAT. The 47 students were divided into six small groups with a student and an adult leader. It is in these groups that most of the work takes place. Students share their deepest joys and sorrows. They listen. They laugh. They hug. They cry. They love. They comfort. They challenge. And they support each other. Ultimately, they recognize the presence of God in their lives. They become grateful for those who have touched them: parents, siblings, relatives, and friends. Lastly, how Kairos concludes is another special feature. Because it really doesn’t end. The fifty plus of us have shared in something unique which will last all of our lives. We continue to recognize God in our lives and will follow him in our actions and words. We see each other differently and accept each other as unique persons created in the image and likeness of God. We have become men others can lean on. We are able to love each other a bit more. And we will pass on to others what we have experienced and learned. In a positive sense, we have become a “Band of Brothers.” Alas, it is time for me to say “Auf Wiedersehen,” which doesn’t translate as “good-bye” but as “until we meet again.” I thank you for a wonderful four years. And I specially thank the students of De La Salle, who each day remind me of God’s presence and show me God’s friendship. Sincerely,

Brother Thomas Lackey FSC President

Thirty-Fourth Annual The 34th Annual Christian Brothers’ Dinner Thursday, April 30, 2015 at Penna’s of Sterling Cocktails at 6 p.m. • Dinner at 7:30 p.m. Tickets $200 per person • $225 at the door Purchase tickets by calling John Monigold at 586.541.6212 or purchase online at www.thePilotHangar.com

The Dinner Committee congratulates 2015 Honoree Thom Lipari.

The Auction

You do NOT have to be physically present at the Dinner to bid on golf and vacation packages, and more, in the Silent Auction. Please check the DLS website at www.delasallehs.com in mid-April for details on how to register at QTEGO, our online auction site. On the QTEGO site, you will find details on each of the more than 100 packages available at the auction. You can make bids online, via your computer or smartphone, and receive notifications via text every time there is a bid on your items. Bidding closes at 9:30 p.m. on April 30.

2015 Committee Members Michael A. Brillati ‘93 Chairman Stephen Brillati ‘93 Anthony Catullo ‘59 Christopher Czarnik Onorio D’Agostini Matt DeAngelis Chris Fett ‘90 Steve Graus ‘74 Tony Lamerato ‘02 Greg Martinko ‘99 John C. Monigold, Sr. ‘66 Michael Ringler Amy Seiferlein Sam Serra Sal Simone ‘74 Ray Skowronski ‘74 Mike Taylor Michael Wasik ‘91

Past Honorees Jim Addy ‘63 John Addy, Jr. ‘34 W Russ Agosta ‘64 Len Brillati W Brothers of the Christian Schools Tony Brune, Sr. ‘38 W Br. Robert Carnaghi, FSC ‘48 SJ Jerry Carnago ‘49 W Julius Cicchini, ‘55 SJ William Cromie ‘35 W Tony DeSantis ‘60 W Rich Dobrzynski ‘60 Bill Fox ‘50 Br. Kevin Gilhooly, FSC W Vincent Goeddeke ‘18 SJ W Jim Gunn ‘56 Br. Bernard Guzewicz, FSC W Rich Jungwirth, ‘52 Br. Tom Lackey, FSC ‘65 Robert J. LeFevre ‘48 W Pete Maceroni ‘58 Tony Mattar ‘50 J.P. McCarthy ‘50 W Br. Pat McNally, FSC ‘55 SJ John C. Monigold ‘66 Anthony W. Muer, Jr ‘39 W Gino Paliaroli ‘55 SJ Br. Xavier Pankovits, FSC ‘60 John Potvin ‘54 Joe Quasarano ‘42 W Roger Rinke ‘47 W Roland Rinke ‘43 Al Schaller ‘55 Justin Schaller ‘53 W Roger Schaller ‘56 Dr. Raymond Skowronski ‘74 Br. George Synan, FSC W Walter Van Den Bossche ‘29 W Br. Lewis Weins, FSC W Mark Wisniewski ‘83 Jerry Zaccardelli ‘75 Paul Zimmer ‘66 W Indicates Deceased

Christian Brothers’ Dinner Remembering the First Christian Brothers’ Dinner During the 1981-82 school year, then Principal Br. Kevin Gilhooly and the Board of Trustees made the decision to buy Holly Middle School from the Warren Woods Consolidated School System. Teachers, students, alumni, and parents would all work diligently during the summer of 1982 to move over 50 years’ worth of textbooks, equipment, and more to the new Common Road campus. However, the Christian Brothers would not be moving. They would continue to live in the Brothers’ House on Glenfield, in Detroit, and commute every day, until a new house could be built.

event the Christian Brothers’ Dinner, and to hold the event at the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club (GPYC). Tickets would be $150 - a hefty price in 1982. Roland said he insisted the price needed to be at that point; otherwise, it would take years to have the funds to build a new house, as the Glenfield property deteriorated.

Brother looked at me and said what have you been drinking?” Roland is happy he was right. After a few years, the dinner outgrew the GPYC, and moved to the Gourmet House in St. Clair Shores. Attendance grew, and in the early 1990’s, the dinner moved to Penna’s of Sterling. Now nearly 1,000 men, including alumni, fathers of current and past students, and other friends of De La Salle are in attendance.

The dinners long ago paid for the new Brothers’ house. Proceeds from the dinner now support the Brothers’ mission of “providing a human and Roland Rinke, (‘43) chats with John Monigold (‘66) Christian education to about the first Christian Brothers’ Dinner. the young, especially Roland Rinke, ‘43, was the poor.” Without the “The committee met at my car one of the alumni who stepped commitment of so many alumni, dealership, at 11 Mile and Van up and met with Br. Kevin. many students would not be Dyke, on several evenings, makRoland had chaired the St. John ing calls from the various phones, able to receive the excellent Hospital Men’s Guild Dinner for encouraging their fellow Pilots education De La Salle offers, several years, and had served nor become “Brothers’ Boys” to attend the dinner,” recalled on the St. John Board. He upon graduation. Roland. suggested a dinner to raise Roland and his late brother He also remembers confidently money for the new Brothers’ Roger, ‘47, were the co-honorees telling Br. Kevin the number who house, and became the in 1992, at the 11th Annual attended would grow from the 125 Chairman of the First Dinner. Christian Brothers’ Dinner. attendees in 1982. “I told Brother He recently recalled those And Roland? that someday we’re going to have initial planning meetings. 1,000 at this dinner. We’re going He’ll be at the 34th. The group decided to call the to outgrow the Yacht Club. And

2015 Dinner Honoree... De La Salle Collegiate High School is pleased to announce the selection of Mr. Thom Lipari as the Honoree for the 34th Annual Christian Brothers’ Dinner. In naming Lipari as the Christian Brothers’ Dinner Honoree, DLS President Br. Tom Lackey said, “Thom showed tremendous leadership on the Board of Trustees. He and his wife Connie have been outstanding supporters of Catholic education.” Thom got involved with De La Salle after his sons Jimmy (‘01), Chris (‘02), and Matt (‘05) - had graduated because of his belief in parochial education. “The big difference seems to be the character building in parochial schools. When the boys come out of De La Salle they have learned things you don’t learn from textbooks. To me that’s the big value. As corny as ‘Builders of Boys, Makers of Men’ may be to some people, it really says it to me. When you go out into the workforce, it’s amazing how many successful people have had a parochial education.”

Thom is a 1968 graduate of Harper Woods Notre Dame High School. Because of the uncertainty about Notre Dame’s future in the late 90’s, Thom and his wife Connie decided to send their sons to De La Salle. (Notre Dame closed in 2005). Thom was invited to join the DLS Board of Trustees in 2007, and served two, three-year terms, before going off the Board in 2013. While on the Board, Thom served on the Finance and Properties Committees.

Building a Successful Business

After high school, Thom attended Oakland University, pursuing engineering studies, and some business classes. “But I decided I didn’t want to be in an office. I talked my dad into letting me come into the business he had started in 1963.” As just the fourth employee, in 1971, Thom joined a limited operation that made and delivered barbecue sauce. His grandfather would make five gallons of barbecue sauce at a time, and “put together maybe five or six cases a day.” Thom drove an old station wagon to make deliveries - a car that represented the entire “fleet.”

Brother Tom presents Thom Lipari with his award.

Thom says his father Jim wanted to be in the food manufacturing business, and had acquired various pieces of equipment, including a big hundred-gallon tank. Thom thought, “I can’t sit here all day long, and so I took the tank, and hooked it up with some tubing, and was able to put together 200 cases in one week.” During the 1970’s, Tom’s father bought a 3,000 square foot building on 9 Mile, near Jefferson, that included coolers. “That made a difference. At the time, we didn’t sell anything that had to be refrigerated. But a couple years later, we started buying hams and cheeses and got into the deli business.” Today, Thom is President and CEO of Lipari Foods, with nine divisions. Over the years, he worked in every department in order to learn all aspects of the company’s operations. Lipari Foods has nearly 900 employees, and carries 12,000 products; with two recent acquisitions, in Wisconsin and Pennsylvania, Lipari will have 1,000 employees and nearly 16,000 products that range from food to packaging materials. The company’s headquarters is in Warren, just over

Mr. Thomas Lipari ried daughters, who are Regina graduates with young families, work part-time. Laura is in Marketing, while Lisa is in Human Resources. “My goal is to get them (his children) a good solid resume, whether they stay or go.” The family gets together frequently. “We’re able Lisa and James Lipari, daughter Laura Liras, Tom and Connie Lipari, Matt Lipari and to spend quality time his fiancee Casey Cottrell, and daughter Lisa Vandevord and her husband Jason. together because we’re not working with each other eight hours a day. Most family a mile south of De La Salle. The businesses are tough. Growing up, that’s 550,000 square foot site includes a “My hope is that all that we talked about at the dinner huge warehouse. De La Salle will be table. Connie and I made the deliberate Each day, 170 salespeople all over there for decades, decision to keep the business and family the Midwest meet face-to-face with continuing to serve separate.” store owners, and send orders to the community The Value of De La Salle Lipari’s main office. Lipari trucks Thom’s vision for the school is to “keep travel through the night, makand continuing to offering to the next generation what my ing next day deliveries. “What is make a difference boys were able to gain from De La Salle. ordered today gets delivered tomorin people’s lives.” If it isn’t for people doing stuff today, row,” Thom says. “This is really a people ten to fifteen years from now are logistics business. We operate in a not going to benefit. My hope is to make the school tight window.” financially sound.” Thom says the centralized 24/5 operation is “a business model that works for us. It’s difficult to maintain several brick and mortar warehouses and have all those items in every place. You can’t keep it fresh.”

Putting Family First

Thom’s five children work at Lipari Foods. He says they all asked to come into the business. “None of them report to me. They report to my VicePresidents.” Matt is in Accounting, while Jimmy is in the Deli Division, meeting with manufacturers and vendors, and evaluating new items. Chris is a Category Sales Manager in Chicago. Thom’s mar-

Because of their strong belief in parochial education, a few years ago Thom and Connie began funding scholarships at both De La Salle and Regina. “The school has to help kids who can’t pay the tuition. When they’re older, they can help the next generation.” He says, “De La Salle offers some real value to boys fortunate enough to attend the school. My hope is that the school will be there for decades, continuing to serve the community and continuing to make a difference in people’s lives.”

New Leadership for DLS De La Salle Selects First Lay President John M. Knight named Brother Thomas Lackey’s Successor The De La Salle Collegiate Board of Trustees has selected John M. Knight to be the next President of the school. He becomes the first lay President of De La Salle.

President Brother Thomas Lackey, President Emeritus Brother Robert Carnaghi, and Brother Patrick McNally, also interviewed each of the finalists.

Dr. John Moore, Board Chairman, made the announcement in late February 2015.

“I am grateful to the Board of Trustees for the invitation to serve the De La Salle Collegiate community as its next president,” said Knight. “A Lasallian education is a gift from God, and a call to each one of us to continue each day to live out the Gospel message of Jesus to love one another, to be accepting of all, to forgive those who harm us, and to always take care of those who are marginalized in our world. De La Salle Collegiate is a school that has, through its storied history, represented well the spirit of St. John Baptist de La Salle. It is an honor to be joining this exceptional school community.” Knight succeeds Brother Thomas Lackey, who announced in June 2014 that he would be stepping down at the conclusion of the 2014-15 academic year after four years at the helm. Knight’s appointment concludes a seven-month search process led by a subcommittee of the Board of Trustees, and involving stakeholders from within the De La Salle community.

“It is an honor to join this exceptional school community.” As President, Knight will have primary responsibility for reinforcing and amplifying the high school’s Lasallian Mission, achieving the goals of the recently completed strategic plan, and serving as the school community’s faith leader. “We could not be more pleased to announce John Knight’s joining our De La Salle family. He is well-equipped to represent the

Lasallian charism that makes our Catholic educational institution so unique,” said Dr. Moore, a 1975 De La Salle graduate. “We are also excited that he brings his considerable experience to help forward our strategic plan, build upon the great things that are happening right now at our school, and help La Salle to become an ever more important and positive change agent in the greater southeast Michigan community. “We are grateful for the service that Brother Tom has rendered to the school,” Moore added. “As a result of the efforts of Brother Tom, our Principal Pat Adams, the administrative team and the faculty, our school has an impressive list of accomplishments over the past four years. We look forward to working with John, Pat, and the DLS team as they continue in our tradition of building boys and making men.” Knight brings a wealth of experience to his new position, having spent the last 28 years in Catholic secondary education. He has served as school president at both St. Ignatius Prep in San Francisco (CA), and Canisius High School in Buffalo (NY). Prior to moving into school leadership, Knight spent 15 years at University of Detroit Jesuit High School in Detroit in campus ministry and as a teacher and coach.

John M. Knight

Senior Charley Bemiss, John Knight, senior Josh Colina, Principal Patrick Adams, and junior Quinton Glaspie meet informally in mid-March.

A native of Toledo, Ohio, Knight attended St. John’s Jesuit High School in Toledo before earning a Bachelor’s of Education degree from the University of Toledo, and a Master’s of Religious Education from Chicago’s Loyola University. He was a Jesuit seminarian from 1983-89 before leaving the order for a calling to family life. Knight joins De La Salle at a very exciting time. Now in its 89th year, the school’s annual enrollment is consistently near 800. All students in the class of 2014 earned college acceptance, including financial aid awards totaling more than $11 million. In October 2014, the school became just the third private school in the state of Michigan, and the first in Macomb County, to be approved as an International World School for the implementation of the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum. And in November, the De La Salle Pilots won the first state football title in the school’s history.

“I am so happy that John has accepted the position of President of De La Salle,” said Br. Tom Lackey. “His major task is to continue the Lasallian Mission at De La Salle Collegiate. Because of John’s background, he understands Mission. And not only has my support, but the support of the Brothers locally and nationally.” “John will be a tremendous addition to the De La Salle family,” said Br. Bob Carnaghi. “I am ready to help him get acclimated and begin introducing him to our generous alumni, our supportive parents, and to the Brothers’ community. Along with our fine faculty and staff, these are the pillars of De La Salle Collegiate, and together, we will have a strong team.” Knight makes his home in Bloomfield Hills with his wife and two daughters. He will take office, effective July 1, and begin a formal transition on May 1.

“I am pleased for the De La Salle Collegiate community that the Board was able to identify a person of such capability and proven Catholic educational leadership as John Knight. We are grateful to De La Salle’s Board for conducting the presidential search process with broad consultation and with great integrity. The transition of leadership is always a time of some anxiety but also a time of renewed hope, vision and energy. I am confident that the Lasallian educational community at De La Salle is well prepared to welcome and to work with John Knight and the Brothers of the Christian Schools, District of Eastern North America, to continue the excellent work that has been a hallmark of this school throughout its 89 years in metro Detroit.” Br. Dennis Malloy, FSC Visitor/Provincial of the District of Eastern North America.

Conversation With... Conversation With Chris Czarnik, Director of Advancement

Chris Czarnik has been the De La Salle Director of Advancement since 2006. Under Chris’s leadership, the school successfully completed the 2004 Capital Campaign: Preserving the Legacy. Prior to joining the DLS Family, Chris was the Director of Athletic Development and Head Baseball Coach at his Alma Mater, the University of Detroit Mercy.

How does the school’s mission impact your role in fundraising? It is especially satisfying to be at a school where our priorities are a direct reflection of our founder. We are fulfilling a mission, not just running a business. St. John Baptist de La Salle was an innovator. He found practical, human ways to help educate children and bring them closer to God. He did this by training the Brothers to provide for the children’s needs. Today, our faculty and staff, both the Brothers and lay people, serve that same role. The quality of people at De La Salle is extraordinary. They make a difference for students in small moments and in those that are more profound. Our parents are engaged. They make real sacrifices to send their sons to De La Salle, and we form a

true partnership in educating the boys. “Builders of Boys, Makers of Men” is the motto, not “They’re already men, and we just make them even bigger men.” Parents and DLS partner during a very important transition into maturity. I can’t tell you how many times a parent gives us the feedback that a young man is “all of a sudden doing homework on his own, and that he’s proud of it.” It’s really humbling to witness that transformation. What role does philanthropy play in Catholic education? Philanthropy is essential to the future of Catholic education. As the number of Brothers, Priests and Nuns in Catholic schools decline, they are replaced by lay people. This fundamental shift in budget structure has led to the demise of many schools. As tuition prices react to this trend, Catholic schools are in danger of becoming only a place for the wealthy. However, philanthropy can, and I believe will, prevent that at De La Salle. It’s an essential part of the school’s ethos to represent hard-working people from every economic class and to provide help for deserving families that want a Catholic, Lasallian education for their sons. Without that

Brother George Synan Society Dinner The Annual Brother George Synan Planned Giving Society Dinner was held on March 24. Varsity Football Coach Paul Verska, Deacon Brian Meldrum (‘02) and Senior Zach Giannetti were the featured speakers at this year’s event, reflecting on the different aspects of a Lasallian education.

Chris Czarnik spirit, De La Salle just wouldn’t be the same place it’s been for generations. You work with an alumni base that is very enthusiastic about the school. It’s really something isn’t it? There is a special bond among De La Salle and St. Joe graduates. They are extremely proud of their schools, of being “Brothers’ Boys,” and are committed to making sure the experience is preserved for future generations of Pilots. This pride has a positive effect on current enrollment, because parents realize that once their son attends De La Salle, he enters into a community of graduates that will impact his lifelong friendships as well as his career. It’s powerful. Planned Giving is playing a greater role in how people support the future of De La Salle.

has been an important part of a person’s life, and preserving the future of the school is a meaningful legacy to them or a loved one. What is the motivation to see the school grow and improve? St. John Baptist de La Salle challenged the Brothers to make sure students have the resources they need. He wrote, “Christian schools should be in no respect inferior to others; parents who give them preference on moral and religious grounds should not have occasion to regret that their children do not find therein all other educational advantages.” He recognized that environment and learning tools make a difference in the way students and teachers interact. We are focused on fulfilling His mission and extraordinary vision.

There’s a misconception that Planned Giving is only for the very wealthy. In fact, we have thankfully received gifts that are very modest, and some that are transformational in their amount. I hear often that people would rather leave some of their hard-earned treasures to De La Salle than to the government in the form of estate taxes. But while tax and financial strategies through planned gifts can provide real benefit for a donor and his family, it isn’t the primary goal for most people. The real focus is to say that in some important way, De La Salle

Michael Karwoski (‘65), Daniel Kotwicki (‘65), Hank Hughes (‘66), and Paul Zimmer (‘66) gather for a group photo.

Leave a Legacy at De La Salle To leave a gift to De La Salle in your will, simply share this language with your attorney or financial planner: “I bequeath $_________ or _________% of my estate to De La Salle Collegiate, 14600 Common Rd., Warren, MI 48088.” The Advancement Office can provide more information at 586.778.3356.

Roland Rinke (‘43) and his wife Janice, catch up with Frank Fisher (SJ ‘49).

Admissions News Update from Admissions Director Bill Burkhardt I am excited to announce that the Class of 2019 is shaping up to be a full and outstanding class. The incoming freshmen are an exciting mix of talented students who will help carry on the proud legacy of the over 10,000 living DLS Alumni. The incoming students’ enthusiasm was palpable over the two-day Freshmen Registration process in early March. The students and their parents cannot wait to

become part of the De La Salle Family.

May 8 - Spring Activities Night at De La Salle

As The Collegiate goes to print, there are only 15 spots left in the Class of 2019. These spots will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. If you know of an interested family, please have them contact the Admissions Office at 586.541.6220.

June 15 thru August 6 Summer Camps

Bill Burkhardt, ‘03 Director of Admissions

Summer Camps Open to Boys and Girls in Grades 3-12 12

Upcoming Admissions Events

Our De La Salle Camps are continuing to expand. In 2014 we had over 500 camp participants, and we are setting a goal of 650 for the summer of 2015. We have added some new and exciting camps, including ones focused on business and banking, the college application process, and strength-runningconditioning techniques. Additionally, we have made some big changes for this summmer: • Camps are now open to both boys AND girls, and are no longer only youth camps; the 2015 camps are offered to students entering grades 3-12. • Camps qualify for the childcare tax credit; parents must consult their tax professional. • Camp discounts are available for large groups (group size varies by camp). The DLS Summer Camps are a great way for youngsters to meet the DLS faculty, coaches, and other prospective families while learning new skills and challenges.

October 16 - Fall Activities Night November 8 - Open House For more information, check the website at www.delasallehs.com, or contact the Admissions Department at admissions@delasallehs.com or 586.541.6220

The Summer Camps and their benefits are centered on our three pillars of De La Salle: Academic Rigor, Lasallian Mission, and providing a Safe Learning Environment. These pillars are reflected in our camps in the following ways: • All camps will begin and end each day with prayer. • All camp directors will be trained in CPR and in how to use the AED, in case of a health emergency. • When students leave each camp, they will receive a handout highlighting drills and exercises they can do to continue the improvements they began while at camp. We want to provide families a fun and safe opportunity for their children to be involved while enhancing their academic or athletic skills. For more information on the camps, visit the DLS website at www.delasallehs.com, and click on Summer Camps under the Future Pilots tab. Address specific questions to camps@delasallehs.com

Summer Camps At De La Salle

Baseball Camp (boys only) June 15-18 for grades 6-9 Speed, Strength, and Running Camp June 22-25 for grades 6-9

re Girls a e m Welco

Group Disco un Availa ts ble

Sponsored By

Whatever Happened To... Sister Patricia Eeckhout DLS English Teacher 2000-2012 DLS Business Office 2012 - present A decade of Pilots enjoyed English classes with Sr. Pat Eeckhout, CDP. The genial nun with a droll sense of humor taught a variety of grade levels, including Sophomore Honors and Senior English. She also served as the National Honor Society moderator. But when Sr. Pat stepped away from the classroom in 2012, after nearly 40 years of teaching high school English, she just walked down the hall to the DLS Business Office. Her duties in the Business Office include accounts payable, tuition, organizing volunteers, the Scrip Program for tuition credit, and various other tasks. The job has required Sr. Pat to learn a whole new skill, bookkeeping and accounting, and she utilizes “Quickbooks” to handle the processing of check requests, deposits, and department budgeting.

Mrs. Vicki Granger, then Chair of the English Department, said, “We were delighted to have Sr. Pat join us. Her years of experience and knowledge really added to the department.”

“I love working with students and teachers on a different level in the Business Office. I also enjoy all the excitement of working with our great students at De La Salle Collegiate.”

Sr. Pat lives in the area, in a house in Roseville, with other members of her congregation who are associated with the Archdiocese of Detroit. She travels to PA a few times a year for CDP retreats and community gatherings.

A Detroit-area native, Sr. Pat attended St. Isaac Jogues Grade School and St. Gertrude High School. She entered the novitiate of the Congregation of Divine Providence (CDP), in Pittsburgh, PA, in 1971.

When not at DLS, Sr. Pat enjoys volunteering at St. Clement’s, in Center Line. She also enjoys golfing she’s golfed in leagues - as well as biking, working out at the gym, gardening, and cooking.

For six years, from 1974 - 1980, Sr. Pat taught at Bishop Canevan High School, in Pittsburgh, PA, before returning to the Detroit area. The CDP sisters taught at Our Lady Queen of Peace Grade School, in Harper Woods, as well as Bishop Gallagher High School, on the same campus. Christian Brothers from the Chicago province were also at Bishop Gallagher, which had 1,400 students in 1980.

To contact Sr. Pat, email her at peeckhout@delasallehs.com

In 2000, Sr. Pat joined the De La Salle faculty, as the “Gallagher” student population had dwindled to 140. (Bishop Gallagher closed in 2005).

NOTE: Sr. Pat has not been the only religious sister on the DLS faculty. Her colleagues included the late Sr. Nancy Bartolo, IHM (see page 37), and Sr. Alice Kotwick, OSM. Sr. Nancy continued to substitute teach and accompany students on retreat following her retirement from the classroom in 2001. Sr. Alice is no longer teaching but helps in the DLS bookstore, the Pilot Hangar, several days a week. She also accompanies students on retreats.

Whatever Happened To... The BRAC Five Years Later Five years ago, De La Salle purchased the vacant YMCA Building on Common Rd., about two miles west of the main school campus. The real-estate market in the area was depressed, and the 22,000 sq. ft. building on 5.8 acres represented a “once-in-a-lifetime” opportunity. In September 2010, the building was dedicated as the Brother Robert Activity Center - or “BRAC” - in honor of Brother Robert Carnaghi, FSC, President of De La Salle Collegiate at the time.

Principal Patrick Adams said, “Acquiring the BRAC has allowed De La Salle to serve our students and faculty in a unique way. We are always looking to improve what we do, and become a leader in innovation. The BRAC reflects this pursuit. Instead of settling for certain extra-curriculars to have limited or no space because of the constraints of our main campus, we looked to serve the need in an unconventional manner. Athletics, Drama, Board Committees, Faculty members, and youth groups now have expanded opportunities to carry out their activities because of our willingness to look differently for solutions.” The BRAC has undergone a complete renovation, from interior paint to a new roof, a heating and cooling system upgrade, and landscaping, including over 200 trees.The Wrestling Room is fully padded and has a new floor.

Brother Bob stands with the new BRAC sign in 2010.

A group of alumni and friends rent the BRAC on Thursday evenings for basketball.

The weight room has 19 weight machines, 3 treadmills, 3 ellipticals, a recumbent bike, and a variety of benches and weight racks. Alumni also make use of the facility’s weight room and walking track facilities, as well as renting the gymnasium for basketball games. The DLS Archery Club, moderated by Mrs. Jackie Van Thomme, one of the DLS Science teachers, stores its equipment at the BRAC as well. The Archery Club shoots indoors during the fall. Not all the student activity is inside the building, however. The Track Team’s discus and shot put participants practice throwing in a large outdoor space, while high jumpers are in the gym. DLS Athletic Director Brian Kelly says, “The BRAC has allowed our athletic teams an opportunity to train and practice when they may not

Sophomore Joe Lietzow practicing the high jump.

The BRAC otherwise be able to at De La Salle. The DLS athletic facilities are used constantly both by in-season and out-of-season teams. Space and time is limited on our main campus, so being able to utilize the BRAC has been a godsend. Our coaches and players are benefitting daily.” The gymnasium is not only used by athletic teams. Br. Patrick McNally, Drama Director, holds dance rehearsals every Sunday afternoon in January and February in preparation for the spring musical. He says, “The advantage of the Coaches from St. Anne’s Grade School conducting a speed camp in the BRAC Gymnasium. BRAC for us is that we are able to have our groups of 40 plus spread out. We set up portable mirrors (stored at the BRAC) so the dancers can see their dance technique.” The Wig and Mask Society (WAMS) also stores sets, furniture, and costumes at the BRAC. The facility has also been used for team meetings, to review films, hold team parties and banquets, and even by the DLS Campus Ministry Department for retreat receptions.

Alumnus Roger Grimaldi (‘56) uses the walking track on the upper level several mornings each week.

Senior Damon King, a long jumper on the DLS Track and Field team, conditioning on the squat rack.

In addition to the various student athletes and teams who utilize the BRAC, several girls’ softball teams, as well as men’s baseball and basketball teams, cheerleading squads, and youth football teams are among the BRAC’s renters. The BRAC is the home of the Eastside All-Stars Wrestling youth club.

Vista Maria, a Catholic adoption agency, uses a meeting room at the BRAC to meet with prospective adoptive parents. DLS Alumnus Mike Skonieczny (‘85) is the local Vista Maria coordinator. Sandy Buchanan, who is one of the assistant coaches for the DLS crosscountry and track teams, manages the BRAC. She says, “It is very rewarding to interact with DLS students and coaches to provide a safe, wholesome athletic training environment not only for our own students, but for children and adults in our local community. The BRAC is truly a gem.” The DLS Freshman Baseball Team working out.

For more information about the BRAC, please visit the BRAC page on the DLS website, under the Athletics Tab, or contact Mr. Brad Cusumano, 586.541.6274, bcusumano@delasallehs.com

Making a Difference Alumnus Earned Silver Star on Iwo Jima Walter Josefiak Jr. and his siblings Robert (DLS ‘44), Harry (DLS ‘51), John, and Geraldine were raised as eastside Detroiters on Fairport Street. Walter graduated from De La Salle in 1942 and enlisted in the U.S. Marines for the World War II effort.

and the snipers. The Japanese began to throw hand grenades; Rusty was hit full force. Seriously wounded, Rusty crawled to Josefiak’s side to protect him while grenades continued to blast around the pair.

In the meantime, Marines in the unit He was assigned to threw a rope to Josefiak Camp Lejeune, home to Walter is pictured here as a freshman at DLS. Walter played in and pulled him to the War Dog Training the high school band and graduated in June 1942. safety. Regardless of his Center in North wounds, Josefiak refused to be immediately evacuated Carolina. Here he trained as a soldier and dog hanand ordered others to remain under cover until the dler with the Marine 3rd War Dog Platoon. Rusty, a enemy soldiers were annihilated. He was later taken faithful Doberman Pinscher, would become his proto a battalion hospital where he died. Lt. William tector and best friend during his days on Guam and Taylor, the commanding officer of the unit, noted that Iwo Jima. They shipped out for the fight in the Asiatic Corporal Rusty died as well, on the scene without a Campaign from Camp Pendleton in Oceanside, CA. whimper. War dogs were used by both the Allies and the Japanese in WWII. The dogs varied by breed and were specifically trained to scout, guard, attack, carry messages, detect underground land mines, and trip wires. They were an important part of the Asiatic campaign and a contributing factor to the liberation of Guam in 1944. Additionally, they had their own cemetery and were assigned rank. Rusty was a Corporal. On March 22, 1945, Walter and Rusty were leading a patrol on Iwo Jima searching for snipers. Scouting about 15 feet ahead of the unit, they were first to sniff out two hidden Japanese soldiers. Josefiak shot the first soldier; his rifle then jammed, and he won the fight in hand-to-hand combat with the second soldier. A short time later, the duo continued up along a ledge to the mouth of a cave where several enemy snipers were holed up. Josefiak began firing but was downed and wounded from return fire. Fulfilling his duty, Rusty guarded his master, staying between Josefiak

Walter Josefiak Jr. earned the Silver Star posthumously for his assertive nature in combat and courage. He was buried in Mount Olivet Cemetery with a full Marine military salute. A small playground honoring him is stocked with newer equipment. It is located on Grenier St. near Fairport - around the block from the Josefiak’s childhood home. In 2014, it was adopted by volunteers and was well tended during the summer.

Thanks to Andrea Gallucci for submitting this story. The Josefiak story is one of many about the dedicated, creative and courageous people honored with a memorial park within the City of Detroit. Read more at Telling the Stories of Detroit Parks found at www.cityliterate.com

You are invited to the

2015 Pilot Golf Outing benefitting De La Salle Athletics and the DLS Alumni Association

Monday, June 15th • $150.00 per person at Scalawags Golf Club (Formerly Boulder Lakes)

52100 Fairchild Road • North of 23 Mile Road • Chesterfield, MI 48051 www.boulderlakesgolf.com

Tee off time at 1:00 p.m. Additional Donation Opportunities Tee/Green Sponsorship..................$100 Driving Range Sponsorship ........$250

11:30 a.m. Registration Lunch Driving Range Open 1:00 p.m. Shotgun Start

Call John Monigold at 586-541-6212 or email jmonigold@delasallehs.com for more information.

Registration is limited, please sign up by June 6th! Golf Outing Registration Form

Prepayment of $150.00 per person required by June 5, 2015

Fill out this form and mail to the DLS Advancement Department at 14600 Common Road, Warren, MI 48088 Call us at 586-778-3356 to pay by credit card OR go to www.ThePilotHangar.com to order online

Contact Name__________________________________________________________________________________________ Address, City, State, Zip __________________________________________________________________________________ Contact Phone _____________________________ Email ___________________________________________________ To pay by credit card - Circle One: Visa MasterCard AmEx Discover or make your check payable to De La Salle Name on Card: ______________________________________________ Amount to Charge: $ _____________________ Card Number: __________________________________________ Exp. Date __________ Sec. Code _______________ Player 1 _____________________________________________ _ *I support _____________________________________ Player 2 _____________________________________________ _ *I support _____________________________________ Player 3 _____________________________________________ _ *I support _____________________________________ Player 4 _____________________________________________ _ *I support _____________________________________

*Each golfer can designate up to 3 of these programs to benefit from his/her registration. DLS Alumni Association • Bowling • Baseball • Basketball • Cross Country/Track Football • Golf • Hockey • Lacrosse • Soccer • Swim • Tennis • Wrestling

Alumni Spotlight Bill Sheridan

Class of 1977 Linebackers Coach, Detroit Lions From the time he was in junior high at St. Raymond’s in Detroit, Bill Sheridan, DLS Class of 1977, knew he wanted to be a football coach. Bill said, “When I was 13 or 14, I thought if I could be a head coach at De La Salle or Brother Rice, I would have died and gone to heaven.” Nearly 45 years later, he has fulfilled that dream of being a football coach - and then some. He’s coached at the high school, college, and pro levels, while maintaining his ties with De La Salle and the Detroit area. About a year ago, Bill returned to Detroit, and is an assistant coach with his hometown Detroit Lions.

Influential Coaches

The youngest of 12 children and the son of a Detroit police officer, Bill always knew he would attend De La Salle. Six of his seven older brothers are De La Salle graduates. (His four older sisters are all Regina High School graduates.) Bill is quick to praise the coaches he’s had along the way. He fondly remembers Little League (sponsored by the Detroit Parks and Recreation Department) practices and games at Wish Egan Field. “A couple of Detroit police officers, Frank Kirshner and Angelo Pellegata, were our coaches. They were phenomenal. I also had George Spencer and Bob Temerowski, a graduate of St. Ambrose, as coaches. Both George and Bob had sons who attended De La Salle.” At St. Raymond’s, Bill’s football coaches were Tom and Jack Masserang, St. Catherine’s graduates, along with Bill Kemp, a Servite graduate, and Gino Paliaroli, SJ ‘55. “Tom and Jack later coached for over a decade at Bishop Gallagher with George Sahadi.” Bill easily recalls his high school coaches. “I had Rich Dobrzynski as a coach for four years, freshman

Bill Sheridan outside of his Linebackers Classroom at the Detroit Lions Training Facility in Allen Park, MI.

and JV football, and then for varsity basketball my junior and senior years. Other coaches were John Maronto, Mike Jolly, Ray Barr, and Paul Hayner. Paul played at St. Ambrose and then at Michigan State University, and for a short time in the NFL. They were all outstanding coaches.” Bill had football offers from several colleges, including Wayne State University. “A lot of guys from the CHSL were at Wayne, but I wanted to go away from home. I visited Hillsdale, and Findlay in Ohio.” He ultimately decided on Grand Valley State University. “They seemed to really want me the most. Even if it was a sales pitch, I bought it. The head coach Jim Harkema convinced me that I was wanted. I was very lucky to be coached by him. “All these guys were wonderful coaches who were great mentors and role models. I have been very lucky and very blessed to know them. They truly affected my decision to go into coaching.” After college, Bill landed at Royal Oak Shrine, teaching in the grade school and coaching the high school football team as an assistant to head coach Jim MacDougall. “Jim was from St. Catherine’s, and coached at Shrine for 22 years. He was a legendary CHSL coach.” McDougall is now retired.

Alumni Spotlight “I really wanted to find a high school head coaching job. I got one interview at Marine City Holy Cross. Those jobs were few and far between. So I decided to return to college and see where I could go in the college ranks.”

the other coaches meet daily during this off-season. “It’s not as hectic in the off-season. We work 8 - 5. Half the day is quality control. Self-analysis. We watch film, watch for trends around the league. The other half of the day, we’re doing a crash course evaluating the draft prospects. What the scouts do year-round, we’re doing in two months. We write reports for the management, giving evidence of our opinions.”

From Graduate Assistant to the Pros

Bill got a job as a graduate assistant at the University of Michigan for the 1985 and 1986 seasons, when Jim Harbaugh was quarterback and captain of the team, under the legendary Bo Schembechler.

That management includes Lions’ President Tom Lewand, a defensive player at Shrine during Bill’s coaching days. A sign in the Linebackers Classroom.

“Every day I drove to work and I used to pinch myself. I was actually going into the football facility and working for Bo. He was such an inspiring man. It was a privilege to be around him.” Following the ‘86 season, Bill continued his journey in the college coaching ranks, heading to Maine, Cincinnati, and then West Point. As a West Point recruiter, he got to know Paul Verska, De La Salle’s head coach since 2002, while recruiting Paul’s son Nick, the quarterback for the Ann Arbor Huron High School team. Verska was the team’s head coach from 1990-2002; Nick graduated in 1997. Bill returned to Michigan and coached linebackers for Michigan State University under Nick Saban. Then a year at the University of Notre Dame. Back to Michigan through 2004. Twenty years in the college ranks. And then came the Giants. Bill spent five years with the New York Giants, winning a Super Bowl ring in 2007. He coached linebackers for four years and was the defensive coordinator in the 2009 season. Two years with the Miami Dolphins. Another two years with Tampa. And then the Lions’ head coach Jim Caldwell called. Now the linebackers coach with the Detroit Lions, Bill and

Bill was in the stands at Ford Field on November 28, 2014, as the Pilots played for the Division 2 State Championship. “It was great watching my alma mater. I was so happy for Paul Verska. He’s been to the finals more than once. I think the world of Paul and the job he’s done. How rewarding it must have been for him personally, and for the alums. For as long as De La Salle has been around, to finally win it. It made me very proud to be a grad.”

Returning Home

Bill and his wife Jaycine, a Dominican High School graduate, were “high school sweethearts.” Jaycine’s brother George Jabara is a DLS alumnus, Class of 1983. When Bill joined the Michigan staff in 2002, he and Jaycine bought a house in Ann Arbor, and have kept it, despite his move to the NFL a few years later. “My family moved with me every time I changed jobs. When I went to the Giants, we considered moving to New Jersey, but after a year, we took the house off the market. So I did long distance. We never thought we’d be doing it for nine years. We Continues on page 22

Alumni Spotlight, Continued made the decision to have our four kids all graduate from the same high school. We live in Ann Arbor, but it’s the Saline School District. It’s a fantastic district. After my youngest, my daughter Natalie, started at MSU, my wife moved to Tampa with me. But it’s really great to be back home.”

Bill is proud of his three sons who are all coaching. His oldest son Joe is coaching at Ann Arbor Gabriel Richard under Mike Girskis, ‘75. Bill’s middle son Nick played Bill Sheridan in the Detroit Lions Indoor Field at the Lions Training Facility. at Michigan, and is a graduate assistant at the University of Tennessee, and his youngest son Mark, That’s part of the reason I decided to go into coaching.” who played at Albion, is a graduate assistant at Although his title is coach, Bill considers himself Purdue. a teacher. At the Lions’ Allen Park headquarters,

A DLS Foundation

“The Christian Brothers did a wonderful job. They are phenomenal educators. They were very competent in the classroom. I was the farthest thing from a model student. But the one thing you eventually learn - hopefully while you’re there, definitely after you leave - is that you are held to an extremely high standard. In my mind that’s what makes a De La Salle education what it is. “The coaches at De La Salle gave you encouragement and built up your self-esteem, even in daily subtle ways. For them to think you had something that was worth developing did so much for your confidence.

where the team has “one of the nicest facilities in the NFL,” he calls the room where he meets with linebackers his “classroom.” He has a white board. There are tables and chairs. He is teaching, evaluating, helping his group improve every week. “That’s one thing I miss a little bit as an NFL coach. This is a very performance-based business. In high school and college, you have the opportunity to have a little more impact on the players. “I’m happy with my assistant role. I want to be a defensive coordinator again. But if I’m an assistant coach the rest of my career, I would have had a glorious life. I have loved going to work every day.”

Alumni News Catholic Schools Week Alumni Mass

Alumni fathers and grandfathers of current students joined in the traditional Celebration of the Mass during Catholic Schools Week in late January.

Class of 2015 - Current Seniors Front row; Dr. Ray Skowronski (‘74), Ray Skowronski, Jr. (‘15), Sal Simone (‘74), Mario Simone (‘15), John Kravitz (‘81), Alex Kravitz (‘15), Joseph Caruana (‘15), Paul DiTrapani (SJ ‘55). Back row; Matt Loria (‘89), Luke Loria (‘15), Richard Muckle (‘78), Richard Muckle (‘15), Matt Jozefczk (‘15), Paul Jozefczyk (‘83), Nick Jozefcyk (‘15).

Class of 2016 - Current Juniors Front row; Mario Izzi (‘90), Mario Izzi Jr. (‘16), Patrick Walters (‘84), Kyle Walters (‘16), David Malik (‘86), David Malik (‘16), William Prince (‘80), Michael Prince (‘16), John Miscavich (‘80), Jonathan Miscavich (‘16). Back row; Paul Wilk (‘85), Josh Wilk (‘16), Joe Hallman (‘88), Joey Hallman (‘16), Craig Griffin (‘87), Harrison Griffin (‘16), Joe LoGrasso (‘84), Vincent LoGrasso (‘16), Paul Brillati (‘90), Jonathan Brillati (‘16).

Class of 2017 and Class of 2018 Current Sophomores and Freshmen Front row; Joe Hallman (‘88), Liam Hallman (‘18), Jamie Sciturro (‘83), Dominic Sciturro (‘17), Roger Berent (‘92), Ethan Berent (‘18), Paul DiTrapani (SJ ‘55), Michael Caruana (‘18). Back row; Jason Groth (‘91), Kenneth Morelli (‘18), Jeffrey Wiegand (‘77), Kyle Wiegand (‘17), Bill Iacona (‘88), Ben Iacona (‘18).

Alumni News Alumnus Josh Stockton’s Gold Cash Gold Named One of Detroit’s Top Ten New Restaurants With a culinary career that has taken him all over the country for the last dozen years, Josh Stockton (‘01) recently returned to Detroit. He opened Gold Cash Gold in Corktown, in mid-December. Operating in a former pawn shop, which the building’s owners renovated over a two-year period, Gold Cash Gold has quickly become a destination spot, and was named one of the area’s Top Ten New Restaurants in February 2015.

The menu is seasonal, using locally sourced, house-made, farm-to-table dishes. Josh says one of his earliest culinary influences was his grandfather’s farm in Tennessee, where he and his family went for holidays. The farm had hundreds of cattle, pigs, and turkeys, a smokehouse and canning house. “It’s where I first learned you use what’s available and what’s around you.” Josh’s father, James, a longtime chef and restaurant manager in the Detroit area, now lives in Tennessee at the farm once owned by his maternal great-grandmother. Josh gets the pigs he uses for menus at Gold Cash Gold from his father’s farm. Josh’s mother, Kathleen, recently retired from dentistry and is

working with James to get the farm going full-time. Following the reclaimed/re-use theme in the pre-20th century building, located on Wabash and Michigan, the restaurant features long wooden beams from an old warehouse for seating along the walls, as well as a wooden floor from the gymnasium of the now closed Hosmer Elementary School in Detroit. During the renovation, Josh and his partners discovered usable wood walls under years of paint and plaster. That wood has been lathed into slats for the ceiling. Josh lives in a large loft apartment above the restaurant. After high school, Josh attended the Culinary Institute of America (CIA). With that training, his career has included jobs at top restaurants and hotels in Las Vegas, and at the worldfamous Blackberry Farm in Tennessee. Josh says many of the vendors he deals with knew his father, and many have DLS connections. Gold Cash Gold, at 2100 Michigan Ave., is open for lunch and dinner. Visit the website at goldcashgolddetroit.com

Alumni News John Povlitz Jr. (‘42) recently celebrated his 90th birthday. Ron Parker (‘51) lives in Naples, FL. Ron has recently had some health issues, but is now feeling better.

The Class of 2003, with a little help from 2002, won the 2015 Alumni Basketball Tournament. Eight teams competed in the day-long Saturday tournament in early March to kick off the state playoffs. Thanks to Joe Novak, who teaches Math at DLS and also coaches, for organizing the tournament. Photo: Dennis Czuchaj, Jeff Grauzer (‘02), Joe Novak, Jason Blickensdorf, Mike Gulewicz, Joe Colagiovani, and Joe Konrad.

The 1994-95 basketball team honored at a home basketball game in early February. Photo: Jason McGavin (‘95), Mike Martel (‘95), Michael Jolet (‘96), Jeff Graus (‘95), and Anthony Lodato (‘95).

Dr. James Louwers (‘54) recently lost his daughter-inlaw Barbara Louwers, wife of his son Dr. Timothy Louwers, a professor at James Madison University in Virginia. John DeSmedt (‘78), son of Jim DeSmedt (‘47) is married with two children and has been living in Charlotte, North Carolina for the last seven years. His wife Judy is the niece of Ed Wojcik (‘57). John has a successful real estate business. Jared Suminski (‘10) graduated from Ferris State University in May 2014 with a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice. Jared is working as a Corrections Officer for the Macomb County Sheriff’s Department.

The Class of 1954 gathered for its 60th reunion in the fall of 2014.

Alumni Events Monthly Luncheons & Meetings De La Salle Class of 1941 meets at Noon for lunch on the third Thursday of the month at Wave’s Restaurant, 24223 Jefferson, St. Clair Shores. De La Salle Class of 1947 meets at Noon for lunch on the first Thursday of the month at the Vinsetta Grill, 28028 Woodward. De La Salle Class of 1958 meets at 11:30 a.m. for lunch on the third Tuesday of the month at the Polish Century Club, 2975 E. Maple, Troy. De La Salle Class of 1963 meets at 9 a.m. on the third Thursday of the month at Michelle’s Restaurant and Sweetheart Bakery, 31920 Van Dyke (Between 13 & 14 Mile Roads) Warren. St. Joe’s Alumni Monthly Luncheon meets at Noon for lunch on the second Wednesday of the month at Liz’s Ham Place, 31500 Groesbeck, Fraser. St. Joe’s Alumni Monthly Breakfast meets at 8:30 a.m. for breakfast on the second Tuesday of the month at Friar Tuck’s on 39793 Garfield Road, Clinton Township.

Reunions DLS Class of 1965 will hold its reunion the weekend of May 15 - 18, 2015. Contact Dan Kotwicki for more information at dfkotwicki@yahoo.com. • Friday, May 15 Reception 5-9 p.m. @ De La Salle • Saturday, May 16 Dinner 7-11 p.m. @ Vintage House • Sunday, May 17 Mass 9 a.m. @ DLS Chapel and Breakfast @ Michelle’s on Van Dyke in Warren • Monday, May 18 DLS Graduation Dinner & Ceremony 5-9 p.m. 26

De La Salle Class of 1981 will hold its 35th reunion on Saturday, March 12, 2016, at Villa Penna in Sterling Heights. Details to follow. Contact Paul Treder at paul.f.treder@morganstanley.com. For further information on any Alumni Events, contact John Monigold in the De La Salle Alumni Office at 586.541.6212 or jmonigold@delasallehs.com

Special Events Christian Brothers’ Dinner - Thursday, April 30, 2015 at Penna’s of Sterling. (See page 4). Annual Alumni Memorial Mass - Sunday, May 3, DLS Chapel, at noon. De La Salle Class of 2015 Graduation - Monday, May 18 at 7 p.m., honoring the DLS and SJ Classes of 1945, and 1955, and the De La Salle Class of 1965. De La Salle Golf Outing - Monday, June 15, 2015 at Scalawags Golf Club, 1 p.m. Shotgun Start (See page 19). Senior Alumni Luncheon for De La Salle (Classes 1929-1965) & St. Joe’s (All Classes) - Wednesday, June 17, 2015 at De La Salle. DLS Alumni Bowling - Second Thursday’s October-March, from 7-9 p.m. at Detroit Bowling & Skills Center, 7023 E. 14 Mile Road. Sterling Heights. Join us for a fun evening! For more information on these events and more, check the DLS website at www.delasallehs.com

School News Students Learn from Alumni Experiences

DLS Campus Minister Brian Barker and Chris Godfrey (‘76).

Vince Thomas (‘96), speaking with students.

Chris Godfrey spoke to seniors at the annual senior retreats over three days in February. He lives in South Bend with his wife and six children. Chris heads Life Athletes (lifeathletes.org), the organization he founded, and is a frequent speaker to high school groups around the country.

Vince Thomas, visited De La Salle and spoke with the DECA Club in March. Thomas challenged the aspiring business leaders to devote their talents to work they love doing, and to seek out a business culture that fits their personality and strengths. 27

2015 Raffle A Success The 41st Annual Student Raffle is now history, with DLS students, along with the support of alumni, exceeding the school goal of $175,000. Our winners are: Grand Prize $10,000 Winner: Norm Raymond – Ticket number 66724. The winning ticket was sold by sophomore Nicholas Redmond. 2nd Prize $5,000 Winner: Rosemary Schaffer – Ticket Number 30091. 3rd Prize $2,500 Winner: Karen Wlasiuk – Ticket Number 34662. Nicholas Redmond, Grand Prize Winner Norm Raymond, and Br. Tom Lackey.

Thanks to Allied Printing and Paul C. Zimmer, Class of ’66, for the printing of the tickets.

School News DLS Adopting Project Lead the Way to Address “STEM” Curriculum Beginning in the 2015 - 2016 school year, DLS is introducing Project Lead the Way (PLTW) that will “bring all our engineering opportunities under one umbrella,” according to Principal Patrick Adams.

Adams said there have been two issues in the existing DLS STEM (Science, Engineering, Technology, and Math) curriculum. “Kids were coming in at the ninth grade level, and had already experienced the topics covered in our current eleventh grade Robotics class. This was problematic. You can’t have kids wait until junior year to cover material they already know.” The other issue was the tremendous expansion of the CATIAv6 classes. The CATIA courses, using the sophisticated computeraided design technology used in industry, “began to grow legs. More and more students wanted to be involved, and we were putting more and more human and monetary resources into the program,” said Adams. Adams first heard about PLTW two years ago at a Lasallian educators conference. “Two Lasallian schools were struggling with the

same things we were.” He said one adopted the PLTW curriculum, while the other school created its own. PLTW began about 15 years ago as an industry attempt to fill a void in the technology sector. “Industry was finding high school graduates did not necessarily have the ability to begin a rigor-

sors if you will institute this curriculum.” Project Lead the Way (PLTW) programs are now offered in more than 4700 middle and high schools in all 50 states. There are currently 118 schools offering PLTW programs in Michigan. De La Salle becomes the first high school in Macomb County to offer PLTW. Adams said, “I believe PLTW is an initiative that fits perfectly into what we are trying to do. Essentially this will give us an engineering track that in our estimation can become a huge program over the next five years.”

ous engineering program, such as Purdue University’s Engineering program,” said Adams. “Nor did students have the skills to be employed at a base level in the industry.”

Assistant Principal Steve Stewart says that 40 students, not including the incoming freshmen, have requested the Introduction to Engineering Design (IED) course for next fall. “The PLTW curriculum sets a class size limit of 20-24. Which students get into the class depends on the master scheduling process.”

He explained that industry approached major universities and districts across the country. “They said, here’s what kids need to know. Here’s the curriculum we suggest. We’ll help find spon-

Adams also says PLTW fits in perfectly with the ultimate goal of creating a working opportunity in the second semester of senior year. “Project Lead the Way will give kids the opportunity to be

School News What the teachers say about Project Lead the Way Ron Barger

employable with relevant skills while in high school, and be prepared for co-op opportunities in college.” Stewart notes that the outlook for STEM-related college degrees is good. “Recent reports say the deficit in STEM-based occupations will last through 2020, and probably beyond.” The lead teacher for the initial PLTW class will be Ron Barger, the Catiav6 teacher. Barger is trained in Industrial Technology and CAD (Computer-Aided Design). Because Physics is a part of the PLTW curriculum, both of De La Salle’s Physics teachers, Jim De Haan and Eric Leichtnam, are also involved. This summer, Barger and DeHaan will take Year 1 Training. In 2016, DeHaan and Leichtnam will take the Year 2 Training for the second year of the program, Principles of Engineering. PLTW has certified various partners to train teachers; Eastern Michigan University is the closest site. To cover the costs associated with PLTW, including the curriculum, materials, and teacher training, as well as an annual fee, Stewart wrote a grant application for $25,000 from General Motors. That grant, along with an anticipated second grant from a non-industry source, will help cover the first-year fees. To learn more about Project Lead the Way, visit the non-profit’s website at www.pltw.org.

In the Fall we will start implementing Project Lead the Way, and the first piece of the puzzle starts with Introduction to Engineering (IED). Throughout the course, students will design, analyze, and communicate possible solutions to a variety of environmental and technological problems. It is about applying engineering, science, math, and technology to solve complex, open-ended problems in a real-world context. Students focus on the process of defining and solving a problem, not on getting the “right” answer.

Jim DeHaan

I am looking forward to seeing students being immersed in this curriculum. Rather than being an engineering class, this program looks to give the students the experience that is needed to truly understand physics and mathematics concepts. Right now, the AP Physics 1 curriculum is completely laboratory-based, but PLTW turns these labs into projects. I am looking forward to being a part of this.

Eric Leichtnam

I am extremely excited about the addition of Project Lead the Way to our course offerings at DLS. The students who choose to take part in this segment of STEM courses are going to get valuable hands’-on experience solving problems that the engineers of today solve in their daily work. Perhaps most exciting is that our students will partner with local businesses. This will allow students to see problem solving happen in the workplace and also give them an opportunity to begin networking with engineers in the field. There will be a heavy emphasis on traditional Physics concepts in the second-year PLTW course: Principles of Engineering. When students enter this course, they will bring the basic concepts and strategies that they learned in the Introduction to Engineering course to help them solve problems that are much more complex in nature, both physically and mathematically.

School News Four Students Qualify for DECA International Competition prepare a speech or presentaSixteen students in De La tion for the judge. Salle’s newly-formed chapter of Distributive Education DECA is an international Clubs of America (DECA) association of high school and participated in state competicollege students and teachers tion in Grand Rapids in midof marketing, management March, after qualifying at the and entrepreneurship in DECA District Competition, business, finance, hospitalheld in Detroit in January. ity, and marketing sales and Ten of the 16 received awards service. The organization Jason Kathawa, Michael Smigiel, Zach Giannetti, for their performances, and prepares leaders and enand Jon Miko. four qualified to compete at trepreneurs for careers and the International Conference The State Competition awards education in marketing, finance, in Orlando, FL, at the end of April. are based on the online exam that hospitality, management, and other The four national qualifiers include seniors Zach Giannetti, Jon Miko,and Mike Smigiel, and sophomore Jason Kathawa.

students took at the end of February business areas. and two judged role plays at the The DLS DECA Chapter is modercompetition. Students are given a ated by Mrs. Stephanie Howay and scenario and have ten minutes to Mr. Dennis Koch.

Senior Team in State’s Top Five in Fed Reserve Challenge 30

Three DLS seniors - Nicholas Jozefczyk, John Miko, and Michael Smigiel - competed in the High School Fed Challenge at the Federal Reserve in Detroit on March 13, and finished in the top five in the state. Michael also participated last year.

monetary policy recommendation. The team must then defend its presentation before a panel of judges in a 13-minute Q and A. Judges are New York Fed economists, as well as staff who are experts on economics and monetary policy.

The students must think on their feet, as well as thinking analytiThe competition is a simulated Jon Miko, Michael Smigiel, and cally, making an effective preFederal Open Market Committee Nicholas Jozefczyk sentation, and working as a team (FOMC) meeting. The FOMC is - skills that are valuable in both academic and the policy making group that makes interest rate professional careers. decisions to foster economic strength and stability. The students prepared for the competition by reading the Wall Street Journal, reading minutes of the FOMC, and studying economic indicators, such as labor statistics.

Michael said, “I am truly honored to compete with such a great group, and for such a great school. Even though we won’t be going on to nationals, the experience enhanced our economic knowledge.”

The competition consists of a team 12-minute presentation: a short-term forecast for the economy and a

Mr. Dennis Koch, who teaches Banking and Economics, is the group’s coach and moderator.

School News Marching Band at the ‘Joe’ for DeKeyser Bobblehead Night The Marching Pilots performed on the steps of Joe Louis Arena in early March, prior to a Red Wings’ home game vs. the Edmonton Oilers. The occasion was Danny DeKeyser “Bobblehead” Night. DeKeyser is a 2008 De La Salle graduate. After performing, the musicians, and nearly 250 family members and friends, enjoyed the game. DeKeyser has been extremely supportive of the school. He appeared in Red Wings’ produced videos in the days prior to the De La Salle vs. Muskegon Mona Shores state championship game at Ford Field in November. He wore a Pilots’ football jersey, with his Wings’ number, 65, and made a friendly wager with his Wings’ teammate, Justin Abdelkader, a Muskegon Mona Shores graduate. The Marching Band is pictured on the steps of Joe Louis Arena. In the photo: Standing in front of the Band, along with DeKeyser’s family, Music Director Mike Szczegielniak (third from left) and Drum Major Christian Miller (far right). DeKeyser himself was warming up, but did talk about the Pilots and their success in pre-game interviews with Red Wings’ TV and radio announcers.

Mock Trial Team Earns High Praise The DLS Mock Trial Team took third at the Macomb County Regional Tournament in early March, and earned high praise from several local judges and attorneys. The third-place designation came with Honorable Mention honors, and a “wild card” possibility for the State Tournament in Lansing. The Mock Trial Tournament is sponsored by the Michigan Center for Civic Education. Teams of 6-10 students present arguments for either the plaintiff or defense before panels of real judges and lawyers who serve as the presiding judge and jury.

Ben Aloia (‘91), Michael Nicholas, Mario Fusciardi, Joe Hallman, Kyle Walters, Ryan Wisniewski, Michael Kostuch, Nicolas Taylor, Justin Pauken, Jacob Jones, and Kyle Kole (‘06).

The mock trial experience gives students exposure to an actual trial, and enables them to make connections with well-respected area lawyers. Attorney Ben Aloia, (‘91), served as the team’s coach, along with attorney Kyle Kole, (‘06), and Jacob Jones, the DLS School Psychologist and Counselor.

The 2015 team consisted entirely of juniors, with four students returning from last year’s team. The team held practices at De La Salle, at Aloia’s offices in Mt. Clemens, or at the 37th District Courthouse in Warren and also watched the proceedings of a real trial at the Macomb County Circuit Court in Mt. Clemens.

Athletic News

The DLS Wrestling Team with its third consecutive District Championship Trophy.

Wrestling

DLS Wrestlers had an outstanding season, including their third consecutive District Individual Championship. In the CHSL, Wrestling won the Central Division Dual Meet Championship, and took second place at the CHSL Individual Championships. Senior Jacob Van Ittersum (285) took 8th place at the MHSAA Individual Wrestling Finals in March. This is the third All-State Wrestler for DLS in the programâ€™s ten-year history.

Bowling

The varsity bowlers challenged other teams at every match and tournament. The team just missed the State Finals by six pins.

Hockey

The Varsity Hockey Team won the Traverse City Tournament. The team lost in overtime in the regional finals to Grosse Pointe South.

Senior Jacob Van Ittersum, at far right, on the podium, at the State Individual Wrestling Finals

Athletic News

Swimming The Swim Team took its third consecutive Macomb County Championship, setting new pool and school records. Coach Jim Singelyn (‘90) took 16 swimmers to the Division 2 State Finals. DLS finished 7th, its highest finish in memory at finals, up from 20th place in 2014.

Swimmers broke numerous records throughout the season, as well as at finals. All-State Honors also went to the 200 Medley Relay - 5th - PJ Desmet, Jack Kucharczyk, Nick Scott, Tim Addy 200 IM - 6th - Jack Kucharczyk 100 Fly - 6th - PJ Desmet

(broke the 1976 record of Kevin Williams) 100 Back - 2nd - PJ Desmet 100 Breast - 3rd - Jack Kucharczyk (broke the 1990 record of Jim Singelyn) 400 Free Relay - 6th - Mitch Livingston, David Ackley, PJ Desmet, Jack Kucharczyk 33

Football Follow Up The DLS Varsity Football Team continued to earn accolades after winning the school’s first state football championship in November 2014. Ten seniors committed to play college football on February 4, 2015, Signing Day. Mike Danna (D1 – Central Michigan University) Austin Ballard (D2 – Notre Dame College, Ohio) Joey Garbarino (D2 – Northwood) Khary Harris (D2 – Malone University, Ohio) Damon King (D2 – Notre Dame College, Ohio)

Ryan Smith (D2 – Wayne State University) Alex Spicuzzi (D2 – Northwood) Jake Townsley (D2 – Northwood) Jake VanIttersum (D2 – Northwood) Cooper Gammon (NAIA – Concordia, Ann Arbor)

Athletic News Kelly Named CHSL AD of the Year DLS Athletic Director Brian Kelly has been named the Tom Kelly “Athletic Director of the Year,” and will be honored at the Annual Catholic High School League (CHSL) Hall of Fame Day on June 8. The CHSL first presented the Athletic Director of the Year award in 1976. Kelly accepted the award, named for his father, a longtime fixture in the CHSL. Tom Kelly had recently passed away; Brian was about to enter his senior year at Harper Woods Notre Dame High School.

Principal Patrick Adams, a close friend of Brian Kelly’s since their high school days at Harper Woods Notre Dame High School in the 1970’s, said, “Brian’s work ethic, passion, and love of De La Salle have served to elevate him to an elite status as an educational leader. He exemplifies all that is right and good at the Collegiate. His efforts are a main reason De La Salle is flourishing at this time, and we are fortunate he wears purple and gold.” As Athletic Director, Kelly is responsible for 13 sports, nearly all of which have freshmen, JV, and varsity level teams. He has initiated post-season coaching evaluations, pre-season coaches’ meetings, concussion training, AED training, coaches’ manuals, and a focus on safety and security of athletes and

coaches. His duties extend beyond the gymnasium and weight room. As an Assistant Principal, along with the other administrators, he is responsible for teacher mentoring and evaluation, interviewing and hiring of teachers, and encouraging and supporting professional development of the teachers and staff. He also oversees the school’s random drug testing program and the student monitors who are primarily focused on the safety of the school’s campus. Kelly said, “Obviously, I am deeply appreciative of all the people I work with at De La Salle and the Catholic League. In particular, I have benefitted greatly from the outstanding work of Shannon Bischoff and Kellie Mehl, the two administrative assistants I have had the pleasure of working with. My wife Donna and our three sons are the ones who have made

my passion possible. De La Salle and the Catholic League mean so much to me. I am honored and humbled to be a part of both.” Kelly began his teaching career at De La Salle in 1982, and coached freshman and JV baseball in his first years at DLS. He took over the head coaching job in 1985, and led the Pilots to three Division 1 state championships (1993, 2000, 2009). He became Athletic Director in 2004, and stepped away from the head coaching position in 2010. In 2011, the school dedicated the baseball field to him in recognition of his accomplishments. Kelly began his college career at Michigan State University, and transferred to the University of Detroit after his sophomore year. He pitched for both the Spartans and the Titans for two years each.

Catholic League Hall of Fame Monday, June 8, 2015 Fern Hill Golf and Country Club 17600 Clinton River Rd. Clinton Township, MI 48038 Cocktails 5:30 p.m. Inductions and Presentations 6:30 p.m. Banquet 7:30 p.m. Tickets $70.

Athletic News Associate Basketball Coach Mehl Selected to CHSL Hall of Fame DLS Varsity Basketball Associate Head Coach Tom Mehl has been selected for induction into the Catholic HIgh School League Hall of Fame. Tom Mehl began coaching basketball at DLS in 1994-95 as the JV head coach and varsity assistant coach under Greg Esler. He held both positions for six years before giving up the JV position to focus solely on the varsity team. In 2011, Coach Mehl was named the Associate Head Coach of the varsity basketball program. Mehl said, “Being nominated for the CHSL Hall of Fame is very flattering and unexpected. It’s not often assistant coaches or associate head coaches are recognized

for their commitment and success of their programs. I love coaching basketball, but more importantly, I love the opportunity to coach at DLS and all the players who have come through our program.” Mehl began playing for Coach Esler in 1987-88 as a junior at Lake Shore High School in Esler’s first year as a varsity basketball coach. He started coaching with him in 1992 as a varsity assistant coach at Lake Shore. In 1993-94 their Lake Shore team won the Class B state championship with a record of 28-0.

knowledge of the game and is truly dedicated to the basketball program and De La Salle.”

Esler said, “Tom Mehl has been an integral part of the success that De La Salle Basketball has had over the years. He has great

Mehl is the Parks, Programs, and Athletics Manager for the St. Clair Shores Parks and Recreation Department. 35

Basketball Team District Champs The Varsity Basketball Team won the District Championship over Warren Mott. The team lost in the regional semi-final to Detroit Western, the eventual Class A State Champion.

In Memoriam This list represents notifications received through March 31, 2015. If you know of an alumnus or extended family member who has passed, please contact John Monigold in the DLS Alumni Office at 586.541.6212. 1930’s

John Hocij, SJ ‘53. November 14, 2014.

1950’s

Robert Maziasz, ‘65. February 15, 2015.

Frank J. Darga III, SJ ‘55. January 13, 2015. Edward R. Eades, SJ ‘54. November 13, 2014

John Beattie, ‘38. January 5, 2015.

James Ernst, SJ ‘54. March 21, 2015.

Sidney Hirschfield, ‘39. October 30, 2014.

Robert Huck, SJ ‘53. January 23, 2015. Father of the late Tim Huck (‘85) and the late Dan Huck (‘87).

Dr. Edward Watko, ‘38. December 5, 2014. Ed was proud to have graduated from DLS and faithfully attended all the luncheons and reunions.

1940’s

the Pentagon. Don spent his later years in Annandale, VA. He will be buried at Arlington National Cemetery this summer.

Eugene Hummer, ‘57. January 28, 2015. Richard Mansfield, ‘56. December 17, 2014.

Richard Olszewski, ‘62. December 10, 2014. Kenneth Schmidt, ‘63. March 30, 2015.

1970’s

Brian Hayner, ‘75. January 25, 2015. Robert Kronner, ‘79. January 18, 2015.

1980’s

Michael Barczewski, ‘82. March 5, 2015. Paul Veryzer, ‘83. March 2, 2015. Brother of Harry Veryzer (‘61).

Paul Chervenak, ‘49. December 17, 2014.

Raymond Mansfield, SJ ‘58. October 9, 2014.

Leo Patrick Fitzpatrick, ‘46. November 9, 2014.

Stephen Messina, ‘53. November 30, 2014. Steve was the owner of Skalawags Golf Club and generously hosted our Annual Pilot Golf Outing each of the last several years.

Extended Family

Peter Modaff, ‘52. January 26, 2015.

Thomas Becksvoort, April 27, 2014. Father of Blake Becksvoort (‘13).

James Kilroy, SJ ‘42. March 2, 2015 Donald Griesmer, ‘46. March 3, 2015. Brother of the late James Griesmer (‘47). Don was a graduate of the United States Naval Academy. He earned degrees in Nuclear Engineering at North Carolina State University, and in Business Administration and Management from the MIT. An Air Force Second Lieutenant, he had a 30-year military career as a pilot, a project officer for nuclear weapons effects testing, and project manager for missile and satellite programs. He was the Executive Officer for the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Research and Development in

Don Perry, ‘56. September 1, 2015. Don was President of the Class of 1956.

Catherine Andary, January 21, 2015. Wife of Lee Andary (‘49). Miriam Beattie, December 29, 2014. Wife of John Beattie (‘38), who passed away January 5, 2015.

Tony Bertoni, January 27, 2015. Father of Tony Bertoni (‘71).

Sal Porcasi, ‘55. November 15, 2014.

Joan Cavanaugh, January 10, 2015. Wife of Don Cavanaugh (‘50).

Richard Rinke, ‘50. March 28, 2015.

Jessica Cendrowski, January 25, 2015. Mother of Stephen Cendrowski (‘85).

1960’s

James Gavin, ‘67. January 24, 2015.

Joseph Cera, January 27, 2015. Father of Vincent Cera (‘65).

John Grozenski, ‘66. February 1, 2015. Father of Romin Grozenski (‘00).

Luka Tomas Chovich, January 17, 2015. Brother of Zenon Chovich

In Memoriam Sister Nancy Bartolo, IHM, February 3, 2015. Math teacher at DLS from 1990-2001. Sister Nancy was born in 1931 in Brooklyn New York. Her father died shortly after her birth, and she was raised by relatives. She attended school in Brooklyn before the family moved to Michigan. She attended Holy Redeemer and Sacred Heart High School in Dearborn. She entered the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary of Monroe in 1949, receiving the religious name of Sister Bartholomew. She earned degrees from Marygrove College and Wayne State University. Her early teaching ministries at the elementary level included Holy Name (Birmingham); St. Catherine, Annunciation, and Christ the King (Detroit); and Sacred Heart (Roseville). Her high school teaching stops included Bishop Gallagher (Harper Woods), Marian (Bloomfield Hills), and Shrine Catholic (Royal Oak). She joined the DLS teaching staff in 1990. Although retiring from the classroom in 2001, Sister Nancy continued to substitute teach and volunteer for school retreats. In 2011, she moved from Warren to the IHM Motherhouse, and enjoyed volunteering among the Motherhouse community.

(‘17), and Zoran Chovich (‘18). Luka, age 12, bravely fought cancer for ten months.

Paul Morath, January 5, 2015. Father of David Morath (‘89), and Daniel Morath (‘91).

John Crudder, January 14, 2015. Father of Robert Crudder (‘74), James Crudder (‘75), and Mark Crudder (‘76). Grandfather of Steve Crudder (‘06), David Crudder (‘13), Dan Wagner (‘11), and Colin Roach (‘16).

Donna Quinn, January 27, 2015. Wife of Jerry Quinn (SJ ‘55). Sister of Hank Hughes (‘66). Grandmother of William (‘03), Matthew (‘05), and James Burkhardt (‘08).

Ryan Gasparovich, March 1, 2015. Son of John Gasparovich (‘80).

Dolores Rusch, November 30, 2014. Mother of Robert Rusch (‘72), Mark Rusch (‘75), and Gary Rusch (‘79).

Maria Genovese, February 19, 2015. Mother of Joseph Genovese (‘98).

Constance Schuster, January 22, 2015. Wife of Glenn Schuster (‘41).

George Glass, December 25, 2015. Father of Ronald Glass (‘57), and Gordon Glass (‘61). George was an active member of the DLS Dads’ Club until recently. He collected admission before all home DLS basketball games for many years.

Tom Tramski, April 25, 2014. Former DLS Head Football and Basketball Coach in the 1960’s.

Charles Graus, January 16, 2015, and Rose Graus, January 30, 2015. Parents of Steve Graus (‘74). Grandparents of Andrew Graus (‘07). John Hallman, June 29, 2014. Father of John Hallman (‘72), and Phil Hallman (‘80). Patricia Jurewicz, March 16, 2014. Wife of Richard Jurewicz (‘65). Edward Forseth King, January 5, 2015. Brother-in-law to John C. Monigold (‘66). Justin Krause, recently in S. Korea. Son of Paul Krause (‘65). Ann Kratochwill, December 8, 2014. Wife of Michael Kratochwill (‘47).

George VanHouw, January 21, 2015. Father of Keith VanHouw (‘93), and Mark VanHouw (‘95). George served as President of the DLS Dads’ Club and was a former DLS Staff Member. Thomas Walker, December 20, 2014. Grandfather of Shannon Haag, active member of the CBA. Great-grandfather of Chris Haag (‘14) and Adam Haag (‘16). Norma Wegrzynowicz, January 3, 2015. Wife of Stan Wegrzynowicz, (‘54). Mother of Matt Wegrzynowicz (‘85) and Mark Wegrzynowicz (‘88).

Annual Alumni Memorial Mass Sunday, May 3 at noon in the DLS Chapel.

the

Behind The Scenes

Collegiate Fall 2014

The Cover That Was… and Wasn’t

But what to put on the Winter cover? We had a story about the DLS archives, and our plans to digitize the photos, programs, and yearbooks. How about a cover with a careful arrangement of DLS and St. Joe items. A woolen St. Joseph’s Commercial baseball uniform, circa 1930’s. Trophies. Plaques. We think it’s an important project. So, we staged the photo. Cover done. Or was it? 38

In early October, the varsity football team had a 3-3 record, with those three L’s coming in the final moments. Heartbreakers for Pilot fans at the game, and for alumni around the country listening in to the live play-by-play from our Student Broadcast Club. But then the team turned a corner, finishing the season at 6-3, earning a spot in the Division 2 playoffs that began on October 31. The Pilots easily won the opening playoff game against Grosse Pointe North, and followed up with the District Championship win over East English Village. Now we were in mid-November. A regional championship game against Brother Rice. A stun-

ning DLS upset of the two-time defending Division 2 State Champions on November 15.. Four days to print. Should we swap out the archive photo for a picture from the game? A game played in cold, blowing conditions? A game with lots of heroes. And what if we were to win the semi-final against Southfield? And go to the State Finals? Our Advancement Team gathered and talked through the pros and cons. If we delayed for the cover, how much later would the 13,000 on our mailing list receive The Collegiate? But if we won the state championship, we would be forever kicking ourselves, having lost an opportunity to show our Pilot Pride. State Championships are elusive. De La Salle had never won a state football championship, despite two previous trips to the title game in the past ten years. The rest, as they say, is history. The Pilots defeated Southfield in the semi-final, and won a spot at Ford Field for the Championship on November 28. Gregg Mack, who takes thousands of sports photos through his business MrMack.com, was on the field as De La Salle rolled over Muskegon Mona Shores 44 -8. The following Monday, he brought in several shots of the team holding up the trophy. In the first few, the trophy was facing away from the camera, until Gregg caught the attention

the

Since The Collegiate went to full color in 2011, courtesy of Paul Zimmer (‘66), and Allied Printing, we have tried to make the cover of each issue special. A stand-alone photo that says something unique about De La Salle and Lasallian education.

Collegiate

of Senior Captain Mike Danna. Trophy held up in the air, facing the camera. A perfect cover photo. Send the files to Allied. We’re done. But not quite. The euphoria over winning the State Championship was electrifying. We started getting requests for state championship apparel. Sweatshirts. Hats. T-shirts. And so we decided that the trophy photo would make a nifty poster. Something a student could pin up in his room. A point of pride for an alumnus with an office bulletin board. A framed souvenir of a glorious run. We still have a few State Championship 2014 posters left in the Pilot Hangar, but only a few. And that other cover? Maybe we’ll make a poster of that sometime, too. Vicki Granger Director of Communications The Collegiate Editor

De La Salle Collegiate High School 14600 Common Road, Warren, MI 48088

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