ALUMINATOR - Spring 2019

SPRING 2019

VOL. 68, NO. 3

FR. DENNIS NOELKE, C.S.B. ‘71 CC’S

PRINCIPAL

RETIRES

F R. J O H N W H E E L E R , C.S.B. ‘5 7 C E L E B R AT E S 5 0 t h A N N I V E R S A R Y

CADILLAC of NOVI Edward J. Pobur Class of ‘81 (248)476-4466 ALL NEW 2019 CADILLAC

XT4

Editor in Chief: Mike Carrier ’06

Editors: Sue Martin Rudy Seichter ’59 Contributions: Warren Dietz ’19 Patrick Lee ’19 Jack Rajkovich ’67 Rev. William Riegel, C.S.B. Peter Shaheen

Design & Production: Anne Ink, LLC Detroit Catholic Central High School Administration: President - Ed Turek ’85 eturek@catholiccentral.net

ESCALADE

Principal - Rev. Dennis Noelke, C.S.B. ’71 dnoelke@catholiccentral.net The Aluminator is published three times every year by the Detroit Catholic Central Office of Advancement and Alumni Relations.

Circulation: 9,250 Submissions can be emailed to: aluminator@catholiccentral.net Submissions can be mailed to: The Aluminator Detroit Catholic Central High School 27225 Wixom Road Novi, MI 48374 To reach the Office of Advancement and Alumni Relations: (248) 596-3838 Fax: (248) 596-3839

THE BEST WAY TO HELP YOU FIND THE PERFECT CAR IS TO SIMPLY LISTEN, AT CADILLAC OF NOVI... WE HEAR YOU

For Information: Director of Advancement Dan Collins Jr. ’84 (248) 596-3834 dcollins@catholiccentral.net Or visit us on the Web: www.catholiccentral.net On the Cover:

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Spring 2019

Managing Editors: Tim Burke ’86 Dan Collins Jr. ’84 Janice Sharkey Ed Turek ’85

Photography: Denny Barnes ’79 Scott Confer Anne Ink, LLC Mike Rossi - http://MichaelRossiPhotography.com

2018 CADILLAC

VOL. 68, NO. 3

Fr. Dennis Noelke, C.S.B. ’71 with Alex McLaren ’16 and Jackson Schleuning ’16

Page 6

Page 22

Page 39

In This Issue FEATURES Ed Turek ’85 Named President of Catholic Central Alumni News Catching Up With… Mr. Petrovich and Mr. Rossi On the 50th Anniversary of Graduation - The Class of 1968 Brings Us Up To Date Alumni Association News Advancement News

2 3 8 10 12 18

LEAD ARTICLE The Road Back Home - Fr. Dennis Noelke, C.S.B. ’71 Fr. John Wheeler, C.S.B. ’57 Celebrates 50 Years of Priesthood

22 24

The Easter Season at Catholic Central In Memoriam

26 28

SCHOOL NEWS The DRIVE Results School Bells Sports Break Keep Up With CC Online

31 32 40 44

A Note from the Editor Many of you tell me that you begin reading your Aluminator by looking at “Alumni News.” Please don’t forget that those are the parts that we cannot include without help from you. We need you to send us updates of your milestones and accomplishments. Your travels and other activities are also of interest to your classmates.

Submissions: For inclusion in the next issue of the Aluminator, all updates, articles, and photos must be received by June 30, 2019. Email submissions to: aluminator@catholiccentral.net. You may also mail your materials to us at: The Aluminator, Detroit Catholic Central High School, 27225 Wixom Road, Novi, MI 48374.

Digital photographs: Please provide the original electronic file. Digital photographs should be shot as large a size and in as high a resolution as possible for the camera used, with care being taken to get a sharp image. This yields the best printing results. Please send the raw or uncompressed original TIFF file or high-resolution JPEG as an attachment.

Do not open and adjust or re-save into any other format. Photos should not be embedded into a Word document.

Ed Turek ’85

Named President of Catholic Central At the unanimous recommendation of the Board of Directors of Detroit Catholic Central High School, the Basilian Superior General, Fr. Kevin Storey, C.S.B., has appointed Mr. Ed Turek ’85 as the school’s 5th President in its proud 90-year history. Ed was selected from a nationwide pool of candidates after a four-month search.

ALUMNI

NEWS

Staying Connected With Your Classmates THE NIFTY ’50s 1955 - GEORGE COLBURN came home to CC a couple of times during the school year to speak with students in the English and Cinema Production classes. George has over 50 years of experience in the education, writing, directing, and production fields. His current documentary, Young Hemingway & His Enduring Eden, focuses on Ernest Hemingway’s youthful summers in northern Michigan and the impact they had on his Nobel Prize winning career as a writer.

THE TECHNO ’80s 1985 - JEFF RADTKE’s son, Harry, recently enjoyed his first meal of peas while wearing his brand new CC bib. Jeff and his wife live in Norwalk, Connecticut.

THE HAPPENING ’90s 1992 - ORIN MAZZONI III came home to CC and spoke with students in the Cinema Production classes. Orin produced and directed the documentary, Sharing The Rough. On his trip back to the Detroit area, he visited with his future Shamrock nephew, Atreyu Kramar.

Orin lives in California with his family.

“I am honored and humbled to be appointed as the first lay President in CC history. The Basilian Fathers were instrumental in my educational and spiritual growth, and to be able to work to advance the rich history and tradition of my Alma Mater is a dream come true.”

Ed assumed his formal duties on March 25th. Fr. Richard Elmer, C.S.B. ’46 will return to his active role as President Emeritus after serving as the Interim President during the search.

Ed has a strong track record of commitment to Catholic education and has served the

THE PSYCHEDELIC ’60s

Catholic Central community in a number of ways over the years. He was the Director of

1968 - HON. ROBERT COLOMBO JR. was the recipient of the Dennis W. Archer Public Service Award from the Detroit Bar Association Foundation in 2018.

Judge Colombo recently retired as Chief Judge of the Third Judicial Circuit Court in Wayne County.

Admissions and Public Relations from 1997-2003, Vice President of Advancement from Ed Turek ’85

2003-2006, and has been serving as Executive Director of Advancement since 2017.

He also served as President of St. Catherine of Siena Academy, an all-girls Catholic high school in Wixom from 2015-2017.

From 2006-2015, Ed was in the business world with a consulting and marketing company aimed at helping schools and non-profit entities.

As a student at Catholic Central, Ed was awarded the Fr. James Whelan Award, which is the highest honor that can be given to a Shamrock student-athlete. After graduation from CC, he moved on to the University of Michigan, earning a Bachelor of Science degree as well as a Master of Science degree.

The search for Catholic Central’s 5th President was conducted by an eight-member Presidential Search Committee chaired

by Carmine Palombo ’70. It consisted of a combination of current faculty, board members, Basilian Fathers, alumni, and a trusted administrator from another successful Catholic High School. A national search firm also assisted in the process.

THE GROOVY ’70s 1978 - ROB GONZALEZ and his son, Rob, visited CC on February 8, 2019. Rob was in town from Frisco, Texas, for the 40th Anniversary of Michigan State’s 1979 Basketball National Championship. Rob was a member of the Spartans team along with Rick Kaye ’77.

1998 - TIM ZAJAROS co-founded Armory Films in 2013, a film company in Los Angeles, California. They recently released a film called Arctic starring Mads Mikkelsen.

INVITATION FOR THE

CLASS OF 1969 ON THEIR 50TH ANNIVERSARY

Following the practice begun by the Class of 1965 on the 50th

One of Ed’s first duties will be to name a new Principal for the 2019-2020 school year, as current Principal,

anniversary of their graduation, we are inviting the Class of 1969

Fr. Dennis Noelke, C.S.B. ’71, is set to retire from the role at the end of the school year. The search is ongoing.

to submit their biographies for inclusion in the next issue of the Aluminator. Please email us an item of 200 to 300 words by no later than July 5, 2019. It should be written in the first person.

If possible, please send a JPEG picture of yourself including a descriptive caption.

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E D T U R E K ‘ 8 5 N A M E D P R E S I D E N T O F C AT H O L I C C E N T R A L • S P R I N G 2 0 1 9

ALUMNI NEWS • SPRING 2019

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THE VIRTUAL ’00s 2003 - CHARLIE KOVELLE and his wife, Rachel, welcomed their first child, Sofie Ella, on March 6, 2018.

Sofie weighed 9 lbs., 1 oz., and measured 22 inches. She was baptized at St. Mary Cathedral in Lansing on March 24, 2019.

2004 - DAN WATERSTRADT and his wife, Claire, welcomed their son, Nicholas Martin, on December 19, 2018. Nicholas weighed 5 lbs., 11 oz., and measured 19.25 inches. Dan is a former Admissions Director and basketball coach at CC. Claire is the daughter of Susan Martin, the Assistant to the Principal at CC.

2006 - NICK AIELLO, DR. JESSE ZRULL, DR. GAVIN AMBROSI, and MIKE CARRIER reunited for an impromptu photo at CC on April 10, 2019. Jesse and Gavin spoke with sophomore students about careers in medicine. Nick and Mike are faculty members at CC.

2006 - CRAIG WERNER and his wife, Michelle Dionne, were married on September 1, 2018, at St. Louis the King Catholic Church in Marquette. The couple resides in Clarkston.

2007 - JAKE MARMUL and his wife, Nicole, welcomed their daughter, Ada Elizabeth, on November 17, 2018. Ada weighed 7 lbs., 7 oz., and measured 20.25 inches.

Jake is the Admissions Director and a lacrosse coach at CC. 2008 - GREG MERRILL is a Financial Advisor for The Shantz Mantione Group - UBS Private Wealth Management in Stamford, Connecticut. He was recently awarded the Certified Exit Planning Advisor designation and has completed his work with the Exit Planning Institute to form and launch the Southeast Michigan Chapter of the Exit Planning Institute.

THE CONNECTED ’10s 2013 - MATTHEW CONFER and Sierra Fish were married on June 28, 2018, at the Inn at St. John’s in Plymouth.

Fr. John Huber, C.S.B. celebrated the wedding Mass.

2005, 2008, and 2012 - MATT WALTERS, DREW WALTERS, MIKE McCANN, and AARON WALTERS attended the 2019 NCAA Men’s Final Four in Minneapolis.

In the wedding party, but not pictured: Andrew Chrzasz ’06

4

ALUMNI NEWS • SPRING 2019

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The newlyweds currently reside in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, where Sierra is teaching 3rd grade, and Matthew is completing his Ph.D. in chemical engineering at the University of Alabama. Matthew and Sierra are very thankful to all the CC family in attendance.

2014 - MALIK AMINE finished his collegiate wrestling career as a twotime NCAA Qualifier for the University of Michigan. Malik helped lead the Wolverines to a 5th Place finish in the final team standings at the NCAA Wrestling Championships in Pittsburgh.

Left to right: Jake Porter ’08, Daniel Porter ’05, Dan Gill ’05, Max Weger ’05, Bobby Martin ’03, Craig Werner ’06, Michelle Dionne, Matt Gill ’06, Adam Dubois ’06, David Schmeling ’06, Michael Kreager ’05, and Justin Hyser ’05

Matt Walters ’05, Drew Walters ’08, Mike McCann ’08, and Aaron Walters ’12

HEALTH AND LIFE INSURANCE

2007 - NIEKO IANNI and his wife, Karen, welcomed their daughter, Genevieve Jane, on December 6, 2018. Genevieve weighed 7 lbs., 8 oz., and measured 21 inches. Nieko is an English teacher at CC.

Pictured: Mitch Hancock ’00, Myles Amine ’15, Allie Hancock, Mike Bade, Julie Bade, Lisa Confer, Mike Babicz ’13, Deana Garcia, Dan Garcia, Sierra Fish Confer, Matthew Confer ’13, Malik Amine ’14, Mike Carrier ’06, Nieko Ianni ’07, Theresa Green, Karen Ianni, Amanda Price, Daria Files, Scott Confer, Greg Roble, Marcy Amine, Marissa Amine, Mike Amine, Bob Moreau ’75, Sarah Biondo, Anthony Biondo, Don Babicz, Brandon Malinowski ’13, Marc Lorelli ’92, and Bill Green In attendance, but not pictured: Fr. John Huber, C.S.B., Fr. Dennis Kauffman, C.S.B., Fr. Rob Moslosky, C.S.B., Greg Normandin ’78, Carolyn Normandin, Colleen Moreau, Jordan Reilly ’08, Joey Hamilton ’13, and Ken Bade ’13

2014 - CHRIS DULZO and his wife, Bridget, welcomed their son, Owen, on January 11, 2019. Owen weighed 7 lbs., 13 oz., and measured 19 inches. Bridget is the daughter of Mike Dewan ’85.

ALUMNI NEWS • SPRING 2019

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2017 - NICK CAPATINA is a student at the University of Michigan and a member of the Wolverines football team.

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2017 - MARCUS CIPRIANO and NICK O’DEA are playing baseball for Schoolcraft College and Kalamazoo Valley Community College respectively. They competed against each other in games on March 26th. Tommy Turek ’18 also plays baseball for Schoolcraft College.

Left to right: Shivam Chandra ’18, Albert Asta ’16, Philip Schmitz ’16, Evan Shoup ’16, and Gavin Spisak ’14

2015 - MYLES AMINE became a three-time All-American after finishing in 3rd Place at the NCAA Wrestling Championships in Pittsburgh. Myles helped lead the Michigan Wolverines to a 5th Place finish in the final team standings. Myles also earned Academic All-Big Ten honors.

2016 - AARON REHFELDT earned Academic All-Big Ten honors as a member of the Ohio State Buckeyes wrestling team this past season. Ohio State finished as Runner-up at the NCAA Wrestling Championships in Pittsburgh.

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ALUMNI NEWS • SPRING 2019

Roy Wilson ’00 Realtor Associate

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2017 - JACKSON ROSS earned Academic All-Big Ten honors as a member of the Michigan State Spartans wrestling team this past season.

2017 - ALEX WAGNER earned 3rd Place honors in the University of Michigan Undergraduate Hopwood Poetry Competition. His poetry collection is titled, Under the Christmas Lights.

1

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2017 - TYLER MORLAND was an NCAA Qualifier for the Northwestern Wildcats wrestling team this past season and earned Academic All-Big Ten honors.

2017 - DAVIS RASTIGUE was named to the National Wrestling Coaches Association Division II All-Academic Team as a member of the Wheeling Jesuit University Cardinals wrestling team this past season.

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ALUMNI NEWS • SPRING 2019

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C AT C H I N G

UP

WITH…

Spotlighting Alumni, Teachers, & Members of Our CC Family

A CANDID INTERVIEW WITH: Mr. Petrovich and Mr. Rossi Interview conducted by Patrick Lee ’19 on April 4, 2019 The difference between a great student and a great teacher at Catholic Central is that a

R: “As a teacher, you find out early that when you

special student will carry the tradition and improve upon it for four years, while a legendary

ask a question, it’s the same three kids that raise

teacher will do the same, but for 40 years. As my own four years of such efforts are

their hands, and the kids in the back, they don’t

drawing to a close, I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to sit down with two

wanna talk about anything to anybody. So, in order

such legends who really molded the current state of our beloved school: Mr. William

to eliminate that, I came up with rolling dice.

Petrovich and Mr. Michael Rossi. Both men, after having completed illustrious careers in

It was sort of a little joke, especially freshmen

education, are now retired, and they shared stories, memories, and nuggets of wisdom

coming in. I told them: ‘I don’t know your names.

from their tenures of mentoring the young men of Mary, Alma Mater.

I don’t wanna know your names. Everybody’s got a number. It’s assigned by where you’re sitting.

Mr. Rossi, Patrick Lee ’19, and Mr. Petrovich

Row one, seat one, you’re 11. Row two, seat three

The Career

The Craft

Mr. Petrovich (P): “You know, you didn’t know

P: “The clock said, correct me if I’m wrong: It’s time to listen to the Maestro.”

if you would be a teacher for your whole career.

R: “You know I don’t know where that name came from.”

We talked about it endlessly. You do it for a while,

P: “You really don’t?”

and you do it longer, you get better at it, and your

R: “I don’t. For the first, I’d say, ten or fifteen years

teaching becomes your craft. And once you can

I taught here, they’d call me “Rip” or “Ripper.” I do

hit that point where your teaching is actually your

know where that came from. I made a mistake. It was

craft, then you’re on your way to just being a great

my first year here. We were doing a lesson on Roman

teacher, and learning how to affect lots of lives in

names, and they often had nicknames. A student

a positive way.”

asked me if you ever had a nickname when you were

Mr. Rossi (R): “Well said, Mr. Petrovich.”

a kid. I said, ‘Well, yes.’ In little league I was pitching

P: “The only thing I really loved was literature and

for St. Veronica’s, an east side school, and there was a

music, so I think I would have to adopt what a good

little weekly newspaper that did sports, and they wrote

friend of mine, his attitude, Gene Grewe, he said,

a little article, and it said, if I can remember correctly, (my mother framed this as one of my

‘I get paid for doing this every day… how could you

great moments in life), “And Rip Rossi chucked a five hitter as St. Veronica defeated JCs,

not do this every day?’ So when you and I would

and this dude just made this up! You know, nobody ever knew my name, so everybody

talk, I would think there were other possibilities,

on the team got all pumped about it, put my name “Rip” on the back of the jersey, and

but I really enjoyed coming to this school, Catholic

since that day in class in 1976 until the at least the mid-80s, mid-90s maybe, students just

Central. I look back at 40 years, 31 of them here,

called me that, and I didn’t mind. Some people might be upset, you know, call the teacher

and I say I enjoyed every year… I really enjoyed

“Rip” or “Maestro.” I took that as endearment, and I took that as a sign that they were

just about every day…

close to me; we were close, you know.”

I would also quote Theodore Roethke, the

…

American poet, ‘We learn by going where we

P: “I also learned early on that we got guys’ attention

have to go,’ and I think that’s what happens to

for 14 minutes, so every 14 mins you have to do

everybody.”

something funny and then you can refocus everyone’s

R: “There were times when I just momentarily

attention, and that’s how I used the various gadgets.

thought I’d like to try something different, but in ‘76

Some of my funny ones, the Grammar Car, which I

signed 31 year, no-cut, no-trade clause, so really,

passed on to Mrs. Storm. And the Grammar Belt I think

I had no other choice. Every now and then I just

was a great incentive for this school because you say

for a minute thought about it, come in the next

‘whoever gets the highest score on the grammar test

morning… beautiful. And I thought, ‘what was

gets the grammar belt,’ they study for the extra… for

I thinking?’”

hours.”…

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C AT C H I N G U P W I T H … M R . P E T R O V I C H A N D M R . R O S S I • S P R I N G 2 0 1 9

you’re 23.’ I thought it would be best to take two die, so I’d ask a question, I didn’t want them to raise their hands, I wanted it to be chance — involve

up here, and you have leaders in class with you who are raising others up, the result

everybody. So I’d roll these dice… I did alter it a little

is just gonna happen. I’m embarrassed when people say, you know, “How was your

later. I used Pokémon cards. Everybody had to

year at CC?” 4 state championships, ACT scores are sky high. Every day is so great…

pick a name, and I’d shuffle the deck and say

The school has such a large cream of the crop and such a small bottom. How do you

‘Ok, Squirtle, what’s the dative case of… and then

communicate that to somebody who’s not a part of it?”

I’d ask a question, so we had a lot of fun.

R: “My word for them was VGBs. Walk into Catholic Central, you see a lot of VGBs.

P: “The power of a

Very Good Boys. Like Bill said, they resist it sometimes, but deep down inside they

teacher’s personality is

knew they were VGBs.

the most important thing

P: “I’ve reflected, later in life, CC Boys always turn out. Summer school kids who are

in a classroom. So, you

struggling, who are rough around the edges, coming from wherever they come from.

had lots of interesting

They always turn out.”

things to look at, but the

R: “One of the great pleasures of teaching for me has always been seeing young,

power of your personality

timid, insecure freshmen walk in here, and four years later they walk out confident

is always what made it

young men who are going to do the world’s good. It’s a beautiful thing to see, really,

succeed.”

from a teacher’s point of view. Those four years, as any parent will tell you, they go by

R: “That’s very important.”

so quickly, but they really do.”

P: “That’s always the way it is.”

R: “The student has to know that you are on his

The Family

side and you are there for him to learn. Some

P: “My oldest of 3 grandsons, we talk a lot and I asked him the other day. Lowell,

classrooms in other schools you don’t see that.

I said, ‘What is your dream, Lowell?” He said: “My dream is, I want to play hockey

I can remember in high school there were classes in

for CC.’ That’s what he wants to do.”

high school where I just dreaded walking in… I just

“I want to say that the happiest part of my teaching career was teaching with

never wanted that to be a part of my experience.”

[my daughter] Leah (shown left) for ten years… All the laughs we had, Mrs. Storm, all the fun we had, was really something beautiful for her to be able to come here.

The Difference

There’s a lot of joy here.”

P: “Catholic Central sets the bar way up here. That

Mr. Rossi, what made you stay for all those years? Did you ever think anything else was

is just not true at many other schools. Of course,

for you?

students will compete against each other at an

R: “I don’t know. I don’t know. Just the fact that I LOVED DOING IT. And I didn’t think

all-guys school. I never saw that in an unhealthy

I’d love doing anything else as much. So, no, [something else] was not for me.”

way. I saw it as a positive thing. When the bar is C AT C H I N G U P W I T H … M R . P E T R O V I C H A N D M R . R O S S I • S P R I N G 2 0 1 9

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ON THE FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF THEIR GRADUATION

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T H E

Catholic Central is thrilled to share the news of our new Community Partnership with Joe Maiorana ’77 and Joe’s Produce Gourmet Market & Catering! Joe’s is now the Preferred Catering

C L A S S

O F

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Partner of Catholic Central High School. Contact Joe’s for all of your catering needs & receive your exclusive CC Discount. Call Laura Livingston, Catering Director at (248) 477-4333, ext. 226 or visit to www.joesgourmetcatering.com

BRING US UP TO DATE...

In the Fall 2015 issue of the Aluminator, we began the practice of featuring biographies of those who were celebrating the 50th anniversary of their graduation from CC. Below are a couple submissions from the Class of 1968 who celebrated their reunion last fall.

Over the course of my career as a professional

In 1980 I hit the “reset” button and returned to

artist, I have had numerous one-person and

Alabama. With much soul searching and study,

group exhibitions throughout the country and

I earned my Professional Engineers license

abroad, including a major one-person exhibition

and was ready for a new start. I headed west

of my work at the University of Louisville in

to San Diego and a new career in consulting

January 2018. I have work in public and private

engineering. I was designing electrical

collections, including the Speed Art Museum, 21c

systems for buildings instead of installing them.

Hotels, and Eastman Kodak among others.

I finally loved work, but something was still

JAMES GRUBOLA ’68 In the fifty years since I graduated from Catholic Central, each year has been spent in school in one way or another. The first four were at Wayne State University where I graduated in 1972

year, I have decided that this will be my last. I

So, two years later, I moved east to Bethesda,

have been married to my wife, Kay, who is also

Maryland. At 35, I learned to ski. When a

an artist, for 46 years. We have a daughter who

construction industry recession hit in 1993,

is a professional ballerina, teacher, author, and

I spent a season in Breckenridge, Colorado,

mother of our granddaughter and a son who is

as a “ski bum” waiting tables at night and skiing

an artist, designer, former hockey goalie, and

every day. I started playing Ultimate Frisbee at 39,

father of our grandson.

when most people retire from the sport. I played for 28 incredible years in the Washington Area

with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in drawing

Frisbee Club.

and printmaking. I then moved on to Indiana University where I completed my Master of Fine

In 2001, I reconnected with Barbara, whom

Arts degree in May of 1975. That fall I accepted

I first met in 1984. She teaches at the University

a full-time teaching position at the University of

of Alabama. Since our marriage in 2005,

Louisville, where I started and have headed the

I have commuted for work from Tuscaloosa to

drawing program for the last 44 years.

Bethesda. “Thank you” Southwest Airlines.

During my tenure at U of L, I have had the

I am now semi-retired with full retirement planned

opportunity to develop curriculum and work with

in 2019 at our home on the Black Warrior River

terrific students from beginners with little or no

in Tuscaloosa. My journey will be complete.

art experience to graduate students preparing to begin their own careers. I also served administratively as Chair of the Department of Fine Arts and Director of the Hite Art Institute for

We have started playing golf and tennis (sports JOEL KUCHARSKI ’68

I had not played since the 80s), which along

Can it really be 50 years?

with volunteer work and travel, should keep us

Looking back, I realize that

busy enough.

17 years. I have been privileged to have been

my life has been blessed.

named a University Distinguished Teaching

Born and raised in Michigan, when I finished at

student, or the really popular guy in the class.

CC, I was ready for warmer climes. I headed

My influences were Mr. Rybarz, mechanical

south to the University of Alabama and graduated

drawing/art teacher; Coach Smith, cross country/

in 1973 with a B.S. in Electrical Engineering. I

track; and truly “all” of my classmates. I was

returned north to work at my father’s electrical

blessed to have just been a member of the

construction firm. I loved working with my dad,

Class of ’68.

Professor and the recipient of the University Trustees Award, given each year to the faculty member who has had the greatest positive impact on students. I am also the recipient of the Red Apple Award for teaching excellence given by the Alumni Association.

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Fellow Shamrocks,

Save T he Date

2019 Legacy Reunion Mass & Luncheon

“Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future.” – John F. Kennedy

Please Pray With Us!

Detroit Catholic Central has been constantly evolving and looking to the

…in the Catholic Central Chapel

future since it was founded 90 years ago. CC’s multiple westward moves

Mass – 7:20 am Every School-Day Morning

of its building location were proactive steps to be well-positioned for the demographics of the Catholic school population throughout varying decades. The school has added sports and extracurricular programs such as lacrosse, rugby, robotics, and finance that prior generations would have never even considered. These changes have helped CC maintain its excellence over the years, and today’s teachers, coaches, and leaders at the school are continually working to find new ways to better themselves and the students.

Presently, our school is embarking upon another exciting period of change in its history as both the president and principal positions will be filled by new people. Fr. John Huber, C.S.B. and Fr. Dennis Noelke, C.S.B. ’71 have been wise and inspirational leaders of our alma mater for several years, and CC remains a premier Catholic educational institution because of their

Save the Date!

Join us in Traverse City The 4th annual Shamrocks in Traverse City Reunion Saturday, August 24, 2019 5:00 pm Traverse City Country Club

guidance. We are thankful for their service and commitment as they move on to the next phase of their work as Basilians.

On March 14, 2019, Ed Turek ’85, was named the school’s 5th President. Ed is the first lay person to have that position and will be an outstanding leader for the school. The job of leading a modern Catholic high school has changed exponentially over the decades. In fact, CC had never even had a president until Fr. Richard Elmer, C.S.B. ’46 was named to the newly created position in 2000. But in today’s competitive, ever-changing world, a multi-talented president is a necessity. At CC, the president’s role now oversees a complex organization that includes students, faculty, thousands of alumni, a large facility and grounds, endowment, fundraising… the list could go on for several lines.

One of Ed’s first priorities will be to lead the selection of CC’s next principal. Together, Ed and

75th BOYS’ BOWL HOMECOMING Hall of Fame Reunion Weekend September 27-28-29, 2019

Friday, September 27th - Boys’ Bowl Assembly 9:30 am (Robert Santello ’58 Gymnasium) Saturday, September 28th - Class Reunions at CC 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm $35 per person (Includes: Food, Beer, Wine, and Beverage) Sunday, September 29th Mass & Breakfast – Athletic Hall of Fame Inductions 9:00 am (Robert Santello ’58 Gymnasium) Please Note: new Mass time

1:00 pm (Fr. Richard Elmer, C.S.B. ’46 Stadium) Register online today! www.catholiccentral.net/alumni/eventcalendar Questions? Contact the Office of Alumni Relations at (248) 596-3838.

Detroit Catholic Central. We have all benefited from and contributed to the school CC is today,

Alumni Association Mission Statement The mission of the Catholic Central Alumni Association is to provide services, benefits, and activities of interest to the alumni, to foster an

While having a lay president is a new path for the school, we are blessed to have one of our CC brothers taking the reins. This will ensure that while looking to the future, we are very connected

alumni, young and old, to stand on as you lead CC into the future.

alumni body which is interested and

“He’s not heavy, he’s my brother.” - slogan of Father Flanagan’s Boys’ Town, CC’s famous and

involved in the affairs and functions

historic Boys’ Bowl rival

of the school, and to provide such assistance to the school as may from time to time be requested of it.

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CC Athletic Hall of Fame - Class of 2019 On Sunday, September 29, 2019, the CC Athletic Hall of Fame - Class of 2019 will be inducted at a ceremony which will take place just prior to the conclusion of Boys’ Bowl Mass. The Class of 2019 includes:

to the proud, dynamic, and important history of Detroit Catholic Central. Ed, we wish you the best of luck in this important calling, but also know that you have the shoulders of thousands of

When: Wednesday, June 12, 2019 (Mass at 11:00 am followed by lunch) Where: Catholic Central Chapel and Cafeteria For this gathering, we continue to include all of those classes that are 50 or more years removed from their CC graduation. This includes alumni from our first three school buildings on Harper Avenue, Belmont Avenue, and Outer Drive!

For the first time, we welcome the Class of 1969 who will be celebrating their 50th Anniversary of graduation in the fall.

In addition, we will celebrate the 70th Reunion of the Class of 1949!

Reunions 2019 Boys’ Bowl Weekend at Catholic Central Boys’ Bowl 2019 will be the focal point for the following classes celebrating reunions this year:

won’t be doing it alone. As alumni, we all share the opportunity and responsibility to support

that exists for young men.

What: Legacy Reunion Mass and Luncheon (formerly known as the Harper/Belmont Reunion)

75th Boys’ Bowl Game – CC vs. Brother Rice

the new principal will continue our tradition of Goodness, Discipline, and Knowledge, but they

and together we will continue to make it the best possible spiritual and educational institution

Who: Alumni from the Classes of 1929 to 1969

Robert Galvin ’49 Ron Gutowski ’68 Randy Larsen ’79 Marty Scanlon

1978 Wrestling Team 1979 Baseball Team 1983 Wrestling Team 1994 Hockey Team

The induction ceremony will take place just prior to the end of Mass.

Please note: New Mass time this year! Mass begins at 9:00 am. The Hall of Fame class will also be recognized at halftime of the 75th Boys’ Bowl game.

Class of 1954 Class of 1959 - 60 years Class of 1964 Class of 1969 - 50 years Class of 1974 Class of 1979 Class of 1984 Class of 1989 Class of 1994 - 25 years Class of 1999 The Class of 2014 will gather to celebrate their 5-year reunion on Friday, November 29, 2019.

Scott Hauncher ’89 - Alumni Association President

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION NEWS • SPRING 2019

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION NEWS • SPRING 2019

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Florida Reunion unites all ages of Alumni and extended CC Family

Career Guidance Conferences The Career Guidance Conferences connect CC students and alumni with one another in the mission of learning and living Goodness, Discipline, and Knowledge. Alumni come home to CC to speak with the sophomores about career paths and being young men of Goodness, Discipline, and Knowledge today’s world.

Throughout the school year, students and alumni connect in the classroom, as well as offsite, through teaching, mentoring and hands-on experience opportunities.

Jimmy Burns ’04 and Mitch Eisenstein ’05 - Accounting/Financial Planning/Marketing/ Sports Marketing & Management

Thank you to all the alumni who have shared their time and talents with the young men of CC.

Started by members of the Class of ’55: Bill Barr, Ray Billinghurst, Terry Brady, and John Ivers, and originally hosted by Terry and Karen Brady, the annual Florida Reunion welcomed 100+ Shamrock alumni and guests to sunny and beautiful Venice, Florida, on Saturday, March 30, 2019. The past several years, Mike Pachota ’71 and his wife, Donna, have hosted this great gathering at their fantastic restaurant, Sharky’s on the Pier, on Venice Beach. We were blessed to have Fr. Richard Elmer, C.S.B. ’46 celebrate Mass. The atmosphere, weather, CC camaraderie, food, and superb family hospitality was second to none! All CC alumni, family, and friends are welcome each year.

Save The Date...see you March 21, 2020, for next year’s reunion!

Orin Mazzoni III ’92 - Cinema Production Classes

Noah Kleedtke ’15 - Engineering

Greg Merrill ’08 and Brad Bocketti ’13 - Finance Club Corrigan O’Donohue ’87 and Kyle Smith ’04 - Law Services/Law Enforcement/ City Planning

Bill Downs III ’84 - Business/Entrepreneurship/Goal Planning George Colburn ’55 - English Classes

Colin Bonathan ’09 - Art & Design/Creative and Transportation Design 14

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION NEWS • SPRING 2019

Dr. Gavin Ambrosi ’06 and Dr. Jesse Zrull ’06 - Medical/Health Sciences

Shamrock Bar Association On February 19, 2019, the Shamrock Bar Association celebrated Mass and held a social gathering and meeting at CC. Over 40 CC alumni lawyers and judges were in attendance.

Special recognition and honors through the The Honorable Richard P. Hathaway ’68 Award were given to the late Hon. Thomas E. Brennan Sr. ’47, Michigan Supreme Court Justice and founder of Cooley Law School. His son, Hon. Thomas E. Brennan Jr. ’70 spoke eloquently on behalf of his father. Guest speaker, Dennis Barnes ’79, President-elect of the Michigan Bar Association and current CC School Board Member, gave an informative update on the Michigan Bar as well as Catholic Central. A special thank you to Fr. Richard Elmer, C.S.B. ’46 for celebrating Mass and to Dcn. Pat McDonald ’54 for assisting him. Pat is also an attorney.

The Shamrock Bar Association is planning a September 2019 event. For more information, please contact Mike Butler ’71, Dave Brauer ’84, Andrew Stevens ’00, or Bryan Genrich ’03 at C.C.Shamrockbar@gmail.com.

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION NEWS • SPRING 2019

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2019 CC Alumni Hockey

2019 Alumni Association Basketball League

2019 Alumni Association Softball League

CC Hockey Alumni Appreciation Night was held on January 26, 2019,

The CC Hockey Program is grateful for the enthusiasm of our CC brothers

at USA Hockey Arena. The Varsity team defeated U of D Jesuit 1-0.

throughout the years! You made a difference playing for the Shamrocks

The 14th season of the CC Alumni Association Basketball League

late May 2019. All games are played on CC’s campus. For this coming

There was an on-ice introduction of every alumni-player who attended

and still do today. Thank you for your continued prayers and support!

(AABL) wrapped up in late March. Overall, 16 teams competed

season, the teams will be comprised of CC alumni, fathers of alumni,

over the season. Thank you to all the players and families for

and/or current CC dads. Please contact the new AASL Commissioner,

making this year’s season another great success! Congratulations

Isaac Hester ’04 at Isaachester7@gmail.com if you want to play or put

to the Division Champions: Hoops We Did It Again (Belmont

a team together. Also, you are able to follow the AASL on Facebook at:

Division), Monstars (Breakfast Drive Division), and 12 Shamrocks

https://www.facebook.com/DCCAlumniSoftball/.

the game, as well as a meet and greet between the alumni and current players following the game at CJ’s Brewing Company. It was a great night for the CC Hockey Program!

A special thank you goes out to Mr. Mike Giordano, Tom Nugent ’78, the current coaches and players, and CJ’s Brewing Company for organizing and hosting the CC Hockey Program and families.

The Annual Alumni Hockey Games took place on March 24, 2019,

See everyone next season!

Season 6 of the Alumni Association Softball League (AASL) starts in

(Outer Drive Division). A special thank you to Andy

at USA Hockey Arena. Over 60 CC Alumni Hockey Players competed

Slankster ’94, Brian Doot ’03, David VanKerckhove ’99, and

in the two games. The alumni represented in the games ranged from

Michael McSweeney for keeping the AABL organized and running

class years 1964 to 2018.

smoothly. Also, thank you to the CC Athletic and Maintenance Departments. Next year’s season will begin in early January 2020.

A special “thank you” to John Dwyer ’09 and Aaron Babicz ’93 for running the league last season. Also, thank you to the CC Baseball Staff, Athletic Department, and Maintenance Crew for the use and upkeep of the fields.

If you are interested in playing or forming a team, please contact the AABL League Commissioner, Andy Slankster, at aslankster@slanksterfinancial.com or (248) 470-6098.

Breakfast Drive Champions - Monstars: Tim Dezelski ’09, John Dwyer ’09, Steve Harding ’09, John Rose ’09, Bryan Forte ’09, JD Field ’12, Kyle Cooper ’12, and Brett Smith ’09

Campus Crusade Reunions

Coach Magni and Former Runners at MSU

The 2018-2019 Campus Crusade Reunion

Breakfast Drive Division

tour concluded on April 5-6, 2019, with trips to

On Sunday, March 24, 2019, at Bravo in East Lansing, CC Cross

Miami University and the University of Dayton

Outer Drive Division Champions - 12 Shamrocks: Jordan

Country and Track & Field Head Coach, Tony Magni, gathered with

in Ohio. This semester we also hosted reunions

Yono ’12, Mike Mullen ’12, Mike Schultz ’12, Dominic

coaches and a few of their former CC runners attending Michigan State

at Michigan State University, Western Michigan

Etue ’12, Mark Becker ’12, Kyle Brunsmna ’12, Aaron Hess ’12,

University for a meal and fellowship.

University, Eastern Michigan University, and the

and Jamal Jasser ’12

University of Notre Dame. Over the course of the year, over 100 alumni gathered at more than a dozen colleges and universities throughout the State of Michigan and the midwest to share and

Eastern Michigan University

University of Notre Dame

Miami University

celebrate our CC brotherhood.

Many have asked why we do Campus Crusade

Outer Drive Division

Reunions. We do so because it is unique.

Belmont Division Champions - Hoops We Did It Again:

It is an expression of our love and appreciation

Keith Kompoltowicz ’97, Zach Lauer ’16, Austin Garvin ’16,

for our alumni. It is a way to celebrate their

Zac Garvin ’16, Chris Gismondi ’00, Mickey Carravallah ’08,

accomplishments in life beyond high school.

Matt Osterhout ’97, and Brian Koestering ’02

Perhaps most importantly, it is our way of letting them know we love them and care about them.

Front row, left to right: Coach Tony Magni and Coach Chuck Childress

It is the continuation of the promise made to them when they chose to attend Catholic Central.

CC is a lifetime decision, not a four year decision.

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University of Dayton

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION NEWS • SPRING 2019

Western Michigan University

Belmont Division

Back row, left to right: Coach Brian Wilson, Ty Buckley ’17, Brenden Hein ’16, Andy Wilson ’16, Brennan Koehler ’17, Avery Felty ’16, Brendan Canavan ’17, Ryan Whinnery ’17, and Coach Kevin Mason ’03 ALUMNI ASSOCIATION NEWS • SPRING 2019

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HELP

A

FEL LOW

…YOU

MAKE

A

SHAMROCK

DIFFERENCE

W E A R E I N T H E H O M E S T R E T C H O F O U R S C H O O L’ S F I S C A L Y E A R T H A T E N D S O N J U N E 3 0 , 2 0 1 9 .

If you have not already done so, please take a minute out of your day and invest in CC and our young men.

You Make A Difference! Tuition does NOT cover the entire cost of educating today’s Shamrocks. There is no better time than now to invest in your Shamrock brothers. You can make a one-time gift or take advantage of the option of making a recurring gift.

Catholic Central Alumni Owners & Management Obtain a residential mortgage from Success Mortgage Partners

by December 31, 2019, and we will give you a check for $1,000 at closing as our way of saying “Thank You.”

This chart helps put some perspective on your gift: Gift

Cost Per Day

Cost Per Month

$ 100 $0.27 $ 8.33 $ 250 $0.69 $20.83 $ 500 $1.37 $41.67 $1,000 $2.74 $83.33 Thank you for your continued prayers for and investment in Mary, Alma Mater and her young men.

Invest today at: www.catholiccentral.net or call Tim Burke ‘86 – CC Advancement and Alumni Relations (248) 596-3844.

THANK YOU

Owen V. Lee, Esq. ’88

F O R S U P P O R T I N G C AT H O L I C C E N T R A L - S AV E T H E D AT E

Vincent Lee ’53

Conventional • FHA • HARP Program • Purchase • Refinance • Reverse Mortgage • VA 2019 Donor Appreciation Night will take place on Friday, September 6, 2019.

PROUDLY SERVING: ALABAMA, ARKANSAS, COLORADO, FLORIDA, GEORGIA, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, KANSAS, KENTUCKY, MICHIGAN, MISSISSIPPI, MISSOURI, N. CAROLINA, S. CAROLINA,TENNESSEE, TEXAS, WISCONSIN, & WYOMING

Dinner Reception will begin at 5:00 pm at CC prior to kick-off of the CC vs. Toledo Whitmer football game.

Goodness, Discipline, and Knowledge

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A D VA N C E M E N T N E W S • S P R I N G 2 0 1 9

(734) 927-1888 info@smprate.com successmortgagepartners.com http://nmlsconsumeraccess.org/EntityDetails.aspx/COMPANY/130562

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ST. BASIL

LEGACY SOCIETY Some Tax Saving Financial Tools To Help You and Catholic Central

In our respective eras, we alums were the fortunate ones to attend CC. The Basilians of old gave their lives to give us a better chance to improve ours. Today’s Basilians, faculty, and staff have carried on this tradition of sacrifice for others. For 90 years, the success of this institution has been unmatched in educating the whole man. Reading the Aluminator or school news causes one to pause and absorb the content presented. Academically, athletically, art, music, extracurricular activities, and more than there is room to expound, the results are truly remarkable.

The drive, personal sacrifice, and focus to succeed and win are the hallmarks of this institution.

All of us must ensure that this formula for success continues into the future. So, how can you help this effort and help yourself at the same time? Here are a few suggestions.

Helping the financial decision to send your sons/grandsons to CC You may have an established 529 program as a way of saving for college expenses. Last year, the Feds passed a bill allowing up to $10,000 per year from a qualified 529 to be used, tax free, for high school tuition at parochial/private schools. What better investment is there than a solid education at the prestigious institution we all know as the best in Michigan - CC? Think about it. If the high school is sub-par, how prepared will your son/grandson be for a successful college or business life experience? Teaching Goodness, Discipline, and Knowledge has no substitute. Note: Michigan tax on 529 withdrawals (check your state) is not reduced.

Helping future young men to have the opportunity of a CC education The new tax laws have led more of us to take advantage of the new, higher standard deduction, thereby moving away from itemizing.

If you do not itemize and are 70½ years of age or older, consider donating from your IRA all or a percentage of your annual Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) to CC (one is allowed up to $100,000 per year). Your IRA donation is a direct deduction from your taxable income, thereby lowering your adjusted gross income and thereby your taxes. It may also place you in a lower tax bracket. Be advised that one cannot also take a charitable deduction (double dipping).

If you do itemize, you could donate from your IRA. The benefit would, most likely, be minimal, or not at all. A better alternative is donating Long Term (held over 1 year) Appreciated Stock to gain a Double Tax Benefit. There is No Capital Gains Tax + Deduct the Full Market Value of the appreciated stock. In today’s volatile stock market, donating appreciated stock may be your best strategy for executing your plan to support CC and gain the best tax advantage.

As always, visit with your tax / financial advisor(s) before taking any financial action.

Call me at (248) 596-3845 or email to rseichter@catholicentral.net with questions.

Rudy Seichter ’59 Director of Planned Giving

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A D VA N C E M E N T N E W S • S P R I N G 2 0 1 9

O

L

The Road Back Home

F r. D en n i s N oe lk e, C.S.B. ’71

“It’s our family school,” Fr. Dennis Noelke, C.S.B. ’71

said in his classic understated style, “at least, for the

· Attended St. Suzanne Elementary School

boys.” His brothers, first cousins, and second cousins

· Graduated from Catholic Central in 1971

are Catholic Central graduates. To top it off, his uncle,

· Joined Basilian Fathers as an Associate

Fr. William Gibbons, C.S.B. ’41 had been the principal.

in 1971, while attending Eastern Michigan

In the fall of 2014, Fr. Noelke continued the family

University and Mercy College

tradition and came home to be the new principal.

· Studied Theology in Toronto for 3 years

· Ordained a deacon in 1980

As a high school student, he decided to become

a teacher, but then began to realize that he might

· Became Campus Minister at University of

have a vocation to the priesthood. Knowing that the

St. Thomas in Houston

Basilians were primarily a teaching order, Fr. Noelke

· Ordained to the priesthood at Assumption

knew that this was the perfect combination for him.

Church in Windsor in 1981

Fr. Noelke has spent most of his years serving students, in many different

places, in many different roles – as teacher, campus minister, and as principal. Along the way he has been inspired and supported by his many Basilian brothers, beginning with his uncle, Fr. Gibbons, and his confreres, Fr. James Carruthers, C.S.B., Fr. Charlie Christopher, C.S.B. ’50, Fr. Ken Decker, C.S.B. ’56, Fr. Harry Gardner, C.S.B., and Fr. Joseph Trovato, C.S.B..

· Born in Detroit

He had always quietly hoped that someday he would be able to return to his

· Returned to Houston for 2 years · Served as Basilian Vocation Director for 4 years · Assigned to Aquinas Institute in Rochester, NY, as campus minister and high school teacher for 5 years

for the following 3 years · Joined the staff at Assumption University

Central, he was actually surprised, then, filled with joy. “It has been a lovely ride, filled

in Windsor as campus minister for 4 years

with challenges,” he reflected.

· In 1999, when Archdiocese of Detroit

Getting to know the students as individuals has been his greatest joy, and the

great sense of spirit that exists at CC has made a deep impact on Fr. Noelke. His greatest hope is that he has impacted the spirituality of the faculty and students in a positive way.

As his years as principal draw to a close, Fr. Noelke has a great sense of satisfaction in seeing how much the students do above and beyond what is required in the classroom, in athletics, and especially in the service to the outside community. The feedback he receives from the greater CC family is most inspiring.

So, what is next for Fr. Noelke? No rest. As a General Councilor for the Basilian

asked Basilian Fathers to run Holy Redeemer High School, Father Noelke became the assistant principal, and then principal. · Spent 2005 as a Sabbatical Year · Appointed to CC as Theology teacher; after one semester, was called by the Superior General to serve as Secretary and Treasurer General of the Basilian Congregation in Toronto for the next 5 ½ years

community, among many other duties, he will be overseeing the welfare of 25 of his

· Became Associate Pastor of St. Kateri Parish

brother Basilians. He will remain in residence in Novi, and besides being able to spend

in Rochester, NY

more time with his family since all of his siblings live in the area, he will enjoy his favorite

· In 2014, was appointed as principal of

pastimes of cooking and music. But, most importantly, Fr. Noelke will still be home,

Detroit Catholic Central

helping out at Catholic Central in the many ways he will be needed.

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“It has been a lovely ride…”

· Served as principal of Aquinas Institute

Alma Mater, but when Fr. Noelke was asked to step into the role of principal of Catholic

Left to right: Dan Collins ’84, Mike Carrier ’06, Dave Lewis ’79, Susan Martin, Fr. Dennis Noelke, C.S.B. ’71, Fr. John Huber, C.S.B., and Michael Wilson

THE ROAD BACK HOME - FR. DENNIS NOELKE, C.S.B. ‘71 • SPRING 2019

Left to right: Fr. John Wheeler, C.S.B. ’57, Dcn. Tom Leonard, Fr. Jim O’Neill, C.S.B., Fr. Dennis Kauffman, C.S.B., Fr. Dennis Noelke, C.S.B. ’71, Fr. Rob Moslosky, C.S.B., Fr. John Huber, C.S.B., Fr. Bill Riegel, C.S.B., and Fr. Patrick Fulton, C.S.B. THE ROAD BACK HOME - FR. DENNIS NOELKE, C.S.B. ‘71 • SPRING 2019

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Fr. John Wheeler, C.S.B. ’57 Celebrates 50 Years of Priesthood Fr. Wheeler was raised in Redford Township and attended St. Michael in Livonia and St. Valentine in Redford Township. After graduation, he moved on to Detroit Catholic Central High School where he graduated from the 6565 W. Outer Drive campus in 1957. From there, he entered the Basilian Fathers’ novitiate in Rochester, New York.

Fr. Wheeler was ordained a Basilian priest on December 14, 1968, at Blessed Sacrament Cathedral in Detroit and began his ministry and teaching career. He has taught in both New Mexico and France, but spent the majority of his time teaching, coaching, and serving as a guidance counselor at Catholic Central. Fr. Wheeler taught mainly French and organized the French Summer Exchange program.

He also served as the Ski Coach and helped found the soccer program.

He was inducted into the CC Athletic Hall of Fame in 2016.

Since his retirement from teaching in 2009, he has been doing pastoral work in Florida for several weeks each winter and continues to serve as an associate at St. Priscilla, where he has been since 1999. Fr. Wheeler also remains very involved with the Alumni Glee Club which he directs with Rick Brown ’67. A Jubilee Mass of Thanksgiving took place on January 20, 2019, at St. Priscilla.

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F R . J O H N W H E E L E R , C . S . B . ‘ 5 7 C E L E B R AT E S 5 0 Y E A R S O F P R I E S T H O O D • S P R I N G 2 0 1 9

Top Row: Fr. Wheeler in 1968; with the Alumni Glee Club Middle Row: Fr. Wheeler circa 1974; in the classroom at Breakfast Drive Bottom Row: Fr. Wheeler at his Anniversary Jubilee; Fr. Wheeler with the 1983 Varsity Soccer Team

F R . J O H N W H E E L E R , C . S . B . ‘ 5 7 C E L E B R AT E S 5 0 Y E A R S O F P R I E S T H O O D • S P R I N G 2 0 1 9

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The Easter Season at Catholic Central

by Fr. William Riegel, C.S.B.

After the long winter of Lent, Catholic Central is now celebrating that foundational event of Easter! This is indeed our mission - to proclaim to our students that God’s love is greater than death (as one of our freshman stated in a weekly retreat).

As we continue to honor our 90th year, it has been marked by many victories and changes. For the first time in our history, we now have a lay President, Mr. Ed Turek ’85 who was the unanimous choice of our Board of Directors.

The appointment of a new Principal will assure us of a smooth transition and continuity in the Basilian Tradition.

We have celebrated State Championships in Hockey and Wrestling - well done!

Our Basketball and Swimming Teams made us proud in their striving, and our Academic and Robotic Teams certainly made their mark. Track, Rugby, and Bowling certainly need to be congratulated. A new season of Lacrosse and Baseball continue to make their mark as well. And we cannot leave out our wonderful Music Department. Every year we wonder how it can get better, yet it does! The Drama Club offered a fine production of Much Ado About Nothing. We must also acknowledge three of our students who were named National Merit Finalists as well as five others who were Commended Students.

i thank You God for most this amazing day: for the leaping greenly spirits of trees and a blue true dream of sky; and for everything which is natural which is infinite which is yes (i who have died am alive again today, and this is the sun’s birthday; this is the birth day of life and of love and wings: and of the gay great happening illimitably earth)

Kairos, under the direction of our Campus Minister Kevin Waters and his student teams, has been such a powerful experience, not only for the candidates but for all of us. We could feel the presence of the Holy Spirit in our midst. The weekly retreat days at St. Paul’s provided a rich moment for the students to focus on their relationship with Jesus and ask themselves if they are becoming the men God wants them to be.

We are aware that the number of Basilians diminishes, and yet to our surprise and joy, our Superior General Fr. Kevin Storey, C.S.B. has appointed Fr. Michael Buentello, C.S.B. to CC. It is a testimony to the vibrancy of our school that we now have more priests in ministry here than any other Basilian institution.

Thanks be to God! May, of course, is that month of special dedication to Mary (and June, the Sacred Heart). As we close our school year and say farewell to our seniors, we must give thanks to this great woman of faith for her protective care in these months. We would do well to honor and thank her by offering a daily rosary in this month, for surely she continues to be Mary, Alma Mater, and our mother indeed.

how should tasting touching hearing seeing breathing any - lifted from the no of all nothing - human merely being doubt unimaginable You? (now the ears of my ears awake and now the eyes of my eyes are opened)

Mary Alma Mater mosaic

We pray for a restful, safe, and refreshing summer for all! And never forget, “God Cannot Not Love…You!”

by Jason Blacha ‘11 and Miles Trealout ‘11

-E. E. Cummings 26

T H E E A S T E R S E A S O N AT C AT H O L I C C E N T R A L • S P R I N G 2 0 1 9

I

n

M

e m o r i a m

The following members of the Catholic Central Family have passed from this life to the next.

Please remember them in your Masses and other prayers. Our sincere condolences are extended to their loved ones.

May their souls and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the Mercy of God, rest in peace.

ALUMNI ERNEST H. GARBINSKI ’42 December 11, 2018. He is survived by three children, including Kenneth ’67 and Ronald ’70, three grandchildren, two greatgrandchildren, and his brother, Frederick ’44.

He was preceded in death by his wife and sister.

RICHARD W. SZYMANSKI ’42 January 9, 2019. He is survived by four children, son-in-law Leo Kowalyk ‘65, 12 grandchildren, including Leo Kowalyk III ’91, Karl Kowalyk ’92, and Keith ’02, 15 greatgrandchildren, including Victor ’17 and Michael ’20, and a sister, Bernice. He was preceded in death by his wife and brother, Chester ’40.

JOSEPH L. THIMM ’42 January 3, 2019. He is survived by his wife, three children, three grandchildren, and a brother, F. William ’44.

LEONARD L. BALKUS ’43 February 19, 2019.

GEORGE E. FAHRENKOPF ’46 November 24, 2018. He is survived by two children, two grandchildren, and his brother, James ’51. He was preceded in death by his wife.

FR. JOSEPH G. MALONEY, O.F.M.C. ’49 February 14, 2019. He is survived by his brother, James ’49, and many nieces and nephews, including the Ronayne Family. He was preceded in death by two siblings.

EUGENE W. METHOD JR. ’49 November 26, 2018. He is survived by his wife, three children, two stepchildren, and a granddaughter.

He was preceded in death by his stepdaughter.

ROBERT W. LARIN ’52 January 24, 2019. He is survived by his wife, six children, nine grandchildren, and many siblings, nieces, nephews, and cousins, including John MacInnis ’60. He was preceded in death by his brother, George ’41.

JAMES A. MEYER ’52 October 18, 2018. He is survived by his wife, five children, six grandchildren, and a sister.

He was preceded in death by a daughter and a sister.

JOHN J. HARTNETT ’53 January 2, 2019. He is survived by his wife, two daughters, and grandson.

ALBERT F. YOUNG ’53 July 19, 2017.

WILLIAM J. BATTAGLIA ’55 January 28, 2019. He is survived by two children, four grandchildren, and a sister. He was preceded in death by three siblings and a granddaughter.

GEORGE M. GOODRICH ’55 January 19, 2019. He is survived by his wife, six children, and 14 grandchildren, one greatgrandchild, and a sister.

JOHN A. MANZO ’57 January 19, 2019. He is survived by two daughters, seven grandchildren, and eight greatgrandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife.

JOHN V. MRSAN ’58 July 28, 2018.

JOHN T. LALONDE ’59 February 2, 2019. He is survived by his wife, two children, five grandchildren, and three siblings, including Robert ’63.

WILLIAM C. SALCZYNSKI ‘61 December 1, 2018. He is survived by his wife, three daughters, six grandchildren, and two brothers, James ’66 and Gerald ’70.

RICHARD G. LEWANDOWSKI ’65 January 2, 2019. He is survived by two children, two grandchildren, and a brother.

CMDR. MICHAEL P. ZALESKI ’65 November 10, 2018. He is survived by his wife, two children, three grandchildren, and two siblings.

DEAN C. OWEN ’66 June 6, 2018. He is survived by his wife, two children, five grandchildren, and two siblings.

CHRISTOPHER P. MESZAROS ’69 September 2, 2018.

JEFFREY M. NORK ’77 August 8, 2017. He is survived by his wife, two children, and two brothers.

JOHN F. EGLOFF October 30, 2018. Father-in-law of Matthew Ronayne ’80. Grandfather of Michael Ronayne ’14 and Kyle Ronayne ’18.

PAUL D. MCMASTER ’86 November 23, 2018. He is survived by his wife, two children, and four siblings, including Matthew ’79, Gerald ’80, and Gregory ’82.

ROSEMARY P. FELDMAN November 12, 2018. Mother of David ’73 and Neal ’75.

DAVID C. GUASTELLA ’05 January 8, 2019. He is survived by his grandparents, parents, wife, daughter, and two siblings, including John ’07.

He was preceded in death by his cousin, Anthony ’09.

DAVID GALIYAS ’07 January 10, 2019. He is survived by his parents, grandmother, sister, and bother, Alex ‘14.

EXTENDED FAMILY RORY S. ALDERTON January 12, 2019. Father of Kevin ’09.

MARY L. BIRKAM December 19, 2018. Former Librarian at CC. Mother of George ’70.

KEVIN BROWN December 17, 2018. Father of John ’78, Kevin ’79, and James ’86.

GUESSNER M. DAVIS September 28, 2018. Mother of Kyle Orr ’80.

NICHOLAS R. DEVINE November 9, 2018. Grandfather of Kyle ’14.

EILLEEN A. DUNLOP October 3, 2018. Wife of William Sr. ’52.

Mother of William Jr. ’76. Grandmother of Austin ’15. Sister of Michael Callanan ’62.

Sister-in-law of Robert ’54.

28

IN MEMORIAM • SPRING 2019

GEORGE A. HARVILLA November 17, 2018. Father of Larry ’98.

FRANCIS W. HIGGINS SR. November 15, 2018. Grandfather of Daniel Jess ’99 and Michael Higgins ’14 and Matthew Higgins ’16.

BERNARD HILADO November 9, 2018. Father of Benedict ’12 and Bernard ’15.

REV. EDWIN J. KLINE, C.S.B. November 27, 2018. Former CC teacher and guidance counselor.

REV. MARVIN W. LABUTE, C.S.B. November 13, 2018. Former CC teacher and archivist.

JAMES A. LEONARD January 14, 2019. Father of Tom ’70, Dan ’71, and Ken ’80. Stepfather of Tom ’72, John DiPonio ’73, Mike DiPonio ’75, and James DiPonio ’81. Father-in-law of former CC teacher and coach John Salter. Grandfather of Brian Hagan ’01 and P.J. Salter ’01.

PHYLLIS M. LEWIS January 2, 2019. Mother of David ’79 and Michael ’80. Grandmother of Patrick ’09.

MARY E. O’DONNELL December 1, 2018. Mother of Mark ’72 and Craig ’73.

JACKIE POIRIER February 4, 2019. Daughter of former CC teacher Josette Poirier. Aunt of Nick Madias ’18.

JOHN D. PUTNAM January 5, 2019. Father-in-law of Joe Loiselle ’82.

MARIAN B. SHANNON January 30, 2019. Daughter of John Dunne ’42. Aunt of Andrew Stevens ’00 and Paul Stevens ’04.

JOHN J. SHINSKE JR. December 27, 2018. Father of CC Director of Facilities, John Shinkse.

KATHLEEN SHUTRUMP December 27, 2018. Niece of Fr. Norbert Clemens, C.S.B. GAIL E. STEINHAUER February 6, 2019. Wife of Thomas Jensen ’65.

JOSEPH A. WIERCIOCH December 26, 2018. Grandfather of Nick Bazany ’16.

JOHN WILSON December 10, 2018. Former CC English teacher.

ELAINE A. WOBROCK December 21, 2018. Mother of Craig ’78.

DANIEL MEDELLIN December 16, 2018. Father of Joseph ’21.

JAMES M. MELLON January 2, 2019. Father of James ’78.

IN MEMORIAM • SPRING 2019

29

ANNUAL

DRIVE

“Movies”

The DRIVE Results This year’s DRIVE was another huge success. The Student Ticket DRIVE is an annual event that is synonymous with school spirit at Catholic Central. Each year, students sell raffle tickets and collect money for tuition assistance. The seven school days that make up “DRIVE week” are comprised of half days and assemblies that promote school spirit and competition among the students, faculty, and staff.

The theme for this year was Movies. Each homeroom selected a movie within their respective categories and decorated their homerooms and hallways accordingly.

The freshmen represented comedies, the sophomores thrillers, the juniors action/ adventures, and the seniors animation. The decorations were outstanding and highlighted our students’ skill, creativity, and imagination. The videos, entertainment, and various shenanigans that filled the week were enjoyed by everyone.

2019 DRIVE Results - Total $ Raised Daily Results

Cumulative

The total amount of money brought in reached $500,801.13. That money will go

Day 1

$145,661.13

$145,661.13

directly toward tuition assistance for next year’s students. Our Principal, Fr. Dennis

Day 2

$81,896.00

$227,557.13

Noelke, C.S.B. ’71, made it clear to the students that many families will be able to

Day 3

$48,997.00

$276,554.13

receive much-needed financial support toward tuition because of their efforts and

Day 4

$47,577.00

$324,131.13

Day 5

$76,569.00

$400,700.13

Day 6

$100,101.00

$500,801.13

generosity. For this achievement, Fr. Noelke rewarded the students with 13 DRIVE holidays. Also, Thomas Sylvester ’19 was awarded the David Bullock ’16 Spirit of the Drive Award.

Top Salesman Rank/Name

1. Brendan Downs ’19

Cumulative

2. Luke Butler ’22

$13,235.00 $9,050.00

3. Andrew Lobbia ’20 $8,400.00 4. Conor Ronayne ’20 $7,120.00

Personal Insurance Experts Professional. Protected. Provision.

Auto · Home · Life · Commercial

5. Declan Lee ’22

$4,345.00

6. Patrick Lee ’19

$4,150.00

7. Alex Connell ’20

$4,030.00

30200 Telegraph Rd., Suite 350 Bingham Farms, MI 48025

8. Will McLaren ’20

$3,900.00

9. Alex Bayer ’19

$3,250.00

Andy Hager ‘05 · 248-731-5518 · ahager@provisionagency.com Britton Steele ‘05 · 248-419-4073 · britton@provisionagency.com Brad Nadeau ‘06 · 248-573-3029 · bnadeau@provisionagency.com Bret Driscoll ‘07 · 248-731-5514 · bdriscoll@provisionagency.com Shane Butwill ‘10 · 248-686-2926 · sbutwill@provisionagency.com

2017 · 7 Fastest Growing Private Insurance Company in America th

10. Mark Holowicki ’20 $3,150.00

Rank by Grade Level - $ Raised % of Quota Rank/Grade

Cumulative

% of Quota

1. Freshmen

$161,938.13

369.72%

2. Seniors

$117,941.00

322.24%

3. Juniors

$118,537.00

319.94%

4. Sophomores $102,385.00

300.69%

Total DRIVE Holidays Earned = 13

30

SPRING 2019

T H E D R I V E R E S U LT S • S P R I N G 2 0 1 9

31

SCHOOL

BELLS

Current Events at Catholic Central

FIRST ROBOTICS

National Signing Day

The FIRST Robotics team is in the middle of their competition season! Their robot is more technologically advanced than ever before. They created their own chassis with mechanum wheels that allow them to drive sideways as well as forwards/ backwards. There is a raspberry pi on the robot with custom wiring that compiles advanced robot vision capabilities.

On Thursday, February 7, 2019, 25 senior student-athletes signed letters of intent, formally committing to continue their academic and athletic careers at their respective colleges and universities.

Kellen Adler ’19

Football

Brendan Hill ’19

Hockey

Lake Superior St. University

Cameron Amine ’19

Wrestling University of Michigan

Joey Kamish ’19

Lacrosse

Loyola University Maryland

The team is currently developing autonomous code to use this vision system to have the robot detect its distance to the target and automatically score game pieces. They are using pneumatics to control game pieces for the first time.

A significant portion of the mechanisms have been drawn up in CC’s new CAD room and produced on 3D printers.

Connor Beals ’19

Lacrosse

Hartford Community College

Bennett Loniewski ’19 Swimming Loyola University Maryland

Trevor Benoit ’19

Golf

Adrian College

Kyle Love ’19

Lacrosse

University of Mass. Lowell

Samih Beydoun ’19

Football

U.S. Military Academy

Ryan Marra ’19

Baseball

Brown University

Ryan Birney ’19

Lacrosse

University of Detroit Mercy

Nick Matuszak ’19

Lacrosse

University of Mass. Boston

The freshmen have created an Android app to use for scouting other teams and developing gameplay strategies. This is only a small slice of the excitement happening in our Robotics Center on a daily basis! During the first weekend in April, the Shambots won the District Championship at Livonia Churchill High School.

Parker Bohland ’19

Football

Albion College

Andrew Nicholsen ’19 Soccer

Michigan State University

Kevon Davenport ’19 Wrestling University of Nebraska

Michael Palushaj ’19 Soccer

University of Detroit Mercy

David DeBacker ’19

Diving

University of Notre Dame

Justin Petouhoff ’19

Lacrosse

University of Detroit Mercy

Academic Team Wins State Championships

David DeBacker ’19 Named MHSAA Scholar Athlete

Luke Doyle ’19

Soccer

U.S. Military Academy

Jake Petro ’19

Lacrosse

University of Detroit Mercy

Owen Finnerty ’19

Soccer

University of Michigan

Johnny Shea ’19

Lacrosse

Hope College

Joe Hardenbergh ’19 Baseball

Hillsdale College

Kaleb Wiesner ’19

Golf

Lawrence Tech. University

On Saturday, March 30th, the Varsity Academic Team competed at the University of Michigan in the NAQT State Championship Tournament. The Varsity A Team swept the field with a perfect 11-0 record to win the tournament for a record 9th consecutive year. The Varsity B Team took 3rd, and the Varsity D Team of four freshmen took 8th.

David DeBacker ’19 was named an MHSAA Scholar Athlete for the 2018-2019 school year. David is a four-year member of the Swimming & Diving program and earned numerous all-state and all-american honors as a diver. He served as a team captain during his senior season in which the Shamrocks completed the best season in program history, winning the Oakland County and Catholic League Championships and finishing 2nd at the State Finals.

Mike Harding ’19

Hillsdale College

Additionally, on Saturday, April 13th, the Varsity A Team competed at the Michigan High School Quiz Bowl State Championship at Michigan State University where they defeated DeWitt 625-70 in the finals.

The Varsity Academic Teams are coached by Ben Herman ’98 and Christopher Gismondi ’00.

Football

Bowling Green State University

Additionally, David was named a National Merit Finalist, is in the National Honor Society, and is a member of the state champion Academic Team. David is an Eagle Scout and was selected for the Boy Scouts Order of the Arrow. David is active with the Art Club, Shamrock Voice, and Poetry Out Loud. He will attend the University of Notre Dame in the fall.

Front row, left to right: Kellen Adler ’19, Brendan Hill ’19, Ryan Marra ’19, David DeBacker ’19, Samih Beydoun ’19, Kevon Davenport ’19, Cameron Amine ’19, Luke Doyle ’19, Mike Harding ’19, Joey Kamish ’19, Bennett Loniewski ’19, and Kyle Love ’19 Left to right: David DeBacker ’19, Colin Stewart ’19, Parker Stogdill ’19, and Robert Dedvukaj ’20 32

SCHOOL BELLS • SPRING 2019

Back Row, left to right: Andrew Nicholsen ’19, Michael Palushaj ’19, Kaleb Wiesner ’19, Johnny Shea ’19, Jake Petro ’19, Owen Finnerty ’19, Joe Hardenbergh ’19, Ryan Birney ’19, Nick Matuszak ’19, Trevor Benoit ’19, Connor Beals ’19, Justin Petouhoff ’19, and Parker Bohland ’19 SCHOOL BELLS • SPRING 2019

33

Science Fair

Chinese at CC

On Wednesday, March 13th, eight Honors Chemistry students participated in the Science and

The Chinese Language Association of Michigan (CLAM) holds its annual meeting each November in the McGregor Memorial Conference Center on the Wayne State University campus.

Engineering Fair of Metro Detroit. This is a huge event where 300 projects from 38 different schools throughout the area compete to see who is the best in the region and in the state.

The men of Catholic Central performed very well. Mark Holowicki ’20 and Brendan Nordstrom ’21 received a rating of excellent and Liam Kendall ’21, Boston Meisner ’21, George Nunu ’21, and Alex Perez ’21 received a rating of outstanding.

Jack Karabajakian ’20 placed 2nd in his category, Chemical Engineering, with his project “Evaluating Combustion Reactions of Isopropyl Alcohol.”

Andrew Fischer ’21 placed 1st in his category, Chemical Engineering, with his project “The Effect of Sugar as Fuel and Potassium Nitrate as Oxidizer for Rocket Propulsion.”

Andrew also received the Air Force Award for Outstanding Science or Engineering Project and an Award of Merit from the American Statistical Association.

Andrew Fischer ’21

On Saturday, November 17, 2018, CLAM held its 11th annual conference, during which former CC Principal and President, Fr. John Huber, C.S.B., received the prestigious Education Advocate Award.

He received the award from Dr. John Brender, Director of the Confucius Institute.

CC teacher Nina Fang has Left to right: Nina Fang, Darren Valente, Nicco Valente ’21, Fr. John Huber, C.S.B., Jacob Yee ’21, been an annual presenter at and Kelly Yee the conference since 2010 with linguistic topics such as oxymoron, causative verbs The program is run through the University of Delaware, and the in Chinese, etc. This year she presented on the lighter topic of American Councils for International Education manages the organizing a trip to China. Nicco Valente ’21 and Jacob Yee ’21 overall operations of the scholarship program. NSLI-Y is a were co-presenters. These two students took part in the trip to government program through the U.S. Department of State’s China when they were freshmen. Jacob Yee has been selected Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. Recipients of this to receive a 2019-2020 National Security Language Initiative for scholarship are selected after an intense application process, Youth (NSLI-Y) scholarship. including a personal interview.

Left to right: Alex Perez ’21, Jack Karabajakian ’20, Mark Holowicki ’20, Boston Meisner ’21, Liam Kendall ’21, Andrew Fischer ’21, George Nunu ’21, and Brendan Nordstrom ’21

Jack Karabajakian ’20

Poetry Out Loud Now in its fourteenth year in the state, Michigan’s Poetry Out Loud program is coordinated by Michigan Humanities through a partnership with the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs. David DeBacker ’19 competed in the Michigan State Poetry Out Loud competition held in East Lansing in March.

David finished as first runner-up. David received a cash prize and earned money for the program at CC. Student and school prizes at the state level are funded by the National Endowment for the Arts and the Liesel Litzenburger Meijer Fund.

34

SCHOOL BELLS • SPRING 2019

SCHOOL BELLS • SPRING 2019

35

Sanctum House Presentation

by Jack Rajkovich ’67 On January 15, 2019, Catholic Central students shared their homeroom assembly periods with representatives from Sanctum House, a refuge for survivors of human trafficking. Karen Moore, Executive Director of Sanctum House, and Jack Rajkovich ’67, a Sanctum House volunteer and member of the CC Alumni Board, provided background information on this criminal enterprise that enslaves millions of individuals. Students have the option of learning more through suggested online readings recommended by the Michigan Task Force on Human Trafficking.

Karen Moore and Jack Rajkovich ’67

2nd Amendment Seminar On January 9, 2019, at the University of Detroit Mercy Law School, Michael Tibbits ’11 hosted 20 CC students and CC teachers, Aaron Rumberger ’92 and Peter Shaheen , to experience a debate seminar on the 2nd Amendment and gun control. Michael is a law student and the President of the Federalist Society at UDM. He also coaches baseball at CC.

36

SCHOOL BELLS • SPRING 2019

SPRING 2019

37

DECA

3CSA - Catholic Central Competitive Speech Association

Distributive Education Clubs of America

by Warren Dietz ’19, CC DECA President

by Mr. Peter Shaheen

DECA is a international organization that

Just what makes that little old ant think that he can remove a rubber tree plant? High hopes. He’s got high high hopes.

prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs with the necessary skills through conferences

The Catholic Central Competitive Speech Association (3CSA) has the same high hopes as the one in the Frank Sinatra song. We are looking to return to CC’s glory days of speech and debate when Mr. Frank Garlicki coached the team.

and competitions. Our Catholic Central DECA Chapter is in its third year and currently has 93 members. All of our members are competing members, which means they have taken

Peter Shaeen, Hayden Kibbey ’19,

part in one of the may facets of DECA. Our competitors have done such things as playing in a virtual stock market, using a program that simulated them being a social media influencer for a large company, and creating a detailed business plan for a local business.

Our speech students enjoyed considerable success. CC placed 2nd at the Beaverton Invitational in February. Charles Hilu ’19 and Nick Czarnota ’21 won several sequences in the DCFL, performing their interpretation of Bernard Pomerance’s The Elephant Man. They will be competing at Catholic Nationals over Memorial Day.

All of these events put us against all the other DECA chapters in the world in some form of competition. Our chapter has had much success as we had 39 members advance from the regional competition at Lawrence Tech. University to the state competition at Cobo Hall in Detroit. This spring we will have

Peter Shaeen, Charles Hilu ’19, Jaxon Pecora ’19,

and Craig McMichael ’01 and Nick Czarnota ’19 This is just our second year, but we have had some compelling successes. First, we had 20 students prep for the We the People Congressional Simulation hearings in January held by the Michigan Center for Civic Education. We had four freshmen prepare for policy debate, and we hope to debut a full time national team next year. Additionally, we had three debaters participate in Lincoln Douglas debates in the Detroit Catholic Forensic League (DCFL).

Warren Dietz ’19, Neel Parakh ’19, and Chris Maxey ’19

Christopher Wagner ’20 and Tristan Croteau ’20

Jaxon Pecora ’19, Jeff Banier ’22, and Hayden Kibbey ’19 also participated in the DCFL taking 1st or 2nd in their respective events. Hayden Kibbey captured CC’s first state championship in the American Legion Oratorical and competed in Indianapolis April 5th and 6th in an effort to capture an $18,000 scholarship. Charles Hilu won the Birmingham Optimist Oratorical contest for the second year in a row and will be competing for the state championship this year. As the 3CSA continues to take small steps towards building a program that will last, our hopes grow.

Shamrocks Compete at HOSA State Leadership Conference

six competitors head to the international conference in Orlando, Florida, looking to

On Thursday March 21st, 24 Shamrocks departed for the weekend-long Michigan HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) State Leadership Conference. These students toured Grand Rapids, attended symposiums on various issues relating to the healthcare field, and most importantly, competed against 3,200 students from across the state in 60 different events. Twenty students performed well enough on Thursday to advance to the second round of competition on Friday. Dylan Arroyo ’19 took 9th place overall in his event, Medical Spelling.

become the overall International Champion in their respective events. In addition, we also have six members who were selected to take part in the prestigious leadership conference.

State Champions Warren Dietz ’19 Jonah Hurley ’22 Hayden Kibbey ’19 Chris Maxey ’19 Neel Parakh ’19 State Finalists Nolan Loomis ’19 Jagur Nafso ’19 Alex Perez ’21 Nolan Scott ’19 Jacob Seabolt ’20 & Lucian Simich ’20 Christopher Wagner ’20 & Tristan Croteau ’20 Ross Ziegler ’20 & Logan Ziegler ’20

38

SCHOOL BELLS • SPRING 2019

Jacob Seabolt ’20 and Lucian Simich ’20

Ross Ziegler ’20 and Logan Ziegler ’20

SCHOOL BELLS • SPRING 2019

39

SPORTS

BREAK

Keeping Up with Catholic Central Athletes

39th Annual

Basketball The Varsity Basketball Team, led by first-year coach Brandon Sinawi, finished the season with a 17-7 overall record.

With a renewed excitement, the Shamrocks entered the

Athletic Department Golf Outing

season with returning talent and high hopes. CC finished second in the Catholic League and won the program’s first District Championship since 2012. The season came to an end with a two-point loss to eventual state champion Ypsilanti Lincoln in what could be considered one of the most exciting basketball games in CC history.

Bowling

2019 Varsity Basketball Team

Monday, June 17, 2019 Walnut Creek Country Club, South Lyon

5-Person Scramble

The Varsity Bowling Team, led by coach Matt Nugent ’11, finished the regular season with a 6-4 record. The Shamrocks finished second in the Catholic League and tied for fifth at

Shotgun Start: 12:30 pm

the Regionals. Tyler Jackson ’20 and Ben Ward ’19 qualified for the Singles State Finals and finished 19th and 47th respectively.

Hockey - STATE CHAMPION

For

more information: (248) 596-3829

www.catholiccentral.net

2019 Varsity Bowling Team

The Varsity Hockey Team, led by coach Brandon Kaleniecki ’00, finished the season with a 29-1-1 overall record en route to the program’s 18th State Championship and first since 2016. CC dominated the season with wins over Culver, Brighton, Cranbrook, Livonia Stevenson, and Toronto St. Michael. The Shamrocks won the Catholic League, MIHL, and Regional Championships along the way to the State Finals at USA Arena.

Sponsor - Golf - Donate Proceeds

support all

14

shamrock althletic teams

Rylan Clemons ’19 won the Ron Baum Trophy as the Division 1 Finals MVP.

2019 Varsity Hockey Team 40

SCHOOL BELLS • SPRING 2019

SPRING 2019

41

Skiing

Basketball

The Varsity Ski Team, led by longtime coach Tom Gable, battled

3rd Team All-State Davis Lukomski ’19

the weather all season and finished the season with a 3-3 record

All-State Honorable Mention Brendan Downs ’19 Justin Rukat ’19

and victories over Howell, South Lyon, Saline, and Chelsea.

The Shamrocks finished 6th in the Mt. Brighton High School Ski Association, 5th in the Catholic League, and 10th in the MHSAA Regional.

2019 Varsity Ski Team

Swimming & Diving - STATE FINALIST

All-League Brendan Downs ’19 Keegan Koehler ’19

The Varsity Swimming & Diving Team, led by coach Jessica Stoddard, completed the most successful season in program history. The Shamrocks finished the season undefeated in dual

Academic All-Catholic Mike Harding ’19

meets, beat Brother Rice for the first time in dual competition, and won their second-consecutive Oakland County and Catholic

Bowling

League Championships. At the State Finals in Holland, CC finished

Academic All-State Matt Ryall ’19 Ben Ward ’19

in 2nd place overall, missing out on the state championship by .06 of a second in the final race (the 400yd freestyle relay which

All-Catholic Tyler Jackson ’20 Nick Zappia ’21

broke the school record by over four seconds and qualified for All-American). New school records were set in the 50yd Freestyle, 100yd Freestyle, 200yd Freestyle Relay, and 400yd Freestyle Relay. The team also earned Academic All-State honors.

2019 Varsity Swimming & Diving Team

Wrestling - STATE CHAMPION The Varsity Wrestling Team, led by coach Mitch Hancock ’00, finished the season with an overall record of 26-1 and won the program’s 14th Division 1 State Championship with a 34-19 victory over Brighton. The Shamrocks powered through a daunting schedule by going 4-0 at the Marmion Duals and winning both the Brecksville and CC Invitationals. CC won the Catholic League, District, and Regional Championships in dominating fashion before heading to Kalamazoo to win the program’s third-consecutive state championship and 14th overall. For the fourth time in program history, CC qualified all 14 wrestlers for the Individual State Finals at Ford Field. The Shamrocks set a program record with eight state finalists and seven individual state champions. Additionally, Kevon Davenport ’19 became the first four-time individual state champion in school history and the first African American to do so in the history of the MHSAA. Cameron Amine ’19 was named Wrestler of the Year by Michigan Grappler. Once again, CC finished as an Academic All-State Team with a 3.589 GPA.

All-Catholic Davis Lukomski ’19 Justin Rukat ’19

All-League Matt Ryall ’19 Academic All-Catholic Matt Ryall ’19

Hockey

All-State Dream Team Rylan Clemons ’19 Brendan Miles ’20 1st Team All-State Zach Allan ’19 Joe Borthwick ’19 Rylan Clemons ’19 Kyle Gaffney ’20 Carter Korpi ’19 Brendan Miles ’20

2nd Team MIHL All-North Luke Collins ’19 Dylan Dooley ’20 Mitch Morris ’19 MIHL All-North Honorable Mention Ryan Marra ’19

Skiing

Academic All-State Chris Maxey ’19

MIHL MVP Rylan Clemons ’19

1st Team All-Catholic Chris Maxey ’19

MIHL All-League Joe Borthwick ’19 Rylan Clemons ’19 Kyle Gaffney ’20 Brendan Hill ’19 Carter Korpi ’19

2nd Team All-Catholic Caden Kapilla ’21 Konor Tice ’19

1st Team MIHL All-North Zach Allan ’19 Joe Borthwick ’19 Rylan Clemons ’19 Kyle Gaffney ’20 Brendan Hill ’19 Carter Korpi ’19 Brendan Miles ’20 Stephen Sleva ’19

All-American Bennett Loniewski ’19 - 200yd Freestyle Relay & 400yd Freestyle Relay

Basil Bowl Takes

on

Swimming & Diving

Matthew Kozma ’21 - 400yd Freestyle Relay Mario McDonald ’20 - 50yd Freestyle, 100yd Freestyle, 200yd Freestyle Relay & 400yd Freestyle Relay

Conor Brownell ’20 - 400yd Freestyle Relay David DeBacker ’19 - 1 Meter Diving Brian Hussey ’20 - 200yd Freestyle Relay Academic All-State Joe Cottrell ’19 David DeBacker ’19 Evan Gresens ’19 All-State Bennett Loniewski ’19 - 6th Place 200yd Freestyle, - 6th Place 500yd Freestyle Matthew Kozma ’21 - 5th Place 200yd IM, - 7th Place 100yd Backstroke Mario McDonald ’20 - 3rd Place 50yd Freestyle - 4th Place 100yd Freestyle Connor Brownell ’20 - 6th Place 50yd Freestyle - 4th Place 100yd Butterfly David DeBacker ’19 - 4th Place 1 meter Diving

Mario McDonald ’20, Brian Hussey ’20, Bennett Loniewski ’19, & Connor Brownell ’20 - 3rd Place 200yd Freestyle Relay Matthew Kozma ’21, Bennett Loniewski ’19, Mario McDonald ’20, & Connor Brownell ’20 - 2nd Place 400yd Freestyle Relay

Wrestling

All-American Cameron Amine ’19 Kevon Davenport ’19 All-American Honorable Mention Easton Turner ’19 Academic All-State Easton Turner ’19 Joe Urso ’19 All-State Cameron Amine ’19 - State Champion Kevon Davenport ’19 - State Champion Josh Edmond ’20 - State Champion Derek Gilcher ’20 - State Champion

Steven Kolcheff ’20 - State Champion Logan Sanom ’20 - 6th Place Marc Shaeffer ’20 - 2nd Place Camden Trupp ’21 - 3rd Place Easton Turner ’19 - State Champion Anthony Walker ’22 - 3rd Place Brendin Yatooma ’20 - State Champion All-Catholic Jacob Bisdorf ’20 Josh Bisdorf ’22 John Browning ’21 Philip Burney ’21 Kamron Davenport ’22 Logan Sanom ’20 Marc Shaeffer ’20 Joe Urso ’19 Caleb White ’20 All-League Mike Perrone ’19

Rugby

For the first time, the Basil Bowl featured a rugby match between Detroit Catholic Central and St. Thomas High School from Houston, Texas.

The Eagles from STHS traveled to Novi and billeted with CC students before playing their match on Tom Mach Field, or “the pitch” as they say in rugby, on a cold March afternoon. The teams and coaches shared Mass and a pig roast before attending the hockey state championship game together. Former STHS Principal and current CC Assistant Principal, Fr. Patrick Fulton, C.S.B., was on hand to present the Shamrocks with the trophy as the winners of this newly founded annual tradition.

2019 Varsity Wrestling Team 42

SPORTS BREAK • SPRING 2019

SPORTS BREAK • SPRING 2019

43

Keep Up With CC Online Prayer and Special Need Requests This year we introduced a web page on the CC website for everyone in the CC family to submit prayer and special need requests.

To submit Prayer and Special Need Requests, please log in to MyCC from our homepage www.catholiccentral.net.

Once logged in, navigate to the “Resources” tab and click the box that says “Prayer Request Form”.

This will take you to a secure form where you may submit your request to be posted to the CC website.

Prayers and special need requests are typically posted within 24 hours to our CC website.

If you are having any trouble logging in or it is your first time, please watch the video on our home page explaining how to login.

To view the Prayer and Special Need Requests web page, go to www.catholiccentral.net/pray.

Or you may go to www.catholiccentral.net and click “Prayer Requests” at the top-right.

All prayers and special need requests are welcome.

Over the last few years, Catholic Central’s presence online has been growing steadily.

Stay connected to CC through these official web and social media pages.

www.catholiccentral.net

FACEBOOK: Detroit Catholic Central Alumni Association

Calendar of Events https://www.catholiccentral.net/page/ news--calendar/school-calendar

Sports Schedules https://www.catholiccentral.net/page/ news--calendar/athletic-calendar or call the Athletic Office at (248) 596-3830.

Catholic Central Admissions

LINKEDIN: Detroit Catholic Central Alumni Association

TWITTER: @DCCAlumniOffice @DCCShamrocks @DCCAdmissions @DETROITCCAD

Aluminator Submissions Send your comments, questions, or items for inclusion in a future Aluminator to aluminator@catholiccentral.net.

We look forward to hearing from you!

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KEEP UP WITH CC ONLINE • SPRING 2019

Detroit Catholic Central High School The Aluminator 27225 Wixom Road Novi, MI 48374

Scan to view past issues www.catholiccentral.net/aluminator

A FOND FAREWELL TO Fr. John Huber, C.S.B. and Fr. Dennis Noelke, C.S.B. ’71

join us

in a celebration of thanksgiving for the leadership and legacy

WHEN: Thursday, May 30, 2019

6:00-8:30 pm - Program 7:00-7:30 pm

WHERE: Detroit Catholic Central Gymnasium DRESS: Casual Attire RECEPTION: Food, soft drinks, and fellowship

RSVP by May 23

rd

(248) 596-3838 or online at www.catholiccentral.net

Sponsored by the CC Administration, Mothers’ Club and Dads’ Club