Explorer Magazine - Summer 2013

summer 2013

E X PLORE R

The Official Magazine of La Salle College High School

E X PLORE R

Music Fills The Air

The Official Magazine of La Salle College High School

PAge 7

E X PLORE R

The Official Magazine of La Salle College High School

10

All Things Strings

12

The Twelfth Man

14 The Voice

Highlights Tribute to the Class of 2013

16-17

Photo Gallery

23-27

Cover Story Departments From The Hip

2

Letter From The President

3

Births, Deaths, and Honorees

32

7Music Fills The Air what’s inside

18

How To Succeed In Theater

In Memory of Brother Thomas H. McPhillips, FSC, PhD ’67

1950 – 2013

21 Sound Lab

Mission Statement adopted by the Middle States Evaluation Team March 2006 La Salle College High School, a Catholic independent, college preparatory school for young men of varied backgrounds, is conducted in the tradition of St. John Baptist de La Salle.

Through a broad and balanced, human and Christian education, La Salle College High School guides each student in the development of his unique God-given talents and fosters a commitment to academic excellence, service, and leadership.

Contributing Writers

Photography

Explorer

Christopher M. Carabello ’82

Arthur Jordan Bailin ’13

La Salle College High School

Mark Lewis Chandler ’13

Christopher M. Carabello ’82

8605 Cheltenham Avenue

Daniel Joseph DeBrakeleer ’13

Sam Fritch

Wyndmoor, PA 19038

Agustin Tomas Marty ’13

Patti Finlay

Patrick Edward May ’13

Joshua Graham ’13

215 233 2350 phone

Vice President of Institutional Advancement Daniel L. McGowan

Christopher A. Mele ’13

Gary Johnson

Preston Michael Murray ’13

Rob Johnson

Griffin James Ripley ’13

Brother James Rieck, FSC ’57

Editor Christopher M. Carabello ’82

Kyle Samuel Stofka ’13

Brittany King

John Thomas Tyrrell ’13

Regina Sacco

The Explorer is published three

Colin William Weber ’13

Charles Stone

times a year by La Salle College High

Al Zarroli

School. The Explorer welcomes letters

President Brother James L. Butler, FSC Principal Michael A. O’Toole ’68

Editorial and Production Assistance Maura M. Diehl

Artwork and Design

Cathleen P. Winning

John Burns Graphic Design

215 836 4502 fax alumni@lschs.org www.lschs.org

to the Editor concerning alumni, school, and other topics covered by and in the magazine.

The Editor of the Explorer reserves

summer 2013

the right to edit and make all decisions

E X PLORE R

regarding the content and information published in the magazine.

The Official Magazine of La Salle College High School

E X PLORE R

The Official Magazine of La Salle College High School

E X PLORE R

The Official Magazine of La Salle College High School

FromTheHip

Diversity is not always a word that suggests itself when talking about La Salle College High School. Ironically, it is the characteristic that sets us apart.

When people think of diversity, it is often race, ethnicity, and socio-economic status that immediately come to mind.

La Salle clearly has its share of all three; however, our diversity is much deeper as it permeates every area of student life.

The wide-array of talent amongst our students is perhaps the greatest example of our diversity. La Salle is fortunate to have an athletic program that includes seventeen sports and, in 2012-2013, the school won eleven championships and had ten “Final Four” appearances/finishes in the Pennsylvania State Championships. At the same time, the Competition Band won the overall championship at the Cavalcade of Bands Competition, while on the other side of the building, the Speech and Debate Team was recognized as one of the Top 5 Programs in the Nation, and the The student body is no longer represented Microsoft IT Academy produced over 100 by just a few cities and towns. The Class students with Microsoft credentials. There of 2013 came to La Salle College High is truly something for everyone and all of School from 88 different elementary our programs find boys working together schools and 71 zip codes. They leave in an environment that allows them to having been accepted to 192 colleges and perform at the highest levels. universities in 32 states along with one international university. More impressive All of this success takes place within the is that 75% of the Class of 2013 was confines of a place where students enjoy awarded a scholarship to a college or mutual respect. The experience promotes university and collectively they earned in brotherhood and, despite their differexcess of $32 million. ences, the boys come together to achieve greatness. In Saint Paul’s first letter to the La Salle prides itself on both academic Corinthians, he speaks of different gifts excellence and academic diversity and and one Spirit. Our students clearly have does so through a dedicated faculty that many gifts and choose to share them in a is committed to its students. Help is never common spirit – La Salle. hard to find and the result is young men who are taught to learn and are able to communicate effectively and lead confidently. They include 117 AP Scholars and the most National Merit Semifinalists Christopher M. Carabello ’82 amongst the private, Catholic, Editor and independent schools in the State of Pennsylvania.

FromThePresident Dear Alumni, Parents, and Friends,

Sometimes, in one of those rare moments of honest introspection, I am amazed at how far I have gotten with so little talent – some luck, some mentoring, a fair bit of hard work, and a willingness to jump at the bait when it’s dangled have propelled my career. At no time are those feelings about talent more acute than when I get to experience the performing arts at La Salle. The week in which this letter is being written has been an “arts rich” one at La Salle, with the bands in concert the preceding Monday and the chorus concert and visual arts exhibition the following Monday.

When you think about it, though, every week

Bands Jazz Competition this year. Along with our

music, the discipline needed for a teenaged string

at La Salle is rich in artistic life. From the Pep

vocal arts teacher Mark Norman, they ensure a

ensemble to master a Vivaldi or Holst masterwork,

Band’s preparation in late summer through their

quality musical dimension to countless aspects of

the discipline to come to school with your hockey

performance at playoff games, to the Christmas

La Salle life. The collaboration of these gentlemen

sticks in one hand, your trumpet in the other, and

festivities, seasonal liturgies, the competi-

with Micky Dominick and the other members of his

still get your academic requirements met.

tion band season, the spring musical, and the

staff lead to La Salle presenting an annual musical,

musical enrichment of the 150th Baccalaureate and

the latest being Swing!, which is never hackneyed

Commencement ceremonies this June, music and

and banal like so much high school theater else-

the arts at La Salle are as essential to the fabric of

where, but fresh, brimming over with enthusiasm,

our lives as are academic engagement, athletic suc-

challenging in all the right ways, and an incredible

cess, generous service, and growth in faith.

showcase for student talent.

This isn’t just a 2012-13 phenomenon, of course.

Oh, yeah, let’s not forget the students. If you

lead complete, rich, disciplined, expressive, and

Names from the past people all our imaginations:

exclude required fine arts electives, I imagine more

sensitive lives. James Levine, the legendary Musical

conductors Joseph Colantonio and Dr. Reinhardt,

than 40% of the La Salle student body still has

Director of the Metropolitan Opera in New York,

Brothers F. William and Fred Stelmach ’46 in stu-

some chosen engagement with the arts as a part

once made this comment on his role as conductor:

dio art, people like Brother Gene Graham, Jean

of their education. Just look at the stage during Swing!, and you’ll get some hint of this. Watch and

“It’s just that, when the orchestra looks at me, I

Williams, Bob Bolsover, and Colleen Durkin bringing Broadway style productions to a humble high

listen to the band’s masterful rendering of Williams’

who reflects what we rehearsed, and whose func-

school auditorium. Likewise, this isn’t an archival

Theme from Jurassic Park, the stage more crowded

tion is to make it possible for them to do it.” Our

phenomenon either. La Salle still sets the standard

than the pit at a Wagner opera, and you’ll know for

young men at La Salle see such examples in front

for excellence in the arts in the Delaware Valley,

sure. Understand that it’s just not a matter of show-

of them every day throughout our arts programs.

and likely far beyond. The work of Barbara Miller

manship and talent here. It’s discipline – the disci-

I am incredibly proud to showcase the results of

and Michael Hearn in the penthouse of Saint

pline needed to win a first place in a sight reading

this commitment and collaboration throughout the

Michael’s Hall allows our students the chance to

competition, demonstrating mastery of academic

pages of this summer’s Explorer.

experiment with a wide range of media and an even

Ultimately, at La Salle, it is never a case of Ars gratia artis: art for art’s sake. Here it’s always art for the students’ sake. We invest such time, attention, personnel, and other resources in the arts because they are an extraordinary means of fulfilling our Mission: forming men who have all the tools to

want them to see a completely involved person

Fraternally,

wider range of opportunities for self-expression and creative development. Joe Ciccimaro ’57, Joe Vettori, and their instrumental specialist colleagues

Brother James L. Butler, FSC

delivered a first place prize in the Cavalcade of

President

Explorer Summer 2013 3

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1. Ring Mass The Class of 2014 celebrated the annual Ring Mass and Ceremony on December 6, 2012.

Reverend Anthony Janton, AFSC ’69 blessed these symbols of upperclassmen during the celebration of Mass. The rings were then presented to the students by Mr. Anthony Mieczkowski ’06, Junior Class Moderator, Principal Michael O’Toole ’68, and Brother James Butler, FSC.

2. Scholarship Reception La Salle College High School awarded scholarships to forty-three eighth graders based on their scores from the Scholarship and Entrance Exam administered on December 1, 2012. On January 10, 2013, thirty-three of those young men, along with their parents, attended a Scholarship Reception in their honor.

The guests that evening were addressed by current La Salle seniors Patrick May ’13 and Andrew Stone ’13 and were hosted at their tables by a current student and a member of the faculty/staff.

Diving Championship Meet. The team won their 25th consecutive Philadelphia Catholic League Championship on February 16, 2013 at La Salle University by scoring 1,014 points (more than double the number of points of any opponent) and followed up by repeating as District 12 (City) Champions. The program has won every Philadelphia Catholic League Championship since 1989.

6. the cup runneth over The Hockey Team captured its third consecutive Flyer’s Cup Championship on March 12, 2013 with a 5-2 victory over Holy Ghost Prep at the Wells Fargo Center. In what was a rematch of last year’s Flyer’s Cup Championship, the Explorers once again prevailed and moved on to the Pennsylvania State Championship game where they were defeated

by North Allegheny in their bid to repeat as State Champions.

7. Speech and Debate

The Wrestling Team defeated Father Judge by a score of 39-25 on January 30, 2013 to win their 5th consecutive Philadelphia Catholic League Championship. Two days later, they traveled to Central High School to defeat the public champions by a score of 63-10 to capture the District 12 (City) Championship.

The Speech and Debate Program was awarded the National Catholic Forensic League School of Excellence Award and was named as one of the Top 5 Debate Schools Nationally at the National Catholic Forensic League Championships. In addition, they were named as the Top Debate School in Eastern Pennsylvania and were crowned as both Philadelphia Catholic Forensics League Debate Champions and Pennsylvania High School Speech League District 11 Champions.

4. Swing!

8. Rugby

La Salle College High School performed the Broadway musical Swing! to a weekend of sell-out crowds. A high-energy celebration of one of America’s greatest musical eras showcased the talents of over 100 La Salle students and an additional 35 young ladies from local schools. The set was built around the Competition Band and students harmonized, sang the blues, and tore up the dance floor like never before on the La Salle stage.

The Rugby Team celebrated its inaugural season with an undefeated record and a trip to the State Playoffs. Following victories against Philadelphia Catholic League opponents such as Father Judge, Roman Catholic, and Cardinal O’Hara, the team defeated Bishop Shanahan by a score of 24-6 before bowing to Burrell High School from Western Pennsylvania in the first round of the State Playoffs.

3. Wrestling

5. Making a Splash The Swimming Team earned its second straight Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA) State Championship on March 16, 2013 at Bucknell University. The Explorers compiled 290 points, 72 more than second-place Hershey, to win the Class AAA Boys’ Title at the PIAA Swimming and

9. passing the baton The Track and Field Team began the season by capturing the program’s first indoor Philadelphia Catholic League Championship since 1999. Nine athletes were named to the Indoor Track and Field All-State Team and the team finished fourth in the Pennsylvania State Championship. The team captured the outdoor Philadelphia Catholic League Championship on May 11, 2013 at Upper Darby High School and went on to repeat as District 12 (City) Champions. The highlight of the season came on April 26, 2013 when the Distance Medley Relay Team won the Penn Relays Championship of America at historic Franklin Field. In the greatest relay race in La Salle’s history, the foursome ran the fastest winning time at Penn Relays since 2005, the second best time in America this year, and what is believed to be the second fastest Distance Medley Relay time ever by a Pennsylvania high school.

10. Field Day The 10th Annual Field Day was held on April 26, 2013, in honor of Fran Johnson and Mary Jo Smith, two beloved members of the faculty who succumbed to their battles with cancer. The day, which is organized by the Office of Student Affairs and the Student Council, once again featured gorgeous weather, spirited competition, notable sportsmanship, and many smiles and laughs. Homerooms competed against each other in over three dozen events taking place simultaneously in four areas of the campus.

Some of the most popular events included the tricycle races, the “brain freeze” ice cream eating contest, a blind-folded obstacle course, a trivia challenge, and dodge ball. The winning homerooms were 1A (Freshmen), 3B (Sophomores), 8C (Juniors), and 8D (Seniors).

snap Explorer Summer 2013 5

11. Senior Mother/Son Liturgy 14. sharp dressed men

17. play ball

Over 360 seniors and their mothers gathered for Mass and dinner on May 1, 2013. The Senior Mother/Son Liturgy, which is hosted annually by the Mothers’ Club, began with the celebration of Mass and was followed by a rose ceremony and dinner. The event was held exactly one month before graduation and was a fitting tribute to the efforts of the boys and the sacrifices made by their mothers.

The Baseball Team defeated Saint Joseph’s Prep by a score of 10-0 on May 25, 2013 at Widener University to capture their first Philadelphia Catholic League Championship since 2005. The following week, they defeated the public champions from Frankford High School to advance to the Pennsylvania State Championships, where they lost in their bid to repeat as State Champions with a loss to Pennridge High School.

12. Let the music play The Spring Band Concert was held in the school auditorium on May 6, 2013. Over 200 musicians – representing ten separate ensembles – performed for over two hours to a capacity crowd. The Competition Band, fresh off capturing first place honors at the Cavalcade of Bands Competition, performed a riveting rendition of the Theme from Jurassic Park.

13. Tennis anyone?

The Tennis Team capped of an undefeated regular season by blanking Saint Joseph’s Prep by a score of 5-0 on April 30, 2013 at La Salle University to capture their 7th consecutive Philadelphia Catholic League Championship.

They went on to defeat the public champions from Central High School by a score of 5-0 to win the District 12 (City) Championship and advance to the Pennsylvania State Championships. The Explorers defeated their first two round opponents and reached the semifinals for the first time in school history before bowing to the eventual champions from Conestoga High School.

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On May 10, 2010, over 250 sharply dressed seniors accompanied by their beautiful dates attended the Senior Prom. The night was filled with dancing, food, great music, and good times shared by friends and classmates at Spring Mill Manor in Ivyland, PA.

15. sing along More than fifty students from La Salle College High School performed in the Spring Choral Concert on May 13, 2013 as part of the 30th Annual Arts Festival. Under the direction of Mr. Mark Norman, the school’s Choral Director, six different ensembles performed seventeen songs including: Red Red Rose, Always Look On The Bright Side Of Life, and Home.

16. state of the art The 30th Annual Arts Festival was held in early May and the Art Department exhibited over 400 pieces of student artwork throughout the school. Over 90% of the students who took an art class at La Salle had at least one piece of artwork included in the exhibition, which ranged from ceramics and sculptures to drawings and paintings. The student artwork was critiqued by two judges and awards were given to pieces that displayed excellence.

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The Lacrosse Team repeated as Philadelphia Catholic League Champions by defeating Saint Joseph’s Prep by a score 11-6 on May 22, 2013 at Plymouth-Whitemarsh High School. The following day, they defeated the public champions from Northeast High School by a score of 18-4 to win the District 12 (City) Championship and advance to the Pennsylvania State Championships. The 2012-2013 sports season at La Salle College High School fittingly ended at Hersheypark Stadium – the sweetest place on earth – on June 8, 2013 when the Explorers took their twenty game winning streak and dethroned the three-time State Champions from Conestoga High School by a score of 13-4 to win the Pennsylvania State Championship.

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Music Fills The Air

by Christopher A. Mele ’13

Under the direction of Mr. Joseph Vettori, the Competition Band is the top band at La Salle College High School. It is an extracurricular band that practices two to three times a week after school. The Competition Band is a big band ensemble that is made up of the top jazz musicians at La Salle and students undergo a stringent audition process by instrument type in order to earn a spot in the band.

ExplorerSpring 2013 7

Music Fills The Air CONTINUED The main purpose of this band is competing in the Cavalcade of Bands competitions. Schools from throughout the Philadelphia Area perform and compete in front of an audience including a panel of judges who score the bands in areas such as intonation, style, and soloists.

Bands are rated on a point-based scale and can earn ratings from Very Good to Excellent to Outstanding to Superior. Along with the overall ensemble awards, there are also individual awards that are won by the top soloists of the competition. Over the last four years, La Salle College High School’s Competition Band has placed as one of the top three bands in the highest division of the Cavalcade Championships. Last year, the Competition Band finished second by a tenth of a point, but redeemed itself this year by capturing the coveted championship title. La Salle has won the Cavalcade Championship Sight Reading Award two years in a row and had the top soloist of the Cavalcade Championship in back-to-back years. La Salle College High School’s Competition Band has cemented itself as one of the best performing high school bands in the Delaware Valley.

The Competition Band can also be seen at many La Salle functions throughout the year. The band has become the house band for the school’s Auction and Open House. It is also featured at the winter and spring concerts. The Competition Band has also played at venues such as the Franklin Institute and at the University of the Art’s Caplin Hall.

As well as performing at live venues, the Competition Band has a very unique opportunity. Each year, with the help of Music Department faculty, the Competition Band is recorded live and featured on its own CD. All of the audio is recorded, mixed, and mastered in house, which gives students the rare opportunity to work with professional recording microphones and equipment and get a first-hand look at the recording process.

The Competition Band offers an opportunity for students to further their understanding and education of music. The size of the ensemble allows for acute attention to detail and a narrowing of focus that is less common in other high school music programs. The professional expertise of Mr. Joe Vettori is constantly on display as he pushes the band to hone in on finer details that make the difference between a good sounding band and a professional sounding band. These details make all the difference on the professional level charts that the Competition Band plays. The band’s repertoire does not consist of watered-down big band charts; rather, the Competition Band consistently performs intricate and complex charts written for professional big bands. For example, two of the more popular charts played in the last few years have been Georgia On My Mind and Stardust, both selections written for Doc Severinsen and The Tonight Show Band in the 1960’s. The Competition Band plays charts that were commissioned for professional jazz musicians. That alone attests to the supreme and unmatched work and dedication of Mr. Joe Vettori to help his students achieve excellence.

The lessons acquired from participating in this band do not stop at music.

Granted, students are taught the finer points of jazz performance, but also several life skills that come along with doing things at a level of excellence.

Preparation, dedication, and the importance of repetition are some of the many skills that come to the forefront of each student’s mind as they rigorously prepare throughout the year. Essential life skills are learned in the process, which is yet another benefit experienced by the students participating in the Competition Band.

The Competition Band is a chance for students to take the next big step in their musical development and challenge themselves. Members are privy to an experience that is unique and it becomes another chance to branch out and develop closer relationships with fellow students. Under the direction of Mr. Joe Vettori, La Salle College High School’s competition band has been enjoying some of its most successful years and only looks to continue a rich and storied tradition of excellence.

Explorer Summer 2013 8

5th Period Band The 5th Period Band is one of the six bands that La Salle College High School offers to its students during class periods. Otherwise known as the Honors Advanced Band, it is the highest level band offered as part of the curriculum at La Salle College High School. The class is hand-selected and taught by Mr. Joe Vettori. Students meet every day during fifth period to rehearse the songs selected for the band.

5th Period Band is a larger ensemble

to get a private lesson from one

and plays a variety of musical

of the many instrument teachers.

selections. From Pop to big band

These lessons are given by actively

swing, to cut time Latin, to funk

performing professional musicians,

the 5th Period Band’s repertoire is

all of whom also teach on a col-

large and versatile. Artists such as

legiate level at local universities

Michael Jackson, Count Basie, and

such as the University of the Arts.

Tower of Power have all made their

Students get to work one-on-one

way into performances by the 5th

with their teacher and focus on

The 5th period band is a great way

Period Band. They have become a

weaknesses and improving their

for students to continue their pursuit

crowd favorite at school concerts

overall skills. These lessons prove

of music in a comfortable environ-

due to their fun and more popular

to be invaluable; particularly, as a

ment surrounded by peers and a

selections.

student attends year after year and

supportive faculty; however, it is

develops a relationship with their

also a very fulfilling social experi-

own instrumental teacher over their

ence. Members of the band consist

four years at La Salle College High

of students from all walks of the

School. Teachers become mentors

school community. Athletes, lab

Along with playing as an ensemble, one or two times a week each student is given the opportunity

and friends that are not only con-

managers, actors, and academically-

cerned with their student’s musical

gifted students all find themselves

development, but their growth as a

as part of the band, which creates

person.

a wide and diverse range of stu-

Explorer Summer 2013 9

dents all rallied by a common interest. It’s truly amazing to see the friendships that blossom because of the opportunities that the band presents. Music fills the air as well as the lives of each of the musicians in these bands and it is often the common link that leads to the start of life-time friendships.

at La Salle for 45 years and started the

At La Salle College High School, music

String Ensemble in 1983. When people

is considered to be an integral part

talk about La Salle’s Music Department,

of a student’s education. Recognizing

the String Ensemble is commonly

that students come to La Salle with a

overlooked, but that is quickly changing.

The String Ensemble has built a great

wide variety of musical backgrounds,

reputation throughout the years and will

the Music Department offers courses

continue to grow and enhance their

at a variety of levels of musical abil-

playing ability for years to come.

ity so as to provide an appropriate course of instruction to all.

One of the courses offered is Small Ensembles, which introduces music students to the unique concerns of small ensemble performance. Special attention is paid to the literature of classical music. Students gain experience in performance with ensembles such as guitar ensemble and string ensemble, as well as learning the basic concepts about the history of classical music. Small Ensembles takes place every day during third period. The class is split into two different groups – the Guitar Ensemble, who practice in the chorus room, and the String Ensemble who practice in the band room. The String Ensemble is conducted by

AllThings Mr. Joseph F. Ciccimaro ’57, who has been teaching

Strings

by Kyle Samuel Stofka ’13

ExplorerSpring 2013 10

In September of 2009, I walked into that third period class having no clue as to what to expect. I was eager to start playing at La Salle, but the orchestra consisted of twelve students – the smallest orchestra I had ever been part of. We would practice every day for half an hour and then use the last ten minutes to eat lunch.

We played a variety songs from Barber of Seville (Gioachino Rossini) to Bosa Azul (Bert Ligon). We were a very active orchestra, playing different events almost weekly from Board of Trustees events to Open House, the orchestra always had something to do. The music wasn’t all that difficult and we were not being challenged. This would all change the following school year.

Sophomore year came around and the orchestra now consisted of thirteen kids. This year was similar to the year before, being busy playing for different events, but there was something different. Mr. C started giving us more challenging music. We worked harder and played anything he threw our way. After the Winter Concert, Mr. C had a couple of options of pieces for us to play for our Spring Concert. He gave us an arrangement from Pirates of the Caribbean, and he told us it was a difficult piece. We started practicing right away, and right away ran into trouble. The piece had different rhythms for each section of the orchestra going on at the same time, which was something we were not accustomed to. It was not looking good, but we pushed harder and practiced more and more. We were finally getting it and were ready by the time the concert came around.

At the spring concert in 2011, we played the piece better than we had ever played it before. The eruption of applause from the audience was a feeling that none of us will soon forget. At that moment, the string ensemble changed forever. That song, that night, and that concert are still talked about in class. Mr. C finally knew that we were capable of so much more.

Everything changed during my junior year. Mr. C and the orchestra knew we had to live up to expectations from the Spring Concert. He continued to give us challenging pieces. For the Christmas Concert, we decided to do an arrangement of “A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens, which would be read by Matt Volpe ’12 and performed by the orchestra. The piece was brutally difficult. It was a 23 minute long song that required continuous playing.

Agustin Tomas Marty ’13 HOME Wyndmoor, PA SCHOOL Home Schooled ACADEMICS National Honor Society INSTRUMENT Violin ACTIVITIES String Ensemble, Track and Field, Cross Country, Swimming COLLEGE Swarthmore College, Recipient of the Swarthmore College Scholarship (Valued at $173,000) LITTLE KNOWN FACT Agustin’s parents moved to Miami after his junior year. Determined not to leave La Salle, Agustin lived with relatives and finished his senior year at La Salle College High School.

The dynamics were key and difficult since there was a story being read while we were playing. The piece was challenging and demanded our full attention. The concert was amazing. Everyone was in awe and thoroughly impressed by the performance and we once again received a standing ovation. Spring arrived and we all thought that we couldn’t possibly perform anything more difficult than the piece from Pirates of the Caribbean that we had performed the previous year. Mr. C had something in store for us.

One day in class he sat us down and showed us a piece on the SMARTBoard that was divided in three movements, on the projector. We listened to it, and laughed.

We thought he was kidding, we didn’t actually believe he seriously wanted us to play this piece for the Spring Concert. Even our string instructor Mr. Teperman thought it was a bit of a stretch, but for whatever reason Mr. C believed in us. Right off the bat, we were struggling as this was by far the hardest piece we had ever played in the orchestra. We started having additional rehearsals in the mornings once or twice a week so we could get extra practice. It started to come along, and we were dumbfounded as to how we were playing this song. The Spring Concert was right around the corner and we were ready. The concert went great as we played the song, and it sounded fantastic. The orchestra got so many compliments it was unbelievable. We had outdone ourselves, and we couldn’t have been prouder. Little did we know it would just get harder the following year.

My senior year arrived and the orchestra had grown to seventeen boys – the most ever. The fall of 2012 rolled in and we were back in the band room practicing every day. Mr. C gave us a piece that was composed back in the 1800’s. The piece was very difficult because of the different time signatures and various dynamics. It was no ordinary piece and it was broken up into many small movements that were all different from each other.

It was very difficult, but we brought back the morning practices, and every Wednesday morning we had a rehearsal before school. The Winter Concert came around and we exceeded expectations. Again, the audience was amazed by the song and our ability to play such a challenging piece.

“From the first day I “shadowed” to my last exam, La Salle has not only been an excellent academic institution, but a wonderful community – a community in which one may be passionate about something and find others with similar passions and supporting each other’s efforts to improve.”

A week after returning from Christmas break, John Bense ’14 told Mr. C that he had a song he thought we should try to play for the Spring Concert. Mr. C even had his doubts. We sat down, listened, and watched it being performed. Mr. C then asked if we thought we could play it. He said it was going to be a lot of work, but that had never stopped us before. We decided to go for it. Immediately, we ran into trouble, and faith in the song was running thin. We brought back morning rehearsals. This song is the most challenging song the string ensemble had ever seen. We persevered and practiced hard and it began to come together. At times we were discouraged, but we fought through and worked hard. Everyone stepped up for the song, from the freshmen to our senior soloist Agustín Marty. The concert came around and everyone was blown away by our performance. The performance was indescribable.

We had come so far in four years. From a small group of twelve that was barely challenged to a bona fide orchestra playing a piece of professional difficulty.

Over the past four years, the string ensemble has transformed from a mediocre group to a respected orchestra.

Mr. C has changed the group forever by implementing morning practices and pushing and believing in us when we didn’t believe in ourselves. All of the members of the String Ensemble have put so much work into the group and can be very proud of our accomplishments.

Mr C. has achieved so much over his amazing career, but if there is one thing he should be proud of, it’s what he has been able to do with this orchestra. He turned us from average players into respected performers. The third period String Ensemble has been my favorite period of the school day for all four years of my time at La Salle.

The work we accomplish and the music we produce in those thirty minutes is a testament to our success. The bar is set high for future performers and performances, but with Mr. C conducting them, there is no doubt in my mind that they’ll be able to handle anything.

Watch out La Salle, there’s a band emerging, and soon, the Music Department will be known for all things strings.

The Man

by Preston Michael Murray ’13

The date was December 5, 2009 and the La Salle Explorers were in Bethlehem, PA playing Easton Area High School in the PIAA Quarterfinals in Football. The temperature was 15°F, it snowed the entire game, and Mike Bennett ’10 drilled a 35-yard field goal to defeat Easton in a 17-14 nail-biter.

Although the weather that day was horrible, students filled the stands. In addition to the students, there was far greater a force to be reckoned with, a group of boys who went to every football game to cheer the team on through music – the Pep Band. The Pep Band was at every game that season. They kept the football team’s spirits up and eventually saw them crowned as Pennsylvania State Champions. Even as a freshman, I knew I was part of a special group – a group that was respected not only by the football team, but by the entire school community.

The Pep Band, a beloved activity within the music community at La Salle College High School, is the favorite of many students because of the great environment of playing for packed crowds on fall weekends. The band is spearheaded by the patriarchs of the music program at La Salle: Mr. Joe Ciccimaro ’57 (AKA Mr. C) who has been at La Salle since 1968, along with Mr. Joe Vettori who has been at the school since 1983. These two men are devoted to their jobs, love teaching music to younger musicians, and successfully manage to recruit dozens of musicians into the music program each year.

My first memory of the music program was when Mr. C asked me to join the Pep Band while in 8th grade.

Even before I was accepted to La Salle, I remember my first year as a member of the Pep Band. It was filled with fun times as I was able to become acclimated to the music program and truly feel like I was a part of this incredible program.

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The Pep Band plays great charts that include: Smoke on the Water, Bully, Sir Duke, and 25 Or 6 To 4. The song list changes every year as songs are removed from the list in favor of new, contemporary choices. These songs are added, removed, and modified during the band’s summer practices that start in July – long before the start of the football season.

These practices are conducted by the senior band officers/directors. Freshmen are invited to play with the Pep Band during the Jazz Camp, which is held the month before. These freshmen come in nervous, not knowing what to expect; however, through the friendliness of the upperclassmen and the thrill of the experience, these timid boys are accepted into this great band. Another amazing thing about the Pep Band is that it is truly a brotherhood. Before every football game, the members of the Pep Band gather in “The Pit” outside of the cafeteria to play volleyball, eat, and relax before the game. All the guys love game day because of the anticipation of what is about to come. The football team has enjoyed so much success in recent years and the Pep Band has been in its pocket the entire time.

Throughout the last four years, the football team has compiled a record of 50-7 (.877), which supports my theory that the Pep Band brings the team luck and is a “secret weapon” for success.

“Not to mention the band as an intricate part of the football team’s success would be a sin. The Football Team and the Pep Band were a dominant combination and proved to be formidable opponents within the Philadelphia Catholic League, District 12, and the PIAA. When you mention La Salle sports, specifically the football team, you can’t help but mention the Pep Band. The two formed a symbiotic relationship, thriving off of each other, and giving a great atmosphere and energy during games.

Building relationships with members of the Pep Band off the field came to be one of the most enjoyable things of my four years at La Salle. We started and ended each game with them, and we are forever grateful and appreciative of their incredible talents and support.”

Andrew Carlone ’13 Captain – Football Team The football team has won five consecutive Philadelphia Catholic League Championships, four straight District 12 (City) Championships, and a Pennsylvania State Championship. We made it to the Final Four of the PIAA Championships four years in a row and the Pep Band has been to every one of those games. The band has traveled everywhere the team has played. Our instruments went to home games at Plymouth-Whitemarsh all the way to Bergen Catholic and Rutgers Stadium in New Jersey.

Along the way, we made two stops in Hershey, PA. For many of these games, we were the only student section; which meant that we had to step up to the challenge and not only play, but cheer like there’s no tomorrow.

Band for the playing of the school’s Alma Mater.

A unification of both groups – the band playing gold instruments as the football team holds their golden helmets. The tradition repeats at the conclusion of the game. Win or lose, the team gathers in front of the band and together they perform the Alma Mater. Even on the rare occasions when the team would fall short of a victory, they would still belt out the lyrics, showing that they are one, unbroken chain that will forever remain strong.

The band, in a similar fashion, is also unbroken as we always keep playing through the tough times. Band President and Pep Band Director Chris Mele ’13 said it perfectly as the team was down by 21 points to Coatesville, “our minutes might be numbered, but the music keeps on playing.” One song the band plays several times a game is Fling Out, which is La Salle’s touchdown song.

Chances are that if you’ve been to a La Salle football game, then you’ve heard Fling Out. Win or lose, rain or shine, it is a long-time tradition of the Pep Band to play Louie Louie at the end of every game.

During the song, we let our guys “solo” on their instrument. They might play the alto sax or jam out on the cowbell, The Pep Band is open to any kind of soloing to celebrate another great game and performance, because during the season, there is a lot to cheer about.

HOME Abington, PA SCHOOL Immaculate Conception BVM School ACADEMICS National Honor Society

LITTLE KNOWN FACT Four three years, Griffin was the soloist who sang the National Anthem a capella at all of La Salle’s home football and basketball games. His powerful voice played to a number of sellout crowds.

LEADERSHIP Band Officer, Student Ambassador INSTRUMENT Trumpet ACTIVITIES Competition Band, Concert Band, Jazz Band, Pep Band, Pit Orchestra, Chorus, Theater, Engineering Club, Italian Club, Ultimate Frisbee SERVICE Summer Service Trip (Navajo Indian Reservation) COLLEGE Drexel University, Recipient of the Dean’s Scholarship (Valued at $80,000)

Ask any student in the Pep Band – past or present – and I have no doubt that they will exclaim nothing but positive stories. We are not a marching band that lines up in formation and wears funny uniforms and hats. We are not a band where the directors rule with an iron fist and expect perfection. Rather, we are a band whose main goal is to make the football games a fun event and lead our fellow Explorers to victory. The Pep Band is a perfect example of La Salle’s motto: “Enter to Learn, Leave to Serve” as we learn how important music is in our lives and to the La Salle community, all while serving as musical stewards for the school and our incredible brotherhood. Any musical student entering La Salle should definitely consider joining the Pep Band because the memories will be everlasting and the friendships made will endure forever.

Hail La Salle our Alma Mater, Hail all Hail!

The Pep Band helps to provide one of the most emotional parts of each game. At every game, before the playing of the National Anthem, the entire football team assembles in front of the Pep

Griffin James Ripley ’13

Although the last football game of this past season was played on December 7th, the climax of the Pep Band’s season and arguably one of the greatest Football games in La Salle History was played a month prior on November 10, 2012. La Salle squeaked out a 28-27 overtime victory over archrival Saint Joseph’s Prep in front of an overflow crowd at Plymouth-Whitemarsh Stadium as Sean Coleman scored on a slant pass from Chris Kane to tie the game and Ryan Winslow drilled the extra point to bring home the championship. The Pep Band proceeded to play Fling Out about twenty times while going insane from the win. The victory marked the quintessential pep band experience and proved that the Pep Band is one of the greatest activities for a music student because of times like these, when music and athletics combine to create something truly amazing.

“La Salle means so much to me – an outlet of creativity as well as an incredible educational institution and social tool.

The main lesson I have learned over my four years was to accept – accept not only myself, but also to accept others and the way things change I have learned to appreciate what others have to offer not only as musicians, but as people.”

TheVoice

by Mark Lewis Chandler ’13

On September 10, 2009, I walked into the chorus room for the first time. I had no idea what to expect. Grade school had not prepared me to be in a choral program, and nervousness flowed through my veins. What I did not know as I walked in the chorus room that day was that chorus would define my next four years at La Salle.

For a while, especially during freshman year, I questioned what chorus was all about, and how it made an impact on the school community. However, the realization of how important chorus was struck me quickly, as I got to meet the all the guys that were a part of the chorus. These guys came from all areas of the school, and over the next four years, the members of chorus came to represent the student body as a whole. As far as I am concerned, chorus to me is one of the most important activities offered at La Salle College High School.

Mr. Mark Norman has directed the choral program since 2004. He directs all three vocal groups: Freshman Ensemble, Upperclassmen Chorus, and The Belcrofters, which are all scheduled as classes during the school day. All freshmen who sing in the chorus begin in the Freshman Ensemble. This group usually consists of seven to twelve guys who come from all different areas from the school, whether they are athletes, artists, tech guys, or instrumentalists. This helps to bring the many groups at La Salle to one place, where the brotherhood that this school preaches really begins to take form. In this ensemble, songs used in concert can include a variety of musical styles from American folk to doo wop to rock to even some Caribbean tunes. This ensemble serves as an introduction to the choral program at La Salle, and helps prepare students for life at the school.

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After freshman year, any student can take upperclassmen chorus as a class that meets during fourth period.

Many students use this class opportunity to fulfill their fine arts requirement. However, the majority of students who take this class, especially juniors and seniors, end up taking the class again. This ensemble is a little more advanced than freshman chorus, as vocal parts are typically split up into four distinct groups: Tenor I, Tenor II, Bass I, and Bass II. In order to fully grasp the music, Mr. Norman holds sectionals during the school day in order to facilitate the learning of the music, as well as to teach students about the theory and style of what they are singing. Similarly to freshman chorus, much of the music sung in upperclassmen chorus is based on religious and traditional folk songs along with other styles such as rock and pop.

Upperclassmen also have the opportunity to join The Belcrofters, the advanced vocal ensemble at La Salle.

In order to join this ensemble, a student must first audition and be approved by Mr. Norman. This group is much more advanced than the other two ensembles, focusing on more technically and stylistically difficult arrangements. Many of the songs that this group sings are sung a capella, meaning that there is no piano accompaniment. In addition, many of the songs performed are sung in a language different than English such as Latin or even Irish Gaelic. By doing so, many doors are opened to sing some of the most beautiful songs one could ever imagine. One such that particularly sticks out to me is called Prayer of the Children – a Croatian song which had lyrics and harmonies that continue to touch me to this day.

However, The Belcrofters are also known to perform many popular songs as well, such as Hey There, Delilah by the Plain White T’s, Somewhere Only We Know by Keane, Hey Jude by the Beatles, and The Lion Sleeps Tonight by The Tokens. By studying all of these different styles, students in The Belcrofters become more musically educated.

Patrick Edward May ’13 HOME Lansdale, PA SCHOOL Gwynedd-Mercy Academy Elementary School ACADEMICS AP Scholar, National Honor Society LEADERSHIP Student Ambassador INSTRUMENTS Piano, Trumpet, Guitar ACTIVITIES Competition Band, Concert Band, Jazz Band, Lab Band, Pep Band, Chorus, Theater, Celtic Club, Italian Club, Ski Club, Engineering Club, Soccer, Rugby, WEXP, Track and Field, Intramurals, Lead Role in Musical Theater Productions at Mount Saint Joseph Academy SERVICE Summer Service Trips (Bolivia and Navajo Indian Reservation), Urban Immersion, Operation Santa Claus, Tutoring at La Salle Academy

There is always a stereotypical image of high school music students. When I came in to La Salle, I questioned who would be the typical chorus kid. What I soon discovered is that there is no typical chorus kid at La Salle. The students that make up the chorus come from many areas of the school. In the Class of 2013 alone, students include a Division 1 Football recruit, two starting varsity Basketball players, three members of the Competition Band, and one of the most well-rounded athletes in the entire school. The chorus represents La Salle as a whole. This school is not made up of distinct groups. Rather, it consists of an intermingling of ideas, hobbies, passions, and experiences. The chorus accurately depicts this and being a member of chorus fosters mutual respect for every other student who attends the school. People gain an understanding for each other and, in doing so, help create the two most important characteristics that La Salle has to offer: Brotherhood and Respect.

COLLEGE University of Scranton, Recipient of the Dean’s Scholarship (Valued at $80,000) LITTLE KNOWN FACT Patrick has risen through the ranks of the Boy Scouts and, on November 5, 2012, attained the rank of Eagle Scout. In addition, he works two seasonal jobs – ski instructor at Shawnee Mountain in the winter and lifeguard at Nor-Gwyn Pool during the summer.

“La Salle has had such a huge impact on my life. It encouraged me to get involved and shaped me into who I am today. I can truly call it my second home. It granted me opportunities that I had never dreamed of before – the possibilities here are endless.”

Being in the choral program the past four years has meant a great deal to me. As a nervous freshman, the chorus helped me gain confidence in not only my musical ability, but also in my ability as a student.

I credit being a member of chorus for so much of the personal success I have had at La Salle, whether it was surviving chemistry sophomore year, working towards playing trombone in the Competition Band, or having a lead role in the musical. Also, by being in the choral program, I have created a number of friendships which I have no doubt will last a lifetime. I formed bonds with guys who have graduated as well as students who still have three more years at La Salle simply by sitting in the chorus room before and after school and just hanging out. It is quite a network. Being in the choral program has encouraged me to continue singing in college by trying out for different a capella groups.

The choral program has helped me in the past, continues to help me in the present, and will certainly help me in the future after I walk out of the chorus room doors for the last time. The chorus at La Salle will always hold a special place in my heart. I am thankful every day for the opportunity that I have been given, the relationships I have built with Mr. Norman and the other students, and the musical talents which are such an important aspect of my life. Chorus is very special at La Salle and I have been blessed to have been a part of this special group for four years.

2013

Congratulations to the Class of 2013 Mitchell Winslow Abramo Richard John Atcavage Peter Deem Auteri Michael Francis Avallone, III Arthur Jordan Bailin Nicco Christopher Baratta Ryan Fitzgerald Barr Julian Spencer Baseman William Ryan Baumher Stefan A. Bergman Russel Schaeffer Bleiler, IV Dominic Bonitatis, IV Timothy Justin Bontempi Michael E. Bowen Ryan Vincent Bowes Vito Nicholas Braccia, Jr. Matthew William Albert Brecht John Daniel Breslin Eric W. Bridgeford Johnray Almario Briones Damani Malik Brown Steven Thomas Bushold John Anthony Camusi Nicholas Salvatore Capperella Vincenzo Antonio Cardi Andrew Gene Carlone Aaron Jacob Carreras James Joseph Carroll Michael Anthony Casey Michael P. Catalino Michael Thomas Celoni

Joonyoung Cha Matthew Mark Chadwick Mark Lewis Chandler Kaherdin Charles Anthony John Checchio Austin Bradley Cho Jeffrey David Cimbalista Sean Thomas Cincotta Jared Steven Clapper Thomas Edward Cockill Sean Michael Coleman Zachary Kevin Connor Patrick Wallace Cooney Thomas McNichol Coyle Jesse William Crowe Alexander Lorenzo Cuoci Paul G. Curcillo, III Joseph John D’Angelo, III Nicholas Umberto D’Orazio Matthew Joseph Daly Daniel Joseph DeBrakeleer Gerald Leo Degnan Michael Paul deLuca Nicholas Gerald DeMaria Anthony Michael DeSantis Carlos Martin Diaz Anthony P. DiGiovanni Joseph Thomas Dooney Patrick Joseph Dougherty John Patrick Dusing Richard F. Eckert

Andrew K. Eidenshink Michael Christian Eife Christian Armand Endrigian Christopher Michael Esposito Nathan Paul Ezzo Jonathan Raymond Fabriziani Joshua Samuel Fabriziani Richard William Fabrizio, Jr. Christopher John Fagan Brian Patrick Farley Connor Paul Fassnacht Michael Paul Fassnacht Timothy Francis Feoli Patrick James Finlay Brian Robert Fischer Matthew Burton FitzPatrick Daniel Wilson Fleck, Jr. Jacob Michael Ford Charles Anthony Formica John Paul Forrest Lucas Gabriel Friel Joshua Tella Gelenberg Mitchell Louis Gilbert James Tyler Gillen David Benjamin Givens, Jr. Robert Joseph Gormisky Joshua Graham Andrew Michael Grajewski Mark Patrick Grasela G. Matthew Greco Ronald Thomas Greco

Kevin David Groome Alexander Michael Guckin Andrew Patrick Halton Denis Edward Harp Melvin Lamar Hawkins Joseph Jerome Heidt Jared Thomas Herrmann Nicholas Alexander Higgins Peter Gregory Hildebrandt Mark David Himler Steven Michael Hladczuk Patrick Joseph Hoffman, Jr. Evan Ezekiel Holder Ryan Joseph Holly Nicholas Matthew Hreshko David Martin Hunt, II Frederick Joseph Ilsemann, IV Malik K. Janifer Brendan Connolly Jaquay Francis Peter Johnson Christopher John Kane Luke P. Kane Philip Francis Xavier Kearns Austin Michael Kelly Owen James Kelly Conor Michael Kennedy Daniel Liam Kiely Andrew Jeffry King Brendan Joseph Koch Nicholas Arkady

Kauffman Kreter

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Matthew Adam Krulikowski Brian Robert LaGreca Conor Elwin Lavelle Dane Patrick Lavery Christopher Allen LePrevost Joseph Lerro Michael Edward London David Dessalines Losier William Christopher Lucas Christian Gerard Lutschaunig Kurt Reed Lutter Kevin Richard Lynch Mark Andrew Lynch Colin Paul MacCrory Sean Patrick MacIntosh John Martin Magee Joseph Michael Maginnis David James Malone Mark Norman Manero Mark Manjardi, Jr. Christopher Joseph Markmann Joseph Thomas Markmann Agustin Tomas Marty Dante Joseph Massi, III Nicholas Michael Master Connor Thomas Masterson John Vincent Mastronardo John Robert Matthews Patrick Edward Roguls May Peter N. McCall Luke Edward McCann

Christopher McCrea Brett Alan McCutcheon Chad Michael McCutcheon James Kelly McDonnell Nicholas Christian McDowell Nolen Richard McElwee Brendan Michael McGonigle Connor Bradley McHugh Samuel Joseph McKenzie Connor Joseph McNally Brian John McNamara Christopher John McPeak Paul Louis Melchiorre, III Christopher A. Mele Christopher Michael Melillo Anthony Louis Mercader Charles Montgomery

Meredith, V William John Mischler Anthony Gabriel Moffa Robert Francis Moore, III Colin Patrick Moran Matthew James Morozzi Patrick Joseph Morrissey Corey Carlos Muggler Preston Michael Murray Sean Thomas Naessens Jonathan Zia Naji Michael Christian Naples Russell Tuseck Napolitano Johnathan Michael Neufeld

Thomas Francis Noonan James Michael O’Connor, III Michael James O’Connor Kevin Francis O’Donnell Ryan Edward O’Donnell Evan Joseph O’Hara Shea Timothy O’Neill Dominic Michael Padova Nicholas David Paglione Michael T. Pascali Luke Louis Persichetti Vincent Joseph Peruto Joseph Picard Philip Gerard Plourde Joseph R. Podraza, III Dad Poquie James Henry Princivalle Evan Daniel Quain Matthew T. Rambo Gerald Edward Rath, IV Matthew A. Redican Kevin J. Reed Sean Michael Regan Conor Anthony Resch Griffin James Ripley Jamalie Charles Roberts Brian Timothy Robinson Christopher Carmen Rocco Gregory Charles Rogers Ostap Royik Frank Charles Russomano, Jr.

John Paul Ryan Michael Steven Ryan, Jr. Erik Shane Scannapieco Adam James Schaal Zachary S. Scheier Andrew John Schieve William Thomas Schoen Kevin Edward Scott Matthew Richard Scott Michael Andrew Selner Scott Patrick Serpico Patrick Joseph Shafer John Stephen Shields Anthony Leo Silvestri Trent Lawrence Simmons Matthew Thomas Skidmore Riley Dennis Slusarski Stephen S. Smith, Jr. Robert P. Speese Thomas Andrew Spiteri Anthony Thomas Sticco Kyle Samuel Stofka Andrew Joseph Stone Robert Vito Stratton Aaron Joseph Streets Matthew E. Strolle Amar Jamal Stukes Joseph C. Sullivan Robert W. Suter, III Gavin Lucas Teichman Dylan James Tice-Carroll

Eric Anthony Torres John Thomas Tyrrell Edward Michael Tyszka George Thomas Uhrich Joseph Samuel Vanelli, III John Richard Vogel Andrew Fox Volz Timothy William Walker Connor Thomas Walsh Evan Blaise Walsh Ryan Travis Walters Nicholas Sergei Ward Sean Reagle Waters Colin William Weber Benjamin P. Wild Ryan Michael Williams Ryan Henry Winslow Adam Stanislaw Wisniowski Alexander Joseph Wolanin Ki Young Won Andrew Michael Yeamans Joon Hyuk Yoon Martin Richard Zefelippo

Extraordinary Extracurriculars The Class of 2013 included fifty-five athletes who were recruited to participate in athletics by a college or university.

The 55 student athletes will participate in twelve sports at thirty-five different colleges and universities stretching from Maine to California.

Pennsylvania State Champions Lacrosse and Swimming Pennsylvania State Championship Final Four Finishes/Appearances – 10 Cross Country, Football, Hockey, Indoor Track and Field, Lacrosse, Outdoor Track and Field, Soccer, Swimming, Tennis, and Water Polo Philadelphia Catholic League Championships – 10 Baseball, Golf, Football, Indoor Track and Field, Lacrosse, Soccer, Swimming, Tennis, Track and Field, and Wrestling District 12 (City) Championships – 8 Baseball, Football, Lacrosse, Soccer, Swimming, Tennis, Track and Field, and Wrestling Flyers Cup Championship Hockey Penn Relays Championship of America Distance Medley Relay – First Place

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Academic Excellence The Class of 2013 included seventeen boys who were recognized by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation – ten National Merit Semifinalists and seven National Merit Commended Students.

269 Graduates from 88 Elementary Schools and 71 Zip Codes 99% of the Class of 2013 will be Attending 97 Colleges and Universities in 22 States 107 Members of the National Honor Society (Minimum GPA of 3.75) 117 AP Scholars (a score of 3 or higher on AP exams taken during the 20011-2012 academic year 75% of the Class of 2013 Earned over $32 million in Documented Scholarships and Grants Let The Music Play The coveted Cavalcade of Bands Competition Championship trophy returned to La Salle College High School as the Competition Band captured the Overall Championship with a rating of Superior with Honors. In addition, they received awards for the Best Trumpet Section and Best Sight Reading.

The other day, I was reviewing the history of musical theater at La Salle College High School. I noticed a collection of well-known shows such as Godspell and Grease that are typically performed by high schools and are recycled every ten years or so.

However, one show stands out from the rest.

Swing! is a musical revue that consists of the hits of the swing era. The show consists of a variety of swing tunes, from the sultry melodies of Harlem to the upbeat tunes of the USO era. When the 2013 musical production was announced by director Micky Dominick, the news was received with great enthusiasm from the dancers. This would be the first show since 2003’s Footloose whose focus would be on dancing. Senior dancer Casey Lambert (Gwynedd Mercy High School) recalls, “I was really

How To Succeed In Theater

by Daniel Joseph DeBrakeleer ’13

excited. I heard that it was a dance show, so naturally I was excited!” However, some cast members were not so quickly convinced. “I was excited because I love swing music, but at the same time I had no idea what to expect because I had never heard of the show,” reflects senior Mark Chandler. Mr. Dominick had anticipated this mixed reaction, and scheduled two one-hour pre-audition dance sessions with choreographer Louis Palena that would give participants an idea of what swing dancing was about. Despite the sore legs and slightly hindered breathing, both sessions ended with a room full of excited performers.

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The cast members were not the only students beaming with excitement. La Salle’s jazz band also rose to the occasion. La Salle’s band program places a great emphasis on jazz, as indicated by the school’s distinguished Competition Band.

Even from the first time the band read through the music, it was clear that the show would be a true test of musicianship. The show also presented a unique opportunity for the band and the cast to interact. Because the bandstand was placed onstage, many numbers involved interac-

multiple costumes to each member of the cast – that’s well over one hundred costumes. She even fit tuxedos for the band, who had been working relentlessly under the instruction of Mr. Joseph Vetorri. Despite being in the middle of competition season, the band managed to master the whole show well before opening night. The show would not have been possible without the hard work of these individuals, which is something La Salle students have come to appreciate.

On the other side of the school, the girls would be rehearsing Bounce Me, Brother. By splitting the dance rehearsals into student-led functions, the cast not only mastered the choreography, but learned to enjoy the high-energy routines.

tion between the performers and the musicians.

For instance, at one point I was able to pick up my alto saxophone and play a haunting rendition of Harlem Nocturne, accompanied by dancer Kiera Librera. This type of staging harkens back to real dance clubs of the 1930’s and 1940’s, where singers and dancers would convene around the bandstand for hours of swingin’ music.

While the production staff worked relentlessly, the students rallied together. While the choreographer worked with an individual dancer, seniors would often initiate impromptu dance rehearsals for group numbers. Underclassmen would listen as the seniors reviewed counts and steps.

I believe that this is part of what makes La Salle’s student body stand out. Students can work together without adult supervision and accomplish tasks by their own means. During long dance rehearsals, the guys would move down the hall to run Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy.

tured many rising performers. Sophomores Ryan Sax and Vito Scutti delivered stunning renditions of Kitchen Mechanics’ Night Out and I’ve Got the World on a String, respectively.

Meanwhile, Freshman Joe Miller doubled as a lead vocalist and a lead dancer throughout the show. Swing! exhibited the talents of a diverse group of students.

Because nobody was to be spared from the challenge, the stage crew also found itself face-toface with unprecedented tasks. Despite a minimal number of sets, a decision was made that the show would be lit not only from the traditional overhead angle, but also unique side angles. This allowed for unique mood lighting that added a great deal to the acting onstage. Another technical challenge was the fact that the bandstand took up too much room onstage. For this reason, the stage crew was faced with the task of extending the stage outwards through the use of wooden platforms. While dancing on homemade stage extensions is every dancer’s nightmare, the stage crew took the concerns of the cast very seriously and built extensions that you could Lindy Hop across all day and never have them budge.

Rehearsals for the cast took place three times per week, including Sunday dance rehearsals that could run for as long as seven hours (if that doesn’t sound exhausting, you’ve never tried swing dancing). Thanks to choreographer Louis Palena, these rehearsals always ran smoothly.

Vocal rehearsals also occurred frequently, as vocal director Mr. Mark Norman was faced with the task of attempting to teach nearly twenty songs to a cast of over fifty students. In the midst of the chaos, costumer Mrs. Robin Kelly managed to fit

In fact, one of the most essential components of swing dancing is having fun. The camaraderie between classes was also essential because of the diversity among the show’s leads. Rather than the typical “seniors-only” cast list, the show also fea-

How To Succeed In Theater CONTINUED Before we knew it, it was opening night. Anybody who has been in a show or on a team can tell you what it is like to debut after months of hard work.

While pre-show nerves are not in short supply, there are certain traditions that help calm the performers. Prior to each show, the cast, band, and crew would form a large circle in the gym, hand in hand, and would pray. Although the prayers are usually led by seniors, underclassmen had no problem with voicing their feelings. “Some of the best moments of my life happened on the La Salle stage.” remarks Gwynedd Mercy Academy junior Annie Fillenwarth. After a brief moment of silence to gather our nerves, we bounded up the stairs leading to backstage to take our places for the opening. After ninety minutes of flailing limbs and classic jazz standards, the cast took their bows in front of a sellout audience. In fact, the cast took

their bows in front of a total of two thousand ecstatic audience members over the course of four shows – attendance numbers that are unprecedented in the history of theater at La Salle.

What is it that made this show such a success?

I believe that many forces came together to create a show that stunned both the audience and the participants. First, the success of the show was rooted in the determination of all involved to create a performance that will never be forgotten.

The cast, crew, and band worked together and supported each other through the many challenges presented by putting on such a demanding show.

Members of the cast would often stay backstage in order to watch others perform. The students cannot take all credit, however, as the production team worked relentlessly to ensure the success of the show. Another important factor was the strength of La Salle’s music program. In many schools, the theater program is limited by the

abilities of the band. This is never a concern for La Salle as the renowned band program has proven itself time and time again. It was an amazing and unique experience to be able to share the stage with the band this year, as it has played a huge part in my La Salle experience. From starting out in Freshman Band to playing lead alto saxophone in the esteemed Competition Band this year, I am proud to be a member of the school’s music program.

Performing in Swing! was an experience I will never forget. It allowed me to see the very best of what La Salle’s music and theater programs have to offer. Although saying goodbye to La Salle will not be easy, I am grateful to have ended on such a high note. I am confident that La Salle’s music and theatre programs will continue to flourish under the direction of everyone involved with the production of the school’s shows.

HISTORY OF MUSICAL THEATER AT LA SALLE COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL 1968 Bye Bye Birdie 1969 Damn Yankees 1970 South Pacific 1971 Hello Dolly!

1972 Anything Goes 1973 How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying 1974 Guys & Dolls 1975 Carousel 1976 110 in the Shade 1977 Mack and Mabel 1978 A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum 1979 Godspell 1980 Pippen 1983 Fiorello!

1984 Lil’ Abner

1985 Guys & Dolls 1986 Two Gentlemen of Verona 1987 Grease 1988 Joseph and the Amazing

Technicolor Dreamcoat 1989 The Mystery of Edwin Drood 1990 George M! 1991 West Side Story 1992 Fame 1993 Pal Joey 1994 Leader of the Pack 1995 Little Shop of Horrors 1996 Godspell 1997 Two Gentlemen of Verona 1998 How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying 1999 Damn Yankees

2000 Guys & Dolls 2001 Joseph and the Amazing

Technicolor Dreamcoat 2002 George M! 2003 Footloose 2004 Grease 2005 Bye Bye Birdie 2006 Godspell 2007 Babes In Arms 2008 Singing in the Rain 2009 How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying 2010 Smokey Joe’s Café 2011 The Drowsy Chaperone 2012 City of Angels 2013 Swing!

Christopher A. Mele ’13

LITTLE KNOWN FACT Chris is a six-year member of the Pep Band having been asked to play while in 7th and 8th grades.

HOME Ambler, PA SCHOOL Saint Alphonsus School ACADEMICS National Honor Society LEADERSHIP Band President, Student Ambassador INSTRUMENT Trombone ACTIVITIES Competition Band, Concert Band, Jazz Band, Lab Band, Pep Band, Pit Orchestra, Theater, History Club, Intramurals, Italian Club SERVICE Summer Service Trip (New Orleans), Thanksgiving Food Drive COLLEGE University of the Arts, Recipient of the University of the Arts’ Director’s Talent Scholarship (Valued at $144,000) Explorer Summer 2013 20

“The four years in the Music Department at La Salle have been the most formative years of my life. With La Salle’s help, I have been able to find myself and have had support in my efforts to succeed. After entering to learn, I am now eager to leave to serve and make my Alma Mater proud.”

by John Tyrrell ’13 La Salle College High School is already known for being one of the most technologically advanced schools in the nation. With Microsoft certification programs, an expert faculty, and first-class facilities, the school has always been ahead of the curve. During the past four years, I have had the opportunity to witness this technology propagate into the music department, and have seen an immense growth of opportunities for current and future students.

This past school year saw one of the more significant changes for the Music Department – a new pilot class called Business-Music and Technology or “BMaT”. I’m always amazed at how quickly La Salle can adapt and improve with the newest technology and the recent changes have come to my favorite part of La Salle – the Music Department.

During my junior year, Mr. Vettori polled the underclassmen of our fourth period band to see if we were interested in a test-class that would combine the creation of music with music production and publishing. The setup for the class would involve having our regularly scheduled class, “R&B Funk and Latin Concepts” which meets three days of the week, and the BMaT course the remaining two. We all felt this was not only a great opportunity to expand our musical knowledge, but also a way to practice how music is produced in the modern and professional world.

The class, under the direction of Mr. Greg Snyder, was broken up into two parts. The first component of this class was an introduction to the hardware and software used throughout the year.

The music lab contains professional equipment and software available for student use, but one of the basic steps most of our group needed to master was using a Mac. Mr. Snyder made sure that we were comfortable using the iMacs available in order to ensure that we would have no trouble later in the year. This involved small and Explorer Summer 2013 21

useful projects like combining a slideshow with personal recordings, or learning the details of the program GarageBand. GarageBand is known to most as just the little guitar icon found on any Mac’s dock, but it is a great introduction to recording and mixing original music. One project Mr. Snyder had us do was take a recording of a saxophone solo, and then mix and match different parts with smooth transitions. The benefit of this was to practice mixing and blending different parts of a song to get the best product possible. In addition, groups completed a project that involved taking instrument loops from the built-in library and creating their own song. We learned that GarageBand is a simple and intuitive program that was an excellent starting point for students involved in BMaT. Students also gained experience with more advanced hardware and software and with equipment like the M-Box, an instrument and microphone interface, or Sibelius, a program designed for composing original music scores. A music interface, or DI-box, such as the M-Box is allows

a musician to take either an electric or acoustic signal and transfer it into a computer program.

We used the program “Pro Tools” in order to create the final product. This was the first year this type of equipment was offered in the music lab, and worked tremendously in the recording process. I was able to plug my guitar directly into the interface in order to record various tracks, but students were also able to use professional-grade microphones to record anything from a trombone to an acoustic bass. The benefit of this technology is that it allows any musician to use professional equipment, and conveniently mix their sound before and during a recording. Once everything was recorded, we had the opportunity to use software such as Sibelius and Pro Tools. Sibelius is a music-writing program that is used in an effort to compose the score for whichever song a group did. A large portion of the class involved learning how to use this program, which is utilized daily by professionals across the globe. When using Sibelius, you are allowed to tailor your piece with specifications like music genre, style, and types of instruments. Mr. Snyder taught us the basics and was able to guide us as we discovered new ways to compose each one of our songs. After using Sibelius, the next step was mixing and mastering each one of our recordings. For this we used the software Pro Tools, another program that is regarded as the industry standard for professionals in music around the world. This program can be compared to how GarageBand works, but goes far more in depth with the editing and mixing process. We were able to easily hone in on the sound of a single instrument and adjust settings like volume levels, reverb, and compression.

Many times throughout the mixing process, groups had to make very slight adjustments in order to get the best sound possible, and with software like Pro Tools, this difficult process becomes relatively simple.

With the knowledge of using advanced software such as Sibelius and Pro Tools, the second portion of the class involved a project. The project was to

work with one other group member in order to produce a “cover” song or original composition to present to the class by the end of the school year. The possibilities for a song were endless and ranged from my group’s cover of The Beatles’ Eleanor Rigby to another group’s cover of the jazz standard Autumn Leaves. Once we chose a song, we had to first compose an original chart of it in Sibelius, so we would have a final copy of our song and read the chart as we recorded. This is especially important for recordings of multiple instruments. The project allowed us to be strict with the recording and chart composition as necessary. Most groups had very straightforward scores that were followed accurately during the recording, but other groups had open sections for soloing and looser restrictions with their chart.

After we cycled in and out of the music lab for designated recording times, we were able to begin the music editing process. Many of us worked in our spare time in order to work out any kinks in our music, and to create the best final result.

In the end, once the score was finalized and the mixing complete, groups burned their songs to individual CD’s and were able to add their own artwork. We all succeeded in creating a studioquality album while also enjoying the entire learning process immensely.

This same professional process can be seen in many other parts of the La Salle music program, such as the recordings of the Competition Band.

Mr. Snyder has used the same software and audio instruments in order to record our Competition Band the past two years. This process involves getting a master recording of the band while also recording separate overdubs of different solos. For instance, Chris Mele, Martin Zefelippo, and I all record our solos at a later date in order to ensure the best sound. It is easy to see how much the recording process has improved over the past four years and I can only see it evolving with time. Just like there is a great future for recordings of the Competition Band, there is an even greater one for the Business Music and Technology course. Next year, students will enroll in a full class that offers the same as this past year, but with even more opportunities. Students will have the chance to record multiple original songs and use the remarkable software available right above our music room. Groups will also be able to collaborate with the art department to have original studentcreated album covers for their final products.

This course is becoming part of the technology offered at La Salle, and will allow students with an interest in a music-based careers to develop their enthusiasm and skills. The music program will no doubt continue to grow and evolve with time, and music technology is becoming a key part of the opportunities offered here at La Salle.

Colin William Weber ’13

LITTLE KNOWN FACT During his junior year, Colin started a company called JazzItUpright, which began with Colin playing bass with electronic drums and piano in the background at local establishments.

Eventually, he connected with a piano player and a drummer and formed a jazz trio that plays at restaurants and clubs throughout the area.

HOME Lansdale, PA SCHOOL Saint Catherine of Siena School ACADEMICS National Honor Society INSTRUMENTS Upright Bass, Electric Bass ACTIVITIES Competition Band, Concert Band, Jazz Band, Lab Band, Pep Band, Pit Orchestra, String Ensemble, Theater, French Club, Italian Club, Intramurals Frisbee, Ultimate, Pit Orchestra at Gwynedd-Mercy Academy COLLEGE Temple University – Esther Boyle College of Music, Recipient of the Temple University Scholarship (Valued at $48,000)

Explorer Summer 2013 22

“La Salle encourages its students to share their gifts with the world and encourages them to expand their horizons. La Salle made this and more possible for me. I will never forget my Alma Mater.”

Hall of Fame Inductee > Jake Whalen ’67

photogallery Communion Breakfast and Hall of Fame Induction March 3, 2013

Alumni Service Award Recipient Jerry O’Neill ’55 and Anne O’Neill Present the Gifts During Mass

Members of the La Salle College High School Hall of Fame

< Members of the Jazz Band Perform During Mass

Brother James Butler, FSC Distributes the Eucharist to Florence Ward and George Hines ’46

Supporting Alumni Service Award Recipient Jerry O’Neill ’55 are Family Members from the O’Neill, Driscoll, and Johnson Families

< The Family of Hall of Fame Inductee Jake Whalen ’67

The Family of Hall of Fame Inductee Brother Richard Kestler, FSC ‘60 Explorer Summer 2013 23

< Members of the Class of the 1968 and their Wives â&#x20AC;&#x201C; John and Maureen Fenningham, Kevin and Eileen Brett, Tony and Kathy Gillespie, John and Francy Kent, and Mike and Elaine Whitaker

Class of 2008

< Class of 2003

Class of 1973

< The Class of 1993 Surrounding the Bench Named in Honor of Their Deceased Classmate and Friend J.P. Fenningham â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;93

Class of 1988 >

photogallery Grand Reunion April 27, 2013 < Class of 1983

Explorer Summer 2013 24

Principal Michael O’Toole ’68 Awards a Golden Diploma to Jim Cake ‘63

Members of the Class of 1963 Gather for Their 50-Year Reunion

photogallery 50-Year Reunion June 1, 2013

Brother James Butler, FSC and Frank Daniel ’63

Brother James Butler, FSC Congratulates Lou Galzerano ‘63

Principal Michael O’Toole ’68 Gets a Laugh from Former Colleague Joe Turk ’63 Explorer Summer 2013 25

photogallery Baccalaureate Mass May 30, 2013 < Mark Collins and Homeroom 6D

Principal Michael O’Toole ’68 Addresses the Class of 2013

< Class of 2013 in Hayman Hall at La Salle University

The Magee Family – Theresa, Jack ’13, Charlie ’11, Matt ’15, and Charles

< Carlos Diaz ’13 Delivers the Baccalaureate Address

Anthony Sticco ‘13 Reads > from the New Testament

Reverend Anthony Janton, AFSC ’69 > Speaks to the Class of 2013

< The May Family – Melanie, Patrick ’13, and Paul Explorer Explorer Summer Summer 2013 2013 26 26

< Brother James Butler, FSC Confers Diplomas to the Class of 2013

Evan Walsh ’13 Delivers the Graduation Address

Proud Explorers – David Givens, Kaherdin Charles, Anthony Di Giovanni, Nate Ezzo, Jack Dusing, and Arthur Bailin

photogallery 150th Commencement Exercises June 1, 2013

Principal Michael O’Toole ’68 Congratulates the > Scholar-Athlete Award Winner Sean Coleman ’13

< Graduation Speaker and Student Council President Andrew Carlone ’13

Principal Michael O’Toole ’68 and Assistant Principal Julia Maher Congratulate Nick Higgins ’13 and His Parents on Receiving the Drew Panettieri ’05 Scholarship Award

Explorer Standouts – Preston > Murray, Andrew Halton, Evan Walsh, Griffin Ripley, and Will Mischler Explorer Summer 2013 27

Golden Explorers (1930’s, 1940’s, and 1950’s) LTC William J. O’Donnell, USAF (Ret.) ’38 plays golf three days a week

and still shoots under his age.

Reflections from the 19th Hole

Michael J. Popkins ’69 was appointed to a judgeship on the San Diego Superior Court by California Governor Jerry Brown. Michael spent his entire legal career as a deputy public defender, with seven years in Los Angeles, and the past twenty eight years in San Diego. Michael, who was sworn in on May 23, 2013, is the first criminal defense attorney appointed to the San Diego County bench in the last thirty years.

1970’s William T. Svihel ’70 has retired after thirty-eight years with LTV, LORAL, and Lockheed Martin. He is now starting a new chapter in his life.

Three of the greatest thrills in the life of Reverend Robert Breen ’45 involve La Salle College High School:

Christopher Kirk ’73 writes that he retired from the Department of the

1 While a student at Holy Child School, it was always my intention to attend La Salle College High School. Meeting on the porch of La Salle College, my father negotiated with Brother Anselm to get a half scholarship, which amounted to $10 per month. I had to work off the rest by working the cafeteria and lining the football field.

What a thrill it was to join the Class of 1945 and use McShain Hall, which was newly built and dedicated.

2 Being able to give back to the Christian Brothers for all they had done for me by serving as their Chaplain from from 1970-75.

3 Entering the Hall of Fame in 1976 with Brother E. Francis and good friend Joe Moran. I had lost my voice all week, but it came back for fifteen minutes at the banquet so I could praise Brother Francis.

Navy as Comptroller, Naval Surface Warfare Center Carderock in 2011 after thirty-four years working for the Navy.

James Turnitsa ’73 is a retired Juvenile Probation Officer now living in

Tucson, AZ. John M. Draganescu, MD, FACP ’75 was recently named Top Doctor

in Gastroenterology in Main Line Today magazine. This award is based on a 10-point scale, factoring in peer endorsements along with experience, education, training, research, publishing, and awards.

1990’s Jamie Barton ’91 recently took over his family’s insurance business

as Principal Agent.

Robert Maro ’48 and his wife, Doris, have been married for sixty years.

Bob continues to go to lunch with the Class of 1948 twice a year.

William Weber ’49 has seven children and eighteen grandchildren and is still working part-time.

Jay Dunphy ’54 and his wife, Marcia, are celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary.

1960’s Louis J. Beccaria ’63 was recently appointed to the Archdiocesan

Chester County Advisory Council on Elementary Education by Auxiliary Bishop John McIntyre and recently became a grandfather to his second grandchild, Ellie Lourdes Beccaria.

David Coffey, DO, FAAO ’64 of Deatsville, AL assumed the office of

President of the American Academy of Osteopathy (AAO) at the President’s Banquet during the annual AAO Convocation held in Orlando, FL in March of 2013 He will serve a one-year term.

Bernard McManus ’68 continues painting and exhibiting in the

Lehigh Valley, Philadelphia’s surrounding counties, and Europe.

Kevin McGeehan ’91, who helped lead the University of Richmond to five post-season berths in the last six years, has been named head men’s basketball coach at Campbell University.

Kenneth Gavin ’97 has been named Director of Communications

for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia.

CLASS NOTES

Explorer Summer 2013 28

Singing Sergeant Performs in Metropolitan Opera Chorus

1LT Travis L. Manion, USMC ’99 was honored on Memorial Day when

President Barak Obama laid a wreath of flowers on his grave at Arlington National Cemetery.

2000’s

Tech. Sgt. Joe Haughton ’98, a tenor with the Singing Sergeants, auditioned last summer for a highly coveted position with the Metropolitan Opera Chorus. This winter, he was invited to sing in the chorus for the Met’s upcoming performance of Parsifal

by Richard Wagner.

Haughton, originally from Lansdale, PA, received a Bachelor’s degree in Vocal Music Performance from Carnegie Mellon University. He has been a member of the Singing Sergeants since 2005, and deployed with the Irish music ensemble, Celtic Aire, in 2010. It has taken careful coordination to attend Met rehearsals in New York City and Singing Sergeants rehearsals in Washington DC, but Haughton says “It’s completely worth it!”

“This is such a great experience, and it’s an honor to share the stage with opera greats like Jonas Kaufmann and Katarina Dalayman.” Along with

Joe Spause ’00 and his father Joe Spause ’69 recently completed

famous opera singers, Haughton is joined by tenors Matt Smith and Nathan

the Walt Disney World Marathon in Orlando, FL.

Carlisle, both formerly of the Singing Sergeants.

Gary E. Kane, Jr. ’01 married Rachel Rode on November 17, 2012

in West Orange, NJ. James J. Devery, III, PhD, ’02 earned his doctoral degree in organic

chemistry from Lehigh University this year. His dissertation was “The Development and Optimization of Cerium (IV)-Mediated Single Electron Oxidative Coupling Reactions.” He is now pursuing a post-doctoral fellowship at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, MI.

Explorer Summer 2013 29

Healthy Eating

Fresh off of an expansion inside the Horsham Athletic Club, Bryn Davis ’03, founder of the Horsham-based Bryn and Dane’s healthy fast-food restaurant, is now working on opening a Plymouth Meeting location.

The new 2,500-square-foot location in Plymouth Meeting is expected to open by October, Davis said, and will continue the brand’s mission of “Local, Lo Cal”, serving smoothies, wraps, salads, popcorn, and much more.

The Plymouth Meeting location will be the largest Bryn and Dane’s to date – an open-air restaurant with corporate headquarters housed in “loft offices” suspended over the seating area.

“When you are eating in the restaurant, you will be able to look up and see us working on our next project!” said Davis.

Alex Himes ’04 got to meet with Mitt Romney prior to the

Davis anticipates hiring forty people for the Plymouth Meeting location alone, as well as more staff for the main Horsham location on Privet Road, and the Kitchen and Cafe on Horsham Road. “I want to stockpile great people,” Davis said.

ENS Mathew D. Carmody, USN ’09 graduated from the United States Naval

With the newest location on the horizon, the ever-entrepreneurial Davis said a possibility of a “partnership” could help to make Bryn and Dane’s a household name in more communities. Davis said three to four additional locations could crop up within the next year.

CLASS NOTES

Presidential Debate.

Academy in Annapolis, MD on May 24, 2013 and was commissioned as an Officer in the U.S. Navy. Following graduation, ENS Carmody has been assigned to the Civil Engineering Corps Officer School where he will continue training in Engineering. He will be based in Port Hueneme, CA and will begin service with Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 4.

Erik Cwik ’09 graduated from Arcadia University in May. He was on the

Dean’s List as well as a member of Sigma Tau Delta, Phi Kappa Phi, and Phi Beta Delta. He has also won the Doris Fenton Award for English Literature, Who’s Who in America, and the Arcadia Leadership Award.

He will be attending Boston College for post-graduate studies.

2010’s Christian Bruno ’12 is a freshman at the University of South Carolina

studying International Business and is playing club baseball for the Division I Gamecocks as the starting catcher and leading hitter.

Explorer Summer 2013 30

HALLInduction OF ATHLETICS Ceremony Friday, October 4, 2013 7:00 pm Auditorium COACHES

TEAMS

ATHLETES

Joseph J. Colistra, Jr. ’64

1993 Soccer Team

Thomas P. Donnelly ’65

• Won the first Philadelphia Catholic League Soccer Championship in school history

• All-American Distance Runner

• Head Football Coach for twenty-one years (1985-2005) • Career Record of 153-86-2 • Winningest Football Coach in school history • Won Four Philadelphia Catholic League Championships • One of eleven coaches in the history of Philadelphia High School Football to win 150 games

Pat Devine • Led the Cross Country and Track and Field Programs for thirty-nine years • Coached for 117 seasons (three seasons per year) • Won fifteen Philadelphia Catholic League Championships (9 – Cross Country, 6 – Track and Field) • Won ten Independent School State Championships • Named Penn Relays High School Coach-Of-The-Year in 2001

• Team included fourteen NCAA Division One Players, three professional soccer players, and two All-Americans • Ended the soccer dynasty of Archbishop Ryan and “put La Salle Soccer on the map” • Ranked No. 1 in Pennsylvania and in the Top 20 Nationally

1996 Football Team • Won the Philadelphia Catholic League Championship with an undefeated season • Only Football Team in the history of Philadelphia High School Athletics to win fourteen games • One of the three teams from 1995-97 that compiled a 32-game winning streak • Ranked No. 1 in Pennsylvania and in the Top 20 Nationally

• Won a record three consecutive Philadelphia Catholic League Cross Country Championships • Never lost a high school race after his freshman year • Broke numerous school records in the mile and two mile runs • Set the course record at historic Van Cortland Park in New York and won the prestigious Eastern States Championship • Most accomplished runner in school history

Brett A. Gordon ’98 • Three Sport Athlete and Starter – Football, Basketball, and Golf • All-Catholic Selection – Football and Golf • Two-Time Philadelphia Catholic League MVP in Football • Maxwell Award Recipient • Three-Year Starting Quarterback who lead the 1996 Team to an undefeated season • Held the Pennsylvania State Record for Career Passing Yards

Explorer Summer 2013 31

Thomas G. Gizzi ’85 • Three Sport Athlete and Starter – Football, Basketball, and Baseball • All-Catholic Selection – Football, Basketball, and Baseball • Philadelphia Catholic League MVP in Football • Maxwell Award Recipient • Named Athlete-Of-The-Year – Philadelphia Inquirer and Montgomery Record • Recipient of the Brian Piccolo Award and the Honorable William Dannehower Award

Roger J. Harrington ’92 • Three Sport Athlete and Starter – Soccer, Basketball, and Baseball • All-Catholic Selection – Soccer, Basketball, and Baseball • Philadelphia Catholic League MVP in Baseball • Member of Three Carpenter Cup Baseball Teams • Broke the school record for career goals in soccer • Scholar Athlete for the Class of 1992

welcome

remember

We

We

Jerry Hartey ’93 and his wife, Renee, welcomed a girl, Vivian Grace, on February 15, 2013.

James D. Barry ’41

Jonathan Dager ’94 and his wife,

John J. Callan ’46, brother of

Carrie, welcomed a daughter, Elizabeth Rose, on March 3, 2013.

Peter Madden ’95 and his wife,

(as of June 6, 2013)

Reverend Monsignor Thomas J. Birch ’50

Joseph ’43.

James Cannon, Jr. ’43 James L. Connor ’62, brother of

Elizabeth Abbott, mother of Joseph ’70 and Robert ’71; grandmother of Michael ’98, Kevin ’03, Patrick ’04, Colin ’06, Sean ’09, and Ryan ’11.

Henry “Butch” Acchione,

brother-in-law of Bob McAnespey ’66.

Ann Armento, mother of David ’76

and Donald ’74.

Ashley, welcomed a son, Carter, in March of 2013.

Gerald ’73.

John E. Durichek ’56

Nicholas Master ’13

Brian McGeehan ’95 and his wife,

C. Clark Hodgson ’57, father of

Anna T. Beccaria, mother of Louis ’63.

Annie, welcomed a son, Andrew, on April 6, 2013.

C. Clark III ’06; brother of the late Honorable Richard ’66 and Stephen ’64.

P.J. Quinn ’95 and his wife,

Vincent Kennedy ’88

Megan, welcomed a son, Nolan Paul, on May 29, 2013.

Marc Alfarano ’98 and his wife,

Laura, welcomed a son, Antonio, on October 31, 2012.

Tim Ponisciak ’99 and his wife,

Erin, welcomed a son, Finn Michael, on December 12, 2012.

Joe Spause ’00 and his wife, Tracey, welcomed a son, Luke Thomas, on May 8, 2013.

Joe Sobocinski ’05 and his wife,

Jenna, welcomed their first child, Avalyn Theresa, on May 25, 2012.

Wally Muehlbronner and his wife,

Michelle, welcomed a son, Walter, on October 13, 2012.

We

Patrick Joseph (P.J.) Lawn ’12

Paulette Basicano, grandmother of

Maureen Bodo, wife of Charles ’65.

Charles J. Bofinger, father of

Charles ’71.

Patrick Breslin, father of Joseph ’79,

John R. Fisher, father of Thomas ’78;

grandfather of John’98.

Agnes Harkness, mother- in-law of

William C. Regli III, PhD ’85

Joseph F. Hennessey, MD, grandfather

of Joseph III ’06.

Michael A. Krulikowski, father of

Thomas ’09 and Matthew ’13; son-in-law of Robert McMackin ’45.

Edna Marble, mother of David ’79; grandmother of William ’11, Kevin ’12, and Christian ’15.

Joseph T. McFadden, grandfather of

Michael Colibraro ’02 and Joseph R. Aloia, Jr. ’09.

Peter ’73, Daniel ’76 and Kirk ’88; grandfather of Daniel ’05.

Rita Camardo, mother of Joseph ’70.

Alice O’Neill, mother of Frank ’76 and Christopher ’80; grandmother of Kevin ’07.

Brother Thomas McPhillips, FSC, PhD ’67

and Mark ’79.

Benjamin F. Cake, father of James ’63

Joan B. Patrone, wife of Former Trustee

Kathleen Casey, mother of Rita Cooney;

Elizabeth Mae Pollock, grandmother

Pierre Marcolina ’48, father of

Edward J. Nolen ’50, brother of

Raymond Nolen ’43.

Donald A. Rae ’50

Thomas F. Smyth, Sr. ’41

Christopher ’85, and Martin ’90.

grandmother of Gresham Cooney ’06.

of Ryan ’02.

Helen M. Cassidy, wife of Francis ’45;

Thaddeus J. Przybylowski, father of Thaddeus ’73 and Timothy ’78; grandfather of Nicholas ’01.

grandmother of Francis ’08 and John ’10.

Frank R. Solis ’42

Joseph H. Conlin, father of Craig ’85, Keith ’91, and Kevin ’93.

Raymond Tatlow, Jr. ’38, father of

Mary Dorley, sister of

Leonard M. Whalen ’42

Louise Dwyer, sister-in-law

Raymond ’69, James ’71, and Paul ’74; grandfather of Kevin ’03, and Connor ’06.

Edward Patrone; mother of Brian ’87.

Reverend Edmond Speitel ’43 and Gerald Speitel ’48

Barbara Paul Ryan, sister of Joseph Paul ’76 and Thomas Paul ’78; sister of Former Trustee John Paul; sisterin-law of Former Trustee Judith Paul.

Dorothy Sellers, wife of Walter ’52.

of James ’53.

Rudolph E. Stanek, father of Brent ’90.

Brother Patrick Ellis, FSC

Joseph Wisdo, father of Cole ’11.

honor

President’s Medal Presented to the Class of 1958

By Christopher M. Carabello ’82

The President’s Medal, which is presented annually to an individual or individuals who have demonstrated exemplary service to La Salle College High School and who have been a shining example for the entire school community, was awarded to the Class of 1958 during a special luncheon held in the school auditorium on March 25, 2013. Brother James L. Butler, FSC, President of La Salle College High School felt strongly that “their unity as a class made the distinction singularly appropriate.”

A great deal could be said about the Class of 1958. In the 50+ years since their graduation, they have demonstrated dedication to La Salle College High School in ways too varied to enumerate: through their service to their Alma Mater and fraternal devotion to each other, in their mutual support of the school and each other in good and bad times, by their sacrificial generosity to building campaigns and tuition support for needy students, through the unflagging interest that they take in the academic, musical, and athletic success of current students, and through the life-long faithfulness that they have demonstrated to the ideals and values of the Christian Brothers. A stranger spending just a short time with the Class of 1958 would quickly understand what being a Brothers’ Boy and a Christian gentleman is all about.

At the luncheon, members of the Class of 1958 were joined at their tables by leaders of the Class of 2013. Football players from the 1957 Football Team were able to share stories with current members of the football team who likewise captured Philadelphia Catholic League and City titles. Basketball players sat with basketball players and musicians ate with musicians. The camaraderie transcended the generations. According to Brother James Butler, FSC, the goal was to show the current graduation class “how a model class of alumni such as the Class of 1958 keeps that connection alive throughout their lives and how it is indeed possible to be classmates for four years, but leaders and brothers for life.”

Homecoming â&#x20AC;Śthe tradition continues.

Friday, October 4, 2013

Saturday, October 5, 2013

Hall of Athletics Induction 7:00 pm

Varsity Soccer vs.

Bayard Rustin High School

Varsity Football vs.

Father Judge High School

The Auditorium

12:00 pm

3:30 pm

Glaser Field

Springfield High School Stadium

Watch the Defending Catholic League Champions

Watch the Defending Catholic League

battle a state powerhouse from West Chester.

Champions tackle a league rival.

Halftime Ceremony Recognition of the athletes, coaches, and teams

Family BBQ

inducted into the La Salle College High School Hall of Athletics

1:00 to 3:30 pm New Athletic Fields

$20 per person Free for Children 12 and Under Price includes BBQ, Beverages, and a Ticket to the Football Game Park at Springfield High School and Walk Across Paper Mill Road to the New Fields RSVP by Friday, September 27, 2013 Register online at www.lschs.org or call (215) 233-2350

E X PLORE R

Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Lansdale, PA Permit No. 93

The Official Magazine of La Salle College High School

La Salle College High School 8605 Cheltenham Avenue Wyndmoor, PA 19038 Change Service Requested

Â

S AT U R DAY N I G H T L I V E

AUCTIONSaturday, November 2, 2013

For information or to help, visit www.lschs.org/auction Explorer Summer 2013 34