Explorer Magazine - Summer 2011

summer 2011

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

E X PLORE R

The Official Magazine of La Salle College High School

FRONT COVER Seven members of the Class of 2011 (left to right) – Nick Frazzette, Pat Kerr, Eric Stone, Brennan Woods, Brendan Stone, Jamison Kenney, and Kevin Gillespie – standing on the balcony outside of the Art Studio.

PICTURED INSIDE The painted floor of the balcony outside of the Art Studio, which is located on the top floor of Saint Michael Hall. The artwork and design was completed

by Rick Chiodo ’08, as his final project in Art Portfolio. Rick’s inspiration was from the tradition of Mandala painting and his design required a five-color arrangement. Prep for the project involved power washing the entire surface, creating a design to scale, and layout with a rope and charcoal blocks.

Rick then spent about a week laying in the design with pigmented stains.

Features Features

Gentle Giant Page 9

Bleeding Blue And Gold Page 11

Curtain Call Page 14

summer 2011

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inside

The Official Magazine of La Salle College High School

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Stories

Highlights

Changing Direction

Snapshots

From The Hip

City Kid

Class of 2011

Letter From The President

Problem Solver

Photo Gallery

Class Notes

Page 13 Page 18 Page 19

Rolling Stone Page 20

Pages 4-8

Pages 16-17 Pages 21-25

Departments

The Official Magazine of La Salle College High School

Page 2 Page 3

Pages 26-31

E X PLORE R Births, Deaths, and Honorees Page 32

The Official Magazine of La Salle College High School

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From The Hip

summer 2011

E X PLORE R

The Official Magazine of La Salle College High School

La Salle means different things to the various members of our community. Our students learn responsibility in an environment that fosters mutual respect amongst its students and teachers. For parents, La Salle is a safe and caring community, where their sons develop intellectually, spiritually, socially, and physically. To our faculty and staff, it is a place where they can dedicate themselves to teaching, service, and promoting learning as a lifelong endeavor. For over 15,000 alumni, La Salle College High School is a place filled with memories, experiences, and opportunities – a second home that continues to flourish and grow.

President Brother Richard Kestler, FSC ‘60 Principal Joseph L. Marchese Vice President of Institutional Advancement Daniel L. McGowan Publisher Christopher M. Carabello ’82

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Many alums are fortunate to return to their Alma Mater as members of the faculty or administration. We are mentors as well as educators to a group of young men who work harmoniously in first-class facilities and programs that successfully balance academics, athletics, the arts, and community service. For us, La Salle is both a ministry and a community. Inspired by the tradition of our Founder, Saint John Baptist de La Salle, we are part of a devoted and skilled group of Christian Brothers and lay educators who help to develop each boy to his fullest potential. Regardless of our class year or background, we remain dedicated to a mission and an institution that is deeply rooted in each of us.

One such individual is Brother James Rieck, FSC, who graduated from La Salle College High School in 1957, and quickly began what has become a lifetime commitment to the Brothers of the Christian Schools and Catholic education. Brother James first returned to La Salle as an administrator in the early 1980’s, and after several years as Principal of Archbishop John Carroll High School, returned again in 1993 as Director of Admissions, a position that he served until his retirement last month. During that eighteen year period, enrollment has flourished and Brother James has taken personal responsibility for shaping classes that have developed leaders in and out of the classroom.

Editor Kevin P. Gillespie ’11

The Official Magazine of La Salle College High School

Contributing Writers Christopher M. Carabello ’82 Nicholas J. Frazzette ’11 Kevin P. Gillespie ’11 Jamison P. Kenney ’11 Patrick C. Kerr ’11 Brendan P. Stone ’11 Eric B. Stone ’11 Brennan R. Woods ’11

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In 1995, Brother James met and subsequently admitted a set of twins from Chestnut Hill – Chris and Kevin Dougherty. The two brothers grew as students, athletes, and leaders. They took different career paths as Chris pursued the world of finance, while Kevin focused on the education of today’s youth. In December, Kevin Dougherty ’00 was chosen to succeed Brother James Rieck, FSC as the new Director of Admissions and Financial Aid. In doing so, he joins four fellow members of the Class of 2000 who likewise returned to serve their Alma Mater – Paul Colistra, Tom Devlin, Brett Foley, and Ray Shay. I am certain that Brother James never gave any thought in the fall of 1995 that any of those boys would one day become his colleague, not to mention his successor.

Nevertheless, it was one of his many decisions that seems to be paying dividends.

Today, La Salle College High School is fortunate to have forty alums who have “returned home” to make a difference at a place that means so very much. We are joined by a countless number of trustees, coaches, and volunteers – all of whom are committed to using our own Lasallian experience to develop young men and help prepare them for a life dedicated to leadership, achievement, and service.

Editorial and Production Assistance Barbara Franks The Official Magazine of La Salle College High School Cathleen P. Winning Photography Greg Bobowski Braden Bonner John J. Burns Christopher M. Carabello ’82 Sam Fritch Herff Jones Photography Mike Maicher Brother James Rieck, FSC ’57 Regina Sacco Artwork and Design John Burns Graphic Design

Address Explorer La Salle College High School 8605 Cheltenham Avenue Wyndmoor, PA 19038 215 233 2350 phone 215 836 4502 fax alumni@lschs.org www.lschs.org

Christopher M. Carabello ’82 Publisher

The Explorer is published quarterly by La Salle College High School. The Explorer welcomes letters to the Editor concerning alumni, school, and topics covered by and in the magazine. The Editor of the Explorer reserves the right to make all decisions regarding the content and information published in the magazine.

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Letter From The President 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.

Dear Fellow Alums and Friends, Graduation at La Salle College High School was held on Saturday, June 4, with 246 Seniors receiving their diplomas.

Joining them at graduation were over thirty members of the Class of 1961, who were celebrating their 50th Reunion.

The Class of 2011 includes fifty “legacy” students – young men whose fathers and/or grandfathers attended La Salle College High School. This year’s Senior Class has earned in excess of $25 million in scholarships and grants, has 17 National Merit Recognized Students, and 84 members of the National Honor Society. In addition, the Class amassed 27 Catholic League Championships, 17 District XXII (City) Championships, and five State Championships during its four years. 99% of the Class will be attending 84 colleges and universities in 20 different states.

Our Explorers won four Philadelphia Catholic League Championships and five District 12 (City) Championships. In addition, our Hockey team won the Flyer’s Cup. However, the dominance was not by any means limited to athletics. La Salle’s Speech and Debate Team won the Pennsylvania High School Speech League (PHSSL) District 11 Team Championship and qualified fourteen students to the PHSSL State Finals and ten students to the National Catholic Forensics League (NCFL) Grand National Speech and Debate Finals. In addition, two La Salle Jazz Bands were given Superior ratings and were ranked in the top ten at the finals of the Tri-State area Jazz Band competition – La Salle is the only school to have achieved the award. I am so proud that we have over 200 students volunteering this summer in nine different service programs located in Pennsylvania, Kentucky, Arizona, Montana, Louisiana and Bolivia. This service is completely voluntary as La Salle College High School does not have mandatory service hours.

After eighteen years, Brother James Rieck, FSC ‘57 will step down from his role as Director of Admissions. We have been blessed by his leadership and his commitment to the school’s mission. Brother James is not retiring and will take on a new position as our Lasallian Animator. He will stay involved in our Kairos Retreat Program and continue in his role as “Brother Kodak”. Kevin B. Dougherty ‘00 will be our new Director of Admissions and Financial Aid and will join four fellow members of the Class of 2000 who are currently on staff at their Alma Mater.

We are in our final push to reach our $25 million goal for Fulfilling the Promise. Our capital campaign has raised almost $23.5 million from just over 860 donors. As with all things “it takes a village”, so we need your help. I appeal to those of you who have not yet supported this Campaign to reconsider doing so as soon as possible. Remember your donation is tax deductible and can be pledged over a period of time. If you need any additional information on making a donation, please contact Mr. Daniel McGowan, Vice President of Institutional Advancement at (215) 4024809 or mcgowand@lschs.org On behalf of the administration, faculty, staff, and students I would like to thank everyone who volunteered so much of their time and energy in continuing to move La Salle College High School to its highest potential. Particularly, I would like to thank Mr. Benjamin Ventresca ’70 and our Board of Trustees, Dr. Michael Donohoe ’79 and the Alumni Association, Mrs. Susan Gillespie and the Mothers’ Club, and Mr. John Toner ’82 and the Men of La Salle. I also wish to thank everyone who responded so generously to the 2010-2011 Annual Fund Appeal, which enables La Salle to achieve its mission to assist deserving young men seeking a La Salle education.

Thank you and God Bless You!

Brother Richard Kestler, FSC ’60 President

Brother Richard Kestler, FSC ’60 Congratulates Ian M. Bush ’11

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snap shots

Wrestling

Hockey

On February 2, 2011, the Wrestling Team captured its third consecutive Philadelphia Catholic League Team Championship with a 53-20 win over Monsignor Bonner. Two nights later, the team won its third consecutive PIAA District 12 (City) Championship with a 55-14 win over Edison High School. Despite a second round loss in the Pennsylvania State Tournament, the team sent a school-record six wrestlers to the PIAA State Individual Tournament in Hershey, PA – Joe Mazzi ’11 (130), Matt Cimato ‘12 (140), Casey Kent ‘12 (145), Shane Springer ‘12 (160), Nick Burns ‘11 (171), and Ryan Geiger ‘11 (285).

On March 7, 2011, the Hockey Team won the Flyer’s Cup in dramatic fashion with a 3-2 overtime win against Malvern Prep at the Wells Fargo Center. Sophomore Nick Master scored the winning goal and freshman goalie Nick DeSimone stopped 23 of 25 shots in helping La Salle capture their fifth Flyer’s Cup. On March 26, 2011, the Explorers were not as lucky in overtime as they were defeated in the State Championship game by Upper Saint Clair High School, the Penguin Cup Champions from Western Pennsylvania.

Scholarship Recipients La Salle College High School recognized twenty-six scholarship winners from the Class of 2015 on January 13, 2011. The evening highlighted the academic achievements of these 8th grade students, and provided them and their parents with the opportunity to find out more about the programs and activities open to students at La Salle. The guests that evening were addressed by Dominic Mirabile ‘11 and alumnus Rhoads Worster ’10, a freshman at the University of Pennsylvania. The recipients and their parents were hosted at their table by a current student along with a member of the faculty/staff.

Basketball The Basketball Team capped off back-to-back 20-win seasons for the first time since the early 1980’s. The team finished with a record of 20-6 and reached the Elite Eight of the PIAA State Tournament before losing to the eventual champion, Chester High School. The team was lead by All-Catholics Eddie Mitchell ’11, Joe Brown ’11, and Amar Stukes ’13.

Eddie Mitchell, who is bound for Rider University, will become the school’s first Division One basketball player in almost two decades.

Speech and Debate On February 26, 2011, La Salle College High School won the Pennsylvania High School Speech League (PHSSL) District 11 Team Championship with 85 sweepstakes points, finishing ahead of Saint Joseph’s Prep and Gwynedd Mercy Academy. Seventeen students qualified to compete at the State Finals. The team of juniors Bill Toner and Frank Worthington went 4-0 in Public Forum Debate, qualified to the State Finals, and were named District 11 Champions. Sophomore Rob Gormisky also went 4-0 at the PHSSL District 11 Tournament and qualified to compete for the State Championship in Lincoln-Douglas Debate.

Chorus On May 17, 2011, more than fifty La Salle students performed in the Spring Choral Concert as part of the 27th Annual Arts Festival. Conducted by Mr. Mark Norman, three choral groups performed – the Upperclassmen Chorus, the Freshmen Chorus, and the Belcrofters (La Salle’s Advanced Choral Group).

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National Honor Society Induction

Sophomore Branch-Out Day

The La Salle College High School chapter of the National Honor Society held its annual Liturgy and Induction Ceremony on March 15, 2011. Over one hundred new members from the junior and senior classes were inducted into the society. Reverend Anthony Janton, AFSC ’69 presided at the Mass and personal reflections on the characteristics of scholarship, service, leadership, and character were presented by senior officers Seamus Mooney, Christopher Dearolf, Kevin Gillespie, and Nick Frazzette. Ms. Tina Shustak and Mrs. Dorothy Marchese, moderators of La Salle’s chapter, welcomed the new members.

On March 30, 2011, La Salle marked its 9th Annual Fran Johnson Sophomore Branch-Out Day. The day is named in honor of long time La Salle teacher Fran Johnson who passed away from cancer in 2003. In his honor, all 280 sophomores along with their fathers and several faculty members, traveled to sixteen different community service sites in the Philadelphia Area. The day concluded with both the sophomores and their fathers participating in discussions about the day as well as the integral part community service has within the Lasallian mission.

The Drowsy Chaperone

Taste of the Big Apple

The La Salle College High School Theater Program presented four sold-out performances of The Drowsy Chaperone from March 24-27, 2011. Featuring the talents of over one hundred La Salle students and young ladies from four area high schools, The Drowsy Chaperone left audiences laughing and humming its tunes long after the curtain went down. Senior Eric Stone played the lead male role, while seniors Cole Wisdo, Kendall Chaney, and Dutch Markward along with juniors Tim Fickenscher, Matt Volpe, Jack Fillenworth, and Anthony Buonomo had large supporting roles.

On March 21, 2011, thirty-two juniors and six faculty members converged on New York City to meet with alumni, and gain valuable insight into a variety of career paths. The day began at the New York Public Theater, where the students met with alumni who spoke about their various career and educational paths. The primary focus of the trip was to acquaint students with the wide range of opportunities offered by New York’s renowned universities, businesses, and institutions. The trip featured visits to the U.S. District Court, New York Stock Exchange, NBC Studios, ABC News, Madison Square Garden, and Saint Patrick’s Cathedral.

Poor Man’s Supper The Art Department and the Office of Campus Ministry sponsored the Poor Man’s Supper on March 30, 2011 in the cafeteria. Alex Hicks ’11 lead the organization of the event, where attendees chose a beautiful handcrafted bowl created by students, clubs, faculty, and staff members. Reverend Anthony Janton, AFSC ‘69 gave a blessing as the bowls were filled with soup accompanied by bread, drinks, dessert, and companionship. The evening and the keepsake bowls served as a reminder of the many less fortunate people in our area suffering from hunger. All proceeds from the event were donated to Face to Face in Germantown.

Swimming The Swimming Team won its 23rd consecutive Philadelphia Catholic League Championship on February 6, 2011 at Widener University. Two weeks later, the team was crowned PIAA District 12 (City) Champions for the third consecutive year. The team traveled to Bucknell University on March 19, 2011, where they finished second in the Pennsylvania State Championships. The Medley Relay Team of Joe Maginnis ‘13, David Speese ‘11, Luke Maguire ‘12, and Eric Schultz ‘12 finished first and set a new State record. David Speese ‘11 won the 100 Breaststroke and became the school’s first individual State Champion.

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snap shotscontinued

Fran Johnson Field Day

Dinner Dance

The 7th Annual Fran Johnson Field Day was held on April 27, 2011. This year’s Field Day 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 trivia challenge, and dodge ball. The winning homerooms were 2A (freshmen), 10B (sophomores), 8C (juniors), and 8D (seniors).

On Saturday, February 12, 2011, the La Salle College High School Community came together for a Dinner Dance to raise money for financial aid. The event was held at the Normandy Farms Hotel and Conference Center and over 250 alumni, trustees, faculty, staff, and Christian Brothers enjoyed cocktails, a New Orleans themed dinner, and dancing. Brother Richard Kestler, FSC ’60 kicked off the evening with a toast and a special thanks to The Hansen Family and the Hansen Charitable Foundation who underwrote 100% of the cost of the event, which allowed almost $50,000 in proceeds to directly support financial aid.

Blood Drive

Explorers of the Caribbean

With this year’s record snowfalls around the country, blood supply is the lowest in a decade with a shortage of 28,000 units and climbing daily. La Salle College High School, along with the American Red Cross, hosted a Blood Drive on February 11, 2011 in the auditorium. Members of the La Salle community donated 117 pints of blood surpassing last year’s total of 105 pints. The blood donated by the La Salle community benefited nearly 350 people.

Three seniors – Sam Hyder, Charlie Cannon, and Seamus Mooney – participated in a Healthcare Mission in the Puerto Plata Area of the Dominican Republic, where they worked with doctors, nurses, and other medical practitioners as part of a mission sponsored by the Episcopal Diocese of Quincy, IL. They were accompanied by Fran Diccicco, the Chairperson of the school’s World Language Department. Senora Diccicco and the three boys were each paired with a doctor or other adult volunteer and translated for them. They also helped to load and unload much needed supplies. Their knowledge of the Spanish language and translation skills proved to be very valuable.

Father/Son Golf Outing The Men of La Salle sponsored the annual La Salle Father/Son Golf Outing on May 15, 2011 at Horsham Valley Golf Club. Three teams finished with a score of 64 and, after matching cards, Bill and Will Rate ’11 finished in first place in the Scramble Best Ball event.

Mother/Son Communion Brunch On February 27, 2011, mothers and their sons gathered together for the annual Mother/ Son Communion Brunch at Williamson’s Restaurant in Horsham, PA. The event began with Mass celebrated by Reverend Anthony Janton, AFSC ’69 and was followed by brunch.

In addition to a wonderful meal, all who attended listened to Neil Hartman, a Comcast SportsNet anchor and reporter, who spoke to the audience about sports, broadcasting, and a variety of other subjects.

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AP Exams

Tennis

In May of 2011, 258 students took a total of 567 Advanced Placement Exams in nineteen different subject areas. Last year, La Salle College High School had a record 102 AP Scholars (students who scored 3 or higher in three or more different AP Exams) and thirteen National Scholars (score of 4 or better on eight or more different AP exams).

The Tennis Team won the Philadelphia Mayor’s Cup on March 13, 2011 at the Arthur Ashe Tennis Center in the East Falls section of Philadelphia. This year was the inaugural year for the tournament, which featured seven teams from Catholic League and other area independent schools. The Tennis Team captured the Philadelphia Catholic League Championship on May 3, 2011 by defeating Saint Joseph’s Prep by a score of 5-0 to win their fifth consecutive title. They went on to defeat Central High School to win the PIAA District 12 (City) Championship and lost their only match of the year in the first round of the State Tournament.

Arts Festival As part of the 28th Annual Arts Festival, the Art Department exhibited over 400 pieces of student artwork throughout the school on May 16, 2011. 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 three judges and awards were given to pieces that displayed excellence.

Students from ten different courses received Awards of Excellence for a piece of artwork they produced in class. Six additional students received a “Body of Work” Award, which recognizes the quality and quantity of work a student has produced.

Band The Competition and Lab Bands were both honored at the Cavalcade of Bands Jazz Championship on April 9, 2011. The Competition Band received a rating of “Superior with Honors” under the direction of Mr. Joseph Vettori, Director of Music. The Lab Band received a rating of “Superior” under the direction of Mr. Dennis Wasko, the school’s Trumpet Instructor. La Salle was the only school to have two different bands receive “Superior” ratings. The Competition Band was also honored as the “Best Trumpet” section, while Nick Owsik ‘12 was recognized as the “Best Soloist”. Another highlight of the evening was Joe Vettori being recognized as Music Director of the Year, which was voted upon music directors from more than one hundred schools in the tri-state area.

1stLT Travis Manion Memorial Game The Lacrosse Team received a tour of the U.S. Naval Academy courtesy of La Salle alums 1st LT John O’Hara, USN ‘99 and current U.S. Naval Academy midshipman Mike Haas ‘06.

The tour was a part of a memorable day in Annapolis, as the Explorers defeated DeMatha Catholic High School 9-4 at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium in the inaugural Travis Manion-Brendan Looney Memorial Lacrosse Game. The game, which benefited the Travis Manion Foundation, was played to honor the memories and contributions of 1st LT Travis Manion, USMC ’99 and his close friend LT (SEAL) Brendan Looney, a DeMatha graduate, who both died while serving their country in Iraq.

Golden Jubilee Brother Richard Kestler, FSC ’60 was honored on April 2, 2011 on the occasion of his 50th Anniversary as a Christian Brother. Brother Richard joined the Brothers of the Christian Schools upon his graduation from La Salle College High School in 1960. He has served in a variety of capacities including Principal and President of West Catholic High School, Principal and President of Archbishop John Carroll High School, President of La Salle College High School, Administrator of Saint Gabriel’s Hall, and Visitor/Provincial of the Baltimore District of the Christian Brothers. A Mass and reception were held in his honor and attended by his family, friends, and colleagues.

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Mother/Son Service Project

Microsoft Certified Professionals

The Mothers’ Club partnered with Mr. Chuck Cirelli on a service project for mothers and their sons to make sandwiches for the homeless and poor served by Saint Francis Inn. The mothers and sons met on Sundays before the first Monday of the month to prepare the bagged meals. The sandwiches are then delivered to Saint Francis Inn, an inner-city soup kitchen in Philadelphia.

La Salle’s Chief Information Officer, Peter Sigmund ’85, and his staff of twenty-five Student Lab Managers support a network of 35 servers, 135 laptops, 185 desktops, and 1,400 users. In addition to being the only Level One Microsoft IT Academy in the State of Pennsylvania, the Lab Manager Program featured eight students earning certifications as Microsoft Certified Professionals. Four were Microsoft Certified Technical Specialists and two were Microsoft Certified Associates.

WEXP La Salle continued to offer and expand WEXP – a completely digital TV studio in the basement of Saint Michael Hall. Every morning, students of the WEXP Multimedia Manager Program produce a live homeroom show that offers the days announcements, provides video highlights of school events, and provides a forum for interviews with members of the school community. Three classes work directly with WEXP to produce content for the morning show and the school’s website.

Talent Fest La Salle College High School hosted a “Talent Fest” on April 3, 2011 to benefit “For Pete’s Sake”, a Cancer Respite Foundation in honor of Peter Bossow, Jr. ‘86. The event, which was organized by Dom Mirabile ‘11 and the Lasallian Service Corps Team, was sold out and raised more than $3,000 for the charity. Over twenty students and members of the faculty/staff displayed their talents to a packed house, which included the parents of Peter Bossow. Marci Schankweiler, founder of the organization, talked during the intermission about Pete’s dreams and how one of those dreams became a reality in “For Pete’s Sake”.

Josh Shipp La Salle College High School hosted Josh Shipp on February 17, 2011 in the auditorium.

The presentation, entitled “The Five Mistakes Almost Every Grown-Up Makes With Teenagers”, was presented to the students during the day and to parents that evening.

Josh Shipp is the host of the television show Jump Shipp, author of “The Teen’s Guide to World Domination”, and was listed on INC Magazine’s 30 Under 30 List. He has established an international reputation as a teen communication expert who can get through to any teen. He’s spoken to over 1.5 million teenagers live and is a recognized teen expert for such media outlets as MTV, CNN, and FOX.

Senior Prom On May 13, 2011, over two hundred sharply dressed La Salle seniors accompanied by their beautiful dates attended the Senior Prom. The night was filled with dancing, food, great music, and good times with classmates at the Hilton in Philadelphia. All of the seniors who attended declared it a “night to remember”.

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giant

gentle

by

Brennan

R.

Woods

’11

I thought I had it all figured out. In the journey of life, our experiences entail personal goals. Entering La Salle College High School, I was a heralded basketball and baseball player whose primary goal was to make the “big shot” or pitch that “perfect game” under the lights. Over time I began to realize that life had other plans for me. I began to realize that in life there are “bigger shots” to be taken and that my real role was to help those who couldn’t take the shot at all.

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giant

gentle

continued

The people I encountered in my years at La Salle transformed my life and ignited my interest in the needs of others as opposed to my own. From the positive outlook I discovered from Brayan Pena, an impoverished yet always smiling five-year old on my trip to Cochabamba, Bolivia to the perseverance I learned from Mikey, a mentally handicapped resident at the Triest House in Glenside who was determined to finish his full ten minutes on the treadmill – taking the “big shot” became a goal of diminishing importance. Through the selflessness of Howard Zell, a resident at the Artman Home in Ambler, who asked me to switch his winning bingo card with Rose’s so she could taste victory and the humility of Margaret Brown, an Inglis House patient in Philadelphia, stricken with partial paralysis who somehow managed to take meal orders for the other disabled patients, I began to wonder why those in need like Howard and Margaret decide to serve those even more needy than themselves.

I continued to play basketball, making “big shots” from time to time. Through these shots I experienced feelings of temporary happiness and satisfaction. I also continued to serve the poor and destitute. Through weekly visits to Center City Philadelphia with my brother to meet with the homeless and hand out everything in our mother’s kitchen cabinet, I experience a special feeling. It is that indescribable feeling you get during the climax of an inspirational movie or song.

Service gives me this exhilarating feeling and the personal satisfaction of helping others.

I was approached by a faculty member who led a service project called “Secret Santa”, which is an opportunity for students to collect and purchase toys, dress up as “Santa” and his elves, and deliver these toys to patients of Saint Christopher’s Hospital for Children.

Based on my gregarious personality and 6’6” frame, I was asked to be Santa on Christmas Eve. I accepted wholeheartedly despite missing an important basketball practice. We arrived at the last of twelve houses to deliver presents to a child named James, who suffered with a malignant brain tumor. Upon entering the small house, I bellowed “ho-hoho” and searched unsuccessfully for James.

As I began distributing presents, I watched the father of the household begin to cry.

The father spoke to me in a whispered voice so that his children could not hear.

He told me that his wife had to rush James to the hospital that very morning because of inflammation in his tumor. His worries were overwhelming, while his other children rejoiced in the satisfaction of a magical-yetmakeshift Christmas. Santa and his team of elves became the hope amidst burden and the light in an otherwise dark situation.

Through my encounters with these aforementioned amazing people, I learned to take on others’ burdens as my own, to be broken down so others may be lifted up in their times of need. For me, a needy society was more relevant, more important, and more valuable than my sports teams. Just as one team member must perform at a higher level when his or her teammate is struggling or “in need”, the poor and destitute need to be relieved of their worries and burdens – at least temporarily. Originally self-interested in goals and intentions, I am learning to be a better teammate in the game of life. Instead of making the “big shot”, my efforts and focus have shifted to making “the assist” to those in their time of need. Rather than playing under the lights, I have focused on being a beacon of light in otherwise dark circumstances.

In an ever-changing world in which one can never learn or experience enough, my education and experiences at La Salle College High School will serve as a catalyst for my career goal of being in a philanthropic business venture. Based on the recognition and acknowledgement of the abilities of those whom I have encountered, I have learned that it is most effective to form “a team.” Winston Churchill once said, “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” While I cannot predict the play-by-play of the game of life, I am confident that with a team of unselfish members and my newfound appreciation for “assisting” others, the ball will never be dropped

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bleeding

Blueand Gold By

Kevin

P.

Gillespie

’11

From the moment I was born, I was destined to be an Explorer – with a capital “E”. With my father as an alum and teacher at La Salle, I always knew that someday I would be a student here. When my first day of freshman year started, I was, of course, nervous like everyone is on the first day of school.

Even so, I was thrilled to be officially joining the La Salle community.

However, I was not really sure what my role in this community was going to be. It was obvious that La Salle had extraordinary talent in academics, athletics, technology, and the fine arts. I needed to become an explorer in another sense – with a lowercase “e”. Not wanting to let my opportunity go to waste, I was motivated to work hard, join extracurricular activities, and, somewhere in between it all, find a place where I really belong.

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Blueand Gold continued Along this journey, I was able to try a lot of different activities and meet many different people. Even though I had strictly played piano since fourth grade, the Music Department let me borrow a trombone and take lessons at school, enabling me to be involved in the music program here in multiple ways.

Furthermore, even as an underclassman, I was able to get involved with service projects, track and field, the school newspaper, and various clubs and intramurals. It was all part of my growth in understanding where I could find my place within the school community.

The surprising part of my journey came as I began to realize that I did not have to find that one activity or group of friends in order to find a place to belong.

Many students are like me in the fact they like to be engaged in multiple activities and find friends with a variety of abilities and interests. This environment at La Salle has presented me a lot of opportunities to get involved and take up new challenges.

Throughout my four years at La Salle College High School, my understanding of what it meant to be part of this community has changed considerably. I quickly realized it is not all about bumper stickers or blue and gold sweatshirts. La Salle is not defined simply by its average SAT scores or number of championships. There are a lot of intangible aspects that better describe the school – from the various performances I have witnessed in the auditorium to the lessons I have learned in my classes.

Along the way, I have also learned many things that were not explicitly taught in a classroom. For instance, certain occasions in life call for a jacket and tie. Learning is not the same as memorizing. Men have the courage to advocate for themselves and speak out against injustice. And everyone deserves to be treated with respect, no matter who they are or where their interests lie.

For me, one the biggest factors in making La Salle such a special place has been the respect and camaraderie shared among the students and faculty members. Each fall, they trust in the potential of each new freshman who enters the front doors to develop into true Lasallian gentlemen after four short years. I have learned to respond to freedoms and opportunities by taking responsibility, as well as to communicate confidently and coherently with adults and teenagers alike. La Salle gave me the privilege to take an AP class even as a sophomore, write and give a reflection for a studentled prayer service, and spend a week of service on the Blackfeet Reservation in Montana. I have spent nights with other students and faculty members working with the homeless, just to wake up at five-thirty the next morning to play in a basketball game between a team of teachers and a team of students.

However, I am also grateful for the other members of the student body who every day remind me through example how to work hard and treat others with

compassion. Sometimes I am in a conversation with some of my fellow seniors and I think of how things have changed since those first days of school freshman year. People who I did not know at that time, who might not even share a lot of interests with me even today, have had important impacts on my life and become close friends. Although I am my parents’ only son, it would be a lie to say I do not have brothers; sincerely, I see them every day, in my classes, at the cafeteria table, and when we get together on weekends.

Going off to Haverford College in a few months will be difficult for me. Although I feel prepared for this new part of my life, I will be leaving behind a part of my life of which I hold so many fond memories. From student-initiated barbecues at the football games to games of Ultimate Frisbee after school to simply hanging out at friends’ houses on weekends, there are moments of true happiness from my time here that I will cherish for years to come. I will miss La Salle and all of the people who have influenced me during my four years here, but I will never forget the brotherhood nor the motto: “Enter to Learn, Leave to Serve”

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The face of rejection was new to me. Having been an accomplished and skilled three-sport athlete in grade school, failing to reach my athletic goals in high school shattered my dreams. I had once been the leader on the court and captain of the team.

However, once at La Salle College High School, I quickly learned that my athletic leadership ambitions would need to be adjusted. Despite being overwhelmed with sadness, I eventually re-evaluated my goals, and searched for more meaningful things I could accomplish at La Salle.

How to fill this new found void in my life became a priority. It did not take long for me to realize that my comfort zone was no longer on the court, I found greater satisfaction and accomplishment through “helping others.”

Tutoring Rafael, a fourth grade student at La Salle Academy in Philadelphia, gave me my first sense that I had found something meaningful to do after school on Tuesday’s. I later learned about a Homeless Outreach Program also after school one day each week that gave me the same strong feeling of worthiness. Preparing and delivering meals to the needy on the steps opposite of the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul in Philadelphia, our first stop, was an eye opening experience that would convince me to continue on this path of giving.

Moving on to Love Park, our next stop on the side of JFK Boulevard, we encountered a black man named Country. His passionate prayers to God in our presence for the food we had just provided him and his warm embrace convinced me this was a productive endeavor and one that

also had it’s personal rewards for me. These shared simple meals while conversing with the homeless broke down barriers and filled my life with happiness. No longer did I stress about athletics, I was becoming a leader committed to helping others.

By the end of junior year, I had completed the process of “reinventing” my self as one faculty member routinely encouraged me. I had done extensive work with service and was appointed a leader of La Salle Academy Tutoring Program and would contribute heavily towards Homeless Outreach. I was also appointed as a member of the board of the Lasallian Service Corps and earned placement in the National Honor Society. At SpeakUp, I received the Jimmy Coin for being a leader in the community. Lastly and most proudly, I was selected as a Junior Kairos leader on 37-74 and led as Rector on 37-75.

I had done it. I was a leader in the community and it wasn’t because I was swooshing the “three pointer”; rather because I was following my passion to help others.

The summer before senior year, I had the opportunity to participate in the Native American Experience in the Navajo Nation out west on the border of Arizona and New Mexico. This whole new experience taught me that all walks of life have their needy and working beside Calvin, a Navajo man, was inspiring. He taught me how to cut flat rock out of the mountainside, tar a roof, and other practical but necessary daily jobs. In addition, I learned much about the Navajo culture and the importance of hozho or harmony to their lives.

They believe in the revolving or circu-

larity of their lives, which is reflected in their traditional architecture of a hogan or house. Upon returning home from Arizona I spent a week as a mentor for 5th and 6th grade campers run by the Montgomery County Intermediate Unit. While sharing my leadership skills, I developed bonds with Liam and Charles and felt exhilarated when they confided that I had boosted their selfconfidence. Ironically, I was once the one who lacked self-confidence, but La Salle and service helped me grow back into the leader I knew I could be.

My most recent service endeavor has been orchestrating visits to the newly re-opened Sarnelli House. Located on Kensington Avenue in a drug stricken area referred to as Zombieland in some Philadelphia blogs, a group of students and I weekly visit Father Kevin at the Sarnelli House to either serve a meal or do improvements on the adjacent house. Before serving a meal, Father Kevin and I walk the infamous heroin and other drug corner of the Kensington Avenue and Somerset in hope to draw attention to the light outside the Sarnelli House for a meal. Symbolically, we offered the light and refuge of a place for nourishment, but also to talk to one another and share a story. This experience has affected me deeply because the people that walk through the door are young and addicted to drugs and/or alcohol. Recently, I met, Tyler, a young man about my age and homeless.

We provided him with food and a blanket to weather the night and directions to various shelters available to those like him. My visits to

the Sarnelli House confirmed in my mind there was much to be done in this impoverished area of the city, which inspired me to organize a two day retreat to take place over our recent Easter break. Supported by a faculty member, myself along with nine other seniors spent two days immersed in this culture of addiction and offered many helping hands.

Although my experience at La Salle was not as I had originally envisioned; it was the most illuminating path I could have taken. I shifted my leadership skills and applied them to my passion: helping others. Despite shortcomings on the court, I have re-invented myself and established my self a leader of service, and of my school. This passion for helping others was instilled in me by my parents. My mom likes to remind me by quoting one of her favorite actresses, Audrey Hepburn, “If you need a helping hand, you will find one at the end of each of your arms.

As you grow older, you discover that you have two hands, one for helping yourself, and the other for helping others.” At La Salle, I have put this advice into action and it has defined my experience here. In a time of darkness, service filled a void and was my light that led me to be the leader I knew I could be, and similarly I have been the light for many of those in need on the street. La Salle College High school uncovered my passions and taught me to lead by example. It became my priority in choosing the next chapter in my life, college, where I will continue my mission of offering a helping hand up on the hill in Worcester, MA at the College of the Holy Cross

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Curtain Call by

Eric

B.

Stone

’11

My home was always filled with music and art. Growing up, I knew the difference between staccato and lento before I knew my times tables.

Around the dinner table, my family was more focused on discussing art, music, and theater than on eating a meal together. My brothers, Tom ‘05 and Matt ‘07, both played instruments and sang in the chorus, and I followed their lead. I began learning piano and trumpet, joined my school’s choir, and started to participate in theater. Because of such a rich and cultured home, I quickly found my interests. But I still wasn’t content. I wanted more opportunities, more challenges, and a new environment in which to learn.

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Luckily, my brothers both found a new home at La Salle. They sang in the chorus, played in the band, and acted in the musicals. Having seen what a wonderful new experience they were having, I became jealous. One day, however, during my summer before the 6th grade, Mr. Ciccimaro invited me to play with the Pep Band at the football games.

Without hesitation, I accepted and my Lasallian experience began. In the limited time I spent practicing with the band and in the music department, I fell in love with the programs and the community. By the time I needed to choose which high school I would attend, I had already made a home at La Salle.

Freshman year was obviously a transition, but my experience was certainly eased by my involvement in band, chorus, and theater. I had friends in my class, but I also knew a lot of the other guys in the arts. I felt much more accepted and welcomed into La Salle because of the older students in the

band and chorus. Because of my involvement in music and the arts, I was able to appreciate La Salle early on and in a very unique way. I spent almost every moment of free time hanging out in the music department with the guys who I would call my closest friends. Over my four years, I have learned that strong, bonding experiences turn strangers into friends and classmates into brothers. For me, the arts at La Salle have some of the most powerful experiences of my life.

In music, no other school in the area rivals La Salle’s program.

Having participated in the Pep Band for almost half my life and the Competition Band for the last three years, I know that Mr. Ciccimaro and Mr. Vettori have developed a philosophy towards music education that perfectly suits La Salle and its musicians. They strive for and always achieve excellence, but understand that high school is a journey that requires more.

They create a close community in which we feel at home and can have fun, but at the same time understand that we want to play sports, act, sing,

debate, and do well in school.

I was lucky enough to be voted Band President for our senior year, and the most important responsibility I was given was to continue the long-standing tradition of having fun together and growing closer through music.

Past the band, I have also had the pleasure to be a part of one of La Salle’s closest communities: the chorus. Since freshman year, the chorus room has been my home at La Salle. It’s where I hang out with friends, study, take naps, and sing, obviously. But looking past the physical place, the chorus room is special because of what happens there. While me and a few friends were practicing as an a capella quartet, I stopped singing. When they asked me if something was wrong, I just said, “No. It sounded great!” What I wanted to tell them was that I stopped because I just realized how incredible it is to make music with friends.

Another artistic home of mine is the La Salle stage. After four years and what seems like a lifetime of memories, I can honestly say it’s the place I feel most comfortable. I’ve always enjoyed acting, but it truly became an art for me at La Salle. I was lucky enough to play some incredible roles, from Lumiere in Gwynedd Mercy High School’s Beauty and the Beast to the Man In Chair for this year’s The Drowsy Chaperone here at La Salle.

Through these roles, my interest has grown into a passion. The theater community at La Salle is large, yet close-knit, and serious, yet fun, all at the same time.

I honestly cannot believe that my four years of high school are coming to a close.

While I’m sad that I’ll be moving on, I know that La Salle has prepared me for wherever life leads me. I was lucky enough to find a home at La Salle, and I will always enjoy the memories I have. Though my future is uncertain, I am sure I will find another place to call home, because I will always have the arts as a foundation to build upon

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Entered to Learn – Leaving to Serve 2011 Entered – Leaving to Serve 2011 Entered to Learn – Leaving to Serve 2011 Entered to Learn Congratulations and Best of Luck to the Class of 2011 Ryan Edward Abbott Jamal Amin Abdur-Rahman Christopher Brett Alexander Dennis Francis Anao Nicholas Jay Angiolillo Juliano Carlo Arici Dalton James Becker Corey Tyler Begor Andrew Patrick Belcher Ryan Patrick Belcher Michael J. Bell, Jr. Jerry M. Bellettirie Eric Samuel Besso Andrew G. Biaesch Jeffery Ervin Biernat, Jr. Andrew Philip Bilotta John Paul Bogorowski Harry Bonet Brendan Owen Boyle Matthew McCoy Braithwaite Richard P. Brazukas, Jr. Alexander R. Brecht Daniel P. Brennan Joseph Charles Brown William John Burger Nicholas A. Burns Ian Matthew Bush Colin Patrick Bush Craig Alexander Cabrey Shane M. Campbell Charles William Cannon Robert Capece, Jr. Anthony Angelo Caporizzo Cameron Michael Cappo Alexander Ronald Carapellotti Michael A. Casciano, Jr. Christopher James Catalino Anthony Robb Certa Kendal Lamar Chaney Ryan Cocron Thomas Edward Coleman, III Steven Michael Collins John Patrick Corcoran Michael Declan Crouse Alexander Dean Cunnane John Francis Curtis, IV Connor Joseph Daly Richard A. Danze, II Christopher Joseph Dearolf Donald James DeBrakeleer, Jr. James Nicholas DeCarlo John Patrick Delaney, III Nicholas Joseph Dema, III Robert J. DeSante, Jr. Kyle Matthew Dierkes Mark Joseph DiFrangia Nicholas William DiGioacchino Timothy Anthony Diorio Stefano Paolo DiPietro Matthew James Donnelly Michael Dowling Mark S. Draganescu

Jonathan Patrick Draham Tyler Joseph Dunphy Charles Joseph Dunton Joseph Andrew Dusing Stephen Alexander Duzinski Sean Thomas Dwyer Andrew C. Eckert Anthony M. Esposito, Jr. Daniel Raymond Ezzo Michael Francis Ferrier William Patrick Fisco Terrence J. Foley, Jr. Joseph Louis Forcellini Kevin Forster Nicholas James Frazzette Jeremy David Fus Tyler Allen Gaber William Nicholas Galbally Victor Rafael Garcia Ryan James Geiger Christopher George Genesio Benedetto Giaimo Stephen R. Gibbons Kevin Patrick Gillespie Casey Thomas Gillespie Patrick Daley Givnish Michael J. Glatz Christian D'Anthony Green William Norbert Hammeke John Patrick Harkins Michael Ryan Harrell Joseph Charles Harvey Andrew Martin Heller Alexander Nicholas Hicks Alexander Michael Holva Thomas John Horn Samuel T. Hyder Michael Timothy Jacobsen Alexander Devereux Jaconski J. Thomas Jaquay Joshua Michael Jaskowiak Zachary David Jones Edward Joyner-Mitchell Alexander Joseph Junod Christopher John Patrick Kappler Robert James Kelly Ryan Michael Kelly Joseph Weber Kelly Jamison Patrick Kenney Patrick C. Kerr Matthew B. Killian Michael A. Kowalski Brendan Joseph Kretschman Nicholas James Krol Brian Charles Kron Neil Patrick Laessig Alexander Peter Lafond John Ryan Lawlor William C. Lewis Marc Joseph Liberato Andrew Lonergan Timothy Francis Longacre

Patrick James Looby John Philip Loughery Joseph Matthew Lukach Brian Joseph Lynch Gordon Patrick Lynch Alex D. Lynn Brendan Mills Lyons Charles Jackson Magee Kamran S. Mahmud Matthew John Mahoney Colin Edward Malone William Patrick Marble Edward Henry Marino Del C. Markward, Jr. Jordan Andrew Mayo Joseph J. Mazzi, III Brian Richard McAloon Timothy James McCabe Ryan William McCann Joseph William McCreavy Christopher Martin McElroy Terence Ian-Thomas McFadden Shamus Patrick McGowan Patrick Sean McGuire Colin Andrew McIntosh Jeffrey McKenna Michael Hugh McNally Clayton David Melsheimer Dominic Mirabile Frederick Anthony Mischler Kyle Frederick Mischler Michael Anthony Miskiel William F. Mitchell, III Michael John Mooney James T. Mooney,III Seamus Connor Morgan Christopher David Muggler Patrick J. Mulderig Conor Francis Murphy Joseph Ryan Naji Edward Francis Nelling, III Malcolm Henry Nichols John Preson Nicola Robert N. C. Nix, IV Timothy J. Nolan Jakob Clifford Noon Christopher Bruno Nunnari Patrick Francis O'Donnell Stephen J. Obermeier Nicholas John Palermo Calvin Alan Perlman Michael M. Pham Timothy Francis Pidgeon Kevin Michael Piotrowicz Michael Shawn Plummer Anthony Francis Polcino Michael B. Poncia David Andrew Power Matthew J. Pyrih John Joseph Quigley Paul Michael Quinn William Rutledge Rate

Connor James Reilly Benedict Joseph Reilly Robert Rhodes Marcus L. Richardson Matthew Joseph Rose James W. Rose, III Colin Patrick Rothwell Adam George Rotzal James Patrick Ryan Nicholas Kern Sabia Eric Armando Samuels Michael Joseph Sanders John Joseph Santangelo Matthew Santiago Richard Albert Sauter John Rudolph Schatz Daniel Peters Schelkun Brendan Hunter Schluth Robert H. Schrupp Andrew Francis Shafer Nicholas Lee Shafer Jonathan Michael Shettsline Tyler James Sicilia Nicholas Grant Simone Michael D. Smith Thomas Robert Smith, Jr. David P. Speese Eric B. Stone Brendan Patrick Stone Alexander Christos Subers Curran Thomas Sullivan Sean Michael Sweeney Colin William Sweitzer Francis A. Szamboti Benjamin Mark Thackray, Jr. Ian S. Thompson Sean Patrick Toner Thomas Edward Trainer Kieran J. Trainer Frank R. Trocino, III William Bradley Turner Michael A. Vecchione, Jr. Timothy Richard Vellner Vincent Joseph Veneziano Nicholas Michael Walchonski Christopher Francis Walker Christopher Kenneth Walter Stephen Patrick Wasylenko Philip K. Watson, Jr. Dale Jennings Weed Caleb Paul Weiler Christopher Andrew Whiteside Ryan Patrick Williams Andrew Warrick Wilt Robert Lee Winkelman Cole Joseph Wisdo Roger C. Woehrle Brennan Robert Woods Timothy Hunter Young Brian J. Zielinski

The Class of 2011 has been accepted to the following schools: Albright College Alvernia University Arcadia University Assumption College Bethany College Binghamton University Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania Boston College Boston University Bridgewater College Bridgton Academy Bucknell University Bucks County Community College Cabrini College California University of Pennsylvania Carnegie Mellon University Case Western Reserve University The Catholic University of America Centenary College Chestnut Hill College Clemson University Colby-Sawyer College College of Charleston College of New Jersey College of the Holy Cross College of William and Mary Colorado Christian University Colorado School of Mines Cornell University Curry College Delaware College of Art and Design Delaware State University Delaware Valley College DeSales University Dickinson College Drexel University Duquesne University East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania Eastern University Edinboro University of Pennsylvania Elizabethtown College Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Emory University Evangel University Fairfield University Fairleigh Dickinson University Florida Gulf Coast University Florida Institute of Technology Florida State University Fordham University Franciscan University of Steubenville Franklin & Marshall College

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Full Sail University Geneva College George Mason University The George Washington

University Georgetown University Gettysburg College Gwynedd-Mercy College Hampton University Harrisburg University of Science and Technology Harvey Mudd College Haverford College Hawaii Pacific University High Point University Hofstra University Holy Family University Immaculata University Indiana University of Pennsylvania Iona College Ithaca College Jacksonville University James Madison University Johns Hopkins University Johnson & Wales University Keystone College King’s College Kutztown University of Pennsylvania La Salle University Lafayette College Lebanon Valley College Lehigh University Lock Haven University of Pennsylvania Loyola University Maryland Loyola University New Orleans Lynchburg College Manhattan College Marietta College Marist College Marquette University Maryland Institute College of Art McDaniel College Michigan State University Millersville University of Pennsylvania Monmouth University Montgomery County Community College Moravian College Mount Saint Mary’s University Muhlenberg College Neumann College New York University Niagara University Nichols College Northeastern University Ohio University Old Dominion University

to Learn – Leaving to Serve 2011 Entered to Learn – Leaving to Serve 2011

Pennsylvania State University System and Honors College Philadelphia Biblical University Philadelphia University Plymouth State University Providence College Purdue University Quinnipiac University Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Richard Stockton College of New Jersey Rider University Robert Morris University Roberts Wesleyan College Rochester Institute of Technology Roger Williams University Rosemont College Rutgers University Saint Francis University Saint Joseph’s University Salisbury University Salve Regina University Santa Clara University Seton Hall University Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania Springfield College St. John’s University Susquehanna University Syracuse University Temple University Towson University Tufts University United States Naval Academy The University of Alabama University of Chicago University of Colorado at Boulder University of Connecticut University of Dayton University of Delaware University of Hartford University of Maryland, Baltimore County University of Maryland, College Park University of Massachusetts, Amherst University of Miami University of Michigan University of Mississippi University of Notre Dame University of Pennsylvania University of Pittsburgh System and Honors College University of Rhode Island University of Richmond University of San Diego University of San Francisco University of Scranton University of South Carolina University of South Florida

University of Saint Thomas University of Tampa University of the Arts University of the Sciences in Philadelphia University of Vermont University of Virginia Ursinus College Vanderbilt University Villanova University Virginia Commonwealth

University Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Wake Forest University Washington University in St. Louis Wentworth Institute of Technology Wesley College West Chester University of Pennsylvania West Virginia University West Virginia Wesleyan College Western New England College Widener University Wilkes University Wittenberg University Xavier University York College of Pennsylvania

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COLLEGES AND

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arn – Leaving to Serve 2011 Entered to Learn – Leaving to Serve Academics

National Merit Recognized Students (left to right) Timothy Nolan, Ryan Abbott, Samuel Hyder, Christopher Dearolf, Joseph Naji, Jeremy Fus, Jeffrey Biernat, Alexander Brecht, Daniel Ezzo, Nicholas Frazzette, Joshua Jaskowiak, Dominic Mirabile, Kevin Gillespie, Andrew Biaesch, William Marble, Andrew Bilotta, and Eric Stone

Music and the Arts

Top Row (left tom right) Jacob Noon, Christopher McElroy, Kevin Gillespie, Robert Schrupp, Samuel Hyder, Caleb Weiler, Eric Stone, Nicholas Walchonski, Andrew Wilt, Kamran Mahmud, and Andrew Lonergan Seated (left to right) Anthony Certa, Christopher Dearolf, James Rose, William Marble, John Santangelo, Brian Kron, William Fisco, Terrance Foley, and Ryan Cocran

2011 Entered to Learn – Leaving to Serve 2011 Entered to Learn – Leaving to Serve 2011 Entered to Learn – Leaving to Serve 2011

to Learn – Leaving to Serve 2011 Entered to Learn 246 Seniors from 98 Elementary Schools and 72 Zip Codes 2 National Merit Finalists

15 National Merit Commended Students

Cavalcade Association of Bands Competitions Superior with Honors Rating Best Rhythm Section Award Best Saxophone Section Award Best Trombone Section Award Best Trumpet Section Award Outstanding Soloist Award 56 Seniors Actively Participating in the Music Program

Speech and Debate Philadelphia Catholic Forensic League Debate Champions PHSSL District 11 Champions 10 Qualifiers to National Catholic Forensic League Finals 17 Qualifiers to PHSSL State Finals

– Leaving to Serve 2011 Entered to Learn – Leaving to Serve 2011 Entered to Learn – Leaving to Serve 2011 Entered 86 Senior Members of the National Honor Society (Minimum GPA of 3.50)

Leaving to Serve 2011 Entered to Learn – Leaving to Serve 2011 102 AP Scholars (a score of 3 or higher on three or more AP exams taken during the 2009-2010 academic year) 99% of the Class of 2011 has Enrolled in 84 Colleges and Universities in 20 Different States

73% of the Class of 2011 has earned over $25 million in Documented Scholarships and Grants

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Service and Ministry erve 2011 Standing (left to right) Nick Dema,

Technology

Seated (left to right) Will Fisco and Colin McIntosh

011 Entered to Learn – Leaving to Serve 2011 Entered to Learn – Leaving to Serve 2011 Entered to Learn – Leaving to Serve 2011 Brendan Stone, Pat Kerr, Dominic Mirabile, Sean Sweeney, Kevin Gillespie, and Ben Giaimo

Athletics

Entered to Learn – Leaving to Serve 2011 Entered rn – Leaving to Serve 2011 138 Students Participated in Summer Service Projects in Five Different States and South America 21 Voluntary Service Projects Heed the Call to Community Service Seven Days a Week

Standing (left to right) Fred Mischler and Craig Cabrey 4 Microsoft Certified Technical Specialists 8 Microsoft Certified Professionals

Two Branch-Out Days Featuring Single-Day Service at 22 Different Sites Throughout the City of Philadelphia

2 Microsoft Certified Associates

Kairos Retreat for Seniors – Overnight Student-Led Spiritual Retreat Focusing on Relationships

25 Students Supporting a Network of 35 Servers, 135 Laptops, 185 Desktops, and 1,400 Users

1 Adobe Certified Associate

Explorer Standouts (left to right) Tom Trainer (Cross Country), Mike Glatz (Explorer), Joe Forcellini (Baseball), Chris Catalino (Swimming), Neil Laessig (Hockey), Anthony Caporizzo (Bowling), Phil Watson (Track and Field), Jack Bogorowski (Lacrosse), Nick Shafer (Rowing), Kevin Piotrowicz (Soccer), Andrew Wilt (Tennis), C.J. Dunton (Golf), Ian Thompson (Water Polo), Ryan Geiger (Wrestling), Eddie Mitchell (Basketball, and Jamal Abdur-Rahman (Football) Football Philadelphia Catholic League Champions PIAA District 12 (City) Champions Runner-Up – Pennsylvania State Championship

Swimming Philadelphia Catholic League Champions PIAA District 12 (City) Champions Second in the Pennsylvania State Championships

Golf PIAA District 12 (City) Champions

Tennis Philadelphia Catholic League Champions PIAA District 12 (City) Champions

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to Learn – Leaving to Serve 2011 Entered to Learn – Leaving to Student Organized School Liturgies and Prayer Services

100% Participation by the Class of 2010 in Voluntary Community Service

Only Level One Microsoft IT Academy in the State of Pennsylvania

First High School to Deploy Microsoft Windows 7 and Server 2008

Hockey Flyers Cup Champions Runner-Up – Pennsylvania State Championship

Wrestling

Catholic League Champions ving to Serve 2011 Entered to Learn – Leaving to Serve 2011 Entered to Learn – Leaving to Serve Philadelphia 2011 Entered to Learn – Leaving PIAA District 12 (City) Champions

Entered to Learn – Leaving to Serve 2011 Entered Lacrosse Defending Philadelphia Catholic League Champions Defending PIAA District 12 (City) Champions

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by Jamison P. Kenney ’11

While looking back upon my four years at 8605 Cheltenham Avenue, I start to question where all the time has gone. I can still remember the first day of school in September of 2007. I was nervous about so many different things and had no clue as to the experiences that La Salle would create for me in the next four years. Upon arrival that first day, I quickly realized that I had no reason to be nervous about making friends and fitting in.

Everyone at La Salle was very welcoming and willing to help.

This willingness is characteristic of the students and faculty at La Salle College High School because everyone seems to fit in.

I am fortunate to have attended La Salle as I came from the Mayfair section of Northeast Philadelphia, where most students attend local archdiocesan schools.

I know that if I had attended one these schools, I would not have nearly as many opportunities. Some of these opportunities include my service trip to Arizona last summer, where we were able to give much needed help to fix the Saint Michael’s Indian School, as well as the church. I learned that this area of Arizona has ties to

Kid

Philadelphia as Saint Katharine Drexel purchased the land in the Northern tip of Arizona and founded the school and Church.

While in Arizona, we did a lot of service and traveled to different regions and parishes. We did roofing, painting, landscaping, redecorating, building and so much more. We also went to different canyons and traveled all around the region. A number of the sites were amazing. One such place, Window Rock, is the capitol of the Navajo Indians and literally has a huge hole in one of the rocks. I never thought twice about sacrificing part of my summer vacation to provide service and look forward to the day when I am able to return to this region of the country to help again.

Another important opportunity that La Salle has afforded me is preparation for the future. Next year, I will be attending Penn State University.

I feel very well prepared because of all the hard work that I have put into my education at La Salle College High School. I am confident that I possess all of the necessary tools to achieve my goals in the coming years.

La Salle instilled in me a work ethic that has proven to be the foundation for my academic

success. In order to get through the course load at La Salle, one must have a very strong work ethic. I think this work ethic will be most beneficial for me down the line.

La Salle opened up the opportunity to attend the senior tradition of Kairos.

Kairos, which means “God’s Time”, is a very unique experience which allows the students and faculty to spend four days and three nights with friends, teachers, and most importantly God. Everyone has a different Kairos experience, and therefore everybody takes something different out of their experience.

Through my Kairos, which was Kairos 37-78, I altered the way I think of myself, my friends and family, and God. I gained many friends and confidence through this Kairos, and I truly believe that Kairos is what really solidi-

fies a graduating class from La Salle College High School. Then, after my own Kairos experience, I applied to be a leader on the following Kairos. I was chosen to lead Kairos 37-79. To be a leader is a great honor, because a leader is able to help their peers have their own Kairos experience.

La Salle College High School has given me so many different opportunities – many of which I would not have received at another school.

I learned to help others and appreciate my relationships with God along with my family, teachers, and peers. La Salle has instilled in me a work ethic which will help me though the rest of my life. Perhaps most importantly, La Salle College High School has taught me to be a real gentleman, which I will never forget

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Problem Solver by

Nicholas

J.

Frazzette

La Salle has truly had an incredible impact on my personal growth into a young man. I’ve been fortunate enough to participate in a number of opportunities and activities, and I can trace back each of my defining traits to experiences at La Salle.

I learned a passion for service through Building Bridges of Solidarity – a summer service trip

to Bolivia that I will continue to foster for the rest of my life. I practiced outlets of strength and energy through the wrestling team and formed bonds with close friends. I have given myself back to La Salle through mentoring in freshmen homerooms and helping new students realize all that there is to take advantage of here. However, there is one specific facet of mine that La Salle has given me opportunity to mature and master to the fullest extent – my own mind.

In grade school, I always found academics to be straightforward, and I was able to quickly grasp many concepts. However, I was always limited by the controlled

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curricula and frequently was unable to pursue the knowledge that I sought. I still see my seventh grade teacher at Mass almost every Sunday, and she always jokes that she dreaded my hand going up into the air because it inevitably led to a question she could not answer.

At La Salle, however, the academic atmosphere is completely different. As the years progressed, I was given more and more freedom to study what I wanted to study; each class challenged my perceptions and my abilities in new ways.

My freshman year English class with Mr. Janda, remains one of my favorite experiences. I struggled initially to write essays and follow proper MLA format; I even failed an essay or two. By the end of the year, however, I had become an excellent writer. I have no doubt that Mr. Janda’s tutelage is responsible for my growth.

In biology, I finally found the answers to questions my teachers couldn’t answer. Mr. Gillespie and my textbook was together a repository of knowledge that seemed bounded only by my own willingness to learn, and I certainly was willing. As I advanced through the years, my options for Advanced Placement and honors level classes continued to open up new possibilities for knowledge. Calculus never ceased to amaze me, as numbers and patterns became perfectly clear. U.S. history gave me a better appreciation for those who came before me and

laid the foundations of government for years to come. Sacred Scripture afforded me a real glimpse into the life behind the man who began an entire faith.

All of my classes were windows into worlds that I had never even considered in grade school.

However the most educating experience of my career at La Salle was, curiously, not an academic class. During the August before my freshman year, I attended a meeting at La Salle for those interested the Speech and Debate. I had no concept of what speech or debate entailed, but like so many of my other interests, curiosity brought me to the meeting. Also, I loved to argue, especially with my parents concerning just how much of the dishwasher was my responsibility. Being a naïve freshman, I signed up for almost every event. However, I soon found my niche in Lincoln-Douglas debate. Lincoln-Douglas is a form of debate, modeled after the famous series of debates between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas, which focuses heavily on questions of morality and justice; one principally argues for the “why” behind an action. Through LincolnDouglas, I was exposed to ideas I have never seen elsewhere.

The Categorical Imperative of Immanuel Kant and the “Veil of Ignorance” proposed by John Rawls conflicted in my mind. I learned to weigh Aristotle’s conception of Justice, “to each their due”, with Morality and the

definition of right and wrong.

Lincoln-Douglas also had an impact on my ability to excel in almost every other pursuit. After researching through hundreds of scholarly sites and reading thousands of scholarly essays, I learned to pick apart essays and other readings in English class with ease. The logical steps taken from argument to argument in debate quickly translated into aptitude at geometric proofs. I used my knowledge of argumentation and finesse for public speaking to earn several top marks and honors. But more important than recognition were the lifelong skills of research and public speaking that I learned, as well as honing a critical eye and sharp mind to find the best alternative to a given situation.

Finally, I made lifelong friends who, when we are not busy bickering over trivial details, will lend a hand for me whenever I need.

Overall, La Salle has certainly been a place of growth and maturation for me, from spiritual beliefs to academic skills. Without the courses and extracurricular activities La Salle had to offer, I know I would not be the young man I am today

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Rolling Stone by

Brendan

P.

Stone

I sometimes like to think, “What would life be like without La Salle?” I never thought that I was going to attend La Salle College High School when I was growing up. The only school on my mind at the time was Springfield High School. I never knew anything different. I loved the school and had a great group of friends.

Then, La Salle came in to the picture. My parents wanted me to take the opportunities that La Salle had to offer, especially the extraordinary academics and exceptional Cross Country and Track Programs. When decision time rolled around in the spring of my eighth grade year, I reluctantly signed the enrollment form and accepted my admission to La Salle.

Seeing the band playing and the Explorer mascot posing for pictures under the brick arches that lead to La Salle’s entrance is still a clear image in my mind from my first day of school. All I could think to myself as I entered the double doors was, “What am I getting myself into?” Looking back on this moment, I realize that walking through those glass doors and entering La Salle was more than just an escape from awkward photos – it marked a time in my life that I captured an opportunity. Starting the first day at La Salle, I found that I was part of more than a school.

I was a member of the La Salle community. I entered an environment that would help me

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grow. I would have to work hard to achieve my goals, but I was actually cared for in this school.

The teachers and faculty members cared about me from the first time I stepped foot in the La Salle hallways.

La Salle has given me more opportunities to pursue my passions than I could have ever imagined. I was able to join the Cross Country team when I started at La Salle. It was the first time I was part of a team, because during grade school I was the only Cross Country runner from my local parish, so I would just train with my dad. From the very the first practice, it was nice to see that I was part of a team that cared for me. I had people watching over me at La Salle that were not even my teachers. These upperclassmen guided me through my first year of high school and helped me find role models among my peers. The coaches also guided me through La Salle and showed me how to be not only a good athlete, but a good person. Through the wisdom and care of Coach Devine, the perseverance and work ethic of Mr. Bielecki, the friendliness of Mr. Devlin, the compassion of Ms. DeRose, and the faith of Mr. Horvath and Mr. Demeter, I found that the team was almost a second family. My whole career as part of the La Salle Cross Country and Track teams has had plenty of ups and downs. I have performed

well for the team and have helped contribute to championships as well as finished dead last in races and let the team down. But when I look back on my time as a member of the Running Program, I am not going to remember my personal best marks or how many races I won or lost; I will remember my teammates, those guys who make coming to practice every day fun, and I will remember my coaches, the people who kept all of us coming back for more.

I have been able to grow as a person, leaving the team as a mature young man ready for more than just the next interval work out.

In addition to finding my place at La Salle through the Running Program, I also found that I was given a multitude of opportunities to develop leadership skills.

Starting freshman year, I was able to take on the role of being a leader by getting involved in Student Council. As a council member for the past four years, I have realized how much work it takes to become a leader. It took me a while to realize that sometimes the best leaders are the best followers. I found that listening to what people wanted was the best way to become an effective Student Council Member. Freshman year I was too busy trying to see where I could make immediate impacts on school events, but soon I found out that when I slowed

down and listened to my peers, I was really able to make an impact. Although next year I am not going to be at La Salle, and new Student Council members will put their own ideas to the test, I still feel a sense of accomplishment, because I was able to learn not only how to lead, but how to listen. Learning how to find a purpose in what I was doing is what is going to help me in the future.

“What was I getting myself into?” Well, I can answer that question now. I was opening the door to the future of my life. As a member of the Running Program and Student Council, I have found that La Salle has taught me how to pursue my passions. I am confident that for the rest of my life I will look back to various lessons I have learned at La Salle to guide the way. These lessons are not just about Calculus, History, or Chemistry; but more importantly, lessons on how to do the right thing and be a good person. I am going to miss La Salle a lot, and leaving here will be a bittersweet experience.

I am glad that I am moving on to a new chapter in my life, but I am going to miss my friends and those members of the La Salle community who have helped me discover the real “Brendan Stone”. “What would life be like without La Salle?” I cannot even imagine

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photogallery

Communion Breakfast and Hall of Fame Induction March 6, 2011

Members of the Class of 1958 Celebrate with Alumni Service Award Recipient Joe Donahue ‘58

Members of the Class of 1965 Celebrate with Hall of Fame Inductee Tom Donnelly ‘65

Members of the Class of 1972 Celebrate with Hall of Fame Inductee Tim Hughes ‘72

The Donahue Family Surrounds Alumni Service Award Recipient Joe Donahue ’58

Alumni Association President Michael Donohoe, DC ’79 with Hall of Fame Recipient Tom Donnelly ’65 and his Presenter, Greg Bielecki ‘99

The Loughery Family Surrounds Alumni Service Award Recipient Bill Loughery ’70

The Hughes Men (Father and Sons) – Don ’80, Bob ‘70, Gene ‘67, Dr. Eugene Hughes ‘42, Tom ‘73, Tim ’72, Chris ‘76, Brian ‘78, and Ed ‘67

Alumni Association President Michael Donohoe, DC ’79 with Hall of Fame Recipient Tim Hughes ’72 and his Father/Presenter, Dr. Eugene Hughes ’42 – the only Father/Son Combination in the La Salle College High School Hall of Fame

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photogallerycontinued

Grand Reunion April 30, 2011

John Bissell ’66, Michele Bissell, Ann McCloskey, and Steve McCloskey ’66

Class of 2006 – John Brady, John Peruto, and Kevin McCort

Class of 1981 – Brian McCormick, Mark Cantwell, John Duffy, and Joe Motz

The Grand Reunion Drew Record Numbers

Gene Cattie ’66, Peg Cattie, Dottie Pannepacker, and Bob Pannepacker ’66

Class of 1986 – John Livingood, Marc Madison, and Ron Bean

Kelly Wickersham, Dave Wickersham ’96, Andrew Morrell ’96, and Paige Morrell

Class of 2001 – Ryan Beck, Patrick Luschini, Ed Keenan, Josh Borkowski, and Kyle Elliott

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50-Year Reunion June 3–4, 2011

John Moore ’61, Louise Moore, Nancy Crowley, Dennis Crowley ’61, Ed Kohlhepp ’61, Betsy Kohlhepp, Linda Durney, and Charles Durney ‘61

Carol Whiteman John Whiteman ’61, Eileen Crow, and Tom Crow ‘61

Charlie Dunleavy ’61 is Congratulated by Principal Joseph Marchese and Brother Richard Kestler, FSC ‘60

Faculty Member Joe Lynch ’61 is Congratulated by Principal Joseph Marchese

Newest Golden Explorers – Class of 1961

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photogallerycontinued

Baccalaureate Mass June 3, 2011

Principal Joseph Marchese Addresses the Graduates

The Administration of La Salle College High School – Tom Barna, Julia Maher, Daniel McGowan, Brother Richard Kestler, FSC ’60, and Principal Joseph Marchese

Brendan Stone ’11

Reverend Anthony Janton, AFSC ’69 Speaks to the Congregation

Proud Explorers – Eric Samuels, Kendal Chaney, Marcus Richardson, and Phil Watson

Eric Stone ’11 Delivers the Baccalaureate Address

Joe Kelly ‘11 Performs a Musical Reflection

Explorer Standouts – Fred Mischler, Alex Holva, John Curtis, Tyler Dunphy, Jim Ryan, and Charlie Magee

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Commencement Exercises June 4, 2011

Honor Students – Brendan Stone, Patrick Mulderig, and Tom Trainer

Proud Graduates – Andrew Eckert, Jack Corcoran, and Tom Smith

Proud Explorers – Steve Duzinski, John Santangelo, Will Marble, Paul Quinn, Brian McAloon, and Jeremy Fus

Joshua Jaskowiak ’11 Addresses the Graduates

Principal Joseph Marchese Congratulates Valedictorian Christopher Dearolf ‘11

Dominic Mirabile ’11 Delivers the Commencement Address

Salutatorian Andrew Biaesch ’11

Class of 2011 – Ben Giaimo, Fred Mischler, Adam Rotzal, Kevin Gillespie, and Chris Alexander

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Golden Explorers (1930’s, 1940’s, and 1950’s) James Connelly ’47 recently completed a four-year program of biblical studies offered by The Biblical Institute of the Diocese of Camden.

Costantino P. Cerini, PhD ’49 is now 100% retired.

Joseph Echelmeier ’51 trekked to the Matterhorn in the Alps in September 2010 and took an Adventure Trip through Ecuador in November 2010. Joseph is a retired Bridge Engineer residing in Mexico.

Enos Ney ’51 is looking forward to the 60th anniversary of the Class of 1951 Graduation.

classnotes Al Pfluger ’52 sends greetings from Maitland, FL, where he and his wife, Rosalie, are enjoying the beautiful Florida weather in their replica 1929 Mercedes Benz Gazelle Roadster.

Ray Fitzpatrick ’56 is enjoying retirement and spending time with 2-year old grandson Liam as well as playing more tennis and golf. Ray also enjoyed two weeks in Florida during January and time in Seattle with his daughter.

Charlie Dolaway ’58 celebrated his 70th birthday on March 18, 2011.

Tom Lynch ’58 of Haverford Trust Company was named to Philadelphia Magazine’s 2010 Five Star Wealth Manager List.

Robert M. Smith ’59 continues to row on a daily basis and coached the Owen J. Roberts High School crew this past season.

Sunday, September 11, 2011 Greate Bay Country Club Somers Point, New Jersey Classes of 1946 to 1958

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1960’s Michael Gumrot ’61 is Vice Chairman of Kent County, Delaware PAC to MPO. Eugene Cattie ’66 continues to live in Richmond, VA Area working over forty years in higher education finance and administration.

Tim Erb ’66 again taught Greek, Albanian and Cypriot students counseling skills in Athens, Greece for La Salle University. Tim also appeared on the television show, “Coming to Terms: Drugs and Alcohol” with Delaware Valley parents and high school students. In addition, Tim did “SpeakUp” presentations on drugs, alcohol, and stress at many Delaware Valley High Schools including Mount St. Joseph’s Academy, La Salle College High School, and Gwynedd Mercy Academy.

Reverend Gerry Ronan ’66 sends his best wishes to the Class of 1966 on their 45th reunion. Congratulations and thanks to Tom Donnelly ’65 for being a fantastic role model to our cross country and track teams.

Len Sloane ’66 and Jim Haggerty ’72 are presenting the 29th Annual Auto Seminar for the Pennsylvania Trial Lawyers’ Association. Len was voted by his peers as a Top 100 Super Lawyer in Philadelphia Magazine for the 7th consecutive year.

Martin Grims ’69 is retired and living in Colorado.

Mike Etzl ’66 and his wife Rita are enjoying life in Arizona. Mike is staying busy as the Division Chief of the Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders and the Co-Director of the Jaydie Lynn King Neuro-Oncology Program at Phoenix Children’s Hospital.

William Gibbons ’66 is the Chair of the Department of Medicine – Holy Redeemer Hospital. He has been in practice of Internal Medicine for thirty-four years.

Alan Keogh, DO ’66 continues to practice medicine in the specialty of Hematology Oncology. He is actively involved in the teaching of medical residents and students from Temple Medical School. He is the Division Chairman of Hematology Oncology and Chairman of the Cancer Committee at Brandywine Hospital. Dr. Keogh is also involved in clinical trials in Hematology Oncology through Thomas Jefferson University.

Reverend Anthony Janton, AFSC ’69 was honored by his classmates on May 10, 2011 when they dedicated the Chaplain’s Office in his honor.

The Class of 1969 raised over $100,000 from classmates as part of the current capital campaign to name the office in Father Tony’s honor.

The Class of 1966 celebrated its 45-Year Reunion at La Salle College High School on Saturday, April 30, 2011.

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1970’s Captain John J. Carr, USAF (Ret.) ’70 and his wife Paula celebrated their 20th anniversary in September. They enjoy retirement in New Hampshire.

Michael Cassidy ’71 is an Orthopedic Surgeon at Fairfax Hospital in Virginia.

Edward Klenk ’71 ran the Rome Marathon in 2010 and will miss his reunion this year as he will be running the Louisville Marathon. Ed enjoyed spending the week in Rome and visiting the Christian Brothers Provincialate in Rome.

Richard Briggs ’72 was awarded a John Simon Guggenheim Memorial Foundation Fellowship for 2011. He is an artist living in Brooklyn, NY. Mark Magarity ’72, President and CEO of Sentry Hospitality, was honored

by Torch Foundation in March of 2011.

Matt Mullen, MD ’72 was recently elected to the Board of Directors of the American Academy of Urgent Care Medicine.

classnotescontinued Frederick C. Hellwig ’76 retired in June 2001 from the U.S. Army with twenty years of service, 2nd ACR, Master Parachutist (82nd ABN), Legion of Merit (LOM), (Germany, Korea, Bosnia, Haiti, Kosovo, Italy). Since retirement, he has been a Principle Analyst, Program Manager, and Program Directors with EWA IIT, Herndon, VA. John Worthington, III, MD ’76 continues to live in the Boston Area and has recently moved to a house in the suburbs like a grown-up. He enjoys being a season ticket holder for the Red Sox and Celtics, but he keeps his Philadelphia connection by rooting for his beloved Philadelphia Eagles.

Andrew Malone, CPA ’78 joined Fesnak & Associates as a Tax Partner on November 1, 2010. Andy’s youngest son Colin graduates from La Salle College High School in June of 2011 and his oldest son Patrick ’06 is continuing his studies at West Chester University.

Leaving A Legacy

George G. Galyo ’76 remarried in October 2010 and has just retired from the US Navy after thirty-one years of service. George is currently residing in Chesapeake, VA.

The Class of 1971 celebrated its 40-Year Reunion at La Salle College High School on Saturday, April 30, 2011.

Ernest “Chip” Behr ’73 first left his mark on La Salle College High as a student athlete in the early 1970’s. As Captain of the Swimming Team, he led the Explorers to Philadelphia Catholic League and City Championships.

One of four brothers to attend La Salle – Jim ’78, Mike ’82, and Jerry ’84 – Chip and his wife, Julie, were determined that their sons experience the same opportunities. Evan ’99 and Colin ’05 both followed in their father’s footsteps in attending La Salle College High School and flourishing in the swimming pool. As a La Salle parent, Chip served as President of the Men of La Salle and chaired the school’s auction. He later served two terms on the school’s Board of Trustees. Recently, he has proved to be instrumental as Vice-Chair of Fulfilling the Promise, La Salle’s current capital campaign.

No one could ever accuse Chip Behr of not leaving a legacy at his Alma Mater. However, he was not finished. Recently, he worked with the Office of Institutional Advancement to make a planned gift to the school. His gift is part of the capital campaign and, through Chip and Julie’s generosity, La Salle will continue to benefit from the mark first left by Chip back in the fall of 1969.

The Class of 1976 celebrated its 35-Year Reunion at La Salle College High School on Saturday, April 30, 2011.

When asked why he made La Salle College High School part of his will, Chip simply responded, “I had a wonderful experience at La Salle. The Christian Brothers and the entire La Salle Experience helped to form me into the man I am today. Both of my sons loved their experiences at La Salle – academically and athletically – and I am positive that the La Salle Experience helped to influence and mold each of them. I sincerely want to see the Christian Brothers and Lasallian education continue, so I do the one thing that I can do – give back”.

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1980’s Eugene Halas, Jr., MD ’86 was recently appointed to the Board of the Perkiomen Watershed Conservancy. Gene traveled to Haiti as part of the non-profit work he does with Father Chuck’s Challenge, an organization that builds housing, water systems, health clinics, and schools,.

Michael P. Miehle ’86 has been a United States Soccer Federation Referee since 2009 with Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Association.

The Class of 1981 celebrated its 30-Year Reunion at La Salle College High School on Saturday, April 30, 2011.

The Class of 1986 celebrated its 25-Year Reunion at La Salle College High School on Saturday, April 30, 2011.

Date e h t e v a S La Salle Auction 2011 Saturday, November 5, 2011 Auction Co-Chairs Susan Dearolf and Gerard Plourde Auction Director Donna Bennett

La

Auction Manager Susan Bilotta

Sa

ll e A u c t

0 ion 2

11

For more information please contact the auction office at 215.402.4915 or auction@lschs.org

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classnotescontinued

1990’s Living In A Fishbowl Mike O’Hara ‘92 left his L.A. band without a lead singer so he could come home and watch at least 2,454 live Major League Baseball games in a first-of-its-kind Manhattan fishbowl that everyone will come to know as the MLB Fan Cave.

O’Hara will inhabit the Fan Cave every day for the entire 2011 season along with his wingman, Ryan Wagner, to watch all 2,430 regular-season games plus all postseason contests. He will chronicle their experiences and share his viewpoints on baseball and pop culture through Facebook, Twitter, a blog on MLB.com and regular appearances on MLB Network.

There will be visits by MLB players and celebrities, parties, musical performances, interactive fan activities, and other events throughout the baseball season. Street traffic will be constant and curious, with fan inter-activities scheduled throughout the season, depending on the day of the week.

With thirty 14-foot windows, the pair’s every move and all of the events and activities at the MLB Fan Cave will be visible to fans out on the street.

O’Hara is a serious fan who was the lead singer for “The Mighty Regis,” a group named after Regis Philbin. O’Hara graduated from Syracuse University and was accepted to law school before deciding to instead move to L.A. He has guest-starred on multiple TV shows including “Parks & Recreation,” “The Foxx/Crocket Show” and the “Jo Koy Show,” and has been a guest star/writer for MTV’s “Punk’d” and “Short Circuitz” and NBC’s “The Real Wedding Crashers,” among others. His band was part of the 2010 Vans Warped Tour lineup and has been featured on FuseTV and “Live! With Regis & Kelly.”

Louis Tulio ’92 has represented the USA rugby team internationally since 2000 as both a captain and player. He is one of the few select in the United States who has represented the country internationally on both the Rugby League and Rugby Union squad. Recently, in a Test Match against Ireland in Philadelphia, Louis won the Man of the Match Award in front of his family and friends. Off the field he is a Mortgage Banker at Gateway Funding in Horsham and enjoys time with his wife Alison, daughter Isabella, and son Alec.

James E. Maloney, Jr., PE ’93 was promoted to Vice President and Assistant Branch Manager of Johnson Mirmiran and Thompson’s Philadelphia office. JMT is a 720 person consulting engineering firm specializing on infrastructure and transportation.

Mathew Holbert ’98 started two new companies in late 2010 – BNW Enterprise, LLC and HRM Properties, LLC – both are real estate/property investment companies.

“I’m just looking forward to doing something as an actor and performer,” O’Hara said. “Any time you get a chance to do something new, not been done before, you want to make it a spectacle everyone’s going to dig. Whether you’re a Yankees fan or a Giants fan, whatever your team, it’s a chance to bring people into the discussion about baseball.

The Class of 1991 celebrated its 20-Year Reunion at La Salle College High School on Saturday, April 30, 2011.

The Class of 1996 celebrated its 15-Year Reunion at La Salle College High School on Saturday, April 30, 2011.

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2000’s Paul Colistra ’00 married Colleen Haggerty on September 25, 2010.

The nuptials were witnessed by several generations of Explorers.

Thomas Walsh ’06 married his wife, Courtney, on January 8, 2011.

Matthew Zielinski ’06 is enjoying another baseball season at West Chester University.

LCPL Brad Hollingsworth ’07 was deployed to Libya.

Liam O’Neill ’07 and his partner, Peter Schmidt, represented Drexel University and won the Varsity Men’s Pair Championship at the Dad Vail Regatta for the second consecutive year.

Dan Pyne ’08 goalie on the Pennsylvania State and Flyer’s Cup Championship hockey teams in 2008 represented the USA on the national hockey team that competed in the recent games in Turkey. The USA finished in sixth place, the highest the USA has ever attained in this competition, with a record of three wins and three losses. Dan was the goalie in four of the games and finished with a record of 2-2. Dan is currently a junior at Drexel and resides in Warrington PA.

Colistra Wedding Reception First Row (left to right) Chris Dougherty ’00, Kevin Dougherty ’00, Kevin Merlini ’99, Dan Galbally ’00, Phil Haggerty ’07,and Tim Fenningham ’99 Second Row (left to right) Frank Bogle ’65, Joseph Colistra ’64, Paul Colistra ’00, Joseph Colistra ’95, Joseph Ciccimaro ’57, Brett Foley ’00, and Jordan Mulrain ’00 Third Row (left to right) John Steinmetz ’77, Carl Smith ’81, Kevin Schmidt ’91, Bob McAnespey ’66, Paul McGurkin ’72, Brian Gallagher ’75, Kyle Callahan ’00, Joe Winning ’69, Sean Kent ’99, John O’Hara ’99, Patrick Mallach ’00, Joe McQuillan ’83, and Chris Carabello ‘82

Joe Moroney ’10 will be headed to Kenya as part of a group of students from Penn State who will be working with medical kiosks in remote villages.

Joe started his passion for service in remote parts of the world, when he and eighteen of his classmates traveled to Cochabamba, Boliva following his junior year at La Salle.

Robert McCreight, Jr. ’01 accepted a new position with the Haverford Police Department after two years with the City of Chester.

David Drayton ’02 married Krystle Benetz on March 26, 2011. David and Krystle reside in Ambler, PA. 1LT Conrad Lochocki, USAF ’02 was deployed to Afghanistan, flying the Pave Hawk Combat Rescue and Emergency MedEvac Helicopter. He has already flown over fifty combat missions.

The Class of 2001 celebrated its 10-Year Reunion at La Salle College High School on Saturday, April 30, 2011.

Joseph Martosella, Jr. ’04 has finished his second year at Villanova School of Law. Matthew Stigliano ’06 is currently studying towards a PhD in Neuroscience Research at University of Massachusetts Medical School in Worcester, MA. Rob Stott ’06 is the Assistant Editor for ASAE (the American Society of Association Executives) in Washington, DC. ASAE is a membership organization of roughly 22,000 individuals representing 12,000 organizations, and the goal of the organization is to help those individuals and associations become better at what they are doing. Rob is responsible for the publication of a monthly magazine called Associations Now, which includes interviews with CEOs and other executives sharing their knowledge about the association world.

Michael Venafra ’06 is studying to become a Certified Public Accountant.

The Class of 2006 celebrated its 5-Year Reunion at La Salle College High School on Saturday, April 30, 2011.

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We Welcome We Remember Tony Clemente ’80 and his wife, Onikepe (Onyx) Adegbola, became the proud parents of triplets, Anthony, Stephen and Adrianna, on March 4, 2011.

Gerard Cattie, Jr. ’84 welcomed a daughter, Louisa Armstrong Cattie-Watt, on October 6, 2010.

Gregory Dever ‘89 and his wife, Christine, welcomed a boy, James Thompson on January 26, 2011.

Francis J. Abromaitis, Sr. ‘49

Eugene J. Mooney ‘47

William R. Barranger ‘55

Michael F. Quinlan, MD ’65

Anne J. Haviland, grandmother of Matthew ‘13

Robert J. Becher, Sr, ‘61

Arthur W. Pagan, Jr. ‘59, brother of Thomas ’62 and John ’72.

Caitlin Hennessey, sister of Joseph Hennessey ‘06.

Charles J. Schaefer ’43

Donald J. Jones, Sr., father of Donald Jones, Jr. ‘83

James P. Boland, MD ‘48 Gerard F. Cattie, father of Gerard F. Cattie, Jr ’84; grandfather of Benjamin Tursi ’99; uncle of Joseph Cattie ‘62, Eugene Cattie ’66, David Cattie ’68, John Cattie ’66, Ed Kelly ’60, and Mark Kelly ’73.

John L. Schmidt ’52 John L. Schmidt ’56 Edward U. Sontheimer ’39 S.R. Swinburne ’65

Jamie Barton ’91 and his wife, Bridget, welcomed their fourth child, Andrew Barton, on February 19, 2011.

David W. Deasy ’81, son of Richard Deasy ’55; brother of Richard Deasy ’80.

Thomas J. Tobin, Jr. ‘50

John Butler ’91 and his wife, Carmen, welcomed a son, Manolo “Manny” Butler, on February 22, 2011.

Daniel J. Dougherty, ‘44

Peter A. Wutzer ‘55

Daniel Dougherty ‘46 Anthony J. Faraco ‘55

Kevin Scully ’91 and his wife, Tracy, welcomed a daughter, Nora Elle, on September 27, 2010.

Michael F. Funchion ‘82, brother of John ’80, Kevin ’82, and Brian ’90; uncle of Nolan Funchion ’10.

Doug Demeter ’93 and his wife, Amy, welcomed a son, Patrick John, on January 12, 2011.

John T. Gray ‘45

Marc DiBenedetto ’96 and his wife, Kathy, welcomed a son, John on December 25, 2010. A wonderful Christmas present.

Tom McCaffrey ’01 and his wife, Erin, welcome a boy, Logan Francis, on April 11, 2011.

Francis J. Vassalluzzo, MD ‘48

Olga Abromaitis, husband of Francis ’49.

Robert “Zeney” Bartkowski, grandfather of TJ Bartkowski ’98, Brad Bartkowski ’02, and Steven Sucharski ’02.

Harry J. “Hank” Hagan ‘41

Patricia M. Campbell, mother of John ’81, Mark ’83, and James ’85; grandmother of Michael ’07

Charles J. Howard ’40

Vincent A. Carr, father of Vincent ‘99

Thomas E. James ‘47

Joseph F. Convey, brother of James ‘41 and John ’48.

S. Richard . Klinges III, Esq. ‘49 James J. McCabe, Esq. 47 Nicholas J. Marino ‘47 James D. McCall ‘46 John R. McDonnell ’53, brother of Martin ’57.

Mary F. Daly, wife of John M. Daly, MD ‘65.

Walter W. Dearolf, father of Walter “Chip” ‘74 and Charles ‘77; grandfather of Christopher ‘11.

Catherine Fynes, mother of William ’65.

We Honor

“To protect and to serve.” The motto of the Police Department and one of the most recognizable phrases in law enforcement has become synonymous with making a difference. No better is it exemplified then in the lives and actions of Howard and Jennie Leary.

Howard Leary is a graduate of the Class of 1935. He was from humble upbringings and earned a scholarship to La Salle College High School, where he was a star quarterback and a leader on and off the field. He worked as a truck driver and laborer to put himself through Temple University, where he later earned a law degree.

He joined the Philadelphia police force

in 1940 and quickly rose through the ranks. He was named Commissioner in 1963 bearing a reputation that was both professional and progressive. He proved to be an instrumental figure in settling civilian unrest during the racial uprisings of the 1960’s and, in 1966, was selected by Mayor John Lindsay to head the Police Department of New York. Mr. Leary was widely praised for making innovations in the department. He established the 9-1-1 police emergency number and set up a computerized dispatch system.

He also worked to increase diversity by recruiting more black and Puerto Rican officers. He retired in 1970 and had a brief career in private security followed by ten years as a professor of criminal justice. He died in 1994.

Jennie Hines Leary is no stranger to service. She qualified for the 1936 Olympic Games in Berlin, but was unable to represent our country because she could not afford the travel and lodging expenses necessary for participation. She spent the next forty years as a teacher in the

School District of Philadelphia and dedicated her life to the education and mentoring of children. Upon the death of her husband, she turned to La Salle College High School, the place he attributed to providing his start in life. Howard benefitted greatly from the scholarship assistance given by the Christian Brothers and it was his wish that other young men, who might not otherwise be able to afford it, be given the advantages of a Lasallian education. Jennie established the Howard and Jennie Leary Endowment Fund – a scholarship fund that assists the sons of policemen, firemen, and civil workers in the City of Philadelphia. To date, over twenty young men have benefitted from this scholarship, which is the single largest endowment fund in the history of La Salle College High School. In 2008, a display in honor of Howard, Jennie, and their commitment to the school and its students was erected in The Brothers Atrium.

In November, Jennie Leary celebrated her 92nd Birthday. She did so in the

Mary A. Keogh, mother of Alan Keogh, DO ’66.

Joseph Mastronardo, father of Joseph ‘66 and John ‘73; grandfather of Joseph ’00 and John ’13.

Francis X. McGorry, grandfather of Sean ‘04, Stephen ‘06, and Francis ‘10.

John S. Ondik, III, father of John ’79.

Mary Ellen Palmieri, mother of Daniel ’75.

Thomas Reilly, son-in-law of Francis Spause ’69.

Eleanor Rongione, mother of Nicholas ’72 and Donald ’75.

Harry Slifer, father of Harry ‘84, grandfather of Kyle ‘14 Frank Stanczak, father of Frank ‘75; grandfather of Michael ‘05 and Matthew ‘07; uncle of Martin Stanczak ‘60 Londie R. Tulio, grandmother of Louis ’92 and Michael ’96.

Joseph E. Washko, father of Mark ’85.

James J. Webster, father of James ’70, Michael ’73 and Joseph ’83.

same fashion that she has done for the last several years – having lunch at La Salle with the boys whose education she has helped to make a reality. A photo is always taken that day and she treasures it along with all of the Medals of Honor from Howard’s days as a member of the police department. The photos serve as constant reminders of the lives she has changed and her continual commitment to the education of young men from varied backgrounds.

During the Commencement Exercises held on June 4, 2011, Jennie Hines Leary was presented with the President’s Medal by Brother Richard Kestler, FSC ’60. Her unwavering service and commitment to an institution that her husband cherished has forever left a mark on the lives of many young men. She continues to protect and serve today’s youth by helping to provide an education that makes a difference. The President’s Medal is her own Medal of Honor and one that is very much deserved.

Homecoming ‌the tradition continues.

Friday, September 16, 2011 5:00 to 7:00 pm New Athletic Fields Park at Springfield High School and Walk Across Paper Mill Road to the New Fields

$20 per person Free for Children 12 and Under Price includes BBQ, Beverages, and a Ticket to the Football Game You must register in advance to receive a free ticket to the game.

Followed by La Salle College High School West Catholic High School

vs.

Springfield High School Stadium 7:00 pm Halftime Ceremony Honoring the 1989 Catholic League Championship Football Team

RSVP by Monday, September 9, 2011 Register online at www.lschs.org or call (215) 233-2350

E X PLORE R

The Official Magazine of La Salle College High School

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

Giving Made Easy Automatic Deductions from your Checking Account or Credit/Debit Card

Visit www.lschs.org/recurringgift “Like many other La Salle alumni, I’m so grateful for the fine education that I received at the high school that I’d like to give back in a big way each year to the Annual Fund. However, like many others, I’m not able to do that with one big check. I’ve found a great way to do both – give back in a big way and not have to do it all at one time. My La Salle Annual Fund gift is spread out over twelve months through a monthly checking account withdrawal in whatever amount I deem doable for me. Others can do the same thing either from their checking account or by means of a monthly charge to their credit card. Either way works just fine for the school and makes it easy on you. Consider giving your support to the La Salle Annual Fund through the Explorer Monthly Plan. You’ll be happy you did.”

Louis J. Beccaria, PhD ‘63

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