Saint Francis High School
The Tau
Spring 2010
A Magazine for Alumni, Parents & Friends
Following in the Footsteps of Francis
In this Issue
From The President Dear Friends,
Following in the Footsteps of Francis Pages 4 & 5 Alumni News & Notes Pages 8 & 9
Winter Sports Pages 10-12 Baccalaureate & Graduation Page 12 Class of 1960 50th Anniversary Page 13
Saint Francis High School
The Tau
Spring 2010
A Magazine for Alumni, Parents & Friends
In many ways the commencement exercises on May 28th mark the end of the academic year and the beginning of another milestone for the men of St. Francis. Congratulations to the 134 young men who are now added to the ranks of alumni. They have earned a combined total of over 12 million dollars in grants and scholarships to further their college education. We also congratulate the class of 1960 who celebrated their 50th anniversary and were recognized at commencement. As I entered Our Lady of Victory Basilica for commencement, I stopped and prayed at the tomb of Fr. Baker and reflected on his life and the life of Fr. Justin. They had so many things in common, their concern for the needs of the young men in their care. They both established and built major institutions in Western New York, and both had a gift to raise funds for the support of these institutions. I do pray and give thanks to all our generous donors who have supported the fundraising efforts throughout the year. Justinian XXIX – Assisi Under the Stars- was a huge success with net proceeds of $175,000. Thank you once again to the cochairs of Justinian XXIX: Beth and Bill Berry, Rosemary and Jim Biddle and Kelly and Dennis Vacco. Their leadership and hard work made this Justinian the second largest to date. I am also thankful to all who generously support our Annual Giving Appeal; in the midst of difficult economic times your generosity will help us to once again meet our goal. Yet, we still need your support, for the needs are really greater than ever, an envelope can be found in this issue of the Tau. If you have not made a donation this year, I ask you to do so now and please return the envelope promptly, since our fiscal year ends on June 30th. The generosity of so many to Annual Giving makes it possible for many young men to attend St. Francis High School. From the class of 2014 over 45% receive some form of assistance; by giving you are helping many. Thank you, for this is truly the Franciscan spirit in action.
Following in the Footsteps of Francis
On the Cover: The Basilica di San Francesco, Assisi. Faculty members John Zygaj and Mollie McDermott travel to Assisi to gain a greater understanding of St. Francis and the mission of St. Francis High School
Many are already aware that the Franciscan community celebrated the 800th anniversary of the Franciscan Order this past year, and I can’t help to think that St. Francis himself would be pleased with the ministry of Education and how we continue to strive to keep the Spirit of St. Francis alive in our school. I would ask you to read the article highlighted in this issue about the pilgrimage of two of our faculty to Assisi this past March in an effort to experience and learn more of the Franciscan charism. It is our hope that this pilgrimage program will continue, and help our faculty and staff to understand more clearly our Franciscan heritage. Finally, may all have a safe and restful summer, and I hope to see you at one or more of the many events that have been planned in the upcoming months. Pax et Bonum,
Tony’s Topics
Tony Kosowski’75 Vice President for Institutional Advancement September to June, eight months, 43 weeks, 303 days – same as last year and the year before(except for the leap year). So why does it seem to go so much faster now? It seems like it was just the first day of classes, the puzzled, apprehensive faces of freshman, the new senior class looking like they are in-control of their last year, sophomores and juniors like the middle kid in the family – not the youngest, and not the oldest. And now here we are just a few weeks away from the last days of the school year. Of course, it all starts up again, in July, which may be why it seems to go faster each year. Just as we do when studying history, let’s look at what happened this past year from an Institutional Advancement standpoint. Our students had a successful fundraising effort with the Bonanza raffle hitting the goal set for them, in fact, hitting an over-achievement goal. Thanks to donors like you we are, hopefully, going to hit our goal for this year’s Annual Giving Appeal (there is an envelope in this Tau newsletter, if you would still like to help with this the Appeal). Justinian XXIX was a tremendous success, the second largest ever, next to the 25th anniversary year. Daily Draw continues to be a good source of funding for our tuition assistance program. The Alumni Memorial Mass paid tribute to those, who are dearest to us, were lost this past year. Open House, held for potential new students at St. Francis was again a success, as we continue to look for new ways to showcase how we can make a difference in the lives of the students who attend SFHS. We are in the process of updating our website, in an effort to make it more user friendly. It is a tremendous way to stay in-touch with what is happening at our school.
school, at the end of May. Many of the guys haven’t been back to the school or seen each other since they left 50 years ago. It’s always a great time to see how they reconnect after all those years and then how they stay in touch thereafter. The 5th anniversary reunion was held for the Class of 2004 this past November, and again, it was nice to see how the guys reacted to seeing each other after being away for just 5 years. As is usually the case there is a tremendous amount of work, time and effort put into each of these events to help make them successful and usually I am seen as the front person for many of the events. The fact is that most of the work is done by our incredible staff. They are the ones who have orchestrated these events and have been able to drive them to success, again with your financial and volunteer help. I am truly thankful for all the hard work and dedication given to each of the events by Kathy Hahn, Sue Schaffstall, Sheila Mangino, Conni Rokitka, Paul Bartell and Jerry Gorczyca. I guess it is because of their hard work that makes the time go by so fast!
There are always new things happening at the school and with class reunions, stay connected by checking out the SFHS website www.stfrancishigh.org. There are always new pictures and information about all facets of SFHS. Justinian XXIX – Assisi Under The Stars was a big success, thanks in large part to all our donors, especially: The President’s Club -Hodgson Russ, LLP, Mader Construction, Great Lakes Concrete and Dennis & Kelly Vacco. The Principal’s Club- Gernatt Family of Companies and Hilbert College.
The 50th anniversary reunion for the Class of 1960 was held at If you are ever in the area, please stop in for a visit and a tour. the We welcome your comments... aint rancis au Jerry Gorczyca’73 schaffstalls@stfrancishigh.org Vol. 1 - No. 3 Tony Kosowski’75 Sue Schaffstall Published three times a year by the Sue Schaffstall Editor & Director Saint Francis High School Yearbook Staff of Communications Office for Institutional Advancement Photographers 4129 Lake Shore Road Matthew Gorczyca’09 Athol Springs, NY 14010-0185 Pat Kaczmarczyk Feature Writer www.stfrancishigh.org Kathy Hahn 716-627-1200 Fr. Justin Ross Zak Schaffstall’09 Proofreading Graphics Assistance
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Following in the footsteps of Francis
“Imbued with the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi, we prepare young men to use their knowledge for the good of society and to see God in all people, especially the poor and neglected.” This line from the Mission Statement of St. Francis High School gives us a glimpse of what St. Francis stood for and how we as members of the Franciscan community honor his mission. While we all strive to be examples of St. Francis’s work, some of us never have the opportunity to walk the same steps he took when creating his Order 800 years ago. For two of St. Francis High School’s faculty, the steps of St. Francis became ‘home’ for a near two week pilgrimage. For Miss McDermott and Mr. Zygaj, this pilgrimage changed their lives in ways they said they never even imagined. The pilgrimage had taken these two, along with other travelers, through Assisi and Rome. Miss McDermott and Mr. Zygaj got a close hand perspective of the life of St. Francis and a deeper understanding of the Franciscan Tradition. From hearing how life changing pilgrimages like these can be, I was interested in finding out what their expectations were and whether they were met. For both, there were very few expectations, but as Mr. Zygaj remarked, he felt “very fulfilled and his expectations moved beyond his imagination.” The same went for Miss McDermott who noted that this pilgrimage built a family bond between everyone who experienced this spiritual revival.
By walking the same steps that Francis walked, Miss McDermott and Mr. Zygaj, were able to connect this pilgrimage to their roles as leaders in carrying out Francis’s mission. For Miss McDermott she “learned more in 10 days than she ever knew before,” allowing
her to understand Francis’s mission on a deeper level. Seeing and understanding Francis’s “commitment to poverty and the love he had for everything,” was a way of seeing the strength of Francis in his quest of serving God, Miss McDermott remarked. Francis came from a wealthy family, who turned away from financial security to live simply in the eyes of God. The aspect of simplicity is something Mr. Zygaj noted that was something profound for him. “Assisi is beautiful in its simplicity,” is what Mr. Zygaj said served to show how Francis’s desire for poverty and simplicity is something that allows for a more authentic relationship with ourselves, each other, and our God. After all, the Franciscan vow of poverty is the idea of moving away from the distractions in life that keep us separated from one another, and more importantly separated from God.
In a world so consumed with technology, we often “loose God,” Mr. Zygaj notes. The growing problem of technology obsession is why Mr. Zygaj believes the Franciscan Tradition is so important today. Miss McDermott pointed out how our world today is filled with judgment. By judging one another we are not seeing God in one another, we contradict the integrity
Not only did this pilgrimage allow for Miss McDermott and Mr. Zygaj to see the importance of the Franciscan Tradition in the world today, but also as the strong foundation of St. Francis High School, and their roles as teachers. As St. Francis and St. Claire helped to establish the Franciscan Order and lead people to God, so is the duty of the teachers of St. Francis High School in educating and inspiring their students. For both Miss McDermott and Mr. Zygaj, the pilgrimage influenced their roles as teachers for the better. By understanding the Franciscan Mission on a deeper level, they have become even more aware how influential they are in the lives of their students.
They also see their students in a different light. By being more understanding and patient, as Francis would be, these teachers have seen the outstanding potential in the students. Miss McDermott and Mr. Zygaj talked about what they do to shape these students into Renaissance Men. Primarily in applying the philosophy and values of Franciscanism, both teachers have helped to build a brotherhood among the students, as well as build a sense of
awareness for the community and world around them. Miss McDermott put it perfectly when she stated, “A person can do things to enrich themselves while they help others.” I think this statement is the perfect reflection on St. Francis and his Mission. By living simply and seeing God in others we can truly understand ourselves and our world better, all while becoming even closer to God. With such a learning experience on educational, historical and spiritual levels, it was hard at points for both teachers to express how this journey changed them. However, it was clear how it was an experience that enriched them on a deep spiritual level. While we may not have experienced the very same pilgrimage, we can all take the steps of using the Franciscan Tradition to make ourselves better persons and serving others. As both teachers were inspired to take this pilgrimage, I felt the same urgency as well just hearing their stories. For those who cannot travel to Assisi for a walk in St. Francis’s steps, we can all feel proud that St. Francis High School through its faculty and staff, Social Justice Program, and clubs like the Franciscan Youth Ministry, have all allowed the students to live the values of St. Francis and to enrich themselves and make the world a better place because of the Franciscan Tradition. Editors Note: Mollie McDermott began teaching at St. Francis High School in September 2000. She teaches Math 10H and 11H. She is Student Council Co-Moderator, Junior Class Moderator and Fine Arts Assistant. John Zygaj is a 1997 graduate of St. Francis High School and began teaching here in the 2006-2007 school year. He has taught religious studies 9,11 and philosophy. He is the freshman head soccer coach, assistant tennis coach, textbook coordinator, assistant moderator of FYM, co-moderator of the freshman class, house manager of the theater . He has accepted the position as Dean of Students beginning July 1, 2010.
A Journey to Assisi-by Matthew Gorczyca ‘09
of our Mission Statement. Miss McDermott noted that Francis before his conversion was a selfish man who judged others, but realized that we are all human beings and were made in the image and likeness of God. Thus Miss McDermott stated that, “The Franciscan philosophy is to love all and help all and not to judge,” because judgment is also an element that separates us from one another and God.
Fine Arts
Kiss Me Kate March 19, 20 and 21 Alumni Hall Theatre The 38th Annual Fine Arts Banquet and Awards Ceremony On May 16, 2010, 185 students were honored for their commitment to and participation in the performing, visual and literary arts at the school’s annual Arts Awards Banquet held at Romanello’s South Restaurant. A large number of family and friends joined faculty and Fine Arts staff in recognizing the accomplishments of all of our student artists. Congratulations all!
The Newly inducted members of PAVAS
Performances by: The Male Chorus, Chorus Classes, Senior Schola Cantorum, Concert Band, Jazz Messengers and Percussion Ensemble.
Sounds of Spring
Spring Concert - April 14, 2010
Alumni News & Notes
1970’s
Bill O’Neil’71 participated in the San Antonio(Texas) half Marathon on November 15, 2009 finishing in 1 hour 55 minutes and placing in the top 9%. A runner while attending St. Francis High School, O’Neil has participated in 10 marathons and 6 half marathons. Daniel S. Blake’76, CFP, MS of Southtowns Financial Group, Inc., has qualified for membership in the Million Dollar Roundtable for the 18th consecutive year. The Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT), The Premier Association of Financial Professionals, is an international, independent association of more than 31,500 members. Louis J. Billittier, Jr. ’77, Vice President of Chef’s Restaurant, has been named to the Board of Directors of the Buffalo Hearing and Speech Center. Buffalo Hearing and Speech Center is a comprehensive diagnostic and treatment center for children and adults with speechlanguage and hearing problems.
1980’s
George Kline ’82, has been named a 2010 National Catholic Education Association Catholic Elementary School Distinguished Graduate. George currently serves as the Purchasing and Transportation Manager for NOCO Energy Group in Tonawanda, N.Y. He is also the Athletic Director of St. John Vianney School and coaches the basketball, baseball and track teams. George, his wife Mary Ann and four children Kristen, George, Kailey and Kourtney reside in West Seneca, N.Y.
1990’s
Dave Zielinski’92, has been promoted to Sr. Manager of Equipment Engineering at Philips Home Healthcare Solutions, New Kensington, PA. He and his wife Deena have three children- Gracie, 8, Andie, 6 and Riley, 2. In their spare time, they operate ZeeBee Honey Farm where they keep bees, raise chickens and grow produce. Dave also teaches part time at the Penn State University, New Kensington Campus in various continuing education programs.
Brad Rybczynski ’93 and wife Andrea recently moved to Lake View, N.Y. Children, Walt, Madeline, Luke and Grant are all doing well. Brad’s company, Rybczynski Consulting is nearing its one year anniversary. He is also part owner in a solar consulting and procurement business, NYSol Energy, LLC and serves as the V.P. of Business Development. Recently Brad announced his candidacy for the 146th New York State Assembly District. Brad is also president of the St. Francis Alumni Association and serves on our school’s board Richard P. Blatner III’95 and his wife are the proud parents of a baby girl, Taylor Lynn, born on Sept. 14, 2008 and weighed 6 lbs. 8 ozs. and 19 inches long. Chris Kane’96 and his wife Kate welcomed Thomas Stephen Kane into the world on Friday, May 07, 2010 at 5:01 AM. Thomas Stephen is 19” long and weighs 7 lbs. 8 oz. Jason Pohlman’97, has formed Mindful Designs, a design/build company that emphasizes environmentally sustainable practices, energy efficiency and wise use of resources. Jason and his wife Lisa, along with their infant daughter Alina, live and work in Whitefish, Montana. Benjamin R. Stiller’97, lives with his wife of 6 years (Julie) and 1 month old son (Colton Benjamin) in Chicago, IL. Ben earned a BBA from Notre Dame in 2001 and a MBA from UCLA Anderson in 2007. He is currently a manager at Deloitte Consulting in its Consumer Products Strategy and Operations practice. R.J. Friedman’99 and his wife, Kelly, celebrated the birth of their daughter, Emily Mack Friedman, on February 18, 2010. Gabriel Edwards’99 and wife Kristie Edwards welcomed the birth of their daughter Grace Elliot Edwards on April 2, 2010 at 12:09 am, weighing 7 lbs 12 oz, 20.5 inches long.
2000’s
Philip Blatner’01, and his wife Lauren and their son Landon, welcomed a baby girl, Isla Noel to the family on December 26, 2009. Philip also graduated with a MBA on May 15, 2009. He is currently employed in the family business, Capital Heating & Cooling as Office and HR Manager. Ryan Bessey’02, married Lindsay Drzazga, ‘02 graduate of Mt. Mercy Academy. The wedding took place on November 7, 2009 at Our Lady of Victory Basilica.
Derek Sobczak ‘06 was the Student Trainer for the Erie Otters (OHL) during the past 2008-09 hockey season. In the picture, with Derek is Head Coach Robbie Ftorek (who played in the NHL with Detroit, Quebec and the Rangers in the late 70’s & 80’s) along with his cousin Dave Sobczak. Derek’s role with the team was to assist the Head Athletic Trainer in all capacities. Derek received his degree this past May from Mercyhurst College in Athletic Training and Sports Medicine.
Please remember in your prayers the following members of the St. Francis High School Family who have recently passed away: +Robert Androff Grandfather of Nicholas Ziomek’06, and Zack Ziomek – Class of 2010
Bill Hochul’06 graduated in December with honors from Geneseo. Following an internship at the State Department this Spring in Washington, he was hired full-time as the New Media Officer. He will be starting at University of Notre Dame Law School In the Fall. Mike Cunningham’05, is currently serving an 8 month tour of duty in Iraq. Paul Goodwyn’07, a junior at SUNY Geneseo majoring in Bio-Chemistry, has been accepted into Early Assurance Program at SUNY Upstate Medical School in Syracuse. Paul hopes to pursue a career in Family Practice Medicine.
Corey Hymes’08 received the Rookie of the Year Award for the Cortland Football team.
+John Dibiase Grandfather of Blaine Aldrich ’09 +Lucille Fiduccia Mother of Paul ’73 +Patrick Ginley Father of Paul ’86 +Alfreda Hojnacki Grandmother of Ed - Class of 2013
+ Elizabeth Buccieri Mother of Brian ’79, Daniel ’83 Grandmother of Dominic – Class of 2012
+Edward Kaczor Father of Gary ’76, Grandfather of Eric ’08
+Patricia Claus Mother of John ’89, Greg ’92
+Theodore Katra Father of Chuck ’86 Grandfather of Robert ’99, David ’00 & Terry ’03
+Velma Cunningham Mother of Brendan ’73
+Stephen Rosputni Grandfather of Joseph ’97, Andrew ’07 & Jacob – Class of 2011 - Weber +Robert St-Pierre Grandfather of Kevin Biehler – Class of 2012 +Berniece Sojda Grandmother of Joshua ’97 & Scott ’99 +Louise Szymetowicz Mother of Ron ’60, Grandmother of Jonathan ’01 +Joan Walsh Grandmother of Michael ’01, Timothy ’03, Daniel ’07
+William Klementowski P.E., ‘52 January 28, 2010
+Paul Wojtaszek, Ph.D. ’81
+Kathleen McCarthy Grandmother of Bryan ’09
Carol L. Young Wife of Edward J. Meaney ‘52
+Carole DeMarco Grandmother of Anthony III – Class of 2010
+John “Jack” Nihill Grandfather of David Wozny ’01
+Faustina DeSantis Grandmother of Jake ’08, Zachary - Class of 2010, Benjamin – Class of 2013 – Dylik
+Marion Wittmann Grandmother of Dan – Class of 2012, Robert – Class of 2010
+Leonard S. Pittner ‘47
+John Cwiklinski Grandfather of Daren ’08 & Christopher –Class of 2010 – Sporski
+George Roma Grandfather of Adam ’04
+Veronica Zaklikowski Grandmother of Adam ’00
Alumni News & Notes
Ryan is the son of Mark and Lynda Bessey. Fr. Charles officiated and David Nease arranged the music. St. Francis Alumni included in the wedding party were Philip Ganci ’02, Michael Gibson ’02, and Matthew McCormick ’04. Ryan and Lindsay live in Lloyd Harbor, NY where Ryan works for the US Fish and Wildlife Service
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Winter Sports Recap
Basketball
The 2009-2010 St. Francis High School Varsity Basketball team boasted eight seniors this year, however only two players, Kyle Clifford and Matthew Reger saw significant playing time last season. Head Coach Ed Hoak believed this was his most talented team in his three years coaching varsity but just as the Raiders may have improved so have the rest of the Monsignor Martin League, with five Teams consistently ranked in the Buffalo News Top Ten polls. The Red Raiders ended the season 13-12 overall, with a 5-6 record in league play. The season began with key non league victories over Lake Shore, Maryvale, and Bennett continued their solid play as they hit the mid way point of the season with key victories over ranked teams Timon/ St. Jude, St. Mary’s of Lancaster, and St. Joes. The Raiders stumbled down the stretch losing 5 of their last six games including a heart breaking loss to St. Mary’s of Lancaster at Canisius College in the first round of the Manhattan Cup Playoffs.
Corey made All Catholic for the fourth consecutive year and participated in the New York State Catholic Bowling Tournament. Jacob Lesinski and Ian Prechtl also qualified for the state tournament.
Hockey
When the club varsity started 0 – 2 – 2 the season did not look like it was going to be a remarkable one. Just before the Christmas tournament things started to click. The boys began to understand that playing together as a team would get them further than if they tried to play as individuals. Beginning with the Christmas tournament the team came into their own. The boys beat, amongst others, Jamestown, Maryvale and Southwest/Maplegrove to make it to the finals against Iroquois/Alden. The championship game was a hard fought game that the Red Raiders lost in overtime 3 - 2. Senior Shane Irwin and Freshman Matt Michalski were named to the all tournament team. For the rest of the season the team always fought hard in every game.Though the team’s goals were to make it to both Super Sunday and the State Playoffs we were only able to make it to the states after getting beat by Canisius in the semi-finals of the league playoffs to be eliminated from Super Sunday.
Bowling
The Saint Francis Varsity Bowling team finished its season with a record of 36 wins and 12 losses to finish in third place in a very competitive league. The Red Raiders took third place in the prestigious Festival of Lights Tournament and captured fourth place in the Martin Luther King Jr. Frontier Tournament. Senior Corey Wells led the team and the league in high average (222) high set (804 team record) and rolled a near perfect 298 game.
During the state playoffs the boys dominated their way into the finals out scoring their opponents 25 – 4. Both Goaltenders Shane Irwin and Junior Matt Hanley played some of their best games of the year to frustrate the competition with Hanley being rewarded with a shutout during the weekend. The finals was a rematch between St. Francis and Canisius. The Crusaders scored early in the first period to put the boys in an early hole. The play went the Red Raiders way the balance of the game, but they were unable to solve the Canisius goaltender. With time running out in the third period Tony Scaccia drove to the net and put the tying goal home to force overtime. Five minutes into overtime Kyle MacDonald was left alone in front of the Canisius net and put home the game winner to give St. Francis the State Championship. Matt Michalski was named tournament MVP. Overall record – 29 – 7 – 4
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Indoor Track & Field
This season marked the 10th year of the reinstitution of Indoor Track at St. Francis High School. Competing in the Western New York Indoor Track Federation, with over 30 member teams, St. Francis relays and individual athletes were consistently ranked in the Top Ten all season long. The Red Raiders were lead by Senior Captains Sean Redfield and Josh Galante, both 4 year participants of the Indoor program. Two other Seniors, Zach Dylik and Brandon Kowalski, also made important contributions as leaders of this young team. Out of the 50 members of the team, 35 were either Freshmen or Sophomores. Many of these younger athletes were Varsity competitors, and their efforts helped St. Francis to a 5th place finish(out of 32 teams) in the Western New York Varsity Challenge at Fredonia State on January 28, 2010. The young Red Raiders had their chance at the Freshmen/Sophomore Championships on January 19, 2010. The Sophomores finished 2nd (out of 30 teams) and the Freshmen were 3rd (out of 30 teams). Sophomore Dom Mendola won the Long Jump with a SFHS 10th grade record of 20’-2 1/4”. With additional hard work, SFHS will be a force to be reckoned with on the track this spring, and for years to come.
Swimming
The swim team participated in 8 duel meets and also several Invitational and tournaments that were new to the team this season. The team as a whole improved greatly
on their skill and technique; each individual swimmer improved their times for each of their individual events at the All Catholics meet. The qualifying swimmers that
Wrestling
The Saint Francis Red Raiders (11-17, 5-1) finished the regular season as the MMAA runner-up for the second year in a row. A team decimated by season-ending injuries for several veterans opened the door for many young wrestlers to gain valuable experience. The team was also able to find some surprise performers in the form of seniors who tried the sport for the first time. While the team fell short of its goals this season, there were many bright spots and it should not take long for the team to regain its championship form. Team Captain Brian Rogers worked all year with the personal goal of qualifying for the NYPHSAA tournament. For the third year in a row, Rogers finished 2nd at the CHSAA Catholic State Tournament. Rogers finished the season ranked 3rd in WNY at 145, and he defeated Section VI champion Jake Beichner of Williamsville East earlier in the season; however, the competition at a vastly improved Catholic state level has once again proven to be too strong. It would be unfair to characterize Rogers’s career by his final match of the season, though. He has proven to be one of the top performers in a long list of successful Red Raider grapplers. Rogers earned his third consecutive MMAA All-Catholic championship this season and was voted unanimously by the coaches of the MMAA as the league’s Most Outstanding Wrestler for his performance throughout the year. At the CHSAA tournament, Rogers was received the Ironman Award given to wrestlers who have placed in the top six at the CHSAA tournament in all four years of high school. With a 40-6 record this season (27 pins), Rogers became the all-time wins leader in Saint Francis history with 129, breaking former teammate Tim Willson’s mark of 126. Rogers also holds the single season record for wins with 47 during his junior year. His performance and leadership will no doubt be a model for all young Saint Francis wrestlers to follow.
Basketball, Bowling, Hockey, Indoor Track, Swimming, Wrestling
finished their season at the CHSAA Championship meet held in NYC had outstanding swim performances and personal bests for both individual and relay events.
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Baccalaureate & Graduation
Top Award Winners
Bill Greene ‘69 Fr. Leon Krop Alumni Recognition Award
Top Eight Award Winners: front row from left to right-Athlete of the Year Award-Adam D. Redden Man of the Year- Nicholas A. Desmone, Creativity Award-Kevin J. Cooley. Back row: President’s Recognition Award-Brenden J. Pieszak , Sportsmanship Award-Desmond H. Howard, Principals Recognition Award-William M. Cole III , Artist of the Year-Michael D. Barthel and St. Francis School Service Award-Stephen A. Tyrpak.
Valedictorian- Samuel T. Stahl
Mark Sullivan’86 Commencement Speaker
Salutatorian- Devon A. Monaco
Class of 2010 Earns more than $12 million in Scholarships and Institutional Aid The Guidance department of St. Francis High School reported that the 134 graduates of the class of 2010 have been awarded over $12 Million in Scholarships and Institutional Aid to further their education. 105 students received Advanced Designation Regents Diplomas of which 28 are Advanced Regents with Honors. 29 graduates received Regents Diplomas of which 2 were Regents with Honors.
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Class of 1960 Celebrates 50th Anniversary
Dad’s & Grads
Front row (l-r): Michael ’74 & Zachary Dylik, John ’70 & Stephen Tyrpak, Patrick, Sr. ’82 & Colin Howard. Second Row (l-r): Scott Diebold, Mark ’77 & Nicholas Desmone, Joseph ’77 & Matthew Emmerling, Step-dad Sean Obrochta ’90 & Joshua Rogers. Third row (l-r): Scott Diebold ’85, Elliott & Anthony ’79 Woyshner, Timothy & Michael ’78 Quinn, Mark Bartholomew. Fourth row (l-r): Stephen ’79 & Grant Garvin, William, Jr. ’86 & William, III Cole, Ralph ’72 & Jonathan Visano, Anthony Bartholomew ’80.
Class of 1960 Celebrates 50th Anniversary
Front row (l-r): Lawrence Buczkowski, Walter Krakowski, Edward Nowak, Ronald Szematowicz, Edward Boduch, Fred Zazycki, Fr. Michael Sajda, OFM Conv., President. Second Row (l-r): William Baran, Ralph Steger, Henry Borkowski , Stephen Aszkler, Anthony Compisi, Ronald Jablonski.
Faculty Retirements-over 100 years of service
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Ken Hunt has been more than just the disciplinarian at St. Francis High School. When he first came to St. Francis High School 33-years ago in 1977 he taught physical education (gym) and health. The next year he added his Athletic Training and First Aid class. He even coached freshman football. Hunt spent eleven years as a track coach and was in charge of the intramural athletics program, back in the days of racquet ball. He has served as Dean of Students for the past 13 years. What will he miss most about SFHS? “Helping kids to develop stronger character, being able to help mold and shape them so that they make better choices “What will he miss the least? “ Definitely the battles” said Hunt. Some downtime and trips are what he’s planning for retirement. “I’d like to visit other parts of the country.” As a certified Strength and Conditioning coach, he says he may indulge that passion and work part time at one the many gyms he is associated with. (He served as Strength & Conditioning Coach at SFHS for 20 years) Tim Ellis has been teaching at St. Francis High School since 1983- he’s taught Psychology, European History, US History & Government and Economics and Participation in Government. “I’ve never taught freshmen”, he chuckles “Maybe that’s why I’ve been here so long”. He was moderator of the Historical Society from 1985-2008. He smiles as he remembers the trips he took with students to Washington, DC, Baltimore, NYC and Gettysburg. He said he’s going to miss his colleagues the most. “These are some of the finest people I’ve ever met, and the students, they keep you young.” What he says he won’t miss is the paperwork. Oh, yeah, he said he’ll probably miss his buddy Tom O’Malley just a little bit. In his retirement he plans to relax a little and definitely spend more time with his grandson. He may write a bit and play the guitar a bit. (44 years ago, while he was a student at Timon he played with a band at a St. Francis dance- something he was able to relive during the battle of the bands this past April when he played with Jerry Shea, John Kiefer and his son Tim’92.
John Miskey has been teaching French at St. Francis High school since 1986. During his 24 years here he has been moderator of the French and Chess Clubs. In addition he was moderator of the Speech & Debate Club for 12 years. He says he’ll miss the sense of accomplishment he gets from teaching, “the possibility of having a positive impact on the life of a young person.” Heading out the door early everyday is something he won’t miss. What does he plan to do in his retirement? “Take care of the house, family and pets, and maybe write a couple of books.” Mary Knab has been teaching Global Studies 9 & 10 at St. Francis High School since 1998. She was moderator of the yearbook until a few years ago and moderator of the Mock Trial Team. She recently received the “Liberty Bell Award” for her work with Mock Trial and says she will continue to serve as moderator, even after she retires. “I’ll miss the kids the most”. What she won’t miss is, “getting up at 5:30 in the morning, especially Monday mornings”. Her retirement plans include babysitting her grandchild, traveling and coming back to volunteer at St. Francis. Don Hiller says he won’t miss the 50 miles he has to drive, each way, everyday to and from St. Francis. What he will miss are the students he’s been teaching Spanish to for the past 10 years, “they are fantastic”. He has been involved with the Spanish club and FYM for a bit when he first started in 2000. What does retirement have in store? “I’m going to continue with the Deaconate program (he is in his 3rd of 5 years of preparation in becoming a Deacon) travel a little and substitute teach at a school a little closer to home”.
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“Assisi Under The Stars� Celebrating 800 Years of the Franciscan Order May 1, 2010
justinian XXIX
Justinian XXIX was a HUGE success with net receipts of $175,700 (as of this printing of the Tau.) 516 guests were in attendance. A special thank you to all who made this evening possible. Co-chairs pictured above from left to right- Rosemary & Jim Biddle, Beth & Bill Berry, Kelly & Dennis Vacco.
NON-PROFIT ORG. US POSTAGE PAID Hamburg, New York PERMIT NO. 159
4129 Lake Shore Road * Athol Springs, NY 14010-0185 www.stfrancishigh.org
Save the Date
Alumni Association Golf Tournament Thursday, July 8, 2010 * Watch your mail for more information on other upcoming alumni events. Visit us on the web at www.stfrancishigh.org ALUMNI NEWS & NOTES……KEEP US INFORMED……… Please forward any Alumni News to Jerry Gorczyca’73, gorczycag@stfrancishigh.org St. Francis High School, 4129 Lake Shore Road, Athol Springs, NY, 14010 or e-mail Name ____________________________________________ Address __________________________________________ City ________________________ State _______ Zip Code __________ Grad Yr ______ Phone - Home________________________ Cell Phone_________________________Work ________________________ E-mail___________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________________________
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