Remembering - Benedictine High School

A Benedictine Community Publication Including St. Andrew Svorad Abbey and Benedictine High School
Winter 2008
Fall 2007
Remembering
Augie
Bossu
Editor’s Letter
A Tribute to Dedication...
H
ow do you pay tribute to men who dedicated their
lives to service? When we planned this issue of Ora Et Labora in the
fall, we decided to focus on how our students serve others and the impact this has in the community. We were
excited that along with the student profiles we could also
profile some of the many accomplishments of our alumni. We are fortunate to have an abundance of great stories to
tell and we were certain they would show the diversity and
depth of involvement of some extraordinary men. Just before we went to press before the holidays, we
were informed that Fr. Dominic would retire from his
teaching duties. How fitting, we thought, to include a
story on the amazing career of a man who dedicated his
life to education and leadership as a teacher, coach and
principal. No person served in the role as principal as
long as Fr. Dominic. So we slightly changed our editorial
to include his story. As final edits were being made during the Christmas/
New Year week, we learned of the passing of Coach Augie
Bossu just after midnight on January 1. His 53 years of
service to Benedictine is legendary. You will read in the
special section about Coach Bossu’s service to his country,
his family (at home and at Benedictine) and to his God.
So when we asked our printer to postpone our print
date, waive our late fees and other related costs and allow
us to include a section dedicated to our Coach, they were
happy to accommodate our request. In tribute to both Fr. Dominic and Coach Bossu, it
is only appropriate to share their stories of service, with
our current students. It is the examples of these men that
provide the foundation for which Benedictine exists as the
“Home of Champions.”
2
W E
A R E
B E N E D I C T I N E
It is somewhat ironic that Coach Bossu passed away
only a few days before the anniversary of the death of Joe
Rufus, the man coach Bossu preceded as football coach in
1955. Mr. Rufus passed away on January 3, 1996. Both
men are synonymous with Benedictine; Mr. Rufus as
football coach and athletic director and Coach Bossu for
his achievements in football and baseball. For more than
63 years, they were the face of Benedictine athletics. Currently the Board of Trustees and the Administrative Executive Committee are discussing several ideas to
memorialize the legacy of Coach Bossu and the Mission of the Home of Champions. This memorial would
provide an opportunity for the entire family community
of Benedictine to express our love and pride of this great
Benedictine icon. Some of the leading possibilities discussed include: new or renovated physical fitness facilities
on campus, student tuition assistance through the Augie
Bossu Scholarship Fund in the Endowment Trust, or
other initiatives that meet the wishes of the Bossu family.
More details on this subject will follow in the next issue of
Ora Et Labora.
And finally, this issue includes the financial information for the school. As with most Catholic high schools,
the financial health is determined partially by the generosity of the alumni and outside benefactors. While tuition
payments and Abbey support cover a percentage of the
operating costs, it is through the gifts of the alumni and
friends of Benedictine that scholarships and grants are
awarded to students. The economy is currently flat, yet
tuition and overall educational expenses continue to rise.
This makes an incredibly competitive situation even more
difficult, especially when the goal for recruitment for the
freshmen class is 150 students. Your continued support of
Benedictine is needed now more than ever to continue the
works of men like Fr. Dominic and Coach Bossu. – ORA
What’s Inside
Columns
Features
Abbot Clement.................................................. 28
Fr. Albert........................................................... 18
Mr. Miroglota..................................................... 40
Editors Note...................................................... 2
4 Celebrating a Legend
We remember the extraordinary
commitment of Coach Augie Bossu to
Benedictine High School
Abbey News
Oblate Corner..........................................................29
Remembering Tiso............................................ 30
School News
17 End of an Era
Looking back on the leadership of Fr.
Dominic as he retires after four decades of
service to BHS.
Bengal Briefs.................................................... 33
Alumni News
35 Men of Service
Class Notes and Profiles................................... 43
In His Own Write - Terry Pluto ‘73....................... 45
Family Tradition - Zulandt Brothers..................... 46
Deceased Alumni.............................................. 47
Profiles of three students who help make
Benedictine the “Home of Champions”
off the field.
18 Financial Report ’06-’07
30
46
A look at the financial health of Benedictine
and at those whose contributions provide
support for current “Men of Benedictine.”
The Ora Et Labora is published three times per year by the Benedictine
Order of Cleveland, Benedictine High School and its Alumni Association.
Abbot Clement Zeleznik, OSB ’50
Chancellor
Rev. Albert Marflak, OSB ’65
President
Mr. Sal Miroglotta
Prinicipal/Director of Education
Mary Reilly
Marketing Director
Kieran Patton
Admissions Director
Tom Zagorski ’03
Alumni Coordinator
Tony Russ ’66
Athletic Director
Ora Staff
Randy Loeser ’91
Publisher
Joseph Kalinowski
Art Director
Contributors
Rev. Michael Brunovsky, OSB,
Wally Mieskoski ’71, Al Schmiederer,
Terry Pluto ’73, Fr. Gerard Gonda ’73,
Adam Reeves ’08, John Fox ’08, Steve
Elliot ’08, Pat Hyland, Frank Andorka
W W W . C B H S . N E T
3
Celebrating a Legend...
Coach
Augie
Bossu
• 5 decades of coaching
• 991 total victories between football and baseball
• 9 City Championship Titles
• 4 State Championship Titles
• 61 years of marriage
• 1,000s of immeasurable impressions made on the “Men of Benedictine”
Coach Bossu was priceless -- JK ’92
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Noble Coach’s
Life was a Sermon
Former Benedictine leader Bossu dies at 91
by Terry Pluto ’73
The following article appeared on the front page of the
Cleveland Plain Dealer. It was written by Terry Pluto,
an award winning journalist, author and Benedictine
graduate. It is reprinted here in tribute to Coach Bossu
and his family.
W
One of the greatest high school coaches ever was a milkman for
20 summers, and seemed grateful to have the job. Later, he was in
charge of the cleanup crew at SeaWorld in Aurora. He was born
in 1916, grew up during the Roaring ‘20s, the Depression of the
1930s, played for Elmer Layden at Notre Dame, and was an Army
major during World War II. He was married for 61 years, spending
most of his life in a humble house in Maple Heights.
ednesday, January 02, 2008
When I heard that “Coach died” from a message on
my phone, I knew it was Augie Bossu. To generations
of us from Benedictine High, it didn’t matter how many men we
played for -- there was only one Coach.
He coached at Benedictine from 1953 until March of 1994.
He was the football and baseball coach who went to early Mass
before school, every day. In his strolls around the campus of the
East Side inner-city school, Bossu seemed to have silent conversations with God. Or as former Benedictine football coach Al Hodakievic once told me, “Coach walks with the Lord.”
It was Hodakievic who replaced Bossu as varsity coach in 1994,
and Bossu stunned Hodakievic by asking his former player if it
would be OK to scout the Bengals’ future opponents. That was a
blessing from the 78-year-old coach to the young man taking his
place. It was an example of the humility, the servant’s heart that
beat so strong in this man’s chest for so long.
When Bossu died on the first day of 2008 at the age of 91, most
of us who played for him wouldn’t have been surprised if God had
sent a chariot down to take him straight to heaven. He was not a
man who preached, but his life was a sermon.
Or as St. Francis of Assisi said, “We should speak the gospel
always, but only when necessary, use words.”
“Other than my father, I admired Coach more than anyone,”
said Pat Moriarty, who played for Bossu in the early 1970s.
Now a vice president of the Baltimore Ravens who also played
for the Cleveland Browns in the 1970s, Moriarty fought back tears
as he talked about Bossu.
“To just call him a football coach is an injustice,” he said.
Only he didn’t really retire, he just stepped down as varsity football coach, and then took over the freshman team. He did that job
until 2006. He coached his sons, then he coached his grandson.
When it comes to Coach Bossu, there are so many memories.
He seemed to wear the same sweaters, the same pants, the same
black coaching shoes for decades. He drove a yellow station wagon
for 10 years . . . 20 years . . . who knows? But those who remember
that car recall how it had no radio, no automatic transmission, no
air conditioning, and we weren’t even sure if it had heat. It just ran,
forever.
He wrote his practice plans on the back of the school announcements passed out each morning. Don’t waste the paper. He used
pencils until they were about the size of his pinkie finger. He sewed
up uniforms, raked and lined the baseball fields before games. As
an 80-something freshman football coach, he sometimes filled the
practice water bottles when the manager was not around.
“He taught us humility. He taught us to keep life simple. He certainly didn’t have much money, but he was a noble man because he
didn’t put his own interest first.”
He was the man who once used the Lord’s name in vain in front
of his team. According to longtime Benedictine coach Tony Russ,
Bossu then made the sign of the cross while apologizing to the
players and to God.
Bossu was a man of few words and little money, raising eight
children on a Catholic high school salary. All eight graduated from
college, six earning post-graduate degrees.
Most of the time, the worst words from his lips were, “Hell’s
bells, boys . . . you’re better than that.”
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a couple of simple schemes on defense. As a baseball coach, it was
fundamentals, fundamentals and more fundamentals. Throw
strikes. Throw the ball to the right base. Don’t throw your helmet
or bat when you make an out.
When I was a senior, he asked me to teach a sophomore second
baseman how to pivot on the double play. He had my friend, senior
pitcher Rick Laba, teach younger pitchers a pickoff move. He was
a teacher who taught others to teach, and it’s why so many of us
wanted to please him.
He taught freshman English. He taught health and physical
education. He sold tickets at the basketball games. He’d sometimes
help sweep up the court.
He won so many games for so many decades, his combined
record for baseball and football was 991-430-20. He’s in the Ohio
High School coaches Hall of Fame for both football and baseball.
He’s also in the National High School Sports Hall of Fame.
When I was inducted into Benedictine’s Hall of Honors, I gave
a brief speech about how I was a lousy athlete, and I batted .231 as
a senior with no extra-base hits -- but Coach Bossu still used me in
most of the games. I said that was a tremendous example of Christian charity and mercy.
Afterward, he seemed a little distressed. He pulled me aside and
said: “You weren’t that bad. I played you because I needed you.”
As I write those words now, there are tears in my eyes. It was one
of the best things anyone ever said to me.
© 2008 The Plain Dealer. All rights reserved. Reprinted with permission.
Modern coaches would have been underwhelmed by his approach. In football, there were about eight basic plays on offense,
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Legendary Coach
Bossu Dies at 91
“Principles were never sacrificed for the sake of winning.”
by Wally Mieskoski ’71
T
hat was the headline in The Plain Dealer in 1979 when
Coach Bossu was selected by his peers as Greater Cleveland’s outstanding high school football coach.
Spoken by Vic Hanchuk, a coaching rival from both John F.
Kennedy and John Marshall High Schools, those words also summarize the essence of Coach August Francis Bossu.
Of course, the news that Bossu was named the top coach in the
area was no surprise to those who had been connected with Benedictine High School. It only made more public the obvious choice.
Augie Bossu died of complications from pneumonia just about
one hour into the New Year of 2008 at his home in Maple Heights,
Ohio. He was 91 years old. Bossu was hospitalized just before
Christmas. When the doctors told Bossu that there was nothing more that they could do for him, he wanted to go back to his
home.
A funeral Mass was held at St. Andrew Abbey Church on the
Benedictine campus where more than 400 attended the service
and a hundred or more watched the simulcast being broadcast
into Trueman Memorial Fieldhouse on Saturday January 5. He is
buried at All Saints Cemetery in Northfield.
Bossu is survived by his wife of 61 years, Florence, sons Frank
and Steve, daughters Jean Marie, Mary Louise, Virginia, Cecilia,
Theresa and Angela.
Let the record show that in football at Benedictine, Coach Bossu
won four state titles, nine city titles, and tied for two others. His
teams qualified for the state playoffs eight times. In baseball, his
record is just as lofty with a 681-300 mark. He made five trips to
the state finals and won seven city titles.
When he stepped down as Benedictine’s head football coach on
March 1, 1994, Bossu was Ohio’s winningest coach. His overall
record in Ohio was 308-127-18. At Benedictine, Bossu compiled a
275-109-15 mark from 1955-1993. In his “retirement” he coached
the Bengals freshman football team until 2006. Even at that level,
he continued to be successful with a number of undefeated teams.
He is a member of the Ohio High School Football Coaches
Hall of Fame and the Ohio High School Baseball Coaches Hall
of Fame. In 1988, along with National Football League stars Len
Dawson and Jim Taylor, Bossu gained entry into the National
High School Sports Hall of Fame.
On September 28, 2002, Benedictine High School retired jersey
number “50” in a ceremony of appreciation for Bossu’s 50 years of
service to the school to that time.
“Historic eras are normally defined by great events or times.
There are not many people who can define an era, but Coach
Bossu was one of the rare men who could accomplish that feat,”
said Andy Hudak ’60, long-time Benedictine football statistician.
Bossu has one of the most impressive records in the Plain Dealer
City Championship - the Charity Game - played on Thanksgiving
Day at the old Cleveland Municipal Stadium.
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impressed by the respect he commanded
from his players. You don’t get that kind of
respect unless you earn it and Augie certainly
did both on and off the field. Augie’s obituary said he had 6 daughters and 2 sons, but
you can add another 1,000-plus “sons” he
coached over the years! To many of them,
they feel like they’ve lost a father,” said
Szuch.
Sometimes the classroom was not the
only place where Bossu taught his students.
Ted Hetman ’68 recalled an incident during
a game in which he played. “I remember we
ran a counter play so well that the referee
blew the whistle somewhere near the line of
scrimmage only to have our halfback trotting
out of the end zone with the football for
what should have been a touchdown.”
Dan Coughlin wrote in the Lake County News Herald when
Bossu stepped down, that the Stadium was like a home field for
Benedictine. As a matter of fact, Coughlin wrote, “Bossu won more
games at the Stadium in November than Bill Belichick,” who was
the beleaguered Cleveland Browns head coach at that time.
While the Bengals won many more games than they lost when
Bossu coached, Mike Quinn ’64, who was the statistician in his
years in high school said, “He also taught us to lose. True enough
that did not happen often. But when it did, his teams knew how to
accept defeat with class.”
Leading a Catholic life
More than the championship records that Bossu produced, he will
be remembered as a great teacher, coach and gentleman.
“Coach Bossu was a outstanding example of a Catholic gentleman and teacher,” said Richard Taricska ’65, former Benedictine
Alumni Association president. “He was a great man who helped
establish the character of Cleveland area high school football.”
Dave Kornatowski ’82 recalls that Bossu offered support to him
long after playing for the Coach. “I was a good, not great, player on
two state championship teams in 1980 and 1981,” said Kornatowski. “It was 15 years after I graduated from Benedictine when my
Dad died. I was so touched when Coach Bossu came to the wake
to offer his condolences to our family.”
While a student at Benedictine, John Szuch ’55 was a cheerleader
for the Bengals football team. Szuch is a past Benedictine football
historian but his story involves Bossu’s “other” sport – baseball.
“Coaching football is where Augie receives most of his credit,
but for me it would have to be his 1978 Benedictine State runnerup baseball team. My oldest son, John J. was the starting catcher
on that team and I had the opportunity to see almost every game
that season. I was able to watch Augie in action up close. I was
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“The misdirection was executed so perfectly that the official was completely fooled.
The real impact of the play was when Augie never disputed the call
with the official and went on to send in the next play.”
“It seemed as though players who at first thought they were
robbed by the call respected the coach’s decision not to bemoan
their fate and get on with the game. Yes, it’s only a game – but a
lesson in life had been learned,” said Hetman.
Joe Rosalina ’91 remembers that players “would live for that
little nod, that little wink, that ‘Atta boy’ he would give you in
practice or in a game for a job well-done. And you never forgot
about the prayers at the Grotto.”
There was one time when Ron Grosel ’88 said he felt like Coach
Bossu seemed to have a direct line to the Man Upstairs. “The
Bengals were preparing for a big game on an overcast day in which
it was supposed to rain. As the sky grew darker and was about to
storm, Coach Bossu looked up to the heavens and muttered something. Shortly after, the sun peered through the clouds and the rain
held off.”
Summing up the feelings for Coach Bossu of many Benedictine
alums, Bill Thomas ’64 wrote, “I believe we were in the presence of
a saint when we were with him.”
Practice, Practice, Practice
Hetman chuckled as he recalled a particular practice session in October 1967. “It was a cold and rainy day. The weather was just miserable and the team was struggling through a lackluster season.”
“We were going over one specific play repeatedly because our
center kept missing his assignment. The team knew full well that
if we ran the play successfully we could call it a day and head for a
warm shower.”
“After yet another failed attempt, Coach Bossu confronted the
center (John Kness ’69) with the question, “Do you enjoy being
out here in the cold rain?” Without hesitation, John respectfully
replied, “Yes, Coach.” Well, Coach Bossu paused for a few seconds
and you could feel the silence. Then, suddenly, he burst out laughing, turned to his players and said, “Hells Bells, that’s why we’re
out here, because John likes it.”
Ron Torda ’64, co-captain of the 1963 City Championship
team, said, “No one will ever forget the 100-yard dashes during
practice and the repetitious running of plays until they were perfect. The hot August days didn’t make it any easier.”
The intangibles were an important
part of the teaching methods used by
Bossu. “Coach Bossu’s biggest accomplishment cannot be measured in wins
and losses, but in the way he built pride,
teamwork and character in the thousands of students and players who have
passed through the hallways of Benedictine High School. He taught us how
to be humble in victory and gracious in
defeat. There was no better teacher,” said
John DiPaola ’78.
For Coach Bossu there were few
details left to chance. “For an upcoming
game with rain in the weather forecast,
we practiced with footballs that had
been soaked in water buckets,” said Rosalina, who played quarterback. “Coach
wanted to simulate game conditions as
much as possible.”
Kornatowski remembers another Bossu
story. “When I was a junior in 1980, I
had to deliver a note to Coach Bossu early
in the morning. We had our first game
that weekend, and the opponent was considered a pushover. That did
not faze Coach. When I handed him the note, I noticed that he was
studying index cards of that opponent’s defensive “looks.” As it turned
out we won the game 48-0 but it showed me how Coach was always
prepared for every game no matter the opponent.”
Greg Roscoe ’82 recalls a compliment from Coach Bossu that
remains with him today. “In the middle of one-on-one drills during a hot two-a-day session, I was going against a young man that
Coach Bossu pulled aside and told him that he’d better step it up
because he was facing a “football player” on the other side. Being
called a “football player” by Coach made it the most meaningful
acknowledgment I ever got in my football career.”
Cathedral Latin’s loss is Benedictine’s gain
Bossu arrived at Benedictine in September 1953 from our old rival
Cathedral Latin School. Despite a 33-18-3 record in football for
the Lions from 1947-52, Bossu was dismissed from “the school
down the hill.”
Even after all these years, Bossu and his wife Florence were still
not sure the exact reason for his release.
Circumstances surrounding his dismissal from Latin and his
arrival at Benedictine may have been lost to history, but a few theories abound.
Dan Coughlin wrote in 1993 in the News Herald, “In 1952, an impatient Cathedral Latin School fired Augie Bossu after six seasons because
he could not beat Benedictine, having lost five straight times. Overlooked was the fact that hardly anybody
beat Benedictine.”
Jack Mulligan, a Cathedral Latin grad
living in Akron, said, “I was told in the
1950’s that Benedictine hired him away
from us for an extra $500 more per year.
If true, that deal compares with the purchase of Manhattan from the Indians.”
While at Benedictine, Bossu had a
record against the Lions of 16-6-1.
Bossu was raised as an only child in
Monongahela, Pennsylvania and was a
guard on the University of Notre Dame’s
1938 national championship team
coached by Elmer Layden. Bossu coached
for one season at Mineola, (New York)
Chaminade High School in 1940 with a
2-3-2 record.
During World War II, Bossu served
in the Army Signal Corps, attaining the
rank of major. After the war, he earned a
master’s degree at Stanford University.
Coming to Cleveland, Bossu coached at Cathedral Latin School.
He then came to Benedictine in 1953 to serve as an assistant to Joe
Rufus before taking the head coaching job in 1955.
Many Benedictine students recall Coach Bossu making his
prayerful visits to the Marian Grotto on campus. It was – and still
is - a tradition to visit the Grotto before and after every practice
and before and after every game.
“With his great devotion to Our Lady, it seems only natural that he
would leave us on a Holy Day dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary,
Mother of God,” said Bernie Wiederwohl ’75, who handled the football stats and was the baseball statistics-manager in the early 1970’s.
It is also appropriate that he spent more than 50 years at Benedictine High School, where the school colors, chosen early in our school’s
history, are the light blue and white of Our Blessed Mother.
Whether you played for Bossu, had him as a teacher in class or
were just a student during his years at Benedictine, he was simply
the man we called “Coach”…. our beloved “Coach.”
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Remembering
“Coach...”
“We are here to honor the man most of us knew as Coach.’’
- Bishop Roger Gries (opening remarks at Coach Augie Bossu’s funeral service 01/05/08)
S
eeing Coach Bossu attend daily Mass in the school chapel
made an indelible impression on me, one that I have tried
to emulate many times in my life. If we have not practiced
what we have learned then we have learned nothing.
Lenny Toth ‘70
I
have several Coach Bossu memories, but I must say one of them
separates from the rest. The first day of football practice coach
calls me over (by name of course) and introduces himself. He told
me that he had a “special play” designed just for me, but I had to
earn it and sell it. It wasn’t a secret to anyone that Coach Bossu
loved to run ball; in fact that’s all you did for the first 2-3 weeks
of practice (fullback traps). After numerous reps of the running
game, he called my name over. He said that it was time that we
learned the “special play.” The play was Pro Right Z reverse PASS.
Coach expressed that I was the one who made this play; if I sold
it he assured me a touchdown. Week after week we ran this play
in practice, but never in the games. Coach told me that we had to
perfect it for it to work. Finally, the last game of the season against
St. Ed’s he told me that the time had come now SELL IT he said.
In a tie game late in the fourth quarter Coach called the Z reverse
pass. After selling the run, the ball was thrown to me with no defender within 15 yards of me. TOUCHDOWN! I saw coach about
six years later. He just looked at me and laughed, saying “I have
never seen someone so wide open!”
My junior year I stopped into the chapel to say a few prayers before mid-term exams. Coach stepped up behind me before leaving
and placed his hand on my shoulder. He told me not to worry, do
my best and that he would say a prayer for me.
During a baseball game later that year I was giving up some cheap
hits against Lake Catholic. I complained about it on the bench and
asked a teammate what I needed to do to have a quick inning. Coach
looked at me and said “Don’t complain about it, you can’t change it.
Just keep doing your job, make good pitches and your teammate will
take care of the rest.” We won in extra innings.
As I was walking back to my seat after receiving my diploma
during graduation in 1984, Coach turned to my father and told
him “You did a good job.” My Dad never forgot that.
Terry Heil ‘84
A
lthough I never knew him personally, I will remember Coach
Bossu’s complete dedication to Benedictine and his guys. I
remember seeing him at every football game I could attend. He
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walked back and forth, eyeing the game like he wanted to play the
game himself with his team.
n the fall of 1981 I was a member of the football team. On the
day the dressing list was posted for the first game, my name
didn’t appear. I went into the coach’s office to speak to Coach
Bossu. He simply stated that I didn’t make it this time around.
These were times when everyone who continued to participate
didn’t get cut from the team. I had been to every double session
and every practice. I realized I really didn’t have the football build
or skill sets, but most of my close friends were involved in athletics. I was a transfer student from Cathedral Latin after it closed
in 1979. I told coach Bossu that I wasn’t quitting but as track was
my best sport that I was going to try cross country as a way to be
better prepared for the ‘82 track season. Coach Bossu shook my
hand that day and encouraged me to continue to work hard. From
that day forward he spoke to me in passing with a respect that
he had for me as a maturing young man and athlete. Each time I
greeted him I gave him the ultimate respect as a man, a coach and
a mentor. I am convinced that I made the right decision and it was
supported by Coach Bossu: I anchored the 4x880 relay team that
advanced to the state finals in 1982.
Kevin A. Johnson ‘82
I
G
od puts many people into each of our lives. Some of them
demonstrate everything we never want to be. Others show us
bits and pieces of goodness, while a chosen few provide us with exemplary examples of what being a Christian is. Coach Bossu is that
man. When I received a phone call informing me of Coach Bossu’s
death, I replied, “Coach is not dead. He lives through each of us
that have modeled our behavior after his. The spirit, the courage,
the respect and his mannerly treatment toward us all, will always
be a part of who we are. We shall each pass this on to our children,
and in turn, to the generations that follow. Coach is a legend. Legends never die. Thanks Coach, I am a
better man because of you.
Ron Ganim, #90 ’63
H
e was a great coach in the classroom of life. He was a leader by
example and was truly the number one man of Benedictine.
May God rest his soul.
Dale Robertson
I
A
remember Coach Bossu as a teacher and a leader. He was the
perfect role model for young Catholic males.
thought comes to mind of a football practice. I blocked a kick
and he looked at me and said, “Costa, now go pick up the
ball.” He will be missed.
remember back in 1974-75 as gym ended, I would enjoy staying to
climb ropes and chat with Coach Bossu as he used the wooden ladder bars to stretch. He was at that time to me, a man with few words,
but his words were direct and honest. I will miss him.
Mike Carpinelli ’77
I
I
n the early ’60s Augie had two assistants - Chuck Reynolds and
Tom Pacl. Chuck had the duty of driving the team bus to practice.
One cold day the team was coming back from practice at Woodland
Hills Park. It was a good practice in preparation to play St. Ignatius in
the City Championship game at Cleveland Municipal Stadium. As it
happened, the brakes didn’t engage and the bus went onto a lawn in
front of a house on East Boulevard. Silence was the order of the day
as the bus rolled onto the property and lawn. All you could hear was
Augie yelling, “Hell’s Bells.” End of story.
Tom Pacl, reporter.
R
oger J. Miller ’63 and I did not play sports at BHS. In fact,
Roger was chubby and I was thin. However, we were inspired
by Coach Bossu`s dignity and leadership and his demand for respect and discipline both as a coach and as a teacher.
When we both went on to Miami University (OH) we were
involved in campus leadership. Roger was the first elected black
president of Miami’s Interfraternity Council (1967) and I was
first trombone and elected vice president of Miami’s 250-member
marching band (1968). To put this in perspective, the “Harvard of
the Midwest” had 10,000-plus students of which 100 were black.
As Roger (now deceased) and I used to say while at Miami...it takes
a Bengal to lead ’em. Now I realize it took a Bossu-inspired Bengal
to lead ’em! God bless coach Bossu!
Clint Simmons ’65
I
had Coach Bossu for phys-ed class in 1966-67. Although I’m not
a jock or even average phys-ed wise, Coach never made me feel
less of a student or person, and I’ll remember this and him the rest
of my life. My family’s prayers go to the Bossu family for their loss.
Coach no longer needs our help. Rest in peace Coach, and thank
you for touching my life.
Joe Konecny ’68
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I
joined the Benedictine Family in 1979, after Cathedral Latin
closed. When I committed to transfer to Benedictine, I knew
little, if anything, about Coach Bossu.
I remember vividly when he greeted me as I walked into the gym
the first day of football practice that summer. I was self-conscious
and quite small, weighing only about 100 lbs., and I was seriously
doubting whether I had made the right decision to go to BHS.
When Coach spoke with me that first time, however, I felt huge.
His greeting was simple and sincere, with words of support and
encouragement. It was as though he knew exactly how small I really felt. While others looked with skepticism because of my size, it
was as though he saw a diamond inside. I knew immediately that I
was in the right place.
I am honored to have played offensive center on two of Coach
Bossu’s state championship teams in 1980 and 1981. Given my size,
which was less than 135 pounds as a senior, no other Clevelandarea high school coach likely would have even given me a real shot.
He trusted me, and he gave me a meaningful chance to shine.
He was patient, and confident. His faith was contagious. He
taught persistence, and hard work. Coach stressed the fundamentals, and had a way of encouraging you to excel without saying a
word. He was an amazing teacher, who respected everyone. He
promoted teamwork and sportsmanship, fellowship, honesty, and
respect. Coach Bossu was a gentleman.
God led me to Coach, and Coach guided me down the right
path. Through his love of the game, and his simple and humble
lessons, he taught you about life.
I attribute my confidence, success, and most importantly my
faith, to Coach. For that, I am most grateful.
Andy Natale, #51, ’82
I
remember how excited I would get when attending football
games and someone would let us know that Coach was coming
to the game. Imagine the excitement in heaven when word spread
that “Augie’s coming.” Rest in peace, Coach.
y son, Evan Gulliford, who is now a junior at Benedictine,
participated in freshman football and became acquainted
with Coach Bossu during this football season. He was most
impressed with Coach Bossu’s tenacity to continue to coach and
mentor the men of Benedictine. He considered it an honor and
privilege to have known Coach Bossu and to be able to have
learned from such a great man. Thank you, Bossu family, for sharing such a wonderful man with the Benedictine family.
hen our son Brian (Class of 1999) played baseball under
Coach Bossu there was a baseball game that caused the team
bus to arrive back at Benedictine late. As a result Brian missed the
after-hours school bus for his ride home. Forty-five minutes later
Coach Bossu pulled up in our driveway and dropped Brian off. I
greeted Coach and I asked him why he brought Brian home. He
said the late school bus transportation left and he didn’t want us to
have to come down to Benedictine to pick my son up. The next day
I saw Coach Bossu and wanted to give him gas money for the favor
he did for me. Coach would not accept it and said it could be better
spent elsewhere.
Tony and Patty Legan
M
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oach Bossu was one of the most influential people in my life.
He taught every one of us to act with dignity, respect and the
value of hard work. Yet, he never once lectured us on those things.
It was the way he lived and we all learned from his example. I
always remember how we put in plays at practice. Start with the
most important elements first, master those and then add more
complex details. I use that lesson nearly every day. One thing that
always made us chuckle about Coach was the way he attempted
to curse when he got mad. It was something like- damn it to hell,
gosh almighty!
I will always be proud to be known as one of Augie’s Boys.
Mike Piascik ’69
T
he Rini family has been associated with Benedictine ever since
the early 1950s, about the time Coach began his career at the
school. My brothers, nephews and I had the privilege of playing
football and baseball for Coach and witnessed his success as an
assistant to Joe Rufus, head coach, coach of numerous championship teams and then to his status of legend. Not only did off-tackle
right, off-tackle left and “hut-to-hike” remain constant in the 50s,
60s, 70s, and 80s but so did Coach. He remained humble, dignified, competitive and the teacher of young men. While at Benedictine all of his players and students had the utmost respect for
Coach by the way he carried himself on the football field, baseball
diamond and classroom, but that respect grew even greater after we
left Benedictine, became men, had families and started our careers.
When you’re a young man trying to sort out what is really
important in your life you come to the realization that not only
was Augie a great coach he was a better man. Coach, by the way
he lived his life, demonstrated that he knew and lived his priorities - God, family, education, friendship and commitment. The
best coaching Coach Bossu ever did was teaching his players and
students how to live their lives the right way. To the Bossu family,
thank you for sharing your husband and father with the Benedictine family. We are all much better people for having Coach touch
our lives. May God bless you.
Bill Rini ’67
I
was a senior on the 1964 Benedictine varsity football team. We
were at Cleveland Stadium on Thanksgiving morning playing
St. Ignatius for the City Championship and the game was winding down with St. Ignatius beating us 48-6. I’m sure no one on
our team wanted to go across that field and shake our opponent’s
hands after this difficult loss. I was standing close to Coach Bossu
as the final gun went off when someone said to him, “Don’t even
shake his hand,” referring to St. Ignatius Coach John Wirtz. Coach
looked at that person with a hard stare and said “Naw!” He then
turned and walked across the field to shake Coach Wirtz’ hand and
congratulate him. Coach always said to be humble in victory and
gracious in defeat and he lived it out that Thanksgiving morning.
Konrad Kmetz ’65
D
uring my sophomore year at Benedictine I was student
manager for the 1966 varsity football team. That was the city
championship team that featured Larry Zelina and Jimmy Betts.
Both Coach Bossu and Athletic Director Joe Rufus asked me to
come back in 1967, but by then I had a car and a girlfriend so I
declined so I could “pursue my other interests.”
Flash forward to 1996. My younger son was playing freshman football for the Coach. The team had just finished a game at University
School. The players were walking towards the bus and the fans were
filtering out. I was walking near the sidelines when I saw Augie, who
was then 80 years old, picking up some of the team’s equipment.
“You need a hand coach?” He didn’t even look up. He just
shook his head and quietly said, “No, no, I’m fine.” Then he
stopped, looked at me, smiled and said, “You remember the old
days?”
After 30 years he still remembered my single season as a student
manager for one of his teams!
Dennis R. Sutcliffe ‘69
C
oach Bossu was a gentleman who exuded class and grace at
all times. I never played for him or went to Benedictine but
had the honor of him coaching my sons. He is a man whom I truly
admired from afar as his leadership qualities will never be matched
and I speak for my family that we are blessed he touched our lives.
We all now have an angel looking over us. Thanks, Coach Bossu.
Frank Bova
I
truly enjoyed playing baseball and football for Coach. Just being
around him gave you the feeling that you were a better person, it
was just his way. He got your best with the confidence he instilled
in you, with the fundamentals he thought and with the simple way
he taught it. After my senior year of football I received letters from
various schools to play at the next level, mostly small schools but a
couple large programs showed interest. I needed to make a decision
on what level to play on, and I sought Coach for that opinion, who
would know better? He said I should play at a small school as that
best suited my talents. As it turned out he was correct. I had a good
football career and education at Allegheny College. Looking back
I could have let my ego get the best of me and walked on at a big
school, but I listened to his advice, swallowed my pride and took
the route he pointed out to me. I am blessed to have known such a
man, coach and mentor.
Ken Deininger ’85
C
oach Bossu has always been a part of my daily living teaching
me how to be a true man of Benedictine. I will never forget
how he taught me to be a true sportsman and a good person.
Wayne Jasinski ‘59
F
or the Men of Benedictine, there will only be one Coach. That
individual was Augie Bossu. I attended BHS from 1960-64,
and had the honor to have Coach as my English teacher and eventually played for him on the 1963 City Championship team. You
knew he was upset when he would blurt out “Hell’s Bells,” that was
the extent of his display of a temper tantrum.
What I have always remembered and admired was his simplicity
and humility. The lessons he taught all of the students of BHS have
served me a lifetime. A fierce competitor, but he always taught us to
play hard but fair. He led by example in everything he did. Daily
Mass in the chapel, devotion to Mary, prayers at the grotto before
and after practice and games, the rosary on the way to a game,
taking the same route to the playing field, and teaching boys to
become men.
His influence paid dividends, during my career in the U.S. Army
taking care of the men assigned to my command. As on officer,
I was responsible for their health and welfare. The examples that
Coach Bossu provided in my youth is what I tried to emulate as an
adult. I don’t know if I ever truly mastered all of the skills and talent
that Coach Bossu possessed, but I have sure tried because of him.
Those of us who knew and played for him, and all of the rest of
the Men of Benedictine, have lost a very inspirational part of our
lives. My sympathy to his family for their loss, but let us celebrate
his contribution to the development of oh-so-many. He made men
of boys, and we were fortunate to have had the opportunity to
know and learn from Coach Augie Bossu.
Ernest F. Przybyla ’64
C
I
oach Bossu was a great man. He will always be remembered in
the Benedictine Family and he is now in a better place.
have many great memories of coach, some when I was a student
at Benedictine and others as a faculty member. One telling moment came as I just began teaching; the faculty was gathered at a
meeting in which we discussed several theoretical and hot topics
regarding education. It was a long meeting, hotly debated, and
there was little consensus. As a young teacher, I just wanted to get
out of there and teach. At the end of the meeting, coach said one
thing which rang true for everyone. He said, “The way I see it, if
we accept a kid here, we’ve got to do whatever we can to help him
succeed, wherever he’s at.” In a nutshell, that brought us down to
basics. He reminded us that, when all is said and done, it’s about
the kids. Debate over.
I think one measure of a man’s greatness is the effect he has
outside of his field. Coach’s effect went beyond football and
Benedictine to education and life itself, to students and schools and
professions everywhere.
One final note: whenever I saw coach, before I could ask about
him, he’d ask about me and my folks. One definition of a gentleman is “I am always second.”
Because he has influenced so many teachers and coaches, he has
also influenced the thousands of people they have taught as well.
He has been and still is a model and inspiration for all of us.
oach was a major influence, as were all the priests at Benedictine,
in the ultimate success I attained (mainly outside of my athletic
endeavors). As a varsity football athlete, and a member of the city
championship team of 1963, I will never forget his fairness, hard work,
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and the role model that he was. Although I left Cleveland in 1965, I’ve
always followed the Bengals and was always happy to hear about his
continuous involvement in BHS Sports. To have played under a legend
was a great honor. I speak for all my classmates when I say, God bless
him and my condolences to the family.
Bob Toth, Class President, ’65.
“H
M
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ells Bells” and “Damnit to hell” were probably the strongest thing he ever said, but that look some how said it all!
y prayers to the Bossu family on your recent loss.
John Vrtachnik ’68
oach was like my stepfather. I learned a lot about football,
baseball and life from coach. He worked us hard and made
sure we were ready to play with enthusiasm. We had to respect authority and our opponents. I really believe God loaned us an angel
and he is now back home with God. Thanks to God for his angel.
Coach had an unbelievable ability to bring out the best in his
students and athletes. He saw things in people that they didn’t see
in themselves. Coach did not have to scream and yell to get his
point across. A simple nod, wink, smile or shake of the head and
you knew what he was thinking.
Coach always led by example, and out of sheer respect, his students worked hard to please him. There was no greater let down for
me than if I got the sense that he was disappointed in me, whether
on or off the field. It motivated me to work harder.
When people find out that I graduated from Benedictine High
School, nine times out of 10, the first question out of their mouth
is “Did you play for coach Bossu?” My answer is always “I was honored to play for Coach.”
Mike Herbst ’85
C
oach Bossu’s biggest accomplishment cannot be measured
in wins and losses, but in the way he built pride, teamwork
and character in the thousands of students and players who have
passed through the halls of Benedictine High School. He taught
us how to be humble in victory and gracious in defeat. He taught
us the value of hard work and prayer and how those values can
make great things happen in football and life. He taught us how
to do more with less and how to win with our hearts and with our
minds. There was no better teacher. Other than my father and my
grandfather, no one has impacted my life more than Coach Bossu.
Although our coach is now gone, we remember all he taught us.
We will miss him.
hen my son was playing freshman football, I just about fell
over when I saw Coach Bossu walking out on to the field. All
I could think was, “That old guy is going to get hurt.” Then from
behind me a gentleman in his late 40s began yelling at the top of
his lungs, “Hey Coach, it’s me ...” Coach turned, raised his cane,
and let out such a cute laugh that a tear came to my eye. Then he
gave the players a real what-for for messing up the play he had just
given. What a man! He will be missed!
Lauren Douglas (Mom of Andrew Douglas ‘08)
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onest, loyal, dedicated, loving, caring, disciplined, stood for
the right things done the right way, humble (real sense of humility, driven by faith and his love of God and family). I can write
a novel but everyone that knew him and knows his family can tell
you the same thing. He epitomizes what “Men of Benedictine”
means. He helped you get to that point. He is a man you can’t help
but celebrate a wonderful life more than mourn a passing. We are
saddened because he is with God now and not with us. He will be
missed “Hell’s Bells” and “Damn it to hell.”
Hopefully we can start this thing all over when we get there with
him God willing.
erhaps the finest man I have ever had the privilege to know.
During the 1967 football season (one of the more challenging
years to have been our coach) we (the team) were waiting behind
the locker room door to be introduced to the school at a football
rally in the gym. Coach Bossu announced each senior player
individually and as my turn approached and I stood by the door
waiting to be announced I heard him say “The next player is probably the best kick-off coverage player in the history of the school
- John Mahr.” I was so stunned I had to be pushed from behind to
get through the door because I was frozen in my tracks. My daily
interface was with the line and special teams coaches. I was not a
star player and was not even a starter until my senior year. Coach
Bossu had all the requisite skills and talent set to be the marvelous
tactician and talent evaluator that he has always shown himself to
be. His abilities as a football coach are already legend. But it will
always be his immense heart and humanity that shall stay with me
forever. I am blessed to have had many successes in my life and
have been honored for various achievements. None, however, will
surpass that one brief moment when Coach Bossu took the time
and made the effort to make that one moment in that one year for
that one teen-age boy the proudest of my life.
“Hell’s Bells” - 40 years later it still provides me my greatest joy.
Thank you, Coach Bossu. You will always be in my heart.
P
P
laying varsity football for BHS under the guidance of Coach
Bossu was like playing for your Dad. I remember a game
played in the 1961 season against John Adams High School. We
were losing at half time 6-0. We got to the locker room and there
was a lot of commotion and yelling because we were not playing
up to our capabilities. Mr. Rufus was letting us know how he felt
about our execution during the first half. With all the noise, Coach
Bossu enters the locker room and says the worst thing that ever
came out of his mouth,”Hells Bells, you guys can play better than
that.” In a very organized manner he turns the blackboard around
to be viewed by his players. He begins drawing adjusted blocking
schemes to be used during the second half of the game. I remember
how quiet it got and how much respect we had for him. He told us
to get out there and play like we can. I felt like Dad just asked us to
give it our best effort. During the second half we played with more
emotion and came out victorious. To me, he portrayed a father
image through my days at BHS. His daily attendance at Mass and
the daily recitation of the Memorarum had a great effect on me.
The Prayer to Mary that was instilled in me during those years still
influences my daily life decisions. Thanks, Coach.
C
oach Bossu taught me the values of hard work, discipline, dedication and sportsmanship. He was tough
and fair. I learned that if you concentrate on fundamentals, it didn’t make any difference that your
opponent was bigger, stronger or faster.
S
orry to hear about the passing of the Coach.
He will forever be in the hearts and minds of
everyone who came in contact with him.
I was fortunate to play for him in ’60, ’61
and ’62. He made all players better and made
them reach heights they never dreamed
they could.
30 years after I graduated, I saw Coach coming
off the practice bus at the school and without a
hesitation he knew exactly who I was and called
me by my name. I find that utterly remarkable,
but you would think nothing else of this inspirational man.
I will never forget him. Thanks Coach for making
me a better individual
Sal Collura ’63
ext to my parents and brother, Coach Bossu has
been a large and positive influence in my life, my
morals, citizenship and career. The coach’s positive discipline and fatherly nudges in a moral direction has been with
me my entire life. I am who I am because of my parents, brother
and Coach Augie Bossu, all of whom I consider my immediate
family. My visit from my home in NJ to say a final “Thank you”
to Coach Bossu was both emotional and my duty for what he has
given me and passed through to my children.
A grateful student and player.
Dennis R Andrews PhD QB ’58-60
N
A
t the age of 7 I met coach Bossu. I was fortunate in living
close to the field where Benedictine practiced football. I’d
just walked down the hill behind our home to watch to Bengals. I
guess you could say I was their mascot during the1950s. Coach was
kind enough to allow Fr. Jerome to take me into their locker room
before, during and after the ball games. Going to Charity Games
at Municipal Stadium and being in the Cleveland Browns locker
room was almost heaven. My childhood during football season
with coach couldn’t have been better or more exciting.
In the mid ’60s I got the opportunity to play for coach and I once
again discovered that hill I used to walk down as a kid. He was
the man that motivated me to try and play this game. In my senior
year, he somehow persuaded someone at Xavier University to give
me a chance. I’d love to know how he got someone at XU to give
me a scholarship.
Years later, I would meet coach at various Benedictine functions. He
was always pleasant and cordial to me and my children and grandson.
I would end the conversations with “Coach, you are the greatest.” He
would proceed to argue with me about that statement. He would say
things like “Go on, get out of here.” Today, there is no argument –
Coach, you are the greatest! Thank you Coach!
Jerry Pilcavage ’66
Don’t cry because it’s over.
Smile because it happened.
–Theodor Seuss Geisel
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End of
an Era
Father Dominic Ends His Teaching Career at Benedictine
W
hen Father Dominic retired after first semester exams,
he left behind a legacy as a model for other Benedictine educators to follow — and scores of grateful
students and colleagues who worked with him during his nearly
40-year career with the school.
Father Dominic’s decision to retire was based on the lingering effects of both staph and strep infections that he contracted
from surgeries earlier in the year. He has been “very sick and very
tired,” and has been dealing with these conditions in addition to
his parish duties as administrator at St. Lawrence, where he says
daily Mass at 6 a.m.
The Garfield Heights native was an honor student and star
outfielder for the BHS varsity baseball team. After graduating from
Benedictine in 1960, he attended Notre Dame University, St. John
University and Boromeo College. He originally taught part-time
as a seminarian while he attended St. Mary Seminary and began
teaching full time in 1969. He was acting assistant principal by
1970, under Bishop Roger Gries, OSB, then Father Roger.
In 1977, Father Dominic took on the position of principal. He
served in this role for 17 years, from 1977 until 1994. His term is
the longest in Benedictine history.
“As principal, Father Dominic was truly a ‘headmaster,’ ”
English teacher Mark Francioli said. “He is a model of how to be
a Benedictine educator–a real listener, kind, even-tempered and
respectful of students, faculty and staff.”
Father Dominic was noted for having an organized, fair and
professional manner in his services, especially in his role as principal. And unlike most principals, Father Dominic taught part-time
throughout his 24-year tenure as an administrator. An avid sports
fan, Father Dominic also had successful stints coaching baseball
and cross country.
“He is extremely fair, kind and understanding,” said friend and associate
Father Gerard Gonda, OSB. “He never used authority to force people to
do things his way but knew how to use considerate persuasion.”
“I am lucky to have known Father Dom in many capacities,”
said English teacher and former student Ryan Ryzner ‘95.
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“As a teacher, he was very
knowledgeable, organized
and caring. As principal, he was warm, stern
and fair. As a colleague, he was helpful, professional and a great
example to follow.”
Many also remember Father Dominic as a man whose dedication to
Benedictine, and stability as a staff member, was, and still is, unique.
“He is the glue that has held the school together,” Mr. Francioli
said. “He brings all the various groups involved with Benedictine
together.”
Others vividly recall the notably open personality that Father
Dominic has, as well as his willingness to be involved in the lives
of other members of the Benedictine community.
“When I first arrived at Benedictine, I remember seeing Father
Dominic in his classroom that summer, almost every day preparing
for classes,” said current BHS Principal Sal Miroglotta. “I remember the warm welcome he offered to me, so much so that I dubbed
his room “Café Dominic,” simply because walking in there and
hearing his joyful greeting epitomized the spirit of hospitality that
I had heard so much about in reference to Benedictine. As brief as
my association with him has been, I will never forget that.”
“I always found him to be very approachable, and he is always
willing to take the time to listen,” Father Anselm Zupka, OSB,
said. “He is always following the lives of students in and out of
the classroom, even after they graduate. It’s a genuine appreciation
that comes from the heart.”
Students have found that this genuine interest and consideration for the school has made Father Dominic a teacher that
they highly respect.
“Of all the classes that I’ve taken at Benedictine, Father
Dominic’s class is one of my favorites,” senior Peter Wright said.
“History was always more than just a series of events, or a boring lecture; it was a personal experience. He can connect with
students at a personal level.”
The surgery, although physically draining, did not seem to alter
Father Dominic’s personality.
“Every day last year, even before his surgery, he would be in a
good mood,” junior David Zulandt said. “No matter what, he has a
smile on his face.”
Father Dominic’s classes will be filled in by Social Studies Department Head Nick Beyer and sophomore history teacher Michael
Fink after the break. But students and teachers alike are hopeful for
his possible return in the future.
“Father Dominic’s one of the best,” senior Chuck Tillie said. “Having him back here would be a great gift for the school.”
Father Gerard would also like to see Father Dominic back at the
school some day.
“It’s my hope that with the prayers of Benedictine’s faculty, staff
and students, that God may grant Father Dominic sufficient healing, so that he can resume an active role at Benedictine again.”
“They don’t make them like Father Dominic anymore,” said
Ryzner. “He will be missed around Benedictine but not forgotten.”
Father Dominic will be honored at the Blue & White Gala
this April. If you have a favorite Father Dominic story you
would like to share, please send it to us at [email protected].
W W W . C B H S . N E T
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2007
Annual Report
E
ach year in our annual report we devote a section
to report the operating results for the past fiscal
year (July 1 to June 30). This past years operating
budget shows a deficit of $140,746.00. It is important to
understand the nature of this deficit as well as financial
planning and goals looking ahead.
In fiscal year 2005-2006 we had operating results in
which revenues exceeded expense for a positive balance of
$267,833.00. However, in financial year 2004 -2005 the
operating results came in at a deficit of $45,500.00.
Father
Albert
Marflak, OSB
President
The greatest negative impact on last years budget
was enrollment. The finance committee of the board
of trustees, in consultation with the executive team
and admissions office, set a budgeted enrollment of 415
students. However, the mean enrollment for the year was
396 students. The shortfall of 19 students at $7,350.00
each for tuition equals a loss of revenues of $129,650.00
on budget. Additionally, financial aid increased from
$552,000.00 to $578,000.00. Cost per student as per state
enrollment reporting was $11,000.00.
Comparing some line items as listed the reduced
income from auxiliary programs is offset by reduced
expense in auxiliary programs. The reduced income in
transportation is due mainly to the loss of rental services
to other schools. Fund raising fell short of its budget goal
by $75,000.00 in the area of giving from individuals and
foundations. Fundraising expense also includes non-cash
debits of slightly over $54,000.00 due mainly to endowment pledge write-offs and depreciation. Expense to
facilities was decreased $30,000.00 from year to year by
holding off on building and site improvements. Additionally, utility expenses decreased by $35,000.00 from year to
year. The general and administrative expense rose mainly
due to increase in wages, benefits and health insurance.
Financial stability is an incremental process that can be
directly measured in two fundamental sectors, namely
enrollment and fund raising. Our enrollment campaign to
achieve an annual incoming freshmen class of 150 students is
the purpose of the “We Are Benedictine” initiative begun in
the spring of 2007. This is a public relations, marketing and
recruitment effort that must continue year to year. Realistically, it is a high expectation to move from an incoming class
of 115 (2007-08) to 150 in one year. Nevertheless, we must
remain true to the vision of this goal.
In analyzing enrollment schedules, and factoring an
attrition range of 4 and 8% we can expect the following scenarios: with a freshmen enrollment of 150, total
enrollment for 2008-09 will be from 431 to 443, and
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rise to a range of 500 to 563 in five years; with freshmen
enrollment of 125, total enrollment for 2008-09 will be
from 406 to 418 and in five years from 418 to 475; with
freshmen enrollment of 100, total enrollment for 2008-09
will be 381 to 393 and in five years from 335 to 375.
With many working diligently to promote our “We Are
Benedictine” initiative I wish particularly to express appreciation and thankfulness to Ed Stevens of Stevens Baron Communications as leader of this team, as well as, Randy Loeser
’91, of Questex Media Group Inc., the new editor of our Ora
et Labora magazine. Additionally, I wish to thank our alumni
association and parent boosters for their support, and our
recruitment team leaders Kieran Patton and Mary Reilly.
In the area of fund raising, over the past five months,
we have experienced a complete turnover of personnel
in the department of institutional advancement. Karen
Stroh, advancement director, retired. Ann Beltz, special
events and data base manager, as well as Lori Conley,
alumni and events coordinator, left to take other employment offers. These positions have now been filled by
highly competent personnel. Joseph Marino,’78, whose
son is a freshman at Benedictine, is now our director
of advancement. Gloria Litwinowicz, with significant
experience in fund raising and computer programs, is
coordinator of special events and data base manager.
Patricia Cornacchione, whose son is a 2004 graduate, is
our interim alumni coordinator. Additionally, Genevieve
Zagorski, whose brother Tom is Mr. Benedictine graduate
of 2003, is full-time assistant to the advancement and admissions departments. Significant planning is taking place
to increase fund raising in annual giving, special events,
grants, endowment trust and estate planning.
The “We Are Benedictine” maxim encompasses our
identity as the Home of Champions. To achieve our goal
of financial stability it is necessary for all reading this to
become engaged in these areas, to own and continue our
identity as the “Home of Champions.” Financial stability for an educational institution such as Benedictine is
primarily founded on the commitment of time, talent and
treasure by loyal alumni to their alma mater. As alumni,
our continued commitment to Benedictine is not only to
Benedictine’s future growth, but has its most immediate
and direct impact on today’s students. I invite you to visit
our alma mater this year and see today’s Men of Benedictine. Your generosity makes it possible for them to be a
part of the Benedictine experience today which was yours
yesterday. I quote from the closing of my letter in the last
edition, “The future [and present] of Benedictine is for
each one of us a choice. It is in our collective experience to
chose to create the Benedictine of [today, and] the future.”
OPERATING RESULTS 2006 - 2007
BENEDICTINE HIGH SCHOOL • Annual Report • July 1, 2006 - June 30, 2007
Tuition & Fees.....................................$2,338,796
Auxiliary programs...............................$131,978
Transportation.....................................$159,787
Donations from Fund-raising...............$902,295
Donation from St. Andrews Abbey........$308,828
Investment income / Capital Gains.....$301,239
Other..................................................$160,094
TOTAL REVENUES........................$4,303,017
Tuition & Fees
Auxiliary programs
Transportation
Donation from St. Andrews Abbey
Donations from Fund-raising
Investment income / Captial Gains
Other
REVENUES
21%
Academic Programs
Auxiliary Programs
Transportation
General Administrative
Faciilities
Fundraising
54%
7%
4%
Program Services
Academic programs............................$2,263,786
Auxiliary programs...............................$352,251
Transportation.....................................$426,354
Supporting Services
General and Administrative.................$472,730
Facilities.............................................$498,233
Fund Raising.......................................$430,409
TOTAL EXPENSES........................$4,443,763
4%
7%
3%
EXPENSES
10%
11%
11%
50%
10%
8%
EXCESS OF EXPENSES OVER REVENUE ......................... $140,746
W W W . C B H S . N E T
19
Donors 06-07 Fiscal Year
Class of 1933
Edward A. Konek*
Richard F. Varga
Class of 1934
Michael J. Chonko
Class of 1936
Emil E. Hornack
Joseph J. Jakabcin
Class of 1937
Florian Koneval
Joseph J. Sepkoski
Class of 1938
Joseph P. Banas
John E. Krempasky
Class of 1939
Frank P. Matousek
Jerome Slimak
Class of 1940
Edward D. Demko
Lawrence J. Nichta
Edward A. Panos
Class of 1941
Andrew R. Bartko
Joseph R. Carroll
Joseph P. Chulak*
Thomas J. Higgins
Stanley J. Tuleta
Joseph C. Vavrus
Class of 1942
John J. Holub
Thomas M. Kascak
Joseph S. Marec
Vincent J. Stefanek
Louis Zelenak
Class of 1943
Raymond W. Gasbarre
Stephen G. Gress
Thomas F. Henzey
Charles Lee
Maurice E. Murphy
Charles F. Russo
Elmer Wilkes
20
W E
A R E
Class of 1944
Joseph A. Hirka
Raymond C. Krizner
Daniel J. Skrovan
Anthony L. Tolar
Edward A. Tomko
Class of 1945
Ernest J. Adams
Joseph M. Barna
John M. Bina
Edward Damm
George B. Drda
Jack Ferrell
Andrew J. Goldun
Richard Golem
Arthur S. Hanula
Ray Henry
Frank J. Hoegler
Paul J. Hruby
Donald F. Kissel
Robert J. Knotek
James E. Majercik
Joseph Mohar
John J. Plucinsky
Edwin F. Ramsay
Robert W. Ryant
Andrew S. Skunta
Harold E. Sliney
Augustine Stefanek
Robert T. Sweeney
Donald E. Zimperman
Class of 1946
James J. Bird
Theodore M. Blanda
Albert S. Covelli
James Csotty
Stephen E. Ersek
Henry L. Frantz
Gregory J. Frantz
William C. Froelich
Frank J. Heinrich
William A. Hlivak*
John J. Holpuch
Joseph S. Horvath
Ralph M. Hrovat
Joseph J. Kulig
Bart L. Lanchman
William A. Marks
John J. Moavero
B E N E D I C T I N E
William J. Muldoon
Robert J. Peck
Albert J. Pokorny
Joseph F. Sigmund
John N. Zanath
Class of 1947
John Anzlovar
Robert Bagaria
Francis Bortnick
Rudolph Bukovec
Raymond R. Chervenak
Joseph J. Dvorak*
Robert Fogarty
Andrew E. Futey
Richard J. Golias
Eugene J. Hertrick
Louis B. Huber
Edward Hudak
Joseph J. Jicha
Robert J. Lubick
Leonard B. Meljac
Angelo S. Milicia
Joseph L. Mitchell
Edward J. Niedoba
Adelbert J. O’Sickey
Norbert A. Ozimek
Raymond A. Peskar
Frank J. Pierce
John E. Singler
Clarence J. Skrovan
Joseph J. Stipkala
Paul L. Vavrek
Elmer M. Yakkel
Robert Yaro
Class of 1948
Raymond Adams
Rudolph L. Allison
Albert J. Azolino
Eugene R. Bodziony
Larry J. Casey
Robert David
Edward J. Deane
Richard J. Diturno*
Robert P. Fedor
Frank A. Gapinski
Bernard J. Griesmer
Fred S. Kabat
William Koenig
Rudolph E. Koletic*
Andrew A. Konkoly
Robert E. Laheta
James M. Matia
Richard R. Matousek
Raymond F. McGuinness
Joseph W. Mekker
John E. Miklus
George J. Mitchkash
Edward M. Oravec
John R. Oravec
Robert B. Piorkowski
Richard M. Riha
Albert Roberts
Joseph A. Russell
John J. Siemen
Edward A. Steigerwald
Thomas A. Sterkel
Stephen M. Trudick
Carl A. Uhler
Robert A. Urda
Frank S. Wade
Richard A. Wancata
Class of 1949
Edward J. Belin
Richard Cawley
Leonard S. Cech
John P. Coyne
Rudy D. D’Angelo
Richard E. Dzuroff
Raymond J. Gembarski
Raymond J. Grodek
Ernest Hepner
George J. Juhasz
Michael R. Jusko
William A. Kavula
John J. Kulig
Donald J. Malec
Raymond J. Markiewicz
Steve D. Mayercin
Richard P. Nemetz
Charles H. Noll
Stanley A. Nowacki*
Joseph Oliveri
Jerry (Anthony) O’Sickey
Robert W. Papp
John E. Perme
Norman E. Perney
Cyril A. Pipan
Edward J. Powell
Richard J. Reichert
Harold B. Rothermel
William C. Shaker
Charles F. Sidman
Philip J. Siebert
James A. Slapnik
Joseph Spirko
John B. St. John
Edward G. Stakolich*
William G. Sterbik
Ralph J. Yanky
Class of 1950
Raymond W. Borowski
Peter P. Dusek
Roland Horvath
Joseph A. Karafa
Richard J. Kubicina
Gerald J. Martin
Thomas J. Meyer
Raymond M. Planinsek
William F. Sepsi
James St. John
Anthony J. Stefanek
Felix A. Stomber
Donald P. Stragisher
Martin Svec
Joseph R. Timko
George C. Tomcisin
James Vlack
Daniel J. Walsh
Frank J. Zeleznik
Fred J. Zerovnik
Class of 1951
Thomas G. Bacik
James A. Botsko
Kenneth J. Dacek
John F. Dailey
Francis A. Dinda
Joseph A. Franko
William R. Freeland
Robert D. Heiss
John A. Hnanicek
Joseph J. Hornack
Thomas J. Jira
John S. Katronick
John J. Kolenich
Joseph F. Kostelac
Edward J. Kozma
Donald E. Kumhall
Thomas A. Laczko
Lynn W. Leary
Roger F. Lee
Leo C. Leiden
Thomas J. Lohn
Albert J. Martin
Richard T. Mills
Donald Mulec
F. L. Mzik
Paul J. Novak
Joseph Z. Novak
Leonard F. Nunn
Albert F. Onchak
Lawrence F. Petkovsek
John E. Phillips
Bernard P. Pudelski
Robert J. Radel
William L. Roncalli
John E. Schmidt
Ronald R. Senyak
John R. Sigmund
Vincent S. Simon
Eugene T. Skladany
Raymond C. Skrovan
Edward E. Stolla
John Straub
Edward A. Tischler
John J. Vadaj
Eugene Wagner
Raymond H. Warmuth
John E. Weir
Richard J. Wisniewski
Edward J. Yatsko
Edmund J. Yemec
Andrew E. Zolata
Class of 1952
Norman E. Bender
Stephen E. Biro
Joseph S. Bokar
Jerome W. Catalano
Arthur Cross
John P. Flood
Richard J. Gibbons
James R. Goebl
John J. Griesmer
Peter J. Hallahan
Richard S. Kapes
James J. Kelley
William J. Kovach
Lawrence R. Kozak
Andrew J. Kula
Joseph M. Mandula
Michael A. McBride
Elmer S. Mekker
Anthony R. Minkunas
Anthony R. Papesh
Charles W. Scanlon
Michael V. Schaffer
Charles T. Schmidt
James R. Schoeplein
Joseph E. Sedlock
Bernard A. Sens
Mathias J. Skowronski
Benedict F. Stefanek
Robert T. Strumbel
Timothy H. Sullivan
John E. Szakal
Vincent C. Terrano
John Ungar (Ungarsky)
Philip E. Vanik
Class of 1953
Richard L. Andrews
Mitchell S. Brill
Robert Burrell
James R. Chura
James D. Clark
James N. Fakult
Thomas E. Franz
William J. Gallagher
John M. Gibel
John E. Haffey
Ronald S. Halinski
Andrew C. Hirsch
Frank S. Jaczkowski
Joseph L. Knaus
Robert J. Konkoly
Gene L. Krajnak
Donald S. Kynkor
Carl F. Lorenzo
Donald C. Matousek
Thomas O. Miller
Daniel J. Mismas
Alfred Muhle
Leonard M. Murphy
David J. Pastrick
Joseph R. Petsche
Edward J. Pillar
Michael S. Powall
Raymond R. Rezac
Richard D. Sadd
Raymond J. Schmidlin
George W. Schmidt
James R. Sekerak
Kenneth S. Spirko
John L. Stukbauer
Charles A. Suhay
Edward J. Timko
Donald J. Toth
Louis A. Tuttin
John R. Urban
Daniel Vall
James T. Van Kuren
George J. Wyrock
Peter J. Yakovic
Michael C. Zbiegien
Class of 1954
George L. Adamek
John E. Baum
Richard J. Betuker
George A. Bruck
Alfred C. Buchta
Cyril E. Buynak
Robert A. Byrne
Charles J. Caputo
Richard F. Cesen
John P. Cingel
Vincent A. Delsanter
Anthony J. DiFranco
Henry J. Grey
Stephen Halas
Robert J. Hallahan
Donald E. Haluska
Luke A. Hellerman
Edward T. Jonas
John T. Kandzer
James J. Kenealy
Michael J. Kline
Joseph C. Kortan
Raymond J. Kosak
Joseph R. Kralovic
Frank W. Kuchta
Donald J. Kupecky
Joseph S. Lechowicz
Attilio J. Lepri
Vincent D. Marino
George L. Martin
Raymond J. Martin
Edward P. Matuszak
Henry G. McGrattan
Edward A. McNamara
Clement J. Nesnadny
James R. Nose
John F. O’Donnell
Floyd E. Pahoresky
Elmer S. Palko
Bob J. Parsons
Richard D. Pipak
Thomas A. Pons
Richard J. Raycher
Theodore J. Rossy
Joseph P. Russo
William J. Sassano
George A. Schram
Edward A. Sedlock
Frank Semancik
John R. Semancik
Raymond E. Simko
Charles J. St. John
Thomas E. Steigerwald
Raymond B. Suing
Paul S. Suvak
William F. Svoboda
Raymond L. Talpas
John A. Toth
Lawrence A. Turk
Thomas J. Urda
Richard F. Wintucky
John J. Wolf
Frank T. Yako
John J. Young
Daniel A. Zehe
Class of 1955
James A. Bartholomew
Donald W. Bellew
Andre J. Bial
Francis J. Biros
Joseph A. Blaha
Samuel J. Brancifort
Donald V. Buyansky
Lawrence L. Curk
John DiCioccio
John M. Dragan
William J. Dulka
Peter W. Fabien
Nate J. Foliano
Frank D. Forestiere
George D. Franko
Anthony J. Greco
Philip E. Gunn
F. W. Gura
John R. Hranilovic
Edward J. Hronek
Ronald J. Klukan
Allan W. Kolesar
George J. Koneval
Norbert J. Lewandowski
John L. Mihelich
Thomas Nahra
William J. Novotny
Daniel A. Nuti
W W W . C B H S . N E T
21
Charles W. Otto
Thomas A. Patronite
Charles T. Piazza
Edward S. Polgar
George F. Radous
Joseph A. Salvucci
Edmond G. Shivak
Edward J. Simon
Paul J. Soska
Charles A. Soucek
Victor F. Suster
Vincent P. Velas
John S. Veres
George J. Vesprani
Joseph B. Volter
William J. Ware
William M. Wiecek
Gerald E. Wolf
John E. Yelenosky
Class of 1956
John G. Boeckl
Phillip Boger
Edward M. Bohach
Ernest A. Cavasinni
Robert A. Estvander
Lawrence E. Fangman
William P. Jilek
Stephen T. Juodvalkis
Michael P. Kalich
Donald D. Kalinowski
Frank J. Koenig
Thomas B. Lewis
George J. Marik
Edward J. Martin
Joseph J. Matejka
Joseph F. Radic
Albert J. Radous
Charles J. Reynolds
Gerald E. Scheid
Carl J. Smigel
Leonard V. Tarasovic
Richard L. Thomas
Richard F. Toth
Frederick H. Yarris
Donald E. Zoloty
Class of 1957
Louis J. Aliberti
James M. Barko
Daniel S. Barnoski
David J. Blasko
James M. Bodnar
Anthony T. Campanel
Joseph J. Chapon
Gerald J. Czajkowski
Joseph F. Del Sangro
Steve L. Domjan
Joseph J. Dorsey
Joseph T. Ellis
William T. Gale
Anthony M. Gentile
Joseph A. Glance
Robert J. Gura
John P. Gyekenyesi
22
W E
A R E
Anthony A. Halas
Stephen L. Homonnay
Paul A. Hrisko
Carl J. Jaskulski
Thomas C. Jennings
Robert A. Kolenic
Francis J. Kollarits
James E. Krejsa
Stephen A. Krsacok
Robert W. Kwiatkowski
Richard M. Liptak
Raymond J. Martin
William R. Martoccia
Eugene A. McKale
James R. Medve
Louis N. Mele
James S. Papp
Gerald L. Prochaska
Kenneth E. Pruzinsky
Henry A. Putre
Robert S. Sedlak
John A. Shovary
Edward R. Szeman
Ronald J. Szweda
Michael R. Torchia
Class of 1958
Robert J. Anderle
Timothy F. Andrews
Robert J. Belock
Lou J. Benning
Bernard J. Blaha
Ronald K. Blase
Neil J. Bossard
Peter D. Danszczak
Eugene N. Flanagan
Dennis R. Franko
James A. Frijouf
James J. Gedra
Victor V. Germano
Richard J. Hoegler*
Paul J. Kellermann
Eugene A. Krejsa
James F. Kubinski
Terrance P. Leiden
Don P. Lennon
John F. Lewis
Walter J. Luchka
Paul R. Misencik
Charles A. Miserendino
Ronald T. Murach
John Nawarskas
Anthony J. Nuzzo
Peter R. Osenar
Gerald A. Polomsky
Milan J. Ponechal
Dennis Rygiel
Lester L. Scherer
Leonard L. Scherer
Stanley R. Sczurek
James R. See
Ronald J. Skufca
Andrew M. Szymanski
Alan F. Tomsic
Allen F. Yakich
Thomas M. Zale
B E N E D I C T I N E
Walter J. Zubelik
Class of 1959
Gary S. Archdeacon
John F. Barsa
Donald J. Bodjiak
Thaddeus M. Budzowski
Orey R. Buzzelli
Robert B. Catanza
John A. D’Angelo
Thomas A. Derkacs
Donald T. Donay
Gerald A. Dzurik
James R. Flowers
Rudolph A. Forgach
William Gauntner
Kenneth A. Goss
John M. Gothard
Vincent J. Granito
Ronald M. Grobelny
Thomas M. Janecek
Wayne P. Jasinski
Kenneth J. Kerata
James F. Kestner
Robert R. Klein
Norman S. Kolecki
James W. Lewis
Salvatore C. Oddo
Leonard E. Olsavsky
Salvatore Palumbo
William J. Petro
Joseph A. Piazza
Donald R. Rembowski
Russell Salamon
John B. Smith
Robert G. Stockey
Fred A. Svonovec
Edward J. Toth
Norbert Tylicki
Louis G. Veres
John P. Vieland
John Zvolensky
Class of 1960
Conrad L. Barle
Ralph S. Bodziony
Frank J. Bohac
Joseph Bujak
Gerald M. Dzurilla
Al A. Grigaliunas
George E. Hlavacs
Kenneth R. Hrdlica
Ronald L. Kaczmarek
James J. Kolenich
Joseph R. Lorence
William A. Lusk
Roger C. Malinowski
Stephen L. Merker
James L. Michalske
Samuel J. Milicia
John Minor
Paul E. Mocadlo
Thomas R. Nemec
Paul K. Panehal
John E. Pastirik
George W. Perz
James W. Raden
Ernest L. Schmidt
John T. Sciano
Robert J. Shirley
Roger A. Sliwinski
John F. Spernoga
John D. Szy
Paul T. Tavano
Gene P. Wolchko
Joseph T. Zahorsky
Anthony J. Zala
Class of 1961
Dennis R. Andrews
George G. Benko
Patrick D. Christopher
James R. Fink
Jay A. Firzlaff
Thomas P. Friery
Jerome E. Hudak
Stephen J. Kandra
Theodore W. Kukla
Kenneth G. Kurtz
James J. Lewandowski
Michael K. Lipka
Guy F. Mascio
John H. Matuska
David J. McConnell
Vincent W. Naso
Daniel O’Shaughnessy
Theodore S. Puchacz
Joseph N. Schepis
Richard J. Sedlacek
William L. Simko
Dennis J. Stefanek
William G. Szaraz
Jerome E. Trausch
John B. Walsh
Thomas A. Watson
Class of 1962
Kenneth J. Bieniek
Lawrence J. Durica
Gregory G. Fabian
Dominic M. Farinacci
Joseph A. Franchino
John L. Kowalski
Norman J. Kozak
Thomas W. Kucera
Thomas S. Piazza
Louis P. Pirman
Arthur Schwelgien
Stephen J. Sudik
Robert J. Trentanelli
Blaise C. Tylicki
Albert F. Vibonese
Robert J. Zion
David E. Zubelik
Class of 1963
Joseph R. Crea
Joseph P. Ditchman
William J. Dulik
Michael W. Dureiko
Peter J. Ellis
Ronald Ganim
Michael B. Granito
Richard W. Heckman
James N. Hosek
Laurence M. Iwan
Walter E. Kaltenbach
George F. Kochik
Frank J. Kozel
Andrew C. Kraynak
Gregory R. Mack
Richard J. Manfredi
John P. Mudri
Eric B. Rom
John T. Sabol
August G. Supan
Gregory J. Swiderski
Richard S. Taushanoff
Robert W. Toth
Gary P. Toth
Donald Wascovich
Albert M. Zahn
Class of 1964
Chester J. Bartosik
Joseph F. Bert
Phil J. Bova
Leonard M. Calabrese
Richard B. Chapas
Charles M. Ciuni
Gregory L. Crane
James W. Decker
Joseph A. Ferritto
Frank M. Fink
Edward C. Hazel
Raymond E. Hovanec
Martin J. Hrabik
Michael G. Kanda
Douglas Kempski
Charles B. Kovach
Dominic J. Maga
Richard A. McIntosh
William E. Misconish
Anthony J. Musso
Albert G. Patete
Nick D. Pellecchia
John A. Petro
Michael F. Pikus
Charles A. Piskura
Thomas E. Porubsky
Michael J. Quinn
Gregory M. Radecky
Leonard A. Reichert
Richard A. Roznik
Edward Ruszkiewicz
John M. Sanders
Carmen A. Siciliano
William J. Simon
Lawrence W. Stochl
Thomas J. Sudik
William A. Thomas
John S. Timko
Ronald J. Torda
Daniel D. Wheatley
Joseph J. Zupancic
Daniel A. Zydowicz
Class of 1965
Robert F. Arth
Robert J. Belinger
Joseph B. Benovich
Charles F. Braschwitz
Gregory Caniglia
Fred W. Cermak
Kestutis C. Civinskas
Dominic D. Cordiano
John R. Dienes
Ronald R. Ellis
Nicholas J. Fina
Daniel J. Fink
Thomas J. Flowers
Robert J. Hayek
Leonard E. Honacki
George J. Hrabik
Thomas J. Hyclak
Thomas C. Kaminsky
King D. Khas
Konrad T. Kmetz
Richard A. Koprowski
Dennis A. Kraynak
Michael Laurio
Kenneth W. Meyer
Michael J. Nero
David M. Novak
David J. Novatny
Carl I. Ondrus
Arvyd Petrus
Robert D. Popovich
Timothy E. Sopenski
Joseph Stoker
John A. Tascar
August L. Tischer
Robert S. Toth
Richard C. Vadovski
John Vargo
Richard C. Vargyas
John F. Wyszynski
Class of 1966
Michael E. Ahrens
Lawrence F. Alesnik
James J. Baumbick
John T. Billick
Donald C. Busi
Gerald Cech
Mark A. Ciccone
Attila F. Daray
Michael L. Dominak
Kenneth A. Dzigiel
Patrick J. Emrich
Gerard T. Flannery
Steven E. Gotch
Frank A. Hyclak
Raymond J. Inman
Richard M. Jackson
Alan J. Kaminsky
John N. Kane
Joseph J. Marcoguiseppe
Jerold L. Mihalek
Joseph W. Moran
Charles R. Murar
Glenn F. Novak
Larry Papesh
Richard L. Petrilla
Jerome M. Skala
Leslie Szakallas
Joseph D. Zalar
Class of 1967
Joseph B. Anthony
David H. Behm
Eugene P. Blusiewicz
Ross M. Brankatelli
Mark J. Chmielecki
Neil DiGeronimo
Robert A. Dobrinic
Tony J. Dolejs
Stephen C. Franko
John J. Hosek
John P. Jugenheimer
James Kickel
Terry L. Kopania
Robert J. Mack
Kenneth M. Marinik
Russell P. Moenich
Douglas V. Okonek
Richard F. Palcie
Ray Pfeiffer
William T. Rini
Timothy R. Schulte
John A. Siracusa
Anthony J. Supan
William R. Twardy
Joseph T. Valko
Louis J. Zaletel
Class of 1968
Chris A. Bender
Ralph M. Bucci
Jerome J. Cajka
Dennis D. Cech
Raymond G. Champa
Paul J. Clegg
Carl E. Corrado
Terence W. Evert
Jerry T. Ferko
Michael J. Gambatese
Lawrence J. Kalal
Dennis T. Klasch
Thomas E. Konisiewicz
John W. Kuboff
Dale J. Laczko
James J. Marko
Larry Masek
James B. Orosz
David A. Paczko
Charles Palsa
David J. Plisga
Raymond C. Sadd
James F. Schmitt
Dominic L. Scoccola
Matthew E. Smith
Mark F. Tenaglia
Ronald D. Twardy
John J. Vrtachnik
Class of 1969
Paul E. Adams
Ray M. Antonelli
Gary R. Barnes
Richard D. Baron
David A. Belin
Lee M. Budziak
Leo J. Carr
Phillip W. Clipps
Gregory Danisek
Joseph J. Destro
John E. Duda
Douglas J. Dura
Kenneth A. Frato
Larry E. Gorka
Steven J. Halasz
Andrew S. Hanis
Robert Hodanbosi
Philip C. Hudak
Dennis F. Kaczmarek
Harold A. Kalina
Donald G. Kikta
Ronald S. Koch
Albert H. Lewandowski
Nicholas A. Macina
Albert J. Malinak
Gregory E. Minotas
Peter J. Siciliano
James P. Skala
Joseph S. Soblosky
Edmund W. Staple
Gregory T. Sulak
Thomas M. Svoboda
John K. Tomaselli
David J. Vavro
Richard L. Wehrenberg
Charles E. Willard
Class of 1970
Robert L. Ahrens
Donald L. Ambroziak
Paul M. Antonelli
Kenneth F. Baka
Victor L. Baroni
Lawrence E. Blatnik
Dennis G. Bridwell
Patrick F. Burns
John C. Cubar
Patrick D’Angelo
Bernard P. Dietzel
Victor J. Drobnic
Timothy S. Evert
Raymond A. Fink
Ronald J. Fioritto
Ralph F. Gessler
Robert D. Golias
Richard J. Hyclak
Paul W. Kohanski
James S. Koren
Michael C. Kozlowski
John S. Krizansky
Kenneth J. Lapka
Bruce C. Mancini
Kenneth R. Marko
Emil R. Martinsek
James M. Mates
Robert C. McDowell
Kevin McGuire
James Moran
Phillip L. Ozimek
John J. Palasics
W W W . C B H S . N E T
23
Lawrence W. Pompili
Anthony M. Sanson
Harvey E. Senger
Robert J. Sipos
Richard E. Sustersic
Robert C. Szabo
Leonard J. Toth
James M. Vairetta
Anthony J. Zupancic
Robert A. Zupsansky
Class of 1971
Michael A. Andrako
Carl A. Barile
Bruce M. Barna
Herbert E. Bauer
Thomas R. Bendycki
Stephen K. Bossu
Alfred L. Chesragi
Dennis F. DiGeronimo
Thomas S. Farro
James R. Frohlich
Joseph A. Gambatese
Gerard J. Gecik
Richard J. Gentile
Daniel Gibbons
Kerry P. Hodakievic
John C. Hopko
William T. Jacko
Alexander Jackson
Paul J. Jakubowski
Paul E. Kikta
Stephen LaBonte
Timothy P. Malinak
Eduardo P. Martinez
Walter J. Mieskoski
Richard J. Nalepka
James R. Novak
Joseph A. Oriti
John Ruppert
Daniel J. Seman
Gary J. Serfilippi
Peter N. Szabo
John C. Tochek
William J. Urban
Jess E. Veneri
Lawrence H. Wilhite
Lawrence T. Woznick
David M. Yarcusko
Stanley Zabka
Richard P. Zoldak
Class of 1972
Michael Augustine
Bruce W. Barnes
Paul A. Borzy
Stan Budzick
Kenneth M. Champa
Keith M. Deininger
Gregory J. Dembows
Victor F. DiGeronimo
Gerald T. Easter
Allan D. Hodakievic
Donald L. Jones
Mark Kapinski
Angelo J. Kinicki
24
W E
A R E
Jerome A. Kness
Michael J. Kovacina
Daniel W. Lanigan
Gary R. Lukas
Daniel J. McBride
Jeffrey A. Pisching
James P. Piskura
Jeffery W. Pymn
Robert A. Russ
Gerald A. Stoker
Andrew E. Zamiska
James Zupka
Class of 1973
Ronald J. Burns
Richard G. Busi
Richard DiGeronimo
Mark Harcharik
Robert L. Hilfer
Michael P. Kaput
Leo J. Kerchenske
Manuel A. Martinez
John J. Mullen
Harry Pforzheimer
Timothy T. Polgar
John J. Walsh
Class of 1974
Bernard A. Antonelli
Timothy L. Armelli
William F. Bauer
John Glowik
Richard J. Golias
Denis B. Gonda
James G. Kooser
William J. Kopco
Kevin J. Krakora
Anthony F. Krysiak
Frank G. Malec
Michael J. Mancini
Michael D. Martin
Clifton E. Mason
Robert E. Mitchell
Michael J. Molnar
Karl S. Pappa
Greg Rufus
Daniel J. Sitkowski
Michael P. Sobczyk
Mark A. Zamiska
Class of 1975
Gregory Champa
John Colagiovanni
Brian S. Cooper
Gregory E. Eisler
Frank M. Flack
Kevin C. Ford
Stephen G. Hartke
Mark A. Hoover
Norman Lobins
John Molchan
Martin D. Sfiligoj
Raymond J. Shannon
Rodney Stevenson
William E. Szappanos
Bernard J. Wiederwohl
B E N E D I C T I N E
Class of 1976
William P. Baldzicki
Jr. Charles
Michael R. Ford
Timothy C. Ford
Gerald A. Glowik
John M. Gnatowski
Ronald J. Hodakievic
Geza J. Vamos
Class of 1977
Dennis E. Bates
Edward L. Busi
James W. Cooper
Anthony F. Grande
Robert E. Kozsey
Pierre W. Priestley
James T. Quinlan
Robert A. Stoffko
Eric T. Williams
Class of 1978
Michael J. Dragas
Peter C. Germano
David P. Gnatowski
James L. Kovach
Michael J. Quinlan
Andrew D. Smith
Class of 1979
Keith Donahue
Christopher A. Holec
Jeffery A. Molchan
Wayne R. Poussart
Michael Rapposelli
Christopher W. Siemen
Leo A. Tischer
Class of 1980
Steve J. Arvai
David M. Dews
Lloyd A. Farmer
David R. Hobart
Paul F. Matousek
Jerry J. Mismas
Philip A. Muttillo
Class of 1981
George L. Askew
James D. Grazko
Gary M. Grosel
Ronald A. Hutter
Paul A. Joyce
Edward J. Kubek
Robert Lanchman
James M. Peck
Michael J. Walden
Marvin J. Watrobski
Class of 1982
Thomas A. Cranley
William A. Joyce
Richard P. King
Robert W. Kramer
Laurence Laurenzi
John H. Meaker
Brent A. Monachino
Timothy J. Riley
Gregory J. Roscoe
Raymond J. Schmidlin
Daniel W. Smith
Paul J. Volpe
William J. Wilkinson
Class of 1983
Vincent D. Boddy
Terrence J. Lynch
Richard J. Porrello
Michael M. Robinson
Mark E. Spino
John M. Zajc
Class of 1984
Joseph G. Furst
Dennis A. Grosel
Terrence J. Heil
Martin P. Hyland
Timothy A. Jaroscak
James L. Mitchell
James F. Panozzo
Edward J. St. John
Timothy R. Sterkel
Bruce M. Wolf
John V. Zmarzly
Class of 1985
Patrick A. Cartellone
Kenneth J. Deininger
Mark D. Hart
Michael A. Herbst
Class of 1986
Anthony J. Adomaites
Derek L. Billingsley
Louis A. Carcelli
Patrick J. Cullen
John J. Danvic
Joseph P. Fakult
Stephen C. Grushetsky
John T. Kocsis
Matthew A. Martin
Kenneth F. Redd
Michael A. Salem
Glenn D. Skuta
Anthony St. John
Lennon A. Taylor
Kenneth J. Traben
William E. Turek
Lawrence R. Wanke
Class of 1987
Michael A. Bosco
Richard W. Jablonski
Scott T. Rini
C. M. Santa
Dale A. Smythe
Dennis A. Spuzzillo
Class of 1988
Ronald P. Grosel
Steven P. Hart
Michael J. Kubek
William E. Misconish
William P. Murphy
Michael T. Novak
Richard J. Strekal
Mark A. Tibaldi
Class of 1989
Anthony F. Daher
Sean T. Gallagher
Christopher J. Grobelny
Edward C. Haluska
Michael P. Shaughnessy
Class of 1990
Ryan C. Cook
Andrew R. Cross
Brian J. Glinka
Matthew D. Joyce
James M. Kehres
Frank J. Krupka
Denis J. Perkovic
Daniel J. Pozdol
Richard M. Salem
David E. Schroeder
Edward S. Zatezalo
Class of 1991
Daniel J. Bayer
Gregory A. Beggiani
Michael D. Kavran
Randolph G. Loeser
Michael A. Rini
Joseph K. Rosalina
Class of 1992
Richard J. Blanc
Michael R. Mihalek
Class of 1993
Joseph M. Marra
Class of 1994
Joseph M. Donley
Renato R. Gilberti
Robert T. Schroeder
Class of 1995
Joseph R. Carlton
Class of 1996
Thomas M. Bogo
Class of 1999
Francis Lann
The following list shows gifts given
by alumni and friends to support
scholarships, endowment, athletics
and operating expenses between
July 1, 2006 and June 30, 2007.
Alexis Afzal
Veronica Allen
Marilyn Allison
Mr. and Mrs. Lewis A. Alvis
Mr. and Mrs. Jack Ambrose
Mr. and Mrs. Frank Andorka
Mr. and Mrs. Gino J. Andreano
Mr. and Mrs. William Andrews ‘59
Mr. and Mrs. Earl Axelrod
Mr. and Mrs. John P. Bacevice
Olga Bacho
David Bailey
Mildred Balisartura
Mr. and Mrs. Steven J. Baltas ‘87
Mr. and Mrs. Mike Banchy
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph E. Barmann
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph M. Barna ‘45
Nancy Bartsch
Sandy Bast
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Benich ‘48
Dr. and Mrs. John P. Bertsch
Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Biro
Mr. and Mrs. Henry Bloom ‘73
Mr. and Mrs. Frank X. Bova
Gramel Boykins
Vicki Bragg
Jennifer Branisel
Jeanne Burton
Dr. and Mrs. Joseph R. Calabrese
Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Carey Sr.
Angela Carlin
MSGT and Mrs. Joseph R. Carroll ‘41
Richard Cermak ‘64
Mr. and Mrs. Richard Chlopecki
Mr. and Mrs. Dale C. Chorba ‘57
Mr. Joseph Ciolek
Mr. and Mrs. John Colagiovanni ‘75
Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Conochan
Mr. and Mrs. Terry W. Clucas
Mr. and Mrs. Sam Corea
Mr. and Mrs. Pete Costanzo
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Crea ‘63
Mr. and Mrs. James Cull
Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Czajkowski ‘57
Mr. and Mrs. Stanley D. Dannemiller
Mr. and Mrs. James Dedrick
Mr. and Mrs. William Deitrick
Mike Delauder
Mr. Florindo Del Sangro ‘57
Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Devers
Mr. and Mrs. John DiCioccio ‘55
Mr. and Mrs. Daniel J. Dietzel ‘72
Mr. and Mrs. Stephen A. DiMare
Mr. and Mrs. Mark A. DiPalma
Mr. and Mrs. John DiPaola ‘78
Mr. and Mrs. Robert DiVincenzo
Mary Dolan
Mr. and Mrs. Richard Dowling
Mr. and Mrs. James R. Drake
Robert Dupay ‘54
Mr. and Mrs. Dan Dureiko
Michael V. Dzurilla ‘47
Mr. and Mrs. Reginald Eddie
Mr. and Mrs. Jack Elber
James Ellia
Emmanuall Elueze
Donald Evans
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph A. Farchione
Mr. and Mrs. David J. Favorite ‘72
Mr. and Mrs. Umberto Fedeli
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph G. Filippo
Mr. and Mrs. David Fink
Mr. and Mrs. James R. Fink ‘61
Brenda Flowers
Helen Fonda
Leonard Forgach ‘67
Jacqueline & Lawrence * Fousek ‘56
Mr. and Mrs. Richard G. France ‘47
Kathryn Franko
Harry Friel
James Frijouf ‘58
Mr. and Mrs. William C. Froelich ‘46
Mr. and Mrs. Ruben Fuentes
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Furst ‘84
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph A. Gambatese
‘71
Richard Gentile ‘71
Mr. and Mrs. Peter Gerald
Mr. and Mrs. Peter C. Germano ‘78
Mr. and Mrs. Jamie Georgeson ‘78
Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Giannetto
Mr. and Mrs. John M. Gibel ‘53
Mr. and Mrs. James Gibson
Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Glasier
Mr. and Mrs. David S. Golden
Rev. Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth A.
Golonka ‘56
Raymond Gorski ‘60
Jerome Grabowski ‘66
Bishop Roger Gries OSB ‘54
Albert Grossman ‘39
Marcia Gruce
Mr. and Mrs. Tony Guzzo
Mr. and Mrs. Sean Hagan
Mr. and Mrs. Brian Hall
Celia Hall
Mr. and Mrs. Richard W. Hallal
Marcus Hanna
Mr. and Mrs. John M. Hannan
Mr. and Mrs. Brian G. Hasinski
Margaret Havel
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas R. Heckman
Mr. and Mrs. Terrence J. Heil ‘84
Mr. and Mrs. Tim Heinrich
Mr. and Mrs. Jim Helton
Mr. and Mrs. Jim Herak
Mr. and Mrs. Anthony J. Hill
Ms. Laura Hoegler
Felicia Holmes
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph S. Horvath ‘46
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Horvath ‘68
Raymond Hovanec ‘64
Denise Howard
Robert Hrobak ‘57
Mr. and Mrs. Edward Hromulak
Elizabeth Huber
Mark Hudac
Lillian Hudimac
Mr. Kevin Hughes ‘85
William Hughes-Lewis ‘06
Kasib Husain
Mr. and Mrs. Mark P. Ianni
Janice Ilerio
Mr. and Mrs. Carl Ivec, Jr.
Derek Jackson
Mr. and Mrs. Franklin L. Jackson
Mr. and Mrs. Dale Jakab ‘68
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Janoch ‘57
James Jaros
Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Jeney
Sheronnett Jordan
Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Joyce ‘90
Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Kaczynski
Michael Kadlub ‘89
Stephen Kavulich
Mr. and Mrs. Kurt Kendig
Mr. and Mrs. Raymond D. Kikta ‘54
Mr. and Mrs. Richard P. King ‘82
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Kinstler
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Kirsch
Mr. and Mrs. Mark Kleindienst
Joseph Kocab ‘50
David Kornatowski ‘82
Dr. and Mrs. Joseph S. Kozlowski ‘63
Michael Laurio ‘65
Walter Lazuka
Mr. and Mrs. Anthony J. Lelli
Laurice Lightner
Mr. and Mrs. Frederic Loehmann
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Lorber
Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Louis ‘54
Samuel Lucarelli ‘62
Christopher Mack
Mr. and Mrs. George K. Madias
Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Maher
Lynmarie Malec
Mr. and Mrs. John Malick
Mr. and Mrs. Richard Manfredi ‘63
Mr. Kenneth M. Marinik ‘67
Mr. and Mrs. Joe Marino ‘78
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph M. Marra ‘93
Mr. and Mrs. George Martin ‘54
Mrs. Josefina Martinez
Dr. and Mrs. Daniel N. Masica ‘64
Mr. and Mrs. Robert L. Matejka ‘60
Mr. and Mrs. Joe Matteo
Agnes Maynard
Mr. and Mrs. James L. McAdams, Jr.
Joanne McGunagle
Caroline McKalen
Mr. and Mrs. Michael McKinley
Mr. and Mrs. James Meil
Mr. and Mrs. Steven Melchior
Mr. and Mrs. Paul C. Menster
Mr. and Mrs. Frank Merela
Dr. Stephen L. Merker ‘60
Mr. and Mrs. Elmer L. Meszaros ‘64
Mr. and Mrs. Brian R. Misch
James Mondzelewski ‘64
Mr. and Mrs. J. Monteleone ‘66
Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Moriarty ‘73
Mr. and Mrs. Michael E. Mullally
Paul Neundorfer
Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Noble ‘80
Tyrone Nowell ‘75
Mr. and Mrs. James O’Hare
Marilyn O’Neill
Mr. and Mrs. Louis B. Oniga
Mr. and Mrs. James Onorato
Richard Osborne
Mr. and Mrs. Peter Osenar ‘58
Charles Otto ‘55
Mr. and Mrs. James Overholser
W W W . C B H S . N E T
25
Mr. and Mrs. Mark Paluf
Salvatore Palumbo ‘59
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph W. Pappalardo
Mr. and Mrs. Jay Park
Mr. and Mrs. Patrick J. Parker
Mr. and Mrs. Eric Paynther
Mr. and Mrs. Gregory G. Peck ‘70
Mr. and Mrs. Robert J. Peck ‘46
Dr. and Mrs. R.J. Pelegrin
Judy Penman
Mr. and Mrs. Michael G. Perko
Mr. and Mrs. Rickey Perry
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas M. Pesosky
Mr. and Mrs. Michael Petrarca
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph M. Petric
Mr. and Mrs. Larry A. Petroff
Diane Pettine
Jerome Pilcavage ‘66
Mr. and Mrs. Terry Pluto ‘73
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas S. Poti
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Poussart
Mr. and Mrs. Michael S. Powall ‘53
Drs. Thomas Pretlow and
Theresa Pretlow
Mr. and Mrs. Montell E. Little
Mr. and Ms. Francis M. Proch
Mr. and Mrs. Darryl J. Pronty
Mr. and Mrs. Marty Quinn
Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Rabant
Dr. and Mrs. James J. Rascher
Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Raski ‘50
Mr. Peter E. Ratycz and
Ms. Joyce A. Lender
Mr. and Mrs. Wendall Reeves
Mr. and Mrs. William M. Reilly
Mr. and Mrs. Mark K. Ressler Sr.
Mr. and Mrs. Chris Ricchiuto
Marian Richmond
Scott Rini ‘87
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas M. Rini ‘56
Mr. and Mrs. William T. Rini ‘67
Mr. and Mrs. James Rinz
Therese Rossman-Mrofchak
Dr. Susan Rothmann and Philip Paul
Mr. and Mrs. Vincent Rozman
Mr. and Mrs. Matthew J. Rudmann
Mr. and Mrs. Greg Rufus ‘74
Mr. and Mrs. Sal Russo, Sr.
Dr. and Mrs. Robert Savinell
Mr. and Mrs. Reno Schiavoni
Mr. and Mrs. William Schlaudecker
Rita Schlemmer
Mr. and Mrs. Marc Schlessel
Mr. and Mrs. Alan Schmiederer
Mr. and Mrs. Eric W. Schneider
Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Searcy
Mr. James A. Sennett and Ms.
Virginia Bossu
Mr. and Mrs. George W. Sibel ‘65
David Silva
Mr. John Sivinski and Ms. Lynn D. Disney
Mr. and Mrs. Richard Skerl
Mr. and Mrs. James A. Slapnik ‘49
Mr. and Mrs. Roger A. Sliwinski ‘60
Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Smetana
Mr. and Mrs. Andrew D. Smith ‘78
26
W E
A R E
Mr. and Mrs. Brian J. Smith
Mr. and Mrs. Daniel W. Smith ‘82
Mr. and Mrs. David A. Smith
Mr. and Mrs. William A. Soltes ‘53
Mr. and Mrs. Charles E. Spahr
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Spirko ‘49
Edward Spisak
Mr. and Mrs. Christopher St. John ‘77
Mr. and Mrs. Joe Stacks
Anna Sterle
Mr. and Mrs. Edward Stevens
Hermine Stiglmaier
Mr. and Mrs. Frank Stircula ‘71
Marge Stoffko
Rev. Mr. and Mrs. John W. Strmac ‘50
Mr. and Mrs. Albert J. Sudetic
Mr. Stephen Sudik ‘62
Mr. and Mrs. Gerald C. Sulecki ‘53
Margaret Sustersic
Rose Sustersic
Mr. and Mrs. Derek R. Sutcliffe ‘95
Mr. and Mrs. Mark Szabados
Leonard Tarasovic ‘56
Mr. and Mrs. John B. Taylor
Mr. and Mrs. James A. Thelen
Mr. and Mrs. Brian C. Thomas
Mr. and Mrs. James Thomas
Mr. and Mrs. James A. Tillie
Mr. and Mrs. John A. Toth ‘54
Mr. and Mrs. Leonard J. Toth ‘70
Mr. and Mrs. Robert S. Toth ‘65
Mr. and Mrs. Kyle Trimboli
Mr. and Mrs. Michael Turner
Mr. and Mrs. Stanley L. Ulchaker ‘56
Patricia & Gary* Valenza
Mr. and Mrs. Michael Vanni
Mr. and Mrs. Dale D. Vavro ‘77
Mr. and Mrs. Dominic Vecchio
Mr. and Mrs. Dieter Voigt
Dr. and Mrs. Thomas R. Vrobel
Mr. and Mrs. Donald V. Wagner Sr.
Mr. and Mrs. John Waters
Anthony Wawrzynski ‘87
Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Weigand
Mr. and Mrs. Frederick Weinmann
Mr. and Mrs. John Welsh
Martin Welsh *
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas N. Wenzel
Mr. and Mrs. John West
Mr. and Mrs. Tucker T. White
Bernie Wiederwohl ‘75
Mr. and Mrs. Raymond J. Wilcosky
Mr. and Mrs. Eric T. Williams ‘77
Mr. and Mrs. Paul A. Williams
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Williams
Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth A. Zajac
Mr. and Mrs. James M. Zeleznik
CORPORATIONS/FOUNDATIONS
American Express Foundation
AXA Advisors
Cleveland Federated Society
of the Czech Union
Czech Catholic Union
Diageo North America Foundation, Inc.
Dominion Foundation
B E N E D I C T I N E
Eaton Charitable Foundation
Efficient Heating and Cooling, Inc.
Eli Lilly and Company Foundation
F.C.S.L.A. National Office
Gesu Church
Giant Eagle, Inc.
Goodrich Corporation/Foundation
Partners in Giving Plan
Hank Bloom Services, Inc.
Holland & Holland
Howley Family Foundation
Incarnate Word Academy
Independence Bank
Key Foundation
Lambur-Glorioso Foundation
Magnificat Council Knights
of Columbus
MBNA
McDonald’s Corporation
McGinty Family Foundation
McKesson HBOC Foundation, Inc.
Medtronic Foundation
Miceli’s Dairy Products
National City Bank
Norman Noble Inc.
Office Depot, Inc.
Philips Electronic North America
Corporation
PPG Industries
Preformed Line Products Company
Progressive Insurance Foundation
RPM International, Inc.
SBC Foundation
Sherwin-Williams Foundation
Slovak Roman Greek Catholic
Beneficial Society
SmithKline Beecham Foundation
St. Lawrence Church
St. Leo the Great School
Stolier Family Foundation
Sun Microsystems, Inc.
The Abington Foundation
The Boeing Company
The Capital Group Companies, Inc.
The Castele Family Foundation
The Edward and Betty Sloat Foundation
The Erwin and Katherine Geis
Charitable Foundation
The Eva L. and Joseph M. Bruening Foundation
The Fred A. Lennon Charitable Trust
The Lubrizol Foundation
The Merck Company Foundation
The Smiley Family Charitable Foundation
The Thomas Perciak Family Foundation
Thomas H. White Foundation
The Trzcinski Foundation
Tuxedo Junction
Wells Fargo Bank
TRIBUTES
In Honor of Bishop Roger Gries OSB ‘54
Sam Miller
In Memory of Helen Brazynetz
David Pike ‘57
In Memory of James Cullen
Mary Cullen
In Memory of Leonard Davis
Janice Ilerio
Winifred Ivey
In Memory of Edward Desmarteau
Mr. and Mrs. James T. Desmarteau
In Memory of Pauline Dula
Elmer Dula ‘66
Mary Fink
Mr. and Mrs. Richard B. Hogg
Paul Klubert ‘47
Mr. and Mrs. Timothy S. Kunicki ‘66
Joanne Laurie-O’Brien
In Memory of Kenneth Gill
Joseph Kocab ‘50
In Memory of Dorothy Gries
David Bailey
Phyllis Bambeck
Kathleen Cingel
Freddie Mac Foundation
Mr. and Mrs. John Marra
Mr. and Mrs. Christopher E. Soukup
Martha Walters
In Memory of Charles Javurek
Helen Javurek
Joseph Kocab ‘50
In Memory of Julia Kikta
Pauline Kikta
In Memory of Linda Lucarelli
Sam Lucarelli ‘62
In Memory of Frank Malec
Lynmarie Malec
In Memory of Shawn McAdams
Marilyn Allison
Pamela Brzytwa
Joanne Cowden
Judith Crocker
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph P. Ditchman ‘63
Employees of the Suncoast Region Customer Call Center
Friends and Colleagues of
James McAdams
Mr. and Mrs. James Gibson
Mr. and Mrs. Francis J. Gnat
Edward Goldrick
Mr. and Mrs. William J. Grigger
Mary Hicar
Mr. and Mrs. Richard D. Juby
Mr. and Mrs. Curtis B. Kassel
Joseph Kocab ‘50
Rosemary Kosowatz
Roger Krumhansl
Thomas Madigan
Renee Musat
Jess Palker
Mr. and Mrs. Patrick S. Racut
Albert Rieker
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas M. Rini ‘56
Mr. and Mrs. James Scott
Mr. and Mrs. Charles J. St. John ‘54
Mr. and Mrs. John S. Timko ‘64
Mr. and Mrs. Alan R. Veselsky
Mr. and Mrs. Douglas G. Veselsky ‘91
Mr. and Mrs. Eugene A. Witkowski
In Memory of Pancratius Mrachko
Ann Lang
Bernard Mraz ‘54
In Memory of James Reynolds
Ancient Order of Hibernians
Mr. and Mrs. Michael F. Farrell
Carl Napoli
Charleen Reynolds-Cuffari
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas E. Wallenhorst
Mr. and Mrs. John P. Wilgus
In Memory of Anne Rezac
Gwen Haas
Joseph Kocab ‘50
Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Shmelter
In Memory of Michael Rini
A. Jay Simecek
In Memory of Christina Zaletel
Linda Beckert
In Memory of Larry Zelina
Archer-Meek-Weiler Agency, Inc.
In Memory of Raphael Zbin
Mr. and Mrs. Michael J. Zbin
The following list shows gifts and
support given to the 2007 Blue and
White Gala.
CORPORATIONS
Akron Aeros Baseball Club
Artist Touch Studios
Auto Racing Alley
Beef O’ Brady’s
Beran’s Studio
Borally’s Catering & Banquet Service
Boston Mills/brandywine Ski Resort
Bowne Of Cleveland, Inc.
Buca Di Beppo
Cafe Tandoor
Cain Park Cleveland Heights
Calfee, Halter & Griswold LLP
Carlisle, McNellie & Rini Co. LPA
Casa Dolce Bakery
Case Western Reserve University
Chagrin Valley Roller Rink
Chipolte Mexican Grill
Cleveland Botanical Gardens
Cleveland Browns
Cleveland Cavaliers
Cleveland Cinemas
Cleveland Indians
Cleveland Metroparks
Cleveland Orchestra
Cookies By Design
Costco Wholesale
Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad
Dewey’s Coffee Shop & Popcorn
Shop F
DiGeronimo Family Companie s
Dobrski Family Trust
Dottore Companies
Environmental Conditioning Systems
Environmental Conditioning Systems
Facts Management Co.
Family Sports
Fedeli Family Charitable F oundation
First Fiduciary Investment Counsel
Friend Of Benedictine
Fun ‘n’ Stuff
Geis Companies
Giant Eagle
Gino’s Trophies
Goodtime Iii
Grand Prix Of Cleveland
Great Wolf Lodge
Hairkeepers
Harry’s Steak House
Havel ‘s Flowers And Greenhouse
Healthspace Cleveland
Henkel Manufacturing
Holden Arboretum
Holiday Inn Select City Centre
Houlihan Smith & Company
House Of Blues
Howl At The Moon Saloon
Improv Comedy Club & Restaurant
Independence Bank
John Carroll University
John Roberts Hair Studio & Spa
Jon Andrew Hair Salon And Day Spa
Joyce Graphics
Kehres Landscaping
KeyBanc Capital Markets
Kurtz Brothers Landscaping
Ladies Pennsylvania Slovak Association
Lake County Captains
Legg Mason Investment Counsel
Linda M. Osterhoudt
Lockkeepers
Mario Fazio’s
Mario’s Hair Studio
Miceli’s Dairy Products
Miceli’s Dairy Products
Michael Christopher
Moxie The Restaurant
Red The Steakhouse
Muldoon’s Saloon & Eatery
Mulholland & Sachs
National Inventors Hall Of Fame
Nature Center At Shaker Lakes
Northfield Park Harness
Office Max
Orlando Baking Company
Ozanne Construction Co.
Pickwick & Frolic Rest. And Club
Pine Hills Golf Club
Pizza Pan South Euclid
Pizzazz Restaurant & Pizzeria
Playmatters
Pro Football Hall Of Fame
Quail Hollow Country Club
Quail Hollow Resort & Country Club
Renaissance Quail Hollow Resort
Rivchun Jewelers
Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame
And Museum
Roop & Co.
Rosalina Markfrank Hair Salon
Roseland Lanes
Rudy’s Quality Meats
Sausalito Salon
Shaker Heights Hardware
Shea’s Airport Express
Sherwin Williams Employees
Credit Union
Solomon’s Corset Shop
Sports Dome
Sustin, Bartell, Waldman & Fergus
Talbots
Teamsters Local Union # 507
The Bonfoey Gallery
The Nautica Queen
The Ritz-carlton Cleveland
Tower City Center
Trolley Tours Of Cleveland
Ulmer & Berne LLP
Vavro & Company
Western Reserve Historical Society
Whirlyball Laser-sport
Wickliffe Lanes
Winking Lizard Tavern
Wool & Willow Needlepoint Shop
INDIVIDUALS
The Andrews Family
Cassandra Baker
Michael Baker ‘10
John & Laura Bertsch
Dennis & Judy Bodziony
Stephen Bossu ‘71
Norma Boucher
Anthony & Denise Calabrese
Joseph & Beverly Calabrese
Annamarie Chulik
Lori & Mike Conley
Hugh & Andrea Corrigan
Thomas & Tracy Cranley ‘82
Gary & Michelle Delisio
Stephen & Denise Dimare
Robert & Theresa Divincenzo
Ken & Mary Ellen Dzigiel ‘66
David & Linda Favorite ‘72
Marianne Fink
Mark Francioli
Steve & Debbie Friedman
Jamie Georgeson ‘78
James & Margaret Ann Gibson
Robert Golias ‘70
Ruth Graskemper
Matthew & Carol Gricar
Ronald & Wanda Halinski ‘53
Tom & Maryellen Heckman
Raymond & Dorothy Hoover
Roland Horvath ‘50
Dorothy Hudac
Lad Hudac
Timothy Hudak
Dale & Peggy Jakab ‘68
Jeff & Autumn Jeney
Matt Joyce ‘90
Lawrence Kandrach
Debbie Kendig
Bob & Donna Kirsch
Jerome Kness ‘72
Raymond Kosak ‘54
Leo & Dolores Leiden ‘51
Rosemary Lucas
Chris Mack
Kenneth Marinik ‘67
Jack Marschall
Robert & Paula Matejka ‘60
Bess Matuszewski
Joanne McKee
John Minor ‘60
Sal & Jenny Miroglotta
Jeffrey & Mary Molchan ‘79
Marian Moyer
George & Carol Newman
Norbert Ozimek ‘47
Nacy Panzica
Joseph & Eileen Pappalardo
Raymond & Diana Parkison
Thomas & Deborah Perciak
Jason Petroff ‘09
Ronald Polderman
Marie Rehmar
Tom & Sally Rini ‘56
William Ripcho
Greg & Mary Roscoe
Johnathan & Christine Rosskopf
Paul Rozman ‘09
Catherine Rusin
Anthony ’88 & Joe ’89 Russo
Sal Russo
John & Sheila Salem
Richard & Beth Salem ‘90
William Sassano ‘54
Lee Sattelmeyer
James & Virginia Sennett
Cherrie Seslow
Barb Shannon
Brian Sliwinski
Brian & Karen Smith
David & Rita Smith
Rose Stalla
Thomas & Karen Stroh
Bob & Linda Toth ‘65
Stan & Margaret Ulchaker ‘56
Don & Marilyn Wagner
Rick & Ruthanne Weinmann
Jack & Tina Whaley
Kathy Whitely
Bernie Wiederwohl ‘75
Bob & Monica Williams
W W W . C B H S . N E T
27
Abbot’s Letter
A Reflection On Our Faith Journey In Our Times
A
Abbot
Clement
Zeleznik ’50
OSB
28
W E
ny person who has taught for 30 years knows
that there are different shifts in the students
that have to be addressed if actual teaching is
to go on, if the students are to be awakened as persons. Our present cultural shift, according to Charles
Taylor (recently received the 2007 Templeton Prize for
research in this area), is expressive individualism. This
has become a mass phenomenon with an emphasis on
choice and self-orientation.
The basic argument is that each of us has his/her
own way of realizing our own humanity. Further that
it is important to find and live out one’s humanity by
fighting against conformity; against a model imposed
from outside, by society, the previous generation,
religion, or political authority. Conformity just for
conformity’s sake makes little sense. We are called to
understand the need for working together to form with
others in shaping society. But each of us has a unique
call and we must respond to it. Abandoning this
unique call amounts to an abandonment of one’s own
journey.
When we apply this to our struggles with faith,
both our own or the faith of others, we see how we
awaken. The faith stance and practice that I become
part of not only must be my choice, but must speak to
me. It must make sense in terms of my spiritual development as I understand it.
Blessed Theresa of Calcutta once said: “The fruit
of silence is prayer; the fruit of prayer is faith; the fruit
of faith is love; the fruit of love is service. Sustainable
service, the praxis of Christian charity, is grounded in
prayer and the sacramental life of the community of
faith.”
I love this statement of Mother Theresa. The
use of the word ‘fruit’ means that I must wrestle with
each of the elements of my calling until their growth
produces a solid fruit. When dealing with newcomers to the monastery, I never talked about silence. I
just set the boundaries and let the schedule of work
and prayerful reading of the scriptures do their work.
About six weeks into the formation program, the
young person quieted down and began to feel at home.
By six months they either heard the call to our way of
life, or knew it was not for them. They had to make a
solemn choice for or against.
A R E
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Surprisingly, the continued rhythm of silence leads
us to prayer and the discovery of Jesus and, hence, to
a deeper faith. Then we could choose to give ourselves to Him and His design for their lives. Notice
that continued reading in faith leads to love. So the
commitment to prayerful reading gives us insight into
how we are sustained or fail to sustain ourselves in our
faith as an expression of love. When love blossoms into
service, the praxis of Christian charity and sacramental
life in the faith community, we become grounded for a
full Christian life.
The challenge put to our time is to get people to
struggle with silence until it bears fruit. Then we are
called to feed that silence with God’s word, the life of a
Saint, or some experience of truth, goodness, or beauty
that opens us to a deeper faith. Once we meet Jesus, he
will lead us.
Living with St. Benedict Retreats
The Benedictine monks of Saint Andrew Abbey,
Cleveland, Ohio invite young men who are interested
in personal spiritual growth and in seeking Divine
guidance for their life and vocation to participate in the
Living with Benedict weekend retreat program.
March 20-22, 2008
Holy Week Retreat
Sacred Triduum Reflections
June 19-23, 2008
Vocation Pilgrimage to Quebec for the 49th
International Eucharistic Congress and closing
Mass with Pope Benedict
Over 18 only/Cost to be determined
August 8-10, 2008
Community
For information and to register - please contact Fr.
Gerard, OSB, at 216-721-5300, extension 210 or at
[email protected]
Oblate Column
Cheer Up—The Task Goes On!
W
Fr. Michael
Brunovsky, OSB,
Director
here have your New Year’s resolutions gone?
Are you still faithful to them, or have they
wandered by the wayside already—along
with the ones from past years? Resolutions are easy to
make, but hard to keep. With regard to faith, it is good
to make resolutions to grow in our observance and our
understanding. It is good to strive to be more attentive
to the daily call of God. It is valuable to listen more attentively to all that surrounds us, for in these things God
often speaks to us. But there is something more in the
Christian life than making resolutions and striving to
keep them. That is the role of mistakes.
As sinners, we often make mistakes—resolutions go sour,
even our most holy of intentions seem to wane. But that
is part of life. We need to learn that we alone cannot do
it. We depend upon the grace of God, the inspiration of
the Holy Spirit to do what is good. St. Benedict makes this
clear in his rule: “People who fear the Lord and do not become elated over their good deeds, judge that it is the Lord’s
power, not their own, that brings about the good in them
(Prol. 29).” And “when you see something good in yourself,
credit it to God, not to yourself (4:42).”
The Benedictine vow of “conversion of life” gives us a great
example of this. Men and women monastics through the
centuries have realized that the call to holiness is not the fruit
of one or two years, but of a lifetime. We often take two steps
forward, but one backward as we learn to give up our old habits and strive to more perfectly follow the commands of God.
God teaches us through these experiences about ourselves, our
deepest interior desires, wants, and intentions. God continues
to work to purify us, one day at a time. We are called to realize
this and cooperate with the gift of grace. We cannot expect
to grow spiritually and yet strive to control every aspect of our
lives and to “second guess” the divine movements within us.
Fr. Hubert van Zeller, famous 20th century English
Benedictine, once wrote a book entitled Leave Your Life
Alone (1972). By this text he makes an important point: we
often overanalyze and psychologize ourselves into a frenzy
that prevents us from hearing the movements of God and
realizing the value of simple responses to simple graced moments in our lives. We strive for something great, yet miss
the small opportunities to grow in holiness that come our
way each day.
As long as we strive to learn from our mistakes and
failings, these events can assist us in depending more upon
God’s action in our lives and our call to cooperate with that
divine grace. So, do not grow despondent if your spiritual
resolutions have waned a bit: Cheer up—the task goes on!
W W W . C B H S . N E T
29
Remembering Tiso
Abbey and Slovak Institute Chosen as Recipients of Slovak Relics
A
gathering of some
one hundred Slovak
patriots from the
Cleveland, Chicago and
Pittsburgh areas celebrated
the life and work of Monsignor Dr. Jozef Tiso,
president of the first Slovak
Republic, at St. Andrew Abbey on Saturday, December
1, 2007. The celebration
began with a Mass celebrated
by Abbot Clement Zeleznik
and concelebrated by Benedictine Fathers Joachim
Pastirik and Albert Marflak,
chaplains of the American
Slovak Zemplin Club and
Monsignor Dr. Jozef Tiso
the Cleveland Chapter of the
Slovak League of America
respectively. In the midst of Slovak hymns both religious and
national, Dr. Ludwig Pavlo, immediate past president of the
Slovak League of America, presented to Abbot Clement and Mr.
Andrew F. Hudak, Jr., director of the Slovak Institute, an urn
containing a portion of the ashes of Msgr. Tiso.
Courageously fighting to guide and guard the nascent Slovak
republic in the midst of the Second World War, Msgr. Tiso faced
great odds, internal opposition and international difficulties as he
strove to lead the nation. Convicted by a post-war Communist
“court of the people,” he was sentenced to die by the gallows
on April 18, 1947. Over the next several decades and ever since,
Slovak patriots throughout the world revered his memory and the
hope of freedom for Slovakia during Communist oppression. The
Cleveland chapter of the Slovak Catholic Federation annually
hosted such an event for many years on Memorial Day at the
Shrine of Our Lady of Levoca in Bedford, Ohio.
For the last six decades, the fate of Msgr. Tiso’s remains were
shrouded in mystery. Rumors perpetuated that his body was
cremated and the ashes strewn over the country from the air. A
monument in the cemetery at Martin, Slovakia, marked his grave,
but doubts persisted. In March of 2007, government permission
was given to excavate the area of the monument and grave to end
all doubts. The bones of Msgr. Tiso were found intact in the
grave and removed for examination and re-interment. A DVD
presentation was shown after the Mass through the auspices of the
Slovak Institute that documented the exhumation. Also shown on
the DVD was a seminar held to remember the accomplishments of
Tiso. A memorial Mass was celebrated at the Blumenthal Church
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in Bratislava on April 18, the 60th anniversary of Tiso’s execution.
A portion of the ashes were re-interred with full military and
ecclesiastical honors and a new granite monument was erected over
the grave. These events were also presented on the DVD through
the technical assistance of Fr. Michael Brunovsky and Mr. Martin
Trojan, a Slovak seminarian from the diocese of Roznava, who also
related to the congregation, both by words and a short video, the
viewpoints of Tiso as seen by the youth of Slovakia today. Both
of these men also provided the music and sung responses for the
occasion.
Abbot Clement delivered a stirring homily which has been here
presented in its entirety due to many requests.
Za Boha a Narod: For God and Nation. For Monsignor Jozef
Tiso, this phrase was not a simple empty statement of policy as a
politician, nor something to stir up the crowds for fervor, but a real
principle of life. It had depth, breath, vision, power and inspiration
for him, and its proof is in his very life. So we thank Dr. Ludwig
Pavlo for choosing the section of the witness of Dr. Tiso in his
court trial (in his opening remarks), in which he states and offers
to the Slovak people that they should never forget this phrase, Za
Boha a Narod.
Za Boha. For Dr. Tiso, God was not on the back burner. God
was at the center of his life. And the proof is in the witness of
his secretary, Charles Murin. In his book: Remembrances and
Testimony, Murin tells us that Dr. Tiso always prayed the Divine
Office and he prayed it deliberately and with attention. He always
celebrated Mass with fervor and he meditated. Now it is very
interesting that some psychologists today say that we must be
transcendent to be fully human. One of the characteristics that
they put forward is that you must pray and your prayer has to be
fruitful. These professionals are a rare group.
The fruitfulness of Za Boha can be seen in a number of ways.
First, Dr. Tiso was self-possessed. He accepted himself and was
a peaceful person when he dialogued with people and especially
those who disagreed with him. Even when he was angered about
something his response was toward injustice and was not vindictive
toward the person. Proof of this is that, during his presidency
of six years, none of his opponents were thrown in jail, hung or
killed for being opposed to him. Quite different from what was
happening in the countries around him, Germany, Italy, Hungary,
and especially the Soviet Union.
Secondly, Dr. Tiso, because he prayed and because he was
related to God, had a human and spiritual foundation that was
solid. In 1943, while with some friends, Tiso, Charles Murin and
his wife, and a few others were talking about the future. “What
are you going to do when you are seventy,” etc. Tiso stopped
his job was not to squash his enemies but to teach them. That they
them and said, “Will I live through tomorrow?” “It is not written
had a great gift in their country; and so he was patient with them.
anywhere that I shall reach sixty, (at that time he was fifty years
old), seventy,”etc. This means he personally had the realization,
So when he saw the opportunity, and he saw there were homeless
from the time he took office, that his life had the possibility of
people, he made sure, made it possible that condominiums and
being cancelled out at any time. And he knew it. He had already
houses were built. This is a fact. I want to emphasize that these
reflected on what this meant in terms of his life. So he put God
are facts because on the internet none of this is mentioned—it
first. Now when you do that, what happens? You begin to discover is pure slander. He actually did it and it can be verified in
that God is indeed in your life and He helps you and you begin to
documents. He made sure that wages were for the family man.
see him at work and become more convinced Za Boha. That is the This means he was following the teaching of the Church on social
way Dr. Tiso lived.
justice. He was a socialist from the Christian point of view not
from the German point of view. German
It is amazing that, when I was
socialism was nationalistic and you know
preparing for this talk, I punched in
who benefited from that system. This was
Tiso’s name on the internet and Google
not true in Slovakia for during his time
came up with many sites. I could not
in office Slovakia blossomed. They had
possibly go to all of them. But those I
inner peace in the community and growth
did see—every one maligned Tiso. They
in the economy.
called him a fascist, a killer of Slovaks,
anti-Semitic and so on, having no
A Narod. When Dr. Tiso discovered
foundation whatsoever. So we Slovaks
that the Jews were being deported from
need to be writing to present another
Bratislava, which he did not know, he
view.
offered to resign. But three rabbis came
to him begging him not to do so. They
A Narod. Dr. Tiso loved his country.
knew him and realized that if he was
He was truly a full human being who
replaced by anyone, the Jews would be
understood that to be born into a certain
wiped out. And sure enough, what did
country is a gift. And to love your
he do? He stopped all deportation. He
nation is a sign that you are open to the
saved over 28,000 Jewish Slovaks. The
giftedness of your nation. So he was a
internet sites again and again slander
true patriot, a real patriotic person who
Tiso as anti-Semitic. The evidence is
loved his country. Now you and I have plenty
to the contrary. Another proof is that a delegation
reasons to love our country. But do we love it? He
from Slovakia put up a statue in honor of Tiso in
loved it. And that meant not simply the place but
Israel and the Jewish community accepted it! I am
the people and its history. Why? Because our life is
sure they checked their facts before they did this.
a mystery. The country in which we were born and
Whether or not he was anti-Semitic, those people
the times in which we were born is a gift. We need
knew the truth!
each other, and our history is part of the giftedness
of God toward us. But then it has to have flesh on it
A Narod. He reached out to the poor and his
and it did for him.
enemies. So that during his time in office, the
country was very peaceful; much more so than the
Abbot Clement with Fathers Joachim and surrounding countries in the Europe of the Second
When Dr. Tiso was in a position to help his
Albert blesses the ashes of Msgr. Tiso in a World War.
people, he did it with his political power. First of
rite of commendation after the Mass.
all, he accepted being president, because he knew
at that time that this was a dangerous job. He
So Za Boha a Narod is a vision: a vision with
already knew that. He said to his secretary that he was a martyr
light and strength that guides us into the fullness of life. Since
for the justice that was due to the Slovak people. The people
he knew his life was always fragile with regard to its future
were suppressed and did not have their independence. And so
implications, Dr. Tiso also began to realize the implications of his
he was going to take the step to make it possible for the Slovak
life and so he was always ready for death. But he was ready for
people to have their right, their natural right to freedom and selfdeath not in an empty way. He was a good theologian who had
determination, at the cost of himself. He knew it was not going
deep insights. And one of the proofs is in that long nine-hour
to be easy because of ideological differences, even in the Slovak
witness in his defense at the Bratislava court. He said: “At this
community—pro-Czech and some pro-German—and they were
point I give my soul to God, my heart to my nation, my people
vocal! But his attitude was that it took time for people to really
and my body to my executioners...and I am not guilty.” This
appreciate the fact that they had an independent country and so
confirms another statement he made beforehand: “That if I had
W W W . C B H S . N E T
31
to do this all over again I would have done exactly what I did.”
This means he lived from his center, from his conscience before
God and he had nothing to fear. This proved that he went to his
death with dignity, peace and confidence. He prayed all night
the day before he was hung. He celebrated Mass in the morning
and with peace he went to the gallows.
Do we really believe in the Resurrection of Jesus and its
power like he did? Because all of us are going to die, and if we
really thought about our death like he did, then we would have
nothing to fear, especially if we realize that it is the Resurrected
Jesus we receive in the Eucharist. This Jesus leaves the trace of
the resurrection not only in our soul and mind but in our very
body. That is why we receive the ashes of Dr. Jozef Tiso with
gratitude. That is why these ashes are holy. We are touched
by Divinity when we receive the Eucharist and the traces of
God’s presence in holiness are left in our body. The Church
has always said “bury the dead,” “respect the dead,” “take care
of the dead,” because in those ashes we have the seed of the
resurrection. In its history, the Church has always honored the
saints and kept relics so that they could pray to the saints in a
very concrete and relational way. So we expect Msgr. Tiso to
bless our abbey. And you are welcome to come and visit the
Slovak Institute and pray before those ashes.
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I felt the saddest feeling when I went on the internet and
saw all these slanders, maligning Dr. Tiso at every angle. This
means that the prejudices instigated by the Communists and
by some Czech nationalists who hated him (especially Eduard
Benes) are still part of the mental consciousness of many people.
This must be corrected or at least attacked to give people an
alternative view. There is plenty of evidence that shows the true
facts.
So I thank Andrew F. Hudak, Jr., director of the Slovak
Institute, for making it possible for us to receive the ashes of Dr.
Jozef Tiso; and I want to thank him for getting me interested
in this man and his cause. I want to offer to you a deeper
appreciation of Monsignor Tiso, because without doubt he
pleased the Lord and his example gives us a principle to live by
that deepens us in the truth of our being. Every time we draw
closer to God, God sends us to our neighbor. Every one of us
should strive to keep this principle: Za Boha a Narod.
Further information or copies of the above mentioned DVD
are available through the Slovak Institute.
Bengal Briefs
National Honor Society
CSLS 2007-2008
C
ongratulations to the new inductees of the National
Honor Society! The induction ceremony took place on
Monday, December 10, 2007. These candidates possess the
necessary qualities to become a member of NHS, which are
Character, Service, Leadership and Scholarship (maintaining
a 3.3 GPA).
Inductees:
2010
Michael DiGeronimo
Martin Dober
2009
Nicholas Butina
Stephen Elliott
Adam Reeves
Paul Rozman
R. Mitchell Wilcosky
Jared Wilhite
David Zulandt
2008
Patrick Chounet
Aaron Haynesworth
Karlton Laster
Current members
Joseph Fox ’09
Benjamin Kirsch ’09
David Bertsch ’09
Brian Devers ’08
Stephan Dober ’08
Alexander Dureiko ’08
Matthew Hallal ’08
Christopher Heckman ’08
William McConnell ’08
Brian Rinz ’08
Michael Smetana ’08
Nathan Szabados ’08
Charles Tillie ’08
Daniel Williams ’08
Stats & Probability at Chipolte
M
r. Jim Goodman’s Stats and Probability classes took a field
trip to Chipotle restaurant in Coventry Village the Tuesday before Thanksgiving. The group, made up of fifty juniors and
seniors, descended on the restaurant during the lunch hour with
pencils, paper and calculators ready to begin class. The lesson
for the day was to calculate the
total number of possible burrito
combinations a customer could
order. This was a tough assignment for the class to take on but
the “Men of Benedictine” were up
for the challenge. Mr. Goodman
gave the class a worksheet with
the math equations and all the
information needed to complete
this assignment. The menu items
included: the four meat options;
steak, chicken, carnitas and
barbacoa, rice, three bean options;
black, pinto or no beans, four salsa
options; hot red chili, medium
green chili, medium corn and mild tomato, and other toppings,
lettuce, sour cream and guacamole. After much calculation and
sampling a few burritos they arrived at the figure of 8,192 possible
burrito combinations.
Now part two of this assignment dealt with the customer who
enjoyed eating vegetarian burritos. Again, given all the possible
vegetarian menu items: three bean options, four salsas, four of
the other toppings the calculated figure was 768 combinations.
Adding the two combination numbers together you have a grand
total of 8,960 burrito combinations. But Mr. Goodman discovered
that the friendly people at Chipotle are happy to oblige if you ask
them to add extra cilantro to your burrito. The final answer to
this assignment - 17,920! This was one assignment the students
could really sink their teeth into. What a great opportunity to the
practicalities of math in use outside of the classroom.
W W W . C B H S . N E T
33
Benedictine Expands Partnership with Recruitment Update
Cleveland Clinic Foundation
The following letter was sent to parents, faculty and staff
A
ter many months of planning and meetings, Benedictine
High School and the Cleveland Clinic Foundation (CCF)
announced a plan to expanded their partnership.
“We are the only Catholic boy’s high school that works in
partnership with the Cleveland Clinic Foundation and its office
of Civic Economic Initiative,” said Sal Miroglotta, school principal. “As such we have a unique opportunity for internships and
special educational windows opening up.”
The partnership will include a number of exciting options for
students and facility including:
 Guest speakers from Nuclear Medicine, Pharmacology,
Analytical Laboratory, Physical Therapy, Sports Medicine,
Genetics, Dietary Departments, Wellness and Nutrition will work with BHS health classes
 Web casts for Health and Biology classes
 Special affiliation with the Sports Medicine practice at CCF
 Research in support of projects geared to the Northeast
Ohio Science Fair.
“Benedictine has had a number of top quality students
participate successfully in our recent internship programs,” said
Rosalind Strickland, Senior Director in the CCF Office of Civic
Education Initiative. “We see this program continuing in the
future.
The Office of Civic Education Initiatives was established to
fulfill The Cleveland Clinic’s commitment to promote education
throughout Northeast Ohio. In partnership with area schools,
local businesses, and fellow nonprofit organizations, the Office
creates innovative programs designed to enhance education in
the areas of math, science, health and wellness, arts and innovations.
Benedictine High School is looking for other companies to
form strategic partnerships to enhance the student learning
and education experience. If you can help, please contact Sal
Miroglotta at [email protected] or 216-421-2080.
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of Benedictine by Mr. Miroglotta on February 19 regarding
recruitment and retention efforts in the school.
Dear Benedictine,
I am excited to report to you that our recruitment and admissions numbers for the class of 2012 continue to look great. In a
day and age when grade school enrollments are declining and
so many schools are struggling with enrollment, it’s great to give
you the following figures.
To date, we have 148 applications vs. 128 at this time last
year. This represents an increase of 15% over 2007 stats,
and that figure of 128 was an increase of 13% over the 2006
figure of 113.
Our 2008 application figure is up by 31% over the 2006 number
to date. Further, Benedictine has reduced school-wide net attrition from 12% in 2005 to 5% in 2007 and reduced 9th grade
net attrition from 15% in 2005 to 6% in 2007. Everyone associated with the school should give themselves a healthy pat on the
back for all of the positive input, encouragement, and hard work
that they have offered.
Expanded technology, growing honors and AP class options, expanded sports offerings of swimming and lacrosse, and a vibrant
and energetic teaching staff all contribute to our mission and our
competitive edge in the marketplace.
The Men who take on the challenges of our mission and succeed
every day deserve our praise. They are why we are here, why we
succeed, and why we will be here long into the future!
Peace and thanks!
Save the Date!
2008 Class Reunion Weekend
S
ave the date for the 2008 class reunion weekend June
27-29 celebrating any class ending in 3 or 8. Special
honorees will be the class of 1958, celebrating their 50th
anniversary, and the class of 1983, celebrating their 25th.
More information to be mailed in the coming months.
Andrew Douglas ’08
Dissecting the Future
“W
hat do you want to be when you grow up?”
Senior Andrew Douglas has known the answer
to that question since he was 10 years old.
Andrew received a diploma for successfully completing the
research project and is well on his way to his goal of a career in
medicine as a Cardiovascular Surgeon.
“When I was in the 5th grade, we had to do a dissection for
science class. My teacher watched how I did mine and suggested
that I should look into being a surgeon because I had such steady
hands. Those comments stuck with me.”
Despite his young age, Andrew has nourished his interest in
medicine and surgery and it intensified.
“I am proud to be the first high school student ever to complete
this type of course at Case, and I was asked to continue my
education and work study there. I currently hold a job at the
Institute of Technology at Case. On occasion, I attend seminars,
and go to University Hospital to work along side the other
researchers in their laboratories.”
“In the 7th grade at Shaker, an anesthesiologist took me to see
an open heart surgery. This really peaked my interest. I thought
it was amazing, I didn’t think it looked gross or nasty, I was so
interested in what they could do.”
In his spare time, Andrew is an active member of the Jazz Band,
Culinary Club, Film Club, the “It’s Academic” Team at BHS and
also plays rugby for the Parma club team. He recently spent time
observing a general surgery of a partial removal of a kidney and
appendix. He hopes continue his education at either Case or Johns
Hopkins after graduation.
Fast forward to the tail end of Andrew’s junior year at
Benedictine. Andrew’s church, Mt. Zion in Cleveland, was
offering students a chance to listen to a speaker at a college
scholarship meeting. It was a meeting Andrew almost missed.
“I was late in getting there but walked in on what was quite
possibly the most influential evenings of my high school career. I
listened to the speaker, Dr. Clarence W. Mixon, who told us that
if we were interested in medicine, doctoring, engineering, and
biochemistry to come up at the end to see if there was a possibility
of an internship.”
Dr. Mixon discussed the different activities that Andrew could
take part in at Case Western Reserve University (CWRU). But,
because of his age, there were limitations of the activities and
programs that he could participate in.
“I hesitated at first because I was not quite sure if I wanted to
go into biomedical engineering, or of just medicine itself. I was
invited to attend a Case “showcase”, which is similar to a science
fair. It was there that we discussed the issues that grabbed my
attention. This is where I realized I was interested in biomedical
engineering.”
Andrew was introduced to MIT alumni and current researcher
Christine Flemming. Ms. Flemming introduced Andrew to the
research team and discussed all of the projects that he could work on.
“Over the summer, I began to work on several reports and
projects. My main focus area was to research ablations and lesions
on a quail’s heart using 4-D imaging. This research is helpful in
attempts to locate problems that could be detected beyond the
reach of a normal check-up, like finding a heart murmur or dying
tissue.”
W W W . C B H S . N E T
35
Mr. Misch Goes to
Washington
Senior Kyle Misch represented Benedictine
High School at the National Young Leaders
Conference in Washington D.C November
13-18. The National Young Leaders Conference (NYLC) is designed to instruct and
enrich promising students in a hands-on,
experiential atmosphere while preparing
them for a lifetime of leadership. Since
1985, over 200,000 high school sophomores, juniors and seniors have taken part
in the program. Kyle was nominated by his history and theology
teacher, Fr. Michael. An active student at Benedictine, Kyle is involved with the swim team,
Italian Heritage Club, Key Club, Film Club, and German Club. In his
spare time he is a lifeguard and swim instructor for Richmond Heights
and Beachwood city pools. Here is his first-person account of his
week in Washington. T
he National Young Leaders Conference (NYLC) is a
conference in which high school students come together for
six hectic days of non-stop action and learning. Students,
or “scholars” as we were called, arrived at the National 4-H Center
from as far as Hawaii, Montana and California; others came from
as close as Delaware, Massachusetts and Maryland. In fact, one
scholar had to leave a day earlier than others because he lives with
his family at a military base in Germany. Needless to say, each
scholar was unique and from a different background, enhancing
the experience. Every student was placed into a Leadership Group. Each group
would work together throughout the week and take part in simulations of government activities. We took part in three simulations:
“If I Were President,” “Testing the Constitution” and the “Model
Congress”. “If I were President” tested the leadership skills of each
person in our group. Each person was assigned a position such as
president or vice-president, or secretary of defense. My position
was commander of the U.S. Pacific Command and my role was
to decide what military actions we could take in the Pacific. The
simulation was very realistic with “red alerts,” and I received secret
messages concerning troop activities. At the end of the simulation,
there was a press conference in each leadership group conveying a
strategic future plan and a debriefing. Another perk of the conference was that we listened to many great
speakers, including the assistant to the secretary of education. She
spoke about her life and how education is affecting the nation today.
We were able to ask her questions about how Washington plans to attack some of the education problems in the United States. 36
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After her speech and a Q&A session, it was lunchtime in
Dupont Circle and then on to some incredible sights including
the Korean War Veterans Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial, and
the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. After visiting these sites, I had
a newfound appreciation for those in the armed forces - both past
and present.
One of the most profound events of the week was a workshop
about hunger and what we can do to combat the rising trend of
hunger in the United States. They assigned me an “alter ego”, and
I played a man with no money who had to scrounge for food and
find food stamps. It made me realize how difficult it is for people
who live on the streets to find food. Before I finish my time at
Benedictine, I would like to help find ways for the school to be
more involved in hunger initiatives.
It also made me appreciate the plight of the homeless in the United
States today. For the past three summers I have gone with my church
(Willoughby Hills United Methodist) to Steubenville to participate in
the JOSHUA (Journey Of Service Helping Upper Appalachia) House
program. It is similar to Habitat for Humanity as we build or rehabilitate homes. There is a lot of work we can all do to help others. The following day we went to the Capitol building and witnessed the opening of the House of Representatives. I was
scheduled to meet with Ohio’s own Representative, Stephanie
Tubbs-Jones and Senator Sherrod Brown. Unfortunately, both were
occupied when we were supposed to meet. However, I was able to
meet with their assistants, and they gave me an overview of what a
typical day is like working in Washington. Next, our group took
part in tours of the U.S. Capitol, the U.S. Supreme Court, the
Library of Congress, Jefferson Building, the Folger Shakespeare
Library and the Sewall-Belmont House. The tour guides provided
a healthy dose of education on all of these landmarks for us.
Later that evening came the next simulation, “Testing the
Constitution.” This was primarily a judicial simulation with court
justices, petitioners, and respondents. Each team of attorneys
had an allotted amount of time to present their case to the judges
followed by questioning and the defense of each position. The
objective of the stimulation was to provide an example of how the
judicial system operates within the government. The next day we were treated to breakfast at the Marriott Metro
Center where we participated in a panel discussion with members
of the Washington press corps. The press panel included Nancy
Ambrose, A.D. Stoddard, Clarence Page, and Chip Reid. Most
questions asked concerned the current circumstances within Iraq
and high gas prices. Our discussions with the press panel led to a town hall meeting that dealt with different parts of the First Amendment. I was
appointed the “mic-man” in the discussion room, which meant I
had the job of handing the microphone to the scholars who had a
question or an opinion they wanted to voice. After breakfast with
the press, we spent time at the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial and the Thomas Jefferson Memorial. After the meetings, we took part in the “Model Congress”
simulation. Our groups were organized into caucuses to defend a
proposed amendment to a bill introduced into Congress. My job
for the caucus was to be a testifier. My responsibility was bringing
our case to a committee for a hearing and defending our amendment to the bill. My partner and I successfully passed the committee hearing, as did the two other groups for their respective
committees. In addition, there was a lobbying period designated to
garner votes for our amendment. The lobbying period turned into
a full-blown debate on the bill issues. This was a warm-up to the
Model Congress that would take place the next day.
Saturday morning we boarded the buses to travel to the White
House for a photo opportunity. After the White House, it was on
to the Model Congress general session at the U.S. Department of
the Interior auditorium. Each caucus presented their amendment
to the bill and a member of the opposing party stood up to say why
they think it should or should not pass. The caucus that I was in
passed our amendment without any opposition and the one member of the opposing party who stood up to speak out against our
amendment was booed! After all caucuses brought their amendments to the podium, there was an open forum for members of
each party to come forward with opinions on how they thought the
Model Congress went. When the Model Congress was finished, we were dismissed to
the Smithsonian Museums and to have lunch on the National Mall. While we were there, I learned that not only is the National History
Museum an amazing place, but that the CBS show CSI: Crime Scene
Investigation was first thought of and filmed there. Another televised
show, Bones, is also filmed on location in the museum. By the end of the week, I had made many great friendships and
was inspired by the work we had done in our simulations. Also, I had
acquired a wider understanding of politics and the world. At Benedictine, this experience has helped me to be a more focused and vocal
leader. I am more willing to participate in classroom discussion and
volunteer my opinion when asked about my thoughts on a subject. I
am confident my experiences in Washington will help me in college
and in my intended career as a physical therapist. W W W . C B H S . N E T
37
A Man in Full
Ryan Andorka, ’08, exemplifies what
a Man of Benedictine should be both
in and out of school
T
he wind howls wickedly outside as winter arrives in Cleveland with a vengeance. Most of the citizens of the city are
holed up in their houses trying to avoid the cold and the
traffic jams caused by a blinding snowstorm.
Not Ryan Andorka, however. He’s worked too long and too hard
to put together a poetry reading at the Phoenix Coffee House in
South Euclid to raise money for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. He’s gathered 15 of his fellow Men of Benedictine to come to
the coffee house and read poetry — their own and those of others
— to benefit the worthy cause.
For $1, poets can recite as many poems as they wish, and he carefully puts out a sign inviting others to donate additionally to the cause.
He looks up from his work for a moment to explain why he has put so
much effort into making sure the poetry reading happens despite the
weather.
“It’s important for us to reach out and help others whenever we
can, wherever we can,” Andorka says as he glances at the schedule
of poetry readers he has created. “We have so much in life that we
forget about those who have little or none, or who are constantly
suffering while we smile. You can’t stop helping just because it’s
hard or because you have obstacles to overcome. It’s about your
commitment and determination.”
Andorka, a member of the Benedictine High School Class of
2008, will graduate in May a well-rounded Man of Benedictine.
It’s not just the academic pursuits he enjoys — Andorka lists English, psychology, theology, Greek and Latin as his favorite academic
studies throughout his Benedictine career — but it’s the opportunities outside the classroom that have made his four years at the
school rewarding to him.
“Benedictine has truly opened my eyes to my possibilities,” he
says. “It has led me on a path to potentially revolutionary leadership possibilities, but it’s really the sense of unity and brotherhood
at Benedictine that blows my mind.”
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Take the marching band, for instance. During his four years
performing every Friday night at football games, it never expanded beyond 38 people. But the students involved were committed
to giving the school the best-sounding band they could, even
when they competed against bands more than five times their size.
Andorka, elected to Tri-M, a nationally recognized music honor
society, after only his freshman year as a drummer, evolved into a
leader of the group and finished his career as the drum major.
“As a freshman, I expected to be made fun of and get picked on, so
I stayed pretty quiet,” Andorka says. “But by the first game, the seniors
had already made me feel welcomed. I felt like I was home. Their
example helped me grow into a ‘parent’ myself for the younger band
members — especially the drummers,” he continues. “I have tried to
teach them ‘The Benedictine Way,’ and I firmly believe they will carry
on the high level of quality and power our band is known for.”
In the past three years, Andorka expanded his performance
repertoire to the Drama Club, where he has appeared most notably
in the Benedictine performances of High School Musical and The
Outsiders last fall, where he played Soda Pop. (He’s also performed
in Once Upon a Mattress, The Wizard of Oz and Canterbury Tales
in Regina High School’s performances. He will also be performing
in Regina’s production of Anne of Green Gables in February.)
“When you spend that much time together — the rehearsals,
the performances and all the work that goes into preparing for a
play — you create tight-knit groups of friends with one purpose in
mind. Those are relationships that aren’t easily separated, and they
will last long beyond the actual performance run. I can honestly
say I will never forget the people I met in it.”
Andorka is also a member of Benedictine’s choir, which performs concerts at the school and around the area. He’s also a
member of a quartet that grew out of the choir under the guidance
of music director Ian Crane, but whose practices were largely selfdriven. Since the quartet’s performance at the Christmas concert,
word of their excellence has spread, and people are requesting additional outside performances left and right.
But Andorka’s eyes shine with the light of the committed when
he’s asked about the lifetime commitments his years at Benedictine
have engendered in him. Though he hasn’t made a final decision
on a college yet (at press time, Andorka’s received five acceptances
and is waiting for at least one more, all with academic-perfor-
happen without trying to do something about it,” he says. “It’s one
of the many things I’ve learned at Benedictine — think outside
yourself and help others when you can, whether they’re down the
street or around the world. It’s your duty.
“One thing I encountered in my efforts, as everyone does at some
point in their lives, is opposition,” Andorka says. “Others wish the
situation would improve but believe there is nothing they or anyone
does that will make a difference. Well, at Benedictine, we learn that
if we really want to make a change, we should go out and make it. I
have not let anyone stop me in my quest for peace and love.”
mance-based financial aid attached), he already knows what he
wants to do: help the poor, forgotten, underprivileged and suffering
people around the world.
He’s already gotten a good start by helping local disadvantaged
youth through Benedictine’s Key Club, where he has volunteered
his time with disabled and austistic children where, among other
skills, he helped them learn to ride bicycles. But his eyes are focused
on a more worldwide goal.
“I want to become a doctor and then move to Africa to help people
who wouldn’t normally have access to adequate health care,” Andorka
says. “What happens in some areas of the world is disgraceful, and if
I can help alleviate some suffering, that’s what I want to do.”
Andorka’s interest in Africa intensified last year as he researched and
learned more about the ongoing genocide in Darfur, a Texas-sized area
in western Sudan, an African country just south of Egypt. The conflict
started when rebel groups opposed to the neglect of the concerns of rural
Sudanese launched an insurgency against the government. In response,
the government brutally suppressed the rebellion, using tactics including
rape, murder and torture as well as the burning of entire villages.
The resulting humanitarian crisis has been largely ignored in
the national media in the United States, but the stories of brutality
and displaced refugees touched Andorka’s heart. In the Benedictine
tradition of standing on the side of the dispossessed and oppressed,
Andorka organized a car wash to raise money for the Save Darfur
Coalition, an alliance of more than 180 faith-based, advocacy and human rights organizations with more than 1 million activists and 1,000
community groups committed to ending the genocide in Darfur.
A committed pacifist, Andorka also planned on traveling to
Washington D.C. in Janaury as part of a Benedictine pro-life
mission trip to march and to visit places that sanctify the value of
human life in all its phases.
“So often, pro-life in the Catholic church is seen as strictly an abortion issue,” he says. “But it’s so much more than that, and I want to be
part of the movement that brings all of the pro-life aspects to light.”
That includes making the world a better and cleaner place to live. Andorka, who is a member of Benedictine’s Environmental Club, regularly
organizes group forays into the Euclid Creek Reservation, a Clevelandarea metropark, to pick up trash left behind by thoughtless partiers. He
is also organizing more active recycling efforts at the school itself.
“We’ve been given the earth by God to protect, and it’s a
disgrace the way some people treat it,” Andorka says. “I want to
change peoples’ minds and make them think about what they’re
doing — and I want to do my part to fix what I can.
“People don’t realize or don’t care that they are destroying one of
the most simple and beautiful things they will ever see. I refuse to
stand by apathetically and watch this happen.”
A sudden blast of cold air causes Andorka to look up as his poets
walk through the door of the coffee house. He glances down at
his own black notebook, filled with poetry he has written using
(in part) writing skills he’s honed as a member of Benedictine’s
newspaper and the literary magazine. He chooses his own poetry
carefully to reflect his myriad interests and observations of human
nature and, well, nature itself.
A small crowd gathers to listen to the poets, and Andorka smiles at
the success of his program, which ended up raising $110 for St. Jude.
Gathering friends around him from Benedictine and other Catholic
high schools, Andorka’s efforts raised more than $200 during a day of
getting down and dirty washing more than a dozen cars. Not only did
he see the monetary fruits of his labors go to a good cause, his efforts
also raised awareness of this crisis to hundreds of passers-by. Andorka
was also pleased to make several new friends out of strangers, merely
because they shared similar ideas about the world and changing it.
“My four years at Benedictine have helped shape me into the
person I am today,” Andorka says as he listens to his fellow Men
of Benedictine read their heart-felt words. “I’ve come away with a
wider appreciation of the world around me and my place in it, and
I’m grateful. It’s prepared me well for the future. Benedictine has
also taught me to be humble. I am far from being perfect, and there
is so much more I wish to do. I don’t see myself as any better than
the stranger you pass on the street. I am merely a determined mind
with a powerful cause, a product of my Benedictine education.
Andorka smiles when he recounts the car wash efforts and the
fun he had, but the conversation quickly returns to the cause itself.
“I couldn’t stand by and watch something like the Darfur genocide
“I am proud to be a Man of Benedictine, and I will carry that
title proudly for the rest of my life.”
W W W . C B H S . N E T
39
Principal’s Letter
A
Sal
Miroglotta
Principal
s recruitment season comes to a close and we prepare to review applications for the class of 2012,
I can recall at least a few of the many times that I
have been asked why I think that Benedictine High School
is such a great school, the best of any. There are typical statistics and results to which we point: small classes,
outstanding faculty, current technology, championship
athletics, vibrant fine arts, and a growing and successful
Advanced Placement program. We never discuss our excellence without also talking about the Benedictine monks
and the spirituality that they bring to the school.
stage, playing title roles. They are scholars taking another
tough class or wrestlers carefully considering what to have for
lunch knowing they have to weigh in tomorrow. They are
photographers hoping they got the perfect shot or writers for
The Bennet seeking objectivity and fairness in their latest article.
They are carrying drums on the field or a paint brush in the art
room. Their arms are outstretched giving blood to save a life.
They are here to do well. But they are not just in it for
themselves—they are here for the world as well. Sometimes the world is just a mile away when they drop off
canned food for a holiday food drive. Maybe the world is
all the way to Darfur where money is headed, fresh from
a fundraiser organized by a Bengal. Perhaps the world is
in Washington, D.C. or just around the corner on Shaker
Boulevard where our students gather to pray for the sanctity
of life locally and around the world.
But for a moment, it would be worth talking about
Benedictine High School as the best school for the world
rather than the best school in the world. That’s what this
issue of the Ora is all about—the kind of students who are
aptly comfortable at the Home of Champions, but who
also prove every day that thinking like a champion means
thinking beyond one’s self to one’s place in the world.
Read this issue, and you will learn about a few
examples of who we are, what we are, and even why
we are. Small classes, outstanding faculty… we know
the list well. We are Benedictine High School, the best
school for the world.
So who, exactly, are the members of this school that
boldly proclaims “We are Benedictine?” They are football
players often, baseball players as well. They are on the
2008 Bengal Sports Camp Programs
Program
Dates
Times
Spring Baseball Clinic March 9
Football Camp
Current Grade
Location
12:00pm-3:00pm
5th-8th
BHS
June 16-18
9:00am-12:00pm
5th-8th
BHS
Soccer Camp
June 23-26
6:00pm-8:30pm
5th-8th
TBA
Wrestling
June 24
9:00am-1:00pm
5th-8th
BHS
Basketball
June 30-July 2 9:00am-1:00pm
July 7-10
9:00am-12:00pm
5th-8th
BHS
Sports Camps
Benedictine Sports Camps offer a variety of skill camps for young men. The camps are
instructed by coaches, assistant coaches and our own high school athletes and focus
on fundamentals, techniques, and one-on-one instruction. True to the Benedictine title
“Home of Champions,” the camps also emphasize dedication, commitment, teamwork and
sportsmanship – the qualities that make a true champion!
For more information, please call:
Benedictine Marketing Department at 216-421-2080 ext 156 or visit us at www.cbhs.net.
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Admissions & Advancement
A Time to Give
F
irst of all, let me take this opportunity to describe how proud
I am to return to Benedictine in the role of director of advancement. It is a wonderful honor to once again be a part of the
Benedictine family and to actively participate in the development
and progress of this tradition-rich institution. Even though we have
been recognized for many successes throughout our proud history,
I truly believe our greatest accomplishments are yet to be realized.
In order for us to achieve this potential, we will need the assistance
and support of everyone who has been touched by the spirit of the
Benedictine community.
Joe Marino
Director of
Advancement
The role of the Advancement Department at
Benedictine is to secure resources, both human
and financial, that will enable us to meet the
goals and objectives of our mission. As many
of you are aware, tuition payments alone do
not provide the necessary funding for the cost
of educating our young men. The Advancement Department attempts to offset this deficit
by attaining charitable support from alumni,
parents, friends, and businesses who have witnessed firsthand the benefits of a Benedictine
Benedictine Campaign Hits New Highs
O
ur “We Are Benedictine” marketing initiative has really
taken off in the past couple of months. We hope some
of you were able to hear our radio spots on WTAM, WQAL, WZAK
or WDOK. We received several calls from current parents and
alums who were pleasantly surprised and excited to hear our
radio ads. The newspaper ads for this campaign looked great
starting with the August Charity Game ad in the Plain Dealer, to
the Sunday, October 21st ad in the sport section of the Plain
Dealer on the Indians Playoff Scorecard page and various other
ads in local papers and magazines. We have been working with
Mr. Ed Stevens from Stevens Baron Communications, Inc. to assist us with promoting Benedictine’s open houses and scholarship/entrance exams.
Our expectation was to increase the public’s awareness of the
wonderful educational opportunities here at Benedictine and to
have them visit our school. We were pleased we surpassed the
number of our “Bengal for a Day” visitors and test-takers from
last year. In fact, with the same number of applicants as last
year, we have a greater number of students who have applied
education. Your contribution to Benedictine will play an instrumental role in the development of our students and will serve
to enhance their overall Benedictine experience. Although your
financial support is encouraged, we are also grateful for your additional resources of talent and time to advance the mission of
Catholic education here at Benedictine.
As you are called upon throughout the year to participate in our
fundraising efforts, please remember how important your contributions are to making a difference in the lives of our young men.
Many of us have directly benefited from the generosity of those
who came before us, and now it is our turn to pave the way for
future Benedictine leaders. You are the driving force behind their
success and hold the key to their future. I am confident that the
Benedictine community will once again rise to the occasion and
demonstrate the spirit and enthusiasm that enable us to proudly
state, “WE ARE BENEDICTINE!”
Thank you in advance for your generosity and support.
If you have any questions, suggestions, or wish to make a donation to Benedictine please contact me at 216-421-2080 ext. 357
or you can email me directly at [email protected]. I look forward
to meeting all of you at future Benedictine events! Go Bengals!
for scholarships, grants and tuition assistance. We still need
your help in securing these young men as a future Bengal.
There are many forms of media we can use to market Benedictine to prospective parents and students but one of the best
and preferred methods we like to use is our alumni. We have
nearly 10,000 “Men of Benedictine,” many of whom have helped
us with various recruitment activities already. The recruitment
of new students does not fall on the shoulders of one or two individuals but on the entire Benedictine High School community.
We have a simple request from all of our alums, teachers, board
members and parents; whenever the opportunity allows itself,
use the words Benedictine High School in a conversation at
least three times. The reinforcement of those words, Benedictine High School, and the context in which it was said will leave
a lasting impression on your audience.
Be proud of your association with Benedictine High School. Remember, all of us have a part in sharing our rich academics, our
long-lasting athletic traditions, and the excellence that Benedictine High School has been known for over 79 years. Now go
share the news, the stories, the excitement, the pride you have
in Benedictine.
W W W . C B H S . N E T
41
Staff Changes
Hall of Fame/Hall of Honors
T
I
he Advancement Department is proud to announce that Tom
Zagorski, Mr. Benedictine 2003, has recently been named
the new Alumni Coordinator. Many of our alumni are familiar
with Tom’s accomplishments and we know he will bring an
enthusiastic and passionate approach to the position. Please
feel free to call Tom in the alumni office and congratulate him on
his new position. We are confident that Tom’s personality, work
ethic and love for his alma mater will be key ingredients to a successful career at Benedictine. Congratulations Tom!
Throughout the hiring process, it was inspiring to see how many
people were interested in working at Benedictine High School,
including several young alumni. Our only disappointment is
that we don’t have more positions to offer these highly qualified
individuals. Perhaps with time, we will have more opportunities
available.
nduction ceremonies for the Hall of Fame/Hall of Honors
were scheduled to take place on March 31, 2008. After a
great deal of consideration and consultation with the HOF/HOH
committee chairs and the president of the alumni association, it
has been unanimously determined that the event will be postponed until March 2009. This has been a transitional year for
the Advancement Department and many key components critical
to the planning of this event were unavailable. Knowing that
this is a very important milestone in the life of our honorees, we
expect nothing less than the very best experience for all those
considered for this great achievement. To conduct this event
in a manner that is less than ideal would not be an acceptable
alternative. Thank you for your patience and understanding
regarding this important announcement.
Advancement Tip
D
As Tom begins his new role, the Advancement Department owes
a debt of gratitude to Patricia Cornacchione. Pat has been
acting as interim Alumni Coordinator since November of 2007.
Her years of experience in the field of advancement proved
invaluable to our efforts. Pat was able to integrate her skills in a
seamless manner, and we are all grateful for her presence here.
As the parent of a 2004 graduate (Michael), we know that Pat
will always be an important part of the Benedictine community.
Thank you Pat! All of us here at the “Home of Champions” wish
you the best of luck on your new endeavor.
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id you know that gifts of stocks, bonds, or mutual funds
that have appreciated in value could be the most advantageous way to give to Benedictine? By donating these types
of securities, you may receive an income tax deduction for the
fair market value of the stock (up to a maximum of 30% of your
adjusted gross income) as a charitable contribution and avoid
paying capital gains tax on the appreciated value of the stock.
To obtain the largest tax savings, use stock that has the lowest
cost basis, and that you have held for an extended period of
time (usually more than one year). Step-by-step instructions regarding the transfer of stock to Benedictine High School can be
found on the “Supporting Benedictine” web page at www.cbhs.
net. For any additional questions, please contact Joe Marino in
the advancement department at 216-421-2080 x357.
Alumni News
Class Reunion Time
CLASS NOTES
F
Class of 1949
or all classes ending in 3’s and 8’s, get ready for your
milestone class reunions in June. Reunion Weekend is June
27-28-29, 2008. Mark the dates on your calendar so you can
enjoy a memorable weekend with your friends and classmates
from Benedictine.
If you have any questions, contact the Alumni Office at (216)
421-2080 ext. 342 or at [email protected]. Information will be
mailed at a future date.
Class Photos Still Available
“O
ne of the most important things you need to know
about Benedictine High School is what’s above you.”
This is the opening of the building tours at every BHS Open
House, beginning in the first floor main hall. What is above those
curious parents and family members are the class photographs
of every Benedictine graduating class from 1931 to the present.
The tour guide continues, “If you’ve ever had the opportunity
to attend a Benedictine football, basketball, baseball or other
athletic game, you’ll see as many alumni as parents and families
of current students. The alumni are a very caring group of men.”
Several years ago the Alumni Association paid for the remounting and reframing of these class photos and offered the
Men of Benedictine the chance to sponsor a photo. A number of
class photos remain to be sponsored: ’35, ’36, ’38, ’39, ’41, ’42,
’43, ’45, ’49, ’50, ’52, ’53, ’55, ’58, ’70, ’71, ’72, ’75, ’77, ’79,
’80, ’82, ’84, ’92, ’93, ’95, ’97, ’03, ’04, ’05, and ’06.
We thank George Zurava ’56, Ted Schwalm ’65, Ed Kubek ’81
and Christopher Gibson ’07 for most recently sponsoring their
respective class photos. Ed Kubek and his brothers Paul ’85
and Mike ’88 also sponsored the 1946 class photo in memory
of their father, Edward J. Kubek ’46. We also thank again John
Keglovich ’86 for donating his time to reframe the photos, and
Greg Minotas ’69 for donating the nameplates for each frame.
Cost of sponsoring a class photo is $200. The nameplate will
display your name or the name of the person you wish to honor
or memorialize. If you want to step forward and sponsor a class
photo, contact the alumni Office at [email protected] or call
(216) 421-2080 ext. 342 for more information.
The alumni commitment of loyalty, tradition and giving that
the Men of Benedictine in the class photos perform yearly for the
students, the present Men of Benedictine, is a priceless legacy.
The 2007 Charity Game makes us ask, “remember when?” For
all of the graduates of 1949, you were the first class to beat
Latin in City Championships! Also, you were the only school to
win all three championships in baseball, football, and basketball
in the same year. Thanks for the memories!
Class of 1954
Bishop Roger W. Gries a veteran Sokol golfer, was presented
the Frank S. Petruff Memorial Sports Award at the banquet
of this year’s 52nd International Golf Tournament at Lakeview
Restaurant of Treasure Lake Golf Club and Country Club. The
festivities took place in DuBois Pennsylvania on the 25th of
August. This award is presented to an individual for exemplifying
qualities of dedication, leadership, and sportsmanship. Fellow
Benedictine Alum Fred Kabat 48’, has also been a recipient of
this award. Congratulations to both!
Hank Ott retired November 30, 2007 from the Ohio State
Lottery after 20 years as a system analyst. He was hired to
design, implement and maintain the instant ticket system. This
is the second time he has retired. His first retirement was from
AT&T as a system analyst in 1985.
Class of 1960
Paul K. Panehal retired again. Paul most recently retired from
Logistic Services International as Senior Logistic Analyst, Training
Systems Developer and Avionics Systems Repair Capabilities
Developer, in March of this year. He previously retired from
the U.S. Navy as an Avionics Master Chief with thirty years
of service in 1990. Paul has been stationed in a number of
places in the U.S. and around the world, including the Antarctic,
since leaving Cleveland. Paul’s initial occupational field was
aviation electronics, with the military, and has since earned a
Bachelor of Science in Aviation Management with a minor in
Education and two Master of Arts, Management and Human
Resource Development. Throughout his military and civilian
careers he has owned and operated P.K. Electronics as a side
occupation/hobby. He also found time to teach basic electricity
and electronics for the state of Florida’s adult education program
and for the Southern Illinois University’s off campus Bachelor of
Science Electronics Management Program as an adjunct Professor.
When most folks are satisfied to seek a single field or
goal, Paul has tried to satisfy his thirst for knowledge and
W W W . C B H S . N E T
43
accomplishment in many fields. A thirst created through Robert
Wilkes OSB, who was the principle of Benedictine High School
at the time. Paul has a number of hobbies. He enjoys building
electronic experiments, repairing computers and their programs
to fill his after retirement time.
He and his wife Pansy reside in Jacksonville Florida. They have
seven grown children, and thirteen grandchildren. Paul’s brother,
Donald Panehal ’61 operates a business in Lakewood Ohio.
Edward F. Holicky Jr. is married to Joan with four sons: Richard,
Gregory, Edward, and Andrew. He lives in Burnet Texas and is a
parishioner of Our Mother of Sorrows. He has been retired from
Dell Computers for a little over two years after working at Dell for
eight and a half years after retiring from IBM after twenty-eight
years. In June of 2008 he will have been an ordained permanent
deacon for ten years. He has five grandchildren: Tiffany,
Gabriella, Allison, Edward, and Amanda.
Frank Kolo would love to hear from fellow alums. Frank is a
double-leg amputee and currently at The Patrician Skilled Nursing
Center in North Royalton OH. Any letters, cards, or calls would be
appreciated. You can write to him at: The Patrician Skilled Nursing
Center, 9001 W. 130th Street, North Royalton, OH 44133.
Kenneth J. Jakubecz received a kidney transplant in September
of 2007 from his niece Lauren Marschall. Both of them are doing
very well and everything is working now. Lauren Marschall is the
daughter of Jack Marschall 71’. Kenneth is married to Patricia
with two children and resides in Cleveland. He is also retired and
a parishioner of St. Thomas More.
Class of 1971
Jack Marschall, of channel 5 news, and his daughter Lauren
Marschall both donated kidneys August 11, 2007. Jack’s brotherin-law needed the transplant, but the two were incompatible.
Jack’s daughter Lauren was compatible so she donated her kidney
to the brother-in-law and Jack donated to a stranger. The father
and daughter went through the surgery together and they hope
that this inspires others to help the same way that they did.
Class of 1975
Edward Seitz has been married to Margaret for 14 years, no
children. Currently Edward’s company, Seitz Technologies of
Midlothian, Virginia, specializes in the installation and service of
communications and data network systems in the Virginia area.
In 2002 Edward’s company developed an online ticketing
company called Ticketstobuy.com. Since then, the online
W E
A R E
Class of 1983
James F. Riley was re-elected to the Independence City council
in the November 2007 elections.
Class of 1987
Mike Powers has created a website for his nephew who is
undergoing aggressive chemo therapy to remove brain tumors.
The family’s insurance company changed their coverage plan and
the cost is now being covered as “out of network” making the
out of pocket expense substantially higher. The website is: www.
seamusoconnor.org. Please donate to help cover the medical
costs to cure Seamus.
Class of 1989
William Carcelli, along with brother Daniel Carcelli 91’, are living
in Russell Ohio. Their brother Louis Carcelli 86’, is building a house
about 6.5 miles away in Russell as well. Daniel has three kids,
Morgan, Daniel, and Gabriella. Louis has two children, Gianna and
Isabella. William has two children, Jake and Joe ages 5 and 4.
Class of 1993
Class of 1966
44
company provides ticketing and ticket printing systems for
concerts and events on the entire East Coast.
B E N E D I C T I N E
Daniel Mcnamara, along with his wife Kristina and daughters,
Shelley and Kelly, have moved out of their base home that
is getting knocked down, into a new base home in Capehart
Housing. The girls had their picnic the community puts on every
year for the homeschoolers. The girls are back in gymnastics.
Shelley is going to be in choir with the homeschoolers. Both
girls will be in two different homeschool book clubs and will be
participating in Enrichment classes with other homeschoolers
once a week to help supplement certain subjects.
Class of 1998
Anthony Ferrara, and his wife Julie just had their first child June
10, 2007. Her name is Hailey Ann Ferrara. Congratulations!
Class of 2002
Fred Weiss wed Liz Malloni in September of 2007. The couple
resides in Akron Ohio.
Class of 2003
Bill Cosgrove has just been confirmed for volunteer training
with the peace corpse. He began in August in Washington
DC. He was in Bolivia for two and a half months after that
in training. In the end of November he will be moving to his
actual volunteer sight.
In His Own Write
Discovering Benedictine’s Own Terry Pluto and His Fame
by Joe Fox ’08 and Steven Elliott ’08
W
hich Bennet editor has won over 50 awards, written
over 20 books and is a nationally acclaimed sportswriter? If you guessed current Bennet editor Chuck Tillie,
you are incorrect. The right answer is Terry Pluto, Class of ’73,
who recently came in to talk with the staff of The Bennet about
journalism and faith.
Born in 1955, Pluto grew up in Cleveland and enrolled at Benedictine in 1968. In his freshman year, he read the book Of Mice
and Men, by John Steinbeck, a profound experience for him.
“I thought, ‘Man, this is life. If I could just
tell stories like this!’” said Pluto. It gave him the
inspiration to become a journalist.
Pluto’s English teacher, Jim Muth, also happened to be the adviser to The Bennet, and gave
him an outlet for his creativity through the
newspaper. It was working with The Bennet that
helped Pluto begin to develop the strong writing
skills that would lead him to a long and productive career in sports journalism. And what advice
does Pluto have for young Bengals much like
himself?
“Go for it! Don’t let negative people tell you
you can’t do it.”
After Pluto left Benedictine, he did go for it. He
graduated from Cleveland State University and then
began to write for The Plain Dealer in 1979, covering the Cleveland Indians. The job allowed Pluto
the opportunity to have his work seen by millions
of people and share his talent with them.
“To see a story I’ve written and to see someone reading it in
the paper -- it’s so cool!” Pluto said, when asked about the thrill of
being a member of the media.
In 1985 Pluto started covering the Cavaliers for The Akron Beacon Journal, and became a columnist in 1993. Not long after that,
the awards began to come. Even with all the success, Pluto still
remained excited about journalism itself.
“I get paid to go to a ballgame!” Pluto said. In 2005, Pluto was
inducted into the Cleveland Journalism Hall of Fame, and this
past September he returned to The Plain Dealer, and so far, he
enjoys the new job.
“I like it here because I have more time to write stories,” he said.
Pluto’s stories have done more for him than pay the bills. In addition to winning over 50 state and local awards, he’s been nominated for the Pulitzer Prize twice and has won the Ohio Sportswriter
of the Year award eight times. The Associted Press Sports Editors
have also twice named him the best sports columnist in the nation
for medium sized newspapers.
Outside of newspapers, Mr. Pluto has written more than 20
books, mostly about sports. One of these, Loose Balls, was ranked
thirteenth in the Sports Illustrated top 100
sports books of all time.
According to Pluto, websites like ESPN.com
get 6 million hits every day.
“We’re in a society that can’t get enough
media,” Pluto said of his field “The opportunities
for writers are phenomenal… There will always
be a market for writers, and there will always be
stuff to write.”
He always encourages young journalists to
try for their dreams and not to become discouraged. Pluto was originally rejected for an
internship at The Plain Dealer, but he continued to write and eventually got a job.
“Being in the media is a lot like being a
minor-league ballplayer. You usually don’t get
right to the top.”
Pluto’s writing can be found almost every day in
The Plain Dealer, and every Sunday, he has his own
page, ‘Terry’s Talkin’.”
Pluto also writes a religion column called “Faith and
You” that appears every other Saturday. Since his father
had a stroke some years ago, faith has become a growing
part of his life. These columns have dealt with issues we all face
including gossip, fear, and persistence.
“I write as much about my failures as my triumphs, because that
is what a life of faith is about,” Pluto said in one of his books, also
titled Faith and You.
“Terry’s always been able to find the humanity in his sports
stories. His writing is about people and their struggles, which
makes it so powerful,” said journalism teacher Mark Francioli, who
worked with Pluto on The Bennet.
“It’s a great field to be in,” Pluto said of journalism “In the end, what
really lights my fire is writing a story in the paper for people to read.”
W W W . C B H S . N E T
45
Family Tradition
S
ince 1987, there has been at least one Zulandt brother at
Benedictine every single year, with the exception of the 200405 school year. There have been few, if any, other families to match
the Zulandt’s numbers to attend Benedictine.
Michael ‘97 graduated from Duke University in 2001 and the
University of Michigan with a JD degree in 2005. He is living in
New York City area and works for the law firm of Cravath, Swaine
and Moore.
Bob and Sue Zulandt of Chardon have sent their sons to Benedictine for more than 20 years. With their last son, David ‘09, they
still have two more years to enjoy the Benedictine experience.
Joseph ‘00 graduated from Bowling Green State University in
2005 and is pursuing his career in Graphic Arts.
When their oldest son Robert ‘91 was selecting a high school to
attend, the family thoroughly researched their options. The all-male
environment, the campus grounds and the number of religious teachers
were key reasons for selecting Benedictine High School.
It hasn’t always been easy. “On a good day, it’s at least a 45minute one-way commute to and from Benedictine. Usually, it takes
about one hour,” said Sue Zulandt.
“My husband Bob and I don’t regret our decision and our sons’
decision to attend and graduate from Benedictine,” said Sue. “Our
sons said that the education they received at Benedictine was excellent, and challenging. However, without that tough training, they
would have never achieved the success that they are enjoying now.
Benedictine has been very good to our family.”
While the Zulandt brothers all choose to begin their journey at
Benedictine, they all have taken different paths after graduation.
Robert, a 1991 graduate, attended Allegheny College for his
undergraduate degree and earned his JD degree from Cleveland
Marshall Law School. He is working in downtown Cleveland at the
law firm of Ulmer and Berne.
Matthew, who attended Benedictine during his freshman and
sophomore years, graduated from Allegheny College in 2005.
Thomas ‘02 graduated from Bowling Green State University in
2006 and will be attending the Ohio State University Veterinary
School this fall.
Daniel ‘04 is a senior at Wake Forest University, on the Dean’s
List, and wants to pursue advanced degrees in Archeology.
David ‘09 is presently a junior at Benedictine, class vice-president
and has earned varsity letters in football and track.
In addition, the Zulandt brothers are very proud of their two
sisters’ accomplishments. Bob’s twin sister, Rebecca, graduated
from Allegheny College and received her Doctorate in Biology from
Bowling Green State University. Katherine just graduated from
Beaumont School and will be attending George Washington University in Washington, DC this fall on a full volleyball scholarship
So, it is safe to say that when David graduates, Benedictine will
still be a major part of the Zulandt family.
“The monks have performed the wedding ceremonies of our
sons, christened our grandchildren and offered us comfort when
our sons Dan and Tom were in a serious car crash a few years ago,”
added Sue.
Here’s a photo taken of the brothers at Matthew’s wedding to Kristen
Mitch in September 2006. Benedictine Latin teacher Fr. Bede was the
main celebrant at the wedding. Fr. Bede also married Bob in 2001 and
his sister Rebecca in 1999.
(From left): Joseph ‘00, Thomas ‘02, Michael ‘97, Matthew, Daniel ‘04
David ‘09, and Robert ‘91
46
W E
A R E
B E N E D I C T I N E
Deceased Alumni
Remembering Ed Stakolich ‘49
E
d Stakolich had many great moments as a Bengal, maybe
none so grand as being a member of the first Benedictine
football team to beat rival Cathedral Latin, catapulting the
Bengal’s to its first Charity game victory against South High. So
it was fitting that Stakolich died watching his beloved Bengal’s renew its rivalry with Latin in the Charity Game on August 19, 2007.
During his days as a Bengal, he was an instrumental player in
helping Benedictine win city championships in three different
sports in 1948. In March 1948, he scored a game-high 16
points as Benedictine defeated Lincoln at the old Cleveland
Arena for the city basketball crown. Then in June he played
shortstop on the Bengal nine that whipped Holy Name for the
city baseball title. Stakolich was a sure-handed receiver when
Benedictine defeated South High 7-0 in front of 45,117 fans at
old Cleveland Stadium on November 27, 1948, to become the
first school in the Cleveland Senate to hold city championships
in all three major sports at the same time. He earned seven
varsity letters, three in baseball and two each in basketball and
football. He was elected Student Council President his senior
year But it was more than just athletics that earned this great
man a spot in the Benedictine Hall of Fame. Ed was a man
who understood and lived by the principles that embody the
Benedictine spirit.
A true family man, Ed raised nine children along with his wife of
55 years, Patricia. Ed also was a grandfather of 16 and greatgrandfather of three. Ed understood how important family is
and considered spending time with his family one of his favorite
hobbies (which also include golf, music and art).
“ I was fortunate to get to know Ed during our days at TRW”
said Ray Martin ’54. “ He was a great athlete throughout his
life and we played softball together for years. He was a good
friend and the God father to my son Tim. I actually talked with
him the day he died while he was watching the Bengal’s play
Latin on tv in the Charity game.”
A brilliant mechanical engineer, Ed worked for TRW and NASA.
O
ur thoughts and prayers are extended to the
families of our deceased alumni. Eternal rest
grant unto them O Lord. And let the perpetual light
shine upon them. May they rest in peace. Amen.
It is not uncommon to make a contribution in memory
of a deceased classmate or friend. You can memorialize a deceased classmate and friend with a gift to the
Benedictine Alumni Association. You can earmark your
gift to one of the following: Alumni Association Endowment, Benedictine High School endowment, Benedictine
Scholarship Fund (Bishop Roger/Bossu/Rufus Fund)
or other.
We commend to your prayers the following alumni who
have died as notified to us since the last issue of the Ora.
(The following list is as current as 01/31/08).
Class Of
1941
1946
1947
1947
1947
1948
1948
1948
1948
1949
1949
1951
1951
1953
1953
1955
1955
1956
1956
1958
1975
Name
Joseph P. Chulak
William A. Hlivak
Edward Bellovay
Joseph J. Dvorak
James A. Schmotzer
Richard J. Diturno
Rudolph E. Koletic
Albert S. Krsacok
Donald Skala
Stanley A. Nowacki
Edward G. Stakolich
Fred A. Radon
Joseph J. Yanosko
John J. Kozlevchar
Anthony A. Mariola
Ray Bartnikowski
Robert J. Walsh
John R. Miskovich
Joseph L. Palinkas
Richard J. Hoegler
James M. Lavrenchik
Ed was inducted into the Benedictine Hall of Fame in 1994,
and with him we lost a wonderful piece of the great Benedictine
legacy. Our community remembers Ed with many fond memories, he will be missed.
W W W . C B H S . N E T
47
Non-profit org.
U.S. Postage
PAID
Benedictine High School
St. Andrew Abbey/Benedictine High School
2900 M. L. King Drive
Cleveland, OH 44104 - 4898
Change Service Requested
It is nearing time for Benedictine’s
6th Annual Blue and White Gala.
What is it?
Our special evening will begin with a Silent Auction, followed by a
delicious meal catered by Ristorante Giovanni’s. We will then honor
some special guests, Fr. Dominic, OSB ’60 (retired teacher/former
principal) and the Russo Brothers (Emmy Award winning TV/movie
directors). The evening will be topped off with a live auction and
special entertainment.
When is it?
This year’s event will be held on Saturday, April 19, 2008.
Where is it?
In the Trueman Fieldhouse on the Benedictine campus.
Why is it held?
Gala proceeds fund scholarships for families in need of tuition
assistance. This year alone Benedictine will provide $640,000 to
students who require help. This event provides significant support to
that endeavor.
How can I help?
Volunteer – much help is need before, during and after the event.
Offer your time and talents to help the night be a success. Download
the volunteer form on the Benedictine website and send it in to say
you will help.
Plan to attend – individual tickets are $100 and various levels
of corporate sponsorship are available. Register on-line using your
credit card or download and mail the reservation and sponsorship
forms.
Donate - Give an item, gift certificate or cash donation for our silent
or live auction or raffles. All gifts are tax deductible and donors will
be listed in the event program to show their support. Donation forms
are also available on the website.
Spread the word - Tell others about this entertaining evening that
benefits the Men of Benedictine!
All Gala forms can be found at www.cbhs.net/gala.htm
This year, Benedictine celebrates 81 years as a Cleveland institution,
providing quality Catholic education to students of Greater Cleveland.
Throughout our proud history, we have brought together young men
from virtually every walk of life.
We believe that the values,
tradition and leadership they
experience here will transform
them that they may someday
change the world. With your
help, our vision will become
a reality! Support the 6th
Annual Blue and White Gala!