Winter 2015/2016 Don Bosco Prep Magazine

Don Bosco Prep
Winter 2015/16 Magazine
Founded 1915
Includes
Annual Report
2014-15
Don Bosco Prep
492 N. Franklin Turnpike
Ramsey, NJ 07446
201-327-8003
www.donboscoprep.org
Published by Don Bosco Prep
Editor and Designer: Rue Eisen
Photographers: Rue Eisen, Sue Fecht,
Veronica Cutter, Steven Ebert,
Br. Joe Ackroyd and photo contributors.
ADMINISTRATION
Fr. James Heuser, SDB
Director/President
John Stanczak
Principal
Fr. John Janko, SDB
Vice Director/Facilities Manager
Kristine Byrne, P'09, '10
Assistant Principal for Academics
Edward Nekel ‘68
Assistant Principal of Student Affairs
Fr. Matthew DeGance, SDB
Coordinator of Youth Ministry
Chris Donnelly ‘92
Director of Admissions
Michael Pender
Finance Director
Carmela Raiti P ‘05
Vice President for Institutional Advancement
Thomas DeLucci
Director of Guidance
Brian McAleer
Director of Athletics
Rue Eisen
Director of Public Relations
Mark Siemon
Director of Technology
Fr. Louis Konopelski
Local Council Member
©2015 Don Bosco Prep
Don Bosco Prep Magazine is published by
Don Bosco Prep, 492 N. Franklin Turnpike,
Ramsey, NJ 07446
Don Bosco Prep has received recognition
for this magazine from the National
Catholic Development Council.
Updated rendering of planned 60 seat prayer chapel and Dr. Scanlon Plaza at Immaculata Hall.
Don Bosco Prep
Winter 2015/16 Magazine
Contents
4.
7.
8.
10.
11.
13.
14.
18.
22.
24.
30.
32.
34.
43.
Timothy Cardinal Dolan Honors DBP
2016 National Merit Scholars
Advanced Placement Scholars
National Honor Society
2014/15 Academic Awards
Alumni Centennial Family Day
Centennial Day and the Centennial President’s Gala
Centennial Campaign Update
Environmental Initiative: Sustain 350
Campus News
Class Notes
Reunions
Ironman Athletics
Annual Report 2014/2015
Cover photo: Kevin Schroeder, Class of 2016 and James Broderick, Class of 2016
were photographed with Timothy Cardinal Dolan at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New
York, NY in September. Photo by Mrs. Jeanmarie Broderick.
Omissions from last issue: DBP History
The Baseball Team won the State Championship in 1979.
The Crew Team was founded by a group of dedicated parents in 2003.
Message from the
Director/President
Dear Alumni, Parents and Friends,
T
he Centennial Year of Don Bosco Prep has drawn
to a close, after a series of wonderful celebratory
events this past fall. This issue of our magazine
presents each of them, and much more.
The first event featured is the Inauguration of the 101st
Academic Year with a Mass celebrated by Timothy
Cardinal Dolan, Archbishop of New York. Irrepressibly
congenial, the Cardinal actually shook the hands of each
of our 850 students, and was so inspiring and gracious.
Next presented is the Alumni Centennial Family Day held
in late September. From start to finish, it was a joyful
gathering of alumni families and friends for food and
games, a beautiful Mass celebrated by Bishop John O’Hara
(’63), and two enjoyable football games.
And finally highlighted is the Centennial Day we
celebrated to close out the year. The 9th Successor of Don
Bosco, Very Rev. Pascual Chávez, joined us from Rome to
honor our first century of Salesian service of the young. A
day of faith and fun with the students was followed by the
Centennial Year President’s Gala in the evening. A large
crowd gathered to honor groups and persons who have
significantly impacted the school over the years.
To the boys during the day, Fr. Pascual directed us forward
with these words:
“… while we thank the Lord for the gift he has given us
Fr. James Heuser, SDB, Director/President
through this Salesian House, so full of glorious history and
very fruitful at an educative, pastoral and vocational level,
we want to draw from Don Bosco the inspiration and the
strength to do whatever we are called upon to do for the next
century of Don Bosco Prep in Ramsey.”
And to the many educators, parents, alumni and friends in
the evening, Fr. Pascual voiced similar words:
“… it is not enough to remember and remain grateful. This
Jubilee should make every one of you much more committed
to the present, facing with courage the current challenges,
especially those of the young people and their education. We
can do that by making our own the great choices of Don
Bosco: believing in young people, making them protagonists
and not mere consumers, fostering an education of high
quality, promoting the preventive system, and creating synergy
among all the admirers and friends of Don Bosco. This is
the best way to embrace also the future with hope. You have
already written golden pages of history throughout 100 years.
You have still centuries ahead.”
With these words ringing in our ears, let us together go
forward into our second century with great hope, all for
the sake of the young.
Gratefully yours,
Father James Heuser, SDB
Director/President
Winter 2015/16 / 3
Cardinal Dolan
Cardinal Dolan Honors DBP
By Celebrating Centennial
By Rue Eisen
T
he arrival of Timothy Cardinal Dolan, Archbishop of New
York, to the campus of Don Bosco Prep in Ramsey on
Monday, September 14, was much anticipated by the
students, parents, alumni, and faculty celebrating the centennial of the school’s founding in 1915.
Timothy Cardinal Dolan Blesses F
Timothy Cardinal Dolan greeted students on the morning of September 14.
Upon his arrival at 9:00 a.m., Cardinal Dolan immediately shook the
hands of students who had been directing parents, alumni, and other
guests coming to attend the school year’s opening Mass.
Cardinal Dolan proceeded to the area where a new multi-use
education center will be built in 2016-2017, blessed the site, and
greeted more alumni, parents, and donors. He was surrounded by
students from all four grades.
The school is in the process of a centennial fund raising campaign,
and to date has raised $8.2 million toward its goal of $10 million for
the new building.
The cardinal explained, “Whenever we look to advance the
education and evangelization of the young to serve them better, we
are, as Don Bosco would say, collaborating with Almighty God.” He
continued, “Oh God, grant that the centennial construction project we
are now undertaking for your glory and for Don Bosco Prep’s future,
may progress day by day to its successful completion and through
your grace, contribute to the salvation of the young in the coming
years.”
4 / Don Bosco Prep
Cardinal Dolan Delivers Homily
“Whenever we look to advance
the education and evangelization
of the young to serve them better,
we are, as Don Bosco would say,
collaborating with Almighty God.”
Timothy Cardinal Dolan
Cardinal Dolan Honors continued
His Eminence then blessed a medal of the school’s patrons, St.
John Bosco and Mary Help of Christians, and placed it in the ground
to consecrate the site. He and students from all four grades took turns
with a shovel to cover the medal. They were joined by Auxiliary Bishop
John O’Hara of New York, a 1963 graduate of Don Bosco Prep. During
his homily, Cardinal Dolan told the congregants that they have four
reasons to rejoice.
“First,” he said, “you have a first-rate faculty here teaching first-rate
Future Building Site
students.”
“Second,” he said, “I had the honor of blessing the site this morning
for the new expansion of the school, and that is a sign about hope and
the future.”
“Third, we continue to celebrate the 200th anniversary of your
patron saint, St. John Bosco.” He added, “I love the Salesians very
much, and this gives me a chance to thank the Salesians of St. John
Bosco and St. John Bosco himself.”
“Fourth,” he concluded, “this is the year of the centennial of Don
Bosco Prep, which is the flagship of the Salesian schools in North
America. You have 100 years to be proud of!”
He explained, “Don Bosco Prep is so unabashedly strong in
educating not only the mind and body of its students, but also the
spirit.” He asked that the students follow what Jesus said in Matthew
Timothy Cardinal Dolan greeted students as they
entered Immaculata Hall for the Opening Mass.
16:24, “Then Jesus said to His disciples, ‘If anyone wishes to come
after me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross and follow me.’”
Cardinal Dolan told the boys further that “some day you will
As Cardinal Dolan entered Immaculata
encounter sorrow or loss in your lives, and you will have the
Hall to celebrate the year-opening Mass in the
opportunity to take up the cross of Jesus.” He suggested that the
gym, he held his crozier in his left hand, and
students make the Sign of the Cross every morning and evening,
shook hands with the school’s students as they
because, as he said, “what we are doing is tracing the cross on our
entered. About 1,250 people, including the
very persons.” s director/president Fr. Jim Heuser,
school’s 850 students, were in attendance.
Winter 2015/16 / 5
Cardinal Dolan Honors continued
He told them that people of faith are a threat to those who would
prefer something passive. At the end of Mass, Don Bosco Prep’s
Director/President Fr. Jim Heuser, together with former Director Fr.
Gerry Sesto and former Principal Dr. James Scanlon, presented the
Cardinal with a statue of St. John Bosco. Fr. Heuser also presented
a Don Bosco Prep alumni baseball cap to Bishop John O’Hara, ’63,
“so that he will be properly vested for the Alumni Centennial Family
Day on September 26.”
The Cardinal requested that he be invited back to the school for
the opening of the new education center in two years. He said, “I’d
like to throw out the first pitch.”
Archbishop John O’Hara ‘63, left, and Cardinal Dolan, right, deliver the
Eucharist and bless congregants at the Opening Mass.
Fr. James Heuser, center, shows the renderings of the new school building
to Cardinal Dolan, left, and Archbishop John O’Hara ‘63, right.
Cardinal Dolan greets the students, faculty, parents, alumni and guests as
he enters Immaculata Hall Gymnasium for the Opening Mass.
6 / Don Bosco Prep
Fr. Gerry Sesto accompanied by Dr. Scanlon presented a statue of St.
John Bosco to Cardinal Dolan.
Freshman Marty Alexander, acting as the ambassador for all four grades,
asked for a Cardinal’s and a Bishop’s day off. He was granted both!
Academic Honors
ppp
Congratulations 2016 National Merit Scholars!
Semifinalist Dylan Cordaro and Eight Commended Students are recognized
P
rincipal John Stanczak is pleased to announce
Students take the Preliminary SAT/National Merit
that senior Dylan Cordaro has been recognized
Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT), which
as a National Merit Semifinalist. National Merit
examines them on critical reading, mathematics, and
Semifinalists are academically talented high
writing skills, during their junior year in high school which
school seniors, who will have an opportunity to continue
qualifies as an initial screening of the approximately 1.5
to compete for approximately 7,400 National Merit
million annual entrants.
Scholarships worth more than $32 million that will be
offered in the spring.
Nationally, approximately 5% of these students qualify as
commended scholars and 16,000 students (one-third of
In addition, eight Don Bosco Prep seniors have been
the 50,000 highest scorers) qualify as semifinalists on a
recognized as Commended Students in the 2016
state representational basis. Semifinalists can then apply
National Merit Program. They are: Ted Chung, Jordan
for NMS Scholarships through their high schools.
Giordano, Jeffrey Lieto, Kevin Lu, Luke Novak, Brian
Rhee, Christopher Rylkov, and John Paul Salci.
Principal John Stanczak with National Merit Commended Scholars Brian Rhee, Ted Chung, John Paul Salci,
Christopher Rylkov, National Merit Semifinalist Dylan Cordaro, Jeffrey Lieto, Kevin Lu, Luke Novak, and Jordan Giordano.
Winter 2015/16 / 7
Academic Honors
ppp
Congratulations 48 Advanced Placement Scholars!
This roster shows all students who earned an AP
AP Scholars with Distinction: 15
Scholar Award in 2015. The AP Program offers several
National AP Scholar*: 2
AP Scholar Awards to recognize high school students
AP Scholar Average Score: 3.53
who have demonstrated college-level achievement
AP Scholar with Honor Average Score: 3.90
through AP courses and exams.
AP Scholar with Distinction Average Score: 4.21
Total Scholars: 48; Average Score: 3.97
National AP Scholar Average Score*: 4.84
AP Scholars: 26
*Note: The College Board lists National AP Scholars as
AP Scholars with Honor: 7
AP Scholars with Distinction as well.
National AP Scholars
AP Scholars with Distinction (continued)
Granted to students in the United States who receive an
Peter G. D’Almeida 2015
average score of at least 4 on all AP Exams taken, and
Anthony V. DePinho 2015
scores of 4 or higher on eight or more of these exams.
Shawn F. Diertl 2015
Alexander E. Flores 2015
Alexander E. Flores 2015
Kang Woo Kim
Kang Woo Kim 2015
2015
Kevin Lee 2015
AP Scholars with Distinction
Thomas Lucido 2015
Granted to students who receive an average score of at least
Kevin McFadden 2015
3.5 on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 3 or higher on five
Constante J. Palad 2015
or more of these exams.
Christopher J. Puntasecca 2015
Nicholas P. Adams 2015
Christopher F. Russo 2015
Matthew J. Barker 2015
Matthew T. Stranzl 2015
Michael T. Bigley 2015
8 / Don Bosco Prep
AP Scholars with Honor
AP Scholars (continued)
Granted to students who receive an average score of at least 3.25
Edward F. Hayes 2015
on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 3 or higher on four or more
Jack A. Judge
of these exams.
Gabriel M. Lartigue 2016
Jack S. Dalzell 2015
Sean R. Lee
Alexandro Forte 2015
Christopher M. Letherbarrow
Anthony R. Gonnello 2015
Jeffrey J. Lieto
Liam J. McCormack 2015
Kevin Lu
Christopher M. Park 2015
Connor J. Mudrick 2016
Joshua Perez 2015
Luke Novak 2016
Paul L. Potenza 2015
John O’Donnell 2015
2015
2016
2016
2016
2016
Timothy R. Pierce 2016
AP Scholars
Jonathan R. Ramirez
Granted to students who receive scores of 3 or higher on three or
Brian P. Rhee
more AP Exams.
John Paul Salci
2016
Dylan J, Cordaro 2016
Alex V. Sanders
2015
Ethan T. Cordaro 2016
Carmine J. Stabile 2016
Andrew J. Delzotto 2015
John Tawil 2015
Gabriel D. Garofalo 2015
Donovan J. Tucker
Jordan C. Giordano 2016
Victor A. Ulizko
Douglas J. Hauser, Jr. 2015
Christopher P. Walker 2015
2016
2016
2015
2015
Class of 2016 AP Scholars: Brian Rhee, Timothy Pierce, Connor Mudrick, Gabriel Lartigue, Ethan Cordero, Christopher Letherbarrow, Carmine Stabile,
Jonathan Ramirez, Principal John Stanczak, John Paul Salci, Jeffrey Lieto, Jordan Giordano, Sean Lee, Kevin Lu, Dylan Cordaro, Luke Novak.
Winter 2015/16 / 9
Academic Honors
National Honor Society
ppp
Character . Scholarship . Leadership . Service
Induction ceremonies for the National Honor Society were held on Tuesday, October 27. Members of the junior
and senior classes were inducted based upon faculty recommendations for character, scholarship, leadership and
service. Mr. John Darcy, Theology Teacher, was the keynote speaker. Congratulations to all new members!
Class of 2016
John Quill
John Ligenza
John Romei
Michael Luberto
Ryan Brown
Gabriel Rubio
Kyle McCabe
Gregory Shaw
Ian McCormack
Michael Stanziale
Matthew McGovern
Richard Thorpe
John McLaughlin
Antonio Tirri
Ryan McLinskey
Kevin White
Jesse Mingalone
James Broderick
Anthony Buccino
Damon Catello
Renato Cocucci
Christian Curcio
Abelard Desrosiers
Joseph Downing
Robert Fitzer
Taimu Ito
Matthew Johns
Chang Hwan Lee
Christopher Letherbarrow
Louis Longobardo
Deven LoSchiavo
Christopher Mazzella
William McNicholas
Charlie Mezini
Omar Mostafa
Justin Murad
John Nicastro
Class of 2017
Kevin Moore
Michael Moscatt
Matthew Agrusti
Kristian Neuschwanter
Brendan Arminio
Brett O’Connor
Charles Bagin
Raymond Pellicano
Charles Bisset
Mark Settles, Jr.
Robert Cieszkowski
Ryan Stefanacci
Evan DeLuise
Sean Stouffer
Jeremy Farraye
Austin Tchikatilov
Brian Frank
Justin Touhey
Anthony Gaglia
Peter Walker
Daniel Garcia
John Michael Walsh
Robert Hunter
Ryan Kivlehan
Teacher Jaclyn Dickerson,
Principal John Stanczyk,
Jonathan Ramirez ‘16,
Kyle Beirdumpfel ‘16,
Luke Novak ‘16,
Dylan Cordero ‘16, and
Teachers Lisa Bylicki and
John Darcy.
10 / Don Bosco Prep
Academic Awards Ceremony
The Academic Award Ceremony for 2014-15 underclassmen was held on September 24, 2015.
Congratulations to all students on their achievements!
English
Composition and Literature
Gold
William Wantuch
Silver Michael James
Bronze Jonathan Tercasio
American Literature
Gold Charles Bagin
Silver Raymond Pellicano
Bronze Kyle Smith
British Literature
Gold
Gavin Adin
Silver Kyle Bierdumpfel
Bronze Alexander Zeepvat
AP English Language
Gold
Dylan Cordaro
Silver Luke Novak
Bronze John Paul Salci
Math
Algebra I
Gold
Matt Lombardi
Silver Noah Suttora
Bronze Liam Murray
Algebra II
Gold
Matt Lengua
Silver John Ligenza
Bronze Robert Hunter
Adv. Algebra II/Trig Honors
Gold
Charles Bagin
Silver Stephen Tse
Bronze Michael Moscatt
Geometry
Gold
Henry Pizzo
Silver Michael Luberto
Bronze Nicholas Wiley
Adv. Geometry Honors
Gold
Erik (Andrew) Olsen
Silver Timothy D’Arpino
Bronze David Ramirez
Pre-Calculus
Gold
Jonathan Ramirez
Silver John Paul Salci
Bronze AJ La Barbiera
Adv. Pre-Calculus H
Gold
Dylan Cordaro
Silver Shane Phillips
Bronze Brian Rhee
Science
Biology
Gold
Aaron Bohlinger
Silver Erik Olsen
Bronze David Ramirez
Chemistry
Gold
R. Cieszkowski
Silver Matt Lengua
Bronze Kyle Smith
AP Chemistry
Gold
Dylan Cordaro
Silver Charles Bagin
Bronze Ray Pellicano
Physics
Gold
Patrick Daly
Silver Enzemdi Alalonu
Bronze Michael Shea
History
World History
Gold
Michael Loftus
Silver David Ramirez
Bronze William Wantuch
American History I
Gold
Joseph Carrier
Silver Steven Almafiltano
Bronze Curt Hapward
Adv. US History I
Gold
Michael Moscatt
Silver Ian McCormack
Bronze Raymond Pellicano
American History II
Gold
Anthony Buccino
Silver James Broderick
Bronze Tim Patterson
World Languages
Mandarin Chinese I
Gold
Thomas Icarangal
Silver Nick Sarastano
Bronze Quinn Hogan
Mandarin Chinese II
Gold
Logan Springer
Silver Kevin Tang
Bronze Kirk Tigue
French IV
Gold Stephen Tse
Silver Patrick Daly
Bronze Santiago Garcia
German IV
Gold
Kyle Bierdumpfel
Silver Tristan Morris
Bronze Moritz Eisold
Spanish I
Gold
James Klein
Silver Michael Geraci
Bronze Roshan Dane
Spanish II
Gold
Charles Bagin
Silver Daniel Garcia
Bronze Michael James
Spanish III
Gold
Raymond Pellicano
Silver Jeffrey Lieto
Bronze Ethan Diaz
Spanish IV
Gold
Luke Novak
Silver Zach Miraz
Bronze Martin Boyle
Italian I
Gold
Richard Minicus
Silver Ethan Ciarmarella
Bronze Chris Rauchet
(continued on next page)
AP US History
Gold
Sean Lee
Silver
Christopher Letherbarrow
Bronze Renato Cocucci
Winter 2015/16 / 11
Academic Award Ceremony for the 2014-15 School Year
September 24, 2015
World languages (continued)
Italian II
Gold
Anthony Gaglia
Silver
Joseph Morelli
Bronze Stephen Amalfitano
Italian III
Gold
Jonathan Ramirez
Silver Vitaly Jangols
Bronze Justin Touhey
Italian IV
Gold
Tyler Zanki
Silver Joe Tercasio
Bronze Connor Mudrick
Latin I
Gold
Erik Olsen
Silver Aaron Bohlinger
Bronze Griffin Darcey
Latin II
Gold
Rob Cieszkowski
Silver Will Baliatico
Bronze Sean Stouffer
Latin III
Gold
Ian McCormack
Silver Tim Pierce
Bronze Kevin Moore
Fine/Performing Arts
Art 9
Gold
Justin DeFabritis
Silver Peyton Rice
Bronze Matt Costanzo
Art 10
Gold
Zaiir Talmedge
Silver Santiago Garcia
Bronze Nick Miller
Studio Art I
Gold
Michael Stragapede
Silver Parker Stone
Bronze Ryan Skae
12 / Don Bosco Prep
Chorus
Gold
Justin Murad
Silver Jeffrey Lieto
Bronze David Ramirez
Band
Gold
Sean Stouffer
Silver
Ezemdi Akalona
Bronze Charlie Mezini
Orchestra/String
Gold
Noah Lee
Silver David Ramirez
Bronze Ted Chung
Introduction to Music 10
Gold
Ethan Scimeca
Silver Kristian Neuschwanter
Bronze Danny Unaucho
Introduction to Music 11
Gold
Ryan Perle
Silver David Mercado
Bronze Michael Maietti
Computer
Theology 10
Gold
Matt Lengua
Silver Ian McCormack
Bronze Thomas Stika
Theology 11
Gold
Liam O’Hara
Silver Sean Lee
Bronze Michael Shea
General Excellence
Grade 9
Gold
Erik Olsen
Silver Michael James
Bronze Michael Geraci
Grade 10
Gold
Charles Bagin
Silver Ray Pellicano
Bronze Stephen Tse
Grade 11
Gold
Dylan Cordaro
Silver Jeffrey Lieto
Bronze Brian Rhee
Visual Basic
Gold
Dylan Cordaro
Silver Mark Cruz
Bronze Dylan Sonzogni
Computer Applications
Gold
Scott Frank
Silver William Wantuch
Bronze Michael Geraci
Web Design
Gold
Chris Diertl
Silver Charles Bagin
Bronze Ray Pellicano
Theology
Theology 9
Gold
Chris LoBiando
Silver Richard Minicus
Bronze Mike Carnocan
Kevin Rhee ‘16 Bronze Award, Dylan Cordaro ‘16 Gold Award and Jeff
Lieto ‘16 Silver Award were recipients of General Excellence Awards
for overall academic achievement during their junior year.
Alumni Centennial Family Day
N
early 5,000 people attended the Alumni Centennial Family Day on
Saturday, September 26. The day-long event began at 1:00 pm with a
children’s carnival in the upper practice field adjacent to Granatell Stadium.
Food trucks were interspersed throughout the carnival serving ribs,
kebabs, empanadas, pizza, roasted sweet corn, cotton candy, and more. Families
with young children participated in large part in these features of the day.
Mass followed in De Sales Hall auditorium at 4:00pm with Auxiliary Bishop John
O’Hara '63 of New York as the primary celebrant. In his homily, Bishop O’Hara
The Ironmen toughed it out against Archbishop Rummel 10-3.
spoke of his many days spent immediately prior with Pope Francis during his visit to
New York City, “He is infused with the spirit of Jesus Christ. We should all ask to be
infused every day with the spirit of Jesus Christ.” The mass was well attended by
students, alumni and families.
Following the Mass, the football team from St. John Bosco of Bellflower, California
played St. Peter’s Prep and won 56 – 14. At 8:30 pm, DBP’s Ironmen played the
Raiders of Archbishop Rummel High School in Metairie, Louisiana, and won 10 – 3.
The Centennial Family Day was just one of the many events and celebrations
in which Don Bosco Prep celebrated its 100th birthday. This included a spring
pilgrimage to Rome and Turin, Italy, where founder St. John Bosco’s work began,
and Timothy Cardinal Dolan having lead the mass for the opening of the 101st year
in September.
The centennial year’s events will conclude with the school’s annual President’s
Gala on November 5, during which individuals and groups will be recognized for the
impact they have made on the school over the last 100 years.
Kids played on games during Centennial Family Day
Families enjoyed the food carts and vendors.
Auxiliary Bishop John O’Hara '63 of New York
Winter 2015/16 / 13
Director/President Fr. James Heuser, SDB, Rector Major The Very Rev. Pascual Chávez Villanueva, SDB, and Provincial Fr. Steve Shafran, SDB ‘74.
DBP Celebrates Centennial Day and President’s Gala on November 5
D
on Bosco Prep, founded in 1915 as a college preparatory
joy, so that he could say to the boys in the Oratory: ‘Here we make
high school for young men, celebrated its Centennial
holiness consist in always being cheerful.’ ”
on November 5 with a day of games, sports and Mass
for the students, while the many adult constituencies
Following the Mass, students viewed the movie Jurassic World in
celebrated in the evening at the Centennial Year President’s Gala.
the auditorium, played games of ultimate Frisbee and flag football
The presence of the Very Rev. Pascual Chávez Villanueva, SDB,
on the upper field, whiffle ball and soccer on the lower field, 3 on
the 9th Successor of Don Bosco, was an honor for all when he
3 basketball in the gym, board games in the cafeteria, and X-Box
celebrated Mass in the morning and later attended the evening
tournaments in the classrooms.
celebration.
That evening at the gala, approximately 450 alumni, parents,
In his homily, Fr. Chávez addressed the students, faculty, parents
benefactors and friends attended the cocktail hour, dinner and
and alumni about the preventive system of Don Bosco. He
awards ceremonies which recognized the very special people
explained that St. John Bosco was motivated to help poor and
and institutions which contributed to the school’s success. Awards
abandoned youth by educating young people through his “union
were presented by Director/President Fr. James Heuser, SDB to
with God and a total trust in Mary Help of Christians whom he felt
Mayor Deirdre Dillon of The Borough of Ramsey, NJ; The Catholic
was the inspiration and support of everything he did.” St. John
Elementary Schools which have sent their graduates to Don Bosco
Bosco left as a legacy a spirituality that is based on the human and
Prep represented by Sacred Heart School in Suffern, NY and The
Christian virtues to be upright citizens and good Christians. “One
Academy of St. Paul in Ramsey, NJ, the DBP Mothers’ Guild and
of the great spiritual and educational insights of Don Bosco,” Fr.
the Fathers’ Club.
Chávez said, “is that the love of God and for God is the source of
14 / Don Bosco Prep
DBP Celebrates Centennial Day and President’s Gala
(continued)
After a short break, Fr. Heuser recognized the families of Don
Bosco Prep graduates and students as exemplified by the
Granatell family. Christine Hrubec, a family friend, accepted on
their behalf. Members of the staff and faculty who had served
the school for at least 30, 40 and 50 years were acknowledged;
for 30 years of service: Valda Dadinos, +Thaddeus Bruchalski,
Sr. Mary Culhane, SC, +Chuck Dooley, Kevin Kilduff, +Fr.
Brendan Kilroy SPS, Susan Hausmann, Paul O’Connor, Frank
Rezzonico, Dr. Heidi Rohrs and Michael Tolpa; and for 40 years:
Angelo Campo and Richard Zawacki. Fr. Heuser especially
recognized Dr. James Scanlon in honor of his 50 years of
service by naming a new plaza in front of Immaculata Hall, Dr.
Scanlon Plaza. Finally, the Salesians of St. John Bosco were
recognized. The award was accepted by Provincial of the St.
Philip the Apostle Province Fr. Steve Shafran, Don Bosco Prep
alumnus, Class of 1974. (continued on next page)
The Very Rev. Pascual Chávez Villanueva, Dr. James
Scanlon, recognized for 50 years of service, and John
Stanczak, Principal.
Teachers Richard Zawacki ‘67 and Angelo Campo were
recognized for over 40 years of service to the school.
Faculty members giving more than 30 years of service: Michael Tolpa, Dr. Heidi Rohrs, Ted Bruchalski’s sons Tom and Paul, Michael Dooley, son of Chuck Dooley,
Kevin Kilduff, Sr. Mary Culhane, SC, Paul O’Connor, Judy Lawlor for Fr. Brendan Kilroy, Susan Hausmann, and Paul Rezzonico for Frank Rezonnico.
Winter 2015/16 / 15
DBP Celebrates Centennial Day and President’s Gala
The Very Rev. Chavez concluded, “The celebration of this
jubilee has been the occasion to look back and praise and thank
the Lord, the real initiator of this presence in New Jersey, first
of all, for the good that has been done through the dedicated
and self-sacrificing work of the Salesians and lay collaborators,
and secondly, for the innumerable number of kids who have
benefited from this work and been able to begin a life anew in
society.
Don Bosco [Prep] has been dedicated all these 100 years to the
work of young people helping them to develop all their talents,
1.
find their place in society, and to discover their purpose in life.”
1. Charlie Wilkes '03 with parents Kim and Barry Wilkes '76, P '03,'09.
2. Mike Geraghty '80, Victor Herlinsky '84, Tom Haskins '80, Board of
Trustees President.
3. Jerry '83 and Sally Cummins, P'14, '16.
4. Deno '76 and Jeanne Bogdanos, and Claudia and Col. Matthew
Bogdanos '74.
5. Sandra and Vito Madugno '83, P'19
6. Danielle and Enrico Gaglioti '89, Vice President Board of Trustees
2.
6.
3.
5.
5.
16 / Don Bosco Prep
4.
DBP Celebrates Centennial Day and President’s Gala
1. Members of the Class of 1982 gathered for the President’s Gala.
2. The Very Rev. Pascual Chávez Villanueva, Mrs. Valda Dadinos, recognized for 30 years of
service, and John Stanczak, Principal.
3. Chuck and Jill Martel P'19
4. St. Paul’s Ramsey Principal Gail Ritchie and Pastor Fr John McCrone
5. Kristine Hrubec accepted on behalf of the Granatell family and all families.
6. Ramsey Mayor Deirdre Dillon.
7. David and Sue Buchanan P'11, '13 Board of Trustee Member
2.
1.
3.
3.
7.
4.
6.
5.
Winter 2015/16 / 17
Fr. Jack Janko, SDB
Vice Director/Facilities Manager
Carmela Raiti
Vice President of Institutional Advancement
Centennial Campaign Update
T
he Centennial Campaign fundraising initiative was launched to coincide with Don Bosco Prep’s 100th
anniversary. As our year-long centennial celebration draws to a close, we checked in with Father
Jack Janko, Vice Director and Facility Director at Don Bosco Prep, and Carmela Raiti, Vice President
of Institutional Advancement, for an update on the campaign and the progress made so far on the
campus expansion.
Q: How successful has the Centennial
Campaign been to date?
Carmela: Our concrete fundraising goal is $10
million, and as we go to press we are pleased to
report that a total of $8.2 million has been raised to
date. As you will recall, the official campaign kick-off
took place on January 30 of this year. The goal is
to finance a multi-phase expansion and renovation of
our school’s facilities, as well as to strategically grow
our endowment to meet the needs of current and
future generations of students.
We are inspired by the response we’ve received from
our alumni and families. They are as excited as we
are about the opportunities that these changes will
bring. Our outreach efforts have been extensive and
varied in order to reach our alumni, families and
friends, including hosting gatherings in five cities to
bring the campaign message to alumni where they
now live and work. While we have no additional
events planned this year, we want everyone to know
that the campaign will continue until we reach – and
hopefully surpass – our goal.
18 / Don Bosco Prep
Q: Any other good news to share about the
campaign?
Carmela: Don Bosco Prep has received an early
Christmas gift from the Gaglioti family! Enrico Gaglioti
- alumnus 1989 and Vice Chair of our Board of
Trustees - and his wife Danielle have made a
seven figure donation to the Capital Campaign. As
part of their donation, they have offered to match up
to $500,000 of gifts to the campaign, if they are
received by January 31, 2016 – the feast of St.
John Bosco. That means for every dollar given to
the campaign up to $500,000, the Gaglioti family
will match with another dollar! It’s a wonderful boost
to the campaign.
We are extremely grateful for their longstanding
support. This is the second family match of the
campaign, and we hope donors will help us repeat
the success of the first Centennial Challenge earlier
this year.
Aerial view of Don Bosco Prep campus taken by drone operated by Kyle Ferreira ‘05, FAA licensed pilot and owner of Bergen County Aerial Media.
Q: Has planning begun for the campus expansion
and renovation?
Fr. Jack: Absolutely! A Construction Committee was
formed in August and we have been meeting weekly
in-person and by phone. Under the leadership of
Enrico Gaglioti, the team is comprised of the project’s
architect, Michael Graves Architecture & Design; the
construction management representatives, WG Project
Management; and the construction firm Hollister
Construction Services. It also includes alumni volunteers
and consultants, administrators and staff who we’ve
called upon for specific expertise in areas such as IT,
AV and acoustics, food services, traffic, athletics and
programming.
Q: What has been the focus of the committee’s
work to date?
Fr. Jack: While we are engaged in numerous
aspects of the project, our priority is working closely
with Hollister to design and refine the budget. The
Committee and the Board are in total agreement that
the cost must be determined to the penny and signed
off on before the shovel goes into the ground. The
sustainability of the project is extremely important to the
school and our donors. This rigorous process ensures
that we’re creating something we can afford – and that
there won’t be any surprises once construction gets
underway.
As Facilities Manager at Don Bosco Prep, I represent
the concerns of the school’s leadership on everything
from design and construction to programming for this
project.
Winter 2015/16 / 19
Centennial Campaign Update (continued)
Q: What can you tell us about the new
multipurpose building?
Q: What are the other key components of the
campus modernization plan?
the design and programming for the new facility
are well underway. The building will be named
Savio Hall after Saint Dominick Savio, a student at
the original oratory of Don Bosco in Turin in the
1800’s. Director/President Fr. Jim Heuser felt it
was extremely important to continue the tradition of
selecting names that reflect the pillars of what an
education at Don Bosco Prep is all about: Teaching
boys to become good Christian men.
will be the centerpiece of our community. The
beautiful chapel in St. Johns Hall, which was
recently renovated, will remain unchanged. But it’s
a bit out of way. The new chapel will be centrally
located just outside of Immaculata Hall, making it
easy for students to visit on their way to other
activities. It will symbolize the spirituality that is
a pillar of life at Don Bosco Prep, and be highly
visible to everyone as they arrive on campus.
We have been simultaneously considering the
building’s footprint, exterior and interior spaces.
Externally, the building will fill the current quad and
create the feel of a college campus, where students
are able to move easily from one building to
another. The arches of St. John’s Hall are reflected
in the design, which also features dramatic windows
that offer expansive views.
Immaculata Hall will also undergo extensive
renovations. The proposed renovations include
upgrades to locker rooms, repurposing the weight
and trainers rooms, relocating the bookstore and
converting the cafeteria into an auxiliary gym.
We are still in the early stages of examining the
options, and none of this work will begin until after
the new construction is finished.
One of the most exciting and challenging aspects is
determining how to make the most of this incredible
space. Pending zoning approval, we propose the
lower level of the 40,000-square-foot building as
an athletic center with locker rooms, a weight room
and several meeting rooms. The second floor will
be a kitchen and dining gallery that serves as both
a student cafeteria and a function hall for school
events. The proposed top two floors will house up
to a total of 16 classrooms, and the budget will
include equipping and furnishing these spaces.
Q: How will construction affect parking and our
beloved pond?
Fr. Jack: Careful and thoughtful discussions about
Carmela: Many people have asked if we’re
expanding to accommodate more students at Don
Bosco Prep. We do not intend to increase the size
of the student body, which we intentionally maintain
at approximately 850. Rather, the improvements
will enable us to improve academic flexibility and
programming to better serve our students, and
maintain the vitality of our campus in the future.
20 / Don Bosco Prep
Fr. Jack: We are envisioning a new chapel that
Fr. Jack: Savio Hall will occupy the current faculty
and visitor parking lot, so we’ll be creating new
lots in a number of locations. Faculty lots will be
built on the south side of St. John’s Hall and
northwest of Immaculata Hall, and visitor parking
will be constructed on the north side of St John’s
Hall.
We will also be looking at the flow of traffic on
campus. The safety and security of our students is
always a primary concern, and we will be working
with Hollister – who has vast experience in the
education field – to improve traffic patterns for
student arrival/dismissal and events as well as the
pedestrian experience.
The pond and spillway are currently being
evaluated. Everyone agrees that the pond enhances
the beauty of our campus, and rest assured
it will be redesigned so that students, faculty,
administrators and visitors can continue to enjoy it.
Aerial view of Don Bosco Prep quad taken by drone operated by Kyle Ferreira ‘05, FAA licensed pilot and owner of Bergen County Aerial Media.
Q: This is a sizeable undertaking – how long
will it take to complete?
Fr. Jack: The project will be implemented in three
phases: Phase One will address parking; Phase
Two involves construction of Savio Hall and the
chapel; and Phase Three will be renovating existing
buildings.
We are currently working with the town of Ramsey
and other agencies to acquire the necessary zoning
commission approvals and permits. If all goes
according to plan, we will begin work on the new
parking lots in the spring and break ground on
Savio Hall over the summer. We estimate that it
will take several years to complete all three phases
of the project.
Q: Anything else you’d like parents and alumni
to know?
Carmela: Thanks to the support and commitment
of our Board of Trustees and Salesian leadership,
Don Bosco Prep is well positioned for continued
success. In the coming months we’ll be creating
opportunities for constituents and donors to meet
the talented and inspiring members of our Board –
so stay tuned for details.
The past year has provided countless opportunities
to speak with and get to know our parents and
alumni. They have inspired us with their generosity,
and shared their ideas, hopes and concerns. We
are grateful for the feedback, and confident that
there is no better time than now to support Don
Bosco Prep. Our leadership is strong and stable,
and the modernization of our campus is in perfect
alignment with our 5-year strategic plan.
As we enter the final year of this plan and
begin the next phase of long-term planning, the
success of the Centennial Campaign will allow us
to build on the benefits provided by our campus
modernization; and build an endowment that will
sustain us during critical times and help us meet
the needs of students for years to come.
For more information, contact the Advancement
Office at 201.327.8003 extension 176 or
[email protected].
Fall
2015 / / 21
Winter
2015/16
21
Campus News
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Sustain 350
“W
By Brett Moreland, Science Teacher, Sustain 350 Advisor
e cannot escape from the past, but neither
Jamaica. My studies provided countless opportunities to commune
can we avoid inventing the future. With our
with nature. As my college years came to a close I naively thought
knowledge and a sense of responsibility for the
that science could solve our environmental problems. It was at
welfare of humankind and the Earth, we can
that time that I was given the unique opportunity and honor to
create new environments that are ecologically sound, aesthetically
be a contributing author to The Encyclopedia of the Environment
satisfying, economically rewarding, and favorable to the continued
(1994), published by McGraw Hill in association with the Rene
growth of civilization.” These are the words of Rene Dubos,
Dubos Center for Human Environments. That experience exposed
the microbiologist, environmentalist, and humanist-philosopher
me to ideas about how environmental and ecological work must
credited with making famous the maxim “think globally, act locally.”
be interdisciplinary and cross many boundaries in order for it to be
This prompt, to consider the health of the entire planet and to take
effective. It was at that point that I realized solutions were going to
action in our own communities, is something I take to heart. It
come, actually had to come, from many people working in many
shapes not only how I live my own life, but also how I engage my
fields.
students and encourage them to become informed, responsible
citizens who do their part in promoting sustainability and a healthy
More recently, I came to understand that our faith lives also
environment.
play a major role in how we view and respond to environmental
issues. Last summer I came across a book titled Holy Ground:
My appreciation and concern for the environment was sparked
A Gathering of Voices on Caring for Creation, which begins with
early in my childhood, marked by a fascination with animals and
discussion of an open letter written twenty years ago by a group of
anything related to nature and the planet. I did not outgrow this
renowned scientists to religious leaders.
passion for nature, though, and I have deliberately taken every
opportunity possible to experience new places and learn about
The authors of the letter acknowledged the limits of science
them. I have lived oceanside in Connecticut, Long Beach Island,
and technology in changing attitudes and behaviors that were
and Los Angeles and in the desert of El Paso, Texas among
contributing to massive environmental destruction. Prior to that, in
other places. I have visited throughout the southwest - the white
the 1950s and 60s, a small group of theologians recognized the
sands of Alamogordo, the high plain deserts of southern New
connections between theology and ecology. It is not that these
Mexico, and the mesas of Arizona. I have travelled to the rain
are new ideas - they have been around for thousands of years in
forests, beaches and volcanoes of Costa Rica, and my dives along
various cultures. But we became separated from that thinking and
numerous coral reefs in the Caribbean are some of my fondest
only recently has it begun to come back to us.
memories. The hills and valleys of Wales, the countryside of Great
Britain, the edge of the North Sea in Scotland, and the countryside
“The earth does not belong to us, we belong to the earth.” Taken
of northern Europe are remarkable in their own ways. And I have
one step further, “Whatever befalls the earth befalls the sons and
been miles deep in the Pine Barrens of our own New Jersey
daughters of the earth. We did not weave the web of life;
and even just ten minutes from where I sit writing this, I’ve spent
we are merely strands in it. Whatever we do to the web,
countless hours hiking in the majestic Harriman State Park. Along
we do to ourselves.” (Chief Seattle, 1854).
the way, with the enjoyment I experienced, I developed a respect
for every destination as well as the people who live there. There is
Perhaps the most powerful example of the connection between
no end to my curiosity about what each place has to offer.
theology and ecology is Pope Francis’ (2015) Encyclical on the
Environment, Laudato Si, an urgent appeal for an improved
As a student at Drew University I studied ecology and had the
understanding of the environmental challenges we are currently
opportunity to work for the New Jersey Farm Bureau, conduct deer
facing as a result of man’s destructive behaviors.
population studies, and perform field research on a coral reef in
22 / Don Bosco Prep
Senior members of Sustain 350 from left to right: Logan Springer, Connor
Nicholson, Luke Novak and John Quimbo recycle paper for collection.
Science Teacher Brett Moreland (right) together with Dr. Tim Stoller and
students have founded the Sustain 350 Club, which is starting recycling
on campus concentrating on paper first.
Sustain 350 (continued)
Pope Francis calls us to “forcefully reject the notion that our
parts of the planet. With recycling and conservation initiatives,
being created in God’s image and given dominion over the earth
educational programs and community outreach, Sustain 350
justifies absolute domination over other creatures.” He continues
hopes to promote behaviors that lead to at least a slowing of the
by explaining that “an integral ecology is also made up of simple
increase in atmospheric CO2. Our goal is to educate the young
daily gestures which break with the logic of violence, exploitation
to carry this mission beyond DBP into their adult lives to create
and selfishness.” Pope Francis is calling us to do our part, day
meaningful action.
in and day out, to make choices that promote the health and
sustainability of our home. In other words, to think globally, act
My experiences have confirmed that, just as Carl Sagan stated
locally.
in 1996, “Science is not only compatible with spirituality; it is a
profound source of spirituality.” Sagan inspired me along with a
Here at Don Bosco Prep, many of us, adults and students
whole generation to not only look beyond ourselves, but to also
alike, want to be a part of this solution by participating in careful
look within ourselves.
stewardship of the planet. In particular, the Sustain 350 group
hopes to propel our school community to the forefront of this
“For small creatures such as we the vastness is bearable only
calling. The number 350 means climate safety. Climate scientists
through love.” - Contact, 1985
tell us that CO2 levels above 350 ppm (parts per million) will
alter the climate in ways that endanger the livability of many
Winter 2015/16 / 23
Campus News
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Model UN Students Win Awards
On November 13, the Model UN club traveled to Fairfield University to participate in the annual one-day model UN conference. Twenty DBP students participated in
five different committees, simulating the operations of the United Nations. Two of our students won awards: senior J.P. Salci received the highest award of Outstanding
Delegate, and sophomore Scott Frank received a Best Delegate award. Mr. John Finn, Social Studies Teacher, is the faculty advisor for this club.
Italian Class Trip to New York
Students of Italian language enjoyed a day this fall at the
Academia Barilla where they made lasagna and pesto. Justin
Touhey ‘17 made fresh Pesto alla Genovese while classmates
Justin Fuhrman, Robert Natale and Nick Stanziale looked on.
24 / Don Bosco Prep
Chorus and String Orchestra Members Perform
Members of the chorus and string orchestra, under the direction of Mr. Gaetano Cecere and Mrs.
Toni Bilotti Cecere (not in photo), performed for the visit of the Salesian Rector Major Fr. Ángel
Fernández Artime, SDB, to the Marian Shrine and Retreat Center in Stony Point, New York on
October 26. They performed songs celebrating the school’s 100th anniversary.
Campus News
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New Robotics Class
A new class for freshmen has just been introduced
this semester: Introduction to Robotics.
The course, which is currently a one semester
class, was developed by Fr. Lou Konopelski, SDB,
in order to introduce students to the multi-faceted
field of robotics which includes engineering,
mechanics, computer programming, display design,
proposal writing, fund raising, and collaborative
work methods. The course will further train
students to be a part of the school’s robotics team,
which is entering its fourth season. Last year, the
team qualified, with its partners, for the World
Intro. to Robotics students assemble a Lego robot as Fr. Lou Konopelski assists.
Championship Robotics Competition held in St.
Louis, Missouri.
Robotics Team is
Awarded Grant
Fr. Louis Konopelski, SDB, Robotics Team
Faculty Advisor, received notification in
October from the robotics competition
organization F.I.R.S.T. (For Inspiration and
Recognition of Science and Technology) that
Don Bosco Prep had been awarded a grant
from the U. S. Army’s Picatinny Arsenal, in
the amount of $5,000. Alan and Ellie Kino
(parents of Hunter Kino'16) worked diligently
in developing the contact that allowed the
school to receive this grant. Thank you Mr.
and Mrs. Kino, and best wishes to the 201516 DBP Robotics Team!
The six-week robotics competition period
for 2016 begins on January 9. Parents
and alumni with engineering expertise are
encouraged to volunteer to assist the team.
The need is especially great after-school
and on weekends.
Photo top right: 2015 DBP Robotics Team
members control the robot by computer during
a competition. Photo bottom: A view of several
robots at work during a competition.
Winter 2015/16 / 25
Campus News
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Twenty Seniors Declare on National Signing Day
C
ongratulations to the twenty Don Bosco Prep seniors who
the spirit of St. John Bosco, where Don Bosco Prep has provided
declared on National Signing Day, November 11, 2015 to
a school that will prepare them for life and where they can enjoy
attend colleges and universities for specific sports.
themselves and where they have excelled at both, may they go
Director/President Fr. James Heuser, SDB said in his
forward as honorable citizens and good Christians.” Athletic
prayer for the scholar athletes and witnessed by the parents and
Director Brian McAleer announced the scholar/athletes.
coaches gathered for the occasion in the school gymnasium, “In
They are:
Brandon Anderson - Brown University - Basketball
Russell Masci - University of Maryland - Lacrosse
Dominick Branda - Wagner College - Lacrosse
Zach Miraz - University of Rochester - Baseball
Kyle Bierdumpfel - Harvard University - Wrestling
Alex Mulyk - Catholic University - Lacrosse
Justinn Cavegn - Franklin and Marshall - Baseball
Liam O’Hara - US Military Academy at West Point - Gymnastics
Anthony Cuomo - Fairleigh Dickinson –Florham - Baseball
Matt Petrosino - University of Indiana - Baseball
Anthony Dombrowski - Susquehanna University - Baseball
Christiopher Rylkov - Amherst College - Lacrosse
Christopher Howard - Pace University - Lacrosse
Alex Santos - University of Rhode Island - Baseball
Vitaly Jangols - University of Rhode Island - Baseball
Ryan Skae - Colgate University - Golf
Thomas Joyce - Cleveland State - Lacrosse
Michael Stanziale - Ursinus College - Baseball
Ciaran McEnroe - SUNY Maritime - Lacrosse
Patrick Sullivan - US Air Force Academy - Track and Field
26 / Don Bosco Prep
26 / Don Bosco Prep
Campus News
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College Fair Draws Hundreds
During Application Season
M
ore than 85 colleges and universities attended Don
DBP Director of Guidance Tom DeLucci explained, “Seniors
Bosco Prep’s College Fair held on the evening of
who had already applied early decision to colleges were able
Wednesday, November 4 in the Immaculata Hall
to meet face-to-face with the admissions representatives, and
gymnasium.
underclassmen and seniors were able to explore many opportunities
at colleges and universities.” Tom DeLucci added, “The college
Students from Don Bosco Prep together with their parents met with
representatives said that they were impressed with our students’
admissions recruiters from colleges and universities throughout
questions as well as their comportment.”
the country. The DBP Guidance Department, which sponsored
the college fair, invited students from sister schools Mary Help of
Two other college guidance events presented for DBP families
Christians Academy and Immaculate Heart Academy to also attend
by the Guidance Department this fall were the College Panel on
the evening event. More than 250 people availed themselves of the
Wednesday, November 18 and the Financial Aid Workshop on
opportunity to ask questions and learn more about the admissions
December 2.
process and specific colleges and their programs.
Students and their parents had the opportunity to meet with college admissions reps from around the country on November 4.
Winter 2015/16 / 27
Campus News
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Haiti Medical Mission
Coordinator of Youth Ministry Fr. Matt DeGance, SDB
D
on Bosco Prep has made it a priority to
demonstrate the Gospel value of serving
those far less fortunate. This year we turn
our attention to Haiti to assist this very poor
Caribbean country.
Following the earthquake of 2010, Haiti received a
devastating blow to its capital and economy. In this
painful time, the Salesian community opened a nursing
school to educate students and provide much needed
health care to the local area.
Don Bosco Prep will host a medical mission trip to
Fort-Liberte, Haiti, this upcoming February 2016,
where the Salesian community is located. Our longterm goal is to establish a fully functioning medical
clinic on-site in Fort-Liberte.
The trip is a first step towards establishing the
clinic. Several students will travel with Father Matt
to Haiti along with a group of health care providers.
Our students will shadow health care workers and
physicians as they perform their medical duties,
observe the challenges of delivering care with
minimal resources, and come away with a deeper
understanding of what it takes to offer basic health
care.
Our boys are raising funds to support their travel
and to purchase much needed disposable medical
supplies to leave at the site. Please support this lifechanging experience for our students, with a financial
gift, large or small.
God bless!
For more information, contact Father Matthew
DeGance at 201.327.8003, or, frmdegance@
donboscoprep.org
28 / Don Bosco Prep
Campus News
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Eagle Scouts
Congratulations to Class of 2016 Eagle Scouts (l-r)
John Quill, Tyler Zanki and Sean Lee, who assisted
one another on their Eagle Scout Projects.
The students pictured above are Moritz Eisold, Will Shim,
Justinian Michaels, Ryan Stefanacci and Max Geuder.
Gold Out for Pediatric Cancer
Seniors Ryan Stefanacci and Yasin Dombayci sponsored a “Gold
Out” selling t-shirts for pediatric cancer awareness worn at the
St. John Bosco CA v. St. Peter’s Prep and Don Bosco Prep v.
Archbishop Rummel football games on Saturday, September 26.
Yasin Dombayci and Brian McAleer designed the t-shirts, which
were sold throughout the Centennial Family Day events. In
addition to raising awareness, the boys raised close to $2,500 for
pediatric cancer.
Welcome New Faculty Members
Don Bosco Prep is pleased to welcome the following new faculty members
who are joining the community for the 2015-16 school year.
First row from left to right: Chelsea Kelton, English; Jaclyn Dickerson,
English; Jenica Siniscaclco, Student Assistance Coordinator;
Second row l-r: Bill Heinzelmann, Anatomy and Physiology; Joanna
Alemany, English; Catherine Bartelucci, Guidance; Rogger Ortiz,
Technology;
Third row l-r: Brian Zawiski, Latin; Brendan Gorman, Physical Education;
Kevin Roth, Math; Vladimir Stolerman, Social Studies;
Fourth row l-r: Mike Teel ’04, Physical Education and Football Offensive
Line Coach; Fr. James Heuser, Director/President; Tom Bamberg,
Guidance; John Stanczak, Principal.
Not in photo: Michael Prender, Chief Financial Officer; Chris Donnelly ’92,
Admissions Director, Fr. Matthew DeGance, Coordinator of Youth Ministry.
Winter 2015/16 / 29
Class Notes
1975
Mike Jacobsen, member of the first Don
Bosco Soccer Team, was married on Sept.
12, 2015 to Deborah Page of Oakland,
New Jersey in Blauvelt, New York. They
will reside in Oakland. Mike is the owner
of a printing company in Oakland.
supernatural thrill-seekers
about a twelve-year-old
orphan who learns that she
is the niece of the legendary
Harry Houdini. A graduate
of Bucknell University and
post-graduate of New York
University, Glenn began his
publishing career
at Marvel Comics
where he wrote some
of its most popular
titles, including
Spider-Man, the
Avengers, X-Men,
and a long stint on Namor
the Sub-Mariner, Marvel’s
first and mightiest mutant. A
resident of River Vale, New
Jersey, he currently works
in the healthcare sector as a
communications specialist.
Piper Houdini: Apprentice of
Coney Island is his first novel.
It is available as an e-book at
Amazon.com for $3.99 and at
other online bookstores.
1984
John Hoffman, CEO of Pivotal Systems,
sent this photo of his two sons, Douglas
and Casey, with his wife, Debbie, Justin
Trattou '07, and John Hoffman '77
when they met up in Silicon Valley’s Levi
Stadium in Santa Clara, California, for a
San Francisco 49ers game.
1979
Fr. Louis Molinelli, SDB, celebrated
25 years as a priest at the St. Philip
the Apostle Province Salesian jubilee
celebration at the Marian Shrine in
Haverstraw, New York on September 19.
1982
Glenn Herdling, a former editor and
writer at Marvel Comics, has announced
the publication of Piper Houdini:
Apprentice of Coney Island, a novel for
330 / Don Bosco Prep
1994
Anthony Grano and his wife, Amy, are
pleased to announce the birth of their first
baby, a girl, Jordyn, on May 12, 2015.
1995
Brien Bell, former DBP assistant crosscountry and track coach, who for the past
11 years has been the assistant track coach
at Syracuse University, helped his team
win the NCAA Championship on Nov.
21-22, 2015.
Vincent Parisi is the new
1997
principal of St. James School
Anthony Carrino appeared as a guest on
in Basking Ridge, New Jersey. A “Family Feud” on November 19 with his
graduate of Rutgers University
“Kitchen Cousin” co-star John Colaneri.
with degrees in English and engineering,
They won $20,000 for Rebuilding
Vincent worked as an engineer for four
Together, their favorite charity. They
years before ultimately deciding that his
are currently casting for season 2 of
career should be in education. He earned
“America’s Most Desperate Kitchen.”
a Master’s degree in Education
from Montclair University while
teaching middle school science
for the Millburn Public School
District. He most recently was
the Assistant Principal for South
Hackensack grade schools. In an
interview published recently in the
Metuchen Diocesan newspaper The
Catholic Spirit, Vincent was quoted
as saying, “I think my time at Don
Bosco shaped me as a person. It was
probably the point at which I made
that transition from childhood faith
“Family Feud” host Steve Harvey high-fives John Colaneri,
to teenager and young adult, so I
cousin of Anthony Carrino '97, who stands between them.
think for me that was an important
stage in my spiritual growth.”
Doug, Casey, and Debbie Hoffman with Minnesota Vikings
Defensive End Justin Trattou '07, and John Hoffman '77
1977
Michael Martin ’07 and his wife, Jhonnari
Class Notes
Ironmen Kyle Sakowski ‘12 (Albany), Corey Stefanik ‘14 (Holy Cross),
Will McGrail ‘14 (Holy Cross), Elijah Ibitokun-Hanks ‘14 (Albany) met up at Holy
Cross Fitton Field in October.
2002
Jeffrey Sejour stopped by the
campus over the summer. A
2006 graduate of Lafayette
College with a Bachelor of
Science in Neuroscience, he is
currently a science teacher at
South County Middle School
in Lorton, Virginia. He is
also a defensive coordinator at
TC Williams High School in
Alexandria, VA. Jeffrey resides
in Centreville, Virginia. While
at DBP, he was a member of the
first 4-year graduating football
team under Coach Greg Toal.
2007
Michael Martin and Jhonnari
Jimenez were married
August 14, 2015 by Father
Carlos Suarez at St. Edith
Stein Church in Brockton,
Massachusetts. Michael works
as a Compliance Officer at
Och-Ziff Capital Management,
a $48B hedge fund in
Manhattan. He formerly
worked for Goldman Sachs in
a similar role. He is a graduate
of Bentley University with a
Bachelors of Economics and
Finance degree. Ms. Jimenez is
an Accountant in Manhattan,
for MFA Financial Inc., a Real
Estate Investment Trust. The
couple met in 2009 while
attending Bentley University
and will reside in Manhattan.
Michael is the son of Lori
Reidda Martin and Stephen
G. Martin ’76 of Pequannock,
New Jersey and the nephew of
Andrew Martin ’72. Stephen
is a Director of Technology for
Tiffany & Company. Stephen
and Lori recently celebrated
their 31st wedding anniversary.
Members of the Class of 2015 left to right are Matthew Perricone and
Erik Swanson, who were interviewed by NBC at the Papal Mass held at
Catholic University in September.
Edward Hayes ‘15 and Sue Fecht, DBP Computer Teacher, represented
Don Bosco Prep by playing bagpipes at the Township of Mahwah’s 9/11
Remembrance Ceremony on Sept. 11. Even though Edward graduated
this year, he volunteered his time by performing before heading off to the
University of Chicago for his first semester freshman term.
Winter 2015/16 / 31
Reunions
ppp
Class of 1975 40th Reunion
October 10, 2015
Allendale, New Jersey
Centennial Southeast Reception
October 15, 2015
Palm Beach, Florida
32 / Don Bosco Prep
Class of 1995 20th Reunion
November 21, 2015
Oakland, New Jersey
abroad, performed nationally for the American Guild of Organists,
National Pastoral Musicians Association, Conference of Roman
Catholic Cathedrals, Church Music Association of America
and internationally as a featured conductor in the Festival
Internazionale di Musica e Arte Sacra.
Allen Blehl serves as the Pastoral Associate for Worship and
Liturgy at the Church of St. Mary in Closter, New Jersey. A native
of Oradell, Allen graduated in 2010 before earning a Bachelor
of Arts degree with a double major in music and government
from the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia.
Allen’s musical studies began with classical piano at age 9,
before continuing with organ lessons at age 13. At William,
he served as the harpsichordist for the college’s Early Music
Ensemble. In January 2011, Allen was appointed Organ Scholar
at Bruton Parish Episcopal Church in Williamsburg. During the fall
Peter Latona '86, Kristin Dabaghian and Allen Blehl '10
Alumni Organists Plus 1 Perform
Peter Latona '86, organist for the National Shrine of the
Immaculate Conception in Washington, DC; Allen Blehl '10,
organist for St Mary’s Church in Closter; and Kristin Dabaghian,
organist for Church of St. Paul, in Ramsey; performed in the first
Chapel Concert of the 2015/16 season on November 14.
An award-winning organist, Dr. Latona has performed throughout
the United States, Europe and the Holy Land. As the conductor of
the Choir of the Basilica, he released numerous recordings of
sacred choral music, presented concerts in the United States and
semesters of 2012 and 2014, he studied abroad in Prague, Czech
Republic, where he took courses in Central European politics and
history at Charles University.
Ms. Kristin Dabaghian is the Organist and Director of Music at St.
Paul’s Church in Ramsey, having previously served as Associate
Music Director at the Cathedral-Basilica of the Sacred Heart
in Newark and at St. John’s in Hillsdale. She holds a Master’s
degree in organ performance from Manhattan School of Music,
and a Bachelor’s degree in piano from Mason Gross School
of the Arts at Rutgers University. She has accompanied many
Broadway artists and theater companies, and has conducted at
the NYC Fringe Festival and New World Stages.
Winter 2015/16 / 33
IRONMAN Athletics
A Year to Remember for Ironman Baseball
By Shane McNamara '16 and Vitaly Jangols '16
T
he Don Bosco Prep
Baseball program had a
very memorable 2015
season. The entire program
combined for a 79-4 record. The
Freshman team won the Bergen
County Freshmen Tournament,
the Junior Varsity team won the
Don Bosco Prep Junior
Varsity Tournament,
and the Varsity team
won the Bergen County
Tournament, North
Non-Public A Sectional
championship, and their
highly competitive Big
North United League
with a perfect 8-0 record.
The Varsity team finished
their season 29-1 as the
24th team in the country,
ranking as high as number
9 in the country during
the season.
The Varsity baseball
team began their campaign with
a six day trip to Orlando, Florida.
Within these days, three games were
played but the trip served a greater
purpose than that. The goal for Don
Bosco baseball is always to win, but
this trip helped everyone on the
team become better acclimated to
one another, as well as to build great
camaraderie. The first two days the
players had to themselves, and one
of these days was spent at Universal
Studios in Orlando. After having
fun these first few days, the team
was ready to get down to business.
The Ironmen opened the year with
a thrilling 4-3 victory over Bishop
Moore Catholic High school and
went on to win two of their three
games. Since New Jersey athletics
rules state the season officially begins
April 1st, only the last game counted
towards the Ironmen’s official record,
and they came back into the frigid
weather with a 1-0 record.
The Ironmen were great at every
aspect of the game, bringing
34 / Don Bosco Prep
them to great success. Speed? The
Ironmen averaged 8 stolen bases per
game which accumulated to 240
throughout the 30 game season. The
Ironmen pitching staff consisted of 7
seniors and 2 juniors, and threw an
incredible 8 shutouts this year. The
offense fired on all cylinders almost
every game. The Ironmen scored
240 runs on 285 hits this year.
With such talent, victory against
tremendous baseball teams such as
Gloucester Catholic and Poly Prep
was only inevitable. The Ironmen
played St. Joseph Regional and
Bergen Catholic a combined seven
times, ending the year being 7-0
against their rivals while outscoring
them 68-9. The Ironmen were full
of tremendous players, but two were
voted as the MVP’s. Cullen Dana,
Big North conference pitcher of the
year, as well as Josh Shaw, two time
Bergen County Tournament MVP
were voted by fellow teammates as
the MVP’s of the 2015 season.
The Ironmen went into the
Bergen County Tournament with a
target on their back, ranked number
one in New Jersey, but the boys were
still able to take care of business.
Winning their first game 7-3 over
Fairlawn and their second game
5-0 over Northern Highlands, the
Ironmen set themselves up for a date
with a very talented Mahwah High
School team in the semifinals. The
game was close and intense, but
the Ironmen were able to hold on
for the 4-3 victory thanks to a late
Tristan Dacey homerun. Following
the victory, the Ironmen were
on to face their rival
Bergen Catholic in the
championship. The
Ironmen lead almost the
entire game and won
with a final of 9-5, as
the Ironmen repeated as
Bergen County Champs!
Shortstop Josh Shaw
won the tournament
MVP honor, and Cullen
Dana won Pitcher of the
Tournament.
The Ironmen earned the
number one seed in the
state tournament and
were set to face DePaul
Catholic. The Ironmen
defeated the Spartans by a score
of 7-0, and followed it up with a
10-0 win over Bergen Catholic. The
Ironmen went on to face St. Joseph
Regional in the North Non-Public A
Section Championship, where they
cruised to a 13-1 victory, highlighted
by a stellar pitching performance
from senior Kevin Romero. The
Ironmen earned themselves a spot in
the State Championship game where
they suffered a tough loss, losing to a
strong group of players from CBA.
Despite falling just short of their
goal of a State Championship, the
Ironmen had no reason to hang their
heads. They had a season many
teams would dream for and with
the dominance of the Freshmen and
Junior Varsity teams, the Ironmen
look to have a bright future ahead
of them even though they are losing
many vital seniors. The Don Bosco
Baseball program looks like it is
around to stay.
Ironman Crew
A
fter a competitive fall season
and intense winter training,
the Don Bosco Prep rowers
were eager to get back on
the water and prove their mettle.
However, before the commencement
of the spring season and official end
of winter conditioning, the rowers
had to face the annual Ironmen Erg
Classic, hosted by the Don Bosco Prep
Oarsmen Club. Notably, in only its
second year, the “Classic” became the
largest indoor regatta in the tri-state
area with 460 entries and 23 different
clubs. Results included Coxswains
Matt Dimino ‘17, Max Vasquez ‘17,
and Alec Galimi ‘15 sweeping their
event, Parker Stone ‘16 earning bronze
in the men’s heavyweight category, and
an overall accomplishment in hosting
the race, the team was delighted to
successfully bring a close to the winter
season. Unfortunately, the start of the
spring season was delayed significantly
because Overpeck Creek was reluctant
to thaw, but the team pushed through
despite the occasional scrape of ice
against the oars. With high spirits and
low 2000m times, the rowers were
determined to have a successful spring
season and end the school year with
medals around their necks.
The spring season began with
a series of noncompetitive races
known as Manny Flicks. These races
were held on the Schuylkill River in
Philadelphia; the Manny Flick series
provides teams with the opportunity
to test out different boat lineups,
experiment with race plans and have
some fun. This past season, a total
of four Manny Flicks were held,
three of which were attended by Don
Bosco Prep. Depending on how well
the various boats place within their
category, point totals are awarded to
the team. These points accumulate
throughout all of the Manny Flicks
and eventually culminate at the
conclusion of the final race when a
total points champion is recognized.
Despite being a relatively new
program (about ten years old) Don
Bosco Prep achieved its highest
standing in Manny Flick races,
ranking 6th overall out of over fifty
teams with decades of experience.
The experience gained from racing in
the Manny Flicks would prove to be
valuable as the Don Bosco Prep rowers
entered the championship season and
attempted to win trophies.
The championship races began
with the Garden State Scholastic
Rowing Championship where 13
out of the 14 boats on the team
qualified for finals. The Junior Varsity
2x, Lightweight 8+, and Novice 4+
all came home with gold medals,
an excellent start of the season for
the team. The Lightweight 8+ and
Junior Varsity 2x also placed third at
the Philadelphia Scholastic Rowing
Association City Championship, a
race where rowers compete against
the best boats in the tri-state area.
After a few lineup changes, the rowers
managed to find respite from the
exhaustive championship races at the
Kearny Invitational. The race was
light-hearted as it was only between
teams who rowed on the Passaic River.
The Don Bosco Prep Crew team made
a nostalgic appearance despite having
moved to Overpeck Park, winning
the cup after an impressive display by
the entire team. With multiple gold
medals around the team’s necks, the
rowers were reenergized and ready to
take on the daunting Stotesbury Cup.
The team headed to Philadelphia for
the weekend where they would spend
their time racing in and watching the
Stotesbury Cup Regatta, the largest
high school regatta in the world. The
race marked the end of the season
for most of the team except for the
Lightweight 8+, Junior Varsity 2x,
and Varsity 2x. As a result of their
impressive performance at states,
the Junior 2x and Lightweight 8+
qualified to row at nationals and the
Varsity 2x was fortunate enough to
win a position through the lottery
system. Races began on Friday for
the two Varsity boats that looked to
advance to the semi-finals that would
take place the next day. Despite not
knowing their competition, both
boats produced stellar performances
and lived to row another day. In both
races, the conditions were choppy but
the endless amount of time on the
water paid off and resulted in both
boats a third place finish in their heat.
The next day all three boats would
race for a spot in the grand final at
nationals. First was the varsity 2x who
was favored to advance to the next
round. A smooth, clean race allowed
the double to overtake enough of the
competition to come in the top 3 and
advance to finals. Despite rowing an
excellent race, the Junior Varsity 2x
placed 6th in their heat which was
not enough to advance to the next
round. The last Bosco semi-final
included the lightweight 8 which was
evenly matched with the rest of the
competition. Bosco pulled through
to beat the top seeded boat and place
second in their semifinal. The race
was sluggish for Bosco, which placed
6th in their race even though this
had been the first Bosco 8+ to race
in the finals of nationals. The final
race was that of the Varsity 2x, and
despite being hit by a motorboat
on the way to the start, the varsity
double was determined to make their
coaches and school proud. The race
was a strenuous battle and Bosco came
in 6th. Despite not medaling, both
boats were happy to have raced in
a National final and the season had
finally reached its conclusion. The
boats were loaded onto the trailer and
brought back to Overpeck where the
summer season will soon begin and
preparations for another rowing year
will begin.
IRONMAN Athletics
By Connor Mudrick '16, Jordan Giordano '16, Timothy Pierce '16, John Paul Salci '16
Winter 2015/16 / 35
IRONMAN Athletics
Ironman Lacrosse
By Ryan Devaney ‘16
T
wo years removed from almost achieving a
State title, the 2015 Don Bosco Prep Varsity
Lacrosse team did not perform up to the
lofty expectations of the program. After a
disappointing 8-10 record during the 2014
season, the returning Bosco lacrosse players went through
extensive offseason training with defensive coordinator
Sean Kelly. The team seemed to be improving from the
daily weight training and competitive tournaments in
the fall and winter. However, the team was not able to
capitalize on the promise it showed before the spring
season began.
From the start, the odds were stacked against Bosco.
This was the youngest team Bosco has put on the field
in recent memory, sporting only 5 seniors on the roster.
A team with very little Varsity experience was not given
an easy ride in 2015. In fact, Don Bosco boasted the
third toughest schedule in the nation. Unfortunately, the
team was also plagued by injuries for the duration of the
season. At one point, 3 of the team’s 4 captains were all
unable to play due to injuries. Bosco started the season by
losing the first 4 games of the season. The first two games
were against national powerhouses Delbarton and The
Hun School in which the Ironmen struggled. The next
two games against local teams Glen Ridge and Ramapo
were characterized by exciting finishes that didn’t break
Bosco’s way.
36 / Don Bosco Prep
Looking at its record, Bosco knew it
had to turn things around fast. In the
next two games, the team started the
trend of late game heroics that were seen
in all of its wins. Against Montclair,
senior midfielder Riley O’Sullivan
squeaked a shot past the goaltender to
give the Ironmen the lead with only
seconds left in the game. Fresh off its
first win, Bosco set its sights on giving
St. Joseph’s Montvale its first loss. Bosco
rallied late to tie the game at 10, setting
the stage for junior midfielder Russell
Masci, who scored with 1.8 seconds
remaining to earn the second victory of
the season.
Unfortunately, Bosco couldn’t maintain its
momentum. The Ironmen dropped their next 5 games
to Kinnelon, IMG National (Florida), Bergen Catholic,
Mountain Lakes and Ridgewood. Bosco was given the
8th seed in the Bergen County tournament and were set
to play 9th seeded River Dell. Russell Masci continued to
show he was a big time player by scoring the game-tying
goal late in the 4th quarter, followed by the overtime
winner which sent the team to play its rival Bergen
Catholic in the second round of the tournament. Bosco,
however, found itself outplayed, as it lost to the eventual
Bergen County champions. The team was then given
the 10th seed in the State tournament and was matched
against Christian Brother’s Academy in Lincroft. Bosco
prevailed on another overtime winner, this time from
standout junior attackman Dominic Branda. The win set
up a rematch from last year’s quarterfinals against Seton
Hall Prep. The opposition, however, proved to be too
overpowering for Bosco, and the team ended with a final
record of 4-12. Though the Bosco Varsity Lacrosse team
had a difficult season, there is hope in the 2018 class.
Sporting a deceptive 7-7 record, the freshmen were able
to take down Bergen Catholic twice, Seton Hall Prep and
St. Joseph’s Montvale.
Ironman Spring Track
T
his year’s Spring Track and Field season was
in many ways a success for the Ironmen, and
the young team that used it for development
as well as competition is poised for greater
success in the future. One of the best performers in
the Sprint events was Sophomore Wankeith Akin, who
turned in solid performances in both the 100m and
200m races at the NJSIAA Non-Public A State Group
Championships (or NPA Championships), placing 2nd
and 3rd respectively. In addition, Junior JD Mender and
Senior Will Bozian competed in the 400m Hurdles at
the NPA Championships after qualifying through the
State Sectional meet. Other solid sprinting performances
came from the 4x100m Relay team, which consisted
of Juniors Gabe Lartigue and Matt Buchalski, Senior
Anthony Delzotto, and Sophomore Wankeith Akin. This
team placed well enough to qualify for the State Meet
of Champions (SMOC), and Wankeith Akin qualified
individually in the 100m and 200m events.
In the longer events, the Ironmen were led by
Sophomore David Rosas, Juniors Patrick Sullivan and
Connor Nicholson, and Seniors Donovan Tucker,
Bobby Gonzales, and Zack Weland. In addition to
these individuals, the Ironmen also fielded a 4x800m
Relay made up of Sophomore Joey Erskine and Juniors
Luke Novak, Billy McNicholas, and Justin Fuhrman.
Tucker, primarily an 800m runner, achieved a sub2:00 800m time, which is a benchmark for the event.
Gonzales ran better in the 1600m, competing in the
NPA Championships after qualifying through Sectionals.
Connor Nicholson also competed in the 1600m, placing
third and qualifying for SMOC. Other qualifiers in the
distance events included David Rosas and Zack Weland
in the 3200m, and Patrick Sullivan in both the 1600m
and 3200m. Perhaps the highlight of the Distance events
was Sullivan’s victory in the 3200m at the Non-Public A
Championships, where he beat out long-time rival Blaise
Ferro of CBA with a faster last lap.
IRONMAN Athletics
By Luke Novak ‘16
The field events saw one of this season’s biggest
surprises - senior Chris Bozzo qualifying for SMOC in
the High Jump despite never having competed for Don
Bosco prior to this season. Other standout performers
were Senior Jack Judge, who qualified for the New Balance
Nationals in the Javelin, and Senior Chris Puntasecca,
who was one position short of qualifying for SMOC in
the pole vault even with an injury that put him in a cast.
Additionally, the NPA championships saw competition
from Juniors Miles Cobb and Nick Benfante in the Shot
Put, Junior Matt Bruchalski in the Long Jump, and Senior
Anthony Delzotto in the Triple Jump.
As the season ended, several seniors looked forward to
the continuation of their careers in college, including Zack
Weland who will be running at Duquesne University in
Pittsburgh, Chris Puntasecca who will be vaulting at Holy
Cross in Worcester, MA, and Bobby Gonzales who will be
competing at UNC Charlotte in Charlotte, NC.
Winter 2015/16 / 37
IRONMAN Athletics
Ironman Tennis
By Coach Rich Zawacki ‘67
T
he 2015 season will be a
memorable one for the Don
Bosco Tennis Team. Besides
concluding with a final record
of 17-1, the team finished second in
the Bergen County Tournament behind
Tenafly High School. The Ironmen
placed 3 teams in the county finals at 3rd
singles, 1st doubles, and 2nd doubles.
After finishing undefeated in League
competition at 8-0, the Netmen entered
the State Tournament as the top seed. After
defeating Union Catholic and Seton Hall
Prep, the Ironmen lost a heart breaking
Class of 2015 Senior Tennis Team members: Kyle O’Hara , Sean McNulty and
James O’Brien with Coach Rich Zawacki.
match to Delbarton 4-1 with 3 matches
being decided in 3 sets.
“it was a remarkable run and best of all we will be
The team was led by senior captain
returning 5 of the 7 starters next season”.
Sean McNulty at first singles (16-3), sophomore
Coach Zawacki also wanted to express his thanks to
Russel Hernandez at second singles (16-3), freshman
his assistant coach Jeff Knapp for his time and effort in
Oliver Rodriguez at third singles (18-1), senior Jim
developing this year’s varsity squad.
O’Brien and sophomore Austin Tchikatilov at first
Along with the success of the varsity team, the JV
doubles (17-2), and sophomore Ryan Arbogast and
team also concluded an impressive campaign with a
freshman Roshan Dave (16-3) at second doubles. Also
final record of 10-3. Under the guidance of Bro. Jim
contributing to the varsity team’s success were senior
Wiegand, the JV players (Sean Stouffer, Chris Lutz,
Kyle O’Hara and juniors Dylan Cordaro and Aman
Jonas Estevez, Max Minicus, Kevin Tang, and Nick
Dalal.
Savastano ) gained experience and confidence which
A compliment to the talents of the varsity team was
will eventually elevate them to the varsity program. that every players was selected First Team All-League
Coach Rich Zawacki concluded his 41st year at the
by the conference coaches. When asked to remark
helm
of our varsity program amassing an incredible
about the 2015 team, Coach Rich Zawacki replied
career record of 685-134.
2015 Varsity Tennis Team
Kneeling left to right: Russel Hernandez, Roshan Dave,
Oliver Rodriguez, Ryan Arbogast, Austin Tchikatilov.
Standing left to right: Coach Rich Zawacki, Sean McNulty,
Kyle O’Hara, James O’Brien, Coach Jeff Knapp.
38 / Don Bosco Prep
By Andrew Oolut '17
T
he 2015 Don Bosco Prep Varsity Volleyball team
completed a successful season once again despite
the loss of five out of the six starters from the 2014
Varsity Volleyball roster.
The Ironmen were led by senior captains Tom
Wisniewski and Anthony Gonnello as well as head coach
Haris Brkovic in his first season as the Don Bosco Prep
Varsity Volleyball head coach. Setters Tom Wisniewski
and Andrew Oolut '17 had a combined total of 545 assists
for the team. Wisniewski, also an outside hitter, had a
remarkable all-around season as he finished with 252
kills and 243 assists, along with 28 blocks, 55 digs, and
an outstanding 34 service aces. Senior Daniel Lawrence,
Wisniewski’s counterpart, added 76 kills as an outside
hitter. Middle hitter Kevin White '16 also played a large
role as he accumulated 120 kills, 45 blocks, and 18 service
aces on the year. The other middle, junior Marcus “Slav”
Gurega, contributed with 33 kills and 17 service aces.
Opposite hitter Joseph Downing '16 had a big season as
he finished the year with 88 kills, 33 blocks, 68 digs, and
12 service aces. The defense was led by Anthony Gonnello
who finished the season with 254 digs. Mark LoBue '15
served as a defensive specialist, finishing with 35 digs.
Senior Tim Fleming added a big block in the middle with
17 blocks.
On April 6, 2015, in the second regular season game
of the year, the Ironmen played a tough opponent,
Hackensack, which was ranked number sixteen in the
state at the time. They lost a
close first set, 22-25, despite a
late comeback run. That late
comeback run by the Ironmen
cut short in the first set sparked the momentum needed in
the second and third sets as they went on to win the match
22-25, 25-13, 25-15.
On May 2, the Ironmen played in their third and final
invitational tournament of the year in Elizabeth. They
looked strong and determined throughout the tournament,
dropping only one set in the pool round. In the semi-finals,
the Ironmen rallied against Montclair, a team that they lost
to in an exciting three-set match earlier in the season, and
went on to later defeat Kearny in the finals.
Towards the conclusion of the regular season, the Ironmen
advanced to the semi-final round of the Bergen County
Tournament where they would face Bergen Catholic,
to which they were 0-2 against during the season. They
came out looking strong in the first set leading 23-20, but
ended up losing 24-26. The Ironmen’s county tournament
run ended after dropping the second set as well. Their
state tournament run was cut short against Montclair in a
thrilling and nail-biting 24-26, 24-26 loss and their season
came to a close the next day with a win in the final regular
season game.
The Ironmen finished the season with a 15-9 record and
graduated eight seniors, all of whom showed what it meant
to “bleed maroon.” Senior Tom Wisniewski was named
to the First Team All-Bergen County. Senior Anthony
Gonnello and junior Kevin White were named to the
Second Team All-Bergen County; Sophomore Andrew
Oolut received an honorable mention.
IRONMAN Athletics
Ironman Volleyball
2015 Volleyball Team Seniors
Standing from left to right:
Mark LoBue, Dan Mariano, Tom Wisniewski,
Dan Lawrence, William Trieste,
Tim Fleming, James Noone.
Kneeling: Anthony Gonnello.
Winter 2015/16
/ 39
Salesian News
Salesian Jubilee celebrations were held for the St. Philip the Apostle
Province at the Marian Shrine in Haverstraw, New York on September 19.
Former Director/President Fr. Gennaro Sesto, SDB celebrated his 65th
jubilee as a priest and 75 years as a Salesian. He is in residence at Don
Bosco Prep.
Former Director/ President Fr. Louis Molinelli, SDB ‘79 celebrated his
25th jubilee as a priest. He is the Director/President of Archbishop Shaw
High School in Marrero, LA.
Former Principal Fr. Timothy Ploch, SDB celebrated 50 years as a
Salesian.
He is the InterAmerica Regional and is based in Rome, IT.
Don Bosco Prep Director/President Fr. James Heuser, SDB
Fr. Timothy Ploch is congratulated by Pope Francis on his
appointment as the InterAmerica Regional for the Salesians.
celebrated 40 years as a Salesian.
In Memoriam
Alumni
Thaddeus S. Bruchalski, Class of 1942
Matt Crehan, Class of 1981
Richard M. Skelly, Class of 1957
Edward J. Smith, Class of1956
Colman O’Connell, Class of 1981
Family Members
Minerva Alvarez, mother of Alejandro Alvarez P'19
Caroline Cannella, mother of Peter J. Cannella '76
Edward Cobb, father of Ryan A. Cobb '10
Patricia Anne Dunay, wife of Joseph S. Dunay '62
James Eaton, father of Lisa Bylicki, faculty member
P '11, '14, and grandfather of Austin Garvey '11, and
Jonathan Garvey '14
Trevor Fennell, father of Trevor Fennell II '93
Alessandro Forte, father of Alexandro Forte '15
Allen Haywood, father-in-law of Paul R. DiPaolo '86, P'17
Paul Papendick, father of Charles J. Papendick '80
Anton Pavosevic, father of Renata Pestic P'16
Carmen Perez, faculty member, mother of Ivo Perez '13,
and wife of Ivo Perez P'13
Theodore Podest, father of Theodore J. Podest '82, P'18,
and Brian Podest '86, P'14
Anthony Phillip Puntasecca, father of Michael
Puntasecca '10 and Christopher Puntasecca '15,
husband of Janice Puntasecca P'10, '15
Catherine Heafy Rose, sister of Colin Heafy P'17
Leonard Sielski, father of Mark '80, P'13, and of Brian
'84, and grandfather of Michael '13.
Francis X. Wrenn, brother of David Wrenn '74
40 / Don Bosco Prep
John '78, Tom Bruchalski '82, Dr. James Scanlon, Paul '81, P '16, and Matt
Bruchalski '16 at the Memorial Service for Thaddeus Bruchalski '42, P '78, '81,
'82, and faculty member for more than 30 years.
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Ted Bruchalski, Class of 1942, was a
member of the faculty for 33 years as
a teacher of Latin, civics and religion.
He passed away on October 10, 2015.
He is the father of John ‘78, Paul ‘81,
P ‘16, and Tom ‘82, and grandfather
of Matt Bruchalski, '16.
Thaddeus Stanley Bruchalski, Class of 1942, veteran DBP educator
A member of the greatest generation, Ted joined his wife of 56
in Mahwah. There, in his choir, he met the love of his life
years Veronica (d. 2002), peacefully dying at his home in Oak
Veronica and they married in 1959. John, Paul and Tom
Hill, Virginia on October 2, 2015, almost 92 years of age. He
were all born in Northern New Jersey and attended the same
lived there with Veronica since 1991 with his son John and
beloved High School where Matt his grandchild is now a
John’s wife, Carolyn his primary caregiver. He is survived by
senior. Four generations of family have attended that prep
them and their two children JohnPaul of Houston, and Joseph
school.
as well as Ted’s other sons and their families who live in
Bergen County New Jersey; Paul and Laura and their children
Tadj loved his wife and his family, his Catholic Church, his
Jenna and Matthew of Mahwah, New Jersey and Tom, Lisa
“Madonna”, his Baltimore Orioles, his “Ronald Reagan”, his
and their children Blake and Bridget of Allendale, New Jersey.
Don Bosco Prep and his students, and his Maryland crab
He was also cared for by Felicia Akunanyi for the last 3 years
cakes. He would take the last two weeks of the summer just
and she is now the official “sister we never had.”
before Labor Day and we would drive to New England, Florida
or Baltimore.
The oldest of five boys growing up in Baltimore, Maryland, Ted
was born on October 28, 1923. He attended the Salesian Don
Politically conservative, he wrote many articles on anti-
Bosco Prep in Ramsey New Jersey graduating in 1942 and
communism and conservativism, and the glories of our
returning in 1959 to teach civics, Latin and religion until 1992.
American constitution. He knew Bill Buckley, and Phyllis
He loved St. John Bosco for his gentle educational style, and
Schlafley. Above his classroom blackboard was the quote by
Ted truly believed he was called to teach boys there. How he
Daniel Webster, “What makes men good Christians makes
loved his students. A good teacher teaches, a great teacher
them good citizens.” Talk about religious freedom… Tadj
influences, the best teacher inspires, he would say. We had to
worked at the alumni office of his Don Bosco Prep and wrote
share our Dad with many others, but it was a pleasure.
many articles for the local newspapers about the school, and
editorials regarding the current cultural harbingers of decline.
Ted served in the Army Air Corp from 1942 through 1945 in
For his efforts, Dad received the Valley Forge Medal of
the Aleutian Islands flying bombing missions over the islands
Freedom in 1969. His life was fruitful, influencing thousands of
of Japan. He attended Saint Mary’s Seminary and Johns
young men to serve their community, their nation, their family
Hopkins in Baltimore and Georgetown in Washington DC,
and their faith. He will be missed.
before moving to New Jersey to teach and play the organ
This obituary was written by Ted Bruchalski’s sons: John '78,
Tom '82 and Paul '81.
for his uncle, Father Haluch at Immaculate Heart Parish
Winter 2015/16 / 41
A
DON BOSCO PREP
SCHOLARSHIP
is being offered
to any graduate or alumnus
interested in entering the
Salesian Formation Program
and studying to become a Salesian priest or brother.
$1,000 for the first year (per semester)
$1,500 for the second year (per semester)
For further information, please contact
Fr. James Heuser, SDB l 201-327-8003
Upcoming Alumni Events
Mark your calendar!
Friday, January 29, 2016: Mass of the Feast of St. John Bosco
Fr. Steve Shafran, SDB ‘79, Celebrant
Friday, April 8, 2016: Annual Alumni Career Day
Friday, April 15, 2016: DBP Auction
May 2016: Regional Alumni Reception, Hoboken, NJ
Friday and Saturday, June 3 and 4, 2016: Class of 1966
50th Year Reunion Weekend
Monday, June 13, 2016: Annual Fr. Al Sokol Golf Classic