2770 Ora Summer 06 - Benedictine High School

A Benedictine Community Publication Including the St. Andrew Svorad Abbey and Benedictine High School
ORA ET LABORA
Prayer, Work, Education in Harmony
SUMMER 2006
IN THIS ISSUE
2 Principal’s Column
Benedictine is…Blessed
Abbot’s Column
Heartfelt thanks to those who give of
their time, service, and support
3 Bengal Bravos
6 BHS Celebrates
76th Commencement
7 Mr. Benedictine
9 Athletics
Abbot Clement Zeleznik, OSB
12 President’s Column
Pope Benedict
XVI and the
Benedictines
13 Advancement News
16 Abbey Renovations
17 Brother Finbar
Professes Vows
18 Fr. Paschal Celebrates
Silver Priesthood
Jubilee
19 Fr. Anselm Honored
by Kiwanis
20 Oblate Corner – A
Time of Celebration
21 Hall of Fame &
Hall of Honors
26 Class Notes
BHS President Fr. Albert with MTV Award recipients Marie Golias and
Carol & Lee Sattelmeyer.
Giving of oneself is said to be one of God’s greatest gifts. Whether
you are the benefactor or the beneficiary, the blessings are many.
Benedictine is truly blessed by the countless gifts given by our
community and to our community. As you read the following article
and the “Bengal Bravos” section, please join us in saluting our many
volunteers who give of themselves to the Benedictine Community!
MTV Awards Come to Benedictine
Paying tribute to three of our most treasured volunteers
You are probably familiar with the popular MTV (Music Television)
Channel that plays music videos 24/7; if not, ask your son, grandson
or someone from the younger generation. Each year, MTV holds
an awards ceremony, called the MTV Awards, honoring the best
music videos.
Last December, Benedictine High School launched its first annual
MTV Awards; however, the Bengal version of MTV stands for
(continued pg. 8)
In the May 22 issue of America
magazine is an article on the
Pope as abbot. The author,
Christopher Ruddy, finds in the
Pope’s choice of name an
indication of the direction of
his pontificate. The presentation
reveals a profile of Benedictine
life as seen from this comparison.
I think you will find this
summary from my perspective
on the article, enlightening and
worth reflection.
Identifying the pope as abbot
sees the papal office as concerned
with leading his community to
a deeper encounter with God
through prayer and service in
communion with the members.
(continued pg. 15)
PRINCIPAL’S COLUMN
Reflections of My First Year…
With this school year now ended, I am excited to share with you the amazing year I’ve had at Benedictine High School. As wonderful as graduation
was, we were a little sad to bid farewell to a stellar group of seniors that includes five National Merit qualifiers, a West Point and an Air Force
Academy appointee, and nearly 100 other Men of Benedictine going to the finest colleges and universities. We are thrilled to welcome members of the
class of 2010 to their new home.
Next year finds us growing as we expand academic programs. First, we will add a fully staffed 18-station
writing lab with Dell laptops and electronic and textbook resources. The lab will be available to classes and
drop-in students for writing projects across the curriculum – a key point in our school improvement plan.
Exciting new courses are also in the works: Advanced Placement English, which will be team-taught, filled
up after the first round of registration, as did the new Advanced Placement Government course. We have
also added geography and additional government classes to complete our social studies curriculum.
An expanded retreat program includes opportunities for a wide variety of retreats. This year, students took
the lead and developed a dynamic and moving retreat based on the worldwide hallmarks of a Benedictine
education. This retreat, “Stronger Men of Benedictine,” had a remarkable impact on its first attendees.
Sal Miroglotta
Principal
We are sprucing up our athletic facilities in the Trueman Fieldhouse, starting with a facelift to the lobby
area and a $25,000+ renovation of the wooden gym floor. Add to that the remodeling of our wrestling
practice facility, and being “home” never looked or felt better. Our swim team will continue to its second
year, having made a big splash with its first team victory against Lake Catholic. Watch for the Benedictine
lacrosse team which debuts in 2006-2007.
Every day I see how fortunate we are to have seven Benedictine monks on staff and in our classrooms
teaching. Along with a talented lay staff (which we will expand for 2006-2007), they provide a sense of
welcome for all of us. We also hope to involve alumni as our young men explore career and postsecondary
options this year. Please know how grateful I am for the chance to be a part of the “Home of Champions.”
The ORA ET LABORA is
published three times a year by the
Benedictine Order of Cleveland,
Benedictine High School, and its
Alumni Association.
Abbot Clement Zeleznik, OSB
Chancellor
Rev. Albert Marflak, OSB
President
I am also excited to be working with a topnotch group of new teachers who will join our veteran faculty,
creating a dynamic and energetic teaching staff. More than anything else, the quality of teacher dictates
the quality of instruction in the classroom. At Benedictine, we are so fortunate to enjoy the presence of
faculty who are not just simply new or experienced, but who are dedicated and committed to Catholic
schools and to Benedictine in particular. These are the truly fine people in the front line of our work, the
ones who the students see, hear, and enjoy on a daily basis. My constant thanks goes to these creative and
tireless men and women who make up our faculty.
Peace,
Sal Miroglotta
Principal/Director of Education
Carol DiLillo-Kenney
Managing Editor
Rev. Michael Brunovsky, OSB
Abbey News Editor
Wally Mieskoski
Alumni News Editor
Sal Miroglotta
Principal/Director of Education
Benedictine Order of Cleveland
Benedictine High School
2900 M.L. King, Jr. Drive
Cleveland, OH 44104
(216) 421-2080
www.cbhs.net
2
BENGAL BRAVOS…NEWS FROM BENEDICTINE HIGH SCHOOL
Thanks to the Student Volunteers, the Boosters
and Those Who Give the “Gift of Life”
“Men of Benedictine” Contribute to Blue & White Success
Student Volunteers
In this issue of the Ora, you will read about the tremendous success
of the 4th Annual Blue & White Gala held on April 8th resulting in
more than $100,000 in proceeds for student scholarships and financial aid. In addition to the many parents, friends and alumni of
Benedictine listed in the Blue & White story, the actual beneficiaries –
our students – also contributed significantly to the event’s success by
volunteering of their time and talents.
Nicholas Alflen
Lewis Alvis
Alexander Andrade
Michael Baker
Ryan Barrett
Bradley Boggs
Nicholas Butina
Vincent Calvillo
Gordon Cameron
Richard Chlopecki
Kevin Connelly
Kevin Conochan
Michael DeFleice
Nicholas DiPalma
Joseph DiPaola
Andre Douglas II
James Drake, Jr.
Dwight Duncan
Daniel Elber
Uche Elueze
Anthony Fruits
Joseph Gambatese
Julian Gehring
Tyler George-Price
Christopher Gibson
Jack Gibson
Najee Goode
Student servers filing into the fieldhouse to begin their duties.
Seventy-nine “Men of Benedictine” volunteered as servers, parking
valets, coat checkers and auction helpers, with another 37 providing
the evening’s entertainment.
To all of the “Men of Benedictine” listed here – from our tuxedoclad servers to our valets braving the cold weather to our young men
hustling to retrieve auction items and finally to our band and choral
members—we salute you for your tremendous effort and thank you
for making us proud to be associated with the “Home of Champions.”
Evan Gulliford
Paul Havel
Aaron Haynesworth
Christopher
Heckman
Sean Higgins
Scott Hollifield
Chuck Iheama
Anthony Jamison
Chris Jeney
Nicholas Jones
William Kaiser
Colin Kendig
Corey Kendig
Jordan Kibler
Benjamin Kirsch
Ryan Kozelka
Alexander Leonard
Nathaniel Luengo
Frank Malec
Tyler Malick
Brian Marcinick
Jonathan Marshall
Jack Matuszewski
Kevin McKinley
Patrick Meil
Frank Mercurio
Eric Misch
James Mooney
Bryan Patton
Michael Pesosky
Jason Petroff
Brett Pohorence
Simeon Pratt
Kevin Rozman
Luke Rozman
Paul Rozman
Terrance Schaefer
J.P. Sennett
Michael Smetana
Colin St. John
Allan Stubbs
John Sullivan
Victor Wagner
Nick Ward
Benjamin Wcislo
Martin White
Mitch Wilcosky
Brandon Williams
Daniel Williams
Dwayne Williams II
Stephen Wood
Branden Woods
Jordan Jakab
Kevin Kelbach
Ryan Kozelka
Dan Maher
Jack Matuszewski
Ted Matuszewski
Donal McGinnMoore
Frank Mercurio
Kyle Misch
Jaaron Oliver
Eric Perko
Jason Petroff
Kevin Pronty
Kevin Rinz
Dan Romanski
Paul Rozman
Steve Sansom
Riley Smith
James Stubbs
Jay Thomas
Victor Wagner
Cordell Walton
Jeff Williams
Peter Wright
Student Entertainers
Alex Afzal
Chris Axelrod
Peter Barrett
Patrick Chounet
Michael Danner
Brian Devers
Andrew Douglas
Ben Drda
Matthew Fink
Clyde Fisher
Joe Fox
Tereé Harris
William Henry
Parent Margaret Misch with German exchange student volunteer Julian Gehring and son
Eric Misch ’06.
3
Bengal Bravos
(Continued)
Annual Booster sponsored Orientation Picnic 2005 on the BHS grounds.
Benedictine High School Booster Club – Supporting So Much More
Than Athletics
their families, friends and faculty, staff and their families. As a member
of the Benedictine community, one automatically becomes a member
of the Booster Club. The club does not assess fees; what it does,
however, is encourage participation in an organization that supports
all “Men of Benedictine.”
Another group of Bengal “gift givers” who work quietly behind the
scenes to provide monetary support and person power to make
nearly every Bengal event a success is the Benedictine Booster Club.
Evolving over the years to become so much more than an athletic
booster club, the purpose of the Boosters is to support Benedictine
High School and all of its programs.
The Booster Club supports Benedictine both financially and through
volunteer efforts. The Boosters generate revenue to support their
generous contributions through a Reverse Raffle in January, a Night
at the Races, and a magazine drive. A few of its past accomplishments
include the purchase of new student desks, dining hall tables and
new band uniforms. Most recently, the Boosters approved a $5,000
expenditure for furniture for the new writing lab.
In fact, membership goes well beyond parents and is open to all who
share an interest in promoting the general welfare of Benedictine
High School, its programs and its students. Membership includes
parents and guardians of current and former students, alumni and
One of the groups supported by the Boosters is the Athletic
Department, which receives a yearly lump sum donation that is used
at the discretion of the athletic director. The club also supports
student attendance at leadership development seminars and programs.
Additionally, the school newspaper, literary magazine and yearbook
receive a donation toward their operating budgets.
The Administration and Admissions and Marketing Offices can
always count on the Boosters to volunteer and support major events
including the annual open house, the annual orientation picnic, the
“We are Family” night, “Meet the Teachers” night and any other
activity for which their assistance is needed.
Simply put, our sincere appreciation and a hearty Bengal Bravo to
the Benedictine High School Booster Club and all of the many gifts
they provide to the Benedictine Community!
Parent Booster volunteers serving new students and parents at the picnic.
4
Bengal Bravos
(Continued)
Bravo to Mrs. Meg Mills, Guidance Office Secretary, for coordinating our drives and for offering that extra kindness and nurturing to
see our students through the process. Thanks to the many bakers for
providing the treats for donors and a great big thanks to the many
adult donors—faculty, staff, parents, alumni and friends who donate
blood at each drive.
And, a very special Bravo to the following young men for having the
courage, the thoughtfulness and the caring to donate “the gift of life.”
Anthony Alto
Mark Barath
Ryan Barrett
Anthony Bencie
Matt Bortnick
Gordon Cameron
Larin Collins
Nick Czernicki
Pat DiVincenzo
Dwight Duncan
Kevin Dunham
Mike Eizember
Patrick Ewing
Mike Filippo
Joe Fink
Elliot Fischbach
Clyde Fisher
Jordian Foster
Dan Fyfe
Chris Gibson
Jack Gibson
Todd Glinka
Najee Goode
Justin Hall
Tereé Harris
Jeff Heinrich
Blood Drive display thanking all donors, bakers and volunteers.
Red Cross Blood Drives at BHS – “Men of Benedictine”
Giving “The Gift of Life”
American Red Cross Blood Drives are held three times a year at
Benedictine. This year, we achieved our goals. The generosity of the
Benedictine community in these drives is recognized by the
American Red Cross each year by offering college scholarship monies
based on goals achieved or exceeded. The “Men of Benedictine”
earned $1500 in scholarship money this year with 2006 scholarships
of $500 each awarded to Larin Collins, Gary Waller, and Dan Fyfe.
Will Henry
Sean Higgins
Rob Hissong
Will Hughes-Lewis
Chuck Iheama
Chris Jeney
Nick Jones
Billy Kaiser
Brian Kennedy
Joe Kenney
Johrdan Knowles
Jeff Kuerbitz
Jonathan Marshall
Jack Matuszewski
Patrick McCarthy
Jay McGrath
Michael McKinley
Frank Mercurio
Justin Messina
Eric Misch
Mario Mormile
Stephen Munn
Jamie Neufer
John Newman
Giuseppe Pappalardo
Jeremy Payton
2005-06 Blood Drive Steering Committee posing behind their holiday blood drive banner.
Fr. Gary Hoover, OSB, preparing to donate blood.
5
Joe Petric
Jason Petroff
Alex Piteo
Brett Pohorence
Joe Redrick
Dan Reilly
Pedro Rodriguez
Dan Romanski
Luke Rozman
Tim Satava
Mike Schiavoni
Adam Schlessel
Kevin Scott
Dan Sherman
Zachary Smith
Alex Steigerwald
Nick Valentino
Jason Voigt
A. J. Walker
Gary Waller
Ben Wcislo
Brandon Williams
Devon Williams
Chris Woods
Benedictine High School Celebrates 76th Commencement
Class of 2006 Graduates 102
Benedictine High School’s Class of 2006 completed their high school journey
on May 22, with commencement exercises for 102 seniors held at the
Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist in downtown Cleveland.
Valedictorian Kevin Rinz, with a cumulative grade point average
(GPA) of 4.504 and earning distinction as a National Merit Finalist,
will be attending Northwestern University in the fall. The son of
James and Elizabeth, Kevin and his family are members of Gesu
parish. His younger twin brothers, Brian and Patrick, just completed
their sophomore year at Benedictine. While at BHS, Kevin was a
member of National Honor Society (NHS), the Band, Academic
Challenge, Latin and Key Clubs. He also was editor-in-chief of both
the school newspaper, The Bennet and The Spectrum literary magazine.
Class of 2006 at commencement services at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist.
and citizenship awards were distributed, the yearbook was dedicated,
the Student Council gavel was passed and Mr. Benedictine addressed
the entire student body.
The 2006 BHS salutatorian Jeffrey Kuerbitz, has a cumulative GPA
of 4.461 and also earned honors as a National Merit Finalist and a
Mr. Benedictine award finalist. Jeff and parents Steve and Carolyn,
two sisters and brother are members of St. Paschal Baylon Parish in
Highland Heights. While at BHS, Jeff was a member of NHS, the
Band, and Pro-Life, Latin and Key clubs. He was a four-year letterman
in soccer and track, served as student council vice-president, sports
editor of The Bennet, and associate editor of The Spectrum. Jeff will
be heading to the University of Dayton this fall.
Upon completion of the Awards Assembly, the seniors practiced for
commencement and then enjoyed an Alumni Association sponsored
gourmet hot dog barbecue on the school campus.
With bright futures ahead, the young men moved from the ranks of
students to alumni, joining some 9,000 “Men of Benedictine” who
have graduated from the school over its 80-year history. The 2006
commencement was highlighted by speeches from the valedictorian,
salutatorian and Mr. Benedictine. (See next page)
Congratulations Class of 2006 – Good Luck and God
Bless as you pursue your dreams!
Senior Class Tree Planting Ceremony.
Commencement evening capped off two days of events for the Class
of 2006. On Sunday, May 21, the seniors and their families attended
a Baccalaureate Mass of Thanksgiving celebrated by Abbot Clement
L. Zeleznik, Chancellor. Upon exiting beautiful St. Andrew Abbey
Church, the senior class continued a tradition with the annual tree
planting ceremony. A tree was planted on campus, near St. Andrew
Abbey, to commemorate the Class of ’06. The tree was a gift from
the Alumni Association to the new alumni. Immediately following
the tree planting ceremony, a President’s Reception was held in the
BHS Dining Hall.
Graduation Day, Monday, began with the annual awards ceremony
attended by the entire student body at which academic, attendance
“Hats off ” to the Class of 2006!
6
Gibson Elected 54th Mr. Benedictine
Becomes first of four finalist brothers to win the award
by Kevin Rinz – Reprinted from The Bennet
These five seniors were finalists for this year’s Mr. Benedictine award. They are winner Jack Gibson (far left), Jeff Kuerbitz, Frank Mercurio, Giuseppe Pappalardo and Adam Schlessel.
They were chosen as finalists by a vote of senior class members after meeting various academic, disciplinary and participatory requirements (photos courtesy of the Benedictine yearbook).
All five of this year’s finalists are members of the National Honor Society.
Jack Gibson has been elected the 54th Mr. Benedictine from a group
of five finalists by a vote of the student body. The other finalists for
the award were Jeff Kuerbitz, Frank Mercurio, Giuseppe Pappalardo
and Adam Schlessel.
Finalist Jeff Kuerbitz, like Gibson, was involved in student government
as the student council’s vice president this year. He was also a fouryear letterman in both soccer and track. Kuerbitz also ran crosscountry, helped edit the literary magazine this year and was the Key
Club treasurer and a member of the Latin Club. The salutatorian of
the class of 2006, Kuerbitz is the current sports editor of The Bennet.
Gibson’s three older brothers, R.J. ’00, Pat ’02 and Mike ’04, were all
finalists for the award, but Jack is the only brother to win it.
“Being named Mr. Benedictine for the class of 2006 is a tremendous
honor because the award is earned by virtue of a schoolwide vote,”
Gibson said. “For so many of the ‘Men of Benedictine’ to have voted
for me, especially considering the other candidates is an extraordinarily
humbling feeling.”
Mr. Cy Levkanich, who has coached Kuerbitz in cross-country and had
him in class, said that Kuerbitz is one of the more positive examples
of a maturing young man that he has seen. “Jeff is, I think, a classic
example of what I was always led to believe a ‘Man of Benedictine’ is
supposed to be,” he said. “Jeff is a throw-back to a better time. I have
a great deal of respect and admiration for him as a person. I enjoyed
working with him in the classroom and on the athletic field.”
Gibson, who is a member of St. Dominic Parish in Shaker Heights,
was the student council president this year and had been president of
the class of 2006 for each of the three preceding years. In addition to
working with student government, Gibson played football and CYO
basketball for four years, was on the track team for one year, was the
Lieutenant Governor of the Key Club’s 15th division this year and
was involved in the Italian Heritage Club, film club and The Bennet.
Kuerbitz will attend the University of Dayton next year. He and his
parents, Steve and Carolyn, his sisters, Catherine and Ellen, and his
brother, Danny, are members of St. Paschal Baylon parish in
Highland Heights.
Frank Mercurio is a member of St. Mary Parish. He lives with his
parents, Frank and Robin, and has a sister, Jamie. Mercurio played
football and baseball for four years, basketball for two and CYO
basketball for one at Benedictine. The vice president of the senior
class, Frank wrote for The Bennet, read morning announcements
after Kuerbitz read the prayer and served as the treasurer of the
Italian Heritage Club. He was also a member of SADD, the Key
Club and the jazz band.
According to Fr. Anselm Zupka, OSB, the moderator of the Key Club,
Gibson has been an effective Lieutenant Governor. “Jack is probably
one of the most energetic Lieutenant Governors I’ve experienced in my
association with the Key Club,” he said. “He’s a great communicator,
and he was able to get the clubs in our division to work together.”
English teacher Mark Francioli, who had Gibson in class this year
and last and worked with him in the Italian Heritage Club, the film
club and on The Bennet, praised his efforts in school. “Jack’s a true
scholar, besides his other fine qualities,” he said. “He pursues what
he’s interested in, regardless of things like credits and grades.” Gibson
will attend the United States Military Academy at West Point, New
York, next year.
Head baseball coach Brian Sliwinski said, “Frank’s a three-year
letterman, and through the years he’s shown leadership to our younger
guys both on and off the field. When his opportunity came on the
field, he got it done, and he also got it done in the classroom.”
Mercurio received All-State Academic honors in baseball this year.
(continued pg. 8)
7
Gibson Elected 54th Mr. Benedictine (Continued)
According to Mercurio, students made a good choice for this year’s
Mr. Benedictine. “Jack, in my opinion, is probably the most deserving
candidate,” he said. “I’m proud to have him represent us as the 2006
Mr. Benedictine.” Mercurio will attend the United States Air Force
Academy in Colorado Springs next year.
super job as senior class president and is extremely organized and
hard-working.” Pappalardo is a member of Holy Angels Parish.
Adam Schlessel came to Benedictine from Richmond Heights
Middle School. He has played hockey and baseball here for the past
four years, serving as a captain of the hockey team this year and last
and of the baseball team this year. Schlessel also played golf in his
freshman year and was a member of the Italian Heritage Club, the
culinary club, and the Benedictine Multi-Cultural Organization.
Giuseppe Pappalardo will head off to Marquette University in
Milwaukee, Wisconsin in the fall. While at Benedictine, Pappalardo
lettered twice in four years of football and was on the track team. He
was also president of the senior class and Italian Heritage Club and a
member of the culinary club and Benedictine’s CYO basketball team.
Academic Dean Skip Pisa, appreciated the Mercyhurst baseball
recruit’s work ethic. “Schlessel is just a more down-to-earth guy,”
he said. “He studies hard, works hard and participates in everything.
Out of all those guys, I would have voted for Schlessel. He’s just a
gentleman.”
Senior class moderator Marcia Pymn, enjoyed working with
Pappalardo. “Pappy is one of my all-time favorite students,” she said.
“He has such great love and dedication to the school. He’s done a
Benedictine is…Blessed (Continued)
over the past 12+ years, they also have donated auction items for the
annual Blue & White Gala, Booster Night at the Races and Oktoberfest.
Most Treasured Volunteer. We could not have chosen three more
deserving volunteers than Carol & Lee Sattelmeyer and Marie
Golias. Thanks so much for all you do for our community!
We salute Carol and Lee as treasured friends and two of our truly
“Most Treasured Volunteers.”
Carol and Lee Sattelmeyer’s involvement at Benedictine began
when their son, David, entered Benedictine in 1993. It was Lee who
first became involved, serving on the Benedictine Booster Board,
eventually becoming president. Lee also was a regular faithful
volunteer at Jacobs Field concession stands with proceeds from that
fundraiser going toward the purchase of dining hall tables and chairs
and student desks.
Marie Golias - Many of you may have wondered over the years,
“who is that blonde woman sitting with Father Dominic?” at various
athletic events. It is none other than one of our Most Treasured
Volunteers, Marie Golias. Marie is the daughter of Wanda and Red
Golias ’47 and sister of Bob ’70, Richard ’74, Karl ’78, Tim ’81 and
Paul ’86. Marie’s involvement with Benedictine dates back to the late
1960s and continues to this day. Fr. Andrew was like a grandfather to
Marie, and she was the devoted granddaughter, assisting him when
he was active at the Abbey and faithfully visiting him through the
last days of his life. Marie began volunteering at Benedictine when
she was still in high school, working on the annual Roast Beef
Dinner and cheering on the Bengals at all of the sporting events.
In those early days, Carol preferred to work behind the scenes. Carol
officially threw her hat in the ring when Fr. Anselm recruited her to
help with Oktoberfest. David graduated in 1997, but the two-year
gap between David’s graduation and son Jonathan’s enrollment didn’t
keep the Sattelmeyers away; they continued to give of their time to
the Benedictine community.
More recently, she along with her father, has chaired the Alumni
Phone-a-thon for the past three years, has served on the Blue and
White Gala Steering Committee for the past four years, and chaired
various subcommittees for the annual Abbey Benefit. Whenever there
has been a need, Marie has been there. Just ask Fr. Albert about her
leadership with the Slovak Catholic Federation. Or ask Fr. Michael,
who is the person who supplies the treats for the Oblate meetings, or
Fr. Jozef about his efforts to build support for the Benedictine
Monastery in Slovakia. Or Fr. Anselm about her work with the
Shaker Kiwanis Club. The list goes on and on — for all this, and for
just being our treasured friend, we salute Marie Golias as one of our
inaugural “Most Treasured Volunteers.”
This time is was Lee’s turn to work behind the scenes; Carol took on
an active role with the Booster Board, heading up events such as the
twice-yearly faculty appreciation breakfasts. Every time there is a
need for volunteers, the Sattelmeyers are there. Lee can be found
cooking for the sports banquets and Lenten Fish Fry. Carol is always
first in line with baked goods for the fish fry, open houses, and
always last to leave – making sure that everything is cleaned up.
Although Jonathan graduated in 2003, Carol continues to play an
active role on the Booster Board, is a member of the Oktoberfest
committee and coordinated the Key Club Faculty Brunch. Carol and
Lee have not only given generously and continuously of their time
8
ATHLETICS
Winter Sports Summary
Excerpted from The Bennet by Martin White and Ryan Barrett
Benedictine winter sports, basketball, wrestling, hockey and bowling
have all come to a close.
After defeating Walsh Jesuit at the Stow District Championship, the
basketball team lost to Wooster Triway 76-63, Thursday, March 16,
2006 in the Canton Regional semifinal.
The Triway team went on a 19-0 scoring run in the first quarter and
jumped to a 44-14 lead by halftime. The Bengals rallied in the second
half scoring 49 points but were unable to overcome the deficit.
2005-2006 Benedictine Hockey Team
The final varsity roster included seniors Rudy Evans, Kyle McKee
and A.J. Walker, juniors Walter Boykins, Aaron Horn, Dan Reilly,
Ryan Stoffko, Martin White, Brandon Woods. Junior Alex Afzal,
sophomore Matt Vanni and freshmen Wardell Brown, Romel
Dismuke, Jevon Frazier, Marty Sweeny, and Ebosele Ayewoh were
brought up from the junior varsity team.
The wrestling team ended its season by sending two wrestlers to the
state meet in Columbus. Sophomore Ricky King finished eighth in
the 119-pound weight class. Senior Tyler Heil qualified for the State
Meet in the 215-pound class. Senior John Buras also traveled to
Columbus as an alternate in the 152-pound class.
Head Coach Rob Stircula concluded, “It was great that we won
districts. The program has a lot to build on for next year. The
Canton Memorial Civic Center will see us again.”
Five Bengals qualified to the regional meet. King finished third in his
weight class, Heil finished fourth, and Buras finished fifth. Seniors
Gavin Whitely and Andrew Scott were the other Bengal wrestlers
to qualify.
The Bengal hockey season is hard to define in any other way than up
and down. The team played the toughest schedule they ever have,
and it showed in their record, but the wins and losses don’t necessarily
show how competitive the team was. They had some success including
making the Baron Cup for the fourth straight year and making it to
the third round of the playoffs.
Swimmers Make
a Big Splash
In the state tournament, the Bengals breezed through the first two
games shutting out Kenston 8-0 and Orange 6-0. The Bengals then
fell to the Gilmour Lancers 3-2 in a back and forth game. Seniors
Adam Schlessel and Ryan Barrett each contributed a goal.
Yes, Benedictine has a Swim Team! With the help of parents,
Don and Marilyn Wagner, the school established a swim team
this year. The team even won their first meet, defeating Lake
Catholic, 62-57. They are coached by Mr. Charlie Lownes.
The season was marked by several highlights. Schlessel finished the
season with the most points (goals and assists) of any Red Division
player in division games, was voted to the second team all Red
League and was awarded the Benedictine Dan O’Shaughnessy award.
Barrett scored the second most points in the Red Division and was
given the Benedictine MVP award.
Optimism runs
high, as the team
will have many
returnees next
season.
Schlessel, Barrett, and senior Frank Malec were voted to first team
Red East Division, and Barrett and Malec were voted into the senior
all-star game. Sophomore goalie Todd Marshall ended the season with
the 9th highest save percentage out of the 22 goalies in the red division.
Kevin Connelly was given the award for Most Improved Player.
Members of the swim team are: (left to right) Sean
Spinks ’07, Dominic Rosace ’07, Frank Merela ’07,
Sean Higgins ’08 and Victor Wagner ’09. Missing is
Anthony Paolucci ’08.
9
Track Team Makes Districts
Field Athletes Stand Out in Area Meets
Excerpted from The Bennet by Jeff Kuerbitz
Tomorrow at 10 a.m. the track team will compete in their Division
II district meet at Lakewood. The meet began yesterday with
preliminaries for the sprinting events and a few of the relays.
Head Coach Bob Holpuch said, “We’re pretty solid in all the events.
We should score in a lot of them. If our seniors perform well in
events that they’re strong in, we should have a lot of first places.”
Events which earn one of the top four places at the meet will move
on to the regional meet next Thursday and Saturday at Ravenna, and
from there athletes will have an opportunity to compete in the state
championship meet at Columbus.
District Champs – 2006 Bengal Track Team
Coach Al, the throwing coach, expects even more of throwers Najee
Goode and senior Tereé Harris. He said, “Najee’s had a good impact.
What he’s doing in the disc is probably the best in the district, but
he hasn’t totally focused. He’s almost a natural disc thrower, but if he
focused on it, he could be more than an average thrower.”
Several Bengals will begin the post-season with experience at that
level of competition. Seniors John Buras, Jaaron Oliver, Chuck
Iheama and Teree Harris and junior Najee Goode all completed in
regionals last year. Senior Kyle McKee reached the regionals in 2004.
Buras, Oliver and Iheama are also the team’s captains.
Postscript:
“Jaaron, Chuck and John have really been solid leaders on our team,”
coach Holpuch said. This will be the first year of the Bengals’ return
to the Division II state tournament after two seasons competing in
Division I.
Bengals District Champs with a score of 127
1st place winners:
John Buras – 800 meter run
Jaaron Oliver – Long jump
Najee Goode – Shot put
4x400 relay: Chuck Iheama, Jordan Hall, Chris Alvis, John Buras
The team ended its regular season last Friday at the Catholic
Olympics at St. Ignatius. The Bengals earned the second most
medals of all the teams at the meet. Jaaron Oliver won the long
jump. John Buras took first place in the 800-meter run. Chuck
Iheama won both the 110-meter hurdles and the 300-meter hurdles.
2nd Place winners:
Chuck Iheama – 110 hurdles and 300 hurdles
Najee Goode – Discus
4x800 relay: Scott Poti, J. P. Sennett, Chris Jeney, John Buras
Junior Stephen Morgan said, “The season went pretty well, and I’m
pretty sure we’ll be sending a few events down to states.”
Regional winners:
Jaaron Oliver – Long jump
4th place: Chuck Iheama – 300 meter hurdles
The Bengals ran to a third place finish May 6 at the Gahanna
Invitational in Columbus. Iheama took first place in the 110-meter
hurdles, and John Buras finished second in the 800-meter run. The
Bengals finished second in the 4x100 and 4x200-meter relays.
5th place: Chuck Iheama – 110 hurdles
Najee Goode – Shot put
According to the Plain Dealer, Kyle McKee is among the area’s four
leading high jumpers with a jump of 6' 6", and Najee Goode’s discus
throw of 158' 9" is the area’s fourth best. Coach Holpuch said that
Jaaron Oliver’s long jump of 21' 5" at the Catholic Olympics should
place him 8th in the area.
State Meet
Jaaron Oliver placed 6th in the long jump
10
2006 Bengal Baseball Recap
Excerpted from The Bennet by Eric Misch
Adam Schlessel said, “Hard workouts, a strong will to win and clutch
hitting enabled us to score runs and were the keys to our success this
season. Our defense was able to step up when it needed to.”
The Varsity baseball team clawed
its way to a 19-6 record going into
their playoff game against Orange
on Wednesday, May 17. The game
was originally scheduled for
Tuesday but was rained out. If the
team wins against Orange, they
advance to play either Holy Name
or Padua. If victorious, they will
play in the regional championship.
Senior pitcher Frank Mercurio said,
“I think we’ve prepared ourselves
well during the year. We came
together as a team, we’ve had
people step up, and I think we’ll
really do well in the playoffs.”
Ryan Stoffko on the mound.
Adam Schlessel at bat.
The Bengals were given a number
one seed in the playoffs. They defeated the Streetsboro Rockets
Tuesday, May 9, to advance to Tuesday’s game at Bedford.
Postscript: The Bengals lost a heartbreaker to Orange, finally played
on May 20 and finished their season at 19-7. Congratulations to the
team and coaches for a great season.
The team was also scheduled to play a regular season game Monday
against St. Thomas Aquinas but that game was also cancelled due to
rain.
Following is a listing of the 2006 Baseball Awards:
The Bengals lost to Midpark and defeated Fairview in a doubleheader played in Fairview May 6. They beat the Gilmour Lancers
11-1 the day before. The Bengals swept Villa Angela Saint Joseph in
a double header April 29.
• Mike Easler Achievement Award: Greg Elber
• Coach Bossu Spirit Award: Cory Pecoraro & Chris Myers
• Coach Rozanski Coach’s Award: Ryan Stoffko & Frank
Mercurio
• Mr. Baseball Award: Adam Schlessel
• Academic All-State Honors: Eric Misch, Frank Mercurio &
Adam Schlessel
The Bengals maintained a stronghold on the tenth spot in the
Division II state rankings for most of the season. Senior catcher
2006 BHS Varsity Football Schedule
DAY
Saturday
Saturday
Friday
Friday
Friday
Saturday
Friday
Friday
Saturday
Saturday
DATE
08/26
09/02
09/08
09/15
09/22
09/30
10/06
10/13
10/21
10/28
OPPONENT
St. Edward
Lake Catholic
Euclid
Fremont Ross
Columbus Bishop Watterson
Lincoln West
Youngstown Cardinal Mooney
Walsh Jesuit
Cincinnati Elder
Columbus St. Francis de Sales
11
LOCATION
Lakewood
Mentor
Euclid
Fremont Ross
Hagley Field – Columbus
Home
Warren Harding – Mollenkopf Stadium
Walsh Jesuit
Cincinnati Elder
Home
TIME
7:00P
7:30P
7:30P
7:30P
7:30P
7:30P
7:30P
7:30P
7:00P
7:30P
PRESIDENT’S COLUMN
Greetings Alumni, Parents, Students,
Faculty, Staff and Friends of Benedictine,
We have just completed our 2005-06 school year. We have accomplished great things and there are many successes for us to celebrate as you can see
from reading this issue of Ora et Labora.
The first is our Seventy-Sixth Commencement
Exercises of the Class of 2006. The Cathedral of
St. John the Evangelist was standing room only as
we gathered to recognize, honor and celebrate our
newest alumni. These fine “Men of Benedictine” have
a bright future ahead of them, and the opportunity
to make a positive contribution to the common
good of our society, country and world. We wish
them Godspeed and success in living a Gospel
value-based life.
Father Albert Marflak, OSB
President
The Administration and Faculty have begun to
implement our School Improvement Plan through
which we have full accreditation in the Ohio
Catholic School Accrediting Association and the
North Central Association.
We are continuing to implement our administrative
reorganization of the school, adopted by the Board
of Trustees three years ago. The plan, besides
redefining administrative positions, more importantly
establishes a collaborative, shared leadership for the
school. Furthermore, an overall Strategic Plan
2006-2010, has been adopted to continue and
advance the educational excellence of Benedictine.
This plan will be posted on our Web site and
published for distribution.
Likewise, I personally celebrate the completion of
my second year as president of Benedictine High
School. I would like to share with you what I have
noticed and heard as our most inspiring achievement
for the “Home of Champions.” I call it the
“Benedictine experience.”
12
Whenever I have met individually or in a group,
any alumni or friend of Benedictine and talk begins
of their experience of Benedictine, words like
community, family, friendship and a sense of belonging
are used to describe the Benedictine experience. A
fundamental and deep sense of community defines
Benedictine. Benedictine exists because each of us
has a personal commitment to the mission and
purpose of Benedictine. We are all about the
Catholic Benedictine tradition not only of education,
but also of community life. This means that
although we may have our differences, our dedication
to the common good of Benedictine prevails.
Whatever is best for our students is what is best for
Benedictine. Our mission as alumni, parents, faculty, staff, and friends of Benedictine, is not only to
help our students to prepare for college, but most
significantly to help them to prepare for life. We
understand this as not just life in this world, but
ultimately fullness of life in the Heavenly Kingdom
of God. Benedictine is a school in the Lord’s service, in which conversion, forgiveness, affirmation
and compassion are experienced. The Benedictine
experience is a way of community life to help each
of us to know the Peace of Christ as it is spoken of
in the Gospels.
Peace! This indeed, is the oldest motto of our
common Benedictine tradition, PAX. Pax tecum.
Peace be to you.
NEWS FROM THE OFFICE OF ADVANCEMENT
Blue & White Gala
Our 320 guests were “welcomed home,” the theme of the Blue &
White Gala, by our highly impressive “Men of Benedictine.” These
100-plus young men greeted, valet parked, served dinner and
entertained at the April 8 event. Veteran English teacher and alumnus
Mark Francioli ’71, served as master of ceremonies, hosting the gala
with humor and aplomb and auctioneer Sal Miroglotta, BHS
Principal, effectively engaged the competitive spirits of high bidders.
Gala Steering Committee members Bill Andrews ’88, Fr. Michael
Brunovsky, OSB; Gala Coordinator Margaret Ann Gibson; Marie A.
Golias; Fred Kabat ’48; Marketing and PR Director Carol DiLilloKenney; Accounts Receivable Manager Rosemary Lucas; President Fr.
Albert Marflak, OSB ’65, Advancement Director Karen Stroh,
Advancement Office Assistant Ann Beltz and Alumni Coordinator
Lori Conley.
Held for the first time in the
Trueman Memorial
Fieldhouse, the gymnasium
was transformed into a
beautiful ballroom-style
setting with lovely floral
arrangements, soft lighting
and live music provided by
Benedictine students.
Underwritten by sponsors
Frank ’83 and Lisa Mauceri
and the Henry Dobrski
Family, this annual event
raised more than $100,000
to provide scholarships for
our students, 70% of whom
receive tuition assistance to
attend Benedictine.
Tom Rini ’56 and Nobby
Lewandowski ’55, both
“Mr. Benedictine” from their
respective classes, were
honored this year for their
unwavering support of the
school that helped shape the
men they have become.
Gala chairwoman was Jackie
Dottore with help from
honorary chairmen and alumni,
Joseph Ditchman, Jr. ’63,
Jamie Georgeson ’78, Matthew
Joyce ’91, Thomas Perciak ’66
and Dennis Sutcliffe ’69;
Corporate Chairs Bob Matejka
’60 and Chris Mack;
SAVE THE DATE!
Photos courtesy of Currents and Misch Photography.
Special thanks to parents,
alumni, faculty and friends:
Gino Andreano, Laura Bertsch,
Gary Boggs, Michael Brown,
Maria & Angelo Calvillo,
Donna Carey, Teresa Chounet,
Mike Conley, Michelle Delisio,
Charlie Dottore ’84, Cassandra
Elston-Baker, Ford Fram, Mark
Francioli ’71, Louise & Joe
Gambatese ’71, Jim Gibson,
Maureen Gilday-Gulliford,
Bechara Hatoum, Joe &
Margaret Havel, Bob Hilfer ’73,
Peggy & Dale Jakab ’68,
Autumn & Jeff Jeney, Fred
Kabat ’48, Mark Karpoff,
Debbie Kendig, Lisa King,
Mary Malick, Jan McAndrew,
Yvette McClain, Sal Miroglotta,
Brian Misch, Eileen & Joe
Pappalardo, Kieran Patton,
Jeremy Paul ’01, Ellen Pesosky,
Charlotte Pinkston, Gary
Ricketts, Susan Rothmann,
Richard Salem ’90, Tom Salem,
Paul Sansom, Mary Ellen
Satava, Ed Skok, Tom Stroh,
Laura & Tom Sweeney & their
children Charlie ’03 and
Colleen, Marilyn & Don
Wagner, Ray Wilcosky, and
Monica & Bob Williams.
The 5th Annual Blue & White Gala will be held
Saturday, April 21, 2007 in the BHS Trueman Fieldhouse
13
Thank You Heritage Society Members
Benedictine High School and St. Andrew Abbey would like to extend their heartfelt thanks for the generous
gifts and planning that have been made by members of the Heritage Society.
A dinner was held on May 2, 2006, to honor the Heritage Society
members. The appreciation dinner took place at St. Andrew Abbey.
The members began the evening with vespers, followed by a social
and hors d’oeuvres. After the social, everyone proceeded downstairs
to the dining hall for a delicious dinner catered by Tom’s Country
Place. The evening concluded with short presentations by Abbot
Clement, regarding the state of the Abbey and Father Albert,
concerning the status of the High School.
current “Men of Benedictine.” The other bequest is helping to fund
the renovations of the heating system at the Abbey.
Another Heritage Society member has recently established a charitable
gift annuity. The benefactor was able to establish a memorial fund in
honor of her late husband, a graduate of the Class of 1941. She
stated that her husband had fond memories of Benedictine and was
proud to be the class treasurer. She further added, “The foundation
and education that he received at Benedictine made a significant
contribution to his success in life.” The annuity will provide income
payments throughout her life and then provide financial aid and
scholarships to deserving students.
Everyone enjoyed the evening that was filled with prayer, good food,
conversation, and friendship. This dinner allows the members of the
Heritage Society to interact with each other and the monks of
St. Andrew Abbey.
You may already qualify as a member of the Heritage Society if you
have made provisions for Benedictine High School or St. Andrew
Abbey in your estate plan. Estate gifts may take the form of bequests,
charitable remainder trusts, charitable gift annuities, or beneficiary
designations.
The Heritage Society was formed to honor those alumni and friends
who have made commitments to Benedictine High School and
St. Andrew Abbey through their estate plans. The Heritage Society
acknowledges the vision of these individuals and affords them our
highest appreciation.
If you have named Benedictine High School or St. Andrew Abbey in
your estate plan, or if you have not yet done so, but are interested in
making a planned gift, please contact William Andrews at
216.421.2080 ext. 429.
Recently, three Heritage Society members left major bequests to
Benedictine High School and St. Andrew Abbey. Two of the bequests
provided significant funding for financial aid and scholarships to our
Birthday Bucks Winners Announced
Winners of the 2005 Birthday Bucks were drawn by
Bishop Roger Gries ’54
Grand Prize: $15,000 – Jill & Jamie Georgeson ’78
(Jill or Jamie receives $5,000 on his/her next three birthdays.
They also win $500 as sellers of their own grand prize ticket.)
2nd Prize: $3,000 – Brenda Watts
(Brenda receives $1,000 on her next three birthdays.)
3rd Prize: $500 – Sue & Bob Zulandt
Be on the lookout
for this year’s Birthday
Bucks raffle. Tickets will
be mailed in late
October.
Thanks to all buyers and sellers who worked
so hard to make this annual fundraiser successful.
14
ABBOT’S COLUMN
Pope Benedict XVI and the Benedictines (continued)
Benedictine spirituality may not
appear as spectacular as other
spiritualities, since it focuses on the
ordinary, the routines of daily life.
This allows for the flow of a deep
life rooted in prayerful attentiveness
to God along with the hospitality
of community—a school of the
Lord’s service.
service. The Eucharist gathers the Church in adoration, sending it in
procession above and beyond the walls of our churches. Benedict XVI
reminds us that Communion issues forth in mission, but finds its
source and summit in the Eucharist, in the worship of God and the
sanctification of humanity. The Benedictine Rule’s statement: “that in
all things God may be glorified,” becomes in the words of Benedict
XVI: “without adoration, there is not transformation of the world.”
Leadership as Listening
If Christ is the substance of Benedict XVI’s pontificate, listening is its
style. The first word of the Rule is listen. He stated at his installation:
“my real program of governance is not to do my own will, not to pursue
my own ideas, but to listen, together with the whole Church, to the
world and the will of the Lord.” The Rule says that the abbot, who is
to listen first to Christ, must also listen to the whole community,
especially to the junior monks. Obedience is listening first and foremost.
Benedict XVI has focused thus far
on three key elements of the Rule
of Saint Benedict to shape his basic
thrust: love for the person of Christ,
Abbot Clement Zeleznik, OSB
leadership as listening, and his
interpretation of Vatican II as an experience of renewal in continuity
with the past.
The Pope appears determined that Catholics and others listen to
Christ, not himself, thus focusing on the essentials: Christ, Scriptures,
Sacraments, Service.
Love for the Person of Christ
Monks are called to “prefer nothing whatever to Christ.” This phrase
from the Rule was quoted by Benedict XVI in his first general audience
and shows its application in his focus on “personalism.” Christianity
cannot be reduced to morality, social activism, or an intellectual system.
It must be centered on the presence of God in the person of Christ.
If Christ is defined by his prayerful encounter with the Father, we in
turn are defined by our encounter with Jesus, who takes us by the
hand in the gift of His word and sacraments and thereby shares his
life with us. Thus, we are not witnesses only of an idea, but of a
person. Hence, the need to be with Jesus: establishing a personal
relationship with Him.
Interpretations of Vatican II
Benedictines demonstrate that rootedness in the past makes possible the
truest creativity. They exemplify the dual movement of resourcement
(return to the sources) and aggiornamento (updating in light of the
signs of the times) that powered the Council to reach back and then
move forward.
Accepting a model of reform for the Council affirmed that only an
emphasis on continuity of principles will bear fruit in true church
renewal. Here looking back at the sources and updating need each other.
That encounter with Christ takes place in quiet prayer where Christ’s
love for us is known. This also takes place in the liturgy, the in
prayerful reading of scripture (lectio divina), and in the ordinary daily
work of our lives. Our move to contemplation in this encounter with
Christ allows for a deeper, more expansive engagement with the world.
Benedict XVI offers to all to find in Christ not the destruction of our
freedom and happiness, but the true fullness of who we are. As it is
written in the Rule: “What, dear brothers, is more delightful than this
voice of the Lord calling us? See how the Lord in his love shows us the
way to life.” The Pope and Saint Benedict’s abbot, in the gentleness
of his person and the quiet joy of his words, show that we ignore the
call of the Lord to our own sadness.
This thrust allows the pope to point out how adoration and worship
are basic postures in life. The loving gaze on the Lord leads to fruitful
Save the Date
S
A
I
N
November 12, 2006
T
ANDREW SVORAD
A
B
B
E
Benefit
Y
At the beautiful
Executive Caterers at Landerhaven
For more information call
(216) 721-5300 extension 0
15
Abbey Cloister Renovations Near Completion
Through the winter, spring and into the summer the monks of the abbey have done something they rarely do: move out of their rooms into
temporary quarters. This has been necessitated by the largest renovation in the monastic cloister since its construction in 1952.
Although the abbey underwent a large construction project from
1984-1986 with the addition of an abbey church, infirmary, guest
quarters, kitchen and refectory, garages and cloister walk, these were
entirely new structures. They replaced the original orphanage buildings
first occupied by the monks in 1929 and whose upper floors were
unable to be utilized for many years due to severe deterioration.
The original cloister wing with the individual cells of the monks,
completed in 1952, remained largely as it had been constructed until
it recently became apparent that the original steam heating apparatus
needed to be replaced. “Cracks in the steam pipes through the
concrete floors allowed the steam to escape in several areas and that
led to decrease in pressure through parts of the system,” Brother
Theodore, abbey treasurer explained. “This also caused the boilers to
work harder, decreased efficiency and had a reciprocal effect on the
abbey’s use of natural gas.” Budgetary constraints necessitated a
solution, as well as the fact that outdated thermostats in the monks’
cells were ineffective in controlling temperature. Air in the pipes that
could not be bled from the system led to loud knocking in the pipes
through the abbey walls every time the system would move into
action. Some monks commented “it sounded as if something were
going to burst right through the walls in some places; the noise was
that loud.” This would be particularly problematic when the steam
went through at 11:00 pm and 3:00 am, doing wonders for a good
night’s sleep!
New boilers for the heating system.
in the outer walls of the monastery. The new system was designed to
utilize ceiling space in the cloister hallways. Each room would have a
heating/cooling input vent as well as one for air return. Each floor
would have an HVAC Alteration unit that would bring fresh air
from outside and pump it through filters into the system. “This cuts
down on both the amount of recirculated air as well as dust moving
through the system,” Brother Theodore commented.
Beginning with the fourth floor on January 3rd, the monks had to
relocate to other parts of the monastery, floor by floor, for approximately six weeks at a time. On the fourth floor (novitiate), a solid
ceiling needed to be constructed as there had not been a solid floor
to the attic above and some asbestos needed to be removed in the
hallway before the system was installed. Each room would have its
own thermostat so that temperature could be regulated by each
monk according to his level of comfort. At the time of publication,
the timetable for completion is nearly on schedule, with the top
three floors already completed, the first floor nearing completion,
and the basement units including boilers and cooling system unit
in place.
When each floor is finished, the most noticeable cosmetic change
for the monks is that the hallway ceilings have been lowered approximately 10 inches. Since the hallway lighting had previously been in
the ceiling, new, super efficient, long-lasting fluorescent lights now
grace the walls just under the ceiling and emit more light than previously possible with the old incandescent glass-globed ceiling fixtures.
Ductwork for new system installed in the ceiling of the cloister halls.
Working with BHS alumnus Hank Bloom, owner and operator of
Environmental Conditioning Services, Brother Theodore received
community approval in May of 2005 for a new heating/cooling
system in the abbey cloister that would work primarily through hot
water rather than steam and would also include a central air cooling
system for the abbey through the summer months. Designed by
Doan Pyramid, LLC, the project gradually took shape. Target
Construction was contracted to complete the job through alumnus
Joe Lorek ’71. The old system consists of pipes and heating registers
Brother Theodore also commented that Phase II of the project will
include boiler replacement and cabinet heating/air conditioning units
throughout the remainder of the monastery building. “The goal is to
maximize efficiency and to reduce energy costs as much as possible
throughout the entire plant.” Costs for the project have been met
largely through a trust fund generously bequeathed to the monastery
by the Dzurilla Family. Both phases of the project are scheduled to
be completed by mid-September.
16
Brother Finbar Professes Vows
On January 14, as his family and the monastic community looked on, Brother Finbar Ramsak ended his year of novitiate and professed his first vows
in the monastic community. Now known as a junior monk, Brother Finbar has professed vows for a period of three years. At the end of those three
years, he will be invited to join the community for life through what is known as solemn profession.
A native of North Olmsted, Ohio, Brother Finbar was born on July
16, 1977, the oldest of four children born to Joseph and Gerri Ann
Ramsak. He attended St. Brendan grade school and then graduated
from St. Ignatius High School in 1996. He earned a bachelor’s
degree in history from Mercyhurst College in Erie, PA in 2001.
From that time on, until entering the community in July, 2004, he
worked for the Martens ambulance service, transporting elderly
throughout the Cleveland area to appointments, nursing homes
and hospitals.
With his family: Mother Gerri Ann, grandmother Rita Duff, brother Todd, father Joseph,
brother Brendan and sister Jennifer.
in changing situations, but gave him a strong foundation in faith.
“My family and especially my parents always gave a great witness to the
importance of faith. When I doubted in the past, or needed correction,
they reminded me that not only they, but God expected better.”
Since profession, Brother Finbar has been completing his course of
studies in philosophy and theology at John Carroll University and
Borromeo Seminary. He will continue these studies next year in
preparation for the graduate theology program at Saint Vincent
Seminary in Latrobe, PA, where monks of the abbey have studied for
the priesthood for the last 14 years. Apart from his studies, he can be
found assisting Brother Gabriel in the sacristy, helping Father Bede
with emcee duties at abbey liturgies, and working maintenance in the
monastery and the abbey grounds.
Brother Finbar professes his vows before Abbot Clement and the community.
May the Lord grant you many blessings in the monastic life, Brother
Finbar, and may He grant you the grace of perseverance in his service.
Ad Multos Annos.
Although very proud of his Irish heritage on his mother’s side, the
monastic community keeps reminding him that he is half Slovenian
from this father’s side. Christened Brian, he took the religious name
Finbar in honor of both the 12th century Irish monastic bishop and
his maternal grandfather. Brother Finbar has a delightful demeanor
and a great sense of humor that appeals to young and old alike. He is
an industrious person who has many talents in a number of areas,
while always eager to learn new things. His first contact with the
community was through Fr. Bede Kotlinski and his pastoral assistance
at Immaculate Conception Church in Cleveland.
Trained in family life with siblings Todd, Brendan and Jennifer,
Brother Finbar easily adjusted to community life “where you don’t
always get what you want.” Family life also trained him to be flexible
Brother Finbar signs the profession document on the altar witnessed by Prior Bede and
Subprior Kenneth.
17
Fr. Paschal Celebrates Silver Priesthood Jubilee
On Sunday, June 11, family, monastic community and friends of Fr. Paschal Petcavage, OSB, joined together to celebrate his twenty-five years of
dedicated priestly ministry. The celebration began with Mass at Assumption Parish in Broadview Heights, where Fr. Paschal currently serves as
associate pastor, and continued with a catered reception in the parish hall.
The eldest child of Albert (deceased) and
Floreceda Petcavage, he attended St. Agnes
grade school and graduated from Elyria
Catholic High School in 1971. He went on to
Marian College in Indianapolis, receiving a
BA in music education in 1975. Fr. Paschal
attended St. Mary Seminary in Cleveland and
was ordained to the diocesan priesthood
in 1981.
Few monks have had the adventuresome life
story of this man. He served first as a diocesan
priest in Westlake at St. Bernadette parish, in
Garfield Heights at SS. Peter and Paul parish,
and in Amherst at St. Joseph parish. Feeling a
call to the religious life, he joined the
Congregation of St. Joseph in 1991. After his
initial formation, he was sent to be on the
faculty of Paraclete High School in Quartz
Hill, California (North of Los Angeles).
During this time he also served as an associate
at Blessed Junipero Serra parish.
Fr. Paschal
‘always look forward, never look back; only in this way can we bend
with the winds of change and still be a support for future generations.’
My hope is that all of us will continue to grow in our faith together
without being stuck in the past. Founded on our tradition, we are
called to move forward to meet the needs of people today.”
In September of 1996, Fr. Paschal entered St. Andrew Abbey, much
closer to home and family, and professed vows as a Benedictine
monk on March 8, 1998. His educational experience immediately
proved valuable to the high school, and for six years he taught
courses in Theology, English, Spanish, French and Music
Appreciation. An accomplished organist and pianist, Fr. Paschal
greatly assisted the liturgical music of the monastery. He also
delighted in preparing the music, performing and coaching students
for the annual Drama Club musical.
It is a joke among the monks that everywhere we go, we often find
relatives of Fr. Paschal with whom he meets and strikes up a
conversation, or who ask the monks to relate greetings to him.
Many of these were in attendance at the festivities, including his five
siblings and their families: Margaret Reyes and husband, Jose, of
Vermillion; Elizabeth Brown and husband, James, from Amherst;
Lenora Given and husband, Terrence, from Burke, VA; his brother,
Richard, and youngest sister, Belinda Meier and husband, Don,
from Medina.
In 2004, with a change in administration at Assumption Parish,
Broadview Heights, administered by the Benedictines, Fr. Paschal
was asked to become associate pastor and for the past two years has
worked with Fr. Justin Dyrwal, OSB in the many functions of parish
life. Fr. Paschal comments that “my greatest joy is being with people;
it is the people who vastly help make the priesthood a great experience.”
He is currently very excited about working with the diocesan
“Vibrant Parish Life” initiative, which helps parishes to cluster resources
both within themselves and with surrounding parishes. “I have learned
a lot from the mentality of Blessed Junipero Serra,” says Fr. Paschal,
God bless you Fr. Paschal on your jubilee and may the Lord grant
you many years of continued service to the Benedictine community
and its apostolates. Ad Multos Annos!
18
Fr. Anselm Honored by Kiwanis
This past December, the Ohio District Kiwanis
Foundation honored Fr. Anselm Zupka, OSB, with
its Past International Presidents’ Award. The award
is named after the four individuals from Ohio who
have served at the pinnacle of Kiwanis service, the
office of Kiwanis International President, and is given
annually to individuals who have demonstrated a
commitment to service within the community.
Along with the award, a $500 donation was made
to the Ohio District Kiwanis Foundation to further
Kiwanis Projects in Ohio.
Fr. Anselm resurrected the Key Club at Benedictine
High School in 1998 and has served as moderator
ever since. The Club concentrates it efforts in
offering, organizing and participating in service
opportunities in the Greater Cleveland Area. In the
past, the students have volunteered in an number of
activities including the Ronald McDonald House,
St. Vincent Charity Hospital, the Buckeye Festival,
and many others. They are also currently getting
Fr. Anselm receives award from Kiwanis leadership.
involved with the Farmer’s Market at Shaker Square.
Students not only participate in these activities during the school
A note from Fr. Anselm to all alumni and supporters:
year, but also weekly in the summer months as well.
Kiwanis is a great service organization and I would encourage all our
alumni to join a Kiwanis Club in their neighborhood or where they
Fr. Anselm served as president of the Kiwanis Club of Shaker Square
work. I would be especially happy if our alumni, especially former
from October 1, 2004 through September 30, 2005. He was recently
Key Club members and their wives would consider joining a Kiwanis
elected to another term as president, effective October 1, 2006. He
Club in your area and especially the Shaker Square Kiwanis.
currently serves on the Kiwanis Board as past-president.
Meetings are held in the dining hall of Benedictine High School on
the first and third Mondays of every month at 6:30 PM. Meetings
usually last an hour and feature a speaker or program of interest to a
wide audience. Shaker Square Kiwanis not only supports and works
with the Key Club of Benedictine High School, but also the Circle K
at John Carroll University.
2005-2006 BHS Key Club
19
OBLATE CORNER
A Time of Celebration
Fr. Michael Brunovsky, OSB
When May rolls around, I always know it is going
to be a busy but celebratory month. As a teacher
in our high school, May signals the end of the
school year, awards given for accomplishments,
and commencement for the senior class. As oblate
director, this means preparation for the annual
Oblate Day of Recollection, always held on the
third Sunday in May. Both the oblates and I look
forward to this day because it is a time when
members of our three oblate chapters can come
together, enjoy the monastery and its grounds,
celebrate vespers with the monastic community,
learn something new, and share supper with each
other and the monks. For many, this is the only
contact they have with other oblates and the
monastic community.
Like the high school students, this is also an
opportunity to recognize the commitment of our
oblates on different levels of their formation. This
year we welcomed eight new oblate novices into
our formation process. These individuals have been
with us for awhile and now commit themselves to
the formation oblates undertake. They will study
the Rule and the Life of St. Benedict, learn and
practice the Lectio Divina as they meditate on the
Scriptures, and join in the daily prayers of the
oblates. This year we invested Sarah Pamula, Lee
Hart, Terry Biro, Lenora DuPay, Marcella Mauk,
Ed Kozelka, Marilyn Bizer, Michael Shreve, and
Joseph Madachik.
Abbot Clement also accepted the full oblation of
six who completed their oblate novice program
and pledged to give themselves fully to living
Benedictine spirituality in their lives: Dan
Winterich (BHS ’92), Rosemary and Bill Amor,
Hugh Ginley, Ken Hagy, and Aline Doyle. The
other oblates present renewed their oblation as
well. Together, this annual ritual does much for
both oblates and monastic community. First, we
pray for each other: monks for the oblates and
oblates for the monks. This is a great source of
mutual spiritual support through the challenges of
20
life. It also provides encouragement in the practices
of monastic spirituality, for the monks see others
who, while not living in the monastery, seriously
value and practice these important elements to
develop their spiritual lives.
On Thursday, May 25, we had another celebration,
rejoicing in the accomplishments of our graduating
junior oblates. These students of our high school
have met every week to pray, learn and discuss
elements of Benedictine spirituality and how it can
help their lives. The junior oblates and the parents
of seniors joined us for vespers, supper with the
monastic community and a presentation in the
abbey parlor. Junior oblates may become full
members of the oblate family without the regular
oblate novitiate due to their experience. I have had
a great year working especially with our graduating
seniors, Anthony Alto, Ben Drda, Colin Gregory,
Jordan Jakab, Ryan Kozelka, Pat McCarthy, and
Dan Romanski. As I said in my comments that
evening, dedicated Christian parents are instrumental in developing the spiritual foundation of
their children. The dedication of the parents of
these young men is manifest in their commitment
to such a spiritual endeavor. I pray that these
young men may continue to live the elements of
Benedictine spirituality in their lives as they go
off to college and may their association with the
Benedictine community blossom in their
continued participation.
Oblates value the lessons of monastic spirituality
in chartering the uncertain and often turbulent
waters of life. May St. Benedict and the spiritual
oasis of our monastic community assist all our
oblates in this task.
If you are interested in exploring the Oblates of
St. Benedict, please call (216) 721-5300 ext. 268.
If you are not local, I can assist you in finding an
oblate group near you nationally. Peace and all that
is good during these summer days.
Ten Inducted into Hall of Fame and Hall of Honors
A total of ten Benedictine graduates were honored at the 2006 Athletic Hall of Fame/Hall of Honors induction ceremonies on Sunday, March 19,
at the University Club.
Hall of Honors Inductees
the Tom Evert Dance Company. After ten years, they formed the
Tom and Susana Evert Dance Theatre, which today has been
renamed DANCEVERT. Evert lives with his wife and partner,
Susana, in Euclid, Ohio.
Fr. Tom Martin ’47 – Even as a child who
lived through the Depression, Fr. Tom Martin
felt the tug to help the needy. It was this deep
desire to help the underprivileged that stayed
with him throughout his whole life. Fr. Martin
attended St. Benedict School, within walking
distance of Benedictine High School. While a
student, he played football and was on the
golf team. He also was a member of the
National Honor Society. He was later
educated at St. Gregory’s Seminary in Cincinnati and St. Mary’s
Seminary in Cleveland and ordained in 1956. His last years were
spent at St. Andrew Abbey on the Benedictine High School campus.
Fr. Martin died on September 23, 2001. Immediate survivors include
siblings Dolores Lucas, Jerry ’50, George ’54 and Richard ’56.
Hall of Fame Inductees
Mike Krak ’31 – A member of
Benedictine’s first graduating class, Mike
Krak was the school's first football superstar. In 1929, Krak was junior quarterback
on Benedictine’s first football team. He
moved to running back as a senior. In
1930, Krak led Benedictine to its first
football victory and its first winning
season. He scored the first points in
Benedictine history on a touchdown run. As the captain of the 1930
team, he scored 12 touchdowns to lead the team to a 4-2 record in its
second season of football. Krak attended St. Procopius College (now
Benedictine University) in Lisle, Illinois, where he was a standout in
the backfield on the football team. As a sophomore captain of the
football squad, he led the team to win the conference championship.
In boxing, while representing St. Procopius, he won the county title
in the 147-pound division in what was considered one of the best
and largest boxing tournaments in the U.S. with more than 1,500
participants. Krak died in April 1984 in his hometown of Cohoes,
New York, near Albany.
Jack Siemen ’48 – From 1973 to 1975, he
was president of the Booster Club and
remained active in the Club for decades. About
that same time, he was a co-chairman of the
Benedictine Bingo Game. For over 25 years,
Siemen spent every single Sunday and
Wednesday evening at Benedictine working
and running the Bingo game. In the mid1970’s, Siemen and his wife, Mary Jane, were
among the founders of the Bengal Bonus
program. From 1980 to 1982, he was the president of Benedictine’s
Board of Governors. Their marriage created a wonderful contribution
to Benedictine – three sons who all attended and graduated from
BHS: John, Jr. ’71, Kenneth ’74 and Christopher ’79. Siemen is still
a fixture at many Benedictine events, and until her death in 2002, so
was his wife. Mary Jane was even a founding member of one of the
newest organizations at the school – the Benet Society in 2000.
Siemen retired in 1995 after 46 years as an advertising account
executive at the Plain Dealer. He lives in Mayfield Village, Ohio.
Steve Chernicky ’53 – The first
Benedictine football player to earn firstteam All-Ohio honors, Steve Chernicky
helped the Bengals to a 26-18 city
championship victory over rival
St. Ignatius in front of 33,689 fans at
Cleveland Municipal Stadium. As an
offensive and defensive end, he also
received All-East Senate honors and was chosen for the Cleveland
Press and the Cleveland News All-Scholastic teams. Chernicky earned
two letters each in baseball and football, played basketball and ran
track. He scored a total of nine touchdowns as a junior and a senior.
He earned a master’s degree in education from Purdue. He lives with
his wife, Barbara, who graduated from Hoban Dominican High
School, in Palatine, Illinois. They have four grandchildren and five
grown children, Sheryl, Steven, Linda, Michael, and Laura.
Tom Evert ’69 – As a senior during the 1968
football season, Evert was called by one of his
teammates as “the toughest, quickest, most
determined lineman on the team.” In the
spring of 1969, the student body voted Evert
the highest honor a senior can win by naming
him “Mr. Benedictine.” During his Benedictine
years, Evert took advantage of the creative
possibilities of the various artistic outlets
offered at the school. In addition to the
National Honor Society, he was a writer for the school newspaper,
The Bennet, sang with the Glee Club, and performed on stage with
the drama club. Tom married Susana in 1981 and shortly after their
son, Max, was born. The Everts moved to Cleveland and founded
Ray Hudiak ’56 – Ray Hudiak stood alone at the
top of Benedictine’s single-season scoring list with
90 points after his final football game as a senior.
Hudiak was chosen for the Plain Dealer AllScholastic team and earned an East Senate
selection as well as a place on the Universe Bulletin
(continued pg. 22)
21
Ten Inducted into Hall of Fame and Hall of Honors (Continued)
Pete Germano ’78 – Germano was a rare threesport star who excelled in football, basketball and
baseball. He was a Man of Benedictine for all
seasons. As a senior, he was a Special Mention
All-Ohio selection, All-District first team, and was
one of 12 area players honored by the Cleveland
Touchdown Club. Germano helped the Bengals
reach the 1978 state baseball finals. That year,
Germano was named to the Plain Dealer All-Scholastic team as a
pitcher-shortstop. In basketball, Germano remains in the school’s
Top 40 in all-time scoring with 542 points. As a senior, he was
selected to the first-team All-Independent basketball squad. Germano
played at Ohio Wesleyan University where he excelled in football and
baseball. He has a bachelor’s degree from Ohio Wesleyan and a
master’s degree from Bowling Green. He lives in The Plains, Ohio,
with his wife, Jackie, and their children, Nicole, Joey, and Michael.
All-Catholic team. As a third baseman on the 1956 baseball team,
Hudiak played a key role on the Bengals state runner-up team. After
graduation, Hudiak entered Miami (Ohio) University where he
earned two letters in football. He earned a bachelor’s degree in
biology and physical education and a master’s degree in education
from Case Western Reserve University. Later he earned a teaching
certificate from Youngstown State University. He lives in Seven Hills,
Ohio, with his wife, Marilyn. They have five grown children, Ken,
Karen, Kathy, Kristine and Kevin, and six grandchildren.
Jim Yacknow ’64 – Jim Yacknow is best
remembered for his Most Valuable Player
performance in Benedictine’s 30-16
victory over rival St. Ignatius in the 1963
Charity Game. He was a two-time
selection on the all-East Senate football
team. Yacknow earned Plain Dealer and
Cleveland Press All-Scholastic football
honors as an end. In baseball, Yacknow
excelled as a first baseman and helped the Bengals to Cleveland City
titles in 1963 and 1964. He was a Plain Dealer All-Scholastic as a
junior and a senior and batted .403 as a senior. Yacknow earned firstteam All-Ohio. He attended Notre Dame University for two years on
a football scholarship. In October 1966, Yacknow signed with the
Cleveland Indians’ Reno, Nevada, farm team of the Class A
California League. He is currently employed at the Sierra Pacific
Power Company and lives in Reno, Nevada.
Eric Mudd ’83 – Eric worked hard to become
one of the best basketball players in school
history. He is fifth on the all-time list averaging
23.9 points per game during the 1982-83
season. After his senior season, Mudd was a
Special Mention selection to the Plain Dealer
All-Scholastic team. The 1985-86 season was a
dream season for Mudd and the CSU Vikings.
CSU captured the AMCU regular season and post-season
championship and made the school’s first appearance in the NCAA
basketball tournament. He received a “medical redshirt” for the
1986-87 season after suffering a torn ligament in his right wrist.
When he returned in 1987-88, Mudd was named CSU’s Most
Outstanding Player as he guided the Vikings to a second straight
NIT appearance. Mudd graduated from CSU in 1988 with a
bachelor’s degree in history and was on the Dean’s List numerous times.
Mudd is a production supervisor with the Ford Motor Company. He
lives in Louisville, Kentucky, with his wife, Tonya, and their children,
Carlie, Kelli and Eric Jr.
Frank Malec ’74 – The 6'2", 244-pound
lineman was a first-team UPI All-Ohio
offensive tackle and second-team AP All-Ohio
defensive tackle. In addition, Malec was
named to the Plain Dealer All-Scholastic
team. The two-year starter was selected as the
Cleveland Touchdown Club Independent
MVP. In August 1974, Malec was chosen to
play in the first Cuyahoga County Lions Eye Care All-Star football
game. Malec also won three varsity letters in hockey. As a sophomore
in 1971, Malec was a member of the Bengals hockey team that won
the first Baron Cup signifying the Greater Cleveland City title. In
1972, Malec was named to the Greater Cleveland High School
Hockey League All-Star team as a defenseman. Malec earned four
varsity letters while at Northwestern University. He became a starter
on the defensive line as a freshman, and then moved to offensive line as
sophomore where he remained for the rest of his Wildcat career.
Malec received AP and UPI All-Big Ten second-team honors as
offensive guard. He also earned Academic first-team All-Big Ten
honors. Malec and his wife, Wendy, live in North Royalton, Ohio,
and have three children, Sarah, Frank ’06, and Mallory.
Inductees to the 2006 Hall of Fame/Hall of Honors
Front row (l-r): George Martin ’54, (for Fr. Tom Martin ’47), Ray Hudiak ’56, Barb
Chernicky (for husband Steve ’53). Back row (l-r): Jack Siemen ’48, Eric Mudd ’83,
Pete Germano ’78, Frank Malec ’74, Tom Evert ’69.
22
Just for Kicks
LAX at BHS
The Alumni Association Board of Directors approved a donation of
$22,000 over a number of years to start a lacrosse program at
Benedictine. Sports Illustrated called lacrosse the fastest-growing sport
in the U.S. The funding will help subsidize the start-up costs that
include equipment, uniforms, coach’s salary, and game fees.
Lacrosse is a sport made for Benedictine. It’s fast-paced and physical!
The plan is to secure a coach to organize team practices so that we
can field a competitive team in the spring of 2007.
Principal Sal Miroglotta is excited to create more opportunities for
students to enrich their experience at Benedictine.
If you can pitch in to help get things started, call Wally Mieskoski in
the Alumni Office at 216.421.2080 ext. 338. We’d appreciate any
donations of goals, balls, sticks, flags, cash, or expertise, etc.
Showing their excitement in the new Benedictine Alumni Association jerseys, the team finds
time to pose for this picture.
A proud Benedictine alumnus has sponsored a U-8 boy’s soccer team
in North Royalton. Coach (coincidentally Alumni President) Bob
Hilfer ’73, said he enjoys watching the young men in blue play hard
as they learn the game. It’s also fun to have other alumni step up to
introduce themselves and proudly announce their graduation year.
Bob admits he also finds pleasure in noticing other fathers wearing
caps (especially green) from west-side Catholic schools watching
with envy.
Scott Hilfer, son of Bob
Hilfer ’73, models one of the
Benedictine Alumni
Association game jerseys.
Appropriately, his jersey
number signifies the allegiance
to our alma mater.
Just imagine how good this uniform will look
with Benedictine written across the chest!
Benedictine Baseball Action Team Golf Outing/Scramble
Friday, July 28, 2006
Pine Ridge Country Club
Shotgun Start 12:30 pm
$95 per golfer/$380 per foursome
HOLE SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE
Contact:
Terry Heil ’84
216.314.0200
216.736.3612
[email protected]
Sign-in at 11:30 am with use of driving practice greens, lunch, dinner and prizes
23
Nobby’s Ballpark
On April 29, alumni participated in opening
ceremonies for the new baseball field on the Case
Western Reserve University that is the new home for
the Bengals. On a bright sunny Saturday afternoon,
Benedictine swept a doubleheader from Villa Angela
St. Joseph.
In addition to Nobby Lewandowski ’55, who made
the large donation to Case, other alums who played
a key role in securing the field were Terry Heil ’84,
Dave Dissauer ’84 and Jerry Grabowski ’66.
Left to right: Nobby Lewandowski, Terry Heil
and Dave Dissauer.
Pluto’s Done It Again
Continuing the
Benedictine Tradition –
The Next Generation
Terry Pluto ’73 has just written a new book, Dealing, The Cleveland
Indians’ New Ballgame (Inside the Front Office and the Process of
Rebuilding a Contender). It should be at better bookstores everywhere.
He is the author of 23 books and has won more than 50 state and
local writing awards. Pluto was nominated twice for a Pulitzer Prize.
In 2005, Pluto was deservedly inducted into the Cleveland
Journalism Hall of Fame. His book, Loose Balls, the story of wild life
of the American Basketball Association, was ranked number 13 on
Sports Illustrated ’s list of the top 100 sports books of all-time.
Growing up in Garfield Heights, Frank Malec ’74 and Dennis
Newman ’74 attended St. Therese School, and later Benedictine
High School. Although they both graduated from different
universities, their friendship remained strong and has now
continued for 45 years.
The Benedictine tradition continues through their sons. Frank
Malec and John Newman are recent grads of the Benedictine
Class of ’06. Malec, who played hockey, is a member of St.
Albert the Great Parish in North Royalton. Newman, a soccer
player, is a member of St. Francis de Sales Parish in Parma.
Election of New Officers
Len Toth ’70 was elected President of the Alumni Association at the
May 3, 2006 Alumni general meeting. Toth has been a long-time
volunteer at the school. For the past several years, he has chaired the
successful Lenten Retreat in the spring. All the best to Len.
After spending four years of high school together, these young
alumni will continue their Benedictine friendship, as both will
attend Ohio University in the fall where they will be roommates.
Athens, Ohio will never be the same.
Also elected were: Richard Salem ’90 (Vice-President), Jerry Mihalek
’66 (Treasurer), Jerry Grabowski ’66 (Deputy Treasurer), and Bob
Hilfer ’73 (Secretary). The following Members-at-Large were voted
in: Chuck St. John ’54, Dave Belin ’69, Chris Siemen ’79, Andy
Cross ’90, and Brandon Robinson ’90.
Congrats to both fathers and sons.
Phonathon
Remember to stay by your phone
October 1-8, 2006. The Annual Phonathon
will be in full swing at that time. Your help
and cooperation are greatly appreciated.
The Alumni Association thanks Bob Hilfer on his two years as
president. He is continuing his involvement with the Association as
secretary of the organization.
24
In Remembrance…
Since the last issue of the Ora, the Alumni Office has been notified of the following deceased. Please pray for their families. If we missed someone,
please contact the alumni office at 216.421-2080 ext. 342 or at [email protected].
1931
1931
1933
1938
1941
1941
1942
1944
1944
1945
1945
1945
1946
1946
1946
1946
1946
1946
1946
1947
1947
1947
1947
John Macko
Raymond Majka
Andrew Knapik
Albert Halko
Joseph Huszai
Richard Suhay
Charles Pistey
Edward Batcha
James Nousek
Steve Betuker
William Nowak
Alfred Shepka
Francis Bockhoff
Basil Giaimo
Raymond Golobic
Donald Mahoney
Frank Novak
Frank Rajar
William Warmuth
Charles Ambrose
Donald Canda
John Haynes
Edward Krupa
1947
1947
1947
1947
1948
1948
1948
1948
1948
1948
1948
1949
1949
1949
1949
1950
1950
1951
1951
1951
1951
1951
1951
Alfred Liscoe
Leonard Raimer
Chester Wych
Robert Yako
Edward Dvorak
Rudolph B. Ilenin
Rudolph Janecek
Robert Kasarcik
Richard Pawlikowski
Peter Regrut
Emil Zlaket
Edward Borsuk
Thomas Donovan
Ernest Gongos
William Leiden
Robert Mallinak
Donald Noe
Daniel Forlani
James Franek
Frank Houdek
Gerald Kvet
Robert Lanese
John Lazor
1951
1951
1951
1951
1951
1951
1952
1952
1952
1952
1952
1954
1954
1955
1955
1955
1955
1955
1955
1955
1956
1956
1956
Robert Rossoll
Paul Stefanov
Richard Tomchak
Frank Toncar
Steve Turoczy
Raymond Vontorcik
P. Adams
Robert Bea
David Heiss
Charles Kelly
Donald J. Tomec
Domenic Cirino
David Wohlfeil
Donald Czech
Richard Gruber
Benedict Lechowicz
Gerald Simcak
Richard Uhlik
Paul Yorko
Walter Zydavicius
Clarence Gruszczynski
Chester Malasky
Eugene Wojciechowski
1957
1957
1958
1958
1958
1960
1960
1963
1965
1965
1967
1967
1967
1970
1972
1974
1975
1980
1984
1988
2002
Dennis Dolney
Raymond Jablonski
Ronald Papay
Kenneth Patrick
Michael Poplar
Robert Bockhoff
Aloysius Stefanek
Michael Rini
Alexander Fejes
Kenneth Schneider
Edward Dzwonkowski
Frank Workosky
Lawrence Zelina
Mark Haburay
David Martin
Joseph Palasics
Richard Kikta
Thomas Fasolo
Christopher Kovach
Sean Shoda
Michael Corea
Alumni Office Welcomes Additions
The Benedictine Alumni Office has been bolstered by two recent additions
Wally Mieskoski ’71 has been named as the new Alumni Moderator.
He began his duties on May 15, 2006. Mieskoski has been active in
a variety of volunteer positions since 1977 when he became the sports
information director. Since the Alumni Association was reorganized
in the mid-1990s, he has served on the board of the organization. He
was Alumni president from 200-2002. Most recently, he co-chaired
the highly successful 2006 Athletic Hall of Fame and Hall of Honors
Induction Ceremonies.
three years as Independent Consultant for various companies and
nonprofits working on fundraising events. Previously for 11 years,
she was Executive Director of Cleveland Grand Prix Charities, the
nonprofit charitable arm of the Grand Prix of Cleveland. Born and
raised in Cleveland, Lori and her husband, Mike, enjoy soccer and
boating.
The Alumni Office facilitates and coordinates the activities of the
Benedictine Alumni Association to increase the volunteer and financial
support of Benedictine. The Office also provides communications
between graduates and the high school and provides support for class
reunions and other alumni events.
Lori Conley is the new Alumni Coordinator. Working more than 15
years in event management, Conley brings a wide range of experience
to her new position. Prior to joining Benedictine, she spent the last
25
Class Notes
CLASS OF 1937
Visit the USSHouston.org Web site and read
the wonderful write up about John B.
Stefanek. It talks about his time in the Navy,
how he was a prisoner of war, his family. He
is now laid to rest at Arlington National
Cemetery.
CLASS OF 1948
Congratulations to MaryAnn and Fred
Kabat, who celebrated their 47th wedding
anniversary on January 24th.…Rudy
Horvath and wife, Mary Lou, left on an
Alaskan cruise at the end of May to celebrate
their 50th wedding anniversary, which doesn’t
happen until September 15th. Rudy adds in
his note: “We’ll definitely have Benedictine
in mind as we travel, because without that
very good education foundation, I probably
would not be where I am today. God bless.”
CLASS OF 1950
Joseph Kocab can now be heard on WHK
Radio, 1220AM, from 3 – 5 pm.
CLASS OF 1954
The mother of Auxiliary Bishop Roger W.
Gries OSB, Dorothy Gries, died on May 25
at the Little Sisters of the Poor in
Warrensville Heights. She was 92. Many
alums remember her as the Main Office
secretary from 1964 until she retired in 1978.
Bishop Roger with his mother, Dorothy.
CLASS OF 1959
John D’Angelo retired from Painesville
Harvey High School after 30 years of teaching
and 27 years as head basketball coach. His
wife, Penny, teaches English at Auburn
Career Center and their son, Scott, works for
American Greetings. Daughter Denise, is a
stay-at-home mom with her daughter,
Marleigh, and daughter Lisa, is a nurse at
Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital and
has two daughters of her own.
electrician/lineman. He has a son in
college and two daughters, one a senior and
one in eighth grade—all in Catholic/private
schools. Looking forward to retiring – someday!
CLASS OF 1962
Lawrence Kandrach reports that his travel
portfolio has expanded notably during the
past six months. During October, he traveled
to his 46th state, Nevada. He also ventured to
his third, fourth, and fifth continents, adding
Europe (United Kingdom and Ireland) in
August and South America (Argentina) and
Antarctica during January 2006. In addition,
he experienced another first—one of his
photographs was published in the Best of
Photography Annual 2005.
CLASS OF 1973
Author and sports columnist Terry Pluto was
inducted into the Cleveland Journalism Hall
of Fame on October 27, 2005. He has been
named Ohio Sportswriter of the Year eight
times for his writing in the Akron Beacon
Journal. His books include The Curse of Rocky
Colavito and Loose Balls.
CLASS OF 1967
Frank Bossu will join the Benedictine
faculty in the fall as the school’s new chemistry teacher. He has more than 30 years of
experience working in industry. His father,
Augie Bossu, long-time football and baseball
coach, and teacher at Benedictine, celebrated
his 90th birthday on May 5.
CLASS OF 1968
Kenneth Golubski resides in Grafton with
his wife, Laurie. Ken joined the Cleveland
Police Department shortly after being
discharged from the Navy in 1972. He
retired as a sergeant in 1998. He learned
computer programming and has been working
as a programmer since.
CLASS OF 1969
In the February 2006 issue of Cleveland
Magazine, Tom Evert and his wife, Susana
were featured in an article entitled,
“Adaptation and Adoration.” The article
details their meeting through dance and how
today, their dance company, DANCEVERT,
is entering what they predict will be their
“third era.”…Dave Belin is entering his 20th
year with Niagara LaSalle Steel in regional
sales for the Northeast portion of the United
States. He and wife, Kathy, are living in
Aurora, Ohio.
CLASS OF 1972
If you are in need of dependable wheelchair
transportation, check out Gerald Easter’s
new company, Easter’s Home Team
Transportation, (216) 991-4345…Neil Boyle
has been married for 26 years and has worked
for the City of Cleveland for 33 years as an
26
CLASS OF 1974
In September of 2005, Mark Tarase, his wife,
Millie, and daughters, Katherine and
Hannah, relocated to Charlotte, North
Carolina, after Mark accepted a position at
Goodrich’s corporate headquarters.…In his
ninth year at Chardon High School, Coach
Tim Armelli had a wrestler make it to the
state tournament. His wife, Terri, is in her
tenth year as a computer teacher at All Saints.
They have two sons, Brian a sophomore at
Kent State and Dan a sixth grader at All
Saints. They visited Denver on their vacation
last year and almost made it to the top of
Pike’s Peak.…Clifton E. Mason was recently
promoted to vice president of product
marketing for ADP Dealer Services
headquartered in Hoffman Estates, Illinois.
Clif and family make their home in Aurora,
Illinois.…Diebold Inc. of Green, Ohio
recently named Kevin Krakora as chief
financial officer after serving in that role on
an interim basis since August. Kevin also had
been vice president, a title he retains, and
corporate controller.
CLASS OF 1976
Tim Ford has completed his term as president
of the Kentucky Podiatric Association, but
continues to administer the Surgical
Residency Program at the University of
Louisville and serves on the National
Podiatric Board evaluating and certifying
other residency programs around the country.
His wife, Concessa, has a construction
company that is developing a high-end housing
project in Prospect, Kentucky.
CLASS OF 1980
Kevin G. Riley was named as the new
publisher of the Springfield News-Sun in
December 2005. Kevin started his journalism
career at the Dayton Daily News while a
University of Dayton senior in 1983 and most
recently served as general manager of
DaytonDailyNews.com, the newspaper’s Web
site. The article stated that Kevin credits a
former teacher at Benedictine High School
with whom he maintains contact for sparking
his interest in journalism. He called Mark
Francioli ’71 one of those teachers who
touches your life, makes you believe you have
some ability and helps nurture it.
CLASS OF 1981
Dr. George Askew was recently awarded an
International Ashoka Fellowship. Dr. Askew
graduated from Harvard University in 1985
and received his master’s degree from Case. In
2003, he founded Docs for Tots, an agency
dedicated to engaging doctors in child advocacy.
CLASS OF 1985
Christy Cingel, daughter of graduate J.
Patrick Cingel, appeared on Fox 8’s Morning
Show, “Kickin’ It With Kenny” on February 2,
2006. Christy won the prestigious honor of
International Free Throw Champion in her
10-year-old age group last March after
competing against 199,000 other players from
around the world.…Matthew Figler, his wife,
Susan, and four children reside in Stow, Ohio.
Matthew is continuing to remodel and update
his 1929 home.
CLASS OF 1986
Bill Dailey currently works for Netco
Government Services as a Network Engineer.
He resides in Chesapeake, Virginia, with his
wife, Sue, and her son, Keith. Bill competes in
several levels of auto racing as a hobby.
Recently he was crowned the 2005 MiniCup
Champion at Langley Speedway. He also
finished third in the Pro Wing Champ Series.
You can see his racing results at
www.arenaracingusa.com on his website,
www.teamarusa.com.…Nick Harris resides in
Weston, Wisconsin and has been recently
promoted to distribution manager for the
printing and writing division of Wausau
Paper. He and his wife, Catalina, have two
children, Isabella, 4 and Nicholas, 7 months.
CLASS OF 1988 and 1989
Look for the Russo brothers’, Anthony ’88
and Joe ’89, new $60 million Universal
Studios movie, You, Me and Dupree to open
this summer in theaters everywhere. The
brothers directed the movie, which stars
Michael Douglas, Kate Hudson, Matt Dillon
and Owen Wilson.
CLASS OF 1990
Last April, Frank Krupka watched five trucks
come in from Dayton, Ohio, with his family’s
house on board. The house sections were lifted
off the truck by a huge crane and lowered onto
the foundation in North Ridgeville. Frank is
still at Avon Lake Animal Clinic and his wife
has taken a year off from teaching to keep up
with their two boys, Frankie and Christopher.
By the printing of this, the third bundle
should have arrived.…Leo Dunlevey and his
wife purchased an existing vending machine
business in September 2005. Currently they
are looking to expand to the east side. If they
can assist your business needs, please call
216-402-9383.
CLASS OF 1994
Tom Funk and his wife, Tiffany, are enjoying
time with their three children and dog,
Montana. Samantha, who is 8 years old, is in
second grade and very busy with Girl Scouts.
Sidney, now 2, loves to read her books and
Tommy, now 1, is walking and keeping up
with Sidney. Tom (T.J.) is still doing remodeling,
lawn care and snow plowing. This past year he
has been working on his house. Tiffany is still
working as an office manager at a local car
dealership.
CLASS OF 1997
In October of 2005, Tim Cheatwood rejoined
the Canadian Football League. Last season,
Tim led the CFL in sacks (14).…In October
of 2005, Sgt. Christopher Morgan, of
Bedford Heights, rocked his third child in his
arms. Courtney was born July 23 while he was
in Iraq.
CLASS OF 1998
Jeff Belin was named “Manager of the Year” at
the Cincinnati-Anderson Township Macy’s
Department Store for 2005. He is a senior
level Group Sales Manager.
CLASS OF 1999
Remember the hoopla surrounding the birthday
bash for Cleveland Cavaliers’ superstar,
LeBron James? He celebrated in majestic
style, with a party for more than 1,000 guests
at the House of Blues. The producer of this
extravaganza was Richard Paul. He is close to
LeBron as well as a member of Four
Horseman Marketing Company that oversees
the player’s management, development and
promotion.
27
CLASS OF 2001
Tom Belin will be finishing up his last semester
at Kent State University, pursuing a degree in
marketing.
CLASS OF 2002
T.J. Powell got married on March 6, 2004
and is the proud father of daughter, Dyonna.
T.J. and his wife just bought a house in
Cleveland and T.J. is currently enrolled in the
basic Police Academy.…Michael Corea, died
June 6, 2006, as a result of a motorcycle accident near Columbus, Ohio. Corea was born
with a liver disorder and later received a transplant at age 13. That’s when he told his family
that he wanted to be an organ donor. Shortly
after his death, his heart, lungs and tissue were
removed for donation. Corea was set to
graduate on Sunday, June 11, from Ohio State
University. Mrs. Corea said that she was grateful
when an OSU official delivered her son’s
diploma to the hospital on Tuesday—the day
he died.…Jonathan Royer graduated from
Officer Candidate School, Seneca Battalion,
U.S. Army ROTC. Jonathan was selected for
commissioning with an Air contract and will
return to Quantico in September for The
Basic School. Upon graduation from The
Basic School, he will continue his training at
the Naval Air Station in Pensacola for flight
school.…Brian Heise graduated with
Distinction from Ohio Northern University
with a Bachelor of Science in Business
Administration.
CLASS OF 2004
At Youngstown State University, Richard
Black, Jr. is currently involved in the judicial
board on campus. He is also very active in
several organizations and recently got accepted
into the Sigma Alpha Lambda Society.…Pfc
Robert Nishnic visited Benedictine sharing
his achievements in the United States Marine
Corps. He completed Recruit Training at
Parris Island, South Carolina, earning a
Certificate of Commendation recognizing “his
sustained superior performance and dedication
to excellence…” making him the Honor
Graduate for PLT 3020 Company K. He also
earned the Navy League of the United States
Outstanding Recruit Award. Presently, he is in
Presidential Support Training at Quantico,
VA. Congratulations and God be with you.
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