Men of - Prep

Issue No. 1
SPRING 2011
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
Men of
Vision
Table of
Contents
Cathedral Preparatory School
225 West Ninth Street
Erie, PA 16501
(814) 453-7737
www.cathedral-prep.com
Advancement News
1 Own/Operate a Business-Prospective
Prep Students Need Your Help
2 Cover Story “Men of Vision in Action”
ADMINISTRATION
Bishop of Erie
Most Rev. Donald W. Trautman, S.T.D., S.S.L.
President
Rev. Scott W. Jabo, M.Div., S.T.B.
Principal
Sr. Claudia Dombrowski, SSJ
Assistant Principal
Trevor Murnock ’98
Director of Finance
Dawn Slokan
Director of Advancement
Christopher J. Hagerty ’75
Director of Athletics
Bill Flanagan ’87
Director of Admissions
Timothy Dougherty ’98
Board Chair
Jerome Wegley
ADvANceMeNT OffIce TeAM
Director of Advancement
Christopher J. Hagerty ’75
chagerty@cathedral-prep.com
Director of Admissions
Timothy Dougherty ’98
tdougherty@cathedral-prep.com
Director of Communications and Annual Fund
Christine R. Eddy
ceddy@cathedral-prep.com
Director of Special Events
Kathy Grisier
Kgrisier@cathedral-prep.com
Director of Constituent Relations
Nancy Bird
nbird@cathedral-prep.com
Advancement Services Manager
Terri Hess
thess@cathedral-prep.com
© 2011 Copyright of Cathedral Preparatory School.
All rights reserved.
Alumni
3 Prep Grad is Lead Investigator in
Nationally Known Pizza Bomber Case
4 The Gartners…A Prep/Villa Dynamic
Duo
7 Four of Five Honorees at Gannon
University’s Alumni Dinner Affiliated
with Prep
8 101-Year-Old Harry Hahn Receives an
Honorary Prep Diploma
9 Weschler Family & Friends Honor
Unsung WWII Hero Lt. Charles John
Weschler ’27
10 Class of ’61 to Celebrate Fiftieth
11 Reunion Weekend 2011
12 The President to Visit the Capital!
12 Class Notes
15 Obituaries
community
17 Judge Dan Brabender ’70 & Wrestling
Coach Mike Hahesy Knock Out
Homelessness
17 Come One…Come All – Prep is on
Facebook!
Administration, faculty & Staff
18 The Legacy of Mr. K ’58
19 Up Close & Personal – Chet Moffett
20 Then & Now – Mike Mischler ’87
21 Teacher Appreciation Dinner
21 News & Notes
Special events
22 Legacy Gala
25 The Fourth Annual Mother Son Brunch
– A Success
26 Harvest Gala 2010 Draws the Largest
Crowd Ever!
27 Rambler Golf Classic Swings Into its
22nd Year
MvP
28 Wuthering Heights
29 Pippin
29 News
30 Lord of the Flies Cast Meets OLP’s
Cast
30 Curtains
Students
31 Beard Week – A Hairy Situation
31 Prep at Buffalo Wild Wings Benefits
Shriners Hospital
31 Peter’s Presents Toy Drive
32 Over 1,800 Pounds of Food Collected
for Food Bank
32 Student Government Organizes
Successful Needy Item Drive
32 Prep & Villa Students March for Life
33 Seniors Qualify for Appointment to
the U.S. Air Force Academy
34 Packages for Troops
34 Catholic Schools Week 2011
35 Prep Students Trade Books for a Day
to Help Community
36 Students of Spirit, Vision and
Courage
36 News & Notes
Athletics
37 Podufal ’11 Headed to Georgetown
University on Golf Scholarship
37 Prep Product Honored by Big Ten
37 Former Rambler Polo Players Reunite
at College Tournament
38 Cathedral Prep’s New Hockey Limo
Bus
38 Ramblers Win at Golf Again
39 Blazek to Play at Gannon
39 Ramblers Back Atop D-10 in Hoops
39 Football Run Gets Ramblers One Play
from State Championship
40 Prep Baseball to Send Top Player To
Pitt
40 Runner to Continue His Career in
College
40 Signing Day Prosperous for Prep
41 Buzas Names to ESPN Academic AllDistrict 2 First Team
News & Notes
41 Rambler Retail
41 Bragging Writes
42 Where in the World?
44 Where’s Your Prep Spirit?
44 Mark Your Calendar
45 In Case You Were Wondering…
Editor In Chief
Fr. Scott W. Jabo
Managing Editor
Christopher J. Hagerty ‘75
Editor
Christine R. Eddy
Contributing Editor
Paul DeSante ’51
Contributing Writers
Nancy Bird, Director of Constituent Relations
Tony DelRio, SADD Moderator
Sr. Mary Drexler, SSJ
Chris Fessler ’11
Bill Flanagan ’87, Director of Athletics
Matthew Grisier ’12
Terri Hess, Advancement Services Manager
Fr. Scott Jabo, President
Lt Col. Brian McGrain
Mike Mischler ’87, Director of Special Projects
Jim Sertz ’61
Joe Viola ’95
The Cathedral Prep Magazine is published in the Fall & Spring
by Cathedral Prepartory School, 225 West 9th Street, Erie, PA
16501 through the Advancement Office to keep Prep’s alumni,
parents and friends informed and updated about the activities
and achievements happening at Cathedral Prep. Address all
correspondence to Christine Eddy, 225 West 9th Street, Erie,
PA 16501.
Issue No. 1
SPRING 2011
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
Advancement News
Own/Operate a Business?
Prospective Prep Students Need Your Help
D
oes your company or the company
where you work pay taxes to the
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania?
If so, there is a good chance that you
can help to change a young man’s
life by giving him the opportunity to
attend Cathedral Prep through the PA
Educational Improvement Tax Credit
Program.
How does it work? Qualifying
businesses that make contributions
to private schools like Cathedral Prep
are awarded tax credits equal to up
to 90% of the contributed value.
Entities eligible for EITC are businesses
authorized to do business in the
Commonwealth of PA that are subject
to the following taxes: Corporate Net
Income Tax, Capital Stock Franchise
Tax, Bank and Trust Company Shares
Tax, Title Insurance Companies
Shares Tax, Insurance Premiums Tax,
or Mutual Thrift Institutions Tax.
Businesses may elect to pass through
tax credits to the Personal Income
Tax of S Corporation Shareholders,
or partners in a general or limited
partnership.
Your business contribution goes strictly
towards financial aid for qualified
applicants. Since the inception of the
program, hundreds of Prep students
have benefitted from this very valuable
program. Please consider helping to
make a young man’s dream to attend
Cathedral Prep a reality by signing up
your business for the PA Educational
Improvement Tax Credit Program.
For more information, please contact
Mr. Michael Mischler at mmischler@
cathedral-prep.com or 814-453-7737
ext. 2290.
Men of
Vision
About the Cover
The students on the front cover of this magazine
are a fine example of what Cathedral Prep does on
a daily basis and has done since 1921…develop
men of vision, in spirit, mind, and body. Whether it
is helping out at an event or raising money for the
community, Cathedral Prep continues to provide
a challenging Catholic education that produces
effective leaders who, beyond the walls of Prep,
flourish in their careers and communities.
Pictured are: Senior student ambassadors at
Legacy Gala, Eddie Theiss, Nik Zaphiris, Xavier
Augustyniak and Mate Jurkovic.
Make a Difference!
L
ooking to make a big
difference in a student’s
life in a short period of time?
Cathedral Prep has made it
easy for you to help out.
With one click you can change
the life of a student in less
than a minute. Support the
Fund for Cathedral Prep at
www.cathedral-prep.com.
Just click on the orange donate
online button.
SPRING 2011
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
1
Cover
Story
By Fr. Scott Jabo, President
“Men of Vision”
in Action
T
“Vision without
action is a
daydream.
Action without
vision is a
nightmare.”
Japanese proverb
2 SPRING 2011
here is a Japanese proverb that goes something like this: “Vision without action
is a daydream. Action without vision is a nightmare.” Strong leaders and those
who accomplish the most in their lives understand and appreciate the importance of
linking and activating both vision and action together. Having one but not the other
is guaranteed to result in stagnation, recklessness, disappointment, and the like.
Since its inception, the mission of Cathedral Prep has been to develop “Men of Vision”
– leaders who not only come up with great ideas or good intentions, but who are
also willing and able to act on them effectively and make their visions and dreams
a reality. However, it is just as important to point out that the development of these
Men of Vision takes place within a framework that promotes visions and actions that
are moral, faith-filled, compassionate and Christ-like. Thus, Cathedral Prep has the
important responsibility of ensuring that this formation process is deeply rooted in
the principles of our Catholic faith. We as a school strive to provide opportunities
for our young men to see things through the lens of Christian faith and morals. The
action of these young men likewise must always be motivated, inspired and at times
tempered by the principles of our faith. It could be argued that Adolph Hitler had
linked his vision with action, but his vision and action obviously were not based
in healthy moral principles or values. The distorted lens of his vision led millions
of people to death, destruction and war. That is not the Man of Vision we form at
Cathedral Prep.
The alumni and others highlighted in this issue of The Cathedral Prep Magazine are
fine reflections of the kind of vision and action we continue to instill in our students.
Whether it was tirelessly working to solve the Pizza Bomber Case, or helping the
homeless, or organizing a fundraiser to help a classmate, each person had a clear
vision of what needed to be done and, in so doing, inspired others to share their
vision and take effective action. That is what strong and effective leaders do. That
is what our Men of Prep are trained and formed to do. Even as I write this article,
one of our seniors has just come forward on his own to propose a fundraiser to help
the people of Japan who continue to suffer the aftermath and devastation of an
earthquake, tsunami and potential nuclear meltdown. Why did he want to do this?
It is because he saw a need and now wants to take action. That is a Man of Vision.
That is a leader. That is a Man of Prep.
As I close, perhaps the words
of George Bernard Shaw are
appropriate in highlighting
the vision of a Man of Prep:
“Some men see things the
way they are and ask, “Why?”
I dream things that never
were, and ask ‘Why not?’”
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
Prep Grad is Lead Investigator in
Nationally Known Pizza Bomber Case
By Christine Eddy
“You have so much potential. You can do whatever you want.
Don’t ever let anyone tell you that you can’t. Prep graduates
are out there doing good things, and I ask you to carry
on this tradition.”
Jerry clark ’78
T
here are Prep grads all over the world
with amazing accomplishments—
Harry Markopolos ’74, nailed Wall
Street money manager, Bernie Madoff;
Tom Ridge ’63, our 43rd Governor
and former United States Secretary
for Homeland Security; and a litany of
others. Some grads are doctors, some
attorneys, some police officers. Others
are musicians, CPAs, etc. No matter
what profession our graduates have
chosen, they are all over the world doing
tremendous things, and Jerry Clark ’78
is one of them. Clark was the FBI lead
investigator in the nationally known
“Pizza Bomber” case. He spoke at Quarter
Sessions in November. His message
was clear and concise. “As a Prep student,
you have the ability to do whatever you
want.”
Clark said, “It’s truly amazing to think of
the alums who have walked these halls.”
He told the students, “You have so much
potential. You can do whatever you
want. Don’t ever let anyone tell you that
you can’t. Prep graduates are out there
doing good things, and I ask you to carry
on this tradition.”
Students were riveted to their seats
when Clark started speaking. You could
have heard a pin drop. FBI Special Agent
Clark has a B.A. in Psychology and a
Master’s in Forensic Psychology. He
worked 5 years for the DEA and 15 years
with the FBI.
waiting for the bomb squad to arrive, the
bomb exploded killing Wells. Clark was
30 feet away from Wells and watched the
whole thing unfold.
The timing of Clark’s appearance at
Prep was impeccable. Just prior to his
appearance, Marjorie Diehl-Armstrong
was found guilty on all charges involving
a bizarre plot in which pizza delivery
driver Brian Wells was forced to rob a
bank wearing a metal bomb collar that
exploded shortly after the heist, killing
him. Diehl-Armstrong was sentenced on
February 28 to life in prison plus 30 years
for her role in the bank robbery.
Following Clark’s appearance, I had the
opportunity to speak with him. He said,
“Speaking at Quarter Sessions was one
of the most satisfying days that I have
had in a long time. It was fantastic.”
He was thrilled to be able to share his
experience with the Ramblers. “I credit
Cathedral Prep for helping to develop my
focus and spirituality and for instilling in
me a strong work ethic and drive to be
successful in all aspects of life.”
Clark gave a summary of what
happened on the day the Brian Wells
died. On September 28, 2003, Brian
Wells walked into the PNC Bank on
upper Peach Street in Erie with a collar
attached to his neck. He carried a
handmade cane gun. He asked for funds
from the bank which were provided, and
he was then arrested. While police were
Clark admits that the investigation was
a long road which was full of twists and
turns. The case had a seven-year run.
Clark plans to finish his dissertation and
complete his doctorate in Public Service
Leadership which he plans to utilize in his
current position as well as in his post-FBI
endeavors.
He enjoys spending time with his wife
Danielle, and two children, Michael and
Isabelle. He also enjoys running, playing
basketball and golf.
“It’s truly amazing to think of the
Clark is thrilled that his son Michael will
be entering Cathedral Prep in the fall of
alums who have walked these halls.” 2011 as a member of the class of 2015.
SPRING 2011
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
3
The Gartners…
A Prep/Villa Dynamic Duo
W
hen it comes to Villa and Prep grads, there is
something magnetic that draws them together.
Just check out the Dynamic Duo list on the next page.
The proof is in the pudding. We often wonder how
Prep and Villa Dynamic Duos come together. In the case
of the Gartners, a Villa and Prep grad were completely
behind it. Jim Gartner ’92 met Bridget Palas Gartner ’99
through Bridget’s sister, Vicki Palas ’94. Vicki was dating
Jim’s high school friend, Eric Simora
’92. The couple met when Bridget
was home from pharmacy school over
Christmas break. Vicki invited Bridget
to go out with her and Eric and some of
his friends (including Jim). The couple
were friends for almost a year before
they started dating.
Bridget knew there was something very
special about their relationship. “The
three years we dated before getting
married, we were living in different
cities. We looked forward to holidays
and weekends, when we could spend time together, and
dreaded parting to return back to our respective places.
We knew it was true love that kept our long-distance
relationship going strong and looked forward to a time
in our lives when we could be together every day.”
Jim proposed to Bridget when she was living in
Johnstown, PA, while she was doing her pharmacy
practice residency. Jim would occasionally go down to
visit on weekends, too. After living there for a couple
months, Jim brought down a bottle of champagne and
got down on one knee in Bridget’s living room with an
engagement ring and asked her to marry him. They
were married on December 30, 2006, at St. Peter
Cathedral.
Not surprisingly, the bridal party consisted of several
Victors and Ramblers. Bridesmaids were: Vicki Palas
Simora ’94, Sarah Klinge Menz ’99, Emily Hemmis
Emmerich ’99 and Melissa Gartner ’95. Groomsmen
were: David Palas ’97, Eric Simora ’92, Tony Palombizio
’92, Matthew Roth ’95. Even Bridget’s mom and dad
4 SPRING 2011
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
Jim Gartner ’92 and
Bridget Palas Gartner ’99.
(Margaret Bertges Palas ’72 and David Palas ’70) are an
exemplary example of another “Dynamic Duo”.
Like any marriage, the couple has overcome many
hardships. Their son Nathan passed away in October
2009 at the age of 4 months from SIDS. In his memory,
the couple has set up a scholarship fund for him. The
Gartners are supporters of both schools. “We are so
grateful for what our Prep and Villa educations have
done for us, that we want make it possible for future
generations to have the same opportunity. We feel
donations are an integral part of what keeps these
schools going. We are happy that we can help with
our personal contributions, as well as those from
Weber Electric Supply and all of the contributions to
the Nathan James Gartner Scholarship fund.”
The Gartners feel very strongly about Catholic
education. “Should we be blessed with any more
children, we would strongly encourage them to attend
Prep or Villa. We both attended Catholic grade schools,
high schools and colleges and feel that a Catholic
education has many advantages. A challenging curriculum, caring teachers and a faith-based learning
environment are among the top reasons our children
would attend Prep or Villa.”
The Gartners said that their high school education
has influenced their lives tremendously. “Attending
Prep and Villa not only prepared us to complete our
challenging degrees in college and become successful
in our careers, but also provided us with the basics of
how to build a strong relationship with God and each
other.”
Bridget is a consultant pharmacist for PharMerica,
while Jim is the vice president of Weber Electric
Supply. He started there when he was 16, but made it
his career after college graduation in 1997.
In their spare time, the couple enjoys cooking,
traveling, and spending time with their families and
friends and their three weimaraners.
Are you married to a Villa Victor?
If so, please email Advancement Services Manager Terri Hess at thess@cathedral-prep.com with your
spouse’s name, class year and wedding date. We know there are a lot of Prep and Villa couples out there,
but exactly how many are there? Inquiring minds would like to know! We would like to tag you as a
Prep-Villa Dynamic Duo in our database, so be sure to ring in.
Prep Graduate
Mr. Paul Adams ‘86
Mr. George Albertson ‘53
Mr. Thomas Arrowsmith ‘59
Mr. Eric Azzato ‘00
Mr. Frederick Bartnicki ‘73
Mr. John Bauman ‘75
Mr. Stephen Bebko ‘59
Mr. Andrew Becker ‘75
Mr. Daniel Bensur ‘79
Mr. Raymond Berchtold ‘65
Mr. Nicholas Bernatowicz ‘99
Mr. Edwin Bindseil ‘48
Mr. Frederick Bird ‘83
Dr. John F. Biter ‘56
Mr. Joseph Bizjak ‘80
Mr. John Bloomstine ‘78
Mr. William Brighton ‘53
Mr. Edward Brown ‘55
Mr. Austin Brugger ‘96
Mr. Peter Buczynski ‘83
Mr. Charles Buseck ‘98
Mr. Brian Candela ‘78
Dr. Willis Cardot ‘71
Mr. Michael Carmosino ‘92
Mr. Bruce Casale ‘64
Mr. Mark Casey ‘72
Mr. Scott Chludzinski ‘79
Mr. James Constable ‘89
Dr. Michael Cooney ‘82
Mr. Frank Corsale ‘87
Mr. Christopher Cortes ‘97
Mr. Ronald Costello ‘57
Mr. Justin Crilley ‘86
Mr. Jay Crilley ‘87
Mr. Raymond Custer ‘60
Mr. Brian Dalton ‘84
Mr. Leroy Dana ‘57
Mr. Douglas Danowski ‘73
Mr. John Decker ‘54
Mr. Michael Deniziak ‘76
Mr. Gerald Dill ‘81
Dr. Michael DiMonaco ‘60
Mr. Peter Dion ‘70
Mr. David DiPlacido ‘79
Mr. Phillip Dougherty ‘65
Mr. Matthew Drabant ‘98
Mr. George Drushel ‘52
Mr. Michael Dugan ‘82
Mr. Kevin Earley ‘69
villa Graduate
Mrs. Lorie Cubetus Adams ‘86
Mrs. Molly Shaughnessy Albertson ‘53
Mrs. Linda DeSantis Arrowsmith ‘59
Mrs. Natalie Casale Azzato ‘00
Mrs. Mary Jo Schroeck Bartnicki ‘73
Mrs. Carolyn Fischer Bauman ‘76
Mrs. Dolores Leone Bebko ‘60
Mrs. Mary Beth Uht Becker ‘75
Mrs. Patricia Minichelli Bensur ‘78
Mrs. Sandra Przybyszewski Berchtold ‘66
Mrs. Michelle Schaefer Bernatowicz ‘99
Mrs. Dolores Heckman Bindseil ‘49
Mrs. Nancy Neumaier Bird ‘84
Mrs. Linda Phillips Biter ‘57
Mrs. Diane Strobel-Bizjak ‘84
Mrs. Colleen Gallagher Bloomstine ‘81
Mrs. Allene Shipley Brighton ‘55
Mrs. Bernadine Waldinger Brown ‘57
Mrs. Jill Steiner Brugger ‘97
Mrs. Stacy Kreger Buczynski ‘83
Mrs. Colleen Diefenbach Buseck ‘97
Mrs. Antoinette Carlotti Candela ‘78
Mrs. Mary Carlson Cardot ‘71
Mrs. Melanie Brown Carmosino ‘00
Mrs. Lucy Roach Casale ‘71
Mrs. Melody Bihler Casey ‘74
Mrs. Christine Kwitowski Chludzinski ‘78
Mrs. Debbie Miller Constable ‘89
Mrs. Julia Starr Cooney ‘82
Mrs. Lisa Popovich Corsale ‘87
Mrs. Rose Szymanowski Cortes ‘97
Mrs. Carol Scolio Costello ‘57
Mrs. Michele Bross Crilley ‘86
Mrs. Carrie Bross Crilley ‘87
Mrs. Irene Sulkowski Custer ‘61
Mrs. Diana Dubik Dalton ‘84
Mrs. Mary Ann Stangler Dana ‘56
Mrs. Agnes Rogers Danowski ‘74
Mrs. Charlotte Froess Decker ‘56
Mrs. Marcia Bross Deniziak ‘81
Mrs. Susan Fessler Dill ‘81
Mrs. Patricia Anderson DiMonaco ‘60
Mrs. Joyce Gutting Dion ‘70
Mrs. Caroline Rutkowski DiPlacido ‘82
Mrs. Gail Lucas Dougherty ‘67
Mrs. Sarah Kistler Drabant ‘97
Mrs. Patricia McQuillen Drushel ‘52
Mrs. Sharon Messmer Dugan ‘82
Mrs. Mary Kay Talarico Earley ‘70
Prep Graduate
Mr. Stephen Easly ‘79
Mr. Jeffrey Eckard ‘85
Mr. J. Eric Ehrman ‘85
Mr. John Ehrman ‘58
Mr. Christopher Ehrman ‘81
Mr. Charles Eisert ‘36
Mr. David Eiswerth ‘56
Mr. Eric Enzbrenner ‘85
Mr. Robert Esser ‘59
Mr. Scott Esser ‘85
Dr. Joseph R. Farrell ‘59
Mr. Mark Fatica ‘79
Mr. James Faulkner ‘86
Mr. Corey Ferraro ‘97
Atty. Donald Fessler ‘80
Atty. John Fessler ‘78
Mr. Michael Filutze ‘64
Mr. Michael Fox ‘77
Mr. Richard Gardner ‘50
Mr. James Gartner ‘92
Mr. Timothy Geary ‘82
Mr. James Gehrlein ‘63
Mr. William Gehrlein ‘70
Mr. Dana Glance ‘81
Mr. Robert Glance ‘59
Mr. Kenneth Goetz ‘66
Mr. James Griffin ‘76
Mr. Christopher Grychowski ‘88
Mr. Robert Haibach ‘51
Mr. Joseph Halder ‘55
Mr. Vincent Halupczynski ‘79
Mr. John Hamm ‘58
Mr. Gary Harding ‘58
Mr. Kevin Hedderman ‘93
Mr. James Heid ‘59
Dr. Andrew Heise ‘80
Mr. John Hilbert ‘82
Mr. Shantel Hilliard ‘92
Mr. Andrew Hoffman ‘90
Mr. Thomas Hoffman ‘84
Mr. Timothy Holland ‘75
Mr. Brian Jackman ‘59
Mr. Jeffrey Jones ‘88
Mr. Roderic Karpen ‘56
Mr. Thomas Kaveney ‘79
Dr. Brian Kearney ‘51
Lt. Col. Dudley Kelsey ‘82
Mr. Dennis Kendziora ‘71
Mr. Mark Kloecker ‘84
SPRING 2011
villa Graduate
Mrs. Michelle Schwindt Easly ‘79
Mrs. Cheryl Walczak Eckard ‘85
Mrs. Kelly Burke Ehrman ‘87
Mrs. Carolyn Mogel Ehrman ‘59
Mrs. Maria Ciccozzi Ehrman ‘82
Mrs. Mary Weynard Eisert ‘38
Mrs. Audrey Dolak Eiswerth ‘57
Mrs. Deborah Heubel Enzbrenner ‘87
Mrs. Suzanne Gloekler Esser ‘60
Mrs. Cynthia Yezzi Esser ‘85
Mrs. Darla Kirsch Farrell ‘59
Mrs. Lisa Kossbiel Fatica ‘79
Mrs. Lisa Carlin Faulkner ‘86
Mrs. Julie Yochim Ferraro ‘98
Mrs. Erin Doolin Fessler ‘84
Mrs. Amy D’Andrea Fessler ‘84
Mrs. Barbara Heintzel Filutze ‘64
Mrs. Kathleen Power Fox ‘77
Mrs. Margaret Selleny Gardner ‘53
Mrs. Bridget Palas Gartner ‘99
Mrs. Judith Bula Geary ‘82
Mrs. Joan Carlson Gehrlein ‘63
Mrs. Annie Lastowski Gehrlein ‘71
Mrs. Kathy Daubert Glance ‘83
Mrs. Mary Ann Behan Glance ‘59
Mrs. Patricia Amon Goetz ‘67
Mrs. Maurita Christy Griffin ‘75
Mrs. Lynn Stancliff Grychowski ‘88
Mrs. Mary Alice Stumph Haibach ‘51
Mrs. Katherine Grode Halder ‘55
Mrs. Ann Lorei Halupczynski ‘79
Mrs. Marlene DeBello Hamm ‘59
Mrs. Bonnie Watts Harding ‘59
Mrs. Domini Angelcyk Hedderman ‘93
Mrs. Christine Shipley Heid ‘68
Mrs. Leesa Bradley Heise ‘80
Mrs. Nancy Scalzitti Hilbert ‘87
Mrs. Melanie Dobbs Hilliard ‘92
Mrs. Mary Martucci Hoffman ‘89
Mrs. Patricia Ostryniec Hoffman ‘83
Mrs. Christine Stelmack Holland ‘75
Mrs. Mary Reitzell Jackman ‘59
Mrs. Amy Schlosser Jones ‘89
Mrs. Mary Becht Karpen ‘56
Mrs. Lisa Miller Kaveney ‘83
Mrs. Sarah Cooney Kearney ‘51
Mrs. Susanne Scalise Kelsey ‘83
Mrs. Darlene DiTullio Kenziora ‘70
Mrs. Rosemary Campbell Kloecker ‘85
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
5
Are you married to a Villa Victor?
(Continued)
Prep Graduate
Mr. J. Patrick Kloecker ‘64
Mr. Joseph Kloecker ‘83
Mr. Edward Kloecker ‘44
Mr. James Kloecker ‘86
Mr. Joseph Kloecker ‘63
Mr. James Kloecker ‘86
Dr. David Kosiorek ‘77
Dr. Richard Kuhn ‘53
Dr. Daniel Laskowski ‘61
Mr. David Lastowski ‘69
Mr. Paul Leone ‘93
Dr. Thomas Lesniewski ‘75
Mr. Joseph Little ‘78
Mr. Kevin Louis ‘83
Dr. John Lupo ‘84
Mr. Paul Maciulewicz ‘77
Mr. Francis Marchal ‘75
Mr. Christopher Marz ‘99
Mr. John Mayberry ‘60
Mr. Joseph McCallion ‘83
Mr. Dennis Miazga ‘68
Mr. Chad Michaelson ‘92
Mr. Robert Mikolajczyk ‘65
Mr. Albert Mink ‘48
Dr. Frank Mozdy ‘76
Dr. Joseph Namey ‘68
Mr. Daniel Nawrocki ‘58
Mr. Daniel Nawrocki ‘83
Mr. Michael Neubauer ‘99
Mr. Carl Nicolia ‘80
Mr. James Nielsen ‘64
Mr. James Nies ‘44
Mr. Kenneth Norland ‘50
Mr. James Nutter ‘72
Mr. Thomas O’Camb ‘77
Mr. Patrick O’Leary ‘73
Mr. David Palas ‘70
Dr. Gary Pasqualicchio ‘67
Mr. Thomas Pianta ‘59
Mr. Bryan Pol ‘89
Mr. Dennis Prischak ‘78
Dr. Michael Rahner ‘76
Mr. John Reisenberg ‘62
Mr. Barry Roach ‘78
Mr. Raymond Rosswog ‘58
Mr. James Rutkowski ‘79
6 SPRING 2011
villa Graduate
Mrs. Catherine Diefenbach Kloecker ‘65
Mrs. Amy Shipley Kloecker ‘83
Mrs. Katherine Harmle Kloecker ‘46
Mrs. Patricia Fessler Kloecker ‘86
Mrs. Jean Kern Kloecker ‘63
Mrs. Patricia Kloecker ‘86
Ms. Maria Maleski Kosiorek ‘79
Mrs. Kay Caryl Kuhn ‘54
Mrs. Dalila Smoot Laskowski ‘62
Mrs. Kathleen Baniewicz Lastowski ‘70
Mrs. Diane Martin Leone ‘93
Mrs. Patricia Allen Lesniewski ‘76
Mrs. Barb DiRienzo Little ‘78
Mrs. Tricia Tesore Louis ‘83
Mrs. Kimberly Silverman Lupo ‘84
Mrs. Lisa Brighton Maciulewicz ‘77
Mrs. Mary Lynne Sivak Marchal ‘75
Mrs. Mary Hersch Marz ‘00
Mrs. Janet Buttice Mayberry ‘60
Mrs. Michelle Spinelli McCallion ‘84
Mrs. Janet Schrum Miazga ‘69
Mrs. Kara Anderson Michaelson ‘92
Mrs. Joyce Koehler Mikolajczyk ‘66
Mrs. Sally Casey Mink ‘53
Mrs. Diana Pagliari Mozdy ‘76
Mrs. Maria Serafini Namey ‘69
Mrs. Janet Geiger Nawrocki ‘59
Mrs. Mary Beth Kelly Nawrocki ‘83
Mrs. Aimee McKean Neubauer ‘00
Mrs. Jacqueline Giacobello Nicolia ‘80
Mrs. Marcia Weigand Nielsen ‘66
Mrs. Marion Maloney Nies ‘50
Mrs. Cecelia Teed Norland ‘50
Mrs. Sharyn Hurst Nutter ‘74
Mrs. Mary Tann O’Camb ‘77
Mrs. Mary Kay McNelis O’Leary ‘73
Mrs. Margaret Bertges Palas ‘72
Mrs. Mary Amendola Pasqualicchio ‘74
Mrs. Patricia Lasko Pianta ‘62
Mrs. Christie Lemmo Pol ‘90
Mrs. Tara Miller Prischak ‘91
Mrs. Anne Schaaf Rahner ‘76
Mrs. Kathie Mantsch Reisenberg ‘63
Mrs. Natalie Nies Roach ‘78
Mrs. Beverly Balliett Rosswog ‘57
Mrs. Mary Riley Rutkowski ‘82
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
Prep Graduate
Mr. Randall Rydzewski ‘73
Lt.Col. Andrew Sauer ‘86
Dr. Calvin Schroeck ‘63
Mr. Jack Schroeck ‘75
Mr. John Schupp ‘69
Mr. Robert Seelinger ‘61
Mr. R. James Sertz ‘61
Atty. John Shimek ‘78
Dr. Charles Shioleno ‘69
Mr. Joseph Shipley ‘58
Mr. Paul Simon ‘78
Mr. Eric Simora ‘92
Mr. Eric Sitzler ‘85
Mr. Allen Smith ‘84
Mr. Jeffrey Smith ‘94
Mr. Patrick Speice ‘72
Mr. Michael Steenberge ‘66
Mr. Gary Suminski ‘72
Mr. Gerald Tann ‘48
Mr. Charles Tann ‘52
Mr. Joseph Tarasovitch ‘81
Mr. Daniel Tempestini
Mr. John Tobin ‘81
Mr. Eugene Tomczak ‘93
Mr. Joseph Trzybinski ‘64
Mr. Michael Tullio ‘81
Mr. Thomas Uhrmacher ‘59
Mr. Robert Vahey ‘96
Mr. John Vahey ‘63
Mr. Anthony Viglione ‘82
Mr. Ronald Vomero ‘60
Mr. Earl Wagner ‘58
Mr. Thomas Weindorf ‘56
Mr. Richard Weiser ‘51
Cmdr. James Weiser ‘84
Mr. William Welch ‘69
Mr. Robert Wellington ‘61
Mr. David Wieczorek ‘59
Mr. Craig Wilczynski ‘98
Mr. John Williams ‘56
Mr. Adam Williams ‘01
Mr. Thomas Winschel ‘84
Dr. Francis Wyckoff ‘51
Mr. John Zdaniewski ‘95
Mr. Daniel Zimmerman ‘84
Mr. Edward Zinkosky ‘70
villa Graduate
Mrs. Trudy Peterson Rydzewski ‘74
Mrs. Therese Weunski Sauer ‘86
Mrs. Camille Tyczkowski Schroeck ‘64
Mrs. Maureen Carroll Schroeck ‘75
Mrs. Kathleen Maloney Schupp ‘69
Mrs. Mary Anne Lastowski Seelinger ‘62
Mrs. Mary Schodt Sertz ‘62
Mrs. Catherine Alberstadt Shimek ‘78
Mrs. Louetta Roseto Shioleno ‘69
Mrs. Linda White Shipley ‘59
Mrs. Denise Daugherty Simon ‘79
Mrs. Victoria Palas Simora ‘94
Mrs. Lori Timon Sitzler ‘83
Mrs. Denise Danowski Smith ‘87
Mrs. Dynelle George Smith ‘93
Mrs. Diane Compernolle Speice ‘72
Mrs. Colleen Kingston Steenberge ‘66
Mrs. Pamela Petrungar Suminksi ‘74
Mrs. Suzanne Leach Tann ‘48
Mrs. Kathleen Gerbracht Tann ‘52
Mrs. Debra Trott Tarasovitch ‘82
Mrs. Mary Ann Barabas Tempestini ‘69
Mrs. Karen Peterson Tobin ‘82
Mrs. Laura Zielinski Tomczak ‘92
Ms. Barbara Reusch Adams ‘63
Mrs. Tammie Bertges Tullio ‘82
Mrs. Nancy Donley Uhrmacher ‘60
Mrs. Julie Turbaczewski Vahey ‘98
Mrs. Barbara Wernicki Vahey ‘63
Mrs. Margaret Filipkowski Viglione ‘78
Mrs. Karen Sockett Vomero ‘61
Mrs. Marilyn Schreiner Wagner ‘60
Mrs. Kathleen Korn Weindorf ‘57
Mrs. Mary Young Weiser ‘51
Mrs. Constance Kloecker Weiser ‘81
Mrs. Patty Murray Welch ‘69
Mrs. Patricia Swaney Wellington ‘61
Mrs. Carol Vanchieri Wieczorek ‘63
Mrs. Rebecca Marnella Wilczynski ‘97
Mrs. Patricia Zamierowski Williams ‘57
Mrs. Jacqueline Gutting Williams ‘01
Mrs. Lisa Campagne Winschel ‘84
Mrs. Helen Maxwell Wyckoff ‘51
Mrs. Andrea Antolik Zdaniewski ‘96
Mrs. Susan Held Zimmerman ‘84
Mrs. Kathleen Ciotti Zinkosky ‘69
Four of Five Honorees at Gannon University’s
Alumni Dinner Affiliated with Prep
tripled the size of the schools in the past
five years.
Griffith believes in giving back to the
community and serves on many nonprofit boards, including The American
Cancer Society, Hamot, Emergycare, Erie
County Historical
Society and Culture
Spark.
First Row: Dana Fallon, president of the Gannon University National Alumni Association
and Dr. Antoine M. Garibaldi, former president of Gannon University. Second Row: Rick
Griffith’64, Sr. James Francis Mulligan and Dr. Mike Hagerty ’74. Third Row: Dr. Carl
Hoegerl and Francis Lunger ’63.
Like Meatloaf’s song, “Two Out of Three
Ain’t Bad”, four out of five is better.
Cathedral Prep has set many records over
the history of the school when it comes
to sports and academics, but this year we
are extremely proud to boast of a different
kind of record. Four out of five people who
were honored at Gannon University’s Annual Distinguished Alumni dinner in the
fall are affiliated with Prep. Three Prep
alums and one faculty member received
the honorable recognition. Alums, Francis
Lunger ’63, Rick Griffith ’64, and Dr. Mike
Hagerty ’74 and faculty member, Sr. James
Francis Mulligan, SSJ were all honored at
a dinner at the University in October.
Mr. Fran Lunger
Francis Lunger is
currently an operating partner at Linden
L.L.C, a privately
owned equity health
care fund with 30
years of healthcare
and operating experience. Prior to joining
Linden, he served as chairman and chief
officer of the Millipore Corporation from
2001 to 2004, a $1 billion life science tools
company.
Lunger serves on the Board of Directors
for DENTSPLY International, Inc. and
(NasdaqGS:XRAY) NDS surgical imaging
company.
Lunger graduated from Gannon in 1968.
He lives in Los Altos, California with his
wife, Joey, and has three children, Adam,
Nick and Kristin.
Rick Griffith is owner and operator of
more than a million square feet of properties in Erie County. He is owner and president of three trade schools: Toni and Guy
Academy, which teaches cosmetology;
Great Lakes Institute of Technology, which
specializes in medical careers; and Erie Institute of Technology, which teaches computer and electronics careers. Griffith has
Griffith graduated
from Gannon in
1970. He resides in
west Millcreek with
Mr. Rick Griffith
his wife, Noreen
Frances. This blended family includes
Scott Griffith ’87, Kevin Griffith ’90, Michelle Griffith-Aresco, Stephanie Tetuan
Callaway, and Michael Tetuan ’00.
Dr. Mike Hagerty is in private practice
with the Pennsylvania Heart Group, LTD
in Pittsburgh, Pa. Hagerty has board certifications in internal medicine, cardiovascular diseases and nuclear cardiology.
In the 1990s, Hagerty helped establish two
separate cardiology outreach programs to
underserved areas. The first was in Sharon, Pa., where he helped implement a
state-of-the-art cardiac catheterization
laboratory and cardiovascular center for
the Sharon Regional Health Center. The
second project was the creation of a satellite office in Clarion, Pa., bringing cardiovascular care to a community of 60,000
in Clarion County, which was without the
care of a cardiologist.
Dr. Mike Hagerty
SPRING 2011
Hagerty has been a
member of American College of Cardiology (Fellow),
American Heart Association, American
College of Physicians, and the American Medical Association.
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
7
Four of Five Honorees
at Gannon University’s
Alumni Dinner Affiliated
with Prep
(Continued)
Hagerty graduated from Gannon in 1978.
He lives in Pittsburgh, with his wife, Margaret. They have two daughters, Sarah
and Diane.
Sr. James Francis
Mulligan, SSJ
She’s an inspiration to many, especially
Prep students. Sr. James Francis Mulligan,
SSJ has taught at Cathedral Prep for over
28 years. In addition to teaching at Prep,
she teaches over at Gannon, without any
complaints making the trek between the
two schools, even in the winters.
She entered the convent on August 26, 1947. Mulligan has taught
at several schools including: Saint Peter Cathedral, Holy Rosary,
Saint Andrew and Villa Maria Elementary Schools in Erie; Saint
Leo High School, Ridgeway; Villa Maria College and Saint Mark
Seminary, Erie.
101-Year-Old
Harry Hahn
Receives an Honorary
Prep Diploma By Christine Eddy
It’s a moment in time that I will remember for the rest of my life.
He didn’t have to say a word…his face said it all.
President Father Scott Jabo presented Harry Hahn an honorary
Cathedral Prep diploma on October 5, 2010 at a luncheon at the
Erie Club. Hahn, who is 101 years old, started at Prep in 1924.
He attended Prep for a year and a half before leaving to work
to help pay for his brother’s Prep education. When Hahn was
handed the diploma, he became very emotional. Tears welled
in his eyes, he couldn’t say anything. Much like his life that has
been filled with many unexpected blessings, this was a tremendous honor that left Hahn speechless.
After Hahn regained his composure, he said, “This is one of the
highlights of my life.”
In 2006, papal honors were bestowed on Mulligan. The Papal
Cross is given to clergy, religious and laity who have given exemplary service for the Church and for the Pope. Originally intended to honor those who were of direct service to the Pope,
today the Cross is ordinarily awarded to those whose service is
rendered primarily to the local Church.
Hahn has been active his whole life. He worked for Hammermill
for 48 years. He started as a messenger there and ended up in
personnel. He spent over 50 years volunteering for credit unions.
He is also very active at St. Ann’s Church, his local parish. He has
been a member there for the past 72 years. He served the church
as and acolyte and as president of St. Ann’s Guard of Honor.
He spent 25 years volunteering for the American Red Cross and
served as president of Erie Greater Safety Council and as director
of the National Safety Council. Hahn is currently an honorary
director for the Erie Community Federal Credit Union and was a
board member of the Pennsylvania Credit Union Association for
15 years. In 1998 Hahn was honored with the Joseph A. Moore
Achievement Award as Volunteer of the Year.
Muligan has also received the “Religious Outstanding Achievement Award” by the Serra Club, the “National Reading Award”
and the “Golden Apple Award”.
Hahn’s quick wit made for a lively and enjoyable lunch. His
memory is amazing. He remembers his time at Prep like it was
yesterday.
In 2007, she celebrated her 60-year Jubilee with the Sisters of
Saint Joseph. Mulligan graduated from Villa Maria College in
1947.
Hahn spoke very highly of Prep. “During the time that I was at
Prep, I learned a lot which made for good citizenship. You see
that in Prep graduates today. They want to be a part of the world
and help. There is nothing
more essential than that.”
Mulligan has taught catechism at Saint Ann, Saint Mark (Lawrence Park), Blessed Sacrament, Saint Andrew and Saint Leo parishes.
Cathy Fresch, Director of Gannon’s Alumni Services, said, “Gannon University’s Distinguished Alumni program has a decadeslong tradition that has honored many Cathedral Prep graduates,
but it was truly extraordinary that four of the five 2010 winners
have a connection to the school. It was our special honor to have
Sr. James Francis receive the Msgr. Wilfrid J. Nash Principles of
Christian Conduct Award, and we are so proud of the young men
who have continued their Catholic education by choosing Gannon. By looking at the number of accomplished alumni who have
followed that path, it seems the combination is a recipe for success.”
Congratulations to all of our honorees on receiving a tremendous
honor for all of their amazing accomplishments!
8 SPRING 2011
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
Hahn keeps up to date with
all of the happenings at
Cathedral Prep by reading
his magazine. He applauds
the efforts of the teachers,
staff and administration.
Congratulations,
Harry, on your
honorary diploma!
Weschler Family & Friends Honor Unsung
WWII Hero, Lt. Charles John Weschler ’27
Lieutenant Charles John Weschler, USN, was awarded the
Distinguished Service Medal and the Purple Heart for his role in
early combat operations in the Philippines. He died at the young
age of 36 in 1945 while being held as a prisoner of war. The
Weschler family and friends have come together to memorialize
his life. The family has donated $250,000 to Oliver Hazard Perry
Rhode Island, the nonprofit organization building Rhode Island’s
Education at Sea school ship SSV Oliver Hazard Perry. The
ship’s Great Cabin will be named after him. The Lt. Charles John
Weschler Great Cabin will be used regularly for classroom space
and as a navigation station, but also as the principal ceremonial
area, including for educational honors for student achievers.
Weschler graduated in 1927. His brother Tom’34 is thrilled
to have his brother’s legacy live on. “He was such an intelligent
young man. He went to Prep and was an honor student. He
went onto the Naval Academy where he was fifth in a class of
600. He was second in his class at MIT and did remarkably
well. He valued education and achieved it. He used it as a
springboard for his career.”
After becoming a line Lieutenant and a naval constructor,
Weschler was assigned to Norfolk Naval Shipyard in Portsmouth,
Va., where he met and married his wife, Mary Allen Everett, in
1939. The year after Tom graduated from the Naval Academy in
1939, Charles and his bride departed for the Philippines. It was
the last memory the family would have of him.
Charles and Mary Allen were stationed near Manila at Cavite
on Sangley Point where Charles worked at the naval shipyard.
Tensions had risen with Japan, and all families were ordered back
to the United States, effective end of September. Because she was
pregnant, Mary Allen was allowed to stay on until their daughter,
Ann Amelia, was born on December 7, 1940. On January 19,
1941, mother and baby sailed back while Charles continued on
at Cavite. Ann Amelia (also known as Mimi) Weiss lives with her
husband, Ted, in Edinboro. The Weiss’ have four children.
“Lt. Charles Weschler was a true hero for his magnificent
and inspiring support of the combat submarine operations in
Mariveles Bay near Manila and Corregidor through the first
few months of the War until their fall, and Charles’ subsequent
capture as a POW,” said Weschler. During his detainment,
Charles was reported as a selfless and optimistic stalwart among
fellow captives. He died from wounds following the tragic
bombing of his unmarked prison ship by U.S. Naval Forces in
mid-January 1945.
Lt. Charles John Weschler died on January 16, 1945, and his
body was consigned to the sea by fellow POWs.
Tom was a Vice Admiral in the United States Navy. He
said his brother had everything with his decision to go into the
Navy. “I knew I wanted to go to the Naval Academy. He was my
inspiration to be an achiever.”
Prep in 1931 went into the Army and pursued his own course
of studies. Tom said, “I give Prep the credit for laying the
educational foundation for us.”
The ship is still in the process of being built. It is expected
to be finished in 2013. Once the deck, accommodations and
systems are installed and rig complete, the school ship will sail
as a 230-foot (sparred length), three-masted, square rigger—the
largest, privately owned, active tall ship in America.
For more information on Oliver Hazard Perry Education at
Sea, visit www.ohpri.org.
Another brother, Frank, who is deceased, graduated from
SPRING 2011
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
9
CLASS OF ’61 TO
CELEBRATE FIFTIETH
T
he Cathedral Prep Class of 1961 will celebrate the
50th anniversary of their graduation on June 3-5.
The dates were chosen so that all members of the
class, especially those who are returning to Erie from many
different locations, would be available to participate in Prep’s
Commencement at the Warner Theater. It has been the
custom for the past five years for the fiftieth reunion class to
join the current seniors as a show of support on their day
of graduation. The Class of ’61 is looking for a large turnout
of men to return to their alma mater for the impressive
celebration.
The weekend kicks off with a classmates gathering at the
new Cathedral Prep Events Center on Friday evening,
June 3, starting at 6 p.m. Food and drink will be provided,
and there will be trips to the school for those who want to
reminisce and walk through the hallowed halls again.
A golf outing is planned for Saturday morning at
Downing Golf Course with tee times starting at 10 a.m.
A dinner/dance for classmates and spouses/guests at the
Maennerchor Club is on tap for Saturday evening with
cocktails at 6 p.m. followed by dinner at 7 p.m.
The celebration continues on Sunday with Mass in the Prep conference room to remember deceased
classmates, followed by brunch in the school cafeteria. Mass begins at 11 a.m., and there will also
be time for informal tours until 1:30 p.m. when the golden anniversary guys head to the Warner for
Commencement at 2 p.m.
All graduates of the Class of 1961 are invited to reunion events and should have received information
in the mail by now. If you have not received a schedule of events and a reservation form, it probably
means that the class does not have a current valid address; please contact Nancy Bird in the
Advancement Office at (814) 453-7737 x 2293 or nbird@cathedral-prep.com, and she will steer you to
a reunion committee member.
10 SPRING 2011
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
Cathedral Preparatory School
REUNION WEEKEND 2011
July 22 - 24
Honoring the classes of:
1946, 1951, 1956, 1966, 1971, 1976,
1981, 1986, 1991, 1996, 2001, 2006
Friday, July 22, 2011
Classmates Picnic
Cathedral Prep Events Center
Saturday, July 23, 2011
INDIVIDUAL CLASS ACTIVITIES
TIME: 7 p.m. – 11 p.m.
COST: $15 per person
Picnic is Outdoors (weather permitting)
Casual Attire
Registration in the CPEC Building, Field Level
Parking Entrance at 12th and Poplar Streets
Cost includes Picnic Food, Beer, Pop, Water
BYOB for Additional Beverages
Planned by individual class representatives
See www.cathedral-prep.com for more info.
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Family Mass & Breakfast
Prep Auditorium and Cafeteria
TIME: 10 a.m. Mass
11 a.m. Breakfast
COST: $5 per person
Family Mass in the Prep Auditorium
Continental Breakfast in the Prep Cafeteria
Self-guided School Tours
Cathedral Prep Reunion Weekend 2011 Reservation Form
EVENT
ALUMNI INFORMATION
Name:
Class Year:
Email:
# attending
TOTAL
$15
$5
TOTAL
Address:
Home Phone:
Classmates Picnic
Mass/Breakfast
Spouse / Guest Name:
City:
cost/person
Check Enclosed (payable to Cathedral Prep)
State:
Cell Phone:
ZIP:
Please charge:  MasterCard  Visa  Discover
Exp. Date:
Credit Card #:
Signature:
Please register online (www.cathedral-prep.com) or return registration form by July 1, 2011 to:
Cathedral Preparatory School, Advancement Office, 225 West 9th Street, Erie, PA 16501
SPRING 2011
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School 11
Class
Notes
The President
to Visit
the Capital!
1947, Msgr. John Hagerty received a proclamation from the Commonwealth of Pa. to
a standing ovation during a school Mass at
Blessed Sacrament in October. State Representative Pat Harkins (Prep parent to Matthew ’12
& Patrick ’12) presented Hagerty
with the proclamation when he
learned that he
was chosen as
“Priest of the Year”
by the Serra Club.
F
1961, George Behringer was recently appointed the Honorary Consul General for Japan
in Nebraska. He represents the Japanese government in Nebraska
when a Japanese official is not there. He
is responsible for encouraging more bilateral trade with students and professors.
The appointment is for
five years by the Minister of Foreign Affairs in
Japan.
Washington, D.C .,
Alumni Reception
r. Scott Jabo President of Cathedral
Preparatory School and Villa Maria
Academy, will host a casual hors
d’oeuvre reception in our nation’s
capital!
Cathedral Preparatory
School and Villa Maria Academy invite our
Washington, D.C.-area alumni to the reception
at the Capital Hilton on Thursday, May 19,
2011 from 6-9 p.m. Fr. Jabo plans to briefly
update guests on happening at Prep and Villa.
This is a great opportunity for Washington,
D.C. area alums to meet other Erieites who
may have relocated near our nation’s capital.
Who knows, you may just reacquaint yourself
with a classmate who lives right in “your
own backyard”! If you live in the greater
Washington, D.C. area and would like more
information, please contact Nancy Bird,
Director of Constituent Relations at nbird@
cathedral-prep.com or 814-453-7737 ×2293.
1964, Bob Holmes, Executive director of Homeward
Pikes Peak in Colorado
Springs, has received recognition in his efforts to
help the homeless. The El
Pomar Foundation honored
Holmes with its Shrine of the
Sun Award, given to a nonprofit professional who has
“had a profound and lasting
impact on the nonprofit community.” It carries a
$12,500 prize, $7,500 of which must go to a nonprofit of the winner’s choice. El Pomar also named
Homeward Pikes Peak the 2010 winner in the selfsufficiency category during its Awards for Excellence banquet.
1966, Dave Grant is a member of MENSA, the
international high IQ society. Membership of
Mensa is open to persons who have attained a
score within the upper two percent of the general population on an approved intelligence test
that has been properly administered and supervised. Are there any other Prep grads who are
members of MENSA? Email Christine Eddy at
ceddy@cathedral-prep.com.
12 SPRING 2011
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
1973, Rob Doyle and his wife, Lynne, served as
the chair couple for the 2010 Annual Christmas
Ball benefiting the Barber National Institute. The
Ball was held at the Bayfront Convention Center
in December. The Doyles have been attending
the ball for nearly three decades. The Christmas
Ball is the largest fundraiser of the year for the
Barber International Institute. All of the proceeds
benefit services for children and adults with disabilities and their families. L-R: Rob ’01, Lauren
’08 (VMA), Lynne, Rob ’73, Ryan ’04 and Andrew
’05.
Members of the class of 1978 gathered over
the holidays to reconnect after many years. L-R:
Jack Gordon, Mike Minnaugh, Jay Little, Joe
calabrese, Greg Zimmerman (Honorary Prepster), Jeff Luthringer, and Paul Simon. These
Prep alumni have sent a total of six sons to Prep
and two daughters to Villa.
1978 Dr. Jeffrey Zimm performed a corneal
transplant on Sherman Garvin, a Jamaican man,
in Naples to give him the gift of sight. Dr. Zimm
donated his surgical services and facilities and
the St. John Evangelist Church Jamaican Outreach Program donors funded the cost of the
corneal tissue.
1982, Dante Parrini
has been named chairman of Glatfelter in
York, Pa. Prior to being
named chairman, Parrini
was promoted to president and chief executive officer. Glatfelter is
a global manufacturer
of specialty papers and fiber-based engineered
products.
1990, Major Joseph King
graduated from Carnegie
Mellon University with a
Master of Science degree
in Biological Sciences. He
is presently serving in the
United States Army at West Point Military Academy. He is teaching chemistry to the Class of
2013. King served in Afghanistan for 18 months.
He is married to Kelly Larese King and is the father to three sons, Collin (age 14), Liam (age 10)
and Cade (age 8).
1991, Gary King II underwent double-lung
transplant surgery on
November 22, 2010 at
Duke University Hospital in Durham, N.C. Gary
graduated with a degree
in Exercise Science from
Louisiana Tech in August 1997 and lettered
in baseball in 1995. He is currently employed by
Auto Owner’s Insurance Company, Raleigh, N.C.
Get well wishes may be sent to 1220-F Manasses
Ct., Raleigh, N.C. 17609.
1991, Matthew Lechner married Abigail Gallo
’98 (VMA) on October 29 at St. Patrick Church. A
cocktail reception was held at the Erie Art Museum. Several Prep and Villa grads were in the
bridal party: B.J. Lechner ’65, Ryan Murphy ’90,
Garret Brugger ‘91, Christopher Lechner ’95, Aaron Phillips ’95, Brian Tellers ’95, Michael Tellers
‘98 Robert Gallo ‘01,
Barbara
(Rodeno)
Lechner ’66 (VMA),
Gretchen Faller Gallo
’70 (VMA), Emily (McCormick) Hutchinson ’98 (VMA) and
Jason Dudas ‘98
(VMA). The couple
Honeymooned in
Rome and the Amalfi
Coast of Italy and Istanbul, Turkey.
1994, Randall Tecza was named area vice president for Comcast Communications. He lives in
Mt. Lebanon with his wife, Dana, and three children, Alex (6), Taylor (4), and Addison (2 months).
Plastics News photo by Bill Bregar
1995, Phil Katen,
part owner of Plastikos, Inc. along with
two fellow Ramblers
who make up the
leadership team, Ryan
Katen ’99 and Rob
Cooney ’97, are proud
of their latest accomplishment in the industry. The company
was named the 2010
North American Processor of the Year by PlasticsNews. The Processor of the Year award places Plastikos among the
very best-of-the-best, truly the pinnacle of the
plastics industry, and is recognition of the hard
work, dedication, performance, and passion of
everyone on the team. Plastikos General Manager and President Philip Katen, left, and manufacturing manager Robert Cooney stand next to
one of the company’s Arburgs.
1995, Daniel Rzepecki
and his wife, Jennifer,
welcomed daughter Laila
James on June 22, 2010.
She was born in Annapolis, M.D., and joins big sister Ella.
2000, Michael Maxson and his wife, Kara welcomed daughter Charleigh Sophia Maxson
on April 2, 2011. Charleigh weighed 6.5 lbs.
and was 19 inches long.
1998, Mark Dana and his wife Alyson are the
proud parents of Paul Anthony Dana. He was born
January 18, 2011 at St. Vincent’s Hospital. He weighed
7 lbs., 11 oz. and was 20 1/2”
long. The future Prepster
will be a member of the
class of 2029.
1998, Trevor Murnock and his wife, Christina,
are the proud parents of daughter Olivia. She
was born on September 20. She weighed 9
lb. 8 oz. Olivia joins big
brother Trevor and big
sisters Miriam and Regina. Murnock is the
Assistant Principal at
Cathedral Prep.
1997, Graham Witherspoon established the
William Bunn Preparatory School for boys in Raleigh, N.C. this past September. Witherspoon was
a teacher for four years and police officer for six.
He has his principal’s certificate and is headmaster of the school. Witherspoon said, “The school
has high standards and high expectations which
will produce high results. The William Bunn Preparatory School is about making leaders and
having them attend college.” Cathedral Prep has
made a difference in Witherspoon’s life and now
he is giving that opportunity to children in North
Carolina.
1999, Peter Gervase ran in
the 2010 “City of Oaks” (Raleigh, N.C.) marathon In November. It was his first marathon, and he finished in the
top half of the 750 marathon
runners.
1999, Andy Stephany married Laura Staresinic
on June 5, 2010 at Heinz Chapel at the University of Pittsburgh. Father Ray Hahn ’66 married
the couple. Bottom row, L-R: Phillips Farbo ’02,
Jim Schmitt ’63, David Stephany ’68, Patrick
Speice ’99, Bill Stephany ’72 (father of groom).
Top row, L-R: Sean Morphy ’00, Don Morphy
’66, Bryan Morphy ’03, Donnie Morphy ’96, Matthew Stephany ’06, Andy Stephany ’99 (groom),
Laura Staresinic (bride), David Barron ’75, Patrick
Waldinger ’95, Fr. Ray Hahn ’66, Mike Pomorski
’99 and John Stephany ’89.
2001, Dennis Braendel
and his wife, Cara Noonan
Braendel ’01 (VMA), welcomed their first child on
February 1, 2011. Dennis Charles III was born
at 5:14 p.m. and weighed
7 lbs. 15 oz. and was 20
inches long.
2001, Ben Dougherty and his
wife, Amy Yakish ’01 (VMA), welcomed their son Benjamin Daniel
into the world on October 8th,
2010. Benjamin is the couple’s
first child. Fellow Prep alum Carl
Nicolia ’80 could not resist the opportunity to have a custom Prep
wrestling onesie made when
he heard about all of the rolling
around Benjamin was doing.
2001, Dr. Jack Jamison married Kristy Ciccarelli
on October 2 at St. Peter
Cathedral. Msgr. William
Biebel ’54 officiated. Following the ceremony, a
reception took place at
the Bayfront Convention
Center. The newlyweds
honeymooned in Mexico.
Jamison is chiropractor at
Lake Erie Spine & Injury
Center. His wife is a career
development administrator at Mercyhurst College. In addition to their
jobs, they both coach at Prep. Jack coaches pole
vault and Kristy is the assistant coach. Jamison’s
sister, who served as his “best man”, Grace
Jamison Reiser ’99 (VMA), her husband, David
Reiser ’92, were also in attendence. Members
of the Class of 2001 were also present: Michael
Hromyak, Brian Behan and Peter DeMichele.
2001, Adam Williams and his wife, Jackie, welcomed a baby boy on October 20, 2010. Royce Christopher was 7 lbs. 14 oz. and was
20 1/2 inches long. Williams is
the law clerk for Judge John
Trucilla ‘78.
SPRING 2011
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School 13
Class
Notes
2002, Jeremy Hewitt
got engaged to Kristin Leonard in October.
Hewitt is the advancement director at St. Luke
School. He also freelances as a graphic designer.
Leonard is currently in
grad school at Boston
University. They are planning a September 2012
wedding at Mercyhurst
College, where they met.
2005, c.J. Toledano is living
his dream. After interning
for Conan O’Brien for a few
months, Toledano was hired
as a writer for Late Night with
Jimmy Fallon. Watch for his
name in the credits!
2001, fr. Dan Hoffman, Br. John Paul Kuzma
’00 (novice in the Capuchin Francisan Friars), and
fr. Bill Barron ‘99 got together during a visit to
John’s Franciscan Friary in Pittsburgh, St. Conrad
Friary. John has been there for a year of discernment. This summer, at the end of his discernment
year, he will take his first vows as a Franciscan. Fr.
Dan is studying Canon Law at Catholic University
in Washington, D.C., and Fr. Bill is a Parochial Vicar
at Our Lady of Peace, Erie, and the Associate Vocations Director for the Diocese.
Updates?
The Advancement office at Cathedral Prep
works very hard to stay connected with our
alumni. We consistently update addresses,
emails and phone numbers to keep our
graduates in the loop of all of the great
happenings at Prep. Now it is even easier to
update your information. A change of address
form is now available on our website at http://
www.cathedral-prep.com/alumni/change-ofaddress-form/.
2007, Scott Stano served
as Thiel College’s first-ever
sideline reporter for the
football team. Stano is
a senior who is actively
involved with the media
communications department at the college. He
has his mind set on becoming a sports broadcast
announcer for either ESPN
or any large market. Stano appears on the college television station doing the news and other
shows.
2002, Mark A. cipriani married Leigh Gottermeier on July 4th 2010 in her hometown, Pittsford, New York. The ceremony was at St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church, and the reception
was at Casa Larga Vineyards. Fr. Larry Richards
presided over the ceremony. The couple, who
met at Penn State, honeymooned in Hawaii. They
live in Indianapolis, where Mark is an engineer for
Ingersoll Rand, and Leigh is a demand manager
for Eli Lilly and Company.
L-R: 2002 classmates-Brian Henry, Thomas Giblin,
Zach Harper, Kevin Mahoney, Mark Cipriani, Ebbo
Skadhauge, and Dave Parker.
!
Congrats
2008, Peter Susko currently a junior at the
University of Mary Washington, and his debate
partner, Kevin Kallmyer, were among 78 twoperson debate teams that qualified for the nation’s oldest and most prestigious intercollegiate
debate championship. They remained in the
competition through the semi-final round, beating Georgia State University, Harvard University,
and Wake Forest University, to end up with the
University’s highest finish ever at the national
tournament. Following that appearance, the
men were invited to stage a debate at the Smithsonian for Earth Day.
Congratulations to the following Prep graduates
who were named to the Dean’s List at Penn
State Erie, The Behrend College for the Fall
Semester.
Michael Blount ’08
Gregory Chludzinski ’07
Michael Nelson ’09
14 SPRING 2011
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
1936 William J. Rastatter, February 13, 2011, served in the U. S. Army. 1948 William J. Quirk, Sr., February 18, 2011, graduated from Gannon
College. He received his master’s degree in Education from
He was stationed at Frederick, OK Army Air Field where he was a
Edinboro University. During the Korean War, he served with the
physical training instructor for pilots. He worked for the General
U.S. Air Force as a navigator with Air Rescue and later joined the Air
Electric Co. for 41 years prior to his retirement.
Force reserves, retiring after 30 years as a Lieutenant Colonel. He
1936 William J. Sebald, December 26, 2010, served in the U.S. Navy and
was a physics and chemistry teacher with the Erie school district,
was a letter carrier for the U.S. Postal Service.
retiring in 1988 from Academy High School.
was the owner of Marshall Funeral Home from 1958-1969 and was
1948 Joseph G. cavarretta, March 20, 2011, was employed with
employed as a PA Real Estate Broker.
Meadow Brook Dairy as a driver and salesman for 26 years, retiring
in 1992.
1953 John J. “Jack” Geiger, April 5, 2011, served in the U.S. Army in
Berlin as an Honor Guard. He was the third-generation partner in
1948 Atty. Louis A. colussi, September 4, 2010, attended St. Francis
Geiger and Sons Monuments.
College, received his bachelor’s degree from John Carroll University
and his Juris Doctorate from Georgetown University. He served 1953 Dr. Jack Pontoriero, November 11, 2010, attended Columbian
as Corporal in the U. S. Army during the Korean War. He was
School in Washington, D.C. before attending West Point. He
appointed as an attorney with the Office of Judicial Examination
graduated from the University of Virginia and the University of
in the Administrative Division of the U.S. Dept. of Justice. He was
Pittsburgh Dental School. He served in the U.S. Navy during the
selected by Mayor Louis Tullio for the position of Ombudsman for
Vietnam War and retired from the U.S. Army after 42 years of service.
the City of Erie. He then opened his own private law office where he
He had a private dental practice for many years before retiring from
practiced for over 50 years.
the Community Health Net.
All our Alumni and all our benefactors, living and deceased, are remembered in our daily
Masses celebrated in our St. Joseph Chapel. Mary, Queen of Prep, pray for us!
1937 casimir S. Krauza, September 21, 2010, entered the General 1949 William D. Ring, September 10, 2010, served in the U.S. Navy
Electric Apprentice Program upon graduation and started a 43-year
during the Korean War. He was employed as vice president of
career at the Erie plant in various supervisory positions until his
investments at Wells Fargo.
retirement in 1980.
1950 fr. cornelius G. conti, November 14, 2010, received a B.A. in
1939 Thomas L. fuhrman, March 15, 2011, served in the U.S. Army
English from Gannon College. He was received into the Order of
during WWII. He was a salesman for Hubbell Supply before he
Friars Minor on July 14, 1956. He studied philosophy at St. Francis
became the owner , retiring in 1988.
College and theology at Holy Name College. He served as guidance
counselor at Bishop Walsh High School in Olean from 1968-1972,
1940 Joseph W. Urbanowicz, March 5, 2011, attended Gannon
was assigned to the Admissions Office at St. Bonaventure University,
University and served in the U.S. Army. He worked for Welch
where he received a master’s degree in Education in 1971. He then
Foods in Westfield, N.Y., and retired after 37 years of service as an
resided at Holy Name College in Washington, D.C. while earning a
accountant and office manager.
Master of Arts degree in 1973 from Washington Theological Union.
From 1973-1977, he assisted with the Franciscan Youth Apostolate
1941 John f. Kloecker, August 27, 2010, served in the U.S. Army during
at St. Francis of Assisi Church in New York City. From 1977-1979,
WW II. He attended Gannon College and graduated from Penn
he was hospital chaplain at St. Francis Hospital in Olean. He was
State University with a degree in mechanical engineering. He was
parochial vicar at Our Lady of the Angels parish in the Bronx from
employed by Erie City Iron Works and the Energy Division of Zurn
1979-1981. From 1981-1983, he was associate at St. Anthony Shrine,
Industries for 39 years.
Boston, MA. From 1983-1984, he was parochial vicar at St. Stephen
of Hungary Parish in New York City. From 1984-188, he was assigned
1943 Walter P. Barko, November 30, 2010, served in the U.S. Navy
to Our Lady of the Angels Parish in Kingston, Jamaica, as parochial
during WW II. He attended Erie Business Center after returning
vicar. He returned to St. Anthony Shrine until 1992, then spent a
from military service. He went on to work at General Electric until
year at St. Bonaventure University as Coordinator of Athletics. He
his retirement. He was also an employee of the U.S. Postal Service.
was appointed pastor of the parish in Kingston, Jamaica for two
1943 John W. flanigan, November 27, 2010, attended Gannon College.
years, then resided for a year at St. Patrick-St. Anthony in Hartford,
He served during WW II as a combat engineer. He was vice president
CT, before retiring to St. Anthony Friary in St. Petersburg, FL.
of Lyons Transportation Lines and retired after 30 years of service.
1950 Donald e. Kundrath, December 31, 2010, attended Gannon
1945 John L. Grumblatt, December 28, 2010.
University. He was a veteran of the Korean War. He worked as a
plastics engineer until his retirement.
1946 earl L. May, November 16, 2010, worked at Erie City Iron Works.
Most recently, he worked as operations manager with Elgin 1952 casimir T. Marshall, August 23, 2010, attended Gannon College
Electronics for over 27 years before retiring in 1977.
and was a graduate of Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science. He
1948 Raymond J. fromknecht, October 3, 2010, served in the Korean 1953 Msgr. Lawrence T. Speice, January 16, 2011, attended Saint Mary’s
War. He owned and operated the East 21st Street IGA grocery store
Seminary and University where he earned a B.A. in Philosophy and
and then worked as a Sales Manager at Smith Provision for 32 years,
later a bachelor of Sacred Theology. He was ordained on May 11,
retiring in 1994.
1961 at St. Peter Cathedral in Erie. He was named Prelate of Honor in
1996 by Pope John Paul II. After his ordination, he was appointed as
1948 James e. Kirsch, January 18, 2011, was a veteran of the U.S. Navy
Associate Editor of the Lake Shore Visitor with residence at St. Andrew
Reserve.
Rectory. In 1963, he was assigned to Gannon College where he
remained until 1982. He held various positions at Gannon, including:
1948 Joseph Luteran, November 2, 2010.
Instructor, Assistant Director of Admissions, Dean of Students,
Assistant Registrar and Vice President of External Affairs. From 1982
through 1991, he served as the diocesan Vicar for Vocations, and in
1985 he was appointed Rector of Saint Mark Seminary.
SPRING 2011
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School 15
1954 Robert W. Jackson, March 27, 2011, attended Gannon University’s
engineering program. He was employed by General Electric for 35
years, retiring in 1997.
1955 Thomas R. Sosey, December 14, 2010.
1965 Joseph P. fischer, October 5, 2010, graduated from Gannon
University with a degree in psychology and a master’s degree in
guidance counseling. He was a veteran of the Vietnam War serving
in the U.S. Army. He was employed by EMTA until retiring in 2007.
All our Alumni and all our benefactors, living and deceased, are remembered in our daily
Masses celebrated in our St. Joseph Chapel. Mary, Queen of Prep, pray for us!
1956 David U. eiswerth, February 24, 2011, graduated from Gannon
University. He retired from Ford Motor Company in Dearborn, MI.
1965 Gary c. Lindenberger, August 31, 2010, graduated from Gannon
University. He was a mechanical engineering manager for 37 years
before retiring to Estes Park, CO in 2007.
1956 Thomas A. George, February 11, 2011, graduated from Penn
State University with a degree in civil engineering. After serving in
the U.S. Marines, he was employed for 35 years by the U.S. Forest
Service.
1969 John A. Monocello, Jr., December 30, 2010, received a bachelor’s
degree in English from Gannon University. He was the executive
director of orthopaedic and corporate health services at Hamot
Medical Center.
1956 Daniel J. Nelligan, December 19, 2010, served in the U.S. Army. He
was a sales representative with several food brokers and eventually
had a 23-year sales career as a district representative with Ralston
Purina Company, retiring in 1995.
1970 Patrick T. Dempsey, January 7, 2011, served in the U.S. Air Force
and was employed as a civilian at Edwards Air Force Base in
Edwards, CA.
1957 John D. Dauer, October 20, 2010, was employed by the family
wholesale business, John H. Dauer & Son, Inc., and later worked for
Spaulding, Inc. in Meadville. He went on to work for GAF Material
Corporation where he retired in 2002. He was a 20-year veteran of
the U.S. Army Reserves, where he retired as Sergeant First Class.
1958 John v. Potthoff, February 23, 2011, graduated from Penn State
University with an associate degree in electrical engineering. He
served in the U.S. Army. Over the years he worked for various
companies in the high pressure industrial pump and compressor
industry, including Autoclave Engineers and Hydro-Pac, before
founding Pressure Systems and Instruments.
1959 Louis J. Biancardi, September 15, 2010, attended Gannon College
and served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He was the
former owner and operator of the Blue Max Restaurant at the Erie
International Airport and also worked as GECAC head cook and
supervisor from 1987-2003. After his retirement from GECAC, he
owned the Magic Cookie Company and Bake Shoppe.
1960 Joseph e. Gredler, December 24, 2010, received his bachelor’s
degree from the University of Maryland. He was a veteran of
the U.S. Air Force. He worked for the U.S. government in various
embassies around the world until his retirement in 1995.
1960 Dennis M. Marini, August 22, 2010, received his bachelor’s degree
from John Carroll University and his MBA from Xavier University.
He was employed at General Electric and Harris Corporation, where
he retired in 1999 as vice president of human resources. After his
retirement, he served for many years as a consultant for a number
of major corporations.
1961 Richard A. Kosiorek, December 25, 2010.
1964 Robert J. Alex, October 14, 2010, graduated from Gannon
University and Stonier Graduate School of Banking where he
earned his master’s degree. He served with the U.S. Air Force. He
worked for the U.S. Treasury Department in Pittsburgh and the
former McDowell Bank in Sharon and retired from the First National
Bank where he was vice president of loan review.
1964 Ronald J. Shadeck, March 14, 2011, retired from Steris after 35
years of service. He was a past “Alumni of the Year” recipient. Ron
was chosen to perform the coin toss at the opening football game
of the Cathedral Prep Events Center.
16 SPRING 2011
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
1970 francis H. Keim, March 1, 2011, graduated from John Carroll
University with a bachelor’s degree in finance and Gannon
University with an MBA. He received his Pennsylvania Bankers
Association School of Banking degree and worked for Mellon
Bank in various positions including loan administrator for credit
policy, vice president of commercial banking and business center
manager for Erie and Meadville, overseeing commercial lending in
Erie, Clarion, Crawford, Mercer and Venango counties.
1983 David e. conover, March 2, 2011, was a graduate of Penn State
Behrend and received an MBA from Gannon University. He was
employed at the Erie Times-News for over 20 years.
1992 Anthony J. Marsowicz, Jr., March 20, 2011, graduated from the
University of Pittsburgh, where he studied political science and
legal studies, and Northern Illinois University, where he earned a
master’s in communications with an emphasis in rhetorical studies.
He briefly studied media ecology in the School of Education at NYU.
He served as a graduate teaching assistant and faculty instructor at
NIU and as a teaching fellow at NYU. He worked in the area of legal
compliance for a global wealth management firm in New York.
1992 charles J. Schauerman-foley II, March 3, 2011, graduated from
Penn State Behrend with a degree in business. He worked at AIG for
twelve years and had recently been promoted to manager.
1994 John T. Koscelnik, March 18, 2011, attended St. Bonaventure
University. He was an assistant soccer coach at Gannon University
and worked at Calamari’s.
2008 Ryan W. Snyder, November 5, 2010, was employed at Telatron
Marketing as a banking service consultant and was one of the top
producers.
Mary, Queen of Prep,
pray for us!
Judge Dan Brabender ’70 &
Wrestling Coach Mike Hahesy
Knock Out Homelessness
Erie County Judge Dan Brabender put his gavel aside and Wrestling Coach Mike
Hahesy stayed off the mats to wear boxing gloves to “Knock Out Homelessness”
to benefit the Erie City Mission. The event was held in February at the Bayfront
Convention Center. Judge Brabender took on former Lightweight World Title
Contender Lou Bizzarro, while Coach Hahesy faced “John Boy” Bizzarro. Lou Bizzarro,
Jr. fought in the second cofeature bout against “Suzuki Joe” Askins.
Photos courtesy of Tropikal Studios
Nearly 650 guests turned out to see the event, which began four years ago as the
premier event of “Help the Homeless Week” marked here in Erie and Erie County the
last week in February. The week is designed
to call attention to the problems of
homelessness and poverty right
here in our own backyard. Plans
are already in the works for
“Knock Out Homelessness”
Round 5, already
considering which
community leaders
will answer the call
to step out of their
comfort zones and
into the ring.
Community
Come One…
Come All –
Prep is on
Facebook!
What does Prep look like nowadays?
How much are cafeteria lunches
now? What’s the latest on the brand
spankin’ new Events Center? What
teachers are still around at Prep?
What is enrollment? Let’s face it; a
lot of us are familiar with the social
networking site Facebook. For those
who are not, it is the largest crowdflooding social network around. Some
of us check our pages religiously. Well,
there is good news to share…Now
Prep has a Facebook page. You can
access the “Cathedral Preparatory
School” page right on Facebook.com,
or you can get to it by clicking on the
Facebook icon on Cathedral Prep’s
homepage at www.cathedral-prep.
com.
FB makes it easy to connect and stay
up to date with the latest and greatest
happenings at CP!
Post your thoughts on our wall, see
photos of our events, start a discussion
on line, suggest our Facebook page
to all of your friends and hit the like
button often!
Judge Dan Brabender ’70.
Head Wrestling coach
Mike Hahesy.
SPRING 2011
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School 17
THE LEGACy Of MR. K ’58
By Joe Viola ’95
T
his past year, after 44 years of service to Prep, Lawrence Krasinski ’58 (Mr. K) retired from teaching. Now, I’m not nearly
the historian that Mr. K is, but I can promise you that this length of service to Prep is something that is very rare (so rare, in
fact, that it has never happened before in the history of the school). It is also precisely this tenure of service that keep alumni
passionate about the school and community they love. Mr. K was, and is, everything good and right about Prep. He was constant.
He was consistent. He was there each and every day for us. His departure is one that warrants far greater levels of fanfare than it
has received for obvious and not-so-obvious reasons. First the obvious: 44 years. I challenge you to do something for 44 minutes
without feeling the effects. Mr. K’s length of service to the school and community is something that Prep has never experienced
before. There has been no one in the school’s history who has traversed the halls as often, carried as many titles and job
responsibilities, and taught as many students as he has throughout his tenure.
Mr. K was hired in 1963 to run the school’s Rifle Club; the following year Msgr. McDonald asked him to come on as a full-time
faculty member. His first of 44 consecutive one-year contracts was for $5,200, and he was asked to teach Latin, World Cultures,
and senior Government. Shortly thereafter he became the assistant Athletic Director, functioning also as the faculty manager in
charge of Athletics for a period of time. He ran the intramural program, the Kazoo Band, stayed on with the Rifle Club, became a
junior class advisor, the chair of the History department, leader of the History Club and Karate Club, and even found time to coach
one varsity baseball game. Mr. K spent the better part of eight years dedicated to all athletic programs at Prep, until he realized that
he’d prefer to devote more of his time and attention to the classroom.
’58
His transition into the classroom on a full-time basis saw him become more engrained in the academic life of the school. His
tenure had him teach World History, World Geography, World Cultures, Latin, and U.S. History, just to name a few. He even fit
in a few math classes into the early years of teaching (a fact he’s not afraid to remind Mrs. Mullen about from time to time). Mr.
K’s immersion into the academic fabric of the school coincided with Fr. Dollinger’s tenure at Prep. Mr. K solidified his passion for
teaching through the reigns of Fr. Dollinger and Fr. Hagerty. It was also during this time that he cofounded the faculty senate and
served as an ex-officio member of the Prep governing board. Aspirations of senior administrative leadership waned over time as he
grew increasingly comfortable in room 212. He recognized over time that his life mission was to be spent serving the community
as a teacher and a leader within the faculty, a decision that we’re all grateful for, teachers and students alike.
’67
Mr. K witnessed the Bergamasco, Hahn, Allison, and (now) Jabo regimes as leaders of Prep, and while it’s obvious how much
things have changed over the years, he reports, “While it’s tough to compare the past with the present as it relates to Prep (different
generations, different scenarios), building a man in spirit, mind, and body is now and has been for a long time, a very difficult task. I
took it seriously, and I know my colleagues continue to do so.”
Now, the not-so-obvious: Mr. K’s tenure at Prep, for many of us, signals a rather seismic shift in the lifeblood and culture of the
school. Certainly, the halls of Prep have been filled with powerful educators and wonderful men and women for a long time, but
there’s something different about Mr. K’s retirement, and it’s because of the group of educators that he is most closely tied to in the
long, storied history of our school – Mullen, Daeschner, Wenrick, Hahn, Del Rio, Achille, Sr. Jim, and McCormick, just to name a
few. Believe me, there are others, a cohort of educators who have been at Prep for several DECADES and who have seen the ebb
and flow of the school just as Mr. K has.
It goes without saying that the faculty legends that have graced the halls of Prep for the past half-century will slowly head toward
retirement in the coming years, and there’s wonderful symmetry in the fact that they’ll all be following Mr. K out the door. Just as
he has led the faculty into the Warner Theater for graduation for as long as anyone can remember, just as he has led the faculty to
the Polish Falcons for holiday parties, and just as he has led by example by his mere presence in the hallways – he will lead them.
And he will do so, like he does all things, quietly and with remarkable grace.
Until then, he’s given his students and his colleagues something to shoot for, both as a man and as a teacher.
Thank you for everything, Mr. K. The halls of Prep will simply not be the same without you.
’74
’83
18 SPRING 2011
’94
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
’01
’10
UP CLOSE & PERSONAL
with Chet Moffett
Guidance Counselor
Head Cross Country and
Track & Field Coach
R
eaders may be surprised to know that we
do have a few McDowell grads working
here. It’s not something we shout from
the rooftops, but it is a fact. Chet Moffett,
guidance counselor and head cross country and track & field coach
is a McDowell grad who bleeds orange and black.
Christine: How did you end up at Prep?
I was hired by Scott Grack to be an assistant track and field coach in
the fall of 1998; I was hired as the head cross country coach later that
year, and in spring of 2000 I was hired to teach in the social studies
department by Mrs. Mullen. I actually remember the conversation.
It was a Friday, and I was getting ready for practice and I heard her
call for me over the intercom. I got to her office and it was pretty
brief; “Moffett, I am having a really tough day and in about 45
minutes, I am going to need a social studies teacher for the rest of
the year. I’ve seen your resume; I need you to start on Tuesday.” My
reply, “Yes, Ma’am”. (Never say ‘no’ to Mrs. Mullen.) Christine: How many years have you worked here?
Including coaching, 12 years.
Christine: Where did you attend college?
I attended Indiana University of PA where I earned bachelor’s
degrees in psychology and sociology. I later returned to IUP to get
my master’s degree in sociology. Christine: What does your job here entail?
I am a guidance counselor responsible for the freshman class and
part of the junior class. I head up the Retention Committee. On top
of all that I am the head cross country coach at Prep; associate head
cross country coach at Villa and the head track and field coach at
Prep and Villa. Christine: What is it like to be a McDowell grad and working
here?
I graduated from McDowell in 1985 but the truth is – I really hated
McDowell. Everyone around me knew it, but back then parents
didn’t transfer their kids like they do now. When I was in high
school, I really didn’t know a lot about Prep, just stuff that people
told you and when you think about it now a lot of the rumors were
so absurd!! Honestly, I believe that many kids at McDowell know
very little about Prep and how things work around here. Don’t get
me wrong, I had some great influences at McDowell (Coach Fessler,
Coach Jakubowski, Coach Hanlon, Mr. Moore, Coach Strutt – to name
a few), but I do know that there is something special going on here,
and if you don’t give Prep a chance – you are missing out.
Christine: As a McDowell graduate, how do you think a Prep
education stands out from McDowell’s?
Understand – the McDowell I went to is long gone. Many of my
classmates have chosen to send their sons to Prep because they
see the same things that I have seen over the years. Once again,
there are strong students at McDowell; however, you cannot argue
the 98% that attend four-year college statistic. The other thing
that stands out about Cathedral Prep is brotherhood. I remember
this past summer my son Malik (Class of 2013) and I were playing
basketball with several Prep alums (Julian Blanks ’98, Joe Jones ’04,
Rausaan Powell ’96, Corey Knight ’05) and some other guys, and I
was so impressed at how they treated my son. You could see that
there was a bond amongst those young men that others in the gym
did not share. Christine: What was your most memorable moment at Prep?
In May of 2004 we had the final Metro Track and Field meet. Prep
was losing to McDowell by 55 points after the first day. We put
together a great rally and actually captured the lead with one
event to go. However, an official (who happened to work at
McDowell) made an unethical call that disqualified our team! It was
devastating! I received apologies from two PIAA officials and even
someone on the McDowell coaching staff; it still meant nothing
to me. The next day I was a chaperone for the senior retreat. I was
running a little late and when I walked into the breakfast hall at WLD
ranch – the entire senior class stopped and gave me a loud standing
ovation! I couldn’t believe it! After feeling that I had let the entire
school down, these young men picked me up in a way that I will
never forget. I doubt anyone in that hall had any idea of the impact
that moment had on me. Christine: What do you like to do in your spare time?
I am an avid reader. I try to read between 40 – 50 books / journals a
year. I’m also a movie buff, but it’s tough during the season to make
it to a lot of movies. I also like lifting weights, swimming and playing
racquetball and basketball.
Thanks Chet for your motivation, love of Prep, and your undying
commitment to our students.
SPRING 2011
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School 19
By Christine Eddy
Courtesy of Times Publishing Company
Then&Now
with Mike Mischler ’87
C
athedral Prep is proud to have
Mike Mischler back in the saddle.
Mischler, the Ramblers’ varsity
head football coach and director
of special projects, calls Prep his home. The
name “Misch” and football are synonymous
around here. What brought Mike Mischler
to Prep? Mischler, a 1987 Prep graduate, was
working in sales at Reed Manufacturing in
1995. During that time, he was coaching
freshman football at Prep. Tom Calabrese
’65 suggested that Mischler apply for the
director of marketing position that was open.
Mischler was hired as a member of the senior
administration under Fr. Bruce Allison ’54.
So why did Mischler leave Prep in the first
place? Mischler said, “There were many
reasons for leaving in 2005, but primarily it
was because I was burnt out. I reentered
the business world and quickly discovered
I missed coaching young men. Dr. Joseph
Buzanowski ’62 recruited me out to Iroquois
where I became their director of public
relations and head football coach. Although
I enjoyed my time at GE, St. Vincent, and
Iroquois, my heart has always been at Prep.
I was blessed to be given an opportunity to
return to a school that I love and cherish and
call my home.”
This year is Mischler’s twelfth
year as a full-time employee and
his sixteenth as a coach.
In his time at Prep, Mischler
has worn many hats. He’s
served as director of marketing
& development, director of
advancement, director of
major gifts, faculty member,
and now the director of special
projects. Aside from coaching,
he has three primary duties
outside of football. He is the
operations manager of the new
Cathedral Prep Events Center,
20 SPRING 2011
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
he’s responsible for the publication of all
three sports guides for the fall, winter, and
spring sports seasons and he oversees the
gift cultivation and solicitation of companies
who participate in the Commonwealth of
Pennsylvania’s Educational Improvement Tax
Credit Program.
Mischler is proud to be working for his alma
mater. “I remember getting my first Prep
business card in 1995. I did not think there
was anything better than to see my name
next to my school’s insignia. I have been and
will always be very proud of my association
with Cathedral Prep both as a student and
as an employee. I never in a million years
thought I would ever be the head football
coach here. I just wanted to be a part of the
school and have a positive effect on things
here. When I was given the opportunity
to be the varsity head coach, it was truly
a dream come true. I was a very unlikely
choice in 1998. I am just very happy that we
had the great results we did so early on in my
career. Those were unforgettable years.”
Mischler believes strongly in the school’s
mission, although, he said what matters is
the end result. “As far as I am concerned
other schools, private or public, do not come
near the quality of a Prep education. You
Instant Info Mike Mischler
Misch’s Greatest Accomplishments
Marrying my wife of 17 years – Mary Walsh Mischler.
Having five beautiful children, all of whom I am very
proud – Melissa, Katie, Michelle, Joe, and Kelly. Being
the son of Dr. Forrest and Shirley Mischler. Helping
to assist 91 of my former players to achieve their
dream of playing football at the college level.
1999 State Runner-Up.
2000 State Championship.
2000 Schutt National High School Coach of the Year.
2009 AAA State Coach of the Year.
2010 AAA State Coach of the Year.
Faculty/Staff
News&Notes
Varsity Head Football Coach
Director of Special Projects
see that fact supported every year with the
announcement of merit-based scholarships
at graduation. Prep truly gives a young man
the best start to flourish in his educational and
professional years after high school.”
Over the years Mischler recalls so many
great memories. “As a student, it was being
a captain on Prep’s first-ever District 10
championship football team. As a coach, I
have to say winning the state championship
in 2000 was a highlight to my professional
career. Those were incredible times for the
school and for me personally. I am hopeful
that we will be able to accomplish that goal
again in the near future.”
Mischler spoke about what it was like to win
a state championship. “Those years were so
remarkable in that I don’t think any of us ever
thought we knew how historic and special
the accomplishments of that team were. I am
not sure if any team in Erie will ever be able
to match the accomplishments on the whole
of that team. I can still remember when
Walker crossed the goal line for the win in
the overtime period like it was yesterday. I
remember the play that was called, the look
on the faces of the players around me, the joy
of our coaching staff…it felt great because
all the promises of hard work and dedication
were paid in full. The boys deserved to win
that game and be able to capture that feeling
forever in their hearts. Great times…great
times.”
When it comes right down to coaching,
Mischler said what is most rewarding to
him is the interaction that he has with the
players. “Seeing them develop from the time
that they enter school here to the point when
they graduate is a very rewarding process
from a coach’s perspective. As much as they
drive you nuts some days, they are also the
source of great joy for me.”
Although he is very humble about it,
Mischler was named the state’s AAA Coach
of the Year this year. Prep’s football team
advanced to the final four for the first time
since 2000. Sitting at one point in the
season at 3-4, Prep rallied with six straight
wins and led Bishop McDevitt 21-3 in the
third quarter of the state semifinals before
falling 24-21. Mischler also helped the team
overcome a slew of injuries that decimated
them throughout the season.
When Mischler does have some spare time,
he enjoys spending it with his wife, Mary
Walsh Mischler, and his children: Melissa,
Katie, Michelle, Joe and Kelly.
Congratulations to
Nancy Bird, Director of
Constituent Relations
for being chosen as the
winner of the “Most
Inspirational Face of
Women 2010”. Bird was
selected as one of the top five finalists for
the title at the For Women Only Expo in
October. She was nominated by Prep/Villa
parent Janet Zegarelli for constantly going
the extra mile in everything she does.
Congratulations to Sr.
James Francis Mulligan.
She was honored in
October at Gannon
University’s Annual
Distinguished Alumni
Dinner; Mulligan received
the Monsignor Wilfrid J. Nash Principles
of Christian Conduct Award.
Congratulations to
Jacob Malec and
his wife, Jennifer.
William Gabriel
Malec was born on
January 10, 2011.
He weighed 7 lbs. 11oz. William joins big
brother Kyle, age 3.
Sue Noonan, Athletic
Office Manager became
a grandmother for the
first time on February
1, 2011. Her daughter,
Cara (Noonan) Braendel
VMA ’01 and son-in-law
Dennis ’01 welcomed
their first child Dennis Charles III. He
weighed 7 lbs. 15 oz.
Teacher Appreciation Dinner
T
hree teachers from Cathedral Prep were honored for their
years of service and dedication to teaching. The 2011 Teacher
Appreciation Dinner was May 6 at the Zem Zem Shrine Club.
Congratulations to the following teachers who were recognized.
Mr. Rick
Grychowski ’70
35 years
Mr. Chris
Grychowski ’88
10 years
Mr. Mike
Flanagan
10 years
SPRING 2011
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School 21
S P e c I A L
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Seniors Sean Bloomstine and Joe West.
Legacy Gala 2011 “Emb
A
Villa and Prep lockers.
Seafood station.
One of the featured live auction
items-a Crosley Radio ijuke jukebox.
n astonishing 440 guests attended this year’s
Legacy Gala appropriately themed, “Embrace the
Mission,” as Prep and Villa continued to enjoy
their second year in partnering in education. The Gala,
which is the premier fundraising event for Cathedral Prep
and Villa Maria Academy, was held on April 16 at the Bayfront
Convention Center. The Gala raised over $270,000 making it
an all-time record breaker!
Two distinguished individuals from each school were
honored at the event. Cathedral Prep Distinguished
Alumnus Fr. Tom Fialkowski ’58 along with Cathedral Prep
Distinguished Faculty Member Joann Maxwell Mullen were
inducted into the President’s Hall of Fame. Villa Maria
Academy Distinguished Alumna Peg Sweny Bly ’70 and
Sr. Margaret Ann Hardner ’49 were also inducted into the
President’s Hall of Fame. All inductees were recognized for
their personal accomplishments and their dedication to the
mission of Cathedral Prep and Villa Maria Academy.
The night was a first-class affair. Cathedral Prep students
were dressed to the nines in tuxedos and greeted the guests.
Several Villa students in cocktail dresses helped out with the
jewelry raffle and silent auction areas. They had a great time
interacting with the auction attendees who believe in the
mission of Prep and Villa.
Guests enjoyed different food stations and delectable
desserts while bidding on over 250 items in the silent
auction. The live auction boasted 19 items and featured a
two-year lease on a Mazda3, a Crosley iJuke Jukebox, badges
for two to the 2012 Sunday round at the Masters including
overnight accommodations for Saturday and Sunday, two
Villa Maria Academy student ambassadors: L-R: Alex
Dudzinski ’11, Paige Carlotti ’11, Ellen Zegarelli ’11, Hanna
Thayer ’12, Mary McCormick ’11, Kelsey Weibel ’11, CamTu
Nguyen’11, Shannon Arnold ’11, Delia Thayer ’11, Emily
Carlin’11, Nicole Shellenbarger ’11, Kayley Jones’11.
22 SPRING 2011
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
S P e c I A L
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Lynne & Rob Doyle ’73.
Legacy Gala 2011 at the Bayfront
Convention Center.
brace the Mission” – A Resounding Success
Florida vacation home getaways and TaylorMade golf clubs
with custom staff bag. The Cathedral Prep Jazz band, under
the direction of Mr. Jake Malec, donated their time to the Gala
and entertained guests for most of the evening.
Dahlkemper Jewelry Connection (Ed ‘73 & Christine
Dahlkemper) graciously donated a 14K white gold 1-carat
diamond journey pendant hanging from an 18” sparkle chain
valued at $1,500. Raffle tickets were available for $20 for the
chance to win the dazzling necklace.
Allburn Florist did an amazing job in decorating in Prep
and Villa colors. Mystic blue orchids, orange and white day
lilies, birds of paradise and gladiolas galore filled the room to
make for a breathtaking view.
There were several highlights to the evening. The four
honorees humbly accepted their awards. During the live
auction, guests were given the opportunity to bid to “Fund
the Vision” and sponsor a student which resulted in $60,000
raised for tuition assistance. The most sought-after item
in the live auction was the opportunity to have dinner with
honoree, Mrs. Joann Maxwell Mullen, which sold for $11,200!
The proceeds from the auction are used to keep Prep and
Villa’s tuition within reach of Erie area families. The evening
brought many Prep and Villa supporters together to celebrate
and to continue to support the mission of Prep and Villa,
all while having fun, raising funds and enjoying each other’s
company. Many thanks to Kathy Grisier, director of special
events, and the countless people who made the 2011 Legacy
Gala such a tremendous success. Mark your calendar for next
year’s Legacy Gala which will take place on April 21.
Jack ’01 & Kristy Jamison.
Mike ’75 & Tina Donikowski ’77
(VMA).
Tim Bates, Danielle Bly Bates ’06 (VMA), Tom Bly, Peg
Sweny Bly ’70 (VMA), Jon Bly ’08 and Ted Bly’05.
Cathedral Prep student ambassadors: L-R: Sean Bloomstine ’11,
Joe West ’11, Xavier Augustyniak ’11, Mate Jurkovic ’11, Mike
Knoll ’11, Delton Williams ’13, Jeffrey Britton ’11, Eddie Theiss
’11 and Nik Zaphiris ’11.
Villa Maria Academy student ambassadors: Seniors Emily Carlin,
Nicole Shellenbarger and Julia Gromacki.
SPRING 2011
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S P e c I A L
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President Fr. Scott Jabo with inductee Sr. Margaret
Ann Hardner, SSJ ’49 (VMA).
President Fr. Scott Jabo with inductee Peg Sweny Bly ’70.
Aimee & Boo Hagerty ’80 and Jackie Giacobello
Nicolia ’80 (VMA) & her husband, Carl ’80.
24 SPRING 2011
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
President Fr. Scott Jabo with inductee Joann Maxwell
Mullen ’57 (VMA).
CamTu Nguyen ’11 (VMA), Tony Tebaldi ’11, Rachael Passauer ’11
(VMA), Connor Edgar ’11 and Kayley Jones ’11 (VMA).
Dennis ’78 and
Tara Miller
Prischak ’91
(VMA).
S P e c I A L
e v e N T S
Jimmy Bufalino ’13 stands with his Grandmother, Louise Uhlman,
and his mother, Diana Bufalino.
President Fr. Scott Jabo with inductee Fr. Tom Fialkowski ’58.
The Fourth Annual
Mother-Son Brunch –
A Success
T
he Mary Queen of Prep Society put on the fourth annual
Mother-Son Eucharistic Brunch in March. Approximately 270
guests attended the event. Mass was celebrated by President
Fr. Scott Jabo in the H. David Bowes Auditorium. During Mass,
a special Mother-Son blessing was led by Rennae DiRaimo and
her son Dominic ’11. Following Mass, Chef Frank Cirillo and his
staff put on a delicious brunch. It was a beautiful day, and it gave
Prep students the opportunity to share the day with their moms,
grandmothers, sisters, aunts and family friends and remind them
of how very special they are. Thanks to Principal Sr. Claudia
Dombrowski and the Mary Queen of Prep Society for making the
day a truly memorable event.
Joann Mullen is awestruck during bidding for dinner
with her at the Erie Club, which sold for $11,200!
Mary Feikles stands
with her twins boys,
Cody ’13 (left) and
Brandon ’13 (right).
The Mother-Son Blessing
was led by Dominic DiRaimo
’11 and his mother, Rennae.
LTC Mark Becker ‘74, Dr. Rick Tomassi ‘73 and Mark Wisinski ‘74.
SPRING 2011
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School 25
S P e c I A L
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Janet Zegarelli, Harvest Gala
chairperson, and her daughter, Ellen ’11
(VMA).
VMA Director
of Admissions
and emcee
Kathy Jones
Roach ’84
(VMA) and
Penny Jones
’61 (VMA).
Chinese auction.
Giovanni Cararra ’13 and his
mother, Tami.
Rosemary Campbell Kloecker ’85 (VMA),
Dolores Campbell and Renee Kloecker.
Cathedral Prep Principal Sister Claudia Dombrowski, SSJ,
President Father Scott Jabo and Villa Maria Academy
Principal Sister Mary Drexler, SSJ.
Harvest Gala 2010 Draws the Largest Crowd Ever!
Nearly 800 women came together for Harvest Gala 2010 to
celebrate the camaraderie of women who support two exceptional
Catholic educational institutions. Many mothers, grandmothers,
faculty, staff, alumni and friends gathered to represent Cathedral
Prep and Villa Maria Academy. The event took place at the Bayfront
Convention Center on October 6.
With over 100 elaborate baskets in the Chinese auction, women
had plenty to choose from. The baskets included everything from
Vera Bradley, to wine, to jewelry. During dinner, women sat on
the edge of their chairs waiting eagerly for their name to be called.
The attendees were spoiled with a full-course sit-down dinner,
dessert and coffee.
Aside from the Chinese auction, there were several chances to win
something. Two bangle-style Chamilia bracelets were raffled off,
one in Prep colors, which included a “son” bead, the other in
Villa colors, which included a “daughter” bead. Also raffled was a
unique ancient Roman coin pendant with diamond accent done
in white and yellow 14K gold.
Seniors Xavier Candela (CP) and Paige Carlotti (VMA) spoke to
the audience about their experiences at both schools over the
years and thanked the women for their support.
Special thanks to the many who volunteered their time and talent
in organizing the event, especially: Janet Zegarelli, who served as
this year’s chairperson and Prep parent of two sons, Martin ’12
and Hogan ’13, and a Villa daughter, Ellen ’11; Chrissie Simmons,
(son Jeffrey ’12) for chairing the raffle baskets; Tami Carrara,
26 SPRING 2011
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
son (Giovanni ’13) and Kelly Titus (son Colton Titus ’14) for
organizing the jewelry raffles; Linda Spinelli (son Adam ’12) for
handling reservations; and Prep dad Joe Kloecker (son Andy ’13),
who organized the male volunteers.
Once again, Allburn Florist did an amazing job transforming the
room into a beautiful fall escapade with pumpkins and vibrant
flowers.
Women enjoyed a classy evening out. Special thanks to everyone
who played a part in making Harvest Gala a tremendous success.
Mark your calendars now for this highly sought-after event.
Harvest Gala 2011 will be held at the Bayfront Convention Center
on October 6.
A sampling of some of the delectable delights at the bake sale.
S P e c I A L
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22nd
Rambler Golf Classic Swings Into Its 22nd Year!
W
hispering Woods Golf Course, with its picturesque landscape and rolling hills, will again be the host for the Rambler
Golf Classic. Cathedral Prep cordially invites you to the twenty-second annual event, which has grown into one of
the most-anticipated events on the Prep calendar. Clear your schedule for this year’s tournament, to be held on Wednesday, June 29, 2011. Cathedral Prep alumni, parents and friends will gather for a great day of competition, camaraderie,
prizes, food and refreshments.
The Rambler Golf Classic holds great traditions among the brotherhood of Cathedral Prep and among the families within. The outing serves as an annual meeting spot for groups of classmates, father/son combos, and blood brothers. The
foursomes often include regulars like Chuck Dahlkemper ‘52 and his son Dan ’75 (who treats his dad to the tournament for
Father’s Day), Jeffrey Kenny and his son Jeff ‘04, and Chuck Agresti ’60 and his sons David ’87 and Michael ‘90. The Dudenhoeffer, Ebach, Fatica, Mifsud, Ott, Patsy, and Teed brothers often make it an annual family affair as well.
At the upcoming event, we will honor a Rambler Golf Classic “repeat offender,” John Doyle, Class of ’46. John has been
a participant in many, many Rambler Golf Classics in addition to being a great champion for the school. John typically
shares a golf cart with his son, Rob, Class of ‘73, adding them to our list of “infamous” father and son duos!
In an effort to improve the Rambler Golf Classic, we surveyed many of our past participants. Although it is not possible
to please all, we listened to our constituents and took note of the responses. As a result, this year’s outing will offer “a la
carte” selections to accommodate golfers’ requests. Participants can choose to simply show up and spend the day on the
golf course or can enjoy lunch and dinner as well. A Nike All-Day Polo with “CP” logo will be offered at a discount if the
Rambler Golf Classic participant is interested in one. It’s up to you! With all this new flexibility, we must warn you…no
game-day decisions or changes will be permitted (that is, no extra steaks on hand if you didn’t make a dinner reservation)!
The Rambler Golf Classic has a history of selling out quickly, so please take the time to organize your foursome and register as soon as possible. Also, as always, your sponsorship is vital to the continued success of the tournament. The deadline
for reservations and payment is June 3, 2011. Your participation in the tournament, whether as a player or as a sponsor,
brand new or back for another one, will help us to continue our mission of
developing men of vision in spirit, mind, and body.
For a reservation form or more information regarding the Rambler Golf Classic,
contact Nancy Bird at nbird@cathedral-prep.com or 814-453-7737 x2293 OR
visit www.cathedral-prep.com / Advancement / Rambler Golf Classic.
We look forward to seeing you at Whispering Woods on June 29, 2011!
Rambler Golf Classic
2011 A la Carte Menu
Golf, On-Course Refreshments
and Prizes
$85
Picnic Lunch
$10
Steak Dinner
$25
Nike All-Day Polo
$30
ALL-INCLUSIVE PACKAGE $150
SPRING 2011
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School 27
Wuthering
Heights
The cast of Cathedral Prep and Villa Maria Academy’s production of Emily Brontë’s classic novel, Wuthering Heights.
This January, the
Cathedral Prep and Villa
Maria Academy MVP
Program brought Emily
Brontë’s classic novel,
Wuthering Heights, to the
Villa stage. The play tells
the story of a reckless
traveler, Mr. Lockwood
(Benny Mitchell, ’12), who
spends a stormy night at
Wuthering Heights, the
house of the mysterious
Heathcliff (Nick Burch,
’13). Lockwood turns to Nelly Dean (Maggie Hoag, ’12), a
servant in the neighboring mansion of Thrushcross Grange, to
tell him of Heathcliff’s life. Nelly recounts the story of young
Heathcliff (Andy Howland, ’14), who was orphaned as a child
and brought to Wuthering Heights by the kindly Mr. Earnshaw.
Earnshaw’s son, Hindley (Matt Grisier, ’12), immediately
despised Heathcliff, while his daughter, Catherine (Hannah
Kirschner, ’14), quickly fell in love with him. When Earnshaw
died, Hindley took over the house and demoted Heathcliff to
the status of a servant. Catherine realized that she could not
bring herself to marry him, as it would degrade her. She instead
decided to wed the wealthy Edgar Linton (Corey Mulvin, ’13).
Heathcliff disappeared for many years; when he returned,
he was educated, well-dressed, and bent on getting revenge.
He entered a loveless marriage with Linton’s sister, Isabella
28 SPRING 2011
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
Edgar (Corey Mulvin, ‘13), Catherine (Allison Gens, ‘13 VMA), and
Heathcliff (Nick Burch, ‘13) engage in a tense discussion about
Heathcliff’s mysterious past.
(Kelly Fries, ’13), in order to secure the deeds to Thrushcross
Grange. Heathcliff’s servants – Joseph (Adrian Fritzke, ’14),
Mary (Megan Davis, ’11), and Zillah (Elizabeth Nawrocki, ’12)
– and Hindley’s son, Hareton (Chris Fessler, ’11), feared him.
Cathy Linton (Emily McGovern, ’13), Edgar’s daughter, was
forced by Heathcliff to marry his sickly son, Linton Heathcliff.
The play was filled with dramatic performances and exciting
staging courtesy of director Fr. Mike DeMartinis. Audiences
were amazed by the young performers’ ability to handle
the complexity of the characters and the dialogue. Overall,
Wuthering Heights made for another fantastic addition to Prep
and Villa’s ever-expanding list of spectacular stage productions.
Pippin By Chris Fessler ’11
Villa Maria Academy and Cathedral
Prep’s production of Pippin, brought
a slightly modern twist to the classic
Broadway musical. The Story of
Pippin unfolds as the Leading Player
(Drevell Showers ‘12) takes Pippin
(Chris Fessler ‘11) on a journey to
find something meaningful in his life.
Pippin tries everything possible, taking
his chances in war, trying his moves
with the ladies, and even taking a stab
at being king, but nothing seems to
satisfy him. Pippin does finally find
something meaningful when he falls in
love with a widow, Catherine (Nathalie
Rahner ’12) and her son Theo (Andrew
Howland ’14). But even love did not
fully satisfy him. The Leading Player
then shows Pippin the magic and
meaning of the glorious Finale.
Pippin was directed and choreographed
by Mrs. Almi Clerkin ‘81 (VMA). In
the past Almi was the director of many
of Villa’s shows, and it was such an
honor to have her back on the VMA
stage. The vocal director and director
of the orchestra, Mr. Andrew Alesso,
helped bring the magical music of
Pippin to life.
Being part of the cast of Pippin was truly
an honor. Every member of the cast
gave all the energy they had on stage,
and it brought the show to a completely
different level. As Pippin, I was able to
interact with the majority of the cast,
and each member truly understood their
part in the story of Pippin. As Leading
Player, Drevell Shower ’12 showcased
his amazing vocal talents as he guided
Pippin on his journey to find fulfillment.
Tyler Bentze ’11 highlighted his amazing
theatrical talents as the powerful,
tyrannical, and neglecting father of
Pippin as King Charlemagne. Rachel
Passauer ’11 displayed her fantastic
dancing talents as the beautiful, crafty,
devious, and ordinary housewife as
Fastrata. Amy Boxer ’11 showed off her
incredible vocal and acting ability as the
wise and wonderful loving grandmother
of Pippin, Berthe. Nathalie Rahner ‘12
demonstrated her marvelous acting
and singing talents, as Catherine,
Pippin’s love interest. Andrew Howland
‘14, showcased his comedic
acting ability as Theo, the son of
Catherine; he and his duck were a
real hoot. The whole show was such an
amazing experience, I cannot possibly
decide on my favorite scene or moment
in the show. I will forever remember
this show.
Pippin (Chris Fessler ’11) enjoys the
company of Katie Hoag ‘13 and Ellise
Chase ’12, hoping he can find meaning
and fulfillment.
MVP News
The following jazz band students
performed at the grand opening at
the McDonald’s at 5th and Sassafras in
October: John Gallagher ’11, Joshua
Golden ’14, Ryan Kramer ’13, Ryan
Malaspina ’13, Anton Olson ’11, Patrick
Spizarny ’13 and Matt Zimmermann
’13.
SPRING 2011
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School 29
Lord of the Flies Cast
Meets OLP’s Cast
Over their Christmas break, Cathedral Prep grads and
members of the cast of “Lord of the Flies” took the time to
teach Our Lady of Peace 7th and 8th graders who put on
the same show in January. The show was done at Prep last
spring. The Ramblers visited OLP two days over break to
help the students with some guidance. Fr. Mike DeMartinis,
Director of Theatre Arts at Prep, arranged the visits and
directed the show at OLP where he is parochial vicar.
Pictured with OLP students are members of the Class of 2010:
Zack Bird, John Trucilla, Phil Hampy, John Gromacki, Nick Lubin,
and John Cordier.
Curtains
By Matthew Grisier ’12
Cathedral Prep and Villa
Maria Academy’s production
of Curtains, the 2007 hit
Broadway musical, marked
the regional premiere of
the show, in keeping with
their tradition of bringing
exciting shows to Erie for the
first time. Curtains is set in
Boston. The year is 1959, and
the first out-of-town preview
of a brand new show, Robbin’ Hood of the Old West, is being
performed onstage at the Colonial Theatre. The show’s
talentless star, Jessica Cranshaw (Ellen Zegarelli, ’11 VMA),
mysteriously collapses onstage during the finale, causing
the cast to rejoice at the prospect of their release from their
contracts with the horrible show. However, their celebrations
cease when a local police detective, Lt. Frank Cioffi (Matt
Grisier, ’12), arrives and tells the cast that Jessica has been
murdered – and a member of the cast or crew is responsible!
Curtains was directed by the fearlessly clever Fr. Mike
DeMartinis, choreographed by the endlessly creative Mrs.
Carolyn McIntyre, and conducted by the always supportive
Mr. Jacob Malec. The MVP Program also welcomed
multitalented vocal director/pianist Mr. Andrew Alesso to its
ranks this year. The professionalism of the entire crew, from
director to stagehand, inspired everyone onstage to work
harder and to constantly reach for their best.
Working with the cast of Curtains was a complete privilege
for me. Never before have I seen a cast more willing to take
on the challenge of a show’s material, nor have I seen a
cast execute a show so perfectly and precisely with each
30 SPRING 2011
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
The Cast of Curtains performs the show-stopping number from Act
Two, “In the Same Boat.”
performance. As Cioffi, I had the opportunity to take control
of the show’s action and also to stand back and watch my
fellow performers shine in their roles. As producer Carmen
Bernstein, Amy Boxer ’11 (VMA) stopped the show each
night with her Act Two number, “It’s A Business.” Sean
Bloomstine ’11 showed off his fantastic comedic skills in the
role of flamboyant director Chris Belling; it was often difficult
to keep a straight face while onstage with him! Ellise Chase
’12 displayed her beautiful but powerful singing voice in the
role of lyricist Georgia Hendricks, and Nate Kapsar proved
himself to be an exciting new talent in the role of composer
Aaron Fox. Antonia Flamini ’13 skillfully aroused suspicion
in audience members with her spot-on take on chorus girl
Niki Harris. Christina Cacchione ’13 became a major comic
presence in the show as the sweet but conceited dancer,
Bambi Bernét. Chris Fessler ’11 was given the opportunity to
showcase his dancing talents as choreographer Bobby Pepper.
If I had the space, I would write lines and lines about every
last member of this cast; everyone deserves their moment
to shine for their hard work. When asked, I generally sum
up my experience with the show by referring to a line from
the Act One song, “Show People”, “It’s an honor and a joy to
be in show business.” It truly was an honor and a joy to be
a part of Curtains. In the end, that’s all an actor could ever
hope for.
THE MeN OF PReP
Peter’s
Presents
Toy Drive
L-R: Chris Bleggi ’12, Giovanni Carrara ’13 and Sean Bloomstine ’11.
Beard Week – A Hairy Situation
F
or the second time in history, Cathedral Prep students graced the hallowed halls of
the building with beards intact. The Student Government organized the second
annual “Beard Week.” Prior to Christmas break, students were able to purchase a “Beard
Pass” for a minimum donation of $5. Students who purchased passes did not have to
shave for the first week following Christmas break. Approximately 55 Prep students
participated. All the money raised went to Shriners Hospital. Over $300 was raised.
Andrew Clark ’12 was deemed “Winner of Beard Week.” He received a Prep t-shirt.
Prep at Buffalo Wild Wings Benefits
Shriners Hospital
T
he Cathedral Prep community gathered in
January to eat hot wings for a good cause.
The fundraiser was held for two nights at Buffalo
Wild Wings. The freshmen and sophomores
gathered on the first night, followed up the juniors
and seniors the following evening. fifteen percent
of each bill was donated to Shriners Hospital. The
fundraiser was organized by Student Government.
Collectively between Beard Week and Buffalo Wild
Wings, $620 was raised.
Annually, students and staff
from Cathedral Preparatory
School purchase gifts
for the Peter’s Presents
Project to make a child’s
Christmas brighter. Gifts are
returned to the Theology
office and organized by
Prep’s Students Against
Destructive Decisions
(SADD) in conjunction
with St. Peter’s Women’s
Association.
Toys are put into family
bags for the families and
delivered straight to the
homes of the families in
need. SADD also shares the
toys with the Prep Key Club
for the Annual Christmas
Meal. This year, 850 toys
and article of clothes were
donated; children were
blessed with gifts from this
ministry!
Student Government members
present a check for $620 to Mr.
Bob Howden of Shriners Hospital.
L-R: Faculty Student Government
Advisor Mr. Corey Ferraro ’97, Kevin
Grisier ’14, Matt Grisier ’12, Student
Government president, Adam
Blazek ’11, Mr. Bob Howden, Ben
Davis ’12, Alex Brzozowski ’12, and
Mario Nicolia’12.
Chris Konzel ’13 shows off his shirt that he
rightfully earned after eating some “Blazin’”
hot wings.
SPRING 2011
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School 31
THE MeN OF PReP
“When I was hungry you gave me food.”
~ Matthew 25:34-35
Student Government
Organizes Successful
Needy Item Drive
I
Members of SADD and Student Government were recognized for their
efforts of collecting food at the Second Harvest Food Bank at the 2010
Bread Box Awards this fall. L-R: Joseph West ’11, Paul Votjek ’11,
Dominic DiRaimo ’11, Christopher Capotis ’11, and Adam Blazek ’11.
Over 1,800 Pounds of
Food Collected for Food
Bank
n the month of December, Student Government organized a
Needy Item Drive. All items benefited Second Harvest food
Bank. Each class was responsible for a different category of
items to bring in. freshmen brought in baby products, while
sophomores collected household cleaning supplies. The junior
class was in charge of paper products, and the seniors brought
in health and beauty aids. When all was said and done, the
junior class came through with the highest rate of participation.
A total of 416 pounds of items was collected.
E
ach year Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD)
organizes and spends the three weeks before Thanksgiving
collecting food to lend a hand to those families in our
community who need a little extra to celebrate our nation’s
holiday. Students and staff help others by donating nonperishable food items.
This year over 1,875 pounds of food were collected for the
Second Harvest food Bank. Chris Bleggi ’12 (SADD president)
and comoderators, Mr. Brian Markley and Mr. Antonio
francisco Del Rio, were happy that members of the Prep
community generously gave to the Second Harvest. Through
the kindness of the Prep Community, many members of the Erie
community were able to partake in a Thanksgiving feast.
L-R: Kevin Bogniak ’14, Kevin Grisier ’14, Ben Slomski ’12, Ben Davis’12,
Matt Grisier ’12, Nick Unger ’12, Andy Wilcox ’14, Julian Lombardi ’14,
Lucas Buscek ’14, Sean Culver ’12, Dominic Flamini ’11, Troy Kelly ’13.
Prep & Villa Students March
for Life
S
32 SPRING 2011
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
tudents from Villa and Prep took to the streets of Washington,
D.C. to “March for Life” on January 23 and 24th. Both groups
of students joined forces with people from all over the world to
gather to be a voice for the voiceless, including; the unborn, those
living in poverty, the abused and anyone who has been marginalized
by the rest of society. January 22 marked the anniversary of the
landmark 1973 Roe v. Wade decision by the U.S. Supreme Court that
legalized abortion through our country. Prep and Villa students will
continue to take a stand for life when the lives of innocent people are
increasingly threatened.
THE MeN OF PReP
Seniors Qualify for Appointment to the U.S.
Air Force Academy By Lt. Col. Brian McGrain
C
athedral Prep’s class of 2011 continues a long-standing tradition of graduates presenting their record
of achievement in an attempt to secure admission to one of this nation’s military service academies.
The four-year education at the United States Air force Academy in Colorado Springs, CO or one of the
other academies is conservatively valued at more than $400,000. Annually, the academies at West Point,
Annapolis, and Colorado Springs are ranked in the top 25 of all universities and colleges in America for their
academic rigor and preparation of their graduates. West Point at #4 this year is a step ahead of Massachusetts
Institute of Technology (MIT), and the Air force Academy at #11 is just one place behind yale University in
the 2010 rankings conducted by Forbes Magazine.
This year, two outstanding students completed the strenuous
application process, completed grueling medical and physical
fitness assessments, and received nominations from former U.S.
House of Representatives member Kathy Dahlkemper. They now
are considered “fully qualified” for appointment to the United
States Air force Academy. Seniors Patrick Cooper and Geoffrey
Novakowski are poised to join more than 20 other prior Prep
graduates since 1999 heading off to serve their country while
receiving an unparalleled educational opportunity. Both Pat and
Geoff are members of Prep’s Air force Junior ROTC program,
sharing the duties of corps commander during their senior year.
Of note, Prep graduate Andrew Parker, ’06 will graduate and be
commissioned from the United States Naval Academy, this year
joining older brothers Robert, ’00, David, ’02, and Brydon, ’04
serving their country proudly in uniform. And also, Mykola
Kosenko, ’07 will graduate and be commissioned from the United
States Merchant Marine Academy. Mykola’s brother Oleh, ’04 also
graduated from the Merchant Marine Academy and is currently
serving as an officer in the Marine Corps.
The spiritual, academic, and athletic traditions that have shaped
the lives of so many young men at Prep are truly represented by the
continuing efforts of young men such as Pat and Geoff and those
who will follow.
Seniors Patrick Cooper and Geoffrey Novakowski.
SPRING 2011
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School 33
THE MeN OF PReP
Catholic Schools Week
2011
A
+ for America Catholic Schools was the theme of
this year’s Catholic Schools Week (Jan. 30 to feb. 5).
Cathedral Prep scheduled many activities to celebrate the
week. To kick off the week, Quarter Sessions were held on
Monday.
On Tuesday, meetings were held for the upcoming Outreach
Day. This year’s Outreach Day took place on April 13. More
than 550 Cathedral Prep students along with faculty and staff
members took to the streets on a “school day” to help serve
others in the community.
L-R: Seniors Patrick Cooper, Joe West, Austin
George, Geoff Novakowski, Zack Kuhn and John
Wagner.
Packages for the
Troops
Cathedral Prep’s Air Force JROTC recently
completed a project for the troops deployed
overseas. They sent out packages and letters.
Thanks to the generous support of the Sons
of the American Legion, American Legion
Riders, and the American Legion Auxiliary
organizations from American
Legion Post 571 in Wesleyville,
more than 350 letters were placed
in 20 packages of necessities.
Spearheading the project was
Cadet Major Austin George ’12 and
other members of the senior class
of cadets.
An afternoon assembly was held on Wednesday regarding
Auto Safety. Michele and Jimmy Cummings spoke at the
assembly. Their daughter Carli died this past summer and
was not wearing a seatbelt. The other three individuals in the
vehicle were not wearing their seatbelts, but they lived. The
assembly was very moving.
Mass for the feast of St. Blaise was held on Thursday, which
was also Teacher/Staff Appreciation Day. faculty and staff
were treated to a special luncheon sponsored by Key Club.
Chef frank Cirillo and his staff prepared a gourmet meal.
Students served faculty, staff and administration.
friday was a student dress-down day. Pizza Hut pizza was
served at lunch. Students enjoyed desserts from Holland’s
Dairy Queen.
During the week, Chef frank Cirillo and his staff prepared the
top four soups and the top four lunches.
Mr. Jean Marc-Baier, Sean Bloomstine ’11, Anton Olson and Sr. James Francis Mulligan, SSJ
at the Teacher/Staff Appreciation Luncheon.
34 SPRING 2011
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
THE MeN OF PReP
Prep & Villa Students
Trade Books for a Day
to Help Community
I
n April, the student bodies from Cathedral Prep and
Villa Maria Academy, along with faculty and staff,
took to the streets to help out the Erie community
during the annual “Community Outreach Day.”
Cathedral Prep Director of Campus Ministry Brandon
Wiley and Villa Maria Academy Campus Minister Sr.
Mary Ellen Plumb spearheaded the effort.
Over 60 groups met at various locations throughout
Erie to spend the day helping out. Activities ranged
from helping children and assisting the elderly to
outdoor clean-up.
The Prep and Villa community is proud to be able
to provide their time and energy to serve others via
numerous service projects benefiting the Erie area.
SPRING 2011
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School 35
THE MeN OF PReP
Students of Spirit, Vision and Courage
By Sr. Mary Drexler, SSJ
Principal, Villa Maria Academy
W
hen I ponder the theme, “Spirit, Vision, and Courage,” I am immediately drawn to two young adults who are members
of their respective senior classes. Just recently these two young people went far beyond the norm and, in my opinion,
deserve to be called people of spirit, vision, and courage. I am referring to Seniors Nicole Shellenbarger from Villa and Adam
Tome from Prep. They have reached out beyond themselves and inserted themselves into the lives of others. first, at Christmas
time, they decided that they would use their Christmas money to Adopt a Family rather than buy presents for each other.
Truly they understood the meaning of Christmas…giving and sharing…knowing that they have more than enough.
The second thing they are a part of is still going on. As soon as they had heard about the tsunami in Japan, they began to
formulate ideas on how they could make a difference and raise some money to assist with relief efforts in Japan. Currently, they
are selling t-shirts that say “Do Something…Save a Life”. The proceeds from this sale, along with a benefit concert in May, will
be presented to Mrs. Mary Maxwell, Director of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Erie.
It takes a great deal of spirit, vision and courage to do what these two young people have done. Recognizing that the needs
of others far surpass their own is reason to recognize them. It’s what we, at Villa and Prep, are about when we say that we are
educating our young people to be a part of a global world where we reach out to the neighbor, whether the neighbor is in our
own backyard or in another country.
News&Notes
STUDENT
christopher Braun ’12
Congratulations to christopher Braun
’12 and Austin George ’11 for their outstanding Veterans Day essays. Braun won
in the high school division, and George
received honorable mention. Both students’ essays displayed an exceptional
appreciation for our nation’s veterans.
More than 200 local 7th and 8th grade
students and JROTC high school students
participated in this year’s Veterans Day
Essay Contest. Students were asked to
write about what it means to serve their
country, and all essays expressed a heartfelt thanks to our nation’s heroes.
Austin George ’11
36 SPRING 2011
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
Congratulations to Michael Kibbe ’13 for winning the Prep/ Villa
Christmas card contest. The annual Christmas card contest was
started in 2002 by Mr. Jim Sabol
’66 and has been a Christmas
tradition. Students entered the contest
through Mr. Doug Vicary’s art class. Kibbe did a great job in creating a beautiful
nativity scene for the 2010 Christmas
card. Thanks to everyone who participated and submitted artwork. Congratulations, Michael!
Michael Prenovitz ’13 ranked in the
top 2% of German students in the country this year. He took the National German Test and scored in the 98th percentile!
Michael Kibbe ’13
prep
athletics
Prep Product Honored
by Big Ten
After an outstanding Prep golf career that saw him qualify
for the PIAA state championships three times, as well as
being a part of teams that finished first, second and fourth
in the state, Greg Podufal ’11 is accustom to being in the
spotlight. He became the first Rambler in 26 years to win
back-to-back District 10 championships, those coming as a
junior and a few months ago as a senior.
Cathedral Prep grad
Brendan Barber’08 was
honored earlier this
year for his work in the
classroom by the Big
Ten Conference. Barber
was one of 32 football
players at Northwestern
University who were
tabbed Academic All-Big
Ten by the conference.
Barber is a junior at
Northwestern and is a
political science major.
A wide receiver, Brendan
played in five games this
past season and made
two catches for 17 yards
as the Wildcats went 7-6.
In becoming one of the best golfers in Prep history, Greg
was rewarded with an even bigger prize: a golf scholarship
to Georgetown
University. In the
picture Podufal
is signing his
scholarship with
head coach Jim
Sertz ’61 at his side.
Podufal hopes to be
a key member of the
Hoyas’ golf lineup
come this fall.
Photo credit to Stephen J. Carrera
Podufal ’11 Headed to
Georgetown University
on Golf Scholarship
Former Rambler Polo Players Reunite at College
Tournament
In September, Prep alumni water polo players
reunited at a collegiate tournament at Grove
City College, after a game between Penn State
University (main campus) and Pitt. (PSU won the
game 12-6). L to R: Jon Weibel ‘09 (Pitt), Aaron
Merski ‘09 (Pitt), Chad Doucette ‘10 (Pitt), Andrew
Bauman ‘07 (Penn State), George Krakowski ‘08
(Pitt).
The men were competitive and enjoyed being
together again. There was plenty of camaraderie
after the game!
SPRING 2011
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School 37
prep
athletics
Cathedral Prep’s New Hockey Limo Bus
Interesting Facts about the
CP Hockey Limo Bus:
• It made a trip across the country
from San Francisco. It took 36
hours to get here, transported on a
lowboy flatbed across the country.
• It was owned by Limo Company
and was used to transport
employees of Google and yahoo.
• Company it came from owns 300+
limo buses and sells them as soon
as they turn three years old.
• Bus is equipped with CD and DVD
player, 4 flat screen TVs, stereo
sound throughout.
• High back leather luxury reclining
seats.
• Air-ride suspension.
• Being set up for high speed Internet
access.
• Helps the hockey team manage
their transportation costs, since it is
a club sport.
A very special thanks to Pete and Dana Zaphiris (parents of Nikolaos ’11 and
Alec ’12), Great Lakes and Erie Insurance for donating Prep’s newest vehicle
for transporting students. The black limo bus is primarily used for hockey,
but all teams use it. It’s not your typical “run of the mill” bus. It’s the crème de
le crème of transportation for Cathedral Prep and Villa students.
• The Hockey team will keep it all
detailed out twice a year, and also
will wax and clean it twice a year,
which will also give them service
hours.
Same Time, Next Year:
Ramblers Win In Golf Again
It has become a yearly ritual for the Prep golf team: step
up when the season is on the line and deliver the goods.
This past season proved to be the sixth consecutive one
where the Ramblers captured the Region and District 10
titles. Backed by seniors Greg Podufal, Mike Kloecker, Tony
Tebaldi and Tom Connolly and juniors Nick Bird and Cameron
Zbrzeznj, Prep again snagged the D-10 crown. They would
later win another Western Regional title before finishing
fourth in the state.
38 SPRING 2011
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
After a great senior season that saw
his game elevate as he was tabbed
the District 10 player of the year,
Prep’s Adam Blazek knew he wanted
to continue his basketball career in
college. He didn’t have to look far to
do that very thing. Blazek signed a
scholarship to play at Gannon next
season. If there was a major statistical
category in 2010-11, chances are
Blazek led the Ramblers in that
department. He was Prep’s top scorer this past season,
averaging 14.7 points per game, leading them in scoring 14
times in 24 games. Blazek also paced Prep in rebounding at
5.9 a game, assists at 4.7, which was twice as many per game
as anyone else, in steals at 2.7 and in blocked shots.
“It feels good to stay at home and be in a great situation
athletically, academically and financially,” Blazek said. “To
have all the hard work pay off from the offseason is a great
feeling. I grew up watching Gannon play basketball, and I
can’t wait to continue my career in
front of the great fans in Erie.”
“I believe Gannon is a great fit for
Adam’s talents and abilities,” said
Prep head coach Mark Majewski.
“Adam is a well-rounded player who
can do it all: score, rebound, pass
and defend. On top of his skills, he is
one of the hardest working players I
have had the opportunity to coach.”
RAMBLERS BACK ATOP
D-10 IN HOOPS
In an up-and-down
season filled with injuries
and close losses, the Prep
basketball team bounced
back from a tough 3-6
start to win their second
District 10 championship
in the last three years.
The title was secured
in a 51-40 victory over
McDowell, which proved to the Ramblers’ third of the season
over their rivals. Though Prep would lose a tough matchup
with Butler in the PIAA playoffs, the team closed a successful
season with a region crown (their first since 2008) and their
18th District 10 championship.
athletics
prep
Blazek to Play at Gannon
Football Run Gets
Ramblers One Play From
State Championship
A great comeback season that saw them advance to the
state semifinals for the first time in 10 years ended in difficult
fashion. Leading 21-3 in the third quarter, the Ramblers
could not hold on as they fell to Bishop McDevitt 24-21. A
year filled with injuries and adversity took a turn for the
better as Prep defended their District 10 championship with
a 28-16 win over Grove City in the title game. The magical
ride also included a run to the state’s final four with a thrilling
31-21 win over Central Valley. Prep’s Mike Mischler was
named the state’s AAA Coach of the Year by the Pennsylvania
Sports Writers. Sitting at one point in the season at 3-4, Prep
rallied with six straight wins. Mischler also helped the team
overcome a slew of injuries that decimated them throughout
the season. Three Ramblers were named 1st Team AAA AllState. Noah Ackerman, Jake Geanous and Mario Sanders all
earned the first team honors. Ackerman set a school record
for most extra points with 125 and also set a record for most
field goals in a game (three vs.
Bradford). His career 15 field
goals tied a school mark that
had lasted 22 years. Geanous
was a two-way starter but
made the team for his work
as the starting left tackle. He
helped Prep’s offense really
kick into gear in the second
half of the season. Sanders
made 70 tackles from his
linebacker spot and also
had nine sacks, this despite
missing key parts of the
Mike Mischler, AAA State coach
season due to injury.
of the Year
SPRING 2011
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School 39
prep
athletics
RUNNER TO CONTINUE
HIS CAREER IN COLLEGE
PREP BASEBALL TO SEND
TOP PLAYER TO PITT
Cathedral Prep senior Eric Hess is playing his senior season on
the baseball diamond, and all his hard work has paid off as he
looks towards the future. Hess signed a Division I scholarship
with the University of Pittsburgh this past fall in the Prep
library, as he was flanked by his father, Dave, who doubles as
the Ramblers’ baseball coach, and his mother, Christine.
Eric had a great junior season that saw him lead the team in
the offensive categories of runs scored, doubles and RBIs. He
hit .418 with four home runs and 29 RBIs. His stellar defense
Cathedral Prep’s Alex Simon had a solid four years running
at first base also contributed to Hess being tabbed an AllDistrict 10 selection, as well as being named one of the top 25 on the Rambler Cross Country team, finishing first this past
season in the Region 6 race which helped his squad to the
prospects in Pennsylvania by PerfectGame.org.
team crown. Simon also placed third overall in District 10,
His future collegiate coach, former Mercyhurst College
helping Prep to place second as a team while qualifying,
baseball coach Joe Jordano, is excited about what Hess has
along with Ethan Louis, for the PIAA championships. Next
to offer. “Eric is exactly what we look for in potential studentseason Simon will continue his athletic career at Allegheny
athletes at the University of Pittsburgh,” Jordano told the
College as a member of their squad. Here, Alex is joined by
school’s athletic website. “Eric plays the game the right way
his parents (Paul ’78 and Denise ’79 VMA), along with his
and is a great teammate. He has one of the sweetest swings
head coach, Chet Moffett.
we’ve seen on the recruiting trail and can hit for both average
and power and does an outstanding job around the bag at
first. We feel that he has the ability to make an immediate
impact in our lineup.”
SIGNING DAY
PROSPEROUS FOR PREP
National signing day had several Prep students making their commitments to colleges in their respective sports. Early
February brought with it good news for, from left to right:
Erik Hultgren, with coach Jeff Lord (Seton Hill, lacrosse); Luke Trucilla, with coach Mike Mischler (Minnesota, football); Justin
Wiley (Miami, OH, football); Tony Tebaldi, with coach Jim Sertz (Allegheny, golf); Greg Podufal (Georgetown, golf); Russell
Tattersall, with coach John Rees (Cincinnati, soccer) and Eric Hess (Pittsburgh, baseball).
40 SPRING 2011
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
News&Notes
Buzas Named To ESPN
Academic All-District 2
First Team
This past fall a Cathedral Prep graduate made an impact on
the football field but more importantly, in the classroom. Chris
Buzas (’07) closed out a stellar career at Saint Francis as an
offensive lineman as he was named to the ESPN Academic AllDistrict 2 First Team.
“This is a tremendous honor for Chris,” said Red Flash head
football coach Chris Villarrial. “He’s a program player who plays
the game the right way, and he excels in the classroom. We’re
very excited to hear this news.”
Buzas was a three-year starter on the offensive line for the
Red Flash, where he mainly played the guard position. He
was named a Preseason All-Northeast Conference pick in Phil
Steele’s football preview, and was one of four Red Flash lineman
to start every game this season. The Red Flash offensive line
ranked second in the NEC in sacks allowed, allowing just nine
quarterback sacks this past season.
Academically, Buzas maintains a 3.75 grade point average as
a Biology major. He is a three-time NEC Academic Honor Roll
selection, and a six-time member of the Athletics Department
Honor Roll. Buzas tutors his fellow students in both biology and
chemical principles, and also works with first-through-fifth grade
students in science. Buzas also volunteers his time with the
Adopt-A-Grandparent program, the Special Olympics, and Best
Buddies.
T
he cliché “you can never go home again” doesn’t fit
whenever you get a communication from a Prep grad
from ‘64. When you see one of the names from the
past, you return to those high school days and some incident
pops into your mind. What a great feeling! Those of us who
have been gone from Erie since our college days have not
forgotten the greatest high school in the nation. I wish my
five sons could have gone there too.
Keep up the communications. The website and the emails
keep the “good old days” fresh in our minds. When we can’t
be there personally, know that we are in our minds and
hearts.
Rich (Benny) Benacci ’64
An email to the Class of 1964
W
e would like to congratulate you on the
continued success on Cathedral Preparatory
School in developing young men of vision
in spirit, mind, and body. It has been such a pleasure
being a part of the CP family since our son, Robert,
transferred at the start of his junior year. Words simply
cannot describe our gratitude for the difference Prep
has made in his life. In addition to the high quality
education, you have given him self-confidence,
maturity, and a new inspiration for his direction in life.
Most Sincerely,
Jason & Stephanie Maust
Letter to Fr. Jabo
SPRING 2011
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School 41
Where in the World?
T
he Cathedral Prep Magazine is read all over. With sightings everywhere, we want to know where
you have taken your Magazine. Please email your picture and caption information to Christine
Eddy, Director of Communications and Annual Fund, at ceddy@cathedral-prep.com, and you could be
next to grace the pages of the Magazine that is read by over 14,000 constituents!
The Rastatters were armed and
dangerous with their Cathedral
Prep Magazines while on their
annual elk hunting trip in
Northwest Colorado in Routt
National Forest. L-R: Dan ’79,
Dave ’83, Dennis ’90, and Mike ’92.
Terrence Calabrese ’55 on board the Queen Mary 2 in
Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada this fall.
Colin Barcley ’14 visited Alaska.
Here he stands in Skagway
Centennial Park.
“Imagine” what John Lennon
would think of this photo. Andy
Kloecker ’13 broke out his
Cathedral Prep Magazine while
celebrating what would have been
John Lennon’s 70th Birthday in
New York City. It was taken while
“walking with the band/parade”
down Central Park West, near
Strawberry Fields and the Dakota.
Last September,
three members of
the Class of 1963
traveled to Germany
to visit classmate
Herb Koerber.
Standing with the
medieval re-enactors
from the Oktoberfest
parade are Dave
Karle, Bob Loeffler,
Keith Allison, and
host Herb Koerber.
42 SPRING 2011
The Yeagers went to Red
Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
outside of Denver, Colorado.
L-R: Terrence Yeager ’69 stands
with his son Christopher ’98, his
brother Brian ’81 and his other
son, Patrick ’01.
Dr. Mario D’Aurora ’72, Francis
D’Aurora ’03, and Patrick D’Aurora
’05 stand in front of the Leaning
Tower of Pisa in Italy with the
Cathedral Prep Magazine.
Past parent and
grandparent Shirley Chase
travelled to Tokyo during
“Fashion Week”. She is the
mother of Glynn ’70, Gordon
’72, Gayle ’77 and George
’80 and grandmother to
Matthew ’99, Bradley ’03,
Craig ’05, Grant ’11 and
Garrett ’12.
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
Dr. Nicholas Longnecker, M.D.
‘04 and his bride-to-be Marissa
Vasconi ‘05 (Kennedy Catholic,
Hermitage, PA) tailgate with
their Cathedral Prep Magazine
at the University of Miami (FL)
Hurricanes football game.
While on vacation in Negril, Jamaica, Jim Burke ‘63 proudly wears his
orange and takes the time to read The Advancement Review.
Director of Admissions Tim
Dougherty stands on the streets of
Germany during his vacation there
in January.
The Carlin family including
Mike, Ann ‘80 (VMA), Andrew ‘07
and Emily‘11 (VMA) traveled to
London last Christmas to visit
Brian ‘05 who was working in
Cheltenham for GE Aviation. Here
they stand in front of the Tower of
London where the crown jewels
are kept. Unfortunately, the
magazine was in Ann’s luggage,
which never made it to London.
Bill Bleil ’59, Bill Steger ’62, and
Greg Pashke ’65 stand with their
Cathedral Prep Magazine while
sailing on a 47’ catamaran near
the island of St. Eustatius in the
Caribbean.
Ed Lander ’61 poses on the deck
of the Norwegian Star, as he
prepares to enter the first lock of
the Panama Canal in December.
Gary Dylewski ’70, Ed
Brzezinski ’64 and Cheryl
(Dylewski) Brzezinski ’66
(VMA) travelled to the United
States Air Force Academy in
Colorado Springs, Colorado
with their respective
magazines.
Fr. Mike DeMartinis stands with a
Sister of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
with the Arabian Sea, the Bay of
Bengal, and the Indian Ocean in the
background in India.
Owen Short ‘76 from the Jet Propulsion
Laboratory mission operations control
room in Pasadena following the StardustNExt spacecraft February 14 encounter
with comet Tempel 1. Owen is currently
supporting the JUNO mission to Jupiter,
the GRAIL mission to the Moon and
the Mars Science Laboratory rover all
scheduled for launch later this year.
Jeff Schenker ‘88, a tour
leader for GAP Adventures in
Central America and Mexico,
stands with the Cathedral Prep
Magazine and Tikal brochure
at El Peten, Tikal ruins.
Rick Griffith ’64 and
Mike Tetuan ’00 visited
Egypt in December
2010. They were there
during the national
elections.
George R. Gifford ’83 traveled to
Australia to train the Australian
Defense Force in the latest in
combat simulation.
SPRING 2011
The following Ramblers got
together in Aruba for the
wedding of Bremmer Kneib ’99
and Maria Negron ’99 (VMA).
Front Row, L-R: Les Craig ‘99,
Eugene Cross ‘99, Mike Shea
‘99, Bremmer Kneib ‘99, Warren
Kneib ‘06, and Robert Doyle ‘73.
Back Row, L-R: Bryan Stear ‘99,
Robert Kneib ‘70, Jared Kneib
‘03, Dave Wagner ‘75 and Nick
Merski ‘99.
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School 43
News&Notes
Where’s Your Prep Spirit?
H
ow do you show your Prep Pride? If you
have a photo that might top the one below,
please send it to ceddy@cathedral-prep.com,
and we’ll make sure to include it in the next issue
of the Cathedral Prep Magazine.
While some Prep fans show their spirit by painting their face at
a football game or putting a “CP” sticker on their car, Prep Alum
Chris Cortes ’97 opted for something a little more permanent.
He has “Prep” tattooed on his arm. Cortes is the operation
officer for the Erie Region at Northwest Savings Bank.
When Father John Detisch ’80 does something, he likes to stand
out from others…aside from his custom-made Prep golf shoes,
his custom-made orange Prep blazer; he can now add his black
and orange custom-painted Suburban to the list. Here he is
posing with his Chevy. Only God knows what could be next!
Big fans of the Cathedral Prep Magazine, 1971
classmates, Mike Crotty, George Christoph, Ed
Schneider, and Jim Gervase pulled out all of their
Prep apparel for this photo while in Bradenton.
Even their cars have Prep written all over them.
Joseph Scott Prichard stopped in to
visit in December to show off his Prep
attire. He was born on January 20, 2010.
He is son to parents Scott and Kerry
Prichard. He joins his five big brothers
and four big sisters: Stephen ’09, Alex
’11, Blaine ’13, Jonathan ’15, Thomas
’21, Bernadette, Mary Catherine, Anne
Marie, Margaret Mary.
44 SPRING 2011
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
Mark Your Calendar
2011
May
June
19-22 Les Miserables
31
Baccalaureate
5
Prep Graduation
29
Rambler Golf Classic
July 22-24
Reunion Weekend
In Case You Were Wondering…
S
ince 1994, Chef Extraordinaire frank Cirillo has been
preparing Prep lunches, giving new meaning to the term
“lunch”. frank has added a touch of “home” to the menu.
How many other school cafeterias around here do you see
cranking out fettuccine alfredo on any given lunch day?
Cirillo’s first lunch ever served at Cathedral Prep was chicken
’n biscuits. It was a hit! Later that same month, he served
his fettuccine alfredo, and everyone went crazy for it! from
that day on, students, faculty and staff members still cannot
get enough of it. In fact, when the lunch menu comes out, people immediately look to see when
fettuccine will be served next. That’s when the countdown begins.
On what has been deemed as “fetta friday” around here, you can find students, faculty and staff
members “jonesing” for a taste of the same thing, “frank’s fetta”. The scent of garlic floats through
the halls all day causing mouth watering effects among the students, faculty and staff. Lines on
“fetta friday” are somewhat reminiscent of roller coaster lines at an amusement park. Everyone
wants in on the pasta that is slathered with butter, heavy cream, and garlic and served with a
traditional garlic stick. Needless to say, it is
the most coveted lunch served at CP.
Over 120 pounds of raw fettuccine noodles
are used for one lunch.
Another favorite Cirillo staple is the chicken
tortilla soup. frank makes approximately 50
gallons of it for one lunch.
SPRING 2011
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School 45
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Cathedral Preparatory School
Advancement Office
225 West 9th Street
Erie, PA 16501
Phone (814) 453-PREP
FAX (814) 455-5462
Web site: www.cathedral-prep.com
If this Cathedral Prep Magazine is incorrectly addressed –
either a misspelling or the individual no longer maintains a
permanent residence at this address, please send the correct
information to the Advancement Office at the above mailing
address or via email.
Taking the Cathedral Prep
Magazine to new heights
(25,000 feet) in a EA-6B Prowler is
Lt. David Leisenring, U.S. Navy ’00.