Issue No. 1
SPRING 2014
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
DARING
to dream
Message from the
President
The Magazine of Cathedral
Preparatory School
“I like the dreams of the future
better than the history of the past”
Cathedral Preparatory School
225 West 9th Street
Erie, PA 16501
(814) 453-7737
www.prep-villa.com
– Patrick Henry
Daring to Dream
ADMINISTRATION
Bishop of Erie
Most Rev. Lawrence T. Persico, J.C.L.
President
Rev. Scott W. Jabo, M.Div., S.T.B.
Principal
Trevor Murnock ’98
Assistant Principal
David Swanson
Director of Finance
John Dey ’78
Director of Athletics
Bill Flanagan ’87
Director of Admissions
Timothy Dougherty ’98
Director of Strategic Initiatives
Christopher J. Hagerty ’75
Board Chair
David Slomski’ 72
ADVANCEMENT OFFICE TEAM
Director of Strategic Initiatives
Christopher J. Hagerty ’75
Assistant Director of Advancement
Paul E. Simon ’78
paul.simon@prep-villa.com
Assistant Director of Advancement
Lauren Varner ‘03
lauren.varner@prep-villa.com
Director of Admissions
Timothy Dougherty ’98
timothy.dougherty@prep-villa.com
Director of Special Events
Kathy Grisier
kathy.grisier@prep-villa.com
Director of Constituent Relations
Nancy Bird ’84 (VMA)
nancy.bird@prep-villa.com
Director of Annual Fund
Mike Krahe ’00
mike.krahe@prep-villa.com
Advancement Services Manager
Terri Hess ’79 (VMA)
terri.hess@prep-villa.com
© 2014 Copyright of Cathedral Preparatory School.
All rights reserved.
T
he greatest achievements of any person, group, organization, institution, or endeavor
typically began first as a dream, a thought, or an idea. For example, the Founding
Fathers of our country first dreamed of a better way of life, a future – an independent
country – where people could enjoy freedoms and pursue their dreams without oppression
or fear. Their dream or vision of a new nation was soon shared by many others and
solidified a people who were willing and daring enough to fight to make that dream a reality.
That sentiment hearkened the beginnings of a new nation that would be known as the
United States of America.
When Cathedral Preparatory School was founded in 1921, it was the result of a dream or a
vision for a better way of life for the young men of the Erie area. Bishop John Mark Gannon
established this school so that the young men of his time would have opportunities for a
better future and be able to reach their full God-given potential. He also visualized a school
where future leaders would be formed for the Church and the country. With God’s grace, we
continue to pursue and realize that dream to this very day.
Without a doubt, Cathedral Prep has a splendid history and treasured traditions. We all
enjoy reminiscing about the various events, people, and stories that form our colorful past.
They are integral to the foundation from which sprouts our ability to dream for the future.
In fact, our traditions and history are not about impeding our move into the future, but
rather they are an encouragement and impetus for us to dream big and to actively form and
pursue our futures, both individually and collectively. Those who dared to dream in the
past have brought us to where we are today, and thus our present dreams will propel us
into the future.
We as a school have been blessed with the ability not only to dream of our future, but to
actively and passionately pursue it. Look at the various changes that have taken place over
the past few years: the renovations of the building, the new construction of the Cathedral
Prep Events Center, the incorporation of technology in the classroom, the implementation
of new academic programs, and the achievements and successes of our various athletic
teams, theatrical productions, and special events. These are the result of our daring to dream
for a better future and making those dreams a reality. And the dreaming has not stopped
or slowed in the least. Read the articles contained within the pages of this edition of the
Cathedral Prep Magazine, and you will learn about the dreams of various individuals that
have become a reality and the dreams that we as a school have for the future. You will also
read about people who have philanthropically committed to helping Cathedral Prep dream
for the future by supporting plans such as renovating the library and building a new aquatics
center and gymnasium at the Events Center.
Cathedral Prep dares to dream. Under the inspiration and guidance of the Holy Spirit and
with a deep sense of gratitude to those who support us, we will actively work to make our
dreams a reality so that we can inspire future generations to do the same.
Mary, Queen of Prep, pray for us!
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Fr. Scott W. Jabo
President
Editor In Chief
Fr. Scott W. Jabo
Contributing Editors
Paul DeSante ’51
Contributing Writers
Nancy Neumaier Bird ’84 (VMA)
Lucas Buseck ’14
Fr. Jason Feigh
Campus Minister
Bill Flanagan ’87
Director of Athletics
Brendan Flanagan ’16
Terri Hess
Advancement Services Manager ’79 (VMA)
Fr. Scott W. Jabo
President
Christopher J. Hagerty ’75
Director of Strategic Initiatives
Jack Kelly ‘15
Angela Malaspina ’15 (VMA)
Mike Mischler ’87
Head Football Coach
Trevor Murnock ’98
Principal
Tony Parsons ’05
Assistant Wrestling Coach
The Cathedral Prep Magazine is published in the fall &
spring by Cathedral Preparatory School, 225 W. 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 Cathedral
Prep Advancement Office.
Issue No. 1
SPRING 2014
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
DARING
to dream
About the Cover
Daring to Dream.
John Hilbert ‘14, left and
Michael Parker ‘14 proudly hold the
rendering of the new gym and
aqualtic center which will be constructed
on the site of the Cathedral Prep Events
Center on West 12th Street.
Table of
Contents
A Message from the President
Cover Story
2 A Daring Dream
Advancement News
4 Cathedral Prep & Villa Maria Academy Receive Largest Gift in the History of the School - $10M!
4 The Hilbert Family Library and Media Commons
5 Transforming Lives: The Campaign for Cathedral Prep Surpasses $18M Goal!
7 2013 Top Ten Scores on Entrance Exam
Technology
7 Cathedral Prep & Villa Maria Academy Launch Exclusive iPad App
Alumni
8 Prep Grad Tim Rohan ’08 is Making Headlines at the New York Times
9 Al Stankiewicz ’59 – A Real-Life “Rocky”
10 Harry Markopolos ’74 Speaks at Quarter Sessions
11 Mario Nicolia ’12 Raised $20,000 for Cancer Research
12 Jay Deimel ’00 Doing Orthopedic Fellowship with the 49ers
13 Vice Adm. Tom Weschler’s ’34 Dream of Building the SSV Oliver Hazard Perry Vessel Becomes a Reality
14 Reunion Weekend 2014
15 Alex Habursky ’10 Returns to Give Graduate Presentation to Chemistry Students
15 Christmas Shindig
15 Ramblers Reunite at Cross Country Meet
16 Class Notes
18Obituaries
Administration, Faculty & Staff
20 R.I.P Mr. Tony DelRio
21 Monsignor Hagerty ’47 Leaves a Living Legacy to Cathedral Prep
21 Mr. Tom Deau Receives “Golden Apple Award”
Special Events
22 Harvest Gala
23 Rambler Golf Classic 2014
24 Legacy Gala 2014
MVP
27 As You Like It
28Oliver
29 Leader of the Pack
Students
30 Two Prep Students Score Perfect and Near Perfect on SAT and ACTs!
31 Prep and Villa Students Get a Jump Start on College with Gannon University’s 1 + 3 Program
32 Prep & Villa Students Awarded for Efforts by the Kiwanis Club
32 Justin Fatica ’97- Hard as Nails
32 Prep Student Dedicates Eagle Scout Project to Vets
32 Prep & Villa Students March for Life
33 Catholic Schools Week at Cathedral Prep
33 Cathedral Prep and Villa Maria Academy Homecoming 2013
33 CP Competes in M3
34 ASL Team 7th in the State!
35 JROTC Attends American Legion Wesleyville Dinner
36 JROTC Celebrates 20 Years
3620th JROTC Joint Military Ball
36 Prep Students Provide Early Christmas for the Needy
37 Holocaust Speaker Visits Prep
37 Nick Ng ’15 Placed in 99th Percentile on National German Test
37 Cathedral Prep & Villa Students Receive Amelia Earhart Awards
37 News & Notes
Athletics
39 Wrestler Jake Gromacki ’14 Finishes 5th in the State!
39 Help Wanted
40 Athletic Hall of Fame 2013
42 Busy National Signing Day at Prep
43 A Great 2014 Classic
44 Prep Baseball from Arizona
44 Ramblers Conclude a Great Season on the Ice
44 Prep Wins Their 12th Consecutive District 10 Swim Title
News & Notes
45 Where’s Your Prep Spirit?
45 CP Grotto History Lesson
45 Bragging Writes
46 Where in the World?
48 In Case You Were Wondering…
49 Track Teams Benefit from Fitness Center
49 Mark Your Calendar
49 Rambler Retail
SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
1
COVER STORY
A Daring Dream
I
n 1879, a fire destroyed the Main
Building, which housed a small school in
the Midwest called the University of Notre
Dame. After the fire, Fr. Edward Sorin, the
Holy Cross priest who founded Notre Dame,
said, “In 1842 I came here as a young man
and dreamed of building a great university
in honor of Our Lady. But I built it too
small. So tomorrow, after the bricks cool,
we will rebuild it, bigger and better than
ever.” The rest, of course, is history.
It seems that all great things begin with a
dream. Fr. Sorin had his dream. He had
that rare ability to dream what no one
else could even imagine. The same can
be said for Archbishop John Mark Gannon
and the Sisters of St. Joseph, the respective
founders of Cathedral Preparatory School
and Villa Maria Academy. 93 years later for
Cathedral Prep, and 122 years later for Villa
Maria Academy, their collective dream for
educating young men and young women
is still going strong, so strong in fact that
it’s time to continue dreaming what many
thought to be impossible.
In December of 2013, it was announced
that Prep and Villa had received a gift from
an anonymous alumnus in the amount of
$10,000,000. The money was earmarked
to fulfill the strategic objectives of the
school, beginning with the completion
of what is known as the Cathedral Prep
Events Center (CPEC). The construction
of the first phase of CPEC (a turf field for
football, soccer, and lacrosse; an eightlane all-weather track; and a building for
locker rooms and concessions) began prior
to the Prep-Villa collaboration. Since the
dedication of CPEC, Prep boys and Villa
girls have enjoyed using this magnificent
facility. The original intent was to someday
add to the facility by building a gymnasium
and aquatic center, but nobody really knew
when that time would come. Guess what?
The time is now. It’s time to complete the
dream. It’s time to give our young men and
women the very best. It’s time to be daring.
In a few short weeks, a groundbreaking
ceremony will commence the construction
of the gym and aquatic center with an
2 SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
anticipated completion date of September
2015. The renderings on these pages are
the result of countless hours of creativity,
research, and hard work to build the finest
facility of its kind in the area. The gym
will consist of a regulation college-size
basketball court, and when the bleachers
are rolled back, we will have two regulation
college-size courts side-by-side. The seating
capacity will be over 1,800, which includes
400 reserved seats, and a luxury box. A
three-lane running track will overlook
the gym, and additional locker rooms and
offices will also be a part of the gymnasium
building. The aquatic center will consist
of not one, but two pools, with a seating
capacity in excess of 500. The competition
pool will be an eight-lane, all- deep pool,
with a 1-meter diving board, which will
represent the only pool of its kind in the Erie
area. The center will also feature a threelane shallow training and teaching pool
that will be used for swim lessons, aquatic
therapy, and also serve as a warm-up/cooldown pool for competitive swimmers. The
additional components of the aquatic center
consist of a 4,000-square-foot state-of-theart fitness and training room overlooking
the pools, a Rambler-Victor retail store,
and locker rooms. You can follow the
week-by-week progress of construction via
Facebook, Twitter, and of course, by visiting
our website (www.prep-villa.com).
Almost 80% of our young men and women
participate in sports and/or intramurals,
so this facility will provide countless hours
of activity for almost the entire student
body. Additionally, our partner Catholic
elementary schools will also utilize the
facility for many of their athletic events as
well.
The very mission of our school is embodied
by the young men and women who walk
the halls and play on the athletic fields.
It is with them in mind, and the rich
traditions of Cathedral Preparatory School
and Villa Maria Academy, that we embark
on this ambitious project. Like Fr. Sorin,
Archbishop Gannon, and the Sisters of St.
Joseph, let’s dream big, and through God’s
guidance and grace, let’s always, always
dare to dream.
Views of new gym and aquatic center.
SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
3
David Slomski ’72, Board Chair, Father Scott Jabo, President, and Chris Hagerty ’75, Director of Strategic
Initiatives, announce the gift at the press conference in the Cathedral Prep Library.
Cathedral Prep & Villa Maria
Academy Receive Largest Gift in the
History of the School - $10M!
O
n December 19, 2013, Cathedral Preparatory School and Villa Maria Academy
announced that largest gift in the history of the school. An alumnus who wishes
to remain anonymous donated $10,000,000! The gift was given to support the ongoing
renovation projects at both the Cathedral Prep and Villa Maria Academy campuses, which
have included the recent renovation of the Villa Library and the installation of the Villa Café.
Additionally, the gift will be used to fund the renovation of the Cathedral Prep Library and
the completion of the Cathedral Prep Events Center, which includes a gymnasium and an
aquatic center.
Father Scott Jabo, president of Prep and Villa, is thrilled and overwhelmed by this most
significant gift. “A gift of this magnitude is not only astonishing, but more importantly, it will
significantly enhance the school’s efforts to provide the very best education for our students,
particularly by accelerating our plans to renovate our current facilities and to build new ones
as well as providing support for various other initiatives. Obviously, this gift will greatly
enrich our educational and formational programs. I am deeply grateful that this individual
has such confidence in our school. Such generosity is quite an inspiration to all of us. This
is truly a wonderful Christmas gift for our school – one which will make a huge difference in
the lives of our students and our community for many generations to come. It is definitely an
answer to our prayers.”
The gift represents not only historic generosity, but also an unwavering commitment to the
future of the young men and women of Prep and Villa. The donor truly hopes the gift will
inspire other alumni, alumnae, parents, friends, businesses, and others to give as well. The
school will continue fundraising efforts that will be necessary to bring the above-mentioned
projects, and others, to fruition.
Just
Click!
Looking 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.prep-villa.com.
Just click on the “donate on line” button on the home page.
4 SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
The Hilbert
Family
Library
and Media
Commons
Transforming Lives:
The Campaign for
Cathedral Prep
Surpasses $18M
Goal!
A
T
he Cathedral Prep library
will be renovated and
transformed this summer into The
Hilbert Family Library and Media
Commons. The renovations are
intended to preserve the library’s
majesty, while at the same time
creating a 21st Century learning
environment by updating every
surface, installing new lighting,
adding air conditioning, and
furnishing the space in such a way
that resembles a college library.
Many thanks to Bill Hilbert ’54,
John Hilbert ’82 and a host of
others for providing the
resources to transform this
dream into reality.
fter years of intense work on Transforming
Lives: The Campaign for Cathedral Prep,
we are proud to announce that we have surpassed
our goal by $1.8M! Thanks to the extreme
generosity of our donors who partnered with us
along the past six years to trump this milestone.
We thank our benefactors who committed
to the campaign including; alumni, parents,
past parents, grandparents and friends who
have heeded to the call to leave their mark on
the Cathedral Prep experience. Thank you for
helping Prep build a foundation for our future!
Goal $18,300,000.00
Seniors Julian Lombardi, Andrew Wilcox and Kyle Johnson.
Mark Patrizia ’94, Matt ’91 and Abby Lechner ’98 (VMA).
Result $20,124,610.30
The result of the Campaign was announced in
October at the President’s Leadership Council
Appreciation Reception. Members of the
President’s Leadership Council gathered in the
Cathedral Prep Library for the annual cocktail
party to celebrate an ending to another fantastic
fiscal year.
Walt ’50 and Ron Helminski ’76.
our dedication to spirit and community. What
makes our school great is brotherhood. When
I was a freshman, I thought brotherhood was
just a buzzword, a marketing term that looked
good on pamphlets. But as I go into my senior
year, I have come to see that Prep Brotherhood
Most Rev. Lawrence T. Persico and Fr. Scott Jabo, President.
is a real defining feature of the Prep experience.
Bishop Lawrence Persico gave the blessing for the Every time I sit down for class, or stand in the
evening. Father Scott Jabo, President, spoke to the freezing cold to cheer on my brothers on the
field, or stand in the Cathedral for an all-school
members of the President’s Leadership Council
mass, I know that the men beside me would
and thanked them for their generosity. Andrew
support me through anything, because they are
Wilcox ’14, president of Student Government,
my family.”
also spoke to the members about his Prep
experience. He said, “Strong academics and
The members of the President’s Leadership
athletics, these are the qualities that make Prep
Council enjoyed the opportunity to get
a good school. But they aren’t what make Prep a
together and share their passion and
great school, and they aren’t why I am so proud
commitment for Cathedral Prep with other
to call myself a Rambler. What sets Prep apart is
members of the Prep community.
SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
5
Educational Tax Credit Program Benefits Education
Marquette Savings Bank contributed $80,000 to Cathedral Preparatory School and Villa Maria
Academy through the Pennsylvania Tax Credit Program /EITC (Educational Improvement Tax
Credit). The donation will assist students by providing scholarships. On hand for the check
presentation are, from left, Marquette CEO Michael Edwards, Fr. Scott Jabo, President of
Cathedral Preparatory School and Villa Maria Academy, and David Slomski, Senior Vice President
of Business Banking at Marquette and Board Chair for Cathedral Preparatory School and Villa
Maria Academy.
The Felix Family took advantage of a
naming opportunity at Cathedral Prep.
The science lab/classroom has been
named in honor of Joe and Kay Felix.
The engraved plaque hangs outside
the classroom. If you are interested
in a naming opportunity or a named
scholarship, please contact Mr. Paul
E. Simon ’78, Assistant Director of
Advancement, at (814)-453-7737 Ext. 2294.
Have you been receiving the latest and
greatest information about Prep in your
email in-box? If not, please send your
email address to Terri Hess, Advancement
Services Manager, at terri.hess@prep-villa.
com. We do not want you to miss out on
the many great things happening in the
Prep community!
Jeff Szumigale, Senior Vice President and Managing Director, PNC Wealth Management, and
Matt Zonno, Senior Vice President and Market Leader, PNC Commercial Banking, present the
$25,000 EITC check to Father Scott Jabo, President of Cathedral Preparatory School and Villa
Maria Academy, and John Dey, CFO of Cathedral Preparatory School and Villa Maria Academy.
Please note that in the near future we are
going to reduce the number of magazines
that we send out to our constituents. The
Cathedral Prep Magazine will always be
available online at www.prep-villa.com,
“Alumni”, “Cathedral Prep Magazine”.
Like us
and follow us
on Facebook
and Twitter
“Like” Cathedral Preparatory School on
Facebook! See our Facebook page for
school news, updates and photos, and hit
the “Like” button often.
Follow us on Twitter for the latest updates
on Cathedral Prep athletics and news.
First National Bank contributed $20,000 to Cathedral Preparatory School and Villa Maria Academy
through the Pennsylvania Tax Credit Program/EITC. The donation will assist students by providing
scholarships. L-R: Jeff Tebaldi, Senior Vice President, Fr. Scott Jabo, President of Cathedral
Preparatory School and Villa Maria Academy and Patty Gunesch, Assistant Vice President.
6 SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
Please visit our website, www.prep-villa.
com to stay up to date on the latest
happenings at Cathedral Prep.
Technology
Cathedral Prep & Villa Maria Academy
Launch Exclusive iPad App
C
athedral Prep
and Villa Maria
Academy have
announced a new
iPad app for all school
iPad users. It’s called
the “Class Schedule
and Assignment
Mr. Ryan Fasenmyer,
Manager.” Students,
Director of Technology.
teachers and staff can
view their class schedule, bell schedule
and assignments.
The app was designed by Mr. Ryan
Fasenmyer, Director of Technology. He
said, “We are excited to announce our
very first iPad app. At a glance users
will know where they need to be, how
much time is left in the class and what
assignments are due. We believe students
and teachers will find it to be a useful tool
inside and outside the classroom. “
Students, teachers and staff can access the
app at http://www.prep-villa.com/page.
cfm?p=1483.
We’re Right at Your Fingertips at
2013 Top Ten
Scores on
Entrance Exam
www.prep-villa.com!
Stay connected with www.prep-villa.com.
Our website will help keep you informed of
all of the happenings at Prep and Villa. Stay
up to date on events and activities.
The website offers a clean, easy-to-navigate
interface and a sense of uniformity for both
Prep and Villa. This site allows users to see
all events/articles categorized for school,
alumni and students. It also makes event
registration simple. Parents, students and
alumni now have their own portal to sign
into which features pertinent information
for each group including forums for
parents and alumni.
The following students received the top ten scores on the 2013 Cathedral
Preparatory School Entrance Exam. Their results are extraordinary in a
highly competitive field, and we are very proud of their accomplishments.
This year, almost 200 eighth-grade students representing nearly 40 different
parochial, public, and private schools sat for the exam. Clearly this is no
small achievement on their part. 1. Christopher Parks Luther Memorial Academy $1,000 Tuition Scholarship
6. Peter Pentz St. Peter Cathedral School $500 Tuition Scholarship
2. Noah Bongiovanni Villa Maria Elementary $1,000 Tuition Scholarship
7. Lucas McDaid Roosevelt Middle School $500 Tuition Scholarship
3. Christopher Mottillo St. Stephen School $1,000 Tuition Scholarship
8. Brandon Lombard St. James School $500 Tuition Scholarship
4. Alexander Clement Walnut Creek Middle School 9. Matthew Wegley St. Peter Cathedral School $500 Tuition Scholarship
$1,000 Tuition Scholarship
5. Nathaniel Ferrick Saint Gregory School $1,000 Tuition Scholarship
10. Michael Loney Joanna Connell Middle School $500 Tuition Scholarship
SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
7
Prep Grad Tim Rohan ’08 is Making Headlines at
The New York Times
T
im Rohan ’08 developed an interest for sports writing
while at Prep. He wrote for the student newspaper. He
was also involved with “Fresh Ink”, which is a program in
which teens were able to
write for The Erie TimesNews. Rohan went from
the Rambler newspaper and
climbed the writing ladder
until he landed his dream
job. He is the Mets Sports
Beat Writer for The New York
Times.
Rohan went to the
University of Michigan on
an engineering scholarship.
While there, he began writing
Tim Rohan ’08.
for their paper. He was just
getting his bearings straight when his dad passed away his
freshman year. That was a wakeup call for Rohan. He said,
“I want to do what I love.” His experience in writing as a
student is impressive. He interned for The Times-News, The
Cape Cod Times, The Philadelphia Inquirer, and his senior
year he landed an internship with The New York Times.
In summer of 2012, Rohan began his first week of orientation.
He was itching to write so he asked his editor what was
available. As an intern, he ended up covering the Mets’
first no-hitter in history. When his internship at The New
York Times ended, he stuck around to freelance. A writer
happened to leave, and his internship was extended in his
dream job.
write about. Rohan met Jeff Bauman’s family outside of the
hospital. They told him that Jeff had lost his legs. The next day
Rohan went back to the hospital.
Rohan wrote two stories about Bauman. One chronicled his
recovery titled, “In Grisly Image, a Father Sees His Son.” The
other story is titled, “Beyond the Finish Line.” Following that,
The New York Times hired Rohan to cover the Mets.
Rohan is constantly pushing himself to be the best. He loves
what he does at The New York Times. He said, “It’s the best
newspaper in the world. I want to write for the best. I am
constantly learning from my editors and colleagues.”
Rohan doesn’t feel like he is working. For him, it’s a
dream come true. He doesn’t look at it like writing. He
said, “It’s more about storytelling and developing different
relationships.”
In April of 2013, Rohan covered the Boston Marathon. He
was there when the bombs went off. The day after, he met
Jeff Bauman. Bauman was waiting for his girlfriend near
the finish line when the bombs detonated. He lost his legs.
Bauman can be seen in one of the iconic photos of the
marathon. He is being wheeled by a man wearing a cowboy
hat in a wheelchair. Bauman is seen in the photo holding his
left thigh.
Rohan is thankful for his Prep education, which provided him
with a solid foundation. He said, “The people, education and
discipline at Prep helped me to prepare for life.”
Rohan was on his way home when he thought he would
stop by Boston Medical to see if he could find someone to
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/04/17/us/in-grisly-image-a-father-sees-his-son.html
8 SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
In 2013, Rohan was named as one of the Sports Illustrated
Twenty-five under 25. Rohan graduated from the University
of Michigan with a degree in Sports Management.
Read Tim’s work:
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/07/08/sports/beyond-the-finish-line.html?_r=0
Al Stankiewicz ’59 –
A Real-Life “Rocky”
To say that Al Stankiewicz has led an interesting
life is an understatement. He was shot twice, stabbed once
and trained with fighters like Oscar De La Hoya. He will
soon be honored with the prestigious Joe Louis Humanitarian
Award. His name is tossed in sentences with past recipients
of the award, including Nelson Mandela, Muhammad Ali and
Frank Sinatra. He is the 33rd recipient of the award. So how
did this all come about?
Stankiewicz graduated from Cathedral Prep in 1959.
Following graduation, he went to Gannon College. Trouble
there caused him to drop out in 1962. He ended up going to
California with two other friends. He said, “I always wanted to
go there to see the beautiful women and to surf.” While there,
he fell in love with it.
He ended up working at a shoe store. He met his first wife
and went back to school to finish his degree. He went to
UCLA and received his degree in sociology with a minor
in psychology. He began his teaching career and then got
involved with fighting.
Stankiewicz enrolled at UCLA and earned his teaching
certificate. He was working in Los Angeles as a teacher when
he saw a flyer advertising jobs in the Los Angeles Police
Department. So, he went down to city hall and took the test.
Stankiewicz passed the required police exams and became a
patrolman. He was on patrol during the infamous Watts Riots
of 1965. Eventually he was promoted to administrative vice, in
which he worked against gambling and prostitution.
While working for the LAPD, he fought undercover. His cover
was later blown. He wanted to be a champion so bad that he
left the police department to pursue his dream…fighting.
could have a ring downstairs
in the basement of the police
department. Stankiewicz started
putting together a team of fighters.
He invited kids from housing
Al Stankiewicz ’59.
projects to the gym, where he
taught them how to box. It caught on and was quite a success.
Over the years, Stankiewicz has trained Olympic champions,
including Paul Gonzales, who won the gold medal in the light
flyweight division at the 1984 Olympics in Los Angeles.
Stankiewicz also trained Oscar De La Hoya and was present
when De La Hoya won the gold medal at the 1992 Summer
Olympics in Barcelona.
His training didn’t end with boxers. Stankiewicz also got
involved with training mixed martial arts fighters. He trained
former UFC light heavyweight champion Vitor Belfort. He also
worked with Anderson Silva, the reigning UFC middleweight
champion.
Stankiewicz calls Culver City, Ca. home. He lives there with
his wife, Estelle Trujillo, whom not surprisingly, he has also
trained.
Stankiewicz has two sons, Alan and Andrew, and a daughter,
Andrea. His son Andy played baseball, who made it to the
majors, signing with the Yankees.
Stankiewicz’s journey has taken him to Brazil and France.
He’s enjoyed the trip every step of the way. At the end of the
conversation, he summed things up. “It’s been a great life. It’s
been fast and furious.” He wouldn’t want it any other way.
When he was 27 years old, he went to see a fight with a friend
who was a police officer. It was the “main event.” Al was
mesmerized from the moment he walked in. He saw Mando
Ramos fight at the Olympic Auditorium in 1967. Stankiewicz
said, “He was 17 at the time and won the world title! It took
my breath away!” The very next day Stankiewicz started
running. He wanted to train to be a fighter. Six months later
he turned pro.
While fighting, Stankiewicz had three ribs broken. He was
in a lot of pain and couldn’t continue. He ended up selling
insurance and made a lot of money at it.
The Captain from the police force asked Stankiewicz to
return to the LAPD and train. The Captain told him that he
Estelle Trujillo, Oscar De La Hoya and Al Stankiewicz ’59.
SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
9
man who goes by “Whistleblower Specialist” on his
Bernie Madoff Thebusiness
card knows a red flag when he sees one. So much
so that billions of dollars ponzi scheme, Bernie Madoff might well
Whistleblower have been wearing one in 1999 when Markopolos and his team
began investigating him.
Extraordinaire Markopolos spoke at Quarter Sessions on November 15. He said,
“It’s an honor to be here. It’s been a long time since I have sat in
seats. Thirty nine and a half years!” Markopolos recalled his
Harry Markopolos ’74 those
time at Quarter Sessions. He remembers sitting in his auditorium
wondering where he would end up.
Speaks at Quarter seat
Markopolos is thankful for his Prep education. He said, “The
here were great role models to me. They prepared me
Sessions teachers
well for real life. Prep is a good breeding ground for leaders.”
Markopolos gave the students some advice. He told them to
embrace failure. He said, “Failure is a great teacher. There is no
such thing as overnight success. The Madoff case was like that
for myself and my team for nine years. We repeatedly went to the
government about Madoff, and no one would listen.”
Madoff pretended to be a competitor of Markopolos’ and was
stealing potential customers from not only Markopolos’ firm
but other legitimate money managers around the globe. To
complicate matters, Markopolos’ bosses believed that Madoff was
real and kept pressing him to develop a competing product with
“numbers” as good as Madoff’s.
Once Markopolos and his team figured out how big the scheme
was, he knew it was up to them to stop Madoff. Markopolos and
his team warned the SEC repeatedly beginning in May 2000 and
finally in June 2007, but to no avail.
Madoff’s two sons turned him in to the FBI in December of 2008.
Aside from all of Markopolos’ success, he hasn’t forgotten his roots.
When he is in town, he visits Prep and walks the halls. He said, “I
learned something from two Headmasters here. ‘When the going
gets tough…the tough get going.’ That advice helped myself and
my team.”
Markopolos wrote a book, No One Would Listen: A True Financial
Thriller. He is pleased that several universities are using the book
in the classroom to teach business, finance and accounting ethics.
Markopolos’ story has made it to both TV and the big screen. Some
of the scenes in the documentary, “Chasing Madoff”, were filmed
right here at Prep.
Harry Markopolos ’74.
Harry Markopolos Fast Facts
B.A. in Business Administration, Loyola College of Maryland
M.S. in Finance, Boston College
Chartered Financial Analyst; CFA Institute
Certified Fraud Examiner; Association of Certified Fraud Examiners
10 SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
When Markopolos isn’t investigating fraud cases, he enjoys
spending it with his three sons and his wife, Faith.
Role Models:
Msgr. Robert McDonald
Mr. William Flaherty
Mr. Leonard Cyterski
Math Teachers:
Mr. Stan Brzezicki
Mrs. Joann Mullen
Sr. DePaul
Sr. Ellen Denise
Mario Nicolia ’12
Raised $20,000 for
Cancer Research
While a lot of college freshmen use their Christmas breaks
to unwind, Mario Nicolia did the exact opposite. Instead of
relaxing, he took the initiative to start an annual fundraiser
to support cancer research and run with it. He started the
“Game-Set-Cure” tennis tournament to support Kanzius
Cancer Research Foundation as his way of dealing with his
mother Jackie’s cancer diagnosis.
Mario, now a sophomore at the University of Pittsburgh, said,
“My passion for this cause stemmed from being surrounded
by people who have been affected by cancer, specifically my
mother, family members, teachers, and many others. I feel
that everyone should be able to join the fight against cancer,
whether a person has medical expertise or not. For me the best
way to fight against
cancer was to help
those with medical
expertise figure out
how to cure cancer/
treat it effectively by
fund raising and let
as many people as
possible join the fight
with me.”
Mario’s mother, Jackie,
was diagnosed in the
spring of 2012 with
thyroid cancer. In July of 2012, she had a thyroidectomy. Once
Jackie recovered, in the fall of 2012, she had Radioactive Iodine
Treatments. This past fall she had her one-year checkup and all
results were good. Jackie will continue to get tested every year.
Mario designed special shirts for the tournament
that included the names of the individuals he was
playing for.
Brian Schibler,owner of Tim Hortons, Erie; Tom Pakulski, owner of Westwood Racquet
Club; MarioNicolia’12, and Pat Grab ’05, tennis pro at Westwood and coach Cathedral Prep.
The players wore special shirts designed by Mario. On the
back of each shirt was a white space where players could
insert the names of their loved ones who have been affected
by cancer. On his shirt Mario included his mom, Mr. Kent
Peightal and Mrs. Joann Mullen and others that have been
affected by cancer.
Mario’s parents, Jackie and Carl Nicolia, said, “We thought one
of our proudest moments as parents would have been watching
Mario win a state tennis title. Seeing him, however, as an 18year-old college freshman conceive an idea for a fundraiser
in support of others makes us equally as proud. Certainly
his years at Prep reinforced his commitment to community
service and strong family values.”
The Third Annual Game-Set-Cure will be the first weekend of
January 2015.
For more information:
Mario Nicolia
Cell Phone: 814-746-0440
Email: marionicolia@aol.com
“Game-Set-Cure” raised over $8,000 in its first year with the
help of many sponsors and 100 tennis players. Thanks to the
generosity of local businesses and sponsors, over $12,000 was
raised this year! The tournament was held January 3 - 5 at
Westwood Tennis Club.
The tournament could not have happened without the help
of local tennis club owner, Tom Pakulsi of Westwood Tennis
Club. He supported the effort by donating his club and all the
court time for the cause. Many local tennis players, including
Prep and Villa students and alumni, participated: coaches
Kent Peightal and Pat Grab ’05 and players Nick Ward ’13,
Nate Estes ’13, Ryan Deimel ’01, Dr. Pat Demarco ’84, Michal
Prenovitz ’13, Michael Clark ’15, John Prichard ’15, Blaine
Prichard ’13, Andrew Kloecker ’13, Rick Sertz ’78, Claire
Messina ’15 (VMA) and Emily McGovern ’13 (VMA).
Tom Pakulski, owner of Westwood Racquet Club; Mark Neidig, Executive Director Kanzius
Cancer Research Foundation; Mario Nicolia ’12, Tournament Founder and Director.
SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School 11
Jay Deimel ’00
Does Orthopedic
Fellowship with the
D
r. Jay Deimel ’00 is working what he would consider his
dream job. He is doing his fellowship in orthopedics at
Stanford University and is working with the San Francisco
49ers. He said, “It’s definitely my dream job, as I have the
unique opportunity to help athletes at the highest level of
sport.”
The demands of an orthopedic team doctor at that level are
very high. Deimel said, “I have learned a great deal how to
manage those demands while also treating the best interest of
the athlete, which is their long-term health.” Deimel always
does as much as he can to help get the athletes back to play in
their environment.
Some of the best athletes in the country are putting their trust
in Deimel to operate on them. Most people would be nervous
about this. Deimel isn’t. He said, “It is essential to have the
mindset of providing the same quality care to every patient
(whether an NFL player or a weekend warrior). This same
mindset takes place in the operating room as well. The goal is
to be consistent at delivering a quality surgical result and then
effectively managing expectations of the athlete, agent, and
team in the postoperative setting.”
Deimel is thankful for his Prep experience, which gave him a
great foundation for his career. He said, “Academically, Prep
challenged me to always reach for my goals. The mindset and
skills necessary for me to be where I am today were formed
and fostered while at Prep. My desire to work with athletes was
a direct result of the camaraderie and successes of my teams’
athletic achievements while at Prep.”
Dr. Jay Deimel ’00 with
Dr. Tim McAdams at
Candlestick Park.
advice for students. He said, “I think it’s important for those
interested in becoming doctors to really spend time with them.
Shadow them in clinic or the O.R. It is a long but rewarding
road. You need to be committed to helping others and have a
passion for lifelong learning.”
In his spare time Deimel enjoys all that California has to offer:
swimming, biking, hiking, surfing, traveling, and skiing with
some Napa wine tasting as well.
Deimel received his undergraduate degree in science from
Notre Dame University. He went to medical school at Loyola
University, and then completed his orthopedic residency at the
University of Chicago.
The fellowship with the 49ers will be done at the end of July.
There is so much that Deimel will walk away with from this
experience. He said, “My year with the team has provided me
a better understanding of the rigors placed on elite athletes
to return as quickly as possible to their profession, a game to
most others. My experience has allowed me to become a better
physician in diagnosing and treating complex injuries. It has
also given me the opportunity to see firsthand the sacrifices the
athletes, training staff, and physicians make day in and day out
in contributing to the overall success of the team.”
After Deimel wraps up his fellowship, he plans to begin his
practice as an orthopedic sports surgeon. In the process, he
hopes to continue to help athletes at many different levels
return to the playing field in a safe and efficient manner.
The road to becoming a doctor is a long one, but Deimel has
12 SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
Dr. Jay Deimel ’00 with the training staff of the 49ers.
Vice Adm. Tom Weschler’s ’34 Dream of
Building the SSV Oliver Hazard Perry
Vessel Becomes a Reality
I
n June, Admiral Tom Weschler ’34 will realize his dream of
completing the first ocean-going full-rigged ship to be built
in the U.S. in 110 years. Rhode Island’s official sailing education
vessel, SSV Oliver Hazard Perry, will stretch 200 feet from stem
to stern and tower 13 ½ stories high, second in size only to the
Coast Guard’s Barque Eagle as far as this country’s collection of
Tall Ships goes.
After bringing several magnificent Tall Ships festivals to Rhode
Island, Weschler decided it was time Rhode Island had its own
Tall Ship, so he cofounded the nonprofit Oliver Hazard Perry
Rhode Island to buy a steel hull from a Canadian group whose
efforts to create a museum ship for historic Amherstburg,
Ontario, were thwarted.
This is the first vessel of its kind to be built in the United States
since 1903. It’s filled with twenty-first century technology
and has six-cylinder backup engines. On first glance, it looks
black and orange, but the colors are black and buff, which are
Revolutionary War colors.
Admiral Weschler is thrilled that his dream will finally come to
fruition. He said, “It’s been a six-year effort, and Prep has been
involved from the very beginning. I’m from Erie, and I went
to Prep. Once we get some Prep and Villa students aboard,
it will really be complete.” The Admiral
and his brothers, Charles ’27 and Frank ’31
along with Frank’s son, Ted ’79, all attended
Cathedral Prep.
Last July, Father Scott Jabo, President, blessed the Great Cabin of the SSV Oliver Hazard
Perry, which was dedicated to Navy Lt. Charles Weschler, Vice Admiral Tom Weschler’s
brother who died in WWII.
connection to both Rhode Island and Lake Erie. His story is
deeply embedded into the memory and history of Erie, PA.”
The Admiral does plan on taking a maiden voyage along with
the others who have worked so hard to make this happen. It’s
sure to be the sail of the century. Weschler said, “We’ll have
a chance to feel it under our feet.” Six years and nearly $10
million later, the Perry is about to become a bigger reality than
Admiral Weschler ever imagined.
The Admiral is really looking forward
to having some Ramblers and Victors
aboard. For a fee, high school, college and
adult students can sign up for educational
expeditions that will last a day to three weeks
long. They will be able to study maritime
history and underwater archaeology while
learning the ropes and taking the helm under
the direction of a 13-member crew.
The weeklong classroom programs
offered aboard the OHP this summer are
booked. Father Scott Jabo, President, looks
forwards to having our students take part
in expeditions in 2015. He said, “Our plan
is to send several students to Rhode Island
to participate in this wonderful experience
aboard the OHP. It makes so much sense
– Oliver Hazard Perry had such a deep
SSV Oliver Hazard Perry
SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School 13
Ramblers Rolling in for
Reunion Weekend 2014
Excitement is building for Cathedral
Prep alumni with graduation years
ending in “4” or “9”, as Reunion
Weekend 2014 approaches! Lots of
fun is planned to commemorate the
milestone graduation anniversaries.
The festivities are scheduled for the
weekend of July 25-27.
Cathedral Prep Memorabilia.
Class of 1978.
Class of 1998.
A picnic is planned at the beautiful Cathedral
Prep Events Center (CPEC) on Friday, July 25,
for alumni and guests. Weather-permitting, the
event will take place outside, so casual attire
is appropriate. Participants will be treated to
a picnic dinner provided by Sabella’s Catering.
Beverages are included as well. Tables will be
set in areas designated by graduating class, so
that classmates can gather. Lawn games will be
available on the field, and a photographer will be
gathering alumni for class photos. You will also
get a sneak peek at the plans for CPEC Phases
II and III, which will include a state-of-the-art
basketball arena and aquatic center!
Saturday, July 26, is left wide open for individual
classes to plan gatherings for just their
classmates. Oftentimes alumni will coordinate
golf outings, picnics, lunches or dinners. Whether
hitting the links or reminiscing over a drink in
downtown Erie, it’s always a great day to catch up
and reconnect with old friends. We will keep the
Prep website up to date with the latest individual
class activities.
To wrap up Reunion Weekend 2014, you are invited to 8:30 am
Mass at St. Peter Cathedral on Sunday, July 27. After mass,
Cathedral Prep will be open for tours from 9:30 am - noon.
Current Prep students will be on hand to guide you through the
facility, or you can choose to roam the halls on your own.
A complimentary continental breakfast will be offered in the firstfloor conference room for you and your family. While you are
here, check out the latest Cathedral Prep fashions and other spirit
items at Rambler Retail, also on the school’s first floor. We can’t
wait to see everyone in July!
If you have class events to
report for Prep’s website
or have any other reunion
requests or needs, please
contact Nancy Bird,
Director of Constituent
Relations, at nancy.bird@
prep-villa.com or 814453-7737 x2293.
To reserve your spot at Reunion Weekend 2014, please visit www.prep-villa.com, Alumni, Reunion Weekend 2014,
Reservations, OR mail registration to: Cathedral Preparatory School, Advancement Office, 225 West 9th St., Erie, PA
16501 by July 1, 2014.
14 SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
Alex Habursky ’10 Returns to Give Graduate
Presentation to Chemistry Students
Alex Habursky ’10, a chemistry/biology major at Baldwin Wallace University, came
back to Prep to give his graduate presentation to Mr. Brian Markley’s AP Chemistry
Class. Habursky’s presentation was on the estrogen activity within water systems.
He used ways of testing it with biology, chemistry and physics. Habursky enjoys
creating new science and new tests.
Alex Habursky ’10.
“Prep gave me a solid
framework that prepared me for
college. Teachers encouraged
me to follow what I liked while I
was in high school, which was a
degree in science.”
Habursky studied abroad in the fall of 2012 in Hong Kong and went to Hong Kong
Baptist University where he swam for their swim team. During his time there, he
studied chemistry and Chinese medicine.
He appreciates his Prep education. He said, “Prep gave me a solid framework that
prepared me for college. Teachers encouraged me to follow what I liked while I was
in high school, which was a degree in science.”
Habursky graduated this month with a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry.
Ramblers from the Classes of 2010-2013 returned to Prep for the Christmas Shindig in January.
Christmas Shindig
Cathedral Prep held a “Christmas Break Shindig” for the classes 2010-2013 on January 2nd. The youngest
alums gathered to reconnect with their classmates. There was pizza, pop and plenty of photos. The Class
of 2013 had the opportunity to pick up their yearbooks. The gym was open for the afternoon. It was great
having the past students back in the building.
Ramblers Reunite at
Cross Country Meet
At the All-Ohio Cross Country meet on
October 4th, Ethan Louis ‘13 (University of
Dayton) competed along with his former
teammates and friends, Pat Pasqualicchio ‘12
(John Carroll University) and Martin Zegarelli
‘12 (University of Akron), each running for their
respective colleges.
Pat Pasqualicchio ‘12, Ethan Louis ‘13 and Martin Zegarelli ‘12.
SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School 15
1962, Dr. Walt Kalista retired in October
after working 36 years for the VA Health
Care System as a hospital staff dentist. In
addition, he also worked 26 years for the
University of Pittsburgh, School of Dental
Medicine, as an Assistant Professor in the
department of Prosthodontics.
1964, Dr. Joseph Cappello retired in 2005
after having had a successful career of 36
years in education. In his spare time he likes
to golf and travel.
1966, Gary Lillis recently published his
first book, “Wake Up And Go To Sleep.” He
wrote the book over six cold Erie winters as
G Lyle, his nickname during his Prep days.
The book is a humorous account of the
Viet Nam War. It invites the reader into the
most personal experience of a soldier: his
struggles with love, faith, racial harmony
and prejudice, and even life without
baseball. The character’s journey reveals the
isolation and loneliness he felt, the hope he
entertained, the unexpected friendships
he made, and the many responsibilities
and positions that were shifted to him. This
timeless memoir style recalls events inspired
by the experiences of the men whose lives
and psyches were forever changed by their
service to their country.
1970, Carl R. Fuhrman,
M.D. was the 2013 recipient of the American Alliance of Academic Chief
Residents in Radiology
(A3CR2) Outstanding
Teacher Award. This
yearly award recognizes
one outstanding residency teacher in radiology (selected from all
radiology residency programs in the United
States and Canada). It is the highest teaching award presented at the yearly meeting
of the Association of University Radiologists. The selection is based on “the quality
of their presentations and teaching materials, their ability to motivate learning, their
effectiveness as a mentor, and the impact
that their teaching has had upon trainees.”
Dr. Fuhrman is Professor of Radiology and
Chief of the Division of Thoracic Radiology
at the University of Pittsburgh School of
Medicine. He received this award at the annual meeting in Los Angeles.
1977, Joe Kotyuk is an audio engineer and
the owner of The Hungarian Haza Studio in
West Springfield, PA. He creates and records
sounds and turns them into an end product
that everyone can enjoy. He’s built consoles
and microphones for bands like the Rolling
Stones, INXS, Elton John, Chicago, Peter
Frampton, YES, Aerosmith and a slew of
others. Most recently, he shared his story
with “Tip of the Iceberg Entertainment.”
You can read more about Joe and view the
interview at http://hungarianhaza.com.
Here he is pictured with The Village People.
1989, Michael Sensor
is the proud father of
Ketevan Sophia Sensor,
age 3. Sensor recently
celebrated his 17th year
in practice as a Delaware
attorney in the firm of
Perry & Sensor.
1969 James Pietrzak, recently retired after
14 years as a senior project manager at the
University of Connecticut. He is pictured
with his wife, Sharon, at Presque Isle State
Park.
1993, Robert Merski married Emily Mosco
on November 23, 2013 in Christ the King
Chapel at Mercyhurst University. Robert
is a special education teacher at East High
School and a member of Erie City Council.
He holds a bachelor’s degree in education
16 SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
and religious studies from Mercyhurst
University. Emily is an attorney with the
Vendetti & Vendetti law firm. She is an
assistant public defender for the County of
Erie and a member of the adjunct faculty at
Mercyhurst University. She is a graduate of
Mercyhurst Preparatory School and holds
a bachelor’s degree in English and Spanish
and a master’s degree in intelligence studies
from Mercyhurst University. She also holds
a Juris Doctor degree from the Penn State
Dickinson School of Law. Cathedral Prep
alumni in the wedding party included, Mark
Montroy, ’01 and Stephen Falk III, ‘03.
1994, Derek DelPorto, head coach of
the Eastern Michigan University Eagles,
became the winningest coach in EMU
history this past February. His team, sitting
at 12-7, has wins over #23 Stanford and
Duke.
2002, Adam Causgrove was selected by
the University of Pittsburgh to receive the
2014 Chancellor’s Award for Staff Excellence.
The award is given to staff members whose
work in the community surpasses the
expectations of the organizations they
serve and whose commitment and effort
have made a significant impact on the
community. Causgrove was also selected
as the “Robert Goulet Mustached American
of the Year Award.” In addition, he cofounded and serves as director of Side
Project Inc., whose mission is to support
small and grassroots community-based
efforts, helping new organizations grow.
took place at the Bel-Aire. Several Prepsters
were in attendance: Doug Taccone ’78, Jeff
Bengel ‘05, John Bauman ’75, Matt Feeney
‘05, Daniel Bauman ‘15, Billy Bauman ‘05,
Brian Hardner ‘05, Alex Keim ‘05, Matt
Hersch ’76, Mike Keim ‘80, Rob Oligeri ’76,
Paul Taccone ‘85, Kyle Schriefer ’02, Bob
Schriefer ‘70, Mark Boucher ‘05, Rob Hersch
‘05, Brent Schriefer ‘04, Morgan Yezzi ‘13,
Chris Micklos ‘05, Alex Fatica ‘05, Scott
Oldach ’75, Keith Hardner ’68, Nick Haller
‘05, Brian Grab ‘04, Glynn Chase ’70, Pat
Cross ‘05, Blaine Prichard ‘13, Pat Hiegel ‘70,
Jon Heintz ‘05, Paulo Colmenares ‘05, Patrick
Grab ‘05, Craig Chase ‘05, Michael Grab ‘74,
Tom Cross ‘72 and Dave Grab ‘76.
2002, Patrick McGill married Lauren Lee
Tarantello on Sept. 14, 2013 at Our Lady
Mount Carmel in Newport Beach. Fr. Scott
Jabo officiated. Their reception took place
at the Montage Laguna Beach. Patrick is an
Associate at Irell & Manella LLP (Newport
Beach) and Lauren is an Associate at Sheppard, Mullin, Ricter & Hampton LLP (Orange
County). They honeymooned in the Maldives and Istanbul, Turkey. The couple reside in Newport Beach.
2002, Ryan Fuhrman was in contention
for Pacific Fleet
Soy Award. He will
know soon whether he got Pacific
Sailor of the Year.
If he does, he goes
onto Hawaii to be
considered for the
International Sailor
of the Year. Best of
luck, Ryan!
2005, Patrick Grab married Emily Taccone
on July 12, 2013 at St. Patrick Church. Fr.
Mike DeMartinis officiated. The reception
2007, Michael Schupp served his first
Surface
Warfare
Officer tour on the
USS LABOON (DDG
58). He completed
an
eight-month
deployment to the
Eastern Mediterranean in support of
Ballistic Missile Operations. Michael
graduated from the
United States Naval Academy in 2011.
2005, Joseph Schroeck
and his wife Andrea
welcomed their first
child on September 2,
2013. Their daughter,
Sofia Carla, weighed
9 lbs. 6 oz. and was 21
inches long.
2006, John Csir
married Dinanyili
Esthefany on June
7, 2013 in the Dominican Republic.
The Csirs are missionaries for “Meeting God in Missions”
in Hato Mayor. They
work with local kids
ages 15-25 teaching them English
and discipline on
a spiritual level.
They also help with general education, and
much more. The Csirs are in the process of
starting a prison ministry in the Dominican
Republic.
2013, Jimmy Bufalino received his private
pilot’s license in November. Obtaining the
license consisted of passing a knowledge,
oral and practical test. He is working on
a bachelor of science degree in flight
technology and his instrument license at
Kent State University.
2013, Alec Wilcko, a freshman criminology
major at John Carroll University, received
a four-year ROTC scholarship through the
University.
Inquiring
Minds Want
to Know!
Please send us your personal and
professional news along with photos
for inclusion in the Cathedral Prep
Magazine.
Email: advancement@prep-villa.com
Mail: Cathedral Preparatory School
Advancement Office
225 West 9th Street
Erie, PA 16501
SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School 17
1936 Jack A. Reichert, March 12, 2013, was a U.S. Army Air Corps
veteran and a retired independent oilman.
1939 Richard J. Haughney, November 4, 2013, worked as an
accountant for 42 years at LORD Corporation and retired as
the treasurer there.
1946 Raymond T. Wieszczyk Sr., September 8, 2013, served in
the U.S. Marine Corps. He received a business degree from
Gannon College. He was a systems analyst at GTE for 36 years
until his retirement in 1987.
1947 Joseph W. Wieczorek, December 2, 2013, was a graduate of
Gannon University. He was the owner of Bridal Flower Shop
for the past 59 years.
54 publications, including university textbooks. He
developed the techniques for determining the hearing
protections afforded by earplugs against gunfire.
He conducted the first experimental assessment of
noise-induced hearing loss produced by rifles. He also
conducted research to determine the effects of speech
intelligibility on the performance of Army tank crews. He
received a special award from the French Army and worked
closely with French acoustical experts. He presented
papers dealing with acoustics in England, Japan, Spain,
Australia, Yugoslavia, Hungary, the Netherlands, Belgium
and Canada. He was inducted into the Acoustical Society
of America and was the only member who did not hold a
doctorate. He retired in 1996 from the Aberdeen Proving
Ground’s Human Engineering Lab.
1949 John L. Miraszek, November 22, 2013, served in the U.S.
Army during the Korean War. He retired from the City of Erie 1952 William A. Mack, November 13, 2013, graduated from
Gannon University. He was the director of GTE Data
Police Department in 1974. He then worked as a salesman for
Services in Fort Wayne, IN.
Hubbell Supply.
1949 Richard M. Wilczynski, December 15, 2013, earned a 1953 John C. Ditrich Jr., September 29, 2013, attended Purdue
University. He worked for the PA State Game Commission
bachelor’s degree in accounting from Gannon University. He
and was the district justice for Harborcreek Township for
served in the U.S. Army and then worked as a finance analyst
over 12 years, after which he was a horse racing official.
for General Electric for 35 years until his retirement. He was
He operated Opie’s Restaurant for a number of years
also an instructor at Erie Business Center.
before retiring.
1950 Charles R. Bowen, November 25, 2013, attended Gannon
University. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War 1953 Walter J. Hilinski, December 20, 2013, worked in the
shipping and receiving department at Lord Corporation
and received the National Defense Service Medal and Good
for 31 years, retiring in 1993.
Conduct Medal. He worked for Griswold Manufacturing and
later at American Sterilizer in the Payroll Dept., retiring after 37
1953 George E. Kaufman, February 12, 2014, attended
years of service.
Gannon University and served in the U.S. Army Reserves.
He played baseball for Cathedral Prep, Gannon University
1950 Robert E. Davies, December 9, 2013, was a graduate of
and the Cleveland Indians minor league organization.
Gannon University. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army Corps
He coached baseball at East High School and was an
of Engineers. He was employed as a technical writer at GE
assistant track and field coach there, and he also coached
Transportation and then in advertising at Mitchell Advertising.
football at Kanty Prep.
He worked as VP of Marketing at the Northwest PA Bank &
Trust in Oil City, PA. He owned and operated Dusty Corner
1954 Clarence A. Angelotti, December 10, 2013, was in the
Antiques in Reno, PA, until his retirement.
U.S. Army Reserves. He worked for Eriez Magnetics until
his retirement.
1950 John G. Matheis, February 23, 2014, served in the U.S.
Air Force. He worked in the rapid transit industry all of his
1955 Philip A. Pascarella, March 10, 2014, was a U.S. Army
working life, most notably with Westinghouse. He was the
veteran. He worked for the U.S. Post Office for over 20
president and CEO of Stone Safety Corp, and was the regional
years, retiring in 2005.
manager at ADTRANZ.
1955 Walter A. Youngs, September 13, 2013, was cofounder
1951 Eugene F. Williams, January 10, 2014, served in the U.S. Navy
and co-owner of Identification Systems, Inc.
during the Korean Conflict.
1956 George W. Bunce, November 28, 2013, was a truck driver
1952 Richard L. Frankiewicz, September 6, 2013, served in the U.S.
for many years, working for Erie Trucking, Jones Motor
Marine Corps during the Korean Conflict.
and ABF. Upon retirement, he delivered flowers for Joel’s
Flower Shop.
1952 Georges R. Garinther, March 9, 2014, earned a bachelor’s
degree in electrical engineering. He served in the U.S. Army
1956 Charles M. Elchynski, January 27, 2014, worked for
and then the Reserves. He studied ordnance noise and once
General Electric in the Statex Motorized Drives Division.
examined the acoustics of the John F. Kennedy assassination.
His work took him to over 52 countries worldwide, and
He was considered an international authority on the effects
he earned awards from G.E. for his expertise in his field.
of impulse noise on the hearing of soldiers and on the
He retired after 40 years of service.
measurement and analysis of impulse and steady-state noise.
He wrote more than 100 studies on noise that appeared in
18 SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
1956 Robert P. Urraro, March 1, 2014, served in the U.S. Army
from 1961 through 1963. He was a police officer with
Millcreek Township for 34 years, the last nine years of which
he was the animal control officer, retiring in 1999.
1960 Robert F. McCrarey, October 17, 2013, received a B.A.
from Gannon University and his master’s from Virginia
Commonwealth University. He retired as the director of
Catholic Charities Counseling and Adoption Services of the
Diocese of Erie.
1961 Clarence L. Colvin, February 9, 2014, studied at Gannon
and Edinboro Universities, receiving both bachelor’s and
master’s degrees in education. He taught in the Erie School
District for more than 30 years. In addition to teaching, he
owned and operated Parmento’s Pizza shop for many years.
1964 Frank M. Hughes, July 26, 2013, was a graduate of Edinboro
University where he received a Bachelor of Arts degree and
a teaching certificate. He taught at St. Sylvester School in
Pittsburgh, PA. and St. Patrick School in Franklin, PA. After
teaching for four years, he was a manufacturing supervisor
at General Nutrition Corp. He also worked for Plantscapes,
Inc. in Pittsburgh. He moved to Charlotte, NC and worked
for Sedgefield Interior Landscapes and finished his career at
A & B Floral.
1965 Mark E. Benecki, October 27, 2013, attended Gannon
University. He served in the U. S. Army. He was employed
by the U.S. Postal Service as a city carrier in Erie and then
as a supervisor of customer service in Bradford, PA. He was
the postmaster at Conneaut Lake and finally Edinboro, PA,
retiring in 2002.
1961 Ronald A. Walker Sr., August 28, 2013, attended Edinboro
University and was in the U.S. Army Reserves. He was
employed at General Electric from 1964 until his retirement.
1968 Robert A. Will, September 9, 2013, served in the U.S. Navy
during the Vietnam War. He worked at G.E. for 41 years until
his retirement in 2010.
1969 Michael J. Gray, February 4, 2014, he attended Gannon
University, earned a certificate in electronics from American
Television & Electronics School and received his license from
the City of Erie as a stationary engineer. He started his career
in the printing business. He instructed adult education
classes in office machines at Erie County Technical School.
He then went on to work for Hammermill and International
Paper, in the finishing room and power plant, until their
closing. For the past twelve years, he worked for the State
of PA, with most of those years at Presque Isle State Park, in
building maintenance for the Tom Ridge Center.
1975 Matthew D. Alexa, January 12, 2014, was a master baker for
Theresa’s Italian Delicatessen.
1975 Martin J. Kedzior, September 23, 2013, was a graduate
of the G.E. Apprentice Program and worked for General
Electric for the past 37 years.
1976 Jeffrey D. Rouch, December 18, 2013, earned a bachelor’s
degree in political science from Gannon University. He
later graduated from the University of Maryland with a
master’s degree in government and politics. He began
his career with the Senate of Pennsylvania as the director
of Policy Development and Research Office/Office of
Legislative Research in Harrisburg, PA. He then became the
director of government affairs for the Insurance Federation
of PA in Philadelphia. For the last 21 years, he worked for
Nationwide Mutual Insurance Co. in Columbus, OH, retiring
in 2011 as the senior vice president of corporate relations &
public affairs.
1990 Carl W. Coates, September 3, 2013, graduated from
the University of Pittsburgh with a bachelor’s degree in
architectural studies. He received a master’s degree in
architecture from Ohio State University. His was also
an animator, and his work could be seen at numerous
professional sports arenas and major league sporting
events including the Stanley Cup, the NBA finals, Major
League Baseball and the National Football League.
1991 Gary A. King II, October 19, 2013, was a graduate of
Louisiana Tech University. He received a Bachelor of Science
degree in health and physical education. He worked as a
claims adjuster in the insurance business in Raleigh for the
past 10 years. He became the poster child for Cystic Fibrosis
after being diagnosed at the age of four. In recent years
after receiving a bilateral lung transplant, he participated in
a triathlon and ran a 5k fundraiser for Cystic Fibrosis.
2010 David M. Hallman III, February 8, 2014, was a senior at
Denison University majoring in history and economics. As
a Prep Rambler, he swam for four years becoming an AllAmerican. He continued his swimming career at Denison
as part of their champion swim and dive teams.
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!
1969 Charles Orbanek, December 4, 2013, earned a B.S. in
Education from Gannon University and went on to earn a
master’s degree from Edinboro University. He worked as a
teacher at St. George School and was principal of St. Joseph
and Sacred Heart Schools. Most recently, he worked as a
deputy warden with the GEO Group in Tamarac, FL for 15
years.
SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School 19
Administration, Faculty & Staff
In Memory of Mr. Antonio DelRio
By Mr. Trevor Murnock ’98, Principal
“Life is given us that we may learn to die well.”
– St. John Vianney
W
ith extraordinarily heavy hearts, the Prep community had to
taste this bitterness when Mr. Antonio DelRio passed away
on February 25, 2014. As a 33-year faculty member, Tony had
taught well over five thousand students, but as an adjunct professor,
director of religious education, community builder, and volunteer
in myriad organizations he touched tens of thousands of lives—
changing many of them in ways that will echo into eternity.
Tony was that rare kind of individual who blended intellect and
spirit, pride and humility, tough love and kindness, in a way that
could not help but impact the people he encountered. As his
students know, that impact came through a seemingly endless deluge
of work, specifically designed as a refiner’s fire, to produce the most
intelligent, articulate, and morally grounded versions of themselves
possible. Year after year, I would have conversations with alumni that
all followed the same tenor: “These five-and ten-page college papers
are nothing compared to my 200-page DelRio project.” Speculation
about whether or not he actually graded those and other projects
had resurfaced for decades, but after several discussions with him,
I was not only convinced but struck by the care and investment he
put into thoroughly grading every page he ever assigned. Tony had a
marked inability to tolerate mediocrity from himself or from others,
but at the same time simply refused to give up on any student for
any reason. Person after person approached in tears at his viewing
and shared their triumph story with me and others, always with the
same summary: “If it was not for Mr. DelRio…” A former student
encapsulated this resolute disposition on Tony’s Facebook memorial
page. Wanting to transfer out of an advanced class, he approached
Mr. DelRio with the request. Tony’s answer was unambiguous:
“No. You are more than capable. You are just being lazy. See you
tomorrow.” It was exactly this kind of determination that propelled
him to push, and sometimes manhandle, every student beyond his
capabilities to a new level of thinking and acting.
Tony had a desire for knowledge and a love for humanity that put
him in an entirely separate category of person. He studied in no
less than seven universities, was an educator in four different states,
taught fifteen different subjects in his years at Prep, was a moderator
for at least thirteen clubs and activities, and participated in dozens of
community organizations throughout his career. Giving his life away
to others was his very essence, and he simply could not act any other
way. Even his private time at home was shared with his beloved dog
Mackenzie, and there was no greater solace the Prep community
could have had than to have her spend three days with us in
the school after his passing, brazenly strolling from classroom to
classroom in the Theology wing. She was completely at ease in Tony’s
domain and seemed to have an implicit understanding that she was
needed here­­—needed to remind us who also lost our caretaker that
all would be well and life does
indeed remain simple: to love
God with our whole heart, soul,
strength, and mind, and love
our neighbor as ourself. Tony
lived that every day and has most
certainly heard the words of our
dear Lord: “Come, you who are
blessed by my Father, inherit the
kingdom prepared for you from
the foundation of the world.”
Tony’s closing statement from
a faculty self-evaluation he
completed in 1982 said, “I must
remember to bring God’s kingdom
and not my own to the students I
teach.” May we all do as well as he
until we are reunited again. Rest in
peace, Antonio—you will always
be honored both here and in our
hearts.
20 SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
Monsignor Hagerty ’47 Leaves a
Living Legacy to Cathedral Prep
Fr. Phil Oriole, executor of Monsignor John Hagerty’s estate, presented
Fr. Scott Jabo, President, with a substantial gift from his estate on September
30. Monsignor Hagerty wanted to provide a living legacy for the school
that he loved so much. The funds will help provide tuition assistance and
scholarships for students. Some of the proceeds went toward the chapel
renovations.
A former Headmaster and faculty member, Monsignor John Hagerty
Msgr. John Hagerty ’47 passed away on April 6, 2013. He graduated from Cathedral Prep in 1947
and returned to Prep as a priest and a faculty member in 1955. Monsignor
Hagerty taught at Prep for five years before being transferred to St. Mark Seminary. In 1984
he returned to Prep as Headmaster and he held that position for five years. In 2004, he was
inducted into Cathedral Prep’s “Headmaster’s Hall of Fame.” In September of 2012 Monsignor
accepted a teaching position at Prep and taught first-year Latin. At the age of 25, Monsignor
Hagerty was teaching 15-year-olds at Prep, and
almost 60 years later when he was 83, he was still
teaching 15-year-old young men!
Msgr. Hagerty exemplified the meaning of
“Loyal and True.” He was a Prep man from the
beginning of his freshman year, and continued
being that man right up until the day he died.
Over that span, he touched thousands of lives with
his charm, humor, and compassion. Monsignor
was a true champion of Catholic education, and
his memory and legacy will live on.
Msgr. Hagerty Presentation
L-R: Paul Simon ’78, Assistant Director of Advancement,
Fr. Scott Jabo, President, Fr. Phil Oriole, Executor and
Chris Hagerty ’75, Director of Strategic Initiatives.
Msgr. John Hagerty ’47 celebrates Mass.
Mr. Tom Deau Receives “Golden Apple Award”
MVP teacher Mr. Tom Deau went from being
behind the camera to being on camera,
thanks to Nate Kapsar! WJET-TV and
Edinboro University visited Cathedral Prep
to present Mr. Deau with the Golden Apple
Award. The award honors area educators
who have made a positive impact upon
the youth of our community. Mr. Trevor
Murnock, Principal, along with Dr. Mary
Jo Melvin of Edinboro University and Lou
Baxter of WJET-TV presented the award to
Deau.
showered me with wonderful comments.
I’m blessed to have each and every one of
them in my life.”
Kapsar especially enjoys how Mr. Deau uses
his personal work experience to teach. Prior
to coming to Prep, Mr. Deau worked at
various news stations including WJET-TV. In
the summer, Mr. Deau films the “Backyard
Barbeque” feature for WJET-TV. In addition,
he also works for Image Sports.
Mr. Deau joins Golden Apple Award
winners Mr. Brian Markley ’89, Mr. Jim
Scharrer ’70, Mr. Mike Flanagan, Sr. James
Francis Mulligan, SSJ and Mrs. Rosemary
Apa Grove ’83 (VMA).
Congratulations, Mr. Deau! Thank you for
your dedication and commitment to our
students!
Mr. Deau was nominated by student
Nate Kapsar ’14. Kapsar credits Mr.
Deau with his decision to pursue a mass
communications degree at the University
of South Florida following graduation in
June. Kapsar nominated Deau for the award
because he revived the video production
programs that Prep offers. Kapsar said,
“He sees true potential in his students and
pushes them to do the best they can.”
Mr. Deau was surprised to receive this
honor. He said, “Winning the Golden Apple
Award” is a humbling experience. The
students, faculty, staff and administration
L-R: Mr. Lou Baxter, News Director, WJET-TV; Dr. Mary Jo Melvin, Edinboro University; Mr. Tom Deau; Nate Kapsar ‘14 and
Trevor Murnock ‘98, Principal.
SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School 21
S P E C I A L
E V E N T S
2013
Vera Bradley raffle.
T
Master of Ceremonies Lisa Chimenti-Foster.
here are many traditions at Cathedral Prep and Villa Maria
Academy, but one that brings women out in droves year
Gourmet bake sale.
after year is Harvest Gala. The event was held on October 2
at the Bayfront Convention Center. Women came together to celebrate the camaraderie
of women who support Cathedral Prep and Villa Maria Academy. Many mothers,
grandmothers, faculty, staff, alumni and friends gathered to represent both schools. This was
the 20th year for the event.
Villa Maria English teacher Lisa Chimenti-Foster served as the “Master of Ceremonies” for
the evening and kept everyone laughing with her hilarious jokes and exuberant personality.
Eighty-five elaborately decorated, themed baskets lined the Convention Center for the everpopular basket auction. There was something for everyone to pick from.
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.
Jacob Ordos ’14 and Fr. Scott Jabo, President.
There were several other chances to win something. Four raffles were held this year. One
featured a six-piece Vera Bradley set. Women could also take their chance on a leopard
ocelot Coach purse and wallet. They could also choose between a Prep or Villa custom-made
cornhole set, complete with cornhole bags coordinated to the school colors.
Ladies who did not win a basket or one of the raffles could not resist the temptation of the
gourmet bake sale which included scrumptious cakes, cookies, pies, cupcakes, breads and
candies.
Jacob Ordos ’14 and Lizzie Rodriguez ’14 (VMA) spoke to the audience about their
experiences at both schools over the years and thanked the women for their support.
Allburn Florist turned the Convention Center into a fall extravaganza with pumpkins and
vibrant flowers.
All the women enjoyed a classy evening out, while helping to raise money for Cathedral Prep
and Villa Maria Academy. Special thanks to everyone who played a part in making Harvest
Gala a tremendous success.
Jennifer Angert and Michelle Bleggi.
Special thanks to the following:
Title Sponsor: OB/GYN Associates of Erie
Gold: Saint Vincent Health Center
Silver: HBKS Wealth Management/Joe Kloecker
Sisters of St. Joseph
Frontier General Contracting
Gannon University
22 SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
Jacob Ordos ’14 and Lizzie Rodriguez ’14 (VMA).
Brooke Schneider ’16 (VMA) and
Ian Zegarelli ’15.
Silver Anniversary!
S P E C I A L
E V E N T S
Cathedral Prep is thick in traditions, and the Rambler Golf Classic is on the
Dan Dahlkemper ‘75, Chuck Dahlkemper ‘52,
list of favorites among our alum. This summer marks the 25th year that Prep
Dick Quadri ‘52 and Vinnie Halupczynski ‘79.
alumni, parents and friends convene on the course for a great day of spirited
competition, camaraderie, prizes, food and refreshments. Whispering Woods Golf Course, with its picturesque landscape and
rolling hills, will again be the site for the Rambler Golf Classic. Cathedral Prep cordially
invites you to the twenty-fifth annual event, which will be held on Wednesday, June 25.
As a result of the positive feedback from past participants regarding our “a a carte” selections
to best accommodate each golfer, we will offer the options again. Participants can choose
to simply show up and spend the day on the golf course or can enjoy lunch and dinner
as well. This year a black Nike Reckoning Long-Sleeve Polo, with orange “CP” logo, will be
offered at an exclusive Rambler Golf Classic participant-only price of $40 for any golfer who
is interested (retail cost is $60). Lots of choices…it’s all up to you!
The Rambler Golf Classic has a history of selling out quickly. We typically fill all slots
before the deadline, so please take the time to organize your foursome and register as
Rob Doyle ‘73 and his father John Doyle ‘46.
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 2. 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.
To register online for the Rambler Golf Classic, visit www.prep-villa.com, Alumni, Rambler Golf Classic, Registration. For
more information regarding the event, contact Nancy Bird at nancy.bird@prep-villa.com or 814-453-7737 x2293.
We look forward to seeing you at Whispering Woods on June 25 for the 25th annual Rambler Golf Classic!
Rambler Golf Classic 2014 Sponsorship Opportunities
Grand Slam
$1,500
Name & Logo in Golf Carts/on Banner
Foursome included
Eagle$1,000
Grand Slam benefits without Foursome
Birdie$500
Name & Logo on Beverage Carts/Stations
Full-page (5”W x 8”H) Program Ad
Par$250
Half-page (5”W x 4”H) Program Ad
Rambler Golf Classic 2014 A La Carte Menu
Golf, On-Course Refreshments and Prizes
Picnic Lunch
Steak Dinner
Nike Black Long-Sleeve CP Polo
ALL-INCLUSIVE PACKAGE
$85
$10
$25
$40
$160
Ryan Podufal
‘15 and Jack
Kloecker ‘15 (as
the Rambler).
SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School 23
S P E C I A L
E V E N T S
Legacy Gala 2014
This year’s Legacy Gala lived up to its theme, “Achieving
Excellence”, with an astonishing 560 guests in attendance
and over $360,000 raised. The gala proved to be better than
all the rest in the history of Cathedral Prep. The gala, which
is the premier fundraising event for Cathedral Prep and
Villa Maria Academy, was held on April 5 at the Bayfront
Convention Center.
The following alumni/faculty of both schools were honored
at the prestigious event and inducted into the President’s
Hall of Fame as a result of their accomplishments and
dedication to the mission of both schools. Two distinguished
alumni were honored from Cathedral Prep—Matt
Minnaugh ’83, (Principal of Schaffner, Knight, & Minnaugh
Company, P.C.) and Jack Bertges ’68. Sr. Mary Drexler,
SSJ ’63, the Distinguished Alumna, Faculty Member,
and Administrator (currently the principal of Villa Maria
Academy) and Adrianna Hagerty, Distinguished Faculty
Member (posthumously) were honored from Villa Maria
Academy.
Boo Hagerty ’80 (son of Honoree Adrianna Hagerty [posthumous]), Honoree Sr. Mary Drexler, SSJ ’63
(VMA), Principal of Villa Maria Academy, Honoree Jack Bertges ’68 and Honoree Matt Minaugh ’83.
Meg, Andrew ’14 and John Britton.
Dr. Mike Scutella ‘78 and his wife Eileen.
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 150 items in the silent
auction. The live auction boasted 16 items and featured the
opportunity to bid on a one-week stay in a vacation home in
Sonoma, CA and another in Orlando FL; a lease opportunity
on a 2014 Ford Fusion SE provided by Mark Winkler ’77 of
Champion Ford, and badges and accommodations for two to
the 2015 Masters Golf Tournament.
Cathedral Prep Senior Ambassadors.
Front: Julian Lombardi, Andrew Wilcox, Patrick Kloecker, Francis Kloecker, Kevin Grisier, John Hilbert and Kevin Bogniak.
Back: Michael Parker, Matt Harris, Ryan Dill, Zach Miller, Andrew Britton and Lucas Buseck.
Dennis ’78 and
Tara (Miller) Prischak ’91 (VMA).
Peg (Sweny) Bly ’70 (VMA), Patty Sweny
’72 (VMA) and Jonathon Bly ’03.
24 SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
“Achieving Excellence” –
Lives up to its Name
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.
Honoree Jack Bertges’68 and
Fr. Scott Jabo, President.
Honoree Sr. Mary Drexler, SSJ ’63 (VMA), Principal of Villa
Maria Academy and Fr. Scott Jabo, President.
Jerry Hagerty ’48 (husband of Honoree Adrianna
Hagerty [posthumous]) and Fr. Scott Jabo, President.
Honoree Matt Minnaugh ’83 and
Fr. Scott Jabo, President.
Ed ’73 and Christine Dahlkemper of Dahlkemper’s Jewelry
graciously donated an endless diamond pendant, valued at
$2,000. Raffle tickets were available for $20 for a chance to
win this breathtaking piece
Allburn Florist did an amazing job in decorating in Prep
and Villa colors. The blue and orange hydrangea flower
arrangements were spectacular and filled the room to make
for a breathtaking view.
Guests were treated to a Pulakos chocolate display donated
by Joe Hilbert ’88. Attendees who did not have room for
dessert had the opportunity to take chocolate home.
There were several highlights to the evening. The honorees
humbly accepted their awards and spoke about their love
for Cathedral Prep and Villa Maria Academy. Jerry Hagerty,
husband of Adrianna Hagerty (posthumous), accepted the
award and shared many kind words about Adrianna and the
school that she loved so much.
This years “Fund the Vision” raised an amazing $92,700 for
tuition assistance.
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 2014
Legacy Gala such a tremendous success! Mark your calendar
for April 25, 2015 and stay tuned for details for another
exciting Legacy Gala.
Overview of the room.
Villa Maria Academy Senior Ambassadors.
Front: Raven Clark, Hannah Easly, Victoria Mayer, Margaret Mascharka, Samantha Taylor,
Emily Allen, Elizabeth Rodriguez and Katherine Mischler.
Back: Abigail Quinn, Lindsey Mifsud, Margaret Carroll, Julianna Kaveney, Diana Oduho,
Abigail Fessler and Kayla Schlosser.
Beth and Billy Lewis.
SPRING 2014 Jim ’92 and Bridget (Palas) Gartner ’99 (VMA).
The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School 25
Legacy Gala 2014
The following individuals, companies, and groups provided monetary gifts as well as donations of merchandise or services to Legacy
Gala 2014. Their support, as well as that of those individuals and companies who wish to remain anonymous, is truly appreciated.
1201 Kitchen
21 Brix Winery
a la Carte
AAA East Central
Acclaim Electric
Angelo’s Salon Development Co.
A. Anthony & Sons, Inc.
John ‘79 & Jeanne Bartos
John ‘75 & Carolyn ‘76 (VMA) Bauman
Baumann Brothers Carpetowne
Dan ‘79 & Patty ‘78 (VMA) Bensur
Jack ‘68 & JoAnn Bertges
Bianchi Honda
Fred ‘83 & Nancy ‘84 (VMA) Bird
George Blakeslee ‘68
Kenneth Bleil
Mark ‘74 & Monica Bloomstine
Breakiron Jewelers
Dean & Dawn Brown
Brugger Funeral Homes
Canfield Radiator
Cathedral Prep Baseball Team
Cathedral Prep Cafeteria
Cathedral Prep Cafeteria Staff
Cathedral Prep Hockey Team
Cathedral Prep Swim Team
Cathedral Preparatory School
Champion Ford
Craig & Susan Chase
Chatham Industries
Douglas B. Chesley
Chido’s Dry Cleaners, Inc.
Chovy’s Italian Casual
Chef Frank Cirillo
Matt Clark ‘82
Colony Pub & Grille
Connoisseur Media, Mike Malpiedi
Mark ‘83 & Ann Connolly
Country Fair
CP & VMA Theatre Department
Cracker Barrel
C.A. Curtze Co.
Dahlkemper Jewelry Connection
Delta Sonic
John ‘78 & Susan Dey
David ‘61 & Leah Dieteman
Doleski & Wolford Orthodontics
David Doyle ‘82
Patrick Doyle ‘48
The Drapery Boutique
Jennifer Dworek Photography
Christine Eddy
Erie Art Museum
Erie Otters Hockey Club
Erie Philharmonic
Erie Playhouse
Erie SeaWolves
Erie Technical Systems, Inc.
Erie Runner’s Club
Mark ‘79 & Lisa ‘79 (VMA) Fatica
First National Bank of PA
Richard & Teresa Fischer
Friend of Cathedral Prep
Friend of Prep & Villa
Guy & Heidi Fustine
Gannon University
Geiger & Sons
Michael J. Grab ‘74
Patrick Grab ‘05
Doug ‘78 & Kathy Grisier
Hagan Business Machines
Chris ´75 & Jennie Hagerty
Hair Flairs
HBKS Wealth Advisors
Terri Hess ‘79 (VMA)
Garrett Hickey
John ‘82 & Nancy ‘87 (VMA) Hilbert
Bill & Becky Hilbert
Bill Hilbert, Sr. ‘54
John ‘82 & Nancy ‘87 (VMA) Hilbert
Tom ‘84 & Paula ‘83 (VMA) Hoffman
Kevin Holland ‘12
Howard’s Photography
Humes Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge & Ram
26 SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
iRock Fitness
Joe Root’s Grill
Jr’s Last Laugh Comedy Club
Vitus J. Kaiser ‘48
Kris ‘00 & Nicki Kane
Terry Keane ‘69
Kloecker Funeral Home
Joe Kloecker ‘70
Alex & Anna Kosenko
Frank Krakowski ‘70
Larry’s Central Market
Afrim Latifi ‘07
Matthew ‘91 & Abigail ‘98 (VMA) Lechner
LECOM Medical Fitness & Wellness Center
Lifelong Photovation, LLC
Ron & Kathy Little
Lorei Photography
Kevin ‘83 & Tricia ‘83 (VMA) Louis
John & Debbie Maciak
Mark Majewski ‘83
Marquette Savings Bank
Stephen & Ann Rutkowski ‘81 (VMA) Marx
Mason Farms
Meeker Marshall Shoe Fly
Mercyhurst University
Rich ‘79 & Lynne Miller
Miller Bros. Garden Center
Mike Mischler ‘87
Moe’s Southwest Grill
Christopher & Leetoya Muldrew
Dan ‘83 & Mary Beth ‘83 (VMA) Nawrocki
Nexstar Broadcasting, Tim Dunst ‘79
Ray ‘85 & Aimee ‘83 (VMA) Nicolia
North Coast Pools
Panera Bread
Peninsula Pups Doggie Day Care
Penn State Behrend Athletics
Bishop Lawrence Persico
Pineapple Eddie Southern Bistro
Pittsburgh Pirates
Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium
Pizza Hut
Presque Isle Partnership
Scott & Kerry Prichard
Tina Quirk
Steve & Mary ‘81 (VMA) Radack
John ‘82 & Peg Rahner
Ridge, McLaughlin & Latouf
Russell Upholstery Co., Inc.
Sabella’s Catering
Sanner Office Supply
Arthur F. Schultz Co.
Schwab Hospitality
Scott Enterprises
Mike ‘78 & Eileen Scutella
Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel
John ‘79 & Chrissie Simmons
Mayor Joseph E. Sinnott
Smith Provision
Summerhouse Café
The Brewerie at Union Station
Jim ‘52 & Mary Ann Toohey
Traditions Unlimited
Suzanne Trucilla
Valerio’s
Dr. Shawn Van Hove
Villa Maria Academy
Villa Maria Academy Cafeteria
Villa Maria Academy Cafeteria Staff
Villa Maria Parent Association
Dylan Vogt ‘08
Dave ‘75 & Kathy Wagner
Waldameer & Water World
Wegmans
Robert & Jilliam Wellington
Whispering Woods Golf Club
Mark Winkler ‘77
Yaples Vacuum & Sewing Center
YMCA of Greater Erie
Leonard Zawistowski Jr. ‘72
Joe & Janet Zegarelli
David Ziacik
As You Like It
T
Jack Kelly ‘15
he Cathedral Prep and Villa Maria Academy MVP Program opened their 2013-2014 season
with the production of the classic Shakespearean comedy, As You Like It. This hilarious show
features the story of two unlikely lovers: Rosalind, the daughter of a banished Duke, and Orlando,
a poor laborer denied his share of his father’s inheritance by his older brother, Oliver.
After defeating the famous wrestler Charles, Orlando meets Rosalind and the two immediately
fall deeply in love with each other. Soon after this meeting though, Orlando flees the kingdom
due to malice that the evil new Duke, Duke Frederick, holds against him. A short time later, Rosalind is also banished due to
Duke Frederick’s distrust of her, but she is accompanied in exile by Duke Frederick’s daughter, Celia, who has been Rosalind’s
best friend since childhood. The two girls decide it is best if they disguise themselves by dressing as men as they flee. Both
Rosalind and Orlando escape to the forest of Arden. In the forest, Rosalind and Orlando meet again; however Orlando does not
recognize Rosalind because she is dressed as a man. Many hilarious encounters between the two take place in the forest along
with funny interactions with other banished men and women also living in the forest. As the story moves on, Orlando saves his
older brother, Oliver, from a hungry lioness and consequently reconciles with him. Ironically, Oliver falls in love with Celia. In
the end, Rosalind reveals her true identity to Orlando, who begs for her hand in marriage, and, along with Oliver and Celia and
two other unlikely and amusing couples from the Forest of Arden, a festive joint wedding takes place. It is closely after this that
the evil Duke Frederick gives up his old ways of tyranny and gives the kingdom back to the good Duke, Rosalind’s father. The
couples and the good Duke then travel back to the kingdom where they all will live happily together.
Working As You Like It and playing the role of Orlando was a pleasure and honor for me. Being new to theatre, I relished the
opportunity to take on a challenging and rewarding character like Orlando. I loved every minute of it. Having an extremely
talented and dedicated cast around me made every rehearsal a memorable, enjoyable, and exhausting experience. With all the
hard work and preparation put into this show and the many talented thespians, it is no wonder that the Cathedral Prep and Villa
Maria Academy MVP Program stands high above other theatre programs in the area.
SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School 27
Oliver
O
Angela Malaspina ’15 (VMA)
liver Twist, also known as the boy who wanted more, is an orphan boy who was sold
by his caretakers, Mr. Bumble and Widow Corney, to funeral directors. He escapes
the Sowerberrys’ funeral home and is found by the Artful Dodger and taken in by a gang
of thieves led by Fagin. While Oliver is staying with Fagin’s gang, he meets Nancy and
her best friend, Bet. Oliver learns that these people are more like a family, and they would
do anything for each other. As Dodger is taking Oliver out to pick a pocket or two, Oliver
gets caught robbing Mr. Brownlow, a wealthy old man. Dodger runs and tells Fagin about
Oliver’s capture. Fagin and Bill Sikes, Nancy’s deceitful boyfriend, decide to kidnap Oliver
to protect themselves from
being arrested. Nancy
and Bill bring him back
to Fagin, but Nancy sneaks out and tells Mr. Brownlow she
will return Oliver to him. Mr. Brownlow realizes that Oliver
is his great-nephew after a confrontation with Mr. Bumble.
Suspecting that Nancy is up to something, Bill follows her as
she sneaks Oliver out and clubs her to death. He then grabs
Oliver and runs off. After Nancy’s body is discovered, Bill
appears at the top of a bridge, threatening to kill Oliver. Two
policemen shoot Bill and save Oliver, who is reunited with
Mr. Brownlow.
This show was staged in the H. David Bowes Auditorium
from January 30 to February 2. The school performance on
Thursday morning was attended by many grade school students from the Erie diocese. The rest of the weekend was packed with
family, friends, alumni, and faculty of Prep and Villa.
28 SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
Leader of the Pack
T
By Brendan Flanagan ’16
he Cathedral Prep and Villa Maria Theater MVP department recently put on
Leader of the Pack. It followed the life of Doo Wop star Ellie Greenich and her
rise to stardom in the 1960s. Songs such as “Be My Baby,” “Then He Kissed Me,”
“Hanky Panky,” and “River Deep Mountain High” had the audience singing along with
the cast.
The cast was full of very talented voices, really highlighting the girls. Rachel Lyons
killed it as the role of Darlene Love with her powerful voice that brought chills to
the audience. Kristina Tishenko and Maddie Nawrocki also had major leads and
had amazing solos. The entire cast gave all they had every night to make the show a
success.
Mrs. Mary Beth Hoag once again blessed us with her wonderful costume talents. There
was a costume change almost every scene which made the show ten times better. The
costumes matched the clothing worn in the 1960s and were appealing to the eye. They
complimented the set perfectly. The energy grew every night the play was performed. For only having three weeks
to rehearse and make it perfect, it turned out spectacular. The stage crew took center
stage at the end of the show during the bows. The entire audience got into it and were
clapping and signing along at the end.
Prep & Villa Invited to attend the American
High School Theater Festival in Scotland!
The reputation of the Prep/Villa MVP Program is not just
spreading far and wide, but across the pond as well! We’ve been
invited to attend the American High School Theater Festival in
Scotland in August, 2015. The quality of our productions has
gathered national attention, as is evidenced by this honor which
is bestowed upon only select high school theater programs.
Congratulations to Fr. Mike DeMartinis, his team, and the
Prep/Villa players!!
SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School 29
THE MEN OF PREP
Two Prep Students Score Perfect and Near-Perfect
on SAT and ACT!
M
ost students get sweaty palms, have sleepless nights and
invest countless hours studying for the much-dreaded SAT
and ACT tests that they have to take to get into college. Two Prep
students were calm and collected, with one scoring a perfect
score of 2400 on the SAT and the other scoring a near-perfect
score of 35 out of 36 on the ACT.
Shaun Evans ’14 had already taken
the SAT before so he had a pretty
good idea of what to expect, but he
did not expect to receive a perfect
score. He said, “I was elated when
I saw my score. I knew it would
help me get into colleges and that
it was a nice achievement, so I was
very happy.”
So, how significant is this? A total
of 1.66 million students took the
SAT this year. Just 494 of those,
including Evans, were able to
accomplish a perfect score. Trevor
Shaun Evans ’14.
Murnock ’98, Principal, said,
“Shaun is an incredible young man in every respect. Not only one
of the top 494 students in the country, but a truly humble, kind,
and spiritual person who has given so much of himself to others.
People like him are exceedingly rare and the height of our hopes
for humanity.”
Guidance Counselor Mr. Rick Grychowski ’70 researched his
records to see when the last time a Prep student scored a perfect
score. He said, “It’s been at least 25 years since we have had a
perfect score.” He continued, “An average score on the SAT is
1500.”
Evans is grateful for his Prep education. He said, “I think that
Prep prepared me by giving me a solid foundation in all of the
basic knowledge needed for the SAT and by providing me with
opportunities to be challenged and develop thinking skills.”
Evans does have some advice for students who are planning on
taking standardized tests. He said, “Do the best you can do by
preparing, and go into the test confident that you will do your
best and knowing that standardized tests are only one part of the
college admissions process.”
At the time that this article was written, Evans had not made
a final decision on a college or major. Possibilities that he is
considering for a major include biochemistry or some other
scientific field, classics, theology, and philosophy.
Evans has been taking classes at Prep since eighth grade and AP
classes since his freshman year. As a result of his great success,
he has been taking three classes a semester at Gannon University
since his junior year.
Evans is president of S.A.D.D. (Students Against Destructive
Decisions), vice president of Student Government, a member of
30 SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
the Academic Sports League and Math Club. Outside of Cathedral
Prep, he works at Our Lady of Peace Church in the office and is
very involved with the Youth Group there.
Evans isn’t the only student beaming about his college test
scores. Andrew Wilcox ’14 scored a 35 on the ACT (36 is perfect)!
The ACT scores were released at
1 a.m. Wilcox decided to stay up
to view them. When he logged in,
he was overjoyed. Since it was so
early, Wilcox opted to wait to break
the exciting news to his family the
next morning.
Like Evans, Wilcox had taken
the ACT before. He scored a 34
-- the writing score (which is not
included in the composite score
that people tend to associate with
the ACT) was low. He did not finish
his essay, so he retook the test to
Andrew Wilcox ’14.
raise that writing score. He said, “I
was worried I had scored lower on this test than on the test I had
taken previously.”
Thankful for his years at Prep, Wilcox said, “Prep has fostered in
me a desire to achieve at a high level. The school has also given
me opportunities to take advanced classes that I likely could not
have taken at other schools.”
Wilcox’s hard work has paid off. Murnock said, “Andrew is a
natural-born leader and an exceptionally hard worker who will
do anything he sets his mind to. His academic achievement easily
puts him among the highest students in the country, but his
personal qualities distinguish him far beyond that. We are very
excited to see the great things he will do in the world.”
Although these tests can make your anxiety level reach all-times
highs, Wilcox does have some advice. “Breathe. The tests are
less important than they seem when you are taking them. Some
practice is a good idea, but do not overdo it. Be confident going
into the test, and work quickly and effectively. After you finish the
test, forget about it. If you are unhappy with your score, practice
a bit more and retake the test. Any attempts after the second are
likely to have diminishing returns.”
Wilcox also takes classes at Gannon University. He is the
president of Student Government and vice president of S.A.D.D.
He also is cocaptain of the cross country team.
Wilcox will attend Harvard University in the fall. He was still
undecided on a major at the time of this article.
Both Evans and Wilcox have flourished while at Prep. Murnock
said, “These students have taken advantage of every opportunity
Prep has to offer and are absolutely outstanding examples for
every one of our students and young people the world over.”
THE MEN OF PREP
Prep and Villa
Students Get
a Jump Start
on College
with Gannon
University’s
1 + 3 Program
Bishop Lawrence Persico looks on as Dr. Keith Taylor, President of Gannon University; Father Scott Jabo, President of Cathedral
Preparatory School and Villa Maria Academy; and Dr. Carolynn Masters sign the 1 + 3 agreement.
Gannon University, Cathedral Preparatory School and Villa Maria
Academy have come together to provide students the opportunity
of accelerating their education. Gannon University’s Early College1
+3 Program affords students the opportunity to preplan their
college careers by offering accelerated 1+3 bachelor degree
programs and 1+3+1 master degree programs through the use
of existing articulation-evaluation of credit agreements and dual
enrollment courses.
Gannon worked closely with Cathedral Preparatory School and
Villa Maria Academy to align course requirements and plan an
Early College 1+3 course sequence. The University also worked
with twelve University programs that each developed a course of
study for completion of a major in three years. This means that
students will have a clear path to degree completion and can start
earning an income sooner.
Prep and Villa students who will be juniors in the 2014-15
academic year will be eligible for the full 1+3 Program. Gannon’s
existing articulation agreements and Dual Enrollment courses will
continue to be offered.
Father Scott Jabo, President, is thrilled to offer this program to
our students. He said, “The 1+3 program is one more indication
of the very strong and long-standing relationship that Cathedral
Prep and Villa Maria share with Gannon University. Not only does
this program provide a wonderful opportunity for our students
to accelerate their education, but it will be a huge cost savings for
our families. I am grateful that Gannon University acknowledges
and trusts in the excellent college preparatory education that
our students receive at Prep and Villa so as to offer our students
this exceptional opportunity. This program and our relationship
also shows the commitment and unified effort of Prep, Villa and
Gannon to support the continuation and promotion of Catholic
education in our area. I speak for all of us at Prep and Villa in saying
‘thank you’ to Gannon University for making this possible. 1+3+1
equals an excellent opportunity for our students.”
Program Requirements
Students must complete a specified combination of articulationevaluation credits and credits completed via the Dual Enrollment
program prior to entering as a full-time degree-seeking student.
Students will be advised as to the appropriate required courses by
their guidance counselor in consultation with Gannon University’s
Assistant Director of Admissions/Dual Enrollment Coordinator.
Students must meet programmatic admission criteria to be
admitted into the major. Further, once enrolled as a student at
Gannon, students must follow the designated curriculum plan to
ensure completion of the degree in three years and meet all other
degree requirements. Students must successfully complete a
minimum of 128 credits for a bachelor’s degree.
Students must complete the prescribed ArticulationEvaluation Credits
• Students must complete 4 full years (4 credits) of honors or
Advanced Placement courses.
• All courses must have been completed at Erie Catholic
Preparatory School with a grade of B or better.
• Articulation credits are not able to be transferred to other
institutions.
• Articulation credits will not be used in determining a student’s
Gannon grade point average.
• Some articulation credits may be used as elective credits and
may not be used to fulfill program requirements
Dual Enrollment Credits:
• Grades below a C in a dual enrollment course will not be
accepted.
• Each transcript will be evaluated individually by the assistant for
student records and the appropriate chair/ program director.
• Dual enrollment credits are eligible to be transferred to other
institutions.
Students who have completed 24 credits will not be required to
take the First Year Seminar.
SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School 31
THE MEN OF PREP
Prep Student
Dedicates Eagle
Scout Project to
Vets
Mary Hammer, Guidance Counselor; Trevor Murnock, Principal; Joe Causgrove ’14;
John Hilbert’14 and Tony Parsons, Key Club Advisor.
Prep & Villa Students Rewarded for Efforts
by the Kiwanis Club
Every year the Kiwanis Club of Erie asks various schools to
nominate two students from their school who have been excellent
students and have given back to the community and their school
through various activities such as volunteering, senior projects,
being involved in several clubs and are involved in activities at
their own school.
Two Villa students, Alexa Haverly ’14 and Samantha Taylor ’14, and
two Prep students, John Hilbert ’14 and Joe Causgrove ’14, were
nominated by administration. All four of these students have
contributed tremendously to Prep and Villa and the community in
various ways. We congratulate them on this honor.
Cathedral Prep Senior
Adrian Fritzke wanted to
do something to honor
the ultimate heroes of our
country…our veterans.
Adrian dedicated his
Eagle Scout project to
veterans. During a recent
ceremony, a new veterans’
memorial was dedicated
at the Community Park
Adrian Fritzke ’14.
in Greenfield Township.
Adrian raised the money, purchased the materials, and supervised
the construction for the memorial. He wanted to express his
gratitude for those who served our country.
Prep & Villa Students March for Life
Students from Prep and Villa took to the streets of Washington,
D.C. to “March for Life”
on January 21 and 22. Both groups 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 in our country.
The trip began with travel during a winter storm. The group
arrived safely at a parish in Virginia where they stayed. The next
day everyone went to Mass and breakfast at the parish, then
boarded the bus for the Metro station with an eye-opening visit at
the Holocaust Museum. After that, they went to lunch in the Old
Post Offi ce and then took part in the march on the National Mall.
The bitter cold day was full of sacrifices but worth it. From waiting
to get into the museum to the actual march, there were many
opportunities to be thankful for life and to understand life as a gift.
Prep and Villa students will continue to take a stand for life when
the lives of innocent people are increasingly threatened.
Justin Fatica ’97.
Justin Fatica ’97- Hard as Nails
When Justin Fatica ’97 has a point to get across, he does it in a way
that will leave you mesmerized. Fatica is an unordained Catholic
Minister and Evangelist. He is cofounder of Hard as Nails Ministries
and Mega Youth Ministries. When he speaks to his audiences, he
does it in a way that is definitely unique. He is brutally honest and
intense. He is shocking. He is in your face. He’s charismatic and
compelling. He’s passionate and aggressive in getting his message
across. Fatica brought his ministry to Cathedral Prep in September.
March for Life.
32 SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
THE MEN OF PREP
Catholic Schools Week at Cathedral Prep!
The Senior Homecoming Court.
Catholic Schools:
Communities of Faith, Knowledge, and Service
January 27-31, 2014
“Faith is the realization of things hoped
for, and the evidence of things unseen.”
(Hebrews 11:1) This year’s Catholic
Schools Week was filled with events that
highlight our goal to develop men of
vision in spirit, mind, and body by living
out our faith in a real way to grow in
relationship with Christ while serving our
brothers and sisters. Each day had events
and themes highlighting the national
theme of Catholics Schools Week while celebrating the heritage
begun by Archbishop Gannon in 1921.
Charlie Angelone & Megan Cooper.
Hannah Easly & Sean Taylor.
Monday, January 27
Theme: Student Appreciation Day
Events:
1. Jersey Day
2. Pizza Hut at Lunch
3. Max and Erma’s benefit for the American Heart Association. Sponsored by SGA
Tuesday, January 28
Theme: Faith Day
Events:
1. Blazer Day
2. Mass (Father Scott Jabo, President: Celebrant and Homilist)
3. Eucharistic Miracles Exhibit in the Library
Wednesday, January 29
Theme: Community Day
Events:
1. Eating Contest during both lunches. Sponsored by SGA and the Café Staff
2. Eucharistic Adoration (7 p.m. at Villa). Open to the Public, especially family and
friends of the Prep and Villa Community. Sponsored by Prep and Villa Campus
Ministries
3. Volleyball Tourney (3:00-4:30 p.m. at Prep). Sponsored by Campus Ministry
4. Eucharistic Miracles Presentation Continues. Sponsored by Campus Ministry
Lindsey Mifsud & Joe McCafferty.
Maria Mott & Benjamin Deck.
Cathedral Prep and Villa Maria Academy
Homecoming 2013
Thursday, January 30
Theme: Faculty Appreciation Day
Events:
1. Beach Day. Sponsored by SGA
2. Faculty Appreciation Lunch. Sponsored by Key Club
3. “Oliver “begins today. Open to the public and provided by the MVP Program.
Cathedral Prep and Villa Maria Academy held their Homecoming
activities on Friday, October 11 at the Cathedral Prep Events
Center. The evening began with the induction of the newest
members of Prep’s Athletic Hall of Fame. The ceremony took place
under the tent in front of CPEC. The 2013 Cathedral Prep Athletic
Hall of Fame honorees are: Mr. James Scharrer ’95, Hon. Daniel
Brabender ’70, Mr. James Hamilton III ’91, Mr. Michael Flaherty ’63,
Maj. Craig Konwinski ’70, Mr. Ed Hinkel ’01, Mr. Michael Hinkel ’74
and Mr. Mina George (posthumous).
Friday, January 31
Theme: Fun and Service Day
Events:
1. Silly Tie Day. Sponsored by Campus Ministry
2. DQ Day at Lunch. Sponsored by Campus Ministry
3. Service Project in Theology Classes. Sponsored by Campus Ministry
Tailgating took place in the west end zone of Dollinger Field prior
to the Ramblers taking on St. Joe’s. Half-time activities included
the introduction of the Cathedral Prep and Villa Maria Academy
Homecoming Court, as well as the newly inducted Cathedral Prep
Athletic Hall of Fame honorees.
CP Competes in M3
Cathedral Prep had a team compete in the M3 Challenge (Moody’s Mega Math Challenge) which is a nationwide competition.
The premise of the competition is essentially to apply mathematical concepts to solve a real-world problem. The problem given to this
year’s competitors was essentially how to make school lunches healthy, affordable, and delicious. The government wishes to make
lunches healthy. Administration wishes to keep them economical. Students want their lunches to taste good. The question posed was,
“how can we satisfy these three groups?”
Teams are composed of three to five students and one coach, though the coach may have no part in the problem-solving process.
Teams could meet anywhere on the weekend and collaborate for as long as they wished until a report was submitted. Prep’s team
(Lucas Buseck ’14, Anthony Paolella ’14, Andrew Wilcox ’14, Joe Marin ’14 and Chris Edgett ’15) coached by Mr. Angus Biebel met from
11-5 in the conference room on a Sunday. The team submitted their proposal in March. Large scholarships will go to the top six teams.
Approximately 1,200 entries were received.
SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School 33
THE MEN OF PREP
Front L-R: Madeline Anthony ’17, Sophie Mulard ’14, Kimberly Boehm ’15, Olivia
Bannister ’15, Daniel Macaluso ’15, and Andrew Wilcox ’14.
Back L-R: Nicholas Ng ’15, Sean Taylor ’14 and Shaun Evans ’14.
ASL Team 7th in the State & Participated in
Nationals!
Congratulations to our Academic Sports League team who
travelled to complete in the Academic State Decathlon at the end
of February. The team came in 7th overall. ASL coach Ray Ng said,
“Everyone improved their scores from regionals and pushed us to
our highest team score.”
Team members won 11 medals total this year, as follows:
Olivia Bannister: varsity level
Essay–bronze
Science–bronze
Speech–gold
Social Science–bronze
Nicholas Ng–scholastic level
Interview–gold
Sean Taylor: varsity level
Language and Literature–silver
Interview–gold
Andrew Wilcox–honors level
Interview–bronze
Shaun Evans–honors level
Economics–bronze
Science–gold
Sophie Mulard­–scholastic level
Essay–gold
Special mention goes to freshman Maddy Anthony, who broke
5,000 points in her first year; Kim Boehm, who filled in at the last
minute at varsity level and scored over 4,000 points with only one
month to prepare; and Daniel Macaluso, who also scored high
ASL Coaches at Regionals: Mrs. Sue Dobson, Sr. Jim Francis Mulligan and Mr. Ray Ng.
in the 5,000s. All the team members improved their scores over
regional with everyone in the 4,000 to 6,000 point ranges. These
individual high scores from every member are what earned us our
awesome finish and a chance at nationals.
The ASL Team was a PA competitor for the medium-school online
nationals for the United States Academic Decathlon.
The five teams representing Pennsylvania during the USAD®
National Championship Finals were:
North Penn High School – State Champion at Honolulu, Hawaii
Northwest PA Collegiate Academy – Wild Card at Honolulu, Hawaii
Moniteau High School – Small Virtual Online Representative
Catholic Preparatory School and Villa Maria Academy
McDowell High School – Large Virtual Online Representative
The competition took place in Hawaii, but our team competed
online. At the time that this article was written, we did not have
the results. Last year was the first year that our ASL Team went to
states. This year, they made it to states and nationals! ASL coach
Sue Dobson said, “Our team worked really hard to get here. They
have brought up their score by 10,000 points.”
We congratulate the ASL Team on an amazing job!
JROTC Attends
American Legion
Wesleyville Dinner
Cadet Joseph Scheloske ’17 escorts a
veteran.
Cathedral Prep’s JROTC attended
the American Legion Wesleyville
Dinner in November. Cadets in
attendance escorted local Erie
area dignitaries and assisted
with bringing in wheelchairs
and folks with walkers from the
Veterans Affairs Hospital and the
Pennsylvania Soldiers and Sailors
home. Guest speaker of the night
was Col. Brian McGrain.
34 SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
Matt Widomski ’16, Mike Mattera ’15, Almir Pekmezovic ’14, and Isaac Arndt ’15 at Mayor
Joe Sinnott’s Inauguration, January 6.
THE MEN OF PREP
while the military precision drill marching team The Immortals
continues to be one of the top units in Western Pennsylvania.
Hard work and practice have resulted in the team receiving a
record number of awards at competitions in Pennsylvania, Ohio,
Michigan and Florida. For a third straight year cadets have been
selected to compete at National High School Drill Competition in
Dayton Beach, FL this month, all of this while learning leadership
and having some fun.
JROTC Program Celebrates 20 Years
The Air Force in 1966 started Junior Reserve Offi cer Corps (JROTC),
which now has more than 900 units and 120,000 students
worldwide in 48 states, Puerto Rico, Europe and Asia. Cathedral
Prep’s program started in 1993 and in its 20th year has grown to a
record-high 90 students enrolled, which translates into 17 percent
of the student body.
While the uniform has changed very little over the years, the
current squadron at Prep is much larger than the ones from years
past and growing strong. According to the instructors, this really
speaks of the Air Force Junior ROTC program. Master Sergeant
Rich Sambuchino credits much of that success to the sense of
belonging to something bigger.
Both instructors Lieutenant Colonel McGrain, in his 17th and final
year teaching at Prep, and Master Sergeant Sambuchino, in his
9th year, watch how students gain confidence as they go through
the program. Sambuchino said, “This year’s squadron commander
Cadet Jake Iavarone ’14 is a prime example. When Cadet Iavarone
started the program, he was quiet and shy. Now he takes his place
as the head of the squadron. Cadets continuously encounter
leadership situations in which they are in charge; this allows them
to learn from their achievements and mistakes.”
Over the last year alone the Cathedral Prep Orange Commandos
have participated in more than 80 activities in the community,
The Elite Honor Guard can be seen firing rifle volleys at military
funerals with local veterans organizations in the Erie area and also
presenting the flag prior to numerous high school, college and
professional sporting events.
“This isn’t a program to get kids ready for the military. It is to
develop skills and pride in yourself for the road ahead. Many
people think we’re here to recruit students to the military, but
the students have no military service requirement after they
graduate. The program focuses on life skills, hands-on training and
citizenship and is truly cadet-run,”
Sambuchino said.
Cadets are given leadership roles throughout their time in the
program, while the JROTC instructors step back and let the cadets
take care of everything themselves. “We give them tasks and see
if they’ll delegate them or not,”
Sambuchino said. “If they struggle,
we help them to figure out the answers for themselves.”
While leadership and citizenship are at the heart of the program,
cadets take a different JROTC class each year in which they are
introduced to subjects such as Global Culture Studies, Frontiers of
Aviation and Exploration of Space. “We learn how airplanes work,
the history of the aircraft and where we could be going in the
future with new technology,”
Sambuchino said.
The mission of Air Force JROTC is to develop citizens of character
dedicated to serving their nation and community. The Air Force
Junior ROTC mission statement parallels the Profile of a Rambler,
and after twenty years here at Cathedral Prep, cadets are better off
from their time in the Air Force Junior ROTC program.
Cathedral Prep Air Force Junior ROTC - 2013.
SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School 35
THE MEN OF PREP
Out of the approximately 250 guests in attendance, 235 were
junior cadets from Air Force and Army JROTC programs from Prep,
McDowell, Seneca, Strong Vincent, and East. Dress code for the
ball was formal.
The Joint Military Ball is for all the cadets in the local area
programs, but time is also dedicated for the seniors graduating
to share what they plan on doing after high school. They are
also thanked for their
dedication to JROTC.
The event opened
with music from the
Prep Jazz Band. The
event took place from
6 -10:30 p.m. Dancing
started after dinner
and was followed by a
few traditional military
ceremonies.
Lt. Brian McGrain served as guest speaker and was honored with a print by Jim Sabol
’66 for his 17 years of service. L-R: MSgt Rich Sambuchino, Lt. Brian McGrain and Trevor
Murnock ’98, Prinicpal.
20th JROTC Joint Military Ball
The military has its own customs, both offi cial and social. Some
traditions have been handed down from the distant past, while
others are of comparatively recent origin. The Cathedral Prep Air
Force Junior ROTC carried on this military tradition on March 14 as
the Orange Commandos hosted Erie County’s 20th JROTC Joint
Military Ball at the Brewerie.
Adrian Fritzke ’14 with his date, Jessica Purchase ’16.
Prep Students Provide Early Christmas for
the Needy
Most of us never think twice when we sit down to Christmas Day
dinner. Imagine not having the opportunity of having a warm
meal. For the homeless and needy, it is like this quite often, but
on Sunday, December 8, Prep changed that by hosting the 24th
Annual Cathedral Prep Key Club Christmas Meal for the Needy.
A traditional turkey dinner with potatoes, gravy, stuffi ng,
vegetables, cranberry sauce and rolls was served in the Prep
cafeteria from 11:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Following dinner, guests enjoyed a wide variety of homemade
desserts and ice cream. Each child who attended the dinner
received a toy, and adults received a gift bag of toiletries. The
event had games for the children, musical entertainment, and a
visit from a very special guest from the North Pole. Dinner was
sponsored by the Cathedral Prep Key Club with the generous
assistance of many families and friends of Prep and Villa, many
local businesses, and the Erie Kiwanis.
Susan Kanonczyk, Austin Kanonczyk ’14, Jonathon Fitzmaurice ’14, Nancy Walsh, Turk
Hamilton, Evan Wronek ’14, Nancy Hilbert and Tim Hilbert ’15.
Special thanks to Chef Extraordinaire Frank Cirillo and his staff who
prepared more than 800 turkey dinners for the Erie community.
Key Club Advisor Mr. Tony Parsons was pleased with everyone’s
participation. He said, “Our students were unbelievable. They
helped out wherever needed, and were kind, courteous, and
extremely respectful of everyone in the building. They went above
and beyond to live out our Catholic call to serve.”
Thank you, Mr. Parsons, and Key Club for organizing the event and
spending the day helping to warm the hearts of others.
Christmas crafts were provided for the children.
36 SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
News&Notes
STUDENT
THE MEN OF PREP
Father Jabo, President, Holocaust survivor Margit Meissner, John Hilbert ’14 and Mitchell
Campbell ’14.
Holocaust Speaker Visits Prep
National Museum Holocaust speaker Margit Meissner shared her
amazing story with the students of Cathedral Prep on November
7. She was born in Austria to a wealthy Jewish family, Margit was
raised in Prague, Czechoslovakia. When Hitler annexed Austria in
1938, Margit, at age 16, was sent to Paris to be out of harm’s way.
When France capitulated, she fled Paris on a bicycle to avoid the
German troops. Due to her father’s past investments in the Congo,
she was granted a visa with which she obtained Spanish and
Portuguese transit visas to escape France. Miraculously reunited
with her mother who had come to France and then been interned,
mother and daughter fled on foot across the French-Spanish border
only to be jailed by the Spaniards. Eventually Margit and her mother
made it to the United States. She soon married a GI and followed
him to Army posts across the U.S. After the war she went with him
to the Nuremberg war crimes trials where she was employed by
the U.S. Army of occupation, reeducating Hitler youth. When her
husband entered the U.S. Foreign Service, Margit lived in France,
Hungary and Egypt, before divorcing him and returning to the
U.S. After a stint as a story analyst in Hollywood, she became a
businesswoman, manufacturing children’s clothes in San Francisco.
Eventually she became a dress design teacher and an elementary
school teacher in Argentina. She worked for 20 years in the
Montgomery County, MD, school system, as program planner and
advocate for educating handicapped children. Upon her retirement
in 1992, Margit became a volunteer in antiviolence programs. She
interrupted that activity when her children insisted she write an
autobiography. After Margit’s Story was launched, she became a
volunteer at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum where
she translates from Czech into English at the Archives and acts as a
tour guide in the Permanent Exhibit.
Seated: Connor Wurst ’15, Nicholas Ng ’15 and Timothy Evans ’16.
Standing: Evan Fritzke ’14, Jeremy Hill ’16, John Oehling ’16 and Kyle Fitzgerald ’16.
Nicholas Ng ’15 Placed in 99th Percentile on
National German Test
Congratulations to Nicholas Ng ‘15, who placed in the 99th percentile
on the National German Test. As a result, Nick will be able to apply
for an all-expense paid study trip to Germany this summer! Mr. Rolf
Daeschner, German teacher, is thrilled with the outcome. He said,
“Nick is an outstanding German student in addition to being a person
of great character, and I cannot think of a person more deserving of
winning this honor.”
Congratulations to all of our award winners for the 2014 AATG
National German Test.
Nicholas Ng ’15 - 99th percentile - Gold certificate
Timothy Evans ’16 - 88th percentile - Silver
Connor Wurst ’15 - 86th percentile - Silver
Evan Fritzke ’14 - 79th percentile - Bronze
Kyle Fitzgerald ’16 - 70th percentile - Bronze
John Oehling ’16 - 67th percentile - Achievement Award
Jeremy Hill ’16 - 65th percentile - Achievement Award
Prep Students Grow Beards to Benefit Charity
For the fifth time in history, Cathedral Prep students will grace the
hallowed halls of the building with beards intact. Cathedral Prep’s
Student Government has organized the fifth annual “Beard Week”
.
Prior to Christmas break, students were able to purchase a “Beard
Pass”
for a donation of $10. Students who purchased passes did not
have to shave for the first week following Christmas Break (January
6 -10). Approximately 25 Prep students and a few faculty members
participated. All the money raised went to St. Jude’s Children’s
Hospital.
Cathedral Prep & Villa Students Receive Amelia Earhart Awards
High school juniors from area schools were honored by the Zonta Club of Erie at the Amelia Earhart Awards Banquet on March 25.
Juniors Mary Kirik (VMA), Jack Lindenberger and William “Jack”
Kelly received honors. Zonta International is a global organization of
executives and professionals working together to advance the status of women worldwide through service and advocacy. Judge
Stephanie Domitrovich emceed the ceremonies. She gave the audience some background information on Amelia Earhart and then
quizzed the students on their knowledge of her.
The students were each interviewed by Judge Domitrovich about their accomplishments and future goals and then received their
certificates.
SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School 37
THE MEN OF PREP
SADD Helps the Erie Community
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 offi ce 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. Together, faculty/staff and
students collected 962 toys, 75 items of clothing, 54 items of candy
and 53 beauty supplies. In addition, over 100 toys were given to
Key Club to hand out at the Meal for the Needy. Special thanks to
SADD for all of their efforts with this ministry.
L-R: Jan Leonardi, Education Program Manager, Junior Achievement, Gail Whitney,
Executive Director, Junior Achievement, Bailey Klein ‘16, Sidney Jones ‘17, Father Scott
Jabo, President, Cathedral Prep and Villa Maria Academy and Mr. Trevor Murnock ‘98,
Principal, Cathedral Prep.
Two Students Awarded Junior
Achievement Scholarships
Congratulations to Bailey Klein and Sydney Jones for receiving
scholarships from Junior Achievement. Bailey received the
Bishop Zubik Scholarship and Sydney received the Cardinal
Wuerl Scholarship. Junior Achievement selects these scholarship
awardees based on participation in their programs and an
application process. The scholarships are funded by donations to
Junior Achievement and through Educational Improvement Tax
Credit from local businesses.
Mr. Brian Markley ’89, Jon Fiske ’14, Ryan Srnka ’15, Mike Douds ’15, Tim Roberts ’15, Alex
Madura ’15 and Josh Coleman ’15.
Over 1500 Pounds of Food Collected for
Food Bank
Several students and faculty members
went on a mission trip to Kentucky in June
Each 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 this holiday. Students and staff
help others by donating nonperishable food items.
This year over 1,500 pounds of food were collected for the Second
Harvest Food Bank. Mr. Brian Markley and Mr. Antonio Francisco
Del Rio were happy that members of the Prep community
generously gave to the Second Harvest Food Bank. Through the
kindness of the Prep Community, many of the members of the Erie
community were able to partake in a Thanksgiving feast.
Student Government Fundraiser Results in
$400 for American Heart Association
On January 27, The Student Government Association (SGA)
hosted “Fired Up for the American Heart Association.”Friends
and families were invited to help Prep’s SGA raise money for the
American Heart Association The event was held at Max & Erma’s
on Interchange Road. (20% of the total order went to the Heart
Association.) Despite the horrific weather, SGA brought in over
$2,000 in sales, which resulted in a $400 donation to the American
Heart Association.
L-R: Row 1–Brennan Kruszewski ’10, Fr. Mike DeMartinis, Chris Peck ’93, Mrs. Liz Slaby,
Amy Boxer ’11 (VMA) and Paul Snyder ’77.
L-R: Row 2–Ben Deck ’14, Adrian Fritzke ’14, Vicky Martin ’11 (VMA), Dominic Sisinni ’10,
Elizabeth Nawrocki ’12 (VMA), Andrew Dugan ’11, Kelly McCall ’12 (VMA), Matt Grisier ’12
and Jessie Beeler ’13 (VMA).
We were thrilled to have Bishop Lawrence
Persico as our guest speaker for Quarter
Sessions in February
Martin Luther King Art Show
Prep and Villa had great representation in the Martin Luther King
Art Show that took place at the Erie Art Museum in January. Diana
Oduho ’14 and Nicarra McFarland ’17 represented Villa. Eddie
Thompson ’17 and Jack Kloecker ’15 represented Prep. We had
four out of nine finalists. Congratulations!
John Oehling ‘16 receives his Prep pennant from Bishop Persico and Fr. Scott Jabo
38 SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
prep
athletics
Wrestler Jake Gromacki ’14 Finishes 5th in
the State!
By Tony Parsons ’05, Assistant Wrestling Coach
accolades include winning the District 10 tournament four times,
winning the Northwest Regional three times, qualifying for the
Pennsylvania State Championship four times and earning four
state championship medals (8th place, 6th place, 5th place, and
4th place), winning countless seasonal tournaments, competing
on several national level teams in the offseason, and being named
an Intermat Wrestling High School All American. Jake finished his
high school career with an unbelievable 124 wins.
As great as all of the gleaming medal are, Jake says that the biggest
prize that he is walking away with is his much larger family. “Prep
Wrestling has been like a family. All my teammates and coaches
have been there every step of the way through my journey, and I
know I wouldn’t be where I am today without my teammates and
coaches. They helped me become not just a better wrestler, but a
better man. I could never thank my coaches, teammates, or family
enough for all they have done.”
Jake is also confident heading into
college and the workforce one day because of Prep and everything
he learned through wrestling. “Wrestling is the toughest thing I
have ever done. Dan Gable once said, ‘Once you have wrestled,
everything else is easy.’ Through wrestling I have learned that if I
believe in myself, work as hard as I possibly can, and put my faith
in God, I know I can accomplish anything in the world.”Jake is
also extremely humbled when his name is now brought up in the
discussion of all-time great wrestlers from Prep. “When I hear my
name mentioned alongside so many of the wrestlers I looked up to
as a kid, I am honestly humbled beyond belief. I know there have
been hundreds of tremendously successful wrestlers to walk the
halls at Prep, and I am honored to even be mentioned in the same
breath as them.”
Jake Gromacki ’14
This past March, Cathedral Prep Senior Jake Gromacki capped off
one of the most successful careers in the history of Cathedral Prep
Wrestling, by going 4-2 at the Pennsylvania State Championships
and finishing fifth in the 120-pound division.
Jake’s achievement at the PIAA Championships, which is widely
considered the toughest tournament in the entire country, is
remarkable. When you consider his finish at this tournament and
add it to the rest of his career, it makes it all the more impressive.
By earning another state medal, Jake became the first person
in all of Cathedral Prep, Erie County, and District 10 AAA history
to ever earn four state medals from the Pennsylvania State
Championships. Pennsylvania is universally considered the
toughest state in the entire nation when it comes to wrestling.
For most wrestlers, it is a dream to even make it the State
Championships. Jake shattered all expectations and, in the
process, made history.
Cathedral Prep has had a long line of successful wrestlers whose
blood, sweat, and tears make our own wrestling room the
legendary place it is now. Jake can now offi cially add his name
to that list. Over the course of his career at Prep, Jake has earned
accomplishment after accomplishment. Some of his most notable
Next year Jake will attend the University of Pittsburgh where he
will continue his wrestling career. He is motivated to succeed on
the mat, but has higher goals because what he learned at Prep.
“My biggest goal is to be an Academic All-American. Prep has
taught me that academic excellence is what will really help you
succeed.”Jake also mentioned that this is not a good-bye to Prep
after he graduates. “My dream would be to come back one day
and coach at the school I love.”
On behalf of all of Prep, we thank
you, Jake for all your hard work in helping taking Prep Wrestling to
another level.
HELP WANTED
The Cathedral Prep Football team is looking for volunteer adult
managers to work with the coaches and players during the
upcoming season. This would be an ideal position for a retiree
who is looking to fill a few hours each day. The position requires
a valid driver’s license, all proper clearances (FBI, child abuse and
criminal), ability to lift 25 lb. or more and a love for Cathedral Prep
and the football program, with availability from July 1 through
December 31. You will be a member of the Prep Football Staff and
will work closely with the Head Football Coach and the Director
of Football Operations during practices and games. Experience
the thrills of the game from the sidelines, travel with the team for
away games and be an integral part of the program. For more
information, please contact head football coach Mike Mischler at
mike.mischler@prep-villa.com, or call 814-453-7737 ext. 2290.
SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School 39
F
CATHEDRAL PREP ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME
or the first time since
2008, Cathedral Prep
hosted Hall of Fame
inductions for some of the
best in the history of Prep
athletics. The ceremony
took place on October 11,
in front of the Cathedral
Prep Events Center. The
ceremony was free and
open to the public and
was followed by a tailgate
party in the west end
zone of Dollinger Field
2013 Athletic Hall of Fame Inductees
in conjunction with the
JAMES HAMILTON (’91)
school’s Homecoming. Congratulations to the 2013 Athletic Hall
Jim Hamilton was a scoring machine on the basketball floor for the
of Fame Inductees.
Ramblers in the early ‘90s, the likes of which have rarely been seen.
During his senior season alone in 1990-91, Hamilton scored 645
DAN BRABENDER (’70)
points while averaging 23.9 points a game, a record that stands
There may be no better historian of sports in the Erie area
to this day. He set the school record for points in a game with 42,
than Dan Brabender. A two-year letter winner and a captain in
wrestling, Dan’s passion for Prep was in charting others’ success. In while knocking down 86 three-pointers in his final season at Prep.
the early ‘90s it led him to begin to compile a statistical and written He was tabbed 3rd Team All-State as a senior while also making
history of Cathedral Prep football. By the year 2000, Brabender had several All-Tournament teams. His 1,076 career points is still eighth
crafted an amazing 929-page book on the first 75 years of Rambler in Rambler history.
football entitled: ‘Ramblers, The History of Cathedral Prep Football,
1924-1999’ in which he travelled from state to state to get specific
CATHEDRAL PREP ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES
details as it related to Prep football.
1992 Len Cyterski ’51 John Donatucci ‘54
The book was followed up a year later by a similar publication
devoted solely to Prep’s first state title football season. ‘That
Championship Season: The Story of the 2000 Cathedral Prep
Ramblers’ described in great detail all that took place for that
nationally ranked team. He continues to this day to compile
statistical data on seasonal and all-time records for the football
team.
JIM SCHARRER (’95)
It’s very rare for a student-athlete to emerge with multiple Division
I scholarship offers in one sport. In the case of Jim Scharrer, he
emerged from Prep with a triple play most people only dream
of: full scholarship offers in baseball, in football and a six-figure
contract to play professional baseball.
Scharrer won six varsity letters at Prep, three each in football and
baseball. He led the Ramblers in tackles both as a junior and a
senior, and his seasonal totals of 134 stops (’94) and 119 (’92) are
two of the top four in school history. In baseball he basically got a
hit every other time he strolled to the dish. He mashed his way to a
career batting average of .493 with 16 home runs and 88 RBIs, had
a career ERA of 1.42 as a pitcher while striking out 302 opponents
in 192 innings, becoming the only baseball player in Prep history
to have his uniform number (44) retired.
In 1995 he was chosen in the second round of the Major League
Baseball draft by Atlanta, and he was signed by the Braves, playing
six seasons in their organization, advancing as far as Double-A.
But that was only part of Jim’s athletic career, post-Prep. Following
his retirement from professional baseball, Scharrer signed a
football scholarship to play linebacker at Duke. There he was
named a Freshman All-American as well as being named to the
ACC All-Academic team. He was also a 2009 inductee into the
Metropolitan Erie Chapter of the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame.
40 SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
1993
1994
1995
2003
2005
2006
2008
2013
Monsignor James Gannon (AD) Mike McCoy ’66 Anthony Zambroski ‘48 Walter Strosser (Coach)
Monsignor Robert McDonald (Headmaster)
Ronald Costello ’57
Jim Dailey ‘53
Kevin Darkus ’80
Richard Detzel (Coach)
John Konkol ’50
Vinnie Timon ‘55
Norm Zmyslinski ‘52
Reverend Jim Fahey ’53
Donald Fessler ‘49
Bill Flaherty ’60 (Coach)
Ed Koscelnik ‘50
Rich Koscelnik ’50
Gerald Mifsud ‘68
Dr. Richard Rahner ‘50
Bill Carey ’57
Richard Dill ‘55
Tom Duff (Coach)
Jim Lynch ’53
Richard McBride ’34
Garrett Orr ‘47
David Van Volkenburg ‘68
Reverend Walter Conway (AD)
Tim Gore ‘80
James Mahoney ’45
James Schaaf ‘55
R. Ron Sertz ’65
Leonard Tomczak ‘53
Daniel Tomczak ’54
Robert Tomczak ‘56
Eugene Tomczak ’57
Patrick Tomczak ‘60
Al Hatkevich ’52
Jim Izbicki ‘77
Reverend Leonard Kuziora ’33
Pat Lupo ‘64
Nelson Schumacher ’28
Pat Steenberge ‘69
Mike Torrelli ’51
1949 Football Team
1953 Basketball Team
Willis Cardot ’71
Tim Colicchio ‘91
Tim Dunlavey ’86
Jim Marnella ‘63
Ted Morasky ’42
Richard Scolio ‘60
1932 Football Team
1964 Wrestling Team
Stan Brzezicki ’65
Joe Cook ‘71
Shawn Dombrowski ’83
Tom Hansen ‘70
Al Lubiejewski ’62
Jed Ryan ‘95
Mark Tate ’92
1967 Baseball Team
1980 Basketball Team
Dan Brabender ’70
Mike Flaherty ‘63
James Hamilton ’91
Mina George (Coach)
Ed Hinkel ’01
Mike Hinkel ’74
Craig Konwinski ’70
Jim Scharrer ‘95
That kind of sharpshooting earned Hamilton many college offers,
and he decided to play collegiately for the Naval Academy. At
Navy he helped the Midshipmen make the NCAA Tournament in
1994 and scored 14 points in their first-round game vs. Missouri,
their first tourney appearance in nearly ten years. A four-year letter
winner at Navy, Hamilton graduated as the school’s all-time leader
in three-pointers made in a season and in a career and is proud to
have been part of teams that knocked off Army all four years.
ED HINKEL (’01)
Ed Hinkel is one of the most complete football players in Erie
history. Very few who have ever suited up have been more of
a threat to score, no matter where they were on the field, than
him. A three-time letter winner on the gridiron, Ed played his
sophomore and junior seasons with the Ramblers as a wide
receiver and a defensive back, butwent under center in 2000,
averaging 10.5 yards a carry, the second highest in school history,
while rushing for 16 touchdowns. He also threw for 1,468 yards
and 22 TDs, second most in the program’s history. For his career,
Hinkel returned eight punts for touchdowns, a mark that stands
today, while averaging a staggering 20.5 yards a return. His 15
interceptions is also a Prep record. He won 1st Team All-State
honors as a senior as well as a Quad-A state championship, the first
in school history.
At the University of Iowa, Hinkel ranks ninth on the career
reception list with 135 and 14th in receiving yards at 1,588. His
15 career touchdown receptions ties the third best total in school
history, and he set the Kinnick Stadium record and tied a school
record with four touchdown receptions in his regular season finale.
Ed tied the school bowl record with two touchdown receptions
in the 2006 Outback Bowl, while he lettered in all four years he
played collegiately.
With his father, Mike, also inducted in this class, they become the
first father/son combo in the Prep Hall of Fame.
MIKE FLAHERTY (’63)
If you needed a perfect example of the “seasonal”
athlete, Mike
Flaherty may be your guy. In a time when many high school
athletes prefer to concentrate on just one sport, Flaherty took care
of every season by lettering a total of nine times on the varsity in
football, basketball and baseball, three times each in those sports.
As a senior alone, Mike was an All-City choice in the three sports he
played as well as an All-Catholic All- American on the gridiron.
During his time on the Rambler football team, Mike’s squads
finished a combined 21-4-1 as he played quarterback and
defensive back. His passing acumen led to a football scholarship
at the University of Detroit. There he broke all of the school
records in passing for the freshman team before eventually
earning three varsity letters total at both Detroit and the University
of Cincinnati, where he graduated from. He would serve as the
varsity starter at different stages as a sophomore, junior and senior.
He would later coach collegiately for six years.
Flaherty joins his brother, Bill (Prep class of ’60, Hall of Fame class of
’94), in his alma mater’s Hall of Fame.
CRAIG KONWINSKI (’70)
If there was water, chances are Craig Konwinski was in it while he
was a student at Cathedral Prep. Over his four years at the school,
Konwinski earned eight varsity letters, four apiece in water polo
and swimming.
In polo, Craig was 2nd Team All-City as a senior, leading the
Ramblers in goals with 26 as a cocaptain. In the pool, he was a
dominating force. In 1968 he was tabbed the outstanding high
school swimmer in the city. As a senior, Konwinski was All-State,
setting the school and pool records for his work in the 200
freestyle and 400 freestyle. He also set the Erie record in the 400
free and 400 free relay.
Those accomplishments certainly caught the attention of college
recruiters, and Craig earned a swimming scholarship to Kent State.
He made his mark immediately, setting the freshman record in
the 1,000 freestyle while helping Kent State win their first-ever
Mid-American Conference championship. He would win three
varsity letters at the school while placing in the top six in the MidAmerican Conference Championships in both the 500 and 1,650
freestyle.
Commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Army,
Konwinski spent 20 years in the military, retiring as a Major. He
completed U.S. Army Flight School with a specialty in helicopters
and held a variety of command and staff positions.
MINA GEORGE
Mina George was hired to coach the Ramblers football team in
1980. For 16 years George would lead a dominant team, amassing
a record of 131-44-2 (.748 winning percentage). He is one of only
two football coaches at Prep to win more than 100 games, and his
victory total is the most in school history.
With the Ramblers, Mina would win 12 Metro League
championships and seven straight District 10 titles. He became
the first coach in Erie history to take a team to a PIAA state
championship game. His 1982 edition is still considered one of the
best this city has ever seen, going 10-0 in a time before playoffs
existed.
George would coach 15 preseason All-Americans, four 1st Team
All-State players, six men who played in the vaunted Big 33
game and three players who would suit up in the NFL. Twice his
Ramblers were ranked nationally, advancing as high as 10th in USA
Today in 1990. He was tabbed the Pennsylvania AP Big School
Coach of the Year in 1991.
George had the pleasure of coaching his son, Owen, while at Prep
and would also coach track and field at the school. He passed
away in 2010 at the age of 63. Along the way he became Erie’s alltime winningest football coach and was inducted both into the PA
High School Football Coaches Hall of Fame and the Metropolitan
Erie Chapter of the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame.
MIKE HINKEL (’74)
A multipurpose athlete while at Prep, Mike Hinkel earned eight
varsity letters over his stay at the school. Though he lettered all
four years in baseball and earned a pair in track and field, Hinkel
made his statistical mark in football.
The first individual record listed in the Prep football record book is
“most career rushing attempts in a game.”Since 1973, that mark
has belonged to Mike Hinkel. He carried the ball 40 times in a
game that season vs. Strong Vincent. During that ’73 campaign,
Mike became the first Prep football player in 42 years to top the
100-point mark in a season.
As a senior, Hinkel scored five touchdowns in one game vs.
Cleveland John Adams. And though that record was later broken
by Tim Colicchio, his mark for most points in game, 36 in that same
contest, still stands. Hinkel was All-City in football as a senior and
led the Section in both scoring and rushing. He was also All-City in
baseball as a sophomore, junior and senior.
With his son, Ed, also being inducted in this class, they become the
first father/son combo in the Prep Hall of Fame.
Cathedral Preparatory School has long been known for their athletic programs. We congratulate this fine 2013 group,
now members of the Athletic Hall of Fame.
SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School 41
BUSY NATIONAL SIGNING DAY AT PREP
A large number of student-athletes from Cathedral Prep were recognized on the first Wednesday in February as part of National Signing
Day. Below is a composite list, by sport, of 14 athletes that have committed to college programs and where they’re heading to school
next year:
BASKETBALL
BASEBALL
Matt Harris—University of Massachusetts of Lowell. Prep’s first
Division I recruit in more than a decade, Harris is averaging more
than 21 points a game in this his senior season. He is only 60
points away from becoming the 12th player in school history to
top 1,000 career points after scoring a school record 78 in his last
two contests.
Ted DeSanti—IUP. Will join former teammate Scott Hess and
current teammate Sam Riley at IUP next season. Ted was second
on the team a year ago in hitting at .440 while leading the
Ramblers in RBI’s with 18. Will play shortstop for the Crimson
Hawks.
FOOTBALL
Jake DeHart—Yale University. Will head to the Ivy League after
a stellar senior season that saw him rush for 1,134 yards and 18
touchdowns while making 25 catches for 418 yards and six TD’s.
Jake projects as a running back in college after receiving multiple
D-I offers.
Felix Manus-Schell—Old Dominion University. One of the top
defensive backs in the state, Manus-Schell was a two-way star as
a senior. He led the Ramblers with five interceptions while also
setting a school record with 13 touchdown receptions in a season.
Will be a cornerback in college.
Alex Greenawalt—Colgate University. Alex led Prep in
receptions as a senior with 43 catches, good for 711 yards and 10
touchdowns. His 86 career receptions are second most in school
history.
Devonne Barnes—IUP. Playing on both lines for the Ramblers,
Devonne helped pave the way for a team that averaged 50.3
points a game. He made 35 tackles and two sacks and will play
defensive tackle at the next level.
J.T. Joint—Slippery Rock University. He led the Ramblers in sacks
as a senior with 7.5, helping him earn his way to the PSAC where
he will play linebacker. Also was sixth on the team in receptions
with six for 177 yards and a score.
William Monono—Slippery Rock University. Second on the team
with three interceptions he will join Joint at Slippery Rock and play
cornerback. Finished with 45 tackles this past season.
Caleb Futscher—Notre Dame College. Caleb will play in Ohio on
the defensive line in college. He made two tackles for losses as a
senior.
42 SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
Sam Riley—IUP. Sam heads to IUP along with DeSanti and will
pitch in college. The right-hander had a 2.72 ERA as a junior when
he went 2-0 with a save. Will be counted on as one of the top
starters for the Ramblers this season.
LACROSSE
Brian Dailey—University of Hartford. Heads to Division I Hartford
for lacrosse. He paced the Ramblers last season with 50 goals and
27 assists.
WRESTLING
Jake Gromacki—University of Pittsburgh. Will wrestle in the ACC
next season after topping the 100-win mark in his season. Career
record of 112-19, he currently wrestles at 120 pounds and projects
at 125 at Pitt. Finished eighth in the state as a freshman, sixth as a
sophomore and fourth as a junior.
HOCKEY
Brian Sienerth—Miami of Ohio. Though Brian did not play
hockey for Prep he was a highly recruited student-athlete and a
player drafted by the Otters. Played two seasons for the Pittsburgh
Penguins Elite, netting 85 goals. He will eventually play at D-I
power Miami on scholarship. Next season will be in the USHL for
Sioux Falls before heading to the Red Hawks.
SOCCER
Jake Duska—University of Michigan. Jake played soccer for two
years at Prep before heading for the U.S. Soccer Development
Academy in Cleveland the last two seasons, a year-round program
with 72 teams across the country. That participation prevented
him from playing for the Ramblers but he will head to Division I
next year.
A GREAT 2014 CLASSIC
A GREAT 2014 CLASSIC
In the title game of the 31stIn
Burger
the title game of the 31st Burger King Classic, Archbishop Carroll became the fifth PA school
King Classic, Archbishop Carroll
in the last six years to win the Classic as they blew out St. Rita's 64-38. Derrick Jones had 18
became the fifth PA school in the
points and 10 rebounds along with three thunderous dunks. Ernest Aflakpui had 16 points and
last six years to win the Classic
as they blew out Chicago St.nine
Ritarebounds for Carroll.
64-38. Derrick Jones had 18 points
and 10 rebounds along with three
thunderous dunks. Ernest Aflakpui
had 16 points and nine rebounds
for Carroll.
Prep struggled to shoot
all weekend and fell in the
consolation round of the Classic
to Villa Angela-St. Joe’s 64-46. The
Ramblers shot just 28% from the
floor and had only Matt Harris in
double figures with 11 points. The
Vikings were paced by superstar
Carlton Bragg, who had 24 points
and eight rebounds. Brian Parker
had 16 points and 10 rebounds.
The Classic tipped off on Friday,
January 17 with St. Rita’s and
Archbishop Carroll coming away
victorious. An 0-17 slump from the
field did in the host Ramblers as
they lost to Archbishop Carroll, 4735. Matt Harris and Matt Colpoys
each finished with 15 points for
Prep. The state’s number-one
ranked Patriots were led by Samir
Taylor and Austin Tilgman, who
each had 13. Derrick Jones finished
with 10.
In the first game, St. Rita’s hung
on for a 61-59 victory over VASJ to
slide into the championship game.
Major Division I recruit Charles
Matthews had 22 points and seven
rebounds in the win. Dominique
Matthews finished with 21 while
Victor Law had 12 points and 12
rebounds. Carlton Bragg led VASJ
with 20 points and 10 boards.
Prep struggled to shoot all
weekend
in the
consolation
round ofPreparatory
the ClassicSchool
to VASJ
SPRING
2014 and fell
The
Magazine
of Cathedral
436446. The Ramblers shot just 28% from the floor and had only Matt Harris in double figures with
PREP BASEBALL FROM
ARIZONA
Left: While in Arizona, the Cathedral Prep baseball team
took a time-out to enjoy the Giants/Diamondbacks game
at Chase Field.
Below: Don ’66 and Renee Felix hosted the Cathedral Prep
baseball team at their home in Mesa, Arizona.
RAMBLERS CONCLUDE A GREAT SEASON
ON THE ICE
PREP WON THEIR 12TH CONSECUTIVE
DISTRICT 10 SWIM TITLE THIS SEASON
For the second time in three years, the Prep hockey team
advanced to the Penguins Cup, the championship game in the
PIHL hockey conference. The final
contest in the west was played
on St. Patrick’s Day night in the
Consol Energy Center, home to
the Pittsburgh Penguins. In a
great battle the Ramblers fell to
Bishop Canevin 1-0.
Prep concluded an outstanding
season at 22-10-2. Goaltender
Grant Kennedy was awarded the
Badger Bob Johnson Character
Grant Kennedy ’14 with Head Coach
Craig Barnett.
Award. This honor is named after
legendary hockey coach Badger Bob Johnson, who coached for
many years in college hockey and the NHL, winning the Stanley
Cup as the head man of the Penguins
in 1991. He would later die from
brain cancer, but his well-known
catchphrase and memory live on
through the saying, “it’s a great day for
hockey.”
Congratulations to Grant, Head Coach
Craig Barnett and the entire Rambler
hockey team on a great season and a
final-four finish in the state.
44 SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
Cathedral Prep Swim Team.
The streak just keeps building as Prep won their 12th consecutive
District 10 swim title this season, besting McDowell by 107 points.
The 200 medley relay broke a D-10 record, backed by Rex Riley, Joe
Marin, Reid Morrison and Andrew Britton. Riley also set a District
mark in the 100 breast, he won the 200 IM and was part of the 400
free relay with Tom Squeglia, Stephen Bretz and Zach Miller. Miller
also won the 50 and 100 free as well as being in the 200 free relay.
Morrison won three events, including the 100 butterfly. Britton
and Squeglia also won a pair of relays for the Ramblers. Senior
Francis Kloecker set a school record in points and captured the
D-10 diving championship.
Where’s Your Prep Spirit? H
ow do you show your Prep Pride? If you have a photo
that might top the ones below, please send it to
advancement@prep-villa.com, and we’ll make sure to
include it in the next issue of the Cathedral Prep Magazine.
During football season, fans had the opportunity to
purchase giant Mike Mischler heads in Rambler Retail.
Although they were $19.99, we think they were priceless.
The main office, which used to have drab, neutral walls, now
features orange walls with life-size CP. Special thanks to Mr.
Rick Sienerth of Erie Technical Systems, Inc. who graciously
donated the metal CP.
CP made it to the Pegula Ice Arena “puck wall” at Penn State
University. The wall features youth hockey organizations
from around the state.
CP Grotto History Lesson
Mike Trott, a St. John Kanty Prep graduate from the Class of 1977,
sent us this photo of the Mary grotto from Kanty Prep’s 1975
yearbook. His brother, Matt Trott ’87 (CP), sent him a link to the
article about the Cathedral Prep grotto from the fall magazine.
The stones for the Cathedral Prep grotto are from the original St.
John Kanty Prep grotto. The last class to graduate from Kanty
Prep was in 1980. The building was eventually demolished.
The Cathedral Prep grotto is located in the south west corner of
Dollinger Field. The Grotto was donated by the David Strasser
family. The grotto is dedicated to Mary, Queen of Prep in honor of
teachers Mrs. Joann Mullen and Mr. Larry Krasinski. The grotto is a
living legacy in honor of these teachers who dedicated their lives
to Cathedral Prep.
In 2013, Prep was named a “Life-Saving School” by the
Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. The “Pennies for
Patients”drive was the most successful in school history.
Rev. Dan Reim ’80 expressed his gratitude:
I’m writing to congratulate Mr. Tony Parsons, the Key
Club and the entire Cathedral Prep community on
their successful drive for the Leukemia and Lymphoma
Society. November 2013 will mark forty years since I
was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. After
four years of treatment (including radiation treatment
that resulted in the loss of my hair while a student at
Prep) I have been cancer-free. It is because of the great
doctors and research centers, God’s grace, and people like
yourselves who sacrifice their time for the sake of others
that I am still on this planet.
The fact that Prep has been named a “Life-Saving School”
should make you all immensely proud. I am certainly very
grateful.
God’s Peace.
Rev. Dan Reim, S.J. ’80
Send your “Bragging Writes” to
advancement@prep-villa.com.
SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School 45
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 advancement@
prep-villa.com, and you could be next to grace the pages of the Magazine that is read by over 14,000
constituents!
Lenny Wallen ‘64 and Charley Augustine ‘55
enjoy sunshine in Marriott’s Ocean Club in
Aruba.
Owen ’30
and Anthony
Tellers ’28,
(sons of
Mike ’98 and
Alicia Tellers)
take a break
from the
sunshine at
Bonita Beach
to delve into their dad’s Cathedral Prep
Magazine.
Glynn Chase ‘70 and his
wife, Monica, at the Basilica
of St. Francis in Assisi,
Province of Umbria, Italy
on the occasion of their
35th wedding anniversary.
They are the proud parents
of Matthew, ‘99, Bradley,
‘03, and Craig, ‘05.
Conor ‘04, Barbara McNamara
‘74 (VMA) and Jim ‘67, stand in
front of the Bernina Express in
Chur, Switzerland.
Gary Lillis ’66 stands on his balcony in
Marco Island, FL with his two favorite
reads...the Cathedral Prep Magazine
and his published book, Wake Up And
Go To Sleep.
1970 classmates Mark Hedges,
Rich Bertges and Scott Ketchel
David DeSante ’59 atop Mount
at Camp Ketch-A-Buck,
Mitchell, Asheville, NC.
Pennsylvania.
Bob ’62 and Nancy
Dailey in Woerlitz Dassau
Germany.
Members from the Class of 1960 gather in Orlando to play
golf during the cold Arctic Vortex. Pictured are Randy Brown
(Academy), Rich Scolio, Mike DiMonaco, Chuck Agresti, Ed
Stuczynski , Tom Waldron, Larry Fatica and Dave Tullio.
Pete Grant ‘71 poses in front of the Hello Kitty
store, Tokyo Haneda Airport.
John Stanek ’84 and
Martha Barnett Stanek
’87 (VMA) in Stuttgart,
Germany, enjoying the
beer festival.
46 SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
Ryan Oldach’10
stands outside
the Vatican with
his Cathedral
Prep Magazine.
He is studying
architecture
at Penn State
University.
Craig Fiorenzo ‘67 and Greg Stiffler ‘73 visit the Silvestri
Crater on Mt. Etna, Sicily.
Bob ’60 and Nancy Schack
celebrate their 50th wedding
anniversary atop Stanserhorn
Mountain in Luzerne,
Switzerland.
Deangelo Malone ‘15 Jimmy Malone
‘12, and Anthony Malone ‘13 in
Riviera Maya, Mexico.
2002, Patrick McGill married Lauren Lee Tarantello on Sept.
14, 2013, at Our Lady Mount Carmel in Newport Beach. Fr.
Scott Jabo offi ciated. Several Prepsters were in attendance:
Kyle Schriefer ‘02, groomsman, Fr. Scott Jabo, President of
Cathedral Prep and Villa Maria Academy, Jim McNamara’67,
Patrick McGill ’02, William T. McGill, Lauren McGill, Ellen
McGill, Andrew McGill ‘03, best man, Connor McGill ‘05, best
man, Kyle DeDionisio ‘02, groomsman and Braden Byler ‘03.
In attendance but not pictured, Alexander Townsend, ‘02.
Francis D’Aurora ‘03 conquered Mt.
Kilimanjaro, the tallest mountain on the
African continent but not without his
Cathedral Prep Magazine.
Cheryl Dylewski Brzezinski ‘66
(VMA) and Ed Brzezinski ‘64
with their son Rob Brzezinski
‘88 in London, England on
9/28/13.
Jack Bertges ’68, Joe Kloecker ’70 and
Joe Zegarelli stand in Jack’s backyard in
Sonoma.
Ann (Lorei) Halupczynski ’79 (VMA),
Vinnie Halupczynski ’79, Sean
Halupczynski ’06 and Laura Halupczynski
’05 (VMA) stand in front of St. Peter’s
Basilica in Rome.
Brothers Pat O’Neil ’59
from Pennsylvania and Tim
’63 from Texas met up at
Edinboro Crossroad Dinor.
1977 classmates Danny Stefanowicz
and Mike Fox took their magazine
to the Notre Dame game at
Stanford in Palo Alto, CA.
Mary Beth and Brian Yeager ’81 and Anne
and Terry Yeager ’69 on Mount Pisgah in
North Carolina.
Brent Torchio ’12 and Nicholas Bird
’12 brought along the entire CP
Class of 2012 on spring break! They
vacationed in Bend, OR, to visit
Andrew ’03 and Philip ‘05 Torchio.
Dr. Carl R. Fuhrman ‘70
visiting Machu Picchu,
Peru (elevation 13,500
feet). Machu Picchu
is the “lost city of the
Inca’s”
and was only
discovered in 1911.
Members of the Class of 2005 took a ski trip to Breckenridge.
Craig Chase ‘05, Patrick Grab ‘05, Rob Hersch ‘05, Mike Grab
‘06, and Alex Keim ‘05 stand on the top of the highest ski lift in
North America.
SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School 47
In Case You Were Wondering…
The 1924 Football Team
C
athedral Prep football recently completed their 90th season of competition. There
have been many changes and differing eras of Prep football throughout the past nine
decades, but several characteristics of the 1924 team are still present in the heart and soul
of the program today as they were back then.
Prep football is very proud of where it has grown from its very humble roots. Today, the
program prides itself on its strong tradition and rich heritage. The program has grown
into a perennial state power and is recognized nationally as one of the top programs in the
country. While the 1924 roster included just over twenty players, the program is now as
healthy and thriving as ever with over 150 players signed up to play in the 2014 season –
over one-fourth of the entire school population participates in Prep football today.
The level of competition has certainly changed over the years as well. While the first
team played a humble schedule, it was still a very tough one for a first year team. That
first team was led by Coach Wilmot C. Quillman. They went a respectable 2-4-2 that first
season. Prep football – now a AAA school based on total enrollment – generally plays
national caliber competition in their independent schedule. They have come a long way
over the years. A credit not to just the current players and coaches, but also to the 1924
team members who were the pioneers of Prep football. The first Prep team played just
8 games, but today the team generally makes deep runs into the state playoffs, playing
14 or 15 games a season well into the month of December. The team has won two state
championships (2000 & 2012), being ranked as high as #2 in the country at the end of the
2000 season.
1924 (2-4-2)
October 5
October 14
October 20
October 25
October 29 November 7
November 11
November 22
Coach: Wilmot C. Quillman
Captain: George Murphy
L.............Wesleyville A.C. (4:00)...........................0-6..................A Suburban Field
L.............Central......................................................7-33................A Athletic Field
L.............East Reserves...........................................0-27 ...............H
St. Joe’s Orphanage
T.............Union City................................................0-0 .................A
West High St. Grounds
T.............Academy Reserves (11:00).....................6-6 .................A
Mehl Field
W...........Central Reserves......................................27-0................H
St. Joe’s Orphanage
W...........Albion (M)(U).........................................13-0................H
St. Joe’s Orphanage
L.............Academy (M)(R).....................................0-6 .................HStadium
Perhaps the greatest thing the 1924 team did was to provide
the Prep faithful – the student body – a taste of the game.
This yielded a sense of pride for the team and the school.
Cathedral Prep’s school spirit to this very day is unmatched
locally or even statewide. In fact the Prep cheering section
was recently rated one of the best student high school
sections in the country by USA Today. The author of the
Literulae “Foot-Ball” article in 1924 proudly points out that
every student would regularly attend the games – showing
their incredible school spirit—A characteristic that
remains today.
One thing is for sure, as Cathedral Prep’s football program
continues to work its way towards its 100th year of
competition, it will be a combination of the spirit of the past
with the current players and team respecting the traditions
of the program that will continue to make this one of the
best football programs in the nation. Toughness, pride, hard
work, dedication, loyalty and respect are the characteristics
that define the very foundation of the Cathedral Prep
football program…and they always will.
48 SPRING 2014 The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School
The Cathedral Prep Varsity Football Team.
Track Teams
Benefit from
Fitness Center
The Artic Vortex spoiled a
lot of runners’ winters with
the extreme plummeting
temperatures and massive
amounts of snow. The
Cathedral Prep and Villa
Maria Academy Track and
Cross County Teams didn’t let
Mother Nature rain on their
parade. The teams benefitted
from the VMA Fitness Center this winter, while other teams
struggled to continue training.
The VMA Fitness Center features treadmills, ellipticals, recumbent
bikes and strength-training equipment. The students were grateful
to have such a beautiful facility to condition in.
This winter has been especially challenging for students from the
western part of the state due to incredibly cold temperatures and
so much snow. Head Track Coach Chet Moffett said, “The fitness
center has been very beneficial to our indoor track and field team;
we don’t have indoor facilities at Prep, and the fitness center allows
our distance runners to train through inclement weather. We are
so appreciative of the athletic administration at the school and the
faculty and staff of Villa Maria Academy who sacrifice their time to
allow our young men and women an opportunity to practice.”
Therese Brown, VMA Head Cross Country Coach, is very thankful
as well. She said, “Our team has survived and has thrived—thanks
in large part to being able to use these treadmills most days aside
from our weekly trip out to an indoor track at Spire in Ohio.”
Brown is thankful that her team has the fitness center to take
advantage of. She said, “Without the fitness center, Prep and
Mark Your
Calendar
May
Villa would not have been able to field our middle distance and
distance corps during this year’s indoor track season. Due to the
extreme cold temperatures and snow-covered roads, we were
unable to train outside. In order to race longer distances, it is
imperative that we are able to train at longer distances. Four to
five days a week, we had those ten treadmills going nonstop after
school – even training in shifts to fit in workouts for all the boys
and girls.”
Coaches at different meets would tell Brown about their teams’
inability to train properly through the winter. Brown said, “As a
coach, I was so very thankful for the amazing resources available to
our athletes. Thanks to our fitness room, our middle distance group
set new school records, medaled at states, and are well-prepared to
springboard into a successful spring track season for Prep and Villa.”
Brown takes coaching her team very seriously. She said, “I cannot
thank the donors of our fitness room enough. I can come up with
workout plans, race strategies, etc. But all of that means nothing
if the kids have nowhere to train. I feel like we lived in the fitness
room this winter using the treadmills, ellipticals, bikes, and weight
equipment.”
Rambler
retail
Cathedral preparatory
school
225 West Ninth St
Erie, Pa 16501
Home of Rambler
2013 Football State Champions
28
Baccalaureate
ONLINE: WWW.PREP-VILLA.COM
June
1 Graduation
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July
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The Magazine of Cathedral Preparatory School 49
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