EmpireTHThe Official Magazine of Alumni, Family, and Friends of

Roman Catholic High School

SPRING 2010

BROTHERLY LOVE

The Cahillites Welcome the Falcons and Cardinals ofNortheast Catholic and Cardinal Dougherty High Schools

2 Roman Catholic High School

Catholic High AlumniBrothers for Life

President/RectorRev. Joseph W. Bongard '77

PrincipalMr. Robert P. O'Neill

Alumni AssociationPresident

Mr. Lawrence J. Elliott '66

Director of Insitutional AdvancementMs. Denise LePera

Director of DevelopmentMs. Ann Vassallo

Director of Marketing

Mr. Steven M. Ziegler '04

Coordinator of Development ServicesMs. Bernadine Mahon

BookkeeperMrs. Lisa Wolfington

Contributors

Rev. Joseph W. Bongard '77Dennis DiGiovanni'02Lawrence J. Elliott '66Thomas Grady '42Robert FoxMatthew Lieber '10Jack Rooney '40Steven Rynkewitz '69Patrick Smith '77

Cover Photo Courtesy of John W. Pensabene

Editor: Steve Ziegler '04

Thank to you all the Cahillites who send in their Class Notes for each issue.

Table of Contents

Notables.................................................pg. 4

To and From..........................................pg. 5

SHOF.....................................................pg. 7

Cahillites ComingTogether...............................................pg. 11

Does America Still Have Heroes?................................................pg. 12

Romauction.........................................pg. 13

Brotherly Love....................................pg. 14

Hardwood Honors...............................pg. 16

Reunions..............................................pg. 17

Regional Reunions..............................pg. 18

Brothers for Life..................................pg. 19

The Usuals

From the Deskof the Rector..........................................pg. 3

Athletics................................................pg. 5

Around Roman......................................pg. 8

Class Notes.........................................pg. 10

A Message from the Alumni President...........................pg. 15

Mea Culpa

In our last issue, the article "It Began In a Bowling Alley" incorrectly listed Ted Hoffman as a member of the Class of 1958 when in fact he graduated in 1957.

NecrologyFriends & FamilyGeraldine E. Bates Wife of William ’57George J. Beerley Grandfather of Ryan ’10 & Sean ’10Reverend Herman J. Brinkmann Brother of John ’57 & Joseph ’57 Wendell Buzby Uncle of Ann Vassallo, Director of DevelopmentLynne Cahill Sister-in-Law of Jack Clark ’64Patricia A. Coleman Wife of Thomas ’57Lucille M. Connor Mother of John ’84Helen A. Conrad Wife of Paul ’48John E. Cupchak Father of John (Barry)’69, Father-in-law of Michael Harrell ’85 Elias Dungca Grandfather of Alex Hartzag ’12Thaddeus A. Kaminski Father of Francis ’79 & Thaddeus ’82Rose Konowal Mother of Richard ’76 Grandmother of Richard ’10 Hugh ‘Buddy’ Magee Brother of Dennis ’74 Nancy M. Mahoney Mother of James ’67 Eugene B. Maloney Father of Eugene ’71 Karen A. MarkeyWife of Lawrence ’71Mother of Robert ’93 & Larry ’95 Rose A. McClaffertyGrandmother of Patrick ’03 & Mother of Barry, Past President, RCHS Father’s Club Frances M. McNally Grandmother of James ’00 & Brendan ’04 Dorothy A. Menardi Mother of Eugene ’45 Florence Nagle Mother of Furman ’55 Thomas Palagruto Grandfather of Thomas ’08 & Peter ’11 Margaret T. Pelullo Mother of Paul ’72Grandmother of Paul ’07 Ruth Rutkowski Mother of David ’68, Dennis ’72,&Paul ’77William Schafer Father of William ’77, Grandfather of Luke Lahann '11Francis P. Thomas, Jr. Father of Francis Thomas III ’75 and Bishop Daniel E. Thomas ’77, Auxiliary Bishop of PhiladelphiaMark Ueland, AIA Friend of Roman Catholic High SchoolJoseph L Vetter Former RCHS Football Coach

AlumniJames J. Sweeney ’31 Francis Tumelty ’32 Leonard J. Prodoehl ’37 James J. Leonard ’38 Martin Corcoran ’39 Charles Devine ’40 John J. Regan ’40 Edward J. Querner ’41 John J. Gilmartin ’42 Henry R. Spaventa ’42 Harry F. Vizzard ’44 Russell J. Hughes ’44 Rt. Rev. Edward C. Campbell ’44 Robert J. Sweigard ’45 Edward D. Lahiff ’47 Leo Alfred Dzwil ’47 Samuel T. Bacica ’47 Joseph F. Monahan ’47 John C. Valley ’47 Frederick Duden ’49 Walter A. Richman ’50 Frank J. Ming ’50 Anthony J. Scarpiello ’51 Joseph F. Curtin ’51 James P. Campbell ’52 James Hartey ’53 Gerald L. Bowen, Esq. ’53 William P. McMonagle ’53 Arthur L. Beswick ’53 Robert Mullen ’55 Edward Gartland ’56 Robert V. Donohue ’56 Edward P. Lavelle ’58 J. Raymond McGill, Esq. ’58 Paul J. Roman, Sr. ’59 Robert J. Hannigan ’60 Jerome P. Judge ’63 John L. Haley ’64 David S. Kilkenny ’64 Jack Manni ’64 James R. Shuler ’67 Robert Benincasa ’68 Edward J. Patton ’69 Francis Gromelski ’69 Gerald F. Melusky ’69 John J. O’Neill ’71 Anthony Ragni ’72 Robert T. Murray ’77 James Westerfer ’83 Richard A. Kajkowski ’06 Shawn A. Murray ’12

Please keep the families of these deceased Alums and friends of Catholic High in your prayers.

Every attempt is made to keep an accurate list our deceased. Please

contact 215.627.5487 with any corrections or additions.

From the Desk of the Rector3 The Empire

(Rev.) Joseph W. Bongard '77Rector

Dear Alumni & Friends of RCHS-

As you may be aware, the year 2010 marks the 120th Anniversary of our founding. Over the last century plus twenty, our school has had a major impact on the lives of thousands of students, who have walked the corridors, learned in the classrooms, and played on the courts and fields. In turn, graduates have made their mark as faithful husbands, devotedfathers, and good friends. Roman alums have taken their place amongthe movers and shakers in the business and civic communities, in neighborhoods, in academia as well as in leadership in the Church. We have such a unique and wonderful legacy and tradition to celebrate.

Thomas Cahill started it all! He was, in many ways an incredible man. He had a natural business acumen, which allowed him to see opportunities where others saw problems. Facing difficult economic times, he worked tirelessly at his businesses, and by many measures achieved success as one of the wealthiest businessmen in Philadelphia. Yet, Cahill was a man who was motivated not by greed but by his faith. His desire to make a lot of money was rooted in his desire to build-up the Catholic faith. He was a member of Saint Patrick’s parish on Rittenhouse Square, and it has been said, he would never miss Mass on Sunday. Cahill’s life was animated by his devotion to our Lord and His Church.

We, as Sons of Cahill, are to be found throughout our nation, in every walk of life, in numerous positions and occupations. Think of the impact we could have on our communities if we were to model in our lives, the life of Thomas Cahill by attending Mass on Sunday, receiving the sacrament of reconciliation regularly, and developing a strong prayer-life. Cahill yearned to advance the Mission of the Catholic Church through a strong work-ethic and a determination to help others with compassion and humility. How much our country needs to see these virtues in the home, in the work-place, in the boardrooms, in the halls of Congress. It all begins with us and with our relationship with the Lord. What better way to celebrate the 120th Anniversary of our beloved school, than to be true to our founder by taking up the challenge of being authentic witnesses of the Truth!

Let it be our common prayer during this Anniversary year that the mission of our school, to advance the Gospel of Christ, will be lived in the hearts of all Cahillites, past and present!

4 Roman Catholic High School

NOTABLESLearned

HandThomas A. Leonard, Esq. '64(pictured right) was recently honored by the American Jewish Committee of Philadelphia/Southern New Jersey with the 2010 Learned Hand Award. The Learned Hand award was established in memory of Judge Learned Hand, Senior Judge of the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit from 1924 to 1951. This award is presented to outstanding leaders in the legal profession who exemplify the high principles for which Judge Learned Hand was renowned. The award recognizes the contributions of those who have distinguished themselves through their professional achievements, and their dedicated leadership and commitment to the community.

High NoteThe following students of the RCHS Music

Program received All-Catholic honorsCHORUS:James Corcoran '13William Guy '11Michael Bryan '10

ALL CITY BAND:Matthew Johnston '10- First Chair SaxophoneTimothy Tiu '10- First Chair Flute Section

ALL CATHOLIC JAZZ BAND:Edward Bianculli '10Nichola Christman '10

Class of 2014 Scholarship Recipients

On Wednesday, February 3, 2010, the top Scholarship Recipients of the Class of 2014 were honored with a reception in Renaissance Hall.

The incoming freshman class of 2014 comes from more than 100 different elementary schools. Roman's diverse geographic population can attributed to an education that is renowned second to none

Over 500 students took the entrance exam for Roman Catholic in the Fall. A freshman class of 265 students is anticipated.

Pictured Below: The Future of Roman Catholic High School.

ALUMNI CALENDARMarch 6 Romauction – Silent Auction, Dinner and Live Auction RCHS Cafeteria and Gymnasium ~ 5 – 11 p.m. March 25 Center City Alumni Regional Reunion Finnigan’s Wake, 3rd & Spring Garden Streets 6 – 9 p.m. MUST BE 21 TO ATTEND March 27 Texas Hold ‘Em Tournament and Dinner RCHS Cafeteria ~ 12 – 5 p.m.April 9 Sports Hall of Fame Awards Dinner Williamson’s, Horsham, PA ~6:00 p.m. April 10 “The Geator with the Heater” – Jerry Blavat Dance Night RCHS ~7 – 11 p.m. April 19Henry Zakzrewski Golf Outing Plymouth Meeting Country Club, 10:30 A. M. Registration, 12 Noon StartApril 29Roxborough Alumni Regional Event Great American Pub, Conshohocken, PA 6 – 9 p.m. MUST BE 21 TO ATTENDMay 11 Cahill Cup Classic The ACE Club, Lafayette Hill, PA ~ Shotgun Start 1 p.m. May 14 Alumni Golf Outing Cancelled (see pg.6 for details ) May 26 Founder’s Day Award Ceremony Keenan’s, Roxborough ~6 p.m. May 27 South Jersey Alumni Regional Event Connie Mac’s, Pennsauken, NJ 6 – 9 p.m. MUST BE 21 TO ATTEND June 5 Cahill Chance Drawing McSherry Annex, 324 N. 13th Street 12:30 pm June 28 John Hoban, Jr ’59 Golf Outing Centre Square Golf Course, Norristown, PA 8:30 A.M. Shotgun StartAugust 1 Day at the Bay NOTE: Pre-sales and Pre-registration proceeds benefit RCHSReserve your ticket soon!Keenan’s, N. Wildwood, NJ ~ 2 – 7 pm

BAND:Matthew Johnston '10Timothy Wylesol '10Edward Bianculli '10 Nicholas Christman '10Michael Stanley '11David Szczepanski '11

5 The Empire

To and From - The Voices of Catholic High

Words of Wisdom Dear Editor:I look forward to The Empire and seeing the great things that are happening at Roman.

There is also always something about someone I remember from the “good old days.” A past issue featured my friend and classmate, Jim McSherry, who was always so dedicated to our Alma Mater and helped keep the rest of us involved. I also recall Ed Loebly who was mentioned as part of the A.S.I.S.T program, giving back to today’s students.

When I graduated from Roman, I didn’t think I could afford to go to college, but with help and encouragement from faculty I found I could. Later, under the G.I. bill I went on to a Ph.D. and a career in teaching and counseling. As a way of passing on my experience to current high school students, I have recently written a book designed to help students select a college that is a good fit for them, help them get the aid they need and help them get the most out of their college experience. My coauthor is a retired accounting professor who is well versed in the intricacies of scholarships, assistantships, loans, work-study programs, savings plans and tax breaks.

The book is: Preparing for College: Practical Advice for Students and Their Families. Rooney, John J. and Reardon, John F., Ferguson Books, NY 2009. In addition to the hardback, it is available in a low-priced paperback edition.I hope it will benefit our current high school students, maybe not in getting into Harvard, but in something better: getting into a college that is right for them.

My best to all at RCHS. Jack Rooney ‘40

Posthumous DegreeDear Fr. Bongard,

My family and I would like to express to you and the staff at Roman Catholic my sincere appreciation for the ceremony awarding my father George Fox '46 his posthumous high school diploma. Reading his biography and handing my brother Joseph the diploma was a touching tribute to a man who meant so much to us who attended the ceremony. The staff as well as you did an outstanding job making my family feel welcome during the National Honor Society ceremony. Thanks again for a job well done!

Regards,Robert Fox

Thank You

The Voice of a Roman Man by Matt Lieber '10Without a doubt, the greatest achievement of my life was being accepted to Roman Catholic High School. Without this achievement, I would not be the person I am today or have the motivation to be the person I am going to be. The deci-sion to go to Roman was not an easy one; I received a scholarship to Roman for half of my tuition, but I received a full scholarship to [another Catholic High School]. While at Roman I changed drastically. Never had I been involved with community service; I lived life individualistically. However, when I entered Roman, I felt a desire to get involved and stamp my name into the history of this prestigious school. I began to get my feet wet in numerous clubs, thanks to the help of my brothers who were seniors and sophomores, and get a feel of the spirit that is Roman. From that moment on, I have been heavily involved in school functions, not for glory or recognition but for inner satisfaction; to know that I am contributing to something that many people take for granted. It is a humbling experience to be involved, plan, and organize an event just so people do not notice all the effort put into it. Do I think my name is stamped into the history of Roman? That is not for me to answer. However, I know that Roman has stamped its name onto who I am and what I have become.

I would very much like to thank the Alumni of Roman Catholic High for all of your efforts and support for helping me to attain my goals. These grants are helping my parents afford a Catholic education. I will be graduating in 2012 and Roman is a great place to spend my high school years. Last year, I was involved with the Community Service Corps and Student Council. Currently, I am a member of the ambassadors. I have learned leadership here and what it means to be part of a brotherhood. I once again thank you for this tuition assistance as I continue to strive for perfection in my work and in my school.

Sincerely,“Chris ’12”

6 Roman Catholic High School

Dennis DiGiovanni '02Athletic Director

ATHLETICS

BasketballCoach Chris McNesby’s Varsity Basketball team is currently competing for a #1 or #2 seed in the Red Division. As of this writing, they have a league regular season record of 7-2 including a huge win over St. Joseph’s Prep. The Varsity team will look to continue their successful season when they begin their playoff run in the middle of February and their state championship run in March. The Cahillites are led by senior Rakeem Brookins ‘10, Kevin Regan ’10 and Anthony Mayo ’10.

Indoor TrackUnder the direction of second-year head coach and alumnus, David Robinson ’00, Roman Catholic High School Indoor Track is making some noise in the Philadelphia Catholic League. Their youth and hard work has them excelling to the top of league. They are led by Richard Gatewood ’12 and Daryl Mintz ’12.

BowlingThe Roman Catholic Bowling team is having another very successful season. The team finished the regular season in second place and is looking to secure the first bowling championship for Roman in years. They are under the direction of first year head coach, Joe Wildes '74. They are led by Joe Wolfington ’10, Tyler Nocella ’10, Rashaan Hale ’11, Chris DeMayo ’12, and Tom McGuinn ’12. Read about Joe Wolfington's perfect game on page 8.

WrestlingThe Roman Catholic Wrestling team is having another strong season under Coach Waverly Lane. Seniors Tom Desiderio ’10, Mike Gritsko ’10 and Sean McGinley ’10 are tremendous leaders both on and off the mat. Coach Lane and his staff look forward to the post-season push with the young group of talent they have.

SwimmingThe Roman Catholic Swim team is having another successful season under Coach Mike Womelsdorf and his assistant Kathy Womelsdorf. Through hard work and dedication, the swim team recorded its first ever victory against Archbishop Ryan and they also won a tough match against Monsignor Bonner. The team could be on track to record its first winning season! They are led by seniors Gabe Keown ’10 and Paul Dunne ’10, as well as junior Luke Lahann ’11 and freshman Dan Slivjak ’13.

Ice HockeyThe experienced Roman Catholic Varsity Hockey team has dominated this year. Led by Dave Hayes ’10, Matt Pemper ’10 and Joe Urban ’11, the Cahillites have once again been a tough team to compete against in their division. The Cahillites look to capture their first championship since the year 2000! Good Luck Roman Catholic Ice Hockey.

River Field. 23rd and The Benjamin Franklin Parkway

A Cahillite Tradition Comes to an EndThe annual Alumni Golf Outing held at Mainland Golf Course will not be held this year. The golf committee regrets this announcement, but recommends all the alumni regulars consider playing in the Henry Zakrzewski Golf Outing on April 19, 2010 or the John Hoban, Jr. '59 Memorial Tournament scheduled for June 28, 2010. Thanks to all the Cahillites and their guests who made this outing an awesome social and financial success for well over 25 years.

7 The Empire

SHOF 20th AnniversarySPORTS HALL OF FAME CELEBRATES THEIR TWENTIETH YEAR OF RECOGNIZING

ROMAN’S FINEST ATHLETES

On April 9, 2010, the Sports Hall of Fame committee will host their twentieth Induction Ceremony and Awards Banquet at William-sons' Restaurant, Horsham, PA from 5:45 until 10 PM to honor the Class of 2010 into the Hall and bestow four special awards.

CLASS OF 2010 INDUCTEES Dave Schafer Class of 1939 Football, Basketball & TrackJohn Taylor Class of 1948

Football (Posthumously)Tom Adams Class of 1953

Track & Cross CountryThe 1962 Track Team

Mark Fittery Class of 1974 Soccer & Football

Marc Cobbs Class of 1991 Track & Field

Ryan Kearney Class of 1995 Ice Hockey

1996 Basketball TeamLuke McKenna Class of 1997

Track & Football (Posthumously)Rasual Butler Class of 1998

Basketball

SPECIAL AWARD RECIPIENTS

John J. Hoban, Sr. ’35 Memorial Award for Meritorious Service

Dennis HillNortheast Catholic High School * Class of 1967

Secretary – William B. Markward Basketball Club

Joseph “Goldie” Graham ’33 Memorial Award for Loyalty

Ed Keenan '54Director of ASIST Program at Roman

Building and Grounds Chair, Executive Committee of the Board of Trustees

William “Speedy” Morris ’60 Community Sports Award

Kevin SmithFormer President of the Roxborough Eagles Athletic Association

John J. Gillen ’33 Memorial Inter-League Award

Bill GallagherFather Judge High School * Class of 1968Head Football Coach – Episcopal Academy

Former Head Football Coach at Penn Charter and Springfield HS

For tickets and information please contact the Pat Smith

Class of 1977 Chairman

RCHS Sports Hall of Fame215.627.5487 ext. 314

McCourt '01 Named Decade's BestIt has been said time and again that Cahillites always find their way home. For Joe McCourt ’01, it is almost as though he never left. However, instead of navigating the football field where he once served as the most dominant multipurpose player in the Catholic League, he is now guiding a new generation of athletes through their time at Roman Catholic As history shows, he is certainly the man qualified to do so.

Nine years after graduating from Roman Catholic, McCourt has been named by The Phila-delphia Daily News as the City Player of the 2000s. During his time at Catholic High, McCourt rushed for a school record of 3,315 yards and 38 touchdowns as running back. He also caught 53 passes for 769 yards and 6 touchdowns. In 1999, the Daily News deemed him Catholic League Player of the Year as he led the Cahillites to their first championship victory in 52 years.

McCourt went on to play the position of tailback for Lafayette; earning Rookie of the Year honors in 2002, scoring 15 touchdowns in 2003 (second-highest in Lafayette history), and was named Tri-State Player of the Year in 2004. By the end of his senior season, McCourt had racked up 4,474 rushing yards making him Lafayette’s second all-time leading rusher and the Patriot League’s fourth.

With two seasons under his belt, McCourt is looking to come full circle and add one more championship to the trophy case, this time as head coach.

Above: Joe McCourt '01 during one of many record-setting performances on the gridiron

8 Roman Catholic High School

AROUNDPerfection

On Tuesday, January 5th, Joe Wolfington '10 led the Cahillites to victory over Cardinal O'Hara High School by bowling a perfect 300 game. Wolfington is the only Cahillite in Roman's history to bowl a perfect game while bowling in a Catholic League match. His 300 game gave Roman the win in a tough match with a total pin count of 3,092-3,069 as Wolfington threw a 739 series. Congratulations to Joe on such a tremendous and rare feat. Pictured left: Joe Wolfington '10 and proud coach Joe Wildes '74 at Hi-Spot Lanes in Roxborough.

Can't Be StoppedIf you picked up a newspaper during the SEPTA strike in the fall, chances are you saw Roman Catholic High School mentioned. For a school where over 90% of the students rely on public transportation, one would imagine that this strike would have been an enormous problem. However, Roman's average daily attendance rate is 96% and during the strike, the lowest it fell was 94%. One Cahillite, DeSean Fennell '12 hiked 8 miles to school and was interviewed by FOX 29, The Philadelphia Inquirer, and The Catholic Standard and Times. He said to the Inquirer, "The strike pretty much affects my whole life." But the 16-year-old All-Catholic tennis player would not let the strike stop his perfect attendance or his practice. Fennell trekked from Roman to Arthur Ashe Playground in East Falls for practice, then to his home in North Philadelphia, and then back to Broad and Vine in the morning, furthering the point that nothing can stop a determined Cahillite.

Clowning AroundEach year, Roman students volunteer at the Cardinal’s Christmas Party, an Archdiocesan event that provides Christmas gifts to underprivileged elementary school children in the City of Philadelphia. Cahillites are the men called on to carry the bags as Santa’s helpers and distribute them to the children. This year, a few young men were asked to do a little more. The annual event, complete with a Nativity scene, clowns, jugglers, and even a stilt-walker would have lost some of its magic had there not been a large number of Cahillites on hand. When some volunteers were missing, Roman students took up the cause to ensure entertainment was provided by dressing as clowns, reindeer, as well as Christmas and Nativity scene characters.

Pictured right: Christopher Rodolico ’10, John Dugan ’10, and Ricky Chiu ’10 in their full clown make-up at the Cardinal’s Christmas Party.

9 The Empire

ROMAN

A Visit from a Few of the ProudJr. AOH/Respect

Life ClubThe Respect Life and Patrick Kerr AOH Division of Catholic High hit the ground running this year.

The groups had the pleasure of attending a Pro-Life Conference hosted by Roman Catholic High School on October 3rd 2009.

Father Bongard celebrated mass at Holy Redeemer Church in Chinatown. After Mass all in attendance had brunch and had the honor of hearing Father John Raphel the principal of St. Augustine High School in New Orleans speak. This was truly a treat as the membership enjoyed the entire day. Father John was very inspiring to say the least! Both the clubs ran canned good drives and a clothing drive. All the items collected were given to St John’s Hospice and the Veterans Multi Service Center. The boys helped out at the Hospice one afternoon by cooking, serving, and eating with the clients at the Hospice. The roast beef dinner with all the trimmings was well received by the men who were very grateful. The Pro Life group represented the school at the annual Pro Life Leadership Day out at Archbishop Carroll High School.

Any Alumni or student interested in helping or tagging along to see what the groups are about are always welcome. Please contact John Riley '85 - 215.601.5836

Just before the Christmas holiday, Cahillites who are starting their careers in the Marine Corps visited Roman to speak to some current student about pursuing a career in the service. Each year, approximately 2% of the graduating seniors follow the call to serve the United States in the armed forces.

We salute these young men and wish them success as Marines.

Pictured below: PFC Michael Blake ’08, RCHS Principal Robert P. O'Neill, Sgt. Christopher Kellam, and PFC Matthew Leposki ’06

Antarctic ExcursionOn December 17, 2009, the Keystone State Boychoir departed for a tour of Chile and Antartica with two Cahillites along for the ride of a lifetime. Senior Tom Bertolino ’10 and his brother, incoming freshman, Eric ’14 of Holy Spirit school in South Philadelphia, embarked on a tour of Chile to partake in the celebration of the country’s 200th Anniversary. They also took a one-day excursion to Chile’s Frei Base on King George Island, Antartica where they sang for scientists from several countries.

One of the program’s founders said, “To the best of our knowledge, our concert in Antarctica will be the first choral event to take place on the seventh continent. We’re honored to represent not only the United States, but children’s choirs around the world, by bringing the choral art to Antarctica.” To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time anyone from Catholic High so proudly represented the Cahillites on the continent as well.

Pictured right: Tom Bertolino '10 and Eric Bertolino '14 flinging their banner of Purple and Gold in Antartica.

10 Roman Catholic High School

CLASS NOTES1935Hector L. DiGiacomo sends his appreciation to Roman Catholic High School, his teachers, classmates, and members of the Alumni Association for his successes in life and in his career. Please keep Hector in your prayers as he was physically unable to attend the Communion Breakfast this past year after faithfully doing so for five decades.

1942Harry J. Moore is still running and biking. Harry helped a friend fly his airplane back east from South Dakota this summer.

1944Thomas G. Doyle retired from the Beck Co., a graphic arts business, in 1991 after 38 years as Traffic Manager and Purchaser. Thomas has five children and is the Corresponding Secretary of the “50-Plus Club,” a fraternity of people who worked in the printing trades. The club meets twice a year to rehash the past. Thomas now resides in Willingboro, NJ with the love of his life, Ann Sullivan.

John B. Winkler and his wife, Peggy, attended the graduations of three grandchildren in the summer of 2009. He and Peggy drove 7500 miles traveling to Colorado and California for the graduations and then drove 9,700 miles between Colorado, California, and Oregon for the weddings of three grandchildren. In May 2008, John and Peggy moved from Daytona Beach to Ann’s Choice in Warminster.

1946James J. O’Neill has been a retired lieutenant of the Philadelphia Police Department for thirty years and a retired instructor from Holy Family University for twenty-seven. James is currently working as a count expert.

1947William Barrett was recognized as a finalist by Catholic Charities USA in their 2009 Volunteer of the Year Awards. For 35 years, Bill has been feeding thousands of homeless individuals at St. John’s Hospice, just a short walk from Broad and Vine.

1949John J. Felthaus, Jr. is still singing with the Pine Barons Barbershop Chorus and is still available for entertainment.

1950Andrew M. Jurek belongs to a theater group known as “The Way-Off Broadway Players” in Holiday City, Williamstown, NJ. He performs in shows once a year at Holiday City which include musicals, comedies, murder mysteries, and dramas. This is Andrew’s 10th year performing and he is having lots of fun doing so.

1952Joe Roddy has written a self published book;Growing Up in Heaven, an Irish immigrant family's journey as members of St. Columba Parish in the Swampoodle section of Philadelphia. The book should be available this month. Anyone interested may contact Joe (941)-484 0285, jmj210@verizon.net

1953Tom Wacker served in the United States Coast Guard for four years after graduation before working for McKesson Programming for 40 years. Tom is retired and living in a retirement community in Redoma Vil-lage.

1956John J. Hopkins, Jr. celebrated 50 years of marriage on June 27, 2009. John and his wife Leah have four children, two boys and two girls, and four grandchil-dren, four boys and four girls. John still considers mar-rying Leah as the best decision he made in his life.

1958Joe Javie attended the Temple – Army game with Tom Kearney ’58. Joe had an excellent twenty-five year career in the United States Army after graduating from West Point in 1963.

Frank Matyskiela participated in the 2009 Senior Olympics at Stanford in August, 2009 in the demon-stration sport of Lawn Bowling. Frank is getting very good at the local “green” in Palo Alto, CA.

Pat O'Callahan was unable to attend the Communion Breakfast due to back surgery. Please keep Pat in your prayers.

1959Francis C. Flynn was unable to attend the Commu-nion Breakfast, but sends his congratulations to the ’59 Reunion Committee on a “super job” and commends them for the time and effort they put into the events in the Fall.

Joe Weber had a great experience seeing so many classmates at the ’59 Reunion Weekend in September. The visit by former faculty members Sid Mace and Coach Fran McMenamin made it even better. Thanks to all team members, Fr. Bongard, and student Ambas-sadors, and Alumni Office staff for helping to make this special weekend a grand success!

1960George Britner is a retired Philadelphia Police Officer and Security Consultant. He spends his summers in Avalon, NJ and eight weeks of the winter in Ft. Mey-ers, FL. George says it is great to be retired so he can roll over, turn the alarm clock off, and go back to sleep.

1964Michael P. Cooney returned from Ireland where he was doing research for his third “Mickey Devlin Novel,” Dublin Odyssey. It will be published in late 2010. Mike’s second book, Children of the Clan was available as of January, 2010.

1966Raymond Parrillo has been a sports writer for the Philadelphia Inquirer for twenty-six years.

1969Rick Maruski is the manager at MAACO on Frankford Avenue in Philadelphia. He is always glad to see RCHS Alumni and is also the President of the Durning String Band, based in NJ.

Ed Patton celebrated his birthday on October 25th at the Havertown Fire Department Hall with a surprise party thrown by his daughter, Colleen. Ed is recovering from treatment and thanks all his classmates for their prayers. He and his wife are looking forward to their third grandchild due in a few months.

1970David Wyrwas was named President of Specialty Benefits at Glatfelter Insurance Group. He previ-ously served as President of VFIS for 7 years. David’s daughter, Andrea, received her Masters Degree from Leslie University, Cambridge, MA.

1974Dr. Vincent Levito is a Dentist who operates his own practice in Norristown, Pa. His office is on Markley St. between Johnson Hwy. and Logan St. If former classmates are in the area stop in to say hello to Vince.

1976Gerald Joseph Fox, Sea Isle City’s finest Barefoot Runner, sends his greeting to all RCHS Alumni. Gerald thanks his mother, Joan Marie Hewitt (Fox) for his Roman education. Joan entered eternity on March 9, 2004 and lives on through Gerald as she loved the ocean. Gerald is to wed Anne Marie Shannon in the summer of 2010 hopefully at St. Joseph’s in Sea Isle City.

1979Anthony D. Williams is currently serving as special agent in charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration Office in San Francisco, CA. His contact number is 415.436.7782.

1991Bill Green and his wife, Melissa, have two children: William Patrick (2 ½) and Vanessa (1 yr.) Bill is a Senior Credit Specialist for Wells Fargo and now resides in Warminster, PA.

1997Albert Lee is working as a tour guide for the City of Philadelphia. He was profiled in a September issue of the Philadelphia Inquirer where he was dubbed “Mr. Philadelphia.”

11 The Empire

2004Charron Fisher was the MVP of basketball during his senior year at Roman. He graduated from Niagara University in 2008 and is now playing professional basketball overseas in the Baltic League. Charron hopes all is well with his classmates and everyone at RCHS.

2005Christian Bratton graduated from College of the Holy Cross in May, 2009 with his degree in Spanish. He is continuing his studies in Philadelphia and coaching the Roman freshman/novice crew team.

Andrew G. Kerr graduated from the United States Navy in May. He is an Ensign in the Navy and is stationed in Charleston, SC at the Nuclear Power School.

2006Nick Magenta, a two-time All-Catholic for Roman has been a regular contributor to the Millersville University Marauders golf team captured first place at the WJU Invitational contested at Moundsville Country Club in Moundsville, W.Va in September. This is his first collegiate win as an individual. Magenta is one of five Cahillite alums in recent years that have or are currently playing collegiate golf.

Let us Hear From You!

Send your Class Notes toMr. Steve Ziegler '04

Director of MarketingRoman Catholic High School

301 N. Broad StreetPhiladelphia, PA 19107

orsziegler@cahillite.com

CAHILLITES COMING

TOGETHER

Pictured Right: Joe Horn '12 and Bishop Daniel

Thomas '77 , Brothers for Life, separated only by class

year.

2007Daniel Bratton is a Junior at Marietta College and has been a member of the Varsity Rowing team for 2 years. As an economics major, Daniel completed an internship with the Disney College Program in Walt Disney World in Orlando, FL. In January, he returned to Marietta to continue his studies and rowing.

Matt Meier made All-Conference for the second year in a row playing soccer for Gwynedd-Mercy College.

2008David James Kerr is in his second year at Temple University.

Christopher Klarich is attending the University of Dayton.

Dear RCHS Alumni, [Left] is a picture of Scott Paxson ’01 and myself at Beaver Stadium during the Penn State-Ohio State football game on November 7, 2009. I work the field entrance at Beaver Stadium during the football season. It was with a great deal of pride that I was able to follow fellow Cahillite Paxson during his time at Penn State. It is so very good to see him on his visits back.

Best wishes,Steve Rynkewitz ’69

PSU ’73PSU-Med ’75

Above: The Class of 1942 still fondly recalls the 65th Reunion Luncheon held at the Frankford Torresdale Country Club in May 2007.

Pictured: Bill Kays, Frank McCarthy*, Frank McCoy, Charlie Driscoll, Bill Gannon, Jim Brady, Tony Durkin, Jim McCool, Bill Harper*, Al Muller*, Fred Crean, John Kane, Vince Krout, Tom Grady, Charlie Dietzler.

*Deceased

12 Roman Catholic High School

Does America Still Have Heroes? by: James Corcoran '13

The following essay written by freshman James Corcoran '13 won the VFW "Voice of Democracy" Essay Contest. James represented Roman Catholic and the City of Philadelphia as the District 1 winner at 24th

Annual Voice of Democracy contest in Gettysburg, PA, placing 5th out of 24 District winners.The answer may seem obvious, but rather it is a difficult one. Every day we have our views of heroes assaulted by hearing stories. The news provides us with nothing fair and balanced. Sure, we hear about what murder occurred last night or the fire that killed a family. How often do we hear about the brave men and women who searched for that person who took the life breath away from another human being the night prior? Not very often. How often do we hear about those men and women who walked into that fire—amid burning flames and terribly blinding and heavy smoke to save that family? Not very often. We do hear more about those men and women than we do about our men and women fighting for our country’s freedom not on Main Street but rather on a war-torn street in a foreign country, not entirely sure that they will ever see the country they were willing to give their life for. This is quite sad.

All throughout history we see examples of the armed forces never receiving the honor and respect that they really deserve. Today, we have a war going on. The War on Terror may not be popular, but our troops deserve support. They deserve to know that while they stand fighting on that street destroyed by bullets and missiles half the world away, their country is behind them supporting, praying for them, hoping for them. Do we make that evident in the clearest possible way? Does the media bombardment of despair give us any clue that they know we are here supporting them? That is up for you to judge.

Our troops wake up every morning to go and fight an unseen enemy. How does one distinguish between the common man and the armed terrorist? It is hard to tell. They do not wear uniforms to show themselves. They set up bombs on the side of roads and blow themselves up. Their fight is fueled on cowardice and cruelty, while ours is fought on the principles set forth by our Founding Fathers: that all men have the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. These truths may be “self evident” to us, but to these people, those brainwashed cowards, it is the fuel that runs their holy war, their “jihad.” Jihad is nothing more than a deadly oxymoron. How can anybody possibly believe that any merciful God could sanction such bloodshed? They do and that is quite a shame.

Now, let me take you back to Main Street, USA. There are homeless people living on the street in horrible poverty. How may of them are the men and women I just described for you? How many paid a price to give us a chance to preserve the lifestyle to which we have become accustomed? Homeless veterans are heroes also. They saw the harsh realities of war played out before their very eyes. They saw horrors no human should ever see. They suffered and how do we repay them? We provide them with a banner that says, “Welcome Back. We Appreciate Your Service.” Then we say our farewell and now they fend for themselves. What a welcome: a stoop under a shop cover after business hours end and a dumpster to rummage through for some food. Welcome home, dear, dear soldiers!

Now that I have given you a glimpse to the situation on how we treat our heroes, let me now talk about what makes them heroes. American soldiers not only pro-tect what we know and love here, but they also protect the innocent countrymen of the aforementioned enemy. They protect men, women, and children without discrimination or bias because of who they are. Is not that the American spirit perfectly defined? They take from the Emma Lazarus poem, The New Colossus, to bring to America your “huddled masses.” Our country, as always, is protecting every single human being that inhabits this earth. I know that this knowledge tells me that no matter how much we may doubt some of our nation’s decisions both here and abroad, our great country will come out on top because we are the Land of Opportunity. A land where no matter your creed, your color, your dress, and your habits— you will always be welcome. We have fought for many hundreds of years to be able to say that. Our soldiers help preserve that.

If our nation did not have soldiers, how many people all across the world would lose hope? The answer is many. How many dream to come to the USA one day, so they could take advantage of all the marvelous opportunities? So not only do the soldiers protect us (Americans) and the innocent in war-torn areas, but also those who look to America for that hope that helps them get through life. That is a beautiful thought. People look to America to get through the “great balancing act” of life! All of those immigrants throughout our history did, and look what a country they made! Every person who comes here contributes something to our great nation. Think of a world without our servicemen and servicewomen. Luckily, we do not have to.

So let us ring out the “THANKS Heard Round the World!” Make it loud enough—so they can hear it.

Above: James Corcoran '13 with State Commander Frank Mills, Sr. and Bette Jean Bierdrzycki, Department President, Ladies Auxiliary at the Voice of Democracy Contest in Gettsyburg, PA

13 The Empire

ROMAUCTION 2010"A Night on the Town"

Saturday, March 6, 2010301 N. Broad Street

Philadelphia, PA 19107

Cocktail Reception & Silent Auction5:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M.

Dinner & Live Auction7:00 P.M. to 10:00 P.M.

Sophia Cahill Award RecipientMr. Leonard Sylk

Honorary ChairDr. Richard Vassallo ’59

Roman Catholic High School proudly announces its 2010 Romauction. This year’s event, themed “A Night on the Town,” is scheduled for Saturday March 6, 2010 at RCHS, located at Broad and Vine Streets in Center City, Philadelphia. Roman’s historic gymnasium will be transformed into a classic ballroom, a perfect setting for an evening of fun and excitement, with a formal sit-down dinner and open bar.

“A Night on the Town” features both silent and live auctions, featuring fine restaurants, business services, vacation packages and paintings and portraits by artists from throughout the Delaware Valley. Proceeds from this event directly benefit our students, supporting their activity and sports programs.

So whether you fancy a trip to Cancun, a get-away weekend package, or tickets to our 2008 World Champion Phillies, there is something for all interests and price ranges.

$10,000 DRAWING!Take a Chance

$100 Per Chance Only 300 Tickets will be Sold

Winner Need Not be Present***If less than 100 tickets are sold, the drawing will be a 50/50 drawing

Purchase your tickets for Romauction 2010 or your $10,000 Drawing Chances today!

Romauction Ticket Prices$65 per person$120 per couple$550 table of ten

For More Information Contact Romauction@cahillite.com

14 Roman Catholic High School

Brotherly Love Three Proud TraditionsCome Together at Broad and Vine by: Steven Ziegler '04

In September, 2009, students across the Archdiocese of Philadelphia went back to school, many of them with fear in their hearts. This fear was attributed to an article published by the Philadelphia Daily News in mid-August which referred to the very real possibility of consolidation of several schools or the foreclosure of at least one Catholic high school in the City of

Philadelphia. The latter possibility became a startling actuality for the students of Northeast Catholic and Cardinal Dougherty High Schools on Thursday, October 8, 2009 when the Archdiocese of Philadelphia held a press conference to announce that the school year 2009-2010 would be the last for the students in the Frankford and East Oak Lane sections of the city.

The gut wrenching blow dealt to the Falcons of North Catholic and the Cardinals of Cardinal Dougherty also came with a harsh realization – students would need to find a school for next year and many of them want to continue doing so in a Catholic high school. This speaks volumes for the young men at each of these schools because it is no secret that low enrollment is one of the major causes for the current situation.

Less than a week after the announcement was made, calls from the parents and students enrolled in North and Dougherty inundated the admissions office of Roman Catholic. The administration knew that the task at hand would not be an easy one, but it was necessary to help them in this time at need. And then, the interview process began.

Father Bongard ’77, President/Rector of Roman Catholic worked with Roman Principal Robert O’Neill, a graduate of North himself, in interviewing students. Bongard said, “I called Father Waseline (Principal of North Catholic) after a few interviews and said ‘If these students are indicative of the caliber of individual coming out of North Catholic, you should be very proud.’”

The young men who have been in and out of the Roman Catholic building for interviews over the past several months have represented their schools well and gave everyone at Roman something to look forward to next year. “We want you to know that you will be very much a part of Roman Catholic next year,” Principal O’Neill told the transfer students, “and you’re going to make us a better school.”

The initial tepid mood of the Falcons and Cardinals began to wear off as word spread that Roman students, faculty members, and administrators were doing all they could to accommodate the students who were losing something so close to their hearts and by mid-January over 80 students were registered to attend Roman in the Fall. “Something like this can happen in an instant,” Father Bongard says solemnly, “and I want our guys to be aware of it.”

Perhaps, the welcoming nature of Roman students is the result of what has been ingrained in them since they walked in the first day of their freshman year – Roman’s history. The story of the 1980s Roman is well known by our students as well as most Philadelphians for that matter. Purple and gold seems to run through the veins of Roman students because they realize how hard the Roman community fought to save this great institution from foreclosure. They also realize that although the efforts and passion are strong, North Catholic and Cardinal Dougherty students and alums unfortunately will not see the same results.

On Wednesday, January 27, 2010 Roman held an orientation night for the families who would become a part of Roman Catholic during the next school year. “Here, we are a family and like a family every person within these walls, students and faculty alike, support each other. Roman’s environment is one that encourages each student to flourish,” Alejandro Arroyo ’10, Vice-President of Student Council reminded the soon-to-be Cahillites. “We want this to be your second, second home,” said Stefan Johnson ’10, Student Council President as he addressed the general assembly on the evening of the orientation.

Once the football helmets have been unstrapped, the shoelaces untied, and the mascots retired, any rivalries cease to exist and these young men go back to being students. Any animosity between the young men of Roman, North, and Dougherty will have been left on the playing field. It is now time for the Falcon and the Cardinal to live on in the hearts and the minds, rightfully so, of the men who walk the halls of Roman Catholic

15 The Empire

A Message from the Alumni President

Dear Fellow Alums and Friends,

On behalf of the Alumni Association of Roman Catholic High School, I thank you for contributing so much to the young men of this school. Through your dedication, the Alumni Association commits nearly three hundred thousand dollars in academic scholarships each year. The result is astounding as 96 percent of Roman students continue their education at an institute of higher learning, earning more than $18 million in academiccollege scholarships each year. These young men are indeed talented, and it is your support that allows them to receive the education that many students in the City of Philadelphia are denied, an education that is second to none. Your commitment to tuition assistance is evident in the support received to the Adopt-A-Student program which raises more than $100,000 in tuition assistance each year. Since its inception, the Adopt-A-Student program has brought in more than $1 million dollars for tuition assistance for the students of Roman Catholic. Each year, more involvement from the Alumni Association and the Philadelphia business community means only one thing for Roman Catholic – growth. We are able to grow and succeed as a school community because the students benefiting from your dedication are the students who give so much back to Roman through their academic performance and involvement with school activities.

Named scholarships at Roman continue to be an added value for our students – awarding more than $75,000 in scholarships each year. This year alone, three new scholarships have been named: The John ’36 and Alice Kane Scholarship, the John M. Gibbons, Jr. ’72 Memorial Scholarship, and the Henry and Catherine Zakrzewski Scholarship I once again thank you for all you do for the students of Roman Catholic. Thank you for devotion and committment which greatly impacts not only the future of our students, but also the future of Roman Catholic High School.

Sincerely,

Lawrence J. Elliott '66President

Roman Catholic High School Alumni Assocation

Named ScholarshipsFrancis & Teresa Beach Scholarship

Msgr. Bonner Foundation ScholarshipGeorge Boyle '49 Scholarship

Cahill Club ScholarshipCharles Colgan '45 ScholarshipThe DiLella Family Scholarship

George & Delores Everett ScholarshipCharles Fuller '56 Scholarship Fund

Joseph R. Glancey, Esq. '45 ScholarshipJohn M. Gibbons '72 Memorial ScholarshipMargaret & Thomas Graham Scholarship

Greater Philadelphia Chapter UNICOJoseph M. Hare '32 ScholarshipJohn Hoban, Jr. '59 ScholarshipFrank Iaquinto '60 Scholarship

John '36 and Alice Kane ScholarshipKandra Family Foundation Scholarship

Patrick Kerr '05 ScholarshipFrancis P. Lally '72 Scholarship

Lou Marino '81 ScholarshipGene McCoy '61 Memorial Scholarship

Luke McKenna '97 ScholarshipJames D. McMenamin '45 ScholarshipJohn and Nellie McSherry Scholarship

McSherry Brothers ScholarshipLouis A. Merlini '40 Scholarship

Lt. John T. Murphy '40 ScholarshipJohn J. Naughton Scholarship

J. Brian O’Neill Scholarship FundWilliam Palmer '05 ScholarshipDavid J. Phillips '89 Scholarship

John F. Spino '64 ScholarshipBarbara Thomson Scholarship

Susan & John White '43 ScholarshipHenry & Catherine Zakrzewski Scholarship

16 Roman Catholic High School

Hardwood Honors

If the picture to your right looks familiar yet different to you, that is because it is the newly renovated Roman Catholic High School gymnasium. When the renovations took place last summer, the administration of Roman could not bring the Purple and Gold into its 120th year without recognizing the men who made those colors so synonymous with Philadelphia basketball for the past 119 years.In their history, the Cahillites have filled the trophy case with 28 Catholic League Championships and a variety of titles from the Inter-League and interstate play. It is no secret that the somewhat miniscule gym at Broad and Vine has produced some of the NCAA and NBA’s biggest personalities. Yet, while the players put on the show, their coaches taught them how. The changes made to the Roman Catholic gymnasium gave everyone at Catholic High a chance to look back at three icons of Roman basketball and honor them each, not only with their own day, but also with their names on the hardwood of the oldest gym in the City of Philadelphia.

William “Billy” Markward was the first coach of Cahillite basketball and fittingly, the first coach to be honored with a ceremony. A veteran of the Spanish-American war, Markward stepped into the gym at Catholic High in 1902 and stayed for forty years. In a career spanning four decades, Markward led the Cahillites to nine victorious Catholic League championship games and five titles before the formation of the Catholic League. A good friend and the coach of Monsignor John Bonner, Class of 1908, Billy Markward’s influence on the motto of the Catholic League was clear, “Clean sport and true sportsmanship.” During a ceremony on Friday, January 8, 2010, Joe Kiernan ’43, author of A Cinderella Season, spoke of Markward saying that he was “the unrivaled dean of high school coaches in his era with all those victories and championships but a teacher of great character, devoted to his kids, extremely proud of them and most humble about what he personally achieved.” Two of Markward’s “Mighty Mites,” Dave Schaefer ’39 and Joe Rogers ’43, were in attendance to watch the unveiling of the gym floor. This first ceremony was for a pioneer of high school basketball, the next was for one of the finest Falcons ever associated with Catholic High.

Dennis Seddon came to Roman in 1986 bringing the sense of tradition instilled him at Northeast Catholic High School to Broad and Vine. Seddon brought the Cahillites to the threshold of greatness countless times during his twenty-two years as head coach and surpassed the legendary Billy Markward by capturing ten Catholic League titles and 516 wins during his tenure. On Sunday, January 17, 2010, Seddon, was honored in front of a crowd comprised of his Roman and North Catholic families. In his heartfelt speech, Seddon spoke of both saying, “One school I grew up in, the other I grew old in.” Current head coach Chris McNesby ’95, one of Seddon’s former players said, “For the four years I played under Coach Seddon, I’ll always remember how our teams competed extremely hard at the highest levels, but what was most admirable was how every team did it with the characteristics of class and dignity...the characteristics of Coach Seddon.” Seddon’s former players including Donnie Carr ’96 were in attendance to honor the man whose name is now prominently displayed in front of the Roman bench.

William “Speedy” Morris ’60 was inducted into the Big Five Hall of Fame earlier this year, and on Valentine’s Day, the name of the man whose love of the game is undeniable was forever painted into the minds of any player who puts on a Catholic High uniform for years to come. With eight Catholic League titles to his name, Morris completes the trinity of coaches not only for Roman Catholic, but also for the Catholic League as Seddon, Markward, and Morris rank one, two, and three for the number of championships won. “It is an honor to have my name on the court next to Dennis Seddon and Billy Markward,” Morris says. “Speedy” Morris’ career as head coach at Roman Catholic from 1968 to 1981 put six Catholic League titles in the house that Markward built. In 1986, Morris began a career a La Salle University that lasted until 2001 and made him the coach with the best record in the University’s history with 238 wins, six postseason appearances that included four NCAA tournaments and four MAAC championships. Under Morris’ guidance, the lady Explorers made their first trip to the March tournament and MAAC win. In 1989, Morris coached Lionel Simmons to the National Player of the Year award.

In 2002, Morris took the position of head coach at St. Joseph’s Prep and won back to back Catholic League titles in 2003 and 2004. Yet, Morris cannot forget his time at Catholic High both as a coach and a player. “I played under Fran McMenamin '48 who was one the greatest influences on me.” Although illness hindered Morris from playing during his senior year, he took up coaching a local CYO team because of how much he admired McMenamin. While coaching at the school he loves very much, Morris has a laundry list of stories and tells one in particular when his jacket leapt from his hands over the gym balcony and into a dumpster in the schoolyard. “My assistant coach brought it back to me and it had orange rinds all over it,” Morris says with a chuckle. “I had some great, crazy times coaching at Roman.”

The storied history of Roman Catholic basketball will live on at Broad and Vine as future coaches can only hope to have their names in that gym someday. Judging by the names that are there, they have a lot to live up to.

Class of 196050th Class Reunion

Class of 196050th Reunion Dinner Dance

Sit-down Dinner, Dancing, and Good FriendsMay 1, 2010ACE Center

Lafayette Hill, PA

$90 per person

For additional information and details,

contact Seamus Kearney '60 215.563.9430 or

seamus.kearney@verizon.net

In December, workers diligently installed a sign atop Renaissance Hall that givesRoman much deserved recognition among its Center City counterparts.

To memorialize a family member or friend with a sign dedication or chapel chair, please contact 215.627.1270 or jbongard@cahillite.com

New Energy for GPALA Denis O'Brien, CEO and President of PECO Energy, has been named as the 2010 recipient of the Greater Philadelphia Area Leadership Award.

O'Brien "is responsible for leadership over PECO’s operations and overall performance associated with service reliability, customer satisfaction, and regulatory and external affairs." A graduate of Drexel University, he has served as Chair of the Drexel 100, a director for the Franklin Institute, WHYY, Inc., American Gas Association, Energy Association of Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania Business Roundtable, Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce, and Select Greater Philadelphia.

The Greater Philadelphia Area Leadership Award Dinner will be held on Thursday, October 21, 2010 at the Union League of Philadelphia. (For early sponsorship or more information, contact Denise LePera, Executive Director of Institutional Advancement, 215.627.5487 ext. 312 or dlepera@cahillite.com

Regional ReunionsCalling All Roman Alumni, Family, and Friends

Finnegan’s Wake 3rd and Spring Garden Streets March 25, 2010

Great American Pub Conshohocken, PA Thursday, April 29, 2010

Connie Mac’s Irish Pub Pennsauken, NJ Thursday, May 27, 2010

All Reunions are 6-9 P.M. and cost $30 per personMust be 21 to Attend

Reserve your tickets early for Day at the Bay All pre-sales directly benefi t Roman Catholic High School

August 1, 2010 2:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M.

Keenan’s Irish Pub113 Old New Jersey AvenueNorth Wildwood, NJ 08260

Contact Alumni@cahillite.com or (215)-627-5487----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Enclosed is my check payable to Roman Catholic High School for $ _________ for # _____ Reservations

_______Finnegan’s Wake _______Great American Pub_______Connie Mac’s_________Day at the Bay

I prefer you charge my credit card: _____Visa ____MasterCard _____Discover _____ AmEX

Card #: ______________________________________Exp: ________________ CSV Code:___________

Name: ______________________________________________________ Class of: ________________

Address: ____________________________________________ City_____________________________ State: ________Zip:_________________ Email:____________________ Phone (Day): _____________

Because of the generosity of our alumni and friends, Catholic High provides its young men with a program that is second to none – a challenging academic curriculum, a

competitive sports program and engaging activities

Brothers For LifeAnnual Giving 2010

Be the Difference

Support Annual Giving

Roman Catholic High School The Empire301 N. Broad StreetPhiladelphia, PA 19107

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED Non Profit Org.

U.S. Postage PaidPhiladelphia, PAPermit No. 201

Walking Together...One Grand Step at a Time