ccc fall2012 web

A First Look at College Life

Kent StateResidency ProgramBrings CollegeReadinessExperienceto CCC Students

FALL 2012

ccc_fall2012-oct4press:Layout 1 10/4/12 8:31 AM

Connection is publisalumn

Faculty/Staff: Allen COther contributor

MartinWalter Roma

Cyn

C

Please sen

Mich6

Rooted in Gospel values and Catholic tradition,

Cleveland Central Catholic High School

educates and prepares diverse young men and women

for the future and challenges them to excel

and deepen their faith to responsibly serve God,

church and community.

Vibrant in the City . . . Learning to Lead – Preparing to Serve


Connection is published twice a year for Cleveland Central Catholic High Schoolalumni, parents, faculty, administrators, and friends.

CO-EDITORSMichele Fusco ScoccolaDirector of Advancement

Ellen Fasko Howard ’66 OLLFaculty and Alumni Editor

DESIGN AND LAYOUTLinda Schellentrager

PROOFREADINGKathryn Mahon

CONTRIBUTORS / PHOTOGRAPHY

Faculty/Staff: Allen Clark; Ellen Howard; Lori Sandel; Lin Sinclair; Michael Yako; Other contributors: Tim Angelone ’07; Matt Rodriguez ’12; William C. Rieter;

Martin Kurtz ’13; Nnena Okolo ’13; Sydney Sublett ’13Walter Romansky ’65 OLL; Mary Lou Fasko; Jerry Fasko ’65 OLL;

Cyndi Carswell ’82; Susanna Vanek Hovater ’71

------------


Leo P. HylandPresident

Sister Allison Marie Gusdanovic, SNDPrincipal

Dr. Lanny HollisAssociate Principal

Lori SandelAssistant Principal for Student Life

Carmella ReigerAdmissions / Marketing Coordinator

Michele Fusco ScoccolaDirector of Advancement

Grant InnocenziAthletic Director

------------

Please send address changes and any other correspondence regarding this publication to:

Cleveland Central Catholic High SchoolMichele Fusco Scoccola, Director of Advancement

6550 Baxter Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44105Email: [email protected]

www.centralcatholichs.org

contentsFALL 2012

President’s Notes 4

College Readiness 6

Principal 8Advancement Notes 10Living Faith 11Teacher Impact 15Cleveland Bound 18School News 20Sports News 24Golf Outing 26Events 28Ironmen 30Reunions 31Calendar of Events 32

Find us on Facebook!

n,

men

d,

Cover photo:


Collaboration Drives Progress at Central CatholicShowing the Vibrancy and Spirit of Catholic Education

The new school year ushered in a new level of progress at ClevelandCentral Catholic. Most obviously, this development is demonstrated in theschool’s enrollment of 564 students – which marks a 20-year high! In addition,our freshman class of 168 gives us a solid base for future enrollment figures.It is the third consecutive year we have matriculated over 160 freshmen.

In many ways, it is a new day at Cleveland Central Catholic. This fall, wewelcomed 10 new faculty and staff members to accommodate our growth.We have upgraded our facilities, extended our transportation fleet, addedextra-curricular activities for our students and our building feels full,happy and productive. The spirit of Catholic education and service is alive and well on our campus.

This vibrancy is evident in many ways, including our opening Liturgy, interscholastic athletics, club activities and service projects. We are thrilledto see our students and their families become energized and engaged inthe CCC mission. Their futures are brighter because of all the caring people who give so much to provide a pathway to success via Catholiceducation.

This wonderful “vibe” was clearly on display over Labor Day weekend, as CCC celebrated our 2nd Annual WelcomeBack Day. Over 1,200 fans packed Stefanski Stadium to watch our Ironmen take on Euclid High School in our home footballopening game. Thanks to the generous sponsorship provided by co-sponsors Third Federal Savings and PNC Bank, we wereable to celebrate the new school year with our families, neighbors and friends. It was awesome!

We are very fortunate to have strong leadership emanating from our new CCC Alumni Council. The Alumni Council has already pledged its support of CCC by partnering to co-sponsor four annual events: the CCC Golf Outing; Welcome Back Day;a CCC Recognition Dinner; and the CCC Athletic Hall of Fame Dinner. We are most grateful for their support!

CCC is also blessed to have an outstanding group of 30 committed advocates comprising our Advisory Board. These professionals share their expertise, connections and financial resource to help secure our mission and promote our school throughout the broader community. They are busy executing our strategic plan and helping to buildlasting corporate and foundation partnerships. Their leadership and commitment are crucial to our continued progress.

The collaboration of all these constituents – along with excellent leadership from the Diocese of Cleveland – has propelled CCC to new heights. Please join us on this journey,as we begin a community-wide discussion about what the future holds for Cleveland Central Catholic. Your input is welcome, needed and important to ensure our success.

Yours in Christ,

President

President’s Notes

4 CONNECTION • CLEVELAND CENTRAL CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL • FALL 2012

This vibrancy is evident in many ways, including

our opening Liturgy, interscholastic athletics,

club activities and service projects. We are thrilled

to see our students and their families become

energized and engaged in the CCC mission.

Leo P. Hyland, President

Keayha Dillon ’12 and Tyesha King ’12 atthe Welcome Back Day


CCC Alumni Association Steps Forward

The Cleveland Central Catholic Alumni Association has come together to be a force in support of theschool and its alumni. The group has created an Alumni Council which has met regularly to createorganizational by-laws, elect officers and chart an agenda that will keep all alumni informed andengaged.

“I am thrilled with the energy of this group and the progress they have already made since November,”stated Leo Hyland, CCC’s third-year president. “We have an excellent cross-section of alumni from allyears, and are including each of the four founding schools. They are off to a great start.”

Led by officers John Simon ’72 (President), Reggi Mack Tomek ’77 (Vice President), Willie Kennedy ’79(Secretary), and Mike Sokolowski ’79 (At-Large), the Alumni Council has agreed to help co-sponsor fourannual events for CCC. Those are: the CCC Golf Outing; Welcome Back Day; an Athletic Hall of FameDinner; and a CCC Recognition Dinner. The group also plans to increase alumni presence at the annual Calcutta fundraising event held each March. (See “Upcoming Events” below.)

“We are glad to help Central Catholic in any way we can,” said president John Simon. The Alumni Councilplans to meet quarterly and extends an open invitation to anyone who would like to become involved.Interested alumni should contact Pat Ayers in the alumni office at [email protected] or at216.441.4700 x261.

Upcoming Event dates:Recognition Dinner - Saturday, November 17 • 10th Annual Calcutta Auction - March 20, 2013

Athletic Hall of Fame Dinner - Spring 2013 • CCC Golf Outing - June 15, 2013

Save the Dates!


College Readiness

CCC Students Feel Life on CampusKSU Residency Program Creates Lasting Impact

The Kick-Start College Summer ResidencyProgram is a partnership between ClevelandCentral Catholic, Kent State University, andUniversity Hospitals in which Kent State introduced a select group of 14 CCC studentsto the exciting world of science, technology,engineering and math (STEM) through aweek-long summer immersion program thispast June.

This small, 14-student learning community was immersed inprojects aimed at turning college-classroom lessons into real-worldapplications where STEM concepts come to life. The week-longcollege exploration culminated with students presenting a PowerPoint project to parents, Kent State University staff, CCCstudents and other participants and discussing a variety of topics, such as: new knowledge found in the classroom andthrough field work; STEM career possibilities; budgeting theirmoney to cover a week of college food and budgeting their time;and their overall experience of campus life. Junior SamanthaStypka shared the challenge of living with a roommate, stating, “I learned that if I am going to room with someone, they have tohave similar sleeping habits so that I can get my work done.”Samantha plans on attending Kent State University, and was mostinterested in the outdoor lab work which included exploring different eco systems.

Acting as mentors and counselors, Central Catholic science teacher Danielle Timko and CCC alumna


Mercedes Thomas ’08 accompanied the group. “The week was a dynamic time of academic exploration, learning and

camaraderie, all set in the campus of Kent StateUniversity,” Timko said. “We all loved it.”

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics,STEM fields are expected to add 2.7 million newjobs by 2018, an enormous prospect for those whoare prepared and a huge missed opportunity forthose who are not. Of college-educated Americans,people of racial and ethnic minorities – includingAfrican-American, Hispanic and Native Americans –represented only nine percent of those in scienceand engineering occupations. The Kick-Start College Summer Residency Program provides aglimpse into career possibilities students may nothave considered possible. It allows them to say,“Yes, I can try this!”

Students were asked to document their experience by keeping a journal

and taking photos of their week-long experience. The journals indicate

that the students have a diverse range of career interests, which include

biology, engineering, computer science, and medicine.


Jazzmin AbernathyMarissa AlvaradoMakayla FaganCara GuidaitisCordaireus HubbardKierra ObojskiBrittany Rodriguez

Louis SadieShade SandersRudolfo SotoSamantha StypaDominik ThomasLa'Shanda WilsonAlex Yearout

The following students participated and took photos:


Principal

A Community of LearnersAs I begin my 10th year at Cleveland Central Catholic, I think it isappropriate to reflect on the changes that I have experienced in my tenurehere. Our enrollment has increased from 383 in 2003-2004 to a current enrollment of 564, a whopping overall increase of 47%. A building expansion project of 25,000 square feet,completed in November of 2006, included a new chapel, an all-purposeroom, a practice gymnasium, and nine classrooms including a state-of-the-art science lab. A new stadium complex, the result of a private-public partnership with the City of Cleveland, the Diocese of Cleveland, ThirdFederal Savings and Loan and the Cleveland Browns, was dedicated in September of 2010.

What do these changes represent? The first word that comes tomind is growth. These physical changes, however, are representative ofa much bigger reality. As I walk through the building, classrooms arefilled with students engaged in learning. Parents are assisting in thecafeteria and in the hallways. There is an overall atmosphere of order.

When someone observes a student doing something right, a yellow“celebration card” is issued. The action might be as simple as opening adoor for someone, helping a fellow student in class, or being anactive classroom participant. Last week I witnessed a student taking apicture of her “yellow card” that was posted in the hallway. Two dayslater a parent was taking a picture of her student’s yellow card.

Taken individually, each example is small, but collectively it speaksto Cleveland Central Catholic as a community of learners where, indeed,it does take a village to raise a child.

As part of our Catholicity goal of human dignity and the call to family,we are focusing on a specific theme each month. Using the book,God’s To Do List, each homeroom focused in September on the theme,“create.” Examples of creations produced included origami pieces, atree of life, a collage forming the word “create,” and a mobile with student names. Students and teachers were proud of the creations they produced, bringing them to the office and finding places to displaythem throughout the building.

All of this speaks to a significant truth. When we recognize the gifts,talents, accomplishments and good works of our students we are sendingthem a clear message. Who they are, what they do and how they usetheir God-given talents are important. Their choices to lead by exampleand to serve others will impact our society and our world. It is our hopeand our prayer that we are providing fertile soil for growth where studentsare “Learning to Lead and Preparing to Serve.”

May our good God bless you for your generosity as you support our students and the mission of Cleveland Central Catholic.

2012 Graduates


Congratulations to ourCleveland CentralCatholic High SchoolClass of 2012! The seniorclass of 114 earned over 1.8million dollars in scholarshipsand individual students have been accepted to collegesand universities that include Baldwin Wallace University,Cleveland Institute of Art, Hiram College, John CarrollUniversity, Lake Erie College, Miami University, NotreDame College and St. Francis University. Many of ourstudents have decided to proudly serve in the ArmedForces. Go Ironmen!

Sr. Allison Marie Gusdanovic, SND,

William Zender gives the Student Address at the Commencement Exercises.


Above: In one of many duties as a Sister of Notre Dame, Sr. Melannie, pictured left, served as Novice Director when Sr. Allison Marie was in the novitiate.

Class of 2012

Valedictorian ASIA BARKER is attending The Ohio State University

SalutatorianMEGAN CRETER is attending Notre Dame College

Phi Beta Kappa AwardJULIA SANTIAGO is attending Baldwin-Wallace University.

CONNECTION • CLEVELAND CENTRAL CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL • FALL 2012 9

Marlene Anielski ’79, State Representative, Ohio 17th District addresses Class of 2012.


Advancement Notes

Students Find Comfort in Supportfrom the Jennifer FundCleveland Central Catholic is grateful to receive fundingfrom The Jennifer Fund. This family fund was established byAggie and Tom Hoskin in the memory of their daughter Jennifer who lost her life to breast cancer. Former executivedirector of West Side Catholic Center, Aggie listened to theneeds of Central Catholic students around loss, grieving andhealing and immediately responded with financial support fromher family fund. This generous support will allow campus ministry to develop youth retreats with a focus on holistic spirituality, which may include small group art therapy sessions,guided imagery and responsive writing. These off campus retreats will be facilitated by a trained professional who willwalk with students as they take healing steps in their journeythrough loss and grief. These retreats will encourage studentsto share their experiences, express their feelings, and learnabout grief in the lives of their peers. These experiences willallow students to connect with one another and help thembuild skills to cope with the loss in their lives. Cleveland Central Catholic is blessed to have the support of The Jennifer Fund.

Celebrating the Universal Year of Faith at CCCTo commemorate the 50th anniversary of the beginning ofthe Second Vatican Council, Pope Benedict XVI has declaredthis year a Year of Faith. This opportunity provides ClevelandCentral Catholic with the opportunity to help nurture the faith of those with whom they work and serve – students, teachers,administrators and parents.

The teachings of Vatican II are clear on its role and commitmentto a Christian presence in society. All are called to holiness, bytransforming human society and reflecting God within humansociety. There should not be a separation between faith and life.This means that all are called to live out their faith each andevery day. With the Gospel message in mind, campus ministryhas planned appropriate programs and events to help celebratethe Year of Faith. It is their hope that students and staff will beinspired to rediscover, live and cultivate their gifts of faith andto witness actively their faith to others.

Important Campus Ministry Events and Celebrations:August, Common Prayer at Convocation September, Mass of theHoly Spirit (Opening School Liturgy) and Homecoming Liturgy,Fall Class Retreats for 9th and 12th grade, November, EucharisticLiturgy of All Saints and Thanksgiving Liturgy with Junior RingCeremony, December, Eucharistic Liturgy of the ImmaculateConception and Christmas Common Prayer and Assembly, January, Catholic Schools Week Eucharistic Liturgy, February,Ash Wednesday Prayer Services, March, Lenten Rites ofPenance, Spring, Class retreats for the 10th and 11th grades,April, Easter Prayer Service, May, Honor Assembly CommonPrayer, and June, Baccalaureate Mass beforeCommencement.

Other campus ministry programming focused on service to God, Church and Community:Retreat & Spiritual Leadership Programs, Campus and PeerMinistry, Community Service, including volunteering at theProvidence House, University Settlement, West Side CatholicCenter, and Malachi House.

In the Gospel of St. Matthew (Chapter 28), the mandate given to His disciples is heard: “Go forth into every nation. Baptizethem in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the HolySpirit. Teach them to carry out everything I have commandedyou and know that I am with you always.” This is the call that thatis given to all as disciples in 2012, this Year of Faith.

CGI

Thank you to our lead sponsors ...

Freshman Retreat Held on the Campus of NDCL



Retiree Models Mix of Ministry & Family Ron Gilak Shifts Gears into ‘Grandpa’ Mode

As faculty members donned academic attire for June’s commencement in thebasement of St. Colman Church, Ron Gilak sat down to take it all in. This was thelast of 32 such ceremonies. His retirement from teaching inspired reflection aboutthe way he has exemplified his faith as an educator and minister all these decades.

In his youth, Ronald Gilak might not have imagined the role for a layman thathas evolved in today’s Catholic institutions – a role for which he has been wellsuited. He attended Borromeo and came to Central Catholic in 1980. His dutiesover the years as English teacher, theology department chair, campus minister,Millwrite moderator and coach have given him many ways to minister to the flockthat is the Central Catholic family – while raising his own family. Practical andcalm, Gilak has overseen the big picture of liturgies, retreats, service hours andtheology curriculum while taking time to listen and to counsel students and teachers alike. In prayer intentions and in actions, he has articulated both realityand hope. As the CHALTA representative for CCC’s lay teachers and a proponentof social justice causes, he was able to lead and to act on behalf of others. CoachGilak did stats and more for the football teams over the years, and his stint as asoccer coach will be recalled by 1980s alumni. He’s kept up with new technologyas it has evolved as a teaching tool over the last few decades, often aiding fellowteachers at the former Scranton Campus with new programs. Hence, a quote:“We’ve spent much of our adult lives waiting for a computer to boot up.”

As parents of Amanda, Aaron and Rebekah, Ron and wife Gerry relish theirgrowing role as grandparents to a half dozen more family members. The tech skillsmay come in handy, along with the time-honored values of being calm and practi-cal, as Ron quietly leaves a great legacyat CCC to minister – along with doingwhatever else he wants to do – to another generation.

Editor’s note: “Back in the day” when computers were confined to a single room,Ron Gilak may have worn a path into the carpet of Scranton’s 4th floor, walking between his classroom and the computer lab at the other end of the hall, working manylate nights. Scores of CCC faculty and students bear witness to his preparation and dedication, and I am happy to be among them. Ellen Howard ’66 OLL

Living Faith

Above: On behalf of thestudent senate, rising senior Sam Mullenax presents a check to a representative of BroadwayChristian Church.

Dennis Weber '08volunteers histime to work with children in Rwanda.

Students Give Back

Alum in Rwanda


Living Faith

El Camino Inspires Tim Angelone ’07Blog Maps Pilgrimage from France to Santiago de Campostella

Excerpts from Tim’s blog map out his path on the historic route of pilgrims, along with his spiritual journey andinsights reflected in his daily diary this summer. Dr. Lanny Hollis was among those who shared Tim’s ancient spiritual exercise in a new communication medium of blogging.

July 2: I procrastinated, in true fashion, packing my backpack but I managed toget it set up last night and everything looks good. If I would have gone with anythingsmaller than a 38 liter bag, there is no way it would have all fit. It’s big and kind ofheavy but it has everything I need, and nothing I want, which is good.

July: I’ll wake on the morning of the 5th and begin hiking the 900km or 562 milesto Santiago and later Cape Finis Terra, the most Northwestern part of Spain. All thisshould take me about 35 days, with a day or two of rest along the way.

July 5: It´s safe to say that I have met people from over 50+ countries so far andthey have all been nothing short of amazing! Words cannot describe how incrediblethis trek has been so far! Day one a solid rain, hiking up to about 1500km or about5000 feet. Solid uphill but incredibly awesome.

July 11: The last few days have been quite amazing. It has been 7 days since I began walking and it seems as if each day cannot get better, but some way, somehow they always do. I have been walking with a couple that is from Brecksvilleand about 20 others along the way from various countries all over the world.

July 13: Every town we arrive in has something special about it. I find that I particularly like smaller towns and tend to have a rough day in the big cities likeLogroño; after all I left to escape the big city. I have had a rough time with blistersfor the last few days. I´ve been wrapping my feet in duct tape prior to departingeach morning to reduce the friction which has really helped, and I think now my feetare finally settling into the rhythm of walking so many miles a day. The days are longand the routes tour through vineyards, forests, and cities. It’s pure beauty & I love it!Barren time

July 22: How interesting the last few days have been. Chelsea, Evan and I havebeen pushing hard to get into Leon so we can check out the city and surpass theroughly 2/3′s point of the camino into the home stretch of the trip. Just a bit agoChelsea and I were talking about how much we do not want this to end. I am makinggreat time and doing a half of a day more than the recommended amount each dayto afford an evening or two in Finis Terra for a sunset and to unwind before cominghome. My feet are badly blistered and so sore it hurts to even walk a step, but themotivation of the other pilgrims makes it that much easier. Tomorrow I believe I willrise early (around 4:00 a.m.) and begin to relax under the stars before the sun rises. Ilove being able to see the entire Milky Way and shooting stars every 5 minutes orso; it’s incredibly peaceful. I decided I will walk a full day in silence along the caminowhich will certainly not be easy but I figure I will write ¨Day of Silence¨ on my pack inEnglish, Spanish and French so others won’t think I’m being rude.

July 25: I did have a bit of foot pain for the first 5 or so miles from blisters forming under previous blisters but I took care ofthem and pressed on. The pain subsided as I approached “La Cruz de Ferro” in a humbling monument. The majestic spotstands 1,505 meters above sea level with a simple iron cross that stands atop a weathered pole. The place has been, and stillis, a spot where pilgrims can reconnect with the purpose of their journey. Whether it be religious or simply walking to leavesomething behind, they can continue to move on in life putting a positive foot forward. I approached when no one was aroundin the early morning. I touched the pole and spoke a few words to my god `The Sun´ (yes, the star in the sky) and asked tohelp better myself by leaving all negativity that I have carried thus far in my life behind on this pile of rocks and to continue to move in the right direction in life wherever that may be.

continued


Late July: What an amazing last few days it has been. I was‘adopted’ by a great group of Germans. We have been spendingthe last few days rising early still and hitting the beach and justenjoying the last few days with each other here at Finis Terra.

August 3: Over the course of the last 30 or so days I can say Ihave honestly learned SO much, not just about myself, but aboutothers as well. I have spent time with someone from virtually everymajor country and every single moment has been something thatI feel I will always remember. I believe I have made some newfriends that I will have for a very long time. I love this quaint littlefishing town with its beautiful beaches, happy people, and beautiful women. I feel like staying for a long time. A few friends of mine have joined a settlement of pilgrims that have just begun living here. Some have been here for over a year and knew a fewof my friends who passed through here last year. Talk about a reunion for them… All I know is that Spain is a place that I willsurely return to one day soon. Life is great here!


Living Faith


Students Verify:“Nun Better”CCC Connects to a Pierre’s Ice Cream Signature Flavor

This summer “Nun Better” IceCream was trademarked, just in timefor Pierre Ice Cream’s release of “Nun Better” Snickerdoodle IceCream as one of eight signature flavors to celebrate their 80th anniversary. Two members of theCentral Catholic family connect

CCC tothe newicecreamand its package.The SisterCookie logo, designed by Mary-helen Bednarchik ’77, was made intoa label in 2002 for sales of cookies, oneof which inspired the new ice cream flavor. The Sisters of the Holy Spiritbegan to bake and sell “Nun Better”® Cookies in2001, selling through flyersdistributed at Jennings

Center for Older Adults. Sales escalated withmore advertising, along with inclusion in the catalog of Monastery Greetings, a company which promotes products of convents and monasteries

All this started in the mid-1980s eighties when theCleveland Indians were in a dramatic slump, and the Sistersof the Holy Spirit tried to cheer them on to victory by baking chocolate chipcookies for the team. Cookies were delivered to the club house with hand-made signs to be posted there with promises of prayers and generalsupport. That tradition led to the revenue generating venture. Sister Mary Assumpta, CSSp was featured in the movie Major League and appears as a publicface for the Sisters, who are unabashed Indians fans. Sister Assumpta, who taughtat CCC in the early years, is also Maryhelen’s aunt and wrote the “Alma Mater” forCentral Catholic.

L-R: Azaria’h Pollard, Tyler Almond, D’Angela Porter, Alissia Harrisand Cordaireus Hubbard sample “Nun Better” Snickerdoodle.

To update the link toCleveland Central

Catholic, a group ofstudents politelywaiting in the atriumafter a summerpractice was askedto give instant

feedback on a sample of “Nun Better”

Snickerdoodle Ice Cream. See what they have to say.

If the sale of this newflavor goes well,

More “Nun Better”Cookie recipes may be used todevelop addi-tional ice cream

flavors in a spe-cial “Nun Better”

line. Check the specialice cream section or ask a

grocer. Purchase cookies directly from theconvent at 216-581-2941 or order throughthe catalog at www.monasterygreetings.org.

“I haven’t had ice cream this good in a long time.”Sophomore cheerleader

Tyler Almond

“I haven’t tasted any ice cream like this.”

Sophomore Alissia Harris

“This ice cream is the best. I love it!”

Freshman D’Angela Porter

“Delicious! The best ice cream

I’ve had.” Junior cheerleader

Azaria’h Pollard

“Where great taste meets the taste buds.”

Junior Cordaireus Hubbard


Above: In one of many duties as a Sister of Notre Dame, Sr. Melannie, pictured left, served as Novice Director when Sr. Allison Marie was in the novitiate. CONNECTION • CLEVELAND CENTRAL CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL • FALL 2012 15

Teacher Impact

The Moment ThatLed to Career PassionEditor’s note: After the CCC golf outing last June,when so many alumni were reminiscing abouttheir years at Central Catholic, Willie Kennedy ’79told this story. It fit the topic of teacher impact soperfectly that he was asked to put it on to paper.

“During the last weeks before graduation,after I had committed to attend YoungstownState University, I went to the gym (SocialCenter) to remove items from my lockers.On my way out I bumped into Coach Chaseat the east end of the gymnasium. He askedme what college I was going to attend and I toldhim Youngstown State University. Then he askedme what I had chosen as my major, and I toldhim business administration. He asked why Ichose business administration and I told himthat I was not really sure what to choose as amajor, and with business administration I couldfeel my way around. By this time we had walkedacross the gym floor to center court. CoachChase saw that I had a copy of my transcriptsand asked to see them.

“He told me that business administrationwas a very generic major and asked whether I had considered something else. I told him thatI really did not have a clue as to what I wanted todo! After looking over my transcripts he noticed the A’s I hadgotten in Mr. Badar’s class. He asked what I did in that classthat I liked, so I told him about the computer we worked on and how much fun and interesting it was. I had gotten really excited as I talked about this class and how I liked it.

“Coach also noticed that I received pretty good grades in math. By this time we had walked to the west end of the basketball court, and had arrived at the foul line. Coach Chaselooked me in the eye and asked, ‘Why don’t you major in computer technology?’ He asked me what I thought about the computer classes I took with Mr. Badar. At that point something happened that I will never forget. A light bulb wentoff in my head and for the first time I had realized I had a passion, a calling, for computer technology. I immediately went home and contacted the university and asked if I couldchange my major to computer technology.

They told me ‘yes’ (it was only May!). I was so excited that I drove down to YSU the next dayand changed my major.

“That single event, that simple conversation,helped shape my life. I have always lookedbacked on that moment and often wonder whatwould have happened had I not bumped intoCoach Chase. I think about all the counselingsessions I had has a senior and how I had overlooked this field. From that moment until thisvery day, I eat, drink and live technology and Ilike to think that I have had a successful careerin this field. I cannot think of doing anythingelse, (other than golfing).

“I have had similar conversations with mynieces, nephews and sons to help them find their majors andpassion. Each of them has provided me with a copy of theirtranscripts and I look for those obvious patterns. I ask themwhat they like to do, what they did in the classes where theyhave had the most success. I have been able to help each andevery one of them find their major and passion.

“The reason I call this my passion is because from that conversation I had with Coach Chase and that light bulb goingoff, I have never wanted to do anything as strongly as I wantedto be involved with computer technology and if I could I woulddo this for free!”

Willie Kennedy, ‘79Bachelors of Science in Applied Science and Technology

(Youngstown State University)

Classmates from 1979 and consistently active alumni, Mike Malecand Willie Kennedy swap stories at the golf outing.

Jerry Chasewas Willie Kennedy’s junior

varsity basketball coach.


Teacher Impact

Ironman Invades British IslesLegendary English Teacher Visits Famous Sites

Legendhas it thatEnglishDepartmentChairperson Lin Sinclairactually wentto Stone-henge for hersenior prom,and that herdate was

none other than: Beowulf! Not true, but this formidableeducator has been teaching senior level Englishclasses for so long, and so well, that she is foreverfixed in the brains of her students, associated with thecharacters and strongholds of British literature. To thisday, CCC alumni can recite passages from Shake-speare, memorized for her class. Even before the “bigideas” of contemporary education became a trend,the hallmarks of her course, like family coats of armsand term paper steps, have become rites of passagethrough which seniors must pass.

Now, thanks to a summer trip to the British Isles,images and tales further enhance her third floor lair.Miss Lin and her sister Jan Sinclair stopped at sites in Scotland and Ireland to trace their family heritage, remembering their parents and brothers who havegone on to that final reward where bagpipes playeternally. The sisters toured key locations in England,accompanied by the Ironman, whose image will surelysurface in classes as students trek through Englishliterature this year.

To erase the assumption that Miss Sinclair hasbeen teaching English at CCC since the beginningof time, be it known that she spent nine years

instructinggrade schoolstudents in thediocese, andthe next 31 at Central Catholic’s campuses. Her tenure goes backinto the mists of time, back to theera of three campuses, andteacher travel between buildings. The faculty members who helddown the fort at Tremont in thelate 1980s bonded in a kind of“you had to be there” mode, andSinclair is among them. By tellingstories and then editing them, shecontributed to the 1990s “Roots”document, an attempt to condense theexperience of those early CCC years intoseveral pages.

Not a bookworm by any means, Lin Sinclair coached volleyball and softball and the ONLYboys volleyball team ever fielded by Ironmen from1994-1997. In previous years, she has been a classmoderator, along with advising the staff of the Millwriteand Cauldron publications. On a more serious note,she has chaired and served on the boards for chemicaldependency and discipline review. For a decade,along with fellow faculty Joann Hynes ’69 and Maryhelen Bednarchik ’77, she managed a winterstudy table routine for athletes, who took turns sharingone gym, study time, and a family style meal on prac-tice and game nights.

After high school at NazarethAcademy, Lin attended Kent

Lin Sinclair with JoVan Stoner ’12. JoVan is attending Kent State University this fall.


State University, where she witnessed the events of May 1970.As a capable representative to CHALTA, the teachers’ unionfor Catholic High School & Academy Lay Teachers, she has negotiated on behalf of teachers, and continues to serve asvice president of the organization. She runs a tight ship aschair of the English Department as well, keeping binders ofexams and notes for novels, and managing the English bookroom. Recently all English classrooms have been re-equippedwith class sets of dictionaries. At the top of her annual “to do”list: arrange for the Great Lakes Theatre Festival performersto visit CCC classes. Shakespeare, meet the Ironman. Andwatch your step on the third floor.


Cleveland Bound

Who put the in Cleveland Central Catholic

City’s Diversity and Resources Enhance Life at CCC

While Central Catholic has been “Vibrant in the City” for many years now, the opportunities and resources of Cleveland only serve to enhance life at CCC. Not only that, but throughout its history, Central Catholic has reflected the city’s rich diversity, thereby enriching the lives of students who embrace it.

The Diversity Center’s 10th Annual “Walk, Rock & Run” event on May 5 became a perfect venue for a Cleveland Central Catholic contingent to show its face. Theevent unified communities across Northeast Ohio while raising awareness and sending proceeds to Diversity Center’s youth programming in nine counties. While “Imagine a community where all people are respected, connected, and valued”helped advertise the event, anyone familiar with the CCC mission can relate to that.

Cleveland’s resources provide ample opportunities for Ironmen of all ages. Forover 20 years now, the sophomore biology students have spent a day at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, each one observing an animal selected for study. Duringtheir Senior Career Experience in March, students in grade 12 shadowed professionalsin many fields, often tapping Cleveland’s expansive medical community. Young talentshave participated in thefilm industry as the citybecomes a destinationfor movie makers. Thissummer, Paul Barrosse ’76,who once graced theCCC stage, found hisname on a PlayhouseSquare marquee!

The Rock and Roll Hallof Fame and Museumprovides a backdrop asCCC students, staff andfamilies join the “Walk,Rock & Run” event. Participants could alsogain entry into the RockHall, Great Lakes Science Center andBaseball Heritage Museum that day.


Below: Alumni join theater party for “The Vic and Paul Show” in July: Rob Sommerfelt ’78, Michele Stary Sommerfelt ’79. John Schrader, Maryhelen Bednarchik ’77, Ed Smolko and Fran Hansen Smolko, both ’76. Inset, opposite page: Victoria Zielinski, Emelia, Paul ’76 and Eva Barrossecheck out the 1976 Ingot during CCC tour between Playhouse Square performances of the Vic and Paul Show.

Matt Rodriguez ’12 spends CareerWeek at Burke Lakefront Airport.

Left: Shown here on the CCC stage,Soph Nick Adamczewski acted as anextra for the film Fun Size.



School News


An expressive Cody Gooch rules with “Your Feet Too Big” from Ain’t Misbehavin’.

Stanley Scott solos while the period 9 chorusclass performs “Circle of Life” from The Lion King.

Choral Director Traci Jones showshow it’s done in her solo “Somewhere”from West Side Story.

Central Catholic on BroadwayThird Concert Showcases Choral Talent

Featuring two chorus classes in a third concert for theschool year, the Central Catholic on Broadway concert includedsolos and ensemble numbers from hit musicals. Beginning and experienced choral students in the second semester chorusclasses performed on May 17, directed by Ms. Traci Jones with assistance from Sr. Mary Seton Schlather, SND.

Marques Medley leads the class with “Tuxedo Junction” in the Central Catholic on Broadway Concert.



ur Feet Too Big”

Marice Robinson and Jada Smith, prom king andqueen, reign over class festivities.

Seniors Light Up LanderhavenSpectacular Prom Preparations Pay Off

Following months of preparation: choosing the right gown, coordinating men’s attire and getting every detail just right, seniors and dates enjoyed a beautiful prom at Landerhaven on May 15. After limosinearrival for color-coordinated couples, dinner and dancing filled this evening, the social focus of the year.Senior class council and moderators planned the event.


School News


Black Hearts and Bearded LadiesChannels Dramatic Talents on StageAlliance of Poles Becomes Sweetwater Inn

Four rude, crude, unladylike ladies took over the stage as the Drama Club mounted its spring production of BlackHearts and Bearded Ladies at Alliance of Poles Hall in May.Directed by Michael Yako and Shelby Dennstedt, seasonedand rookie talents alike depicted a parade of assorted pa-trons of the Sweetwater Inn, along with the family and staffwho manage it. In the title roles, the bearded ladies,thievish bandits by trade, stay at the inn incognito and turnthe place upside down. Casting allowed CCC students tochannel their talents into new stage personalities.

Clockwise from above: Joy Hopkins,Channelle Dennard, Chaunte Bobo and Pendeza Wadesisi pretend to bemusicians staying at the Inn. GabrielleHarris plays a maid adept at swattingflies. One of Grace Fana’s dual roles isClarissa, a fortune-teller. GuillermoMeza plays a mysterious swindler.


CONNECTION • CLEVELAND CENTRAL CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL • • FALL 2012 23

Above: Victor Benton andLoren Swisher play twolikable but lazy relatives.Left: All’s well at the end,with the inn’s crew bolstered on the right byMatthew Thompson, playing the delivery man,and Marisa Faulkrod andNick Adamczewski onthe left.

Clockwise from far left: Grace Fana, Jocelyn Nicholsand Denver Jacobs form thestage family. Halle Davissurfaces as a detective. Thebearded ladies challengeSweetwater guests. MalcolmGaston, center, plays an egotistical and greedy psychiatrist staying at the inn.


Sports News

Hemphill Regional Champ in 400Track Star Returns to States

Last spring senior Keith Hemphill placed 5th in thestate in the 400m, his second year in the state finals.Regional champion in the Northeast Ohio Bedford region of Division II, Hemphill was also a regional qualifier in the 200m. Keith reigned as North CoastLeague meet MVP and district champion as well, besides contributing to competitive relay teams.

Before graduating last spring, Tierra Collins meritedFirst Team All-NCL honors for softball, along with juniorteammate Alyxis Adams. Tierra was nominated forplayer of the year in NCL as well. On the baseball diamond, senior Larry Owens won First Team All-NCL,along with CCC’s Len Janiak Award. Other athletes honored with the Len Janiak Award were junior DamonWheat and freshman Taylor Prewitt for track & field, plus sophomore Shelby Roberts for softball.

Keith Hemphill excels in sprints and relays.

Grant Innocenzi assumes duties as athletic director

VITAL STAT

Tailback Khairi Dickson ’12 was MVP for the West in the 40th annual Cuyahoga CountyEast-West All-StarHigh School Scholarship FootballGame in June.


CONNECTION • CLEVELAND CENTRAL CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL • SPRING 2012 25

See more sports and school photography by Allen Clark, on:

For all team schedules, go to:

www.ironmanfilmworks.org

www.centralcatholichs.org


Golf Outing

Foursomes from the top: Phil Laba ’76, Tom Olschlager ’79, John Shaver, RyanHarnoscz; Ron Wayne, Nikki Johnson,

Fran Springer Johnson ’78; Judy Mack ’74,Linda Obral, Susan Pagrabs,

Reggi Mack Tomek ’77; Dan Comer, Joe Kilburg, Mark Anderson, Sean O’Brien.

Spirit of 1976 surfaces as Timmy Knighton and

Dave Maronski team up for the golf outing.

Event and Hole Sponsors Bolster Success Alumni Foursomes Support CCC Benefit Golf Outing

The CCC Alumni Golf Outing featured 101 golfers having fun on June 9 atsunny Valleaire Golf Course. Two special event sponsor donations along with arecord twenty $100 hole sponsors assured financial success for the alumni association. The Springer family (Tony ’71, Carl ’72, Fran ’78, John ‘78) memorializedtheir mom, Florence Springer, as “A believer in Central Catholic’s academics and athletics” plus John Peca '70 honored Larry Soeder, Central’s first football coach, in sponsoring the event. Congratulations to the Tom Olschalger & Phil Laba team andalso the T.J. and Tim Morgan team whose foursomes scored an excellent 10-under-par.

Eleven volunteers scored above par in running a flawless event: Elaine and CharlieOreskovic ’64 OLL, Kathy Wolowicz ’80, Lynn and Moe Brickman ’65 OLL, Diane ThomasGinley ’73, Janette Pellas, ’78, Sandy Stelbasky Scott ’78, Bob Olschlager ’79, Bob Powell ’70and Mary Lou Haas Fasko. The Valleaire staff was very complementary to operationsand players. Tim Myslenski, John Simon ’72, and Jerry Fasko ’65 OLL once again did agreat job of planning a memorable day,

Classmates Phil Kubec and John Simon share memories of theClass of 1972.



Jim Gabor, Mike Monastero and Bob Bobrowski ’75stop for lunch at the turnaround. Bobrowski camefrom Texas for the outing.

Dinner crew prepares to feed Ironmen: Bob Olschlager ’79, Sandy Stelbasky Scott ’78, Jerry Fasko ’65 OLL, Janette Pellas ’78.

Formidable foursome of Hodakievic men: L-R: Joe,his dad Coach Ron, Danny and his dad Coach Al.The younger men grew up watching their fatherscoach CCC teams.

Mike Malec ’79 and Joe Costa

CONNECTION • CLEVELAND CENTRAL CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL • SPRING 2012 27


Events

Welcome Back Day Alumni and Students Connect During Annual Event

The month of September stands for"Back to School" so Welcome Back Day onSeptember 1 was timed perfectly. In addition to1970s alumni who toured the school building tosee how it had changed, recent graduates fromthe class of 2012 now joined the ranks of alumni,assuming a new role in the Central CatholicFamily. A great mix of parents, students andIronman fans, along with alumni, neighbors andfriends filled the stands to watch the Ironmentake on the Euclid Panthers in the gridironopener. Airplanes from the air show at BurkeLakefront Airport passed overhead on this early autumn day, an additional spectacleon a spectacular afternoon.

Dee Price ’89 and godson Quishann Johnson

Dwight Farmer ’84, Javier Smith’94, Randy Ramsey ’86, John

Abrams ’86, and a guest

Rita Wood Prinzo ’71, Suzanne Vanek Hovater ’71, Chris Filipowicz Polomsky ’71



Sherry Chancey-Clark ’91 andClaudia Woloszyn Straub ’72

Joe Tanko ’72 and wife Cindy Charles Kinney ’82 Emilia Ejsmont ’11, Irielle Foster-Nowden ’10,Marc’A Bickerstaff ’12, Dominique Hatchett ’11,

Cortney Milczewski ’11.


Ironmen

1963 St. MichaelMichael Nolan is retiredand lives in Cincinnati . Heand wife Mary Faust Nolanare parents of Tim, Shawn,Dan and Mike.

1966 OLLRobert Swift ’66 OLL hasbeen married to classmateDiane Zronek Swift for 43years. They have a son,Sean, and like to travel.Robert is an inspector oflanding gear for GoodrichCorp. and Diane works ashead cook for Parma Schools.

1968 OLLRev. Dr. Charlotte A(Swaney) Schmotzer servesas a Transitional Deacon atSt. Luke's Anglican andowns Lazarus House Counseling. She attendedCSU, Akron U and TrinityCollege, earning degrees in elementary education, clinical counseling andconflict management, graduating in 1975, 1992,2005 and earning her Ph.D.Charlene and husbandWayne and five children reside in Bath.

1969 SJCFrank A Kustra, now retired,attended Community College-Metro and majoredin communications. Helives in Sheffield Lake andhas five children.

1972Rose Karam attended CSU,majoring in accounting. Sheworks as a Senior InternalAuditor and is married toShamus Carney.

1973Katherine Ann Kaminski-Shubert moved to Floridato enhance her career posi-tion. Now living in LakewoodRanch, she works as a direc-tor of social services and ismarried to Robert Shubert.Her children are Kristian,Jakob and Jordan.

1974Robert W. Chase serves asa police officer for the Cityof Bedford. He graduatedfrom Baldwin Wallace in1979. His son Bobby beginshis second year in the U.S.Marine Corps following inhis grandpa's footsteps.Prayers are requested ashe deploys to Afghanistanin April of 2013. “Semper Fi,son, and God Bless.”

1975Eric L. Hill announces thathis daughter, Marley Hill,committed verbally to theUniversity of Cincinnatiwomen’s basketball program. Her high school,Columbus Africentric EarlyCollege, won the Division IIIgirls basketball champi-onship in March.

1976James Olschlager is a lieu-tenant in the Nevada High-way Patrol, where he servesas Commercial EnforcementCommander for the LasVegas District.

1977Regina Mack Tomekmajored in business at CSUand works as a financialadvisor. She and husbandThomas live in Lakewood.

Frank Nunez has been employed at the ClevelandPublic Library for 27 years,presently as a safety andprotective services supervisor

in a mobile patrol unit. Hisdaughter, Dana, graduatedfrom Ursuline College witha bachelors degree in art therapy. Her art was exhibited at the Avon LakePublic Library. She is planningfor medical school. Frank’sson Milo is a staff sergeantin the U.S. Air Force, and helooks forward to makingthe Air Force his career.

1980Ricardo Brown stopped in during the May openhouse, in town from Maryland for Mother’s Day.Visiting CCC with hisdaughter, he remarked,“Thanks for all the greatthings you’re doing here.”

Kathleen WolowiczRichards works as a career educator at CuyahogaValley Career Center. Shecompleted her bachelor’sdegree in social work atCSU in 1986. BroadviewHeights is home for herand husband Frank andthree children.

1983Darlene G. Calhoun worksas a customer service specialist at AAA Travel.Her Shaker Heights familyincludes Brittanie, Taylor,Hayley, Cydey and Charles.

1989Tina Lindway Cobbs worksas a receptionist and ismarried to Jay Cobbs. Shehas three children.

1990Kathy Kotwicki-Salvo is employed as an administrative assistant. Husband Steve and children Kyle and Kaitlyncomplete this Parma family.

1992Anthony Boey started hisown business, called A Twisted Mind Productionsand is a partner with a sistercompany View Screen,both ad agencies. They develop business logos,catalogs and web sites anddo photography, productionvideos and commercials. If any CCC alumni needhelp with their company’sadvertisement needs,please send him an e-mail [email protected].

Bill Loomer visited thecampus in June, droppedoff donations for a CCCfamily who had lost every-thing in a fire, and touredthe building with Miss Bednarchik. “I was im-pressed at how much thecampus has changed. As Itoured the school, it wasamazing how many fondmemories came rushingback. I'll always appreciatehaving had the opportunityto attend CCC,” he remarked.Bill recently received his4th Emmy Award Nominationas an investigative


Frank Nunez joins “The Vic &Paul Show” theatre party atSokolowski’s to celebrate withteammate Paul Barrosse ’76.


UpcomingReunions

Let us help you organize your event, contact the Alumni Office at 216-441-4700, ext. 261.


producer for 19 ActionNews. He and his wife havea one-year-old son.

1995Debert Cowsette enters hissecond year as defensiveline coach with the HamptonUniversity football program.He was a four-year playerat the University of Maryland,earning All-ACC honors. Aftergraduating, he was drafted bythe Washington Redskinsand continued his NFL career from 2000 to ’06 withthe New York Giants,Tampa Bay Buccaneersand Chicago Bears. Delbertand wife Alena have threechildren. He also owns anon-profit youth organization,

In Between The Lines, andis a co-founder of the Premiere IntermediateFootball League.

2000Dionna Johnson works as astate tested nursing assis-tant and is the mother ofJordin Johnson. Recentlyreconnected with CCC, shewants to be an activealumna and “show my babywhat a wonderful school Igraduated from.”

2001Olivia Walls Higbee andhusband Robert Higbeeare parents of Robyn. During the 2011-2012 yearOlivia served as CWPC

Chairperson for CEOGCParent Committee at herdaughter's HeadStart Center, Louis Stokes. Theirdaughter plans on going toSt. Stanislaus ElementarySchool 2013-2014 schoolyear as a kindergartener.

2011Cortney Milczewski madethe Dean’s List during herfirst year of nursing studyat Walsh University in North Canton.

Marcel Philpotts visitedCentral Catholic during theschool year, and mentionedplans to study firefightingat Tri-C and become a personal trainer.

65th Birthday Party for the Class of 1965at Mavis Winkles Restaurant on September 15, 2012

Class of 1963 – Lourdes50th Class reunion planned for the weekend of August 9, 2013.A weekend of activities include Saturday mass, school tour,and dinner. Please contact Joan Miano (Zvolensky) at 419-798-4397 [email protected] or Janice Evans (Sindelar) at 440-227-3264 [email protected].

In Memoriam

Sr. Mary Margaret McGovern,SND passed away in November,2011. After attending St. StephenHigh School, she entered theSisters of Notre Dame community,serving as a teacher and principal,and later as SND high schoolsupervisor and regional super-intendent for the Diocese ofCleveland. Known earlier as Sr.Mary St. Michael, she was thelast principal of St. Michael’sbefore it merged into CentralCatholic.

Charles A. Kahoun ’63 OLLentered into eternal rest in July,survived by his wife Marge andher children Holly and Patrick.Chuck was active in the localCzech community, and hadbeen a reliable store manager,bus driver and caregiver.

Rose Greczanik Dzigiel ’74passed away in July, survivedby children Sarah and Jasonand siblings Frank, Felicia andElizabeth Mills ’82.

Class of 1982 hold reunion on August 4, 2012 at Toscana Party Center.



6550 Baxter AvenueCleveland, OH 44105

216-441-4700www.centralcatholichs.org

NON-PROFIT ORGUS POSTAGE

PAIDCleveland, OH

Permit no.2753

Calendar of Events

Save the Date

Incoming Class of 2017 Open House – Consider Becoming an Ironman! We invite prospective students and their families to visit our Admissions Open House.

Sunday, November 4, 2012 12:30 – 3:30 pm

Scholarship/Placement Exam Dates (The Saturday tests are Scholarship based) Parents and Administrators Q&A during test timesrents and Administrators Q&A during test timesSaturdays, October 13 and November 17, 2012 Registration: 8:45 am 9:00 am – 10:00 am (Scholarship) $15 fee

Thursday, December 6, 2012 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm (Placement) $15

More information contact Admissions Coordinator, Ms. Carmella Reiger at [email protected] or 216-641-2056

Friday, January 4, 2013 Junior Varsity 6:00 pm ALUMNI NIGHT AT THE HOOPSVarsity 7:30 pm CCC vs. VASJ

Saturday, October 13, 2012 CLEAN UP + CLAMS8:00 am – 2:00 pmMarch 20, 2013 CALCUTTA 10TH ANNIVERSARY ANNUAL AUCTION6:00 pm

Not pictured:CordaireusHubbard


ccc fall2012 web

Documents