Class Notes 1964 -- Reunion June 19-21, 2009 |
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| fall 2008 | You heard it here first: Jim Joyce is busy writing a third book. Those of you who have read his first two, Pucker Factor 10 and Use Eagles If Necessary, know what a treat is in store for the discerning reader. Those who haven’t, you’ve got your assignment. Always busy on the entrepreneurial front, Jim has also developed an environmentally safe, liquid applied, erosion control product. Around the home, it’s perfect for sealing crushed rock applications in landscaping or garden pathways. Research it at Klingstone.com, where it receives a ringing endorsement from the superintendent of Arrowhead Country Club in Myrtle Beach, SC, where they are using it to restore all their sand traps. ... Congratulations to Lou Hlad, who has been installed as the Grand Knight of the 250 member Knights of Columbus Council #11402 in Dunwoody, GA. Lou has lived in Georgia since 1967, employed first with Lockheed, and then 26 years with Sprint. Currently working for AT&T, Lou and wife Martha have three children and one grandchild. Contact him at louhlad@bellsouth.net. ... Congrats as well to JCU board chair Allyn Adams, who recently received the Ohio Society of CPAs 2008 Gold Medal for Meritorious Service to the accounting profession. A retired partner of the Cleveland accounting firm of Deloitte & Touche, Allyn served in various leadership roles during 31 years in the CPA organization, and is a past president of the Cleveland chapter. ... Additional update on Jerry Zel. He left Cleveland after graduation and was employed in a variety of great locations, including Boston, Toronto, and Jacksonville. He and wife Suzy moved to West Palm Beach in 1980 and remain there today. Their son Cary, 43, lives in Miami, FL, with their three grandchildren. Jerry is an active body builder and was Mr. West Palm Beach Over 50 in 1993. Pass along some motivational tips, JZ. ... Received a quick note from Dick Koenig. He’s still plugging away at the corporate life and figuring on four more years as publisher of Flying magazine. By my reckoning that takes him to age 70. The Orange man, my old roomie, always did have work ethic galore, whether on the gridiron or off. “This fall marks the 45th football season since the class of ’64 team went undefeated, the last JCU gridiron group to do so. As team captain, Koenig exhibited unparalleled leadership throughout that memorable campaign.” ... A couple of items on the home front: wife Joanne has opened a website -- Apennybanked.com -- with her lifelike gypsum cement piggy banks; they’re great for teaching grandkids, godchildren, etc. the value of saving. My son Shane, 30, received his MBA from Cornell after six years working with hazardous chemicals. He specialized in sustainable business practices and is joining General Electric in their Alternate Fuels Division. ... Lastly a prayer for two departed JCU icons, Reverend Joseph Schell, SJ, and Tim Russert ’72. They carried the blue and gold banner with distinction. Onward On! God bless all Streaks. Frank |
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| summer 2008 | Lots of news centered around the windy city. The Des Plaines Daily Herald recently reported that Jim Capparelli’s establishment, Sim’s Bowl and Lounge, is up for sale. Originally opened 54 years ago by Jim’s aunt and uncle, Bill and Angie Sims, the bowling alley and restaurant, with its distinctive neon sign, has been heralded through the decades as a classic bulwark of downtown Des Plaines. Jim, who has owned and managed the operation for the past 32 years, is described in the article as “something of a classic himself.” No argument here. A combination of demographics, the city’s creation of a tax-increment financing district, and the decline of league bowling have merged into the perfect storm nudging the planned sale. Recognizing that the market may not allow this to happen quickly, Jim stays busy planning events such as the upcoming “Bowling with Santa” and catering to passionate regulars who lined up in praise of Sim’s, a testament to Jim’s management style: “really nice people, really good food”; “just like Cheers, a place where everyone knows your name”; and my favorite “the guy that sings Sinatra in the lounge kicks butt.” Best wishes, Jim Capp, you’ll be successful at whatever comes next. ... Tish and Tony Petricca have completed their move to the greater Tampa area in the sunshine state and provided new contact info: address 2602 Eagle Crest Court, Holiday, FL, 34691, 727.935.4361. Before their departure from Chicago, their son, Michael, was married to Claire Keegan in late November 2007. The week before, in a combination send-off to Florida and pre-wedding celebration, the assembled Petriccas and Keegans enjoyed a joint Thanksgiving dinner and bowl-off hosted by Capparelli at the afore-mentioned Sim’s Bowl. I wanted to report some bowling scores but no one was talking, not even the guy who sings Sinatra. ... A brief note from Ellen and Tom Ungashick reported 2007 travel to southern France and the Kona coast of Hawaii’s big island. Unfortunately the Hawaii trip was three days business only and they never left the hotel. However, Tom did recount their unexpected Halloween adventure in Lahaina, Maui, years back. The city is closed to auto traffic, there’s a makeshift bar on every corner, and everyone (except the Ungy’s) were in the most imaginative costumes. That’s on my bucket list. ... Received updated contact information for Suzy and Jerry Zel, now residing in Singer Island, Fla. Send mail to 7950 S. Military Trail, Suite 204, Lake Worth, FL 33467 - Jerryz18@aol.com. Jerry is currently vice president, operations for Mordecai Claim Service. They have raised two children, Cary 43 and Laura 41. ... Next summer is our 45th Reunion and you are urged to begin planning now. At this writing Fr. Joseph Shell, SJ, is reported in severely failing health. He was a pivotal icon in our lives and we are all thankful for the opportunity to have visited with him at the 40th reunion in 2004. Our prayers are with him. Until next time, God bless all Streaks. Frank | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| spring 2008 | We start with an apology to Nancy and Bill Dix. Their daughter’s correct name is Jennifer, which I bungled. The Dixs are lifelong Cleveland Browns fans and are thrilled with the Brownies’ spirited, highly competitive 2007 performance as are many of you from Northern Ohio. ... Jan and Tom Gazdic have now lived in Florida since 1993. Tom is retired from KPMG, and has recently served on the board and as treasurer of Wyndemere Country Club, and two terms as president. He is currently serving on the boards of NCH Healthcare System and Avow Hospice. Jan is a member of the Naples Philharmonic Choir and continues to run Physician Business Care, Inc. They cycled in Croatia last June and visited Russia in August. ... Ginny and Russ Centanni were also on the move, visiting two more continents. They toured Peru, Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands in South America. After they caught their breath they were off to China for 22 days. China was impressive with the centuries of history, but Russ reports that the pollution was so bad it really kicked up his asthma. He seriously wonders if it will affect the upcoming Olympics. They have now visited every continent but Antarctica, and are scheduling that for 2009. ... Ron Timpanaro visited Charlie Englehart’s home in McLean, Va., as part of a cross country motor trip last summer. During the layover Tippy discovered a hardcover of CIA Chief George Tenet’s autobiography personally inscribed from Tenet to Charles as “A Great American.” So say we all. Everyone remembers Charlie’s first book of stealth memoirs, "The Third World on a Senior Budget." He is busy on the sequel; look for "Zagreb and the Dalmatian Coast – Minefields That Bloom in the Spring," coming soon. ... The Detroit Austin Catholic Prep School newsletter arrived and there’s Al Rutledge on the front page, large as life, talking with both hands. Al encountered Kit Gentile ’63 who roomed with John Breen, Bob Mirguet, and Jim Heavey at the infamous 2085 Club for two years. Later, Larry Felter and I roomed with Breeno there in the summer of 1964 prior to our graduation in August. That summer’s big tune became our class song: “The Spirit of ’64” was a nationwide hit by Cleveland’s favorite local band in those days Bocky & The Visions. ... Terry Crogan - gaels1@aol.com - has a new snail mail address, 7410-C East Huntington Dr, Boardman, Ohio 44512. He stays very busy at Mahoning County Education Services Center as a school psychologist identifying and working exclusively with emotionally disturbed children and adolescents. He’s also a physical therapist at the Canfield Counseling Clinic in Canfield. ... Lastly; we mourn the passing of Coach John Ray, who guided the class of ’64 through two undefeated football seasons. Especially poignant were the memories shared on-line by John Kovach, Gus McPhie, and Dick Koenig about the tremendous positive impact that Coach Ray had on their lives. Reports in the South Bend and Lexington newspapers illustrate that he was as eminently respected and esteemed at Notre Dame and U Kentucky as he was by the JCU community. Incomparably well done, Coach, RIP. ... God bless all Streaks, Frank |
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| fall 2007 | Aloha! Dateline: Kihei Beach, Maui, Hawaii. Joanne and I are finishing two weeks in the 50th state. Forget Frommer’s and Fodor’s; here’s Kelley’s Hawaii in 30 words: surf, sand, snorkel, scuba, bike, hike, green flash volcano-top sunrise, golden sunsets, rainbows, white-knuckle single-lane cliff side roads, and a harrowing 800’ zip line run over a 350’ deep chasm. Dat’s thirty words, brudda. ... Dick Miller and wife Janice have recently moved from Charlotte, NC, to Fords Colony in Williamsburg, VA. Dick and Jan can be reached at dickjanmiller@cox.net. As former Motowners, Dick and I commiserated about the Detroit Tigers folding like a cheap lawn chair down the stretch. Dick asked for contact information on a couple of classmates, but our extensive info files only had snail mail for each. ... Here’s another IMPORTANT reminder to everyone, read Ted Bidigare and John Glei, take a minute and send your e-mail address to John Breen, our estimable ’64 web master - jabreen333@sbcglobal.net - to join the class of ’64 info hotline. You’ll have to endure a few bad jokes and delete more often, but you will pick up good info about ’64 classmates and happenings in between JCU quarterlies. We guarantee no obligations and no solicitations. ... Tim de Bord and wife Rose are splitting time between Monument, CO, and Lake County, IN. Tim retired from the Navy several years ago and is currently working part time for the University of Illinois as senior consultant helping companies improve their operating performance. Their kids live in California and Colorado and they have two grandkids. In response to Tim’s comment that “getting old sucks” I respond with an old Hawaiian proverb: “Age is relative; when you’re over the hill you pick up speed.” (Seen on a t-shirt biking down Haleakala Crater). We can’t mention de Bord without recalling his Best Actor Award for a spectacular Stunt Night performance: “...There’ll be a wolf at the door just you wait and see; we’ll sell door to door in spite of our degree...” Dave Betz won runner-up acting honors and the class of ’64 took the Triple Crown that night, winning best production as well. Behind the scenes creative energy was provided by Bill Smith, John Schultheiss, Bob McLoughlin, Bob George, Mike Blandford, and Mike Griffin. In addition, Larry Felter was Stunt Night chairman and Mike Herald was MC. Seems like yesterday, you guys. ... Matt MacFadden contacted me to question my comparing Devon Hester’s runback style to Jim Heavey. He feels I gave Hester too much credit: “Jimmy had more moves, more class, set up his blockers better, and is more humble.” Plus Heave was generous with those souvenir chinstraps. Matt and wife Rosie are still living in Leawood, KS. Matt worked as vice president, human resources for California Steel Industries, Inc., through 2003. Rosie continues to substitute teach 75% of the time. Their daughter is a sophomore at the University of Kansas (Rock, Chalk, Jayhawk!) pursuing studies in psychiatry and journalism. Matt has had some arterial problems and had his right carotid, blocked 99%, replaced with a cow artery. He says this has caused him to give up red meat as he is philosophically opposed to cannibalism. Faced with possible heart surgery, Matt elected to go for a medicine, nutrition and diet solution and has dropped his cholesterol from 285 to 135. That is hugely inspirational. Contact Matt - macjr53@aol.com. ... Received a very nice letter from Nancy, wife of Bill Dix. Bill retired in 1996 after teaching 32 years in Cleveland’s inner city schools, all at Audubon Junior High. Nancy and Bill recently celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary and a have a daughter, Nancy. Bill is enjoying traveling in retirement, especially to St. Kitts. Prior to JCU, Bill played Cleveland high school football at St. Stanislaus High and currently coaches at Lakewood High. By my reckoning, his commitment to Cleveland and its youth is exactly what JCU President, Robert Niehoff, SJ, has been aggressively advocating since October 2005, and Bill’s commitment dates back over four decades. This is another example of the comprehensive depth and character of the class of ’64, which remains a source of wonder and pride for me, as I’m sure it is for all of you. ... This brings me, lastly to two fine gentlemen who passed from our ranks this last quarter. Norb Bonfield and Gene Clendenning were two outstanding Carroll men who will remain in our hearts and prayers forever. ... Merry Christmas and a healthy New Year to all. God bless all Streaks, Frank |
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| summer 2007 | It’s September and back to school. Here’s a pop quiz: What do Bob Arber and Peter Carey have in common? One Hint: “They Tried But They Died!” That’s right. Page 214 of the ’64 yearbook, there are the lads, both sporting nice shiners, playing for the ill-fated JCU Hockey Club. The boys of winter were good. Forget the Stanley Cup, how about the Buckeye Cup: JCU 14-Ohio State 4. Roll over Woody Hayes. Let’s catch up with both these great guys ... After graduation, Bob Arber served two years in the Navy Nuclear Sub Service and subsequently earned two master’s degrees. He’s been married to wife Valerie 34 years, and they have one son, Amos, nickname Moe, who is currently in his third year of grad school for landscape architecture. Valerie is a visual artist who has had several shows in the U.S., and a year ago showed in Basel, Switzerland. Bob owns a printing/publishing company in Marfa, TX, built inside an old movie theater, and has published many well-known contemporary artists, including Donald Judd. Bob keeps a collection of 13 motorcycles – 12 old British and one new Italian job with a Ferrari engine. Arber into fine art and speedy vehicles; who woulda thought? Contact Bob at arbermarfa@yahoo.com or visit www.30x30cmproject.com. ... Peter Carey retired in January ’05 after 40 years with Connecticut/Mass Mutual Life. He and wife Patty now spend winters in the Rockies skiing. They enjoy travel and lots of golf. Peter remains active on several non-profit entities in the Greater Hartford, CT, area. They have four kids (“all off the payroll”) and seven grandkids. Their oldest son, a West Point graduate, volunteered for a turn in Iraq after being out of the service for six years. Thankfully, he returned safely in May 2006. Their second son is a ’92 JCU grad, the 4th generation of Careys to graduate from JCU. That’s gotta be the record. Peter names retirement a “great invention” and says he’s really looking forward to the 45th reunion in 2009. Amen, brother Pete. ... Joe Stevens, successfully recovering from triple bypass surgery in December 2006, says he’s lucky and feels like a new man. He and wife Serena recently vacationed with their entire family of 12, including six grandkids under the age of nine, at Emerald Isle, NC, where they have a beach house. Joe owns and operates four funeral homes in and around Altoona with son Joel picking up much of the day-to-day routine. He recently served a stint as international president of Selected Independent Funeral Directors and made friends all over the world. Now, rather than lose money at golf, he and Serena travel the globe visiting and exchanging industry views. Their entire family remains in Altoona, so they’re able to stay active with all their grandkids. Truly a blessing. Contact them at jstevens7814@atlanticbb.net. ... Tony Petricca writes that wife Tish is well on her way to bionic woman status, having undergone left elbow replacement and upper cervical vertebrae fusion this year. She is recovering well and we wish her speedy recovery. Tony also alerts us that he and Tish, Jim Capparelli, and Marie and Tad Walters will be visiting Kathleen and Tom Nash at Nash’s in Geneva, WI, in July. We’ll be watching for any unusual seismic activity with interest. ... With the start of football season, I have to ask: Am I the only one who is reminded of Jim Heavey’s runback prowess and style every time Devin Hester of the Chicago Bears takes off? Heave, Heave, Heave! ... And, oh, yeah, don’t call Mike Herald unless you want to listen ad infinitum about the Indy Super Colts. ... That’s all for now. Thanks for all the input. Until next time, God bless all Streaks! Frank |
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| spring 2007 | Happy summer! I hope this column finds you healthy, well supplied with 30 (minimum) sun block, tennis racquets restrung, and golf clubs bright and shiny ... Al Rutledge writes that he’s ready for 2007 golf -- his ball retriever has been re-gripped and his 1 iron has been carefully removed from its cosmoline-lined winter storage container. I told Al of my recent cervical spine operation for a compressed spinal cord and requested strokes when we match up this summer. His response: “bring your x-rays and we’ll ‘discuss’ it.” Lobo y olla, indeed! I think Mo smells blood in the water. ... In other surgical matters, Pat Nally visited Ann Arbor at year’s end for repair of a left iliac aneurysm (abdomen) which was discovered during a routine checkup. Four months later, Pat reports he’s getting back to normal activity. Be wary of an opportunistic phone call from Rutledge, Mr. President. ... Tony Petricca, Ray Hofer and Jim Capparelli braved Chicago’s zero degree temperatures to get together at Zol’s annual winter bowling bash. I’ve got no further details, but you know there are grins afoot when these guys get together. I distinctly remember them and Tad Walters, spring of 1964, booth at Nagle’s, hair combed down over their eyes, singing along with Beatles songs hour after hour. Tad’s comment, “when those guys cancel Ed Sullivan with stage fright, we’ll be ready” SIGH, what might have been. ... Closer to the sun, the second annual Sanibel Island luncheon expanded to seven this March. Charter members Tim Logan, Tom Moore, and John Breen were joined by Tom Gazdic, Ross Tisci, Jim Corsica, and Lou Mastrian. Further details are also spotty from this meeting. Are we detecting a pattern? ... One of our finest accomplishments is the Class of 1964 Scholarship Fund in commemoration of our 20th year reunion. Since the inception of the fund in 1984 our class has granted scholarships to 22 daughters, sons, nieces, and nephews of our classmates. Highly noteworthy in 2006 was the first scholarship granted to a grandchild, Tyler Hankinson class of 2010, grandson of John P. Krebs. The first of many grandkids to be so rewarded, I suspect. The fund continues to be ably administered by Allyn Adams and John Baker. Thank you, men, from all of us. ... Lastly, on a very sad note, Tony Petricca and Tom Leahy wrote in early February of the passing of Mike “Ripper” Collins on January 30, 2007. The notice was received just past the March issue deadline, thus the delay in this report. Mike was a great guy who would always lend a hand or do a favor. I worked with Ripper on many an IXY project; you could always count on him in a tough situation. The news prompted a great many messages; Pat Nally wrote: “Mike was a spirited classmate with a constant mischievous smile and a twinkle in his eye.” Indeed, witness his class picture on yearbook page 180 and that twinkle leaps right off the page. Our prayers are with Mike’s wife Pam and their children Brian and Kerry. Rest in peace, Mike. We will remember you. ... Until next time, God bless all Streaks! Frank |
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| winter 2007 | Happy springtime, everyone. How about this: We’re essentially 3/5 of our way to reunion 2009, at which time we will all be (A) eligible for social security, (B) getting used to a new POTUS, and (C) in attendance at University Heights. Make your reunion resolution NOW! ... OK, down to business. The West Coast of Florida continues to add at least one Streak per column: After 37 years practicing law in his hometown of Auburn, NY, and raising daughters Jessica and Kristin, Ross Tisci and wife Robin have joined the burgeoning group of classmates re-locating to the Gulf Coast. Bonita Springs is the richer for their presence - rmtisci@yahoo.com. Ross’s personal note expressed an interest in hooking up with Jim Corsica and others located there. (You’ve been warned, Box.) All you nouveau-gators please ensure that we receive reports on the mega Super Bowl and St. Patty’s parties I’m sure are brewing. ... Speaking of Bowls, Rus Centanni is claiming full credit for the Boise State miracle over Oklahoma, including both the flea-flicker and the Statue of Liberty plays, as well as urging the cheerleader to say “yes” to the marriage proposal on national TV. ... Gene Sullivan and wife Joyce attended the Meineke Car Care Bowl in Charlotte, NC, on December 30 to see Boston College vs. the US Naval Academy. Luxury suite, no less, surrounded by Naval Academy grads. RHIP. Sully attended Naval OCS after graduating Carroll, and spent two years sea duty on an amphibious assault ship based in Norfolk and then two years at the Pentagon. The Middies lost a last minute thriller, and Gene’s comments echoed most mid-west fans from Columbus to Ann Arbor to South Bend: “Oh well, next year!” ... Next year? Next house! The Ungys are on the move, again. Ellen and Tom Ungashick have moved into their third residence since relocating to the greater Atlanta area - ungy@bellsouth.net. Their previous homes there have been featured in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution and Better Homes and Gardens. Watch this space for Ellen’s continuous home improvement miracles as she continues to restore Atlanta one property at a time. What happened to that wall-sized TV? We send best wishes for their upcoming summer family reunion in Hilton Head by which time the number of Ungashick grandchildren will have grown from seven to eight. ... The ’64 E-Net recently carried a New Year’s message from class president Pat Nally. He and wife Louisa reside in Grand Rapids, MI, and his remarks extolled the heartland virtues of deceased President Gerald R. Ford from that town. Amen to that. Would that today’s polls had both his principled convictions and the courage to act on them. Pat’s closing wish for everyone, “may 2007 be filled with new learning and adventures.” ... Send me your summer stories. Until next time, God bless all Streaks. Frank | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| fall 2006 |
Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy New Year to all. Joanne and I are safely returned from a tremendous Alaskan adventure. We cannot manufacture enough superlatives to do the experience justice. Mountain ranges galore, a thrilling sled dog ride, bush planes, glaciers, fiords, glorious wildlife, all in a setting so majestic it takes your breath away. I was finally able to verify the existence of an establishment I was sure was myth. Skinny Dick’s Halfway Inn is there, south of Fairbanks on the road to Denali. ... Many thanks to Russ Centanni for a comprehensive report from the 42-1/2 year reunion. We had 11 classmates in attendance, with three from out of state. Participants included Russ and wife Ginny from Idaho, Bob and Jude Heutsche from Pennsylvania, and John DePerro from Virginia. Ohioans included Gordy and Lyn Priemer, Tom and Mary Leahy, Jerry and Mariann Grdina, John and Peggy Baker, Allyn Adams, Jim Williams, Tim Logan, and Gus McPhie. Friday night festivities included drinks and snacks at Priemer’s, followed by dinner at Larchmere Tavern. Saturday included, alas, a loss to Ohio Northern, followed by drinks and hors d’oeuvres at Leahy’s featuring a viewing of the 40th reunion DVD. The evening was capped with dinner at the Shaker Country Club. The reunion turnout was short of the typical ’64 performance, and I noted a spate of late regret messages the last couple of weeks before the event, including my own mea culpa. I had every intention of attending until my Godson of 34 years announced his wedding that weekend in Newport, RI. Al and Cathy Rutledge, the groom’s aunt and uncle, were also in attendance there. We did hoist a Harpoon Lager to the Class of ’64 at Flo’s Clam Shack that Saturday afternoon. ... Meet me in Augusta. Congratulations again to Ron Timpanaro. Hot on the heels of his first hole-in-one, Tippy now announces that he has scored Master’s tickets for next April. I know this will irritate Tony Compisi who is still awaiting documentation of the HIO. See if he’s got an extra ticket, Tony. ... Tom Etowski and wife Mary have moved to a new residence in Fayetteville, NC. They can be reached by e-mail at Tom@showcasenc.com. ... Received a nice note from Lou Mastrian. He and wife Elaine have a condo in Naples, FL, where they spend the winter. Lou read the last report on the three musketeers from Sanibel Island, Tom Moore, Tim Logan, and John Breen and suggests some Blue Streak networking on the Florida West Coast. Could make for some interesting get-togethers, starting with the Super Bowl. Keep me posted, lads. ... John Breen and wife Mary Helen returned safely from Ireland. Reddog writes glowingly of the family trip to Ireland, with kind words in equal measure for Guinness, Jamieson’s, and the Old Head golf course. Ireland is a magical land and all travelers venturing there are warned they will lose their heart forever. ... Keep me posted on your activities. Until next time, God bless all Streaks. Frank
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summer 2006 |
| Just when you thought it was safe to go back to Florida, listen up. It seems that Tom Moore, Tim Logan and John Breen have all been wintering at Sanibel Island for decades but had never crossed paths until early ’06. Needless to say, a lengthy lunch ensued, featuring as much riotous ribaldry as our age (and their wives) would allow. Typical of Sanibel devotees everywhere, their correspondence made it very clear that this barrier island is now closed, and that none of us are invited to this last vestige of the “real” Florida. Just as well; any unfortunate soul walking into that group would be greeted by Logan’s famous Pacelli war cry: “Now we have four, let’s play some “nucks.” They loyally recommend the “Doc Ford” adventure novels by Sanibel-based Randy Wayne White. My guess is that our three heroes have unwittingly served as the basis for some of White’s rather zany characters. ... Received a humorous message from Charlie Englehart. It seems that he was reviewing old copies of the Carroll News and got absorbed by a piece about the punt return exploits of Jim Heavey. In his words. “Noting the forced jargon, purple prose, and exaggerated metaphor, I scanned back to the top to see who had written such a dreadful piece - and it was me!” Alas, Charles, that is the fate of many who labored in the philosophical vineyards of Socristotal and Descartes. ... Gene Sullivan and wife Joyce have relocated to Tega Cay in the greater Charlotte, NC, area. Sully - esully@comporium.net - is now serving as the controller for Retail Solutions Provider Association, a not for profit company. ... Tony Compisi writes that he won’t insist on notarized witness statements of Ron Timpanaro’s hole-in-one (reported last issue) as long as Tippy buys him the traditional at their next meeting. How about Sanibel in January? ... The Chicago boys are becoming quite the globe trotters. Bill Smith reports his recent travels to Montana, the Idaho chimney area, Tennessee to visit brother Burke Smith ’62 and South Carolina. Meanwhile, John Breen is preparing a packed itinerary for an autumn visit to Ireland with six of his family. Drive left, Reddog. ... Until next time then, to the Breen’s and all the Streaks of ’64, an Irish blessing -- “May the sweet music of laughter lift your spirits, and, always, may God fill your heart with peace and understanding.” Frank
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spring 2006 |
| Its three months until the mid-reunion at Homecoming 2006, September 22-24. Football game, old friends, tall stories, exaggerated memories, and a beer tent! Plenty of time to cement your participation plans. Jim Williams reports that we can expect a reminder card in June and a registration form in July. You can also find info on the jcu.edu web site. ... Really good news! Jim Joyce has a new book being published entitled Use Eagles If Necessary: A Psychoanalyst’s Story. At time of this writing (April) Eagles was being serialized in the Rocky Mountain News. You can order directly through James A. Rock & Company Publishers - www.rockpublishing.com. Those who read Jim’s Pucker Factor 10 will need no further prompting. ... Tom Ungashick is busily growing his new business, White Horse Advisors, in partnership with his son, Patrick. A fee based financial advisory firm with 30 employees in four states, they specialize in the needs of privately owned businesses, featuring estate planning, retirement strategies, and wealth management. Visit their impressive web site - www.whitehorseadvisors.com. ... Tom Maroney and wife Dianne, back from a journey to Poland, report youngest daughter Keri’s recent wedding in New York City. Their other two daughters, Megan and Erin each have three children. No need to belabor here the joys of grandkids. Tom is the founder and CEO of Banner Therapy Products, providing a single marketplace for over 6000 professional-quality physical fitness, rehab, and health products. Visit his website - bannertherapy.com. ... On the topic of health and physical fitness, time now to place the highly coveted “FK recommends” designation on two inspiring and practical books for young-at-heart seniors: Ready, Set, Go Synergy Fitness by Phil Campbell and Younger Next Year by Chris Crowley and Henry S. Lodge, MD. These two are a large cut above the average exercise tomes and are guaranteed to get you into your heart monitor and onto the exercise machine of your choice. ... Moving from good health to good sports, Ron Timpanaro reports his first hole-in-one, 7-iron 145 yards, recorded at Kingwood CC, TX, in January. The bad news: his playing partner alerted the clubhouse at the turn and club members expecting the traditional free drink were hanging from the rafters when he finished the round. Ron can expect a suspicious inquiry from Tony Compisi, who grilled me when I reported my ace a couple of years ago. Bring your notarized witness certificates to the mid-reunion, Tippy. ... Looking forward to seeing you all in University Heights, September 22-24. Until then, God bless all Streaks. Frank
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winter 2006 |
One housekeeping reminder: if you’re not in the class day-to-day e-net, send an e-mail to web spinner John Breen - jabreen333@sbcglobal.net. ... Warm Christmas greetings to all. We’ll begin with two stocking-stuffer book recommendations: Charlie Englehart highly recommends First In by Gary Schroen, a terrific autobiographical account by the CIA team leader of the first response into Afghanistan one week after September 11, laying the groundwork for the Special Forces entry. Highly informative and compelling, this story puts you on the scene; much like our own Jim Joyce’s acclaimed Pucker Factor 10 which recounts his helicopter adventures in Vietnam. Both books rate the FK 4-star award. ... In September, another former chopper pilot, Ted Bidigare, along with Al and Cathy Rutledge, Frank and Joanne Kelley, and John Glei, gathered for the 45th reunion of Austin Catholic High School Class of ’60 in Detroit. As the evening wore on, Bidigare shared several complimentary stories of Glei’s heretofore un-chronicled prowess piloting river craft in Vietnam. The class of ’64 had many heroes during those years. ... Congratulations to Bob Klepac, who has been honored by JCU, receiving the Nicholas DiCaprio Award for Outstanding Alumni in Psychology. Bob was also elected to his second term as treasurer of the Society of Clinical Psychology and is currently president of the Clinical Psychology Specialty Council. I’ve suggested before that Bob has been greatly assisted in his outstanding career by the wealth of stimulating subjects found within the ranks of our early classmates. ... Tony Culicchia established the Lucrezia Culicchia Award for Teaching Excellence at JCU in 1990 and it has been presented annually since. Nominations must include a minimum of three recommendations from students and at least two from faculty colleagues. This year’s winner, Mariana Ortega, Ph.D., is currently featured on the JCU web site and I highly recommend you listen to her introduction and her comments. We’ve all discussed how one teacher or another was an extraordinary inspiration or mentor during our time at Carroll. How perfect that Tony was able to discover a way for subsequent generations to express their thanks in a timely fashion. Google “Culicchia Award” and you’ll discover many past award winners and the esteem in which this award is held. Well done, Tony. We miss you. ... The JCU web site also contains the brilliant and challenging inaugural speech of incoming JCU President Robert Niehoff, SJ. The Class of ’64 was represented at the ceremony with appropriate character and dignity by Tom Leahy. Father Niehoff was strongly impressed during the interview process by the passion of the JCU community, board of director members, and alumni. Amen to that. ... Brings back memories of several great prez, especially our own Joe Schell and the great Mike Lavelle, who once joked that the Jesuit education, with its concentration on Greek and Latin only prepared you for one job – Roman Emperor. Upon Fr. Lavelle’s premature death, Culicchia stated that Father Mike was one who could “talk with crowds, walk with kings, and fill the unforgiving minute with 60 seconds worth of distance run.” If that doesn’t beautifully sum up the JCU experience: Tony, an unrepentant business major, quoting Rudyard Kipling. ... A happy and healthy New Year to all. God bless all Streaks, Frank
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fall 2005 |
One housekeeping reminder: if you’re not in the class day-to-day e-net, send an e-mail to web spinner John Breen - jabreen333@sbcglobal.net. ... Warm Christmas greetings to all. We’ll begin with two stocking-stuffer book recommendations: Charlie Englehart highly recommends First In by Gary Schroen, a terrific autobiographical account by the CIA team leader of the first response into Afghanistan one week after September 11, laying the groundwork for the Special Forces entry. Highly informative and compelling, this story puts you on the scene; much like our own Jim Joyce’s acclaimed Pucker Factor 10 which recounts his helicopter adventures in Vietnam. Both books rate the FK 4-star award. ... In September, another former chopper pilot, Ted Bidigare, along with Al and Cathy Rutledge, Frank and Joanne Kelley, and John Glei, gathered for the 45th reunion of Austin Catholic High School Class of ’60 in Detroit. As the evening wore on, Bidigare shared several complimentary stories of Glei’s heretofore un-chronicled prowess piloting river craft in Vietnam. The class of ’64 had many heroes during those years. ... Congratulations to Bob Klepac, who has been honored by JCU, receiving the Nicholas DiCaprio Award for Outstanding Alumni in Psychology. Bob was also elected to his second term as treasurer of the Society of Clinical Psychology and is currently president of the Clinical Psychology Specialty Council. I’ve suggested before that Bob has been greatly assisted in his outstanding career by the wealth of stimulating subjects found within the ranks of our early classmates. ... Tony Culicchia established the Lucrezia Culicchia Award for Teaching Excellence at JCU in 1990 and it has been presented annually since. Nominations must include a minimum of three recommendations from students and at least two from faculty colleagues. This year’s winner, Mariana Ortega, Ph.D., is currently featured on the JCU web site and I highly recommend you listen to her introduction and her comments. We’ve all discussed how one teacher or another was an extraordinary inspiration or mentor during our time at Carroll. How perfect that Tony was able to discover a way for subsequent generations to express their thanks in a timely fashion. Google “Culicchia Award” and you’ll discover many past award winners and the esteem in which this award is held. Well done, Tony. We miss you. ... The JCU web site also contains the brilliant and challenging inaugural speech of incoming JCU President Robert Niehoff, SJ. The Class of ’64 was represented at the ceremony with appropriate character and dignity by Tom Leahy. Father Niehoff was strongly impressed during the interview process by the passion of the JCU community, board of director members, and alumni. Amen to that. ... Brings back memories of several great prez, especially our own Joe Schell and the great Mike Lavelle, who once joked that the Jesuit education, with its concentration on Greek and Latin only prepared you for one job – Roman Emperor. Upon Fr. Lavelle’s premature death, Culicchia stated that Father Mike was one who could “talk with crowds, walk with kings, and fill the unforgiving minute with 60 seconds worth of distance run.” If that doesn’t beautifully sum up the JCU experience: Tony, an unrepentant business major, quoting Rudyard Kipling. ... A happy and healthy New Year to all. God bless all Streaks, Frank
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| summer 2005 |
It’s September and the grandkids are back to school. I’m busy with AARP-approved mental exercises in preparation for dodging questions about New Math and Old English. That’s a bit tame for Jerry Gladysz, who went back to school at Texas Christian and completed the Executive MBA course. The class met two full days every two weeks with 40+ hours of homework in between. Simultaneously Jerry also completed his first full semester teaching Public Relations fundamentals to a class of 60 undergraduate TCU “Horned Frogs” (a world-class nickname spotlighted by Dan Jenkins’ novel Semi-Tough). Jerry fills his spare time running Market Relations, Inc., a full service marketing communications firm, which he founded in 1992. He’s written two books on snow skiing with Taos Ski Valley, the premier alpine ski resort in northern New Mexico. He and wife Pamela have raised two daughters in the Fort Worth area and celebrated their 37th anniversary in June. ... A nice letter from Ken Beres justifiably proud of his son, Tom, who just received his doctorate in genetics in June from the University of Texas Southwestern. Enroute to the doctorate Tom made a discovery regarding pancreas-specific gene expression that the university parlayed into an $800,000 grant. Ken observed his son defend his dissertation. In Ken’s words, he bet the over/under on how long he would understand the subject matter at two minutes. Unfortunately he misplaced his copy of The Pancreas for Dummies, thus could not pull the time honored JCU all-nighter, and reports he hung in there for +/- 3 seconds discounting the mentor’s introduction. Son Tom now heads to the University of Utah for postgraduate work in muscle development while Ken remains self-employed in risk management in Detroit. ... On a different topic Ken and I recalled the ’99 JCU reunion when about a dozen of us stayed semi-awake on Saturday night as Dallas & Buffalo played the Stanley Cup championship game into 3 overtimes. The tension in a sudden death game for all the marbles is thick and everyone in the lounge that night was thankful for the comic relief provided when Bill Smith and Jim Heavey wandered in after midnight carrying the severed parking lot control arm. (Think not? I have that picture) ... On to the Myrtle Beach golf trip. Paraphrasing William Tecumseh Sherman, “golf is hell.” Everyone’s favorite marine, Ron Timpanaro had us up at five a.m. each morning for a three-mile jog and a series of pushups, sit-ups, and squat thrusts. Evenings were eclectic as each participant gave a symposium on mesmerizing topics: Honing the Cliché for the 21st Century (Al Rutledge); Maximize Your Golf Course Cell Phone Productivity (Mike Herald, his golf travel bag is the size of a small mausoleum – Jimmy Hoffa solved?); Third World Travel on the Senior Budget (Charlie Englehart, who’s been everywhere); Shooting Birdies on No Sleep and Less Practice (Bill Smith); The Air Cav Officer as Den Mother (John Breen, who maintained the kp roster and grog inventory flawlessly and played good golf on a still-healing ankle); Touching Your Inner Wine Expert (Jim Heavey, who pronounced each taste as “sultry and provocative” no matter which box it came from). Lack of space precludes relating the one covert story that Charlie declassified for this column, which amazingly solves the twin riddles of Roswell Area 51 and the continuing evolution of Michael Jackson simultaneously. ... In closing, we note the passing of a true ’64 legend, Eddie Christie from Detroit. It was a tribute to his spirit and the way he was cherished that the internet was alive with Ed Christie stories for a full week as we all celebrated his life in the truly Jesuit way, remembering all that was great about him. Never one for the mundane, Ed was master of the grand gesture. His ingenuity in solving the dilemma of no bathrooms on the travel bus alone insured his unanimous election to the Collegiate Glee Club Hall of Fame. In his outstanding business career Ed worked a number of international positions inexorably leading to his own consulting company, Trade Assistance Corp. So adept was he that the U.S. Government became his largest client and eventually wised up and hired Ed into the Department of Commerce where he served for 15 years, his assignments taking him to more than 60 countries. RIP, Eddie, we love you. ... Until next time, God bless all Streaks! Frank
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spring 2005 |
Aaaah, summer! Only four years to Reunion 2009. Mark your calendars. Eight of us, Bill Smith, Al Rutledge, Dave McClenahan, Ron Timpanaro, John Breen, Jim Heavey, Charlie Englehart, and yours truly are getting a head start, meeting in Myrtle Beach in late June to discuss handicaps, global economics, and Charlie’s whereabouts for the past 40 years. Watch this space for a full report on high jinks, low scores, and eagerly anticipated witty repartee. There’s a highly authentic German Gasthaus in Myrtle that will transport Smitty back to Munich ca. 1966, where he sheltered me and 25 7th Army truckers after a 20 hour snow-blown convoy in January of that year. The owner promised that Heav could play the stump fiddle along with the ompah band. Also, esteemed barristers McClenahan and Rutledge are scheduled to debate the constitutionality of the Ferengi Rules of Acquisition. ... Russ Centanni has compiled a really great DVD of the ’04 reunion weekend; contact him for a copy; have your credit card handy to offset production and shipping costs. ... Anytime I see footage of our reunions I immediately think of the zenith, Dave Betz’s 25th reunion speech in 1989: “The nuns told me I’d go blind if I continued to do (that), so I asked if I could just do it until I needed glasses.” ... Two movies with nearly cult level following have recently received the coveted “FK recommends” designation and are hereby noted for your summer leisure - Sideways and Napoleon Dynamite. Tell me what you think. ... Tom Ungashick proudly advises that wife Ellen is up to her old tricks; check out the June edition of Better Homes and Gardens for Ellen’s latest efforts to bring class and dignity to greater Atlanta. Joanne and I will be visiting them in November and we will file a further dispatch at that time. ... Received a nice note from Woody Wachter who started at Carroll in ’58 and graduated with us in ’64 (we recognize everyone’s burning desire to be in the Class of ’64 and we magnanimously operate under a “big tent” philosophy). Woody married Notre Dame College grad Mary Kathleen Clark in 1965. Residing in Wheaton, IL, they will celebrate their 40th anniversary in October. Woody reports five kids and 14 grandkids. His greatest claim to fame in the quadrangle years was founding the annual “Fat Man’s Race.” More and more of us are eligible for that worthy event as time goes on. ... Lastly, in memoriam, we sadly note the passing of Donald (Terry) North, who earned both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in mathematics at JCU. Terry was head of the FBI Organized Crime Task Force in New York City, supervising a staff of 500 including 200 federal agents and 35 police detectives. He is credited as the prime mover of almost 300 convictions of top and middle echelon mafia leaders in New York and New Jersey during the ’90s, including John Gotti and Vittorio Amuso of the Gambino and Luchese families. Retired from the FBI, Terry was most recently working as a consultant to the Department of Homeland Security. Well done, Terry. RIP. ... God bless all Streaks, Frank
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winter 2005 |
Well, its March 2005, how’s everyone doing on their New Year’s resolutions? Meet me at South Beach, Dr Atkins ... Congratulations to Bob Klepac on two recent awards: his psychology internship program at Wilford Hall Medical Center in San Antonio, TX, was named “Outstanding Training Program” by the Association for the Advancement of Behavior Therapy; then the Association of Psychological Postdoctoral and Intern Programs presented him with a Special Recognition for Distinction in Psychology Internship Training. Can part of Bob’s success be attributed to our many JCU classmates who provided an early and stimulating curiosity about their behavior? ... Denny Marini wrote from Ormond Beach, FL. Hit by three hurricanes, he and wife Kathy suffered no major damage, but massive cleanup. Denny, retired and is consulting in Leadership Development and Business Excellence Assessments, reports eight grandkids throughout the southeast, thereby topping my last report of seven grandkids each for Tom and Ellen Ungashick and Russ and Ginny Centanni. It seems Centanni and Ungashick have added aqua landscaping to the competitive mix: Last time we reported on the Ungashick’s saltwater pool; now comes Centanni reporting his construction of a koi pond, and 50-foot stream with waterfalls. I’m not sure where the Centanni’s found time to spend 15 days in Sicily in November, and as you receive this they will be visiting Rome and Florence with the JCU Italian Department culminating with Easter Mass at the Vatican. Buon viaggio ... and Aloha! Mike and Beverly Naylon and Gene and Colleen Clendenning along with other friends spent Christmas and celebrated New Year’s Eve on Waikiki Beach in Honolulu, HI. Sunsets, rainbows galore, and old friends. Good choice, guys. ... Two tsunami “close calls” were reported. The Naylon’s daughter, Colleen, cancelled a vacation stop on the beach at Sri Lanka for the week of December 26. Likewise, Jim and Barbara Joyce were relieved to hear that all is well from Barbara’s sister and her husband who were in the Phuket, Thailand area as part of their circumnavigation of the globe on their 40-foot sailboat. It’s a small world and Mother Nature can be a harsh mistress. ... Gordie and Lynn ’87G Priemer celebrate the college graduation of last daughter, Anne, who is going into the Peace Corps for two years. Gordie says it’s to get far away from dad, but I suspect higher motives. ... Bernie Canepari reports that his next acting project is a part in the movie “The O in Ohio.” Asked to summarize the part, Bernie deprecatingly responded “Don’t blink.” ... A final report from John Breen on the Jim Joyce Autumn Golf Open in Waynesville, NC: Joyce took all the money, Bill Smith told the most retirement stories, and not surprisingly, Jim Heavey eschewed the golf to meet the citizens of Waynesville in local watering holes. It’s rumored that he may be on the ballot for Alderman next fall. Breen, who missed the ’04 event due to cataclysmic motorcycle tendencies, says he’ll be at the autumn ’05 event no matter what -- just in time to go door-to-door for the Heavey campaign. ... Allyn Adams successfully chaired the search for a new executive director for the JCU Entrepreneurs Association. The JCUEA Web site is one of many great ways to stay connected to the alma mater. Also try Carrollnewsonline.com, and you can tweak Google to feed your daily or weekly updates about all JCU news. ... And lastly, back-to-back good fortune for the Kelleys: Joanne and I had the blessing of a third grandchild, Justin Joshua Hujack, in Philadelphia on December 1 -- and to celebrate, on a blustery 39 degree December 2, your writer rifled a perfect 8-iron into the wind 125 yards for his first hole-in-one. Ho hum ... Until next time, best wishes to all. Frank
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fall 2004 |
Warm holiday greetings wherever this may find you. ... Congratulations to Bernie Canepari, named by Cleveland SCENE Magazine as 2004 Best Actor for his portrayal of super-salesman Shelley “the Machine” Levene in Charenton Theater Company’s production of Glengarry Glen Ross. To undertake this role, which has been heralded as multi-Oscar winner Jack Lemmon’s finest performance, is a tall challenge indeed. And then to excel is just awesome. Well done, Bernie, part of the reward for those countless hours invested in Little Theatre Society long ago. ... The Atlanta Constitution recently featured Tom and Ellen Ungashick pictured at home by their saltwater pool. Ellen is a master gardener and her gardens have been getting quite a play lately. The Atlanta feature will be followed by a Better Homes and Gardens article in 2005. In addition to raising awesome flora Tom and Ellen have declared a grandkids challenge, reporting seven spread from San Antonio to Atlanta to Boston. ... Not to be outdone in the grandparent sweeps, Russ and Ginny Centanni also report seven grandkids located in Boise and Oregon. They further report that despite hours of practice, they have yet to conquer the golf ball-on-a-tee globe masochistically distributed by Tom and Mary Leahy. ... Can there be a connection between all that violent globe shaking in Boise and the Mount St. Helens activity? Jim Joyce recently hosted Jim Heavey, Bill Smith, and Bill’s brother Burke Smith ’62 to a golf weekend. Seems like a good excuse to share scotch and discuss Tielhard DeChardin’s philosophies of evolution. Sources indicate that Heav opted out of the philosophy portion because he’d heard that “Tielhard was a pansy who had a questionable short game and couldn’t hit long irons.” The abridged version of their report will be in our next issue. Multiple reports regarding the recent hijinks of John Breen: Seems that Reddog was filling time taking a motorcycle instruction course. Final exam found our hero going way too fast, encountering an unexpected obstacle, and punching (oops!) the front brake. Launched over the handlebars, he may have flunked the final, but he was enthusiastically awarded the Evel Knievel Award by his classmates for mega-distance and no whining. Dog reports that the 6-8 weeks recuperating on crutches has given him plenty of time to plan his reprise of Evel’s Snake River Canyon sky cycle effort. Disney and Universal are reportedly vying for franchise rights to create the ride. John and Mary have made many new friends explaining the metal plate and screws in his leg whenever they set off security alarms. ... Ron and Pat Timpanaro delightedly report their first granddaughter, Pippilotti Shea Timpanaro. What a great name. Tippy, who was never competitive, is already busy teaching her martial arts skills and how to hit left handed. ... All of you facing the parade of deadly storms this autumn were in our collective prayers. Received a report from John and Beverly Kovach who thankfully escaped major damage when “Frances” spawned a tornado right down their street in Satellite Beach, FL. They escaped with roof and landscape damage, a pool full of tree limbs, and every result imaginable after no power for a week. John and Bev appreciate the many messages of concern sent their way. Somehow the winter snows up north don’t seem quite so daunting after the 2004 hurricane season. I promised Angus McPhie that any unused space would be filled with Kelley vault material about recycling, rapid climate change, early childhood education, etc. Next time, Gus. ... Happy and prosperous New Year to all, Frank
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summer 2004 |
Another reunion has come and gone. If you missed it, you didn’t get to share the secret of the DaVinci Code – IT’S FICTION! Everything was well organized and the food and events were extremely enjoyable. Special thanks to Tom Leahy for shepherding us thru the weekend’s events, to John Breen for organizing the calling of classmates to ensure that 76 of us showed up, and to the rest of the committee for working so hard to make things work so well for us. ... We also carried on a reunion tradition, known as “the passing of the pen.” This consists of the current class columnist finding a “volunteer” to become the new class columnist for the next 5 years. Frank Kelley, after much cajoling, harassing, and plying with flattery and liquor – and most importantly the urging of “wonder woman” – his wife Joanne, graciously volunteered to assume the duty over the next 5 years – what a wonderful man! ... Since this is my last column, I would like to review a few of the highlights of Reunion 40 weekend and share a few observations and conclusions I drew from the events observed. Thanks to Jim Joyce for providing a special Class of ’64 version of Late Nite Catechism. In addition to being an entertaining lunch, two significant events occurred – someone was finally able to impress on Bob “Bear” Mirguet that he was not to touch sister – EVER! – and Tony and Tish Petricca have been saved – the thought of them kneeling together at the base of their bed with their matching “glow in the dark” rosaries meditating on the passions is inspirational. Combine that with learning at the class dinner on Saturday night that we have a classmate – Tad “Tree” Walters - who can enhance our golden years with Arthur Murray dance lessons and you begin to understand what a wonderful weekend we experienced. ... Unfortunately, I missed the “opening cocktail party” at Leahy’s. Therefore, I cannot personally attest to the “all weather” rolling bar or the “West of the Mississippi” wino-rama – compliments of Russ “Rum Runner” Centanni and his shy retiring wife, Ginny. She really needs to learn how to loosen up and have a good time – maybe Jim Holmes could teach her a couple of those thousand Irish pub songs he knows. Did Jim major in “Irish pub tunes”? ... The tour of the new stadium and seeing Coach John Ray with his Class of ’64 boys made me realize something that had never really occurred to me before. Obviously, there was a tremendous camaraderie among the members of our class that were on those two undefeated football teams of 1962 and 1963. But, I believe those undefeated teams are an important part of the reason that the “Class of ’64” has always been special. Those of us who were not on those teams became the 12th man of those teams and took tremendous pride in what was accomplished. While the rest of us didn’t do it on the field, we were there in the stands – at home and on the road – and were there at 2 a.m. when the team arrived home on the bus from one of their two losses during our 4 years. Ron Timpanaro, sharing how special that made him feel brought this line of thought to mind. It wasn’t the only reason we are special as a class, but it certainly was a catalyst – and seeing Coach Ray and the Men of ’64 together again, and our reaction to them, made that very clear on Saturday. ... Just as we did in 1963, we again chanted “Heav” – “Heav” – “Heav”! This time he wasn’t averaging the “most yards per return” as he did in the old days. Instead, he was baring his head to classmates and his heart and soul to Millie – the love of his life. The “furry little critter” that lived on his head is gone, and the 30-year relationship with his special lady is coming to full bloom. Dear God, these Irishmen move slowly – makes you wonder how he ever avoided those tackles on punt returns years ago. But as my mother told me many times – better late than never. ... Dave Betz is as funny as ever and Tim de Bord is as dramatic as ever and it’s good to know that some things never change. If I had taken more notes and had less fun, I could probably have mentioned the antics of the other 90% of class members who attended – but it was great to see you all. Instead, I will close by thanking all of you for sharing your lives with me, so I could share them with everyone else – and you better do better with Frank, because he told me he knows where all of you live. In closing, I will leave you with an old Jesuit proverb, but you will have to fill in the blanks if you remember it. Life is all about _____! You are either covering it, laughing it off, kicking it, kissing it, busting it, or trying to get a piece of it. Finally, my dear wife Nora says I should mention her in my column – so I am. Thanks for the memories – Jack
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spring 2004 |
Very short column this time -- If you read this and have not made your reservations for Reunion 40 -- you are going to miss a great party. The reunion packets mailed to each of you spell out the fun activities planned. Couple those activities with the ability to pick up where you left off with JCU classmates and you have a winner. ... Don’t be left out -- sign up now and get involved -- who knows how many more of these we will all be able to make. See you at Reunion 40 -- Jack
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winter 2004 |
It may be time to put the class scribe out to pasture. Finally, I’m receiving input, but I can’t remember where I put it. Luckily, my steel trap mind recalls who sent info and some of the facts. For instance, Pete and Evie Kiebort had a visit from Hurricane Isabel in September 2003. She was not a polite guest, as she wiped out their pier and bulkhead. The good news was that nobody was injured, and additional good news was the arrival of Pete and Evie’s first grandchild – Congratulations – and if I could find their Christmas letter I could tell you their grandchild’s name. ... Bill Dix thoroughly enjoyed the dedication of Don Shula Stadium. Bill has worked with high school football for 14 years and has been retired now for 7 years from the Cleveland school system, where he taught Social Studies. Bill and Nancy’s daughter, Jennifer, is now working back in Ohio at both Amhurst Steel High School and Rehabilitation Consultants as a certified athletic trainer. Football (and the treatment of injuries from it and other sports) is a big conversation topic in the Dix household. Nancy had to submit this report, because Bill was too busy doing “retirement things.” ... Denny Marini is only “semi-retired,” but he was able to report that Mike McManus recently visited Denny and Kathy in Ormond Beach and then went home and lost a serious confrontation with his lawn mower. Happily, Mike is out of the hospital and back to work, but you would think someone with a college degree would know better than to get under a lawnmower when it is running. ... Frank Kelley was married since the last column to a lady we all met at the last reunion. If I had my notes or my memory, I could mention her name – “Wonder Woman” is probably appropriate – Congrats! ... Tom and Ellen Ungashick checked in from Atlanta with a rundown on their family. They seem to be strategically placing their sons around the world for interesting visits during their retirement – Atlanta, San Antonio, Boston and Prague – not a bad itinerary. ... Class author, Jim Joyce sent an update, but I lost it. So, I read his book instead – Pucker Factor 10 – memoirs of a US Army helicopter pilot in Viet Nam - and thoroughly enjoyed it. He not only told the story, he made you feel the story. It also made me appreciate the wonderful life I have had – never having had to share my room with rats, never having had to endure the scary war experiences Jim related, and realizing that the closest to a “Pucker 10” experience in my life was the arrival of all 11 grandchildren, under 8, at my house for Thanksgiving. If that is as bad as it gets, I can deal with it! ... Actually, I could have provided many more facts, but then there would not have been any incentive to attend Reunion 40 in June. Rumor has it that Cleveland Ohio, and the JCU campus in particular, will be overrun by a multitude of gray-haired and bald fat men and their beautiful “trophy” wives from the Class of ’64. They will appear quite cultured and genteel, considering the potential blood alcohol levels as the weekend progresses. ... The Reunion committee has formulated preliminary plans and set a goal of at least 80 attendees. When you hear the agenda of special events, I’m certain you won’t want to be left out or be the one who causes us to fall short of this realistic attendance goal. Thursday nite: Weekend “Kickoff Party” at Tom Leahy’s house. Friday lunch: will move to the Shorby Club in Bratenahl. Saturday lunch: Jim Joyce has arranged for a nun to entertain us – she will have at least one ruler and possibly a long wooden pointer. Actually, the nun is a professional entertainer from Late Nite Catechism and will have material to roast us all – should be tasty! Jim will pick up the tab with all the money he makes on his book – so buy a copy soon! Saturday nite: Mass followed by a picture session, cocktails, and dinner are the objective, so none of the old-timers is awake all night because they ate dinner to late. Dinner will feature a deluxe buffet with multiple stations to allow more socializing. The Saturday nite program has not been finalized as yet, but we have never had a bad one. Non-special events: This refers to the time spent between special events in the class tent and around campus with old and new friends, catching up on what has happened since the last time or getting acquainted. Actually, this is what will make Reunion 40 “special.” And last, but not least, some lucky member of the Class of ’64 will have one too many drinks and volunteer to be the “Class of ’64 Scribe” for the next 5 years. ... BOTTOM LINE – REUNION 40 will be memorable and fun as usual. Expect a call from a Reunion Committee member regarding your attendance at this festive event and JUST SAY YES! See you there – Jack
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summer 2003 |
Not a lot to report since my last column. Apparently, the Class of ’64 members are good readers, but the majority of them can’t write. Obviously, Jim Joyce is an exception to that broad sweeping generalization. Jim Joyce’s book - “Pucker Factor 10: A Memoir of an Army Helicopter Pilot in Vietnam" is out, and John Breen is 3/4ths of the way through it and says it is a good read. It tracks Jim from his Southside Chicago home to now. Good stuff! And, if it makes a bunch of money, maybe he'll pop for a beer at the 40th reunion next June. ... Have received info from multiple sources regarding Gus McPhie’s election to the Lorain (Ohio) Sports Hall of Fame for his high school and college heroics. Not surprisingly, none of the info came from Gus. His brother, Bill McPhie, sent me an e-mail telling me about the May 8th induction ceremony and Bill Kerner sent me a nice note with a copy of the May 5th Lorain Journal article chronicling the event. Another honor for a deserving guy. ... No other news of note as of my deadline, but it is now less than a year until our 40th reunion and we should start thinking about doing something special to commemorate the event. Until next time - Jack
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spring 2003 |
I got so much news for the last issue, I was in shock and missed the deadline. Shame on me -- so here are some old and new items I received. ... Former Chicago southsider Jim Joyce has his book -- “Pucker Factor 10” -- in the final stages of publication, due out in spring of ’03. Jim relives his experiences flying helicopters in Viet Nam, with special attention given to his and other pilots day to day lives. Watch for it from McFarland, Inc. -- we might have a best selling author in our midst. ... Jim Corsica reported in from Naples, FL, where he is living after retiring from teaching after 37 years. Jim now has more time to pursue his avocation -- acting. ... Jim has appeared in local productions of classic plays, like “A Streetcar Named Desire,” and played the narrator, Dr. Scott in “The Rocky Horror Show.” He also satisfied his mother’s long standing dream to have a son who was a priest, by playing Father Mark in “Tony & Tina’s Wedding.” We always knew Jim was a “character.” ... Denny Marini reported in from Ormand Beach, FL, where he is semi-retired. He retired as VP of HR from Harris Semiconductor in ’99, but is consulting in the areas of Leadership Development and Merger and Acquisition Integration for companies like Dell Computers and GE. Denny and wife Kathy are enjoying their 8 grandchildren and will celebrate their 40th wedding anniversary in April. I’m no math major, but I think that means they were married before we graduated. ... Al Rutledge reported that he saw in a local paper that Ted Bidigare, Gross Pointe Woods City manager, would be off 6 weeks due to health problems -- hopefully he is back at work when this goes to press. ... George Williams is a candidate for national president of the Reserve Officers Association. The election will be on June 28th in New Orleans. Sounds like George needs an “election advisor” from Chicago to ensure a win. ... Marty Wenzler reported in from Williamsburg, where he and wife Susan have lived for the past 14 years. They get together on a regular basis with Paul Forster and his wife, Karen. Paul is retired Army and a local "mogul" and also volunteers for Habitat for Humanity projects. They also meet regularly with John Kenney ’40 and his wife, Pat, who retired to the area. Between them, they manage to solve all the world's problems over lunch or dinner, but since nobody takes notes, they can’t remember the solutions the next day. Might there be a cocktail or two involved in those problem solving sessions? Marty is still working out of his home importing optics and technical glass from his company in Berlin, Germany. Marty and Susan have 4 grandchildren. Son Paul and daughter Amy are both married and live close by in Richmond. Son Chris is the SID for JCU, and if you haven't seen it, check out the JCU athletic Web site that he helped develop. Go to www.jcu.edu and then to "Athletics". ... And, speaking of Web sites, rumor has it that Ron Timpanaro has volunteered to put together a Class of ’64 Web site, which could make this column obsolete in the future -- I like the idea already. At least it will be a data collection point for 40th reunion info -- and that’s only a little over a year away! As more information becomes available, I will pass it along to you. ... And finally, I end with the ongoing reproductive adventures of the Barrett children. In May, we welcomed grandchild #10 -- Patrick Malia, courtesy of daughter Marjie and husband, Sean, and will have welcomed grandchild #11 by the time this goes to press courtesy of John and Nancy Barrett. I hope they don’t take as long as their parents to figure out that it is not the bowling league that is causing this. Until next time -- Jack
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spring 2002 |
Another deadline approaches as I sit and reflect on all that has occurred since my last report. Many conflicting thoughts and feelings run through my Jesuit-educated mind. On one hand, I am horrified, depressed and angered at and by the savagery of the selfish act of terror perpetrated against us. On the other hand, I am thankful, determined and inspired by our collective reactions to it. On the surface, we have returned to our normal lives, but underneath the surface, something has changed. Everything we once took for granted now has more meaning. Our family, our friends and acquaintances, and the relationships we have with them seem more valuable. Ironically, they aren’t. We are just more aware of their value. Maybe the net effect of this painful wakeup call is just that -- an awakening. We are smarter -- God didn’t have to flood the world this time to get our attention. But, we are also more distracted. We need to get our eye on the ball -- “the real meaning of life” -- and keep it there. If for no other reason than to “not let the terrorists win.” ... Having indulged my Jesuit-induced penchant to philosophize, let’s move to the news. The first item is a request for prayers for Dick and Patty Koenig and their daughter Kristen, who is undergoing treatment for advanced Hodgkin’s lymphoma disease. It is usually curable, and Dick says that Kristen is strong and committed to beating it, but our prayers in support of their ordeal can’t hurt. ... For the past year, Mike Naylon has been the acting executive director of the National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, an agency of the Defense Department. The committee’s mission is to look out for the interests of our Guard and Reserve citizen soldiers. Mike’s latest project culminated in a November 9th ceremony held by President Bush in the East Room of the White House, and carried live on C-Span, proclaiming the week of November 12th as Employer Support of Guard and Reserve Week. Nice work Mike! Just as you said, who would have thought ROTC drill in the JCU parking lot would have lasted this long -- congratulations on 30 years in the US Army Reserve. ... Ron and Pat Timpanaro had a spectacular Christmas in Houston with their first grandchild. Wait until they have 9 -- 7 under 5 years old -- then it becomes a spectacle. They visited family in New Jersey after Christmas and saw the sights of New York City, including a play, but could not bring themselves to visit Ground Zero. ... Speaking of grandchildren, Ed Berleman finally reported the name of his latest grandson, Ethan -- way to go Ed, got it in before his 1st birthday in April. Also, a special thanks to Ed and Cathy for the gift of a photomontage of the JCU campus titled “The Closeness of Carroll.” It contains pictures of all the buildings there in ’64 and many of those built since. ... Bob Runtz proudly reports that he has been selected by the Illinois Track and Cross Country Coaches Association to receive the Dave Pasquini Assistant Coach Award for outstanding service as an assistant coach to the athletes and head coaches in the sports of cross country and track and field. In 22 years of coaching, his cross-country teams have made 10 trips to the state finals and two of his discus throwers finished 2nd in the state. Bob’s head coach says “his dedication, commitment and knowledge have influenced many athletes and it has been an honor to work with Bob.” Bob also wants us to know that he plans to retire in June after 37 years of teaching high school English and expects to spend his free time sharpening up his golf game. Congrats on the award Bob, but forget about getting any more strokes on the course. ... Speaking of golf, John Breen has traded his golf clubs for a boat. With half of your “best days” as a boater behind you (the day you bought the boat), unless of course you contract “footer’s disease” (uncontrollable urge to buy bigger and bigger boats), we all hope you enjoy your latest avocation. To this day, I thank my father for owning a boat and saving me the need to experience it for myself. ... Tony Compisi has joined the staff of Lakeville Motor Express as a corporate account exec. He resides in Fairport, NY. ... As for the rest of you Class of ’64 members, I can only assume you are working hard to scrape out a living in these trying times or playing so hard you don’t have time to take a breath and let us know what you are doing. Until next time, Jack |
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