2012 Viking Legacy... On June 8,2012 Allentown Central Catholic celebrated the graduation of its 83rd class of men and women. The 212 members of the class of 2012 joined the 14,000 Viking Alumni. Members of the class were asked to come early to take part in a legacy photo with their parents and grandparents who are ACCHS Alumni. Viking Fest 2012... On April 21,2012 over 300 Alumni parents and friends gathered in Rockne Hall for our 9th Viking Fest. Over $82,000 was raised to support our technology fund. Save the Date: Viking Fest 2013 ~ April 13, 2013! A Message from the Principal... Dear Fellow CCHS Alumni, What an exciting time for CCHS! As we welcome the Class of 2012 into the ranks of Central Catholic alumni, we celebrate the wonderful year that our students, faculty, staff, and our many benefactors and friends have created at 4th & Chew. We thank God for the many blessings He has bestowed on our school and our students. We have shared memorable moments together in 2011-2012 and are most grateful for the leadership of the Class of 2012 and their true Viking Spirit. Although we are going to miss them in the hallways at Central Catholic, we look forward to their continued support as beloved alumni. We are also going to miss Ms. Linda Davis and Mr. Bernie Takacs who are retiring from CCHS this year. Ms. Davis has served in our health and physical education department for the past 41 years and Mr. Takacs has served at CCHS for 38 years in our mathematics and finance departments, and as our Director of Technology. It is with a heavy heart that I also share with you that Mr. David Listwa and Mrs. Susan McDermott will not be returning to the classroom in the fall due to the budgetary necessity of a reorganization of staff. Even with these instructional changes, please allow me to assure you that the format of our academic and performing arts programs will remain in place and continue moving forward. Central Catholic remains dedicated to offering a variety of academic and artistic outlets for our students and encouraging widespread participation in these important programs. In particular, please know that we are committed to ensuring that all of our instrumental, vocal, and musical theater ensembles will continue to build on their outstanding past successes. We thank Ms. Davis and Mr. Takacs for their 79 combined years of service to Central Catholic and on behalf of our entire Central Catholic family, please allow me to recognize and offer my heartfelt appreciation to Mr. Listwa and Mrs. McDermott for their personal and professional dedication to the students of Allentown Central Catholic High School as well. The many lives they have touched and the ways in which they have shared their love and talents with all of us, most especially our students, will be remembered always. Amidst this time of change, I, too, will be transitioning. I will be stepping down as principal of CCHS at the end of this month. During the past five years, it has been a privilege and a blessing to serve as principal of my alma mater. I believe that God will continue to bless Central Catholic and I am humbled to have played a part in her history. I assure you of my continued support and prayers for CCHS and I ask you to join me in ensuring that our proud Viking traditions continue for the next generation of students. May God continue to shower you with His grace and blessings and may we all remain semper fidelis! Go Vikings! God bless you! Yvonne McCarthy CCHS Class of 1976 Page 2 Principals of Allentown Central Catholic High School... When you hear the word school, one of the first words you think of is principal. At a young age we learn the difference between principle and principal. We are taught that principals are your pals. As we say goodbye to one of our “pals”, let’s take a look back on Central Catholic’s history of principals. Rt. Rev. Leo Gregory Fink (1926-1943) Fink oversaw Allentown Central Catholic High School at its founding in 1926. At this time, the school comprised of only the Masson building, but expanded rapidly. Fink remained an influential leader of the school and community for nearly 20 years, acting as both teacher and principal. During Fink’s tenure at ACCHS, he offered wisdom to the students, “We all pattern our lives after somebody else. Christ is the most perfect model for everyone to follow. Then we should have some secondary constellation whom we imitate.” Msgr. Henry J. Huesman (1943-1953) Huesman arrived at the school in 1933 as Director of Studies, and in 1943 was appointed principal. Huesman directed ACCHS through a period of vast expansion and phenomenal growth. As a testament to this, enrollment increased from about 100 students to 1800 students during his time at the school. Rt. Rev. Msgr. Stephen J. Daday (1953-1965) In 1944, Daday became the Director of Athletics at Allentown Central Catholic. He became principal in 1953. One of his most famous achievements, “Thoughts for the Weekend,” presented students with life lessons and words of wisdom to carry them through the weekend. This earned the Freedoms Foundation Award in 1958. He also helped to more than double the school’s enrollment and was instrumental in the addition of Barry Hall. Rev. Robert M. Forst (1965-1969) Forst resided as principal of the high school beginning in 1965. During his tenure, Bethlehem Catholic High School was established, which resulted in the decrease of student population at ACCHS. Through these difficult times though, Forst brought light by initiating a marching band at the school. This activity grew to involve many students thanks to Forst’ efforts. In addition, many renovations took place under his direction including converting the Little Theater into a Chapel. Rev. James J. F. Stilwell (1969-1974) Stilwell became principal of the school in 1969. He succeeded in uniting the school through mutual trust and cooperation. His firm leadership and ability enabled him to smooth unforeseen tangles in modular scheduling. Principals of Allentown Central Catholic High School Continued... Rev. Thomas J. Birch (1974-1976) Birch began as a teacher at ACCHS, but from 1974 to 1976, he returned as principal. He implemented the system of modular scheduling at the school throughout his term there. In addition, he instituted disciplinary reforms, physical renovations, and special privileges for upperclassmen. Mr. James M. Hodrick (1976-2000) Hodrick served as principal of ACCHS for 24 years and during this time earned the school national distinction. In 1983, 1990, and 1998, Central was named a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence. The school also won several state championships in both football and basketball. Hodrick’s richest legacy was the institution of the Development Program which has established a growing endowment and extended an invitation to the alumni and local community to become more involved in the school. Rev. Frans J. Berkhout (Principal, 2000-2004, President, 2003-2006) Berkhout became principal of ACCHS in 2000 and served as president in later years. Berkhout was a supportive member of the Central community, known for praying for the Viking and Vikette athletic teams before every game and ensuring that each student received the best faith-centered education possible. Mr. Ronald Taylor (2004-2006) Arriving at ACCHS in 2004, Taylor became the first principal at the school to work under the Principal/President model. Though his time at the school was short-lived, he became very well-respected as he dealt with day to day wrinkles in the new model and worked closely with the faculty and administration. Ms. Kathleen Hanlon (2006-2007) Hanlon was the Director of Secondary Education for the Diocese of Allentown. She was appointed interim principal of ACCHS for one year. Mrs. Yvonne McCarthy (2007-2012) In 2007, McCarthy was appointed to the position of Principal after having been the Director of Studies and an integral part of the language department for numerous years. As Principal, McCarthy fostered a sincere concern for each and every student. As a result, she implemented the position of learning specialist to assist students with their academic needs. Her shining personality brought a light to ACCHS as she tackled everyday issues with kindness and gracious determination. Alumni President Message... Dear Friends and Fellow Alumni, On behalf of the CCHS Alumni Association, I would like to thank Mrs. Yvonne McCarthy for her dedicated service to our school and community. We hope her next challenge brings her the happiness and satisfaction which she deserves. This is a pivotal crossroads for the Diocese, the School and the CCHS Alumni. It has been my privilege to serve as President, but at the end of the summer, I will be beginning medical school at the University of South Florida. Unwavering loyalty is evident in the CCHS community and I am confident that the mission of the Alumni Association will be preserved, but the manifestation of this commitment must be adapted to match the evolution of Catholic education. The anticipated changes in the administration of CCHS brings an exciting opportunity for the new leaders of the Alumni Association to explore the full potential of the alumni body. This community must be served and this resource must be engaged through the development of new, mutually beneficial programs such as career services and social activities. I implore the younger members of the CCHS Alumni community (including the class of 2012!) to seek involvement with our present Alumni Association Board members. This passionate group of individuals will guide any new volunteers, and together they can build a stronger institution infused with the inimitable Viking spirit. (Note to younger members: This is a wonderful resume builder and networking tool!) I wish the new leadership of the school and the Alumni Association, the best of luck. Please direct any questions or concerns to me and consult the school's website for further Alumni announcements. Sincerely, Mary Kate Erdman '04 Alumni Association President E-mail: [email protected] Cell: 610-972-4032 Page 3 FYI... Tony Yesenofski ’51, Margie (Stolz) and John Oehmke ’75 enjoyed a get-together in Naples, Florida in January 2012. They had a great time talking about their Central Catholic connection Dr. Albert Yurvati ’73 received the University of North Texas Health Science Center President’s Silver Award for Clinical Excellence. He is currently Professor and Chair of the Department of Surgery at UNTHSC. Tim Sherry ’82 and his wife appeared in the movie “Mighty Macs” released last October. Tim played the bartender, and his wife played a nun. The movie stars Carla Gugino, David Boreanaz and Academy Award Winner Ellen Burstyn. Richard Buckles ’93 was honored by the USO for his 2011 accomplishments as a Marine. A copy of the awards program and photos can be found at libertyuso.org/Gala/. Tim Flannery ’04 is looking for other CCHS alum who have received MBA’s from Harvard, Columbia, Wharton or Stanford GSB. Please contact him at [email protected] Class Reunions... The Class of 1943 will hold its 69th Reunion on Wednesday, October 17, 2012 at the Old Country Buffet, 1245 Whitehall Mall, Whitehall, PA at 11:30 am. For more information, please contact Rosemary Rath at 484-893-6556. The Class of 1962 will hold its 50th class reunion on Saturday, October 6, 2012 at the Iron Lakes Country Club. Please contact Marge (Fabritze) Kovacs, 671 Bethlehem Road, Catasaqua, PA 18032 or 610-264-4755. In Memoriam... Weddings/Engagements... Gerald Seng ‘33 Isabelle S. (Gestel) Derr ‘36 Frank J. Kleinsorge ‘41 Rosemarie E. Buck ‘50 Elizabeth (Betz) Kleinsorge ‘50 John J. Kloiber ‘51 Peter P. Quinn ‘52 Sister Mary Ann Shambo ‘53 Dolores (Szewczuk) Eisenhard ‘55 Marion (Stavinsky) Camaron ‘56 Julius L. Pandl ‘56 Paul Kacsur ‘57 Sally (Malloy) Schmidt ‘57 William Donohue ‘61 Marie Spillane ‘61 Lois A. (Keller) Kelleher ‘62 Gerald W. Wachter ‘63 Frank Kroboth ‘65 Richard J. Thomas ‘65 Alyssa Brady ‘06 was engaged to Greg Lusty with a June 2013 wedding planned. Page 4 Kelly Minner ‘94 married Joe Bickert ‘94 on August 13, 2011 in Hellertown, PA with many Central Catholic alum in attendance. Mailing If you have a change of address, are recently married, or change your status in any way, please contact the Development Office at 610-437-4601 ext. 117 or email us at [email protected]. The post office does not automatically notify us of your changes. Thank you for your help. Alumni Profiles... Robert ’46 and Rose (Grueters) Gilbert ’48 celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary in April 2012. Living in Crown Point, Indiana, they have 5 grown married children and 9 grandchildren. William Dreisbach ’52 served in the Air Force following graduation, working as an aircraft mechanic in South Carolina, Texas and Alaska. After discharge, he worked as an aircraft mechanic for Eastern Airlines and later for Lockheed and served as a volunteer fireman for many years. He currently resides in Fayetteville, GA and would love to hear from any of his classmates. Betty Klein Green ’58 is a member of the Illinois Artisans and has had her hand-made baskets displayed in various shops. She just had her first book published – “A Look at R. Harold Zook’s Unique Architecture.” She lives in Clarendon Hills, IL and served as a Docent for the Chicago Architecture Foundation for 19 years. Dale Sukenik ’64 is retired from PP&L. He and his wife Barbara will celebrate their 40th wedding anniversary this September. They have a married son and two grandchildren. In his spare time, Dale is a professional pocket billiard instructor for the Billiard Congress of America. Jim McCarthy ’73 was recently appointed Vice President of Safety and Compliance for Airgas, Inc. of Radnor, PA. He and his family live in El Dorado Hills, CA. Ralph Jaccodine ’77 has been living in Boston for over 20 years working in the music business. Classmates can visit www.RalphJaccodine.com for additional information. Diane (Dougherty) Ihle ’80 lives in Nicholasville, KY with her husband Laird. She is Director of Product Development for DecoArt in Stanford, KY, and her husband is Director of Environmental Services for Crothall, Inc. in Lexington. They have two grown children. Keli Bedics ’86 was promoted to a full Colonel in the United States Air Force. A 1990 graduate of the University of Notre Dame, she is assigned to the Pentagon where she is chief of the HUMINT, capabilities division. Colin Meagher ’98 is a 2012 graduate of the NYU Stern School of Business, where he earned his MBA with dual concentrations in Finance and Law in Business. Births... Jim Wiltraut ’77 and his wife Karen had a son, Henry James, on December 13, 2011. Andrew Porcino ’89 and his wife Virginia welcomed Dylan James Porcino on March 6, 2012. Michael ‘90 and his wife Kathleen (Scholz) Hauser ’90 welcomed son Anthony on June 15, 2011. Anne (Sodl) Esser ’92 and husband Michael welcomed Sara Marie on July 26, 2010. Erin (Duffy) ’95 and Kenny Eisenhard ’95 welcomed a daughter, Molly Marie, on October 12, 2011. Piper Bridget Cerimele was born on May 30, 2011 to Kelly (McGorry) ’95 and Mike Cerimele ’96. Michael Meagher ’96 and wife Patrice welcomed daughter Mary Louisiana on October 12, 2011. Elizabeth (Shwartz) ’99 and husband Eric Stano ’98 welcomed Natalia Teresa on December 29, 2011. Patricia McFadden ’97 and David Hill welcomed a baby boy named Naven on January 15, 2012. Page 5 4th Annual Central Catholic Football Golf Tournament... Locust Valley Golf Club - Coopersburg, PA July 21, 2012 Format: 4-man scramble Time: Shot-gun start 1:00 p.m. Cost: $90 per person Registration: 11:45 – 12:15 p.m. Includes: Greens Fee and Cart • Hot Dogs after 9 holes • Beverages on course Dinner reception at Locust Valley Pavilion • Souvenir Picture of foursome Prizes for 1st, 2nd, 3rd and last place Money Hole Contests & Prizes: Pot of Gold • Longest Drive • Straightest Drive • Closest to the Pin Putting Contest • Mulligans • Prizes All proceeds will benefit the Central Catholic Football Program Please fill out form below and return it with payment no later than July 2nd. Capt. 1.Name: Phone: Email: 2. Name: Phone: Email: 3. Name: Phone: Email: 4. Name: Phone: Email: q Cash q Check # (Payable to: CCHS FOOTBALL) Mail to: Melisssa Braxmeier, 1206 N. New St., Bethlehem, PA 18018 ***Registration deadline is JULY 2nd in order to guarantee your foursome slot. ***All participants must be pre-registered and paid in full prior to the day of the event. Questions: e-mail – [email protected] or call 610-390-6060 Page 6 Calling All Music Department Alumni From The “Brodt” Years Classes of 1980 to 1982... Do you remember your classmates from the years you were in the marching band, band front or chorus? Most of us considered the other members as family because of the amount of time we all spent with each other from August to May each year. That being said a group of us got together and planned the ANNUAL BAND/BAND FRONT REUNION. The idea took off and now included any alumni from any part of the music program. So if you were part of the music department during the years of 1980 to 1992. You are invited to: 5th Annual Music Department Reunion (Band Parents are welcomed!!) Where: Fullerton Memorial Playground 901 Jefferson St Whitehall, PA 18052 When: August 11, 2012 Noon-? Cost: $12 per adult or $20 per couple (over 21 years old) $ 6 per child (age 13 to 21) $ 4 per child (age 5 to 12) Under 5 is free It is a closed air conditioned building with playground equipment right outside, we will have access to the baseball/softball fields and equipment. There is also a public pool (admission is extra) Tentative Menu: Hamburgers, hotdogs, potato salad, Macaroni Salad. For those who live in the area, or are able bring your favorite dessert to share. Questions: Contact Kathy Kryzan (class of 1984) 610 217-3285 Kelly (Mack) Croslis (class of 1984 610 739-2263 RSVP to Vicki (Brooks) Adams (Class of 1983) 614 Whitehall St. Allentown, PA 18102 Checks can be made payable to Vicki Adams with Band Reunion in memo line I will be attending Number of Adults Number of Children I can’t make it this year bur keep me informed about future Reunions Mailing Info: Name: Address: Phone: Email: Check us out on Facebook Brodt Years Reunion Page 7 CENTRAL CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL 301 North Fourth Street Allentown, PA 18102-3098 NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID Lehigh Valley, PA Permit No. 1375 ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED Save the date! Matthew J. Spade Memorial Golf Tournament Benefits Allentown Central Catholic Scholarships When: Saturday September 8, 2012 Registration begins at 7 AM 8 AM Shotgun Start $95.00 Per Golfer Includes: Golf, Cart, Prizes, Contests, Raffles, Beer, Soda and Lunch Lunch Only at Pavilion $30.00 (At approximately noon) Shepherd Hills Golf Club 1160 S. Krocks Road, Wescosville, PA 18106 Contact: Anne Catino Email: [email protected] or phone 610 928-0560 Visit the website matthewspade.webs.com