Belen Jesuit Magazine | Summer 2013

Belen Jesuit Alumni mAgAzine

MESSAGE FROM THE

ASSOCIATION DIRECTOR

Dear Alumni

Another school year has ended and we are about to embark on a historical academic year as Belen prepares to celebrate 160 years of continuous education. This year, as an alumni association, we have accomplished much in terms of creating opportunity to share, gather and reminisce.

We launched the weekly eNews in the fall, have had six class reunions and had nine monthly luncheons. Additionally, there were two out-of-state gatherings - one in New York and the other in Atlanta. Both were successful due to the initiative of alumni in those areas.

The annual tailgate was a success, the weather was great and we rallied around the Wolverines as they battled Columbus at FIU stadium. We also worked together in providing toys for needy children in downtown Miami by joining forces with Fr. Eddy Alvarez, SJ ’63 at Gesu Church. In the New Year, we teed off and had a very successful golf tournament in memory of Fr. Izquierdo SJ. Then, we got together, had fun, shared stories, ate and drank at the annual Tombola in February. Alumni Day was held in April and although the weather did not cooperate, we still managed to have a great time playing football and basketball. In mid-May, the Alumni Association collaborated with the

Wall of Martyrs committee and took part in the annual ceremony. Finally, we ended the school year by sending off the class of 2013 with their alumni pin. The Alumni Pin Ceremony was attended by over 400 people and was a poignant way to end their senior year.

We would like to continue to improve our communication efforts but in order to be successful we need to hear from you. Please take a moment to review your information on our website, www.belenjesuit. org/alumni and make any necessary updates to your address, phone number and email. Remember to inform us of any life changes, such as marriage or birth announcements, professional accomplishments and death in the family. Stay current and remember to pay your alumni dues, which make this magazine and annual events possible.

All these successes are made possible by your dedication and passion for your alma mater. If you are not involved, get involved. If you are already involved, stay the course. We have so much to offer the current generation of Belen students and they have plenty to learn from us. It is our duty as alumni to provide them with guidance, mentorship and positive role models. Lastly, I join our Alumni Association president, Carlos Batlle in congratulating Carlos Barquin on the 30th anniversary of the Wolverine Summer Camp. His initiative and dedication to Belen is a great model for us all.

Yours Truly,

Mariano Loret De Mola '58 Director of the Belen Alumni Association

belen jesuit

ALUMNI MAGAZINE

Fr. Pedro Suarez, SJ ‘58

Fr. Ernesto Fernandez-Travieso, SJ Vice-President and Editor-in-Chief

Mariano Loret de Mola ‘58

Alumni Association Director

Roberto Borbolla ’56

Alumni Content Editor

Teresa Martinez

Belen Jesuit Director of Communications

Sujayla Collins

Carlos Batlle ’80 – President

Antonio Castro ’86 – Vice President

L. J. Rodriguez ’93 – Treasurer

Jose A. Garrido III ’99 – Secretary

Fr. Juan Manuel Dorta-Duque, SJ ‘40 - Spiritual Director

Antonio Abella ’59

Rober to Colon ’04

Hector Formoso-Murias ’82

Alberto Gutierrez ’88

Peter Montadas ’76

Julio Bertemati ’99

Alvaro Cosculluela ’61

Jose A. Garrido, Jr. ’72

Rene Medina ’05

Crescencio Ruiz ’76

Francisco "Paco" Ruiz ’73

BELEN JESUIT ALUMNI MAGAZINE is published biannually. Circulation: 6,000

Please address all correspondence to the Alumni Office.

Periodicals postage paid at Miami, Fl and additional mailing points.

Postmaster: Send address changes to:

Belen Alumni Office

500 Southwest 127 Avenue Miami, Fl 33184

Phone: 786.621.4674 Fax: 786.621.4662

E-mail: alumni@belenjesuit.org

On the cover: Coach Carlos Barquin opens the doors to the Belen

community

By: Michael Perez ‘14 Vincam Editor

• During the December alumni luncheon, members of the Alumni Association collected money to purchase toys for the children of the Gesu community. The toys were delivered and distributed on Three Kings Day at Gesu.

• Late January, Latin singer Carlos Ponce performed with Marlene Urbay and the Jazz Band. They played to a wide crowd of spectators in the Roca Theater.

• In late February, the school observatory celebrated its 25th anniversary. Alumni gathered with Father Pedro Cartaya, SJ to commemorate the event.

• The Ignatian Center’s production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat was a hit, running for two consecutive weeks in the Roca Theater. It was a performance unlike any other seen on the school’s main stage before.

• Senior Anthony Rueda concluded the second season of the Cultural Series with his piano recital in early March. Rueda, a member of the Jazz Band, showed his talents on the Roca Theater stage as part of the Young Artists Showcase.

• Junior Prom took place April 13th at the Hyatt in Coral Gables. It was a night of food, fun, music, and lots of dancing for the class of 2014.

• The 8th Grade Dance was held May 3rd and it was truly a night to remember. Set up in the school gym, the dance had a Tropical Nights theme.

• Saturday May 4th, the sophomore class and their mothers got together. The annual Mother/Son day started off with a mass in the Roca Theatre and was followed by lunch and dancing.

• The 8th Grade Pin Ceremony was held May 9th. Students received their hardearned pins during a very special mass to commemorate their work and effort.

• Senior Prom was hosted at the Doral Resort and Spa May 17th. It was certainly a night the graduating class will never forget and a great way to bring their final year of high school to a close.

• The graduating class of 2013 received their alumni pins just a few days before graduation. Members of the alumni association handed out the pins, including the fathers of those seniors who were also alumni. Among them High School Assistant Principal Mr. Jose E. Roca who handed the alumni pin to his son Jose Roca, Jr.

NEWS

School Facade gets face lift

By: Devon Roura ‘13 Vincam Editor

This school is an ever-changing place that prides itself on creating an environment that is both beautiful and engaging for its students. Recently the school has undergone some major improvements and aesthetic changes to improve its physical appearance.

The first change that is readily noticeable to all who visit the campus is the newly painted walls. The entire school received a fresh layer of skin to start off the 2012-13 school year. Inside, many of the patios have been completely remodeled, featuring calming elements to create an atmosphere of peace and serenity.

The hand behind some of these projects is Father Jorge Rojas, SJ, a priest who recently arrived in this community. Father Rojas intended to make the patios more visually engaging because he strongly believes that seeing something deteriorated can diminish the mood of a person. By making these spaces fresh and new, he hopes to create within the community a sense of bliss and serenity.

Father Rojas’s most notable renovation is the science patio which students have begun to affectionately call 'little Paris'.The area includes tables with large umbrellas, a functioning fountain, a

beautiful rock garden, and a lamp post.

The central patio is also sporting a face lift that changes in accordance with the religious holidays being celebrated. For Lent the statue of Christ offered a cross cloaked in purple fabric to the community. Father Rojas hopes to continue his beautification into the V-Section patio and the Patio of the Poets in the Ignatian Center.

The athletes are also seeing some improvements as the outmost fields get some well deserved attention. The baseball field is slowly being renovated. New padding has already been installed on the fences, and the fans received a canopy to shade them from the blistering sun and protect them from stray balls.

A new scoreboard has also been added to the field, while a locker room for the players is in the process of development. Architectural plans have already been submitted to the county by Luis Naya, and anonymous donors have offered to fund the shell and interior.

Construction has also started on the new practice fields for the lacrosse and soccer players. The northwest lot is being transformed thanks to the generosity of the Hernandez Family.

"Our Family is eternally grateful

to Belen and the community it has created. In the effort to show our gratitude we would like to help with the addition of the Hernandez Field. We have created the Hernandez Family Foundation with the intention of giving back to organizations making a difference and Belen could not be a better place to start.," said Rudy Hernandez. "Our family, Rodolfo and Mercy Hernandez, parents of Rudy Hernandez class of 93', Danny Hernandez 97', Greg Hernandez 04', and grandparents to current student Adrian Hernandez '17 are all very excited to be a part of the continued growth of Belen."

Once completed, the field will also include a path that will connect to the current cross country course, and 62,000 square feet of green space. The Arazoza brothers have pledged to donate the trees and hedges that will surround the area. Eugenio Cosculluela is helping with the permits and serves as an advisor to the project. Carlos Penin and CAP engineering have donated most of the civil plans. David Garcia and Joey Zumpano have been serving as legal counselors throughout the process. The lot has already been cleared and the project is expected to be completed this summer.

ACADEMIC

GRADUATION AWARDS

Valedictorian

Jose E. Roca. Jr

St. Alberto Hurtado, SJ Communications Arts

Sergio Leos

outstanding Senior of the year

Jose A. Prieto III

Gerard M. Hopkins, SJ English

Jose Rubinos, SJ Modern Languages Andres Manzanares

St. Francis Xavier, SJ Scholar Athlete

Javier A. Martinez

Andrea Pozzo, SJ Humanities

Jake P. Larson

Pierre T. de Chardin, SJ Science

Eric Couto archbishop award

Diego Anell

Christopher Clavius, SJ Mathematics

Andres J. Smith

John Carroll, SJ Social Studies

Jorge A. Orbay

Karl Rahner, SJ Theology

NEWS Where Are They Going

Michael Aguad, Florida International University Honors College

Juan Aguila, University of Notre Dame

George Alfaro, Florida State University

Brandon Almeida, University of Miami

Alejandro Alvarez, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Javier Alvarez, Case Western Reserve

University

Jose Alvarez, Saint John’s University

Roberto Alvarez, Florida State University

Diego Anell, Columbia University

Alfredo Arguelles, Loyola University Chicago

Jose Arosemena, Fordham University

Marcel Arzola, Miami Dade College

Thomas Avallone, The Catholic University of America

Myles Bachrach, University of Missouri

Julian Ballestas, University of Michigan

Evan Banciella, University of West Florida

Nicolas Becerra, The Catholic University of America

Luis Blanco, Emory University

Nicolas Briscoe, University of Alabama

Mateo Buraglia, Bucknell University

Andres Busse, Tallahassee Community College

Stephen Busse, Tallahassee Community College

Maximino Caballero, Loyola University

Chicago

Oscar Cabanas, Fordham University

Patrick Cabrera, The Catholic University of America

Walford Campbell, Williams College

David Capetillo, Miami Dade College

Keonte Cash, Florida A&M University

Carlos Castellanos, Florida State University

Franz-Joseph Castillo, Florida State University

Nicolas Castillo, University of Central Florida

Antonio Casuso, University of Florida

Nicholas Chikuji, Tallahassee Community College

Dominic Chinigo, Oxford College of Emory University

Alvaro Chirinos, Florida International University

Salvador Cisneros, Spring Hill College

Giovanni Companioni, Harvard University

Manuel Corbea, Florida International University

Herzen Cortes, Florida International University

Robert Cosio, Florida State University

Eric Couto, Clemson University

Matthew Cristobal, Santa Fe Community College

Kevin Cruz, Florida International University

Giancarlo Cueto, University of Miami

Eric de Cardenas, North Carolina State University

Roberto De Leon, The Catholic University of America

Matthew Diaz, Florida Gulf Coast University

Eric Diaz-Padron, Florida International University

Alexander Diblasi, Carnegie Mellon University

Carlos Espina, Georgia Institute of Technology

William Fabra, Manhattan College

Gabriel Farias, Florida International University

Carlos Fernandez, Boston College

Michael Fernandez, University of Miami

Nikolas Fernandez, University of Florida

Rene Fernandez, Miami Dade Honors College

Lucas Fernandez-Rocha, Swarthmore College

Andres Garcia, Malone University

Cristian Garcia, Malone University

Nicholas Garcia, University of Florida

Erik Garrigo, Duke University

Gabriel Garrigo, Loyola University New Orleans

Daniel Gomez, Tallahassee Community College

Michael Gomez, Miami Dade College

Daniel Gonzalez, Florida State University

Francisco Gonzalez, New York University, Tisch

School of the Arts

Jesse Gonzalez, Florida State University

Kevin Gonzalez, Marquette University

Manuel Gonzalez, Florida International

University Honors College

Jake Guso, George Washington University

Jason Gutierrez, University of Miami

Thurman Hall, University of Alabama

Pablo Hereter, Florida International University

Kyle Hernandez, Miami Dade Honors College

Daniel Hillman, Florida International University

Xavier Hines, Florida International University

Eduardo Iglesias, University of Florida

Javier Incera, Boston College, Carroll School of Management

Peter Jackson, Florida International University

Daniel Jose, Florida State University Honors Program

Enrique Lam, University of Florida

Luciano Laratelli, University of South Florida

Jake Larson, California Institute of Technology

Nicholas Leonard, Miami Dade College

Sergio Leos, Princeton University

Avery Lopez, Florida State University

Daniel Lopez, Florida International University

Nicholas Lopez, Emory University

Alexander Lorenzo, Loyola University New Orleans

Justin Lorenzo, University of Florida

Juan Lorido, The Catholic University of America

Jonathan Lucas, University of Florida

Bernardo Manrique, Fordham University

Andres Manzanares, Washington University in St. Louis

Christopher Marrero, Florida International University

University

Mario Martinez, Villanova University

Anton Martinez-Cid, Florida State University

Ricardo Martinez-Cid, Duke University

Alberto Maza, Santa Fe Community College

Rafael Melendez, Florida State University

Enrique Menendez, New York University in Shanghai

Diego Mion, Florida International University

Jesus Modino-Diaz, Barry University

Elias Monsalve, Manhattan College

Hugo Montero, University of Miami

Adrian Montoto, Columbia University

Christopher Morales, Florida International University

Justin Morales, Florida State University

Robert Morgado, University of Florida

Javier Mosquera, Pennsylvania State University

Carlos Muniz, University of Florida

Robert Munoz, University of Central Florida

Ryan Murphy, Trinity College

Alberto Naya, Florida International University

Jorge Orbay, Columbia University

Jorge Orta, Florida International University

Hector Ortiz, University of Maryland

Camilo Padron, Marist College

Christian Padron, Florida International University

Alexander Paneda, University of Miami

Jose Paneda, University of Miami

Daniel Parets, Florida International University

Kevin Pavon, University of Miami

Cristian Paz, University of Florida

John Pendas, Florida International University

Honors College

Daniel Perdomo, Loyola University Maryland

Alejandro Perez, Miami Dade College

James Perez, University of Miami

Victor Perez-Abreu, Babson College

Daniel Poo, Florida State University

Miles Pope, Parsons The New School for Design

Felipe Prellezo, The Catholic University of America

Jose Prieto, Columbia University

Patrick Puig-Corve, Florida International University

Guillermo Pujals, Union College

Alfredo Ramirez, University of Florida

Eduardo Ramirez, Florida International University

Edwin Ricardo, Florida International University

Francisco Rios, Tulane University School of Continuing Studies

Erik Rivacoba, University of Alabama

Adrian Rivas, The Catholic University of America

Austin Riveron, Loyola University New Orleans

Anthony Rodriguez, Florida State University

Daniel Rodriguez, University of Florida

Ethan Rodriguez, The Catholic University of America

George Rodriguez, University of Miami

Giovanni Rodriguez, New York University

Kevin Rodriguez, University of Pennsylvania

Steven Rodriguez, Villanova University

Diego Rojo, Villanova University

Alejandro Romero, University of Connecticut

Diego Rosette, Columbia University

Devon Roura, University of Notre Dame

Cornelis Rowaan, University of Miami

Benzo Rudnikas, University of Florida

Innovation Academy

Anthony Rueda, Carnegie Mellon University

Christopher Ruiz, Florida State University

Daniel Saavedra, University of Florida

Jose Saca, Florida International University

Michael Saenz, University of Alabama

Vikram Sairam, University of California in Los

Angeles

Victor Saladin, Florida International University

Nicholas Sanchez, University of Maryland

Christopher Sanu, Saint Joseph’s University

Alejandro Senior, University of Miami, Frost School of Music

Anthony Sierra, Florida State University

Jose Silva, Villanova University

William Singer, University of Miami

Andres Smith, Dartmouth College

Francisco Smith, Bentley University

Christian Suarez, University of Florida

Nicholas Suarez, University of Miami

Fernando Tavara, University of WisconsinMadison

Christian Tello, Woodbury University

Nicholas Torralba, University of Florida

Innovation Academy

Jorge Trelles, Florida International University

Andrew Tremblay, Marquette University

Steven Tyler, Northwestern University

Nicolas Valdes, Loyola University Chicago in Rome

Eduardo Valle, Stony Brook University

Alexander Vazquez, Miami Dade College

Vincent Vazquez, Boston University

Steven Vega, Florida International University

Eduardo Velez, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Alejandro Verdecia, Florida International University

Jaime Vergara, Florida State University

Julian Vidal, Florida International University

Francisco Villafañe, Florida International University

Gabriel Von der Osten, Florida International University

Manuel de Ovin-Berenguer, Miami Dade College

Luis Del Cueto, Pace University

Matthew Marrero, Florida International University

Javier Armando Martinez, Florida

International University

Javier Luis Martinez, Florida International

Dylan Rives, Florida International University

Andres Robledo, American University

Jose Roca, Florida State University

Andres Rodriguez, University of Central Florida

Sebastian Wermuth, United States Air Force Academy

Anthony Yabor, Florida International

University Honors College

James Zamora, Florida State University

ATHLETICS

earning from the egends L L

By: Victor Arrieta ‘95 Athletics

On any given afternoon you may pass by the baseball field and find our school's baseball players gathered around, listening attentively to former Major League baseball legends from Cuba. Baseball legends such as Camilo Pascual, Bert Campaneris and even Hall of Famer Tany Perez recently visited the school and spent some time giving our young players tips to be better athletes, and better people.

The visits were set up by Mr. Orlando Peña who was a former pitcher himself in the majors from 1958 to 1975. In his stellar career, he had a total of 818 strikeouts and a 3.71 ERA. His latest claim to fame, however, is his grandson Eric Labrador, who is currently a seventh grader at our school. Mr. Peña can be seen on campus since his grandson is a runner for both the cross country and the track and field team.

Hall of Famer Tany Perez was the first of the legends to visit the school. Perez was born in Cuba, and he played for the Cincinnati Reds from 1964 to 1976 when it was known as the Big Red Machine, which won two World Series. He also played again for the Reds from 1984 to 1986, for the Montreal Expos (1977 to 1979), the Boston Red Sox (1980-1982) and the Philadelphia Phillies (1983).

During his visit, Perez talked to the students about baseball, and what it takes to make it to the professional level. He explained that there were many difficulties and obstacles along the way. He talked to them about taking the mental approach to overcoming hardships and the requirements behind success. As he put it in his own words, "you have to put the work and effort if you expect to achieve anything."

Former pitcher Camilo Pascual also made a stop to talk to our players. Pascual, who was also born in Cuba, played for Major League Baseball for 18 years for the Washington Senators (which became the Minnesota Twins in 1961), the Cincinnati Reds, Los Angeles

Dodgers, and the Cleveland Indians. Pascual was most famous for his unstoppable curve ball which the media at the time called unreal and labeled it an optical illusion. However, Triple Crown winner Ted Williams once said that Pacual's curve ball was the single hardest curve ball to hit.

Pacual's personal message to the young baseball players emphasized the importance of academics and the role that a good education plays in a person's life. He gave the players pitching tips, but mostly advised them not to try to mimic another player, but instead to develop their own individual style.

Bert Campaneris' visit was very impressive. He arrived fully decked out in his original uniform, in which he still fits. He told the students that he still works out three times a week and tries to stay in good shape. Campaneris emphasized base running and stealing. He actually got in the field and gave the players hands-on lessons. Most impressively, he brought out a book from his playing days that pointed out where each player had to be when a ball was hit to a specific area. Campaneris played for the Oakland Athletics, the Texas Rangers, the Los Angeles Angels and the New York Yankees from 1964 to 1983. Aside from setting base stealing records, Campaneris is known for playing all 9 positions in a single game. Additionally, he was an ambidextrous pitcher during his career.

All the legends who visited are still highly involved with the baseball organizations as scouts or consultants. All three also made it a point to tell the kids how little they made as baseball players throughout their careers in comparison to the salaries of current players. They all explained that it was about enjoying what you do, and not necessarily about the money.

All these students are very fortunate to have been able to gain some knowledge from these trailblazers. I, myself, was humbled by these members of the Cuban royalty of baseball.

NEWS It's all about the

By: Nicholas Iparraguirre ‘14 Vincam Editor

On a cool Friday night, January 18th, 2013, the varsity basketball team made history as the first high school basketball game took place at the Bank United Center, home of the Miami Hurricanes. The man who gave both teams the opportunity to play was none other than Coral Gables Commissioner, and Class of 1998 graduate Frank Quesada.

“ Why should baseball have all of the fun? We wanted to give the basketball team an opportunity to play in a nicer arena than FIU," said Quesada.

Quesada received help from school parent Steve Marin, whose son is currently a freshman at the school, and Columbus graduate Jose Más, the CEO of the engineering company MasTec. To get the process started, Quesada called another Belen Alum, Sergio Gonzalez '81, who is Vice President of University Advancement and External Affairs. When Quesada asked Gonzalez about the possibility of playing the game at the Bank United, he was directed to Global Spectrum, where negotiations began to bring the price down to a reasonable number. The initial price was still a little too expensive, but the idea of selling the courtside seats for $50 a piece came to fruition.

“I t was amazing, every single court side seat sold in less than an hour, and at $50 a seat, the extra revenue allowed us to complete our financial obligation to Global Spectrum,” said

Quesada.

Just as a token of the history that the Belen / Columbus basketball made, Global Spectrum is currently in the process of framing a picture of both teams, and posting it somewhere around the stadium. Here, the basketball teams will join some of the most prolific events to have ever been hosted by the Bank United such as the Latin Grammys.

"I am thrilled that we could host this very important event for the community on the University of Miami campus. As a proud Belen alumnus (1981) and parent of an alumnus (Andres Gonzalez, 2011), I very much appreciate the importance of this game and the tradition to both schools and the community,” said Gonzalez.

For Wolverine fans, the game was a true heartbreaker, with Columbus hitting a three pointer in the closing seconds to take the game 54-57. However, in the grand scheme of things, it was still a historic day for not only the school athletics, but also high school athletics as a whole. The wolverines put up a good fight and dominated the first half while maintaining control throughout the entire game. Spectacular plays were made by Javi Alvarez '13 and Willy Pujals '13.

“ The contract we signed was for three years, so the game being played at the Bank United has a chance to be a tradition in the rivalry of Belen versus Columbus,” said Quesada.

TOMBOLA 2013

Tombola was held the last weekend in February this year. Alumni, students, parents, faculty, staff and even visiting neighbors attended this annual event to raise funds for scholarships. Thanks to the generosity of all attendees, over $500,000 was raised for the scholarship fund.

BASEBALL BASH

The annual Baseball Bash, held January 6th, was a great success as alumni spanning seven decades came out for the softball game and cookout. The current Varsity and JV teams were on hand to meet the alumni and enjoyed listening to stories of the past as well as witnessing them compete in the home-run hitting contest. The event was organized by current players' parents as well as the Belen Alumni office. A special thanks to Mrs. Mary Lorenzo who served as the photographer for the event.

MAGIS

M.D. An D.R. in the

Every summer, high school students from Belen embark on a very special trip to the Dominican Republic known as the Youth Missions. These missions aim to aid the less fortunate communities in this country through construction work as well as by providing medical aid.

Dr. Donato Arguelles, alumnus from the class of 1973, has participated in the missions since 2006, when he joined Medical Students in Action (MSA), an organization dedicated to providing proper medical assistance to the Dominican Republic year round.

Since then, Dr. Arguelles has participated in seven missions, working pro bono for every single one of them. He gladly pays for his own personal expenses and spends much of the year fundraising with the other members of the MSA in order to help obtain the needed materials, and pay for the hired Dominican medical personnel necessary during the trip.

“What brings me back yearly are the people we serve. Over many years, we have been able to develop very close personal

By: Michael Perez ‘14 Vincam Editor

relationships that foster trust and love in these humble Dominicans. We enjoy their company, and they need our care,” said Dr. Arguelles. The medical mission services communities that are very different from those in Miami. Here, people have direct access to a vast number of doctors who specialize in every kind of medical field out there. In the Dominican Republic, however, this kind of treatment is only available in the big cities that are miles away from the mountain villages where these people live.

Arguelles’s efforts in the summer, with the help of other members of the MSA and many students who volunteer, provide medication and treatment that these people otherwise would not be able to receive. All medical equipment and medications used on the trip are received through donations to the MSA from individuals, small private companies, and larger business organizations. These medical trips have not gone on without numerous challenges throughout the years. For example, in 2007, Arguelles and a group of about 50 others were held hostage at gunpoint in the

City of Palenque for an entire night during a political standoff against a corporation pumping skin rash-inducing soda ash into the air. The group was evacuated by the military the next day after a gun battle.

In 2008, all the medications for the mission were lost by the airline, causing a crisis and preventing the clinics from providing needed treatment and forcing them to acquire the necessary supplies through alternative means.

Just last year in the 2012 mission, all medications and supplies were held up by the Customs Department in the Dominican Republic. In fact, at one point, the authorities even asked Arguelles and his associates, for a donation of 50% of all supplies, despite the fact that all of the supplies were already going to be used for charitable purposes. The night before the start of the mission, customs finally approved and gave up their hold.

“It is difficult sometimes in the DR and establishing relations with ever-changing public health officials is an immediate need, ” remarked Dr. Arguelles.

But despite all the challenges and ordeals, Arguelles still returns every year, and always willing to do more. He has seen many things in these trips, and met people who have made a tremendous impact in his personal and professional life.

He will never forget Annerys de Leon, who was an underdeveloped six-year old girl who had a heart condition known as Tetrology of Fallot. This condition causes blood flow through the heart to be misdirected, leading to lack of the oxygenation of the blood, and ultimately causing all other organs to fail.

After extensive medical evaluation in the middle of a village in

an examination room constructed of sheets hanging on ropes and a single mattress, plans for her medication and surgery were made. Now, thanks to Dr. Arguelles and his team of volunteers, Annerys is a thriving twelve-year old in the island.

“Her beautiful smile and warm embrace that I seek yearly brings all the motivation to return for many more,” commented Dr. Arguelles.

Dr. Arguelles serves as a true exemplar of the Magis. He is the perfect example of what it means to do more; giving your all without expecting anything in return.

“My career is in many ways similar to the calling of the priesthood. How often in life can you share someone’s most sacred beliefs, fears, and difficulties? It is easy to overlook how intimate the relationship of a doctor and his patient is. The trust and the love is essential to the success of that mission,” said Dr. Arguelles.

Arguelles is thankful for the opportunity that he has to serve every year; especially with the high school from which he graduated.

“Life has taught me many things, but most importantly, to understand the true virtue of the act of giving. It is only in giving, that one can truly receive," said Dr. Arguelles.

BYE BIRDIE

BYOn January 25th, 2013, the Father Izquierdo Memorial Golf Tournament was a complete success, attracting 144 players to Melreese Golf Course for the good cause of raising funds for Belen’s Scholarship Fund. Special thanks are due to the alumni and the parents who participated and to Alberto (Tico) Gutierrez ’88, Mariano Loret de Mola ‘58, Rick Raimundez ’90, Jorge Iglesias, Jerry Portela, Yvonne Von der Osten, Teresa Martinez, and Miguel Tomasino for their diligent work to make this a splendid Belen event.

On this second annual Alumni Day, held April 13th, we had the participation of different classes ranging from the 1940's to the 2000's. We hope this event will grow to be our annual celebration in which we enjoy a day of sharing fun moments with friends and family.

The early mass in the Belen Chapel was the beginning of the activities that included football, basketball and dominoes, and concluded with a gathering around the cafeteria patio to enjoy a few beers and refreshments with a nice lunch.

To view more photos of these events, visit the Belen Alumni Homepage at: htttp://www.belenjesuit.org/alumni A L U M N I D AY

10 QUESTIONS FOR 1 ALUMNUS

By: Brandon Almeida ‘13 Vincam Editor

Arturo Martinez ‘10

is currently playing as a defensive end for Notre Dame University. After a tough battle against Hodgkin's Lymphoma which was diagnosed when he was just a freshman in high school, this no-nonsense athlete is proving time and time again that there are very few things a human being cannot accomplish when he puts his mind and heart into it. Now a student in one of the nation's top universities, this real life hero understands the true meaning of perseverance.

Q. What are some of the memories from Belen that you'll never forget?

"I will never forget when our senior class showed up to the Key West basketball game to cheer for us in flippers, snorkels and masks. Also, the standing ovations I received by students when I would show up to school after a few long days of chemo is a memory I will never forget. The other memory I will have forever is the football game which we won to qualify for the state championship. I was playing tight end during the last plays in the game; those in which we needed a couple of first downs to close it out. It was such a beautiful feeling when we finally won after sacrificing all that we had on the field."

Q. How would you describe yourself as a student while you were in this school?

"I would say that I was somebody who was good friends with some of the studious kids and good friends with some of the athletes at the same time. I worked hard, but also played hard with regard to having fun. In my opinion it was always important to be balanced and study hard, but at the same time remember how important it is to enjoy yourself."

Q. What is the most important thing you learned during your struggle against cancer?

"I have learned essentially not to take your physical capabilities for granted. For a time, I was one of those kids who couldn’t accomplish his dreams because simply put, I didn’t have the energy. There are children, adults, all sorts of people who cannot do what they want to do not by choice, but because they were placed in a situation in which they had no control over. To sit there with our wonderful lives God has given us and not do anything with it is ridiculous in my opinion. I have learned to have a 'no excuse' mentality and to work as hard as I can when trying to accomplish goals I put forth."

Q. Who are some of the people at school who made an impact in your life?

"I will never forget Mr. De Quesada because he has believed in me since seventh grade when I was on the junior high basketball team coached by him. I was so quiet that he had me visit his classroom Monday mornings and report to him about my weekend just so we would have a dialogue. He always told me I was going to do great things with my life. Also, Father Willie was the reason why I even looked into Notre Dame because he told me that it was his dream school. The most specific thing I will remember that he taught me was how selfish of an act being late to an event is and that has helped me to arrive on time to things like football workouts etc. Coach Stuart is a man of principle who stays true to his values. If we were unsportsman-like in any way or disrespectful in school he would have us run numerous sprints and complete different painful exercises; something valuable that not all coaches do. Mr. Maza along with Mr. Castillo are just so caring and loving to

their students that it has humbled me as a person. These adults respect and care about the opinion of us young punks and it really would make me not want to let them down."

Q. What gave you the motivation to continue to play sports considering the circumstances?

"Well, I couldn’t just sit there and feel sorry for myself all my life. Also, I figured here is my chance to be a role model to others struggling through it after me. There’s a quote I like that reads, 'Nobody asks to be a hero; it just sometimes turns out that way.' I was given, in my opinion, the responsibility to be a role model because of my second chance and I have taken it upon myself to be an example of somebody who fought a major adversity. I look at it as a duty —as a responsibility to be the best I can be."

Q. What are some important values that you learned here at Belen?

"Belen has taught me to always do things for the greater glory of God. I always make an effort to remind myself that I wouldn’t be here today if it wasn’t for the Lord. There would be no football, nor Notre Dame, no survival if God was not there for me. I have tried to use all of my accomplishments as an example to others of how faith can work wonders. Also, I have learned the importance of balance: academics isn’t all there is to life although it is important. I have been taught to be involved with sports, clubs, your family, or your hobbies. Outside of school is when you learn the intangibles that help complement the studying completed in the classroom. "

Q. Given your unique experience, what do you think about when you wake up every day?

"I wake up every morning with a no-excuse mentality. If I don’t work that hard in a particular day or give little effort I look at myself and say, 'Are you kidding me?' It is just a lifestyle; it is in my DNA now and something that will never leave me. I always have strived for something better even when I feel as though I have achieved what I set out to accomplish."

Q. You were able to play in championship games at both the high school and collegiate level. How do those experiences differ and what have they taught you?

"They differ of course in the magnitude and size of the game. I mean the gifts, clothes, shoes, hotel room, autographs, and all that came with playing in a college national championship game were indescribable. However, I enjoyed the high school state championship game more because our Belen football coaches care about our growth as individuals. You want to play well because you know Coach Stuart has sacrificed so much for us and is really putting his heart into our team. In my opinion, at Belen the coaches provide more of a caring, family atmosphere that you typically do not encounter in college football."

Q. What advice would you give to someone going through a similar medical situation?

"I would say that things happen and there’s nothing we can do about it. You might as well make the best of it and not bring down those around you, especially your family who are suffering more than you are. Also, the attitude you have once you get out of there is like a leg up in life! It guarantees that you will have more fun than most people and the toughest battles. I thank God sometimes for cancer believe it or not."

Q. Where do you see yourself 20 years from now?

"To be honest, my goal is to be a good husband and good father. I would like to provide for my family, but not get so caught up with my job that my family relationships suffer. I want to enjoy what I do and be able to say I have always been there for my family. Ideally, I will be living in Miami and working in an accounting firm, but we shall see how everything plays out. "

Class Notes

Omelio Sosa celebrated his 100th birthday. He graduated as a lawyer from Universidad de la Habana in 1943 and obtained a Masters of Science degree from Indiana State University in 1965 when he was 53 years old.

Salvador Juncadella was recently recognized by the InterAmerican Bar Association, for his years of service, at an event in his honor.

Fernando Garcia-Chacon, President of the Cuban Association of the Order of Malta, was recognized with the Bailiff Knights Grand Cross of Honor and Devotion at a ceremony in Rome, Italy.

Fr. Eduardo Barrios, SJ received the “Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice” Cross, the highest honor accorded by the Vatican. He is a parochial vicar at Gesu Catholic Church in Miami.

Thais and Xavier Sainz, Adys and Martin Rodriguez, Rosalie and Norberto Martinez, and Daisy and Guillermo Asper with friends in Los Angeles, CA.

Classmates celebrated Christmas at Carlos Allen’s home.

Javier Perez-Abreu has been chosen by his peers as one of the Florida Legal Elite for 2013 and will be recognized in the Florida Trend Magazine’s July 2013 issue.

Frank Mora has been named Director of the Latin American and Caribbean Center at Florida International University.

Jose (Joe) Garcia is the first Belen Alumnus to be elected to the U.S. House of Representatives serving Florida District 26.

Jose Cil is the President of Burger King in Europe, Middle East and Africa.

Carlos Trujillo was re-elected as State Representative for Florida District 105.

'03 '01 '94 '90

Fernando Alvarez, Joe Zumpano, Ron Garcia-Vidal, Jorge Dominguez, Fr. Willie Garcia-Tuñon SJ, Henry Landa, Henry Gomez and Jose Gonzalez at the top of Citadelle Laferriere in Milot, Haiti.

Alex Zequeira, President of the Nativity School of Worcester, held an event at the Princeton Club in New York to spread the word about the School. Pictured here with Kristian Sedeño ’03. Zequeira was also named to the United Way of Central Massachussetts Board of Editors in May.

Javier Gonzalez and his son Matthew, and Art Martinez ’10 participated in the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life at Baptist Hospital in Miami. Art and Matthew are cancer survivors.

Thomas de Quesada, Belen Dean of Students, received in 2012 the Rotary Club of Miami-Granada’s annual award for Community Service, and the Nova Southeastern University’s “Cervantes Outstanding Educator” Award.

Felipe Tudela completed his Obstetrics and Gynecology residency at Jackson Memorial Hospital Miller School of Medicine.

Felice Gorordo has been named vice-president of business development at iClearpath.

Santiago Tefel received the 2012 Young Leader of the Year Award from the Nashville’s Young Leaders Council.

Rick Moreno and Derek Varona have partnered to create a new Real Estate company, Sea Grove Realty.

Daniel C. Lopez has joined the Law Office of Frank Perez-Siam as a Senior Associate.

Nicco Quiñones’ film, “Breaking”, was one of the largest-scale junior productions at NYU.

David Busse has been elected to the Delta Chapter of Phi Beta Kappa at Georgetown University.

Art Martinez visits the alumni office before participating in the BCS Title Game in Miami. Pictured here with Emilio Martinez ’54, Carlos Balerdi ’54, Mariano Loret de Mola ’58 and Roberto Borbolla ’56.

Brandon Eisaman was elected Senate President at Florida State University.

of ’56

the

of their

Sergio ’10 and Diego Fernandez-Soto hosted a Belen Alumni basketball tournament. Pictured: Charlie Melendez, Carlos Diaz, Alfonso Aguila, Ricky Sanz, Patch Rios, Christian Dominguez, Rudy Villanueva, David Iparraguirre, Brandon Fernandez, Michael Pascual, Richie Massa, Diego Fernandez-Soto, Max Echarte, Sergio FernandezSoto, Andres Pumariega, Alex Iparraguirre, and Ray Mouriz.

Alumni from ’01 to ’12 participated in this year’s football tournament in Belen. Thanks to Athletic Director Carlos Barquin and Coaches Richard Stuart and Eddy Delgado ’91.

Frank C. Quesada ’98, Walter Lista ’91, Carlos ’72 and Eduardo M. PerezHeydrich ’75, Jorge Alvarez ’12, Eddie F. Perez-Heydrich 10, Fr. Pedro Cartaya ’54, Joel Cabrera ’98, Carlos A. Perez-Heydrich ’15, Eric and Michael Castellanos ’14 get together for Christmas.

Alumni gathered in New York City for a happy hour organized by Xavier Navarro and Kristian Sedeño ’03.

Alumni attending a retreat with Fr. Ernesto FernandezTravieso SJ in Casa Manresa on November 15 to 18, 2012.

MAKING MEMORIES

You know that the summer has officially begun when counselors and campers are dropped off near the school entrance in shorts and flip flops to begin the best seven weeks of their lives. This summer, the camp will open its doors for the 30th consecutive year, marking a major milestone filled with happy campers and nostalgic, fond memories of past summers.

By: Jose Antonio Prieto ‘13 Vincam Editor

In 1984, Physical Education teacher and coach Carlos Barquin (Barq, as he’s known to most every student and teacher at the school) was promoted to Athletic Director of the school. Soon afterward, he approached the president and principal of the school because he had an idea to relieve the school of the financial burden of the athletic program. His idea was to bring in a summer camp.

Barq already had experience running a summer camp at the YMCA when he first began at the school. After a few years as a senior counselor there, the YMCA promoted him to camp director. Later, the Big 5 Club heard about him and offered him a position also as camp director. He was there for several summers, running a camp for the club members and their children and grandchildren. Ms. Miriam CamboMartinez, who currently runs the testing program at the school, was his assistant director at the time it all started.

Barq wanted to start a camp that could employ students, fund the athletic program, and serve the community. The camp would also provide much-needed funds to the school while it was closed in the summer. The president and principal were all for it, and after Barq proposed a

formal plan, the summer camp began.

Their goal for the first year was 350 campers, who would have a few dozen students and adults looking after them. That year, over 500 campers registered. This presented a challenge for the fledgling camp. Barq had planned to teach the campers how to swim –and a pool is always an asset in South Florida in the summer –but because the school pool had not been built yet, he had no way to do so. He decided to bus campers out to Tamiami Pool, and drove the bus himself because the staff didn’t have anyone else. The camp also got a large above-ground pool for the smaller children.

“ The field trips the first few years were adventures,” said Coach Barquin. “We had to improvise, and balance organization with fun.”

Barq’s son, Carlos '90, cooked for the field trips those first few years. Sometimes, he would have to pick up burgers from Burger King or McDonald’s. Other times, he would actually prepare the meals on location. The problem was that he was sometimes late, so when noon, the usual lunch time, rolled around, the food was only just beginning to cook. Barq would get angry at his son because he was hungry, and he was sure the others were in the same boat.

Camp

Memories

Number of campers that attended the first year. Over 1,100 campers attended last year.

240

500

Number of balls used in camp every year. About 15% of them are missing by the end of the summer.

Number of counselors who worked the first year. Today, over 250 counselors are hired.

24

$454

Cost of camp the first year. Today seven weeks of all inclusive fun costs $1,000.

15,000

Approximate number of kids who have learned to swim in the Belen Summer Camp over the past 30 years.

Coach Barquin was reluctant to share some of his old stories so as not to give future counselors any ideas. This is especially true for the overnight camps. He began overnight camps as a way to give campers and counselors a chance to experience a night away from home. He soon found out that this event made the counselors harder to take care of than the campers. The teenagers began to pull pranks on each other and on the campers. These pranks have since become an unforgettable tradition in the camp.

Another tradition that began early on was the end-of-camp show. It began as a “King and Queen” competition of the summer camp. The counselors would pair up into couples and everyone would vote which one was their favorite. This soon evolved into groups that put on a dance number and showcase their talents on a stage. Some of Coach Barquin’s funniest memories come from these shows, where groups of sometimes 60 boys performed the most ridiculous dances. One counselor, whose performance can be found on YouTube, parodied Coach Barquin himself with great success.

One very important detail about the camp is that Coach Barquin's entire family (pictured below) has always been a part of it, one way or another. His children and grandchildren have either worked at the camp or attended. Even after all these years, they are still a part of the summer tradition.

After the pool and gym came along, the summer camp was able to grow. Today approximately 1100 campers attend each session. Over 1600 campers register every year, and 90 percent stay for all seven weeks. The staff has grown from a few dozen to around two hundred and fifty counselors-in-training, junior, and senior counselors. Some of the campers come back to be counselors as soon as they turn 15. Even though the camp has grown exponentially, Coach Barquin still needs to bus out one-fifth of the camp on all-day field trips. Much of the equipment (soccer balls and basketballs, etc.) that is used for the camp is also used for the school’s PE classes and sport activities.

Students from both the school and other local schools are employed in the summer camp. Each student is interviewed individually by the camp staff.

“Our students have priority, of course,” said Coach Barquin. “But there are still some we turn away. We even get parents who offer to pay so that we hire their sons.’”

Despite the fact that the jobs do not pay very much, the summer camp is one of the few places that employs students starting at fifteen, and parents often push their children to enroll because it’s great job training and there’s responsible supervision.

Bryan Lorenzo and Lourdes Vega are also major contributors to the success of the camp. Together, these four people (pictured below) have dedicated a combined total of 77 years to the summer camp.

Financial responsibility was not the only reason Coach Barquin began the summer camp.

“As a parent,” he admitted, “I always felt guilty that I couldn’t give more time to my children and grandchildren. The summer camp has given me time to spend with them when they’re campers and even when they come back as counselors.”

Even his son, who according to Coach Barquin, doesn’t like sports, was able to help cook for the campers. His daughter still works as a counselor, and he spends time with his grandchildren every summer when they come as campers.

Counselors-in-training start at fifteen, and the next year they can come back as junior counselors. Senior counselors, from eighteen to twenty-one, are often young people who were junior counselors studying in Miami.

Faculty members from the school such as Mr. Jose E. Roca and Ms. Miriam Cambo-Martinez, also help out with the camp. Other members of the school community such as

Coach Barquin also wanted to start the camp to serve the community, and his experience as a Pedro Pan child was what inspired him to do so.

“As a kid, living with other guys whose parents weren’t around, I noticed that the guys who stayed out of trouble were the ones who always had something to do. The summer camp is my way of giving back to those people who kept me busy when I was a kid,” said Coach Barquin.

For the past 30 years, the summer camp has taught thousands of kids how to swim, and kept them out of trouble. Hundreds of counselors have learned how to conduct themselves in a job interview, and the responsibility of taking care of others. Generation after generation can still agree that the best memories of summer, were made right here, at the Belen Summer Camp.

GALLERY OF REUNIONS

GALLERY OF REUNIONS

GALLERY OF REUNIONS 2002

Vocation to Family Vocation to Marriage announcements

• Steven Giralt ’96 and Gabriela Ponce

• Michael Mena ’98 and Lisa Marie Reina

• Nicolas Patiño ’00 and Jessica Martin

• Jorge Muñoz-Bustamante ’00 and Mairi Garcia

• Ronald Garcia-Vidal ‘87 and Laura Delaurentis

• Nicolas Calzada ‘98 and Veronica Granata

• Oscar A. Gomez ’01 and Krystal Pollman

• Justin Metcalfe ’04 and Christi Falco

• David MacNamara ’04 and Luciana Gomez

• Richard Laviña ’05 and Vanessa Alvarez

• Raul Montenegro ’00 and Carolina Cueto

• James Fenton ’06 and Karina Alexandra Leiva

• Reinaldo Ramos ’58 and wife Gloria celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with a mass in the Belen Chapel.

• Charlie Pringle Fuentevilla, great-grandson of Marlene and Ramon Fuentevilla ‘58

• Antonio Suarez, born to Lizette and Antonio Suarez ‘89

• Julio Florin, born to Tere and Hector Florin ‘95

• Raquel Paulina Rodriguez, born to Paola and Raul Rodriguez ‘97

• Jose A. Garrido IV, born to Olga and Jose A. Garrido III ’99, grandson of Jose A. Garrido Jr. ’72, great-grandson of Jose A. Garrido Sr. ’46 and of Luis Botifoll ’25

• Carlos Rafael Andion, born to Danielle and Jose Andion ‘00

• Jayden Alexander Cruz, born to Kristen and Javier Cruz ‘04

• Joseph Henry Olozaga, grandson of Silvia and Jose Olozaga ‘46

• Alejandra V. Borbolla, born to Kirenia and Daniel Borbolla ’94 and granddaughter of Javier Borbolla ‘66

• Daniel Sepulveda, born to Diana and Jose Sepulveda ‘91

• Max Thomas Mauri, born to Michelle and Tommy Mauri ‘92

• Guillermo Alberto Aguayo, born to Alexandra and Jose Antonio Aguayo ‘00

• David G. Gorordo, born to Bianca and Felice Gorordo ’01

• Nicholas Mateo Lopez, grandson of Joaquin Ruhi ‘73

• Oliver Robert Murray, grandson of Antonio Ricol ‘73

• Porter William and Paolo Jorge Albury-Andino, grandsons of Jorge Andino ‘59

• Niberto Andres Moreno, born to Lilimary and Niberto Moreno ‘96

• Andres Jose Benitez, grandson of Gaston Comas ‘75

• Andrew Gerald del Amo, born to Giselle and Gerald del Amo ’99

announcements

In Memoriam

In loving memory of our alumni friends

• Lorenzo A. Lamadrid ‘40

• Guillermo Rodriguez-Morini ‘42

• Agustin De Goytisolo ‘44

• Dario Rojo-Calderin ‘45

• Manuel Gutierrez Cardenas ’46 in St. Croix, V.I.

• Armando Diego ’47 in Houston

• Antonio Lopez ‘48

• Fermin Balerdi ‘49

• Jose Miguel Alonso Soler ’50 in La Habana

• Mario Alfonso Tagle ’50

• Manuel Delgado ‘54

• Adolfo Abascal ‘59

• Francisco Gonzalez-Aruca ‘59

• Jose Ignacio Abalia ‘60

• Jorge Barinaga ‘60

• Pedro Pertierra ‘61

• Humberto Ravelo ‘64

• Eugenio Ferreiro ‘68

• Jeff Bryn ‘75

• Angelo Longo ‘86

• William Rodriguez ‘92

• Dr. Humberto Ravelo, Dolores

• Jaime L. Parlade, Dolores

In Memoriam

Family and friends

• Braulio Baez, father of Braulio Baez ‘82

• Jose Caragol Jr., son of Jose Caragol ‘49

• Rafael Carmona, father of Ricardo Carmona ‘92

• Maria Luisa Dorta-Duque, wife of Jorge DortaDuque ‘51

• Thomas Eisaman, father of Brandon Eisaman ‘10

• David Flor Sr., father of David Flor ‘89

• Antonia Ledesma, aunt of Belen Counselor Rafael Ledesma

• Carlos Martinez, grandfather of Javier Martinez ’13 and father of Belen Teacher Jorge Martinez

• Conchita Miñagorri, mother of Miguel Miñagorri ‘73

• Greg Myer, brother of Belen Science Teacher Sean Myer

• Johnathon Perez, son of Miguel A. Perez ‘87

• Lucy Pichardo, grandmother of Rene Negron ’12 and mother of Belen Office Manager of College Counseling Cristina Negron

• Emilio Roca, father of Belen Assistant Principal Jose Roca ‘84

• Jorge M. Rodriguez, father of Jorge J. Rodriguez ‘92

• Rosa Roza, mother of Francisco Roza ’54 (deceased) and Jose Roza ‘68

• Jose Ramon San Jorge, father of Andres San Jorge ‘63

• Berta Sosa Zamora, mother of Pablo Perez-Zamora ‘59

• Aida Sowers, mother of Jorge Sowers ‘62

• Armando Valdes, grandfather of Alexander ’08 and Nicolas Valdes ‘13

• Rafael Sanchez, father-in law of Aristides Abril ’90 and uncle of Andres Sanchez ‘12

• Margarita Nuñez, mother of Belen professor Leo Nuñez

• Ana Toledo, mother of Belen professor Guillermo Fernandez-Toledo

• Ondina Fidalgo, mother of Edward M. Fidalgo ‘82

• Ariel Remos, father of Ariel '76 and Alejandro '77 Remos.

• Sister Lourdes Suarez, Ursuline nun, sister of George Suarez-Gaston '56

Meet the New Alumni Board

From left to right: (Standing) Jose A. Garrido, III ’99, Jose A. Garrido, Jr. ’72, Carlos A. Batlle ’80, Antonio Abella ’59, Alvaro Cosculluela ’61, Antonio Castro ’86, Francisco “Paco” Ruiz ’73. (Sitting) Mariano Loret de Mola, ’58, Roberto Colon ’04, L.J. Rodriguez ’93, Crescencio Ruiz ’76, and Rene Medina ’05. (Not Pictured – Julio Bertemati ’99, Hector Formoso-Murias ’82, Alberto Gutierrez ’88 , and Peter Montadas ’76.

RETRACTION

The pictures below did not appear or were misidentified in the printed version of the 2012 winter edition of the Alumni Magazine. We apologize for this error.

OF THE SCHOOL PRESIDENT

Dear Alumni,

Two weeks before the celebration of Easter, we, along with countless millions around the world, watched and waited for the announcement of a new pope. On March 13, the school had early dismissal but as the last bell rang, white smoke emerged from the Sistine Chapel signaling that the announcement was moments away. I joined students and members of the faculty in a classroom and we watched the presentation of Pope Francis live on television.

I have no doubt that as alumni you shared the same sentiment that I felt when I realized who had been elected the new successor of St. Peter. A great sense of pride, joy and yes surprised! Since the moment he was introduced to the world, Pope Francis has been a wonderful example of humility, strength and faith. He has been accessible to the people and has already shown us that his papacy will be unique. His core principles as a Jesuit have exemplified the teachings of Ignatius and put the Society of Jesus at the forefront of everyone’s mind.

When Pope Francis appeared on the balcony, overlooking the people gathered at St. Peter’s square on the night he was elected, he bowed and asked the people to bless him. In that moment he became a symbol of the humility and willingness a pope should be to serve the people. In breaking with certain traditions and being accessible, he is becoming the pope of surprises.

He also has a strong record as being a staunch defender of priests who labor among the poor and has shown a strong defense of Christian marriage and Catholic values. As a priest and teacher, I feel invigorated by his teachings and his approach.

At our school, we pride ourselves in providing a great education but also instilling the core principles and values of the Society of Jesus and in treating our students, parents and alumni as members of a community/ family. This is not only true in our classrooms or athletic fields but it is also a component of our summer camp.

I wish to congratulate Carlos Barquin and everyone who has worked or been a part of the camp as they embark on their 30th year serving families in the community. Their work, dedication and kindness every summer to over a thousand children is great example of working as a community for the greater glory of God.

Wishing you many blessings from the Lord, sincerely yours,

Pedro A. Suárez, SJ ‘ 58 Belen Jesuit School President

Belen Alumni Association of Jesuit Schools from Cuba and Miami Alumni Office

500 Southwest 127 Avenue Miami, Florida 33184

Miami, Florida Permit No. 1277

Calendar of events

September

Sep 2 Labor Day - School Closed

Sep 6 Belen vs Columbus Football Game/Tailgate

Sep 27 Monthly Alumni Luncheon

November

Nov 9 Colegio Sagua Reunion

Nov 22 Monthly Alumni Luncheon

Nov 23 Annual Gala

Nov 27-Dec 2 Thanksgiving Holiday

October

Oct 4-6 Class of 1988 - 25 Year Reunion Weekend

Oct 17 Parent/Teacher Conferences

Oct 18 School Closed

Oct 25 Monthly Alumni Luncheon

December

Dec 13 Semester Exams Begin

Dec 13 Monthly Alumni Luncheon

Dec 19 Semester Exams End

Dec 20 Christmas Vacation Begins

* All other activities will be announced in the weekly eNews bulletin.