Issuu

INSIDE SAYING GOODBYE TO ED BOWES â€˜60 CELEBRATING THE CLASS OF 2020 SUCCESS: THE LOUGHLIN CONNECTS CAMPAIGN

Clermont_USE.indd 2

12/23/20 1:51 PM

IN THIS ISSUE

REMEMBERING ED BOWES ‘60

LOUGHLIN CONNECTS

THE CLASS OF 2020

HYBRID LEARNING

5 From the President 17 Dedicated Service to Loughlin — Our Retirees

19 Introducing Our New Board Chair Lenue H. Singletary ’87

20 Loughlin Hoops Coach Thriving After Aneurysm ı On Coach Gonzalez

22 Around Loughlin

Clermont_USE.indd 3

27 Alumni Return Home — New Faculty and Staff

30 Class Notes ı Bishop Loughlin 32 Class Notes ı St. Augustine 33 Lancers: The Brothers Boys — Who Are They? ı by Ed Smith ’62

36 Lion Lancer Golf Outing 38 In Memoriam

12/23/20 1:51 PM

FALL/WINTER 2020 Dear Friend of Loughlin,

ADMINISTRATION Brother Dennis Cronin, FSC ı President Edward A. Bolan ’78 ı Principal Cecilia Gottsegen ı Assistant Principal Nicole Freeman ’95 ı Dean of Students Luis Montes ı Dean of Students

In a time rife with uncertainty and anxiety, it is easy to “say”

BOARD OF GOVERNORS

families and students committed to the values of a Lasallian

Loughlin is forging forward. It is quite another thing to do so: to identify where we as an institution want to be, to set the course, to anticipate the challenges, and to overcome the obstacles. This journey requires a dedicated Board, a faculty filled with zeal,

Lenue H. Singletary ’87 ı Chair Robert A. McRae ’03 ı Vice Chair Mary T. Macchiarola, Bishop McDonnell ’58 ı Secretary C. Christopher Cannon ’65 Frank K. Cheswick ’66 Brian C. Connolly ‘73 Rev. Alonzo Cox Brother Dennis Cronin, FSC ı President — ex officio Ja’von T. Delgado ’01 (Jones) Thomas J. McLaughlin ’72 Brother Edward Shields, FSC Pamela M. Sloan, Esq., Bishop McDonnell ’73 Brother Robert J. Wickman, FSC

education, an administration sharply focused on outcomes, and

DEPARTMENT OF INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT & ALUMNI RELATIONS

construction in 1932. Tom committed much time and energy to

Andrew Leary ı Vice President of Institutional Advancement Morgan Allison ı Associate Director, Institutional Advancement Josephine Santos McKenna ‘90 ı Associate Director, Institutional Advancement Tiffany Livingstone ‘00 ı Advancement Data Entry Coordinator John E. Klemm ’65 ı Advancement Consultant

really stood by my side to complete this project.

the loyalty and support of alumni and friends. Working together, Loughlin will realize its full promise for the students entrusted to our care. In this issue of Clermont you will read about the newly elected Chair of the Board of Governors. Lenny Singletary ’87 moved into a hot seat when he became Vice President for Public Relations at Brooklyn Hospital before the pandemic hit. By February he needed to respond with courage and fortitude assisting the hospital and staff meet the challenges to health and safety posed by the disease. He succeeds Tom Van Buskirk ’70 SA who saw the school through its most extensive capital project since interfacing with the architects and construction company. He

Our new staff complements an extraordinary group of professionals who serve as faculty and office personnel. They bring strong skill sets to their positions as well as positive energy. We sometimes hear it said that “everyone is replaceable,” but I am not convinced of that when I review those who

DESIGN

retired this past year: Basil Bliss, Theology; John Klemm ‘65,

EP Graphic Design ı epgraphicdesign.com

Development; Lou Maffei, Performing Arts; and Jeanne Van Velson, Mathematics. What an extraordinary group of dedicated

Clermont is published by the Bishop Loughlin Memorial High School Office of Institutional Advancement.

Lasallian educators! Sadly, we mourn the loss of one of Loughlin’s “Greats”, Ed Bowes. EJJB ‘60 loved his alma mater and Loughlin treasures Ed Bowes. His passing leaves a hole in our

Please send correspondence and address changes to: Bishop Loughlin Memorial High School Office of Institutional Advancement 357 Clermont Avenue ı Brooklyn, NY 11238 or tlivingstone@blmhs.org

institutional soul. The school opened with a Hybrid Model for learning, with an alternate option for families to choose all distance learning. A discovery from the spring was that families would prefer synchronous learning and that students would be better

Visit our website at

loughlin.org

Subscribe to our YouTube channel Find us on Facebook

Clermont_USE.indd 4

@Bishop Loughlin Memorial High School @loughlinlions @Loughlinlions

served by a common learning platform (Google Classroom was the preferred choice). Some students found that access

Front Cover: ©Munroe Photography Back Cover: Sammy Gabau ‘21 ı ©Tony Correa Studios

12/23/20 1:51 PM

FROM THE PRESIDENT Working together, Loughlin will realize its full promise for the students entrusted to our care. Br. Dennis Cronin, FSC

to technology was a

Lion Lancer Golf Outing. We knew it would be reduced in size

significant limitation.

but golf was an activity given the green light by state health

For many there were

authorities early in the summer. Despite a rough forecast, and

competing demands

other obstacles, more than 80 friends and alums joined us for a

within the family for

day worth remembering. I think those of us attending welcomed

space and/or devices.

the opportunity to share some time and stories with each other. Unfortunately, we were unable to host our annual reunions and

Over the summer our

must wait until 2021. We know that the Loughlin community will

Principal, Ed Bolan,

only grow stronger through the trials we now must face.

formed a faculty committee to examine

Be well and stay safe. Live Jesus in our hearts. Forever.

these areas. Happily, the committee came up with a solution to all of these concerns. I

Sincerely,

hope you enjoy reading about the iPads that have been supplied to all Loughlin students. The generosity of our alumni (all three schools) and friends made it possible.

Bro. Dennis Cronin, FSC, President

Arthur Ashe is an exciting and challenging program to enhance the presence of under-represented students in the medical professions. As you will see, our long standing relationship with Downstate is bearing fruit. Providing opportunities for learning and growth is at the heart of our mission. Finally, read about two quiet yet bold steps taken during the pandemic to affirm our faith in the future. They represent our attempt to move forward under trying circumstances. The first was the in-person outdoor graduation ceremony staged in the schoolyard with parents watching the ceremony from the perimeter. While planning and hoping made for an anxious summer; it was well worth it on August 1. We had invaluable support from our local 88th Precinct and from the officers of our Parent Association. The second decision was to move forward with the 23rd Annual

Clermont_USE.indd 5

12/23/20 1:51 PM

A LEGEND

REMEMBERING ED BOWES ’60 AUGUST 10, 1942 - JULY 31, 2020 “Ed Bowes, Bishop Loughlin, and most pointedly Bishop Loughlin track are like a single breath — inhaling and exhaling. It is fair to say with Ed’s passing the Loughlin community has had its breath knocked out of it.” Br. Dennis Cronin, FSC

oughlin lost a dear friend and a legend when Edward J. Bowes ‘60 passed away on July 31. The Loughlin family is simply heartbroken and mourns with his wife of 31 years, Amelia, and the entire Bowes family. Mr. Bowes was a star athlete, coach, mentor, teacher, fundraiser, and much more at Loughlin. His coaching career spanned from 1964-2003, but he remained a regular and beloved presence at Loughlin through 2020. Ed didn’t so much follow in the footsteps of the great George Eastment (1931-1945) and Bill Miles (1945-1964) as he blazed his own trail. Coach Bowes led his teams to three Championship of America races at the Penn Relays (where Loughlin has more titles than any other school), 12 CHSAA girls titles, and four boys titles. The Brother Visitor of DENA (District of Eastern North America) Bro. Dennis Lee recently said it well. “Ed expected dedication from his young track athletes, and he modeled that for them by his life. Ed was one of a kind, and indeed very kind and generous. His legacy is within the countless young lives that he helped form.”

Clermont_USE.indd 6

12/23/20 1:51 PM

EDWARD J. BOWES ’60 SCHOLARSHIP FUND Because educational opportunity for all students was incredibly important to him, we are proud to honor Mr. Bowes with the establishment of the EDWARD J. BOWES ’60 SCHOLARSHIP FUND to support scholarships for qualified student-athletes with demonstrated academic performance, financial need, and interest in track and field. You can support this scholarship fund at: loughlin.org/edbowes60scholarshipfund

What he did for CHSAA track was remarkable. For 31 years he served as meet director of the Bishop Loughlin Games at the Armory and now held at Ocean Breeze in Staten Island. The primary mission for the meet is to provide scholarships for athletes in need. In 1973 he created the first of the modern Manhattan College Invitational cross country championships at Van Cortland Park that included 12 races and nearly 2,000 athletes. It has grown to become one of the most famous events in the country with more than 40 races and more than 10,000 athletes from across the nation. He served as meet director for a remarkable 44 years. In 2019 he was presented with a finish line plaque that declared the meet’s final stretch as “Ed Bowes Way.” Before any of his coaching feats, Ed was a star athlete for both Loughlin and Manhattan College. He ran the 1972 NYC Marathon and was the race leader after 23 miles. Not long after, he began his mentorship of twotime USA Olympian Matt Centrowitz, helping the high school phenom to a 4:02.7 mile time at the AAU Junior nationals — a NY state record that stands to this day. Ed Bowes was a generous man. He gave Loughlin everything — time, energy, passion, dedication, example, and financial support. Providing scholarship aid was incredibly important to him. He gave personally and he made sure that others did the same. One of the important legacies he leaves is the Tyrone Pannell ‘60 Scholarship which has supported Loughlin students for many years. In addition to his wife Amelia, he is survived by sisters Mary Jo Crino and her husband Ralph, Kathleen White and her husband John, his brother James Bowes and his wife Dorothy, eight nieces and nephews, and seven great-nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister Geraldine Bowes and niece Julianne White. ◊

Clermont_USE.indd 7

12/23/20 1:51 PM

THE HYBRID MODEL OF LEARNING ADAPTING INSTRUCTION AND PROCESSES IN THESE UNIQUE TIMES by Aldontae Guess Lasallian Volunteer

Nine months ago, no one could have predicted that phrases such as “Zooming in” or “Virtual Gatherings” would become a part of everyday vocabulary. However, due to COVID–19, that soon became the new reality. At Loughlin we have successfully adapted to a hybrid learning model.

Hybrid learning combines in-person and online learning. Simultaneously, some students attend class in-person and some attend virtually from home.

This academic year, roughly half of our students attend school in-person every other day while the other half learns from home. A few months in, our school community has adapted to the myriad scheduling, teaching, and learning challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic. As expected, the first few weeks were challenging. As also expected, our resilient students, faculty, and administrators accepted the challenge.

In August, after a spring of distance learning, students and their families were given a choice — become a “hybrid student” or be a “distance learner” from home. Initially, about one third opted for distance learning. Hybrid/virtual students were divided in two groups — purple and gold (of course). These two groups alternate days where they attend classes at Loughlin in-person, and “Zoom in” on days when they attend classes from home. PLANNING FOR CHANGE Last spring, the school assembled and tasked a Technology Committee to comprehensively consider the challenges before our learning community, immediately, and in the future. The Technology Committee played a central role at Loughlin planning this academic year. Says member Ted Frank, the school’s Library Media Specialist, “The tech committee was called upon when Loughlin needed to transition to a virtual learning format for the remainder of spring 2020 — with the purpose of assisting Loughlin’s

Clermont_USE.indd 8

12/23/20 1:51 PM

Clermont_USE.indd 9

12/23/20 1:51 PM

From left, Eufemio Gonzalez ’22, Celines Garcia ’21, and Tiffany Isaac ’22 attending in-person with other classmates attending remotely.

I want to be as resilient as my students. Remote learning is not easy, and I am being schooled by my students each day on how to preserve through this pandemic. It’s their resiliency and ability to accept change, even get excited by change, that allows my students to show up and embrace remote learning. I look at them in awe. Emily Jackowicz, English teacher

faculty and staff in this virtual learning process. The committee met virtually throughout the spring and summer to address Loughlin’s technological needs as well as faculty and staff concerns. The committee modeled for the faculty how to make Zoom technology an effective classroom tool. The faculty now uses Zoom to ‘live teach’ all of their classes. Additionally, it was during the spring semester that the notion of having a seamless and reliable virtual learning platform was discussed, as well as the idea of potentially providing a common device, like an iPad, for all students and faculty.” (see The Loughlin Connects Campaign article on the following page) It also became apparent to a number of teachers that common email accounts for students were needed in order to better facilitate communication between faculty and students. Until now, students simply registered a personal email account with the school. After much discussion, research, and input from the faculty, it was decided that the Google platform worked best to address the school’s need. It became the home base of communication between faculty and students. Loughlin’s Technology Committee has hosted a number of professional development sessions and still provides daily tech support.

Clermont_USE.indd 10

12/23/20 1:51 PM

CAMPUS MINISTRY Google Classroom and Zoom platforms are used to maintain a strong connection with students allowing extracurricular activities to happen at Loughlin. Campus Ministry Director Michael Foley explains some of what is happening in Campus Ministry. “Nothing can stop the Lasallian Youth group at Bishop Loughlin, not even a pandemic! In the spring, our students continued to virtually meet once a week. Student leaders facilitated honest and emotional discussions of the challenges dealing with both COVID-19 and racial injustice. This year, our student leaders meet in-person with the moderator of Lasallian Youth to plan engaging meetings for the larger group. Every Thursday at 7:15pm, the group meets via Zoom to maintain the feeling of family that we are known for at Loughlin. Faith, Service, and Community continue to shine through our young people at a time in our world where this is more necessary than ever.” Our two Lasallian Volunteers are active in the department as well. Selena Berry tutors students (twice weekly) in need of academic assistance with the help of Google Classroom and Google Meets. Aldontae Guess supports our students during their independent study periods. Each day, through video, Google Classroom, and discussions, he educates and engages students. Mr. Guess also conducts both in-person and virtual prayer services as a means to nourish our students’ spiritual growth. Bishop Loughlin continues to proudly support our brother school, St. Mary’s Secondary School in Nyeri, Kenya. Our ongoing fundraising efforts have helped feed, clothe, and educate over 700 young people at St. Mary’s — we even have an online donating option. The spirit of love and giving is alive and well at Loughlin! EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES Since last spring, both Loughlin’s Poets & Writers Club and Drama Club have continued to perform successfully via Zoom and the Performing Arts Department has impressed audiences on social media with exceptional video projects. English teacher Justin Johnson, co–moderator of the Drama Club and moderator of the Anime Club, tells how they are meeting. “We are fortunate because the Anime Club activities work well virtually. A typical meeting includes a discussion about our latest favorite anime — or a heated debate about who is the best character, who might win in a fight, etc. The discussion is followed by watching an episode or two of a preselected anime that

LOUGHLIN C NNECTS CAMPAIGN The COVID-19 pandemic altered the educational landscape. Knowing the challenges would be profound when some of our students are in-person learners and some of our students are learning from home, the Loughlin Technology Committee strongly recommended a “common device” which would put all students and faculty on equal footing as we continue to provide an excellent education during this unprecedented time. All options were considered and the Apple iPad was chosen as the best choice. Loughlin administrators acknowledged that iPads were the ideal solution, but the lingering question of funding such an endeavor remained. Asking parents to incur a significant technology fee was an extremely undesirable option. The LOUGHLIN CONNECTS CAMPAIGN was born with the simple goal of securing an iPad for every Loughlin student. An anonymous alumni provided leadership for our LOUGHLIN CONNECTS CAMPAIGN as well as a significant gift for the campaign launch. And, in one month the school met the $250,000 goal — and eventually raised $282,000. We are incredibly grateful for the leadership of this anonymous donor and thank all who responded to our call. We also acknowledge the generous partnership from Apple, who matched NYC Department of Education pricing, expedited shipment, and provided a significant device upgrade (128MB) to each iPad. We are so proud of the alumni and friends who stepped up to the plate for us. We could not continue to provide the education that we do without support from all three schools — Loughlin, St. Augustine, and Bishop McDonnell Memorial High School.

Clermont_USE.indd 11

12/23/20 1:51 PM

from our

LOUGHLIN PTA PRESIDENT ADRIENNE LOISEAU P ’22

On March 13, parents received an email from Bishop Loughlin telling us that this would be the last day of on-campus classes until further notice. When I picked up my daughter Jayla ‘22 from school, we had no idea this deadly virus was going to shut down the entire school system, let alone the world. On March 15, other NYC schools started sending their students home — Loughlin was ahead of the game and leading the pack. Waiting for direction from our Mayor and Governor caused anxiety and confusion.

A student recently working in Ms. Beauvais’ ’07 art class. fits the theme for that meeting. Our Halloween-themed meeting had the largest number of students joining in so far this year!” ATHLETICS Athletic Director and PE teacher Angela Proce reports that “athletics at Bishop Loughlin is quite different this year. So far, the only sports able to compete are soccer, cross country, and bowling. Before each practice and game, temperature checks are conducted and many forms must be filled out. Participating and transportation to games, meets, or bowling matches has been challenging with hybrid students here every other day and the virtual students not. Although imperative, social distancing and wearing a mask can be difficult for athletes. With time though, everyone is becoming accustomed to wearing masks and social distancing at all times. Coaches and athletes alike are doing the best they can. As much as the pandemic has put a damper on almost everything, I do feel that student-athletes, coaches, and parents are thrilled that we are participating in athletics. There seems to be a sense of normalcy while competing or practicing.” Yes, COVID–19 has changed the world in many ways. At Bishop Loughlin we are making the best out of it and finding new ways to navigate our new normal. After all, with every stumbling block comes the chance to learn and do better for the future. Being forever resilient, Loughlin is also making proper adjustments so that it will continue thriving and serving its constituents well into the future. ◊

Loughlin began online learning March 17. There was trial and error as we all attempted to maneuver and figure this thing out — our new way of life. As the spread of COVID-19 started sweeping through our city, hospitals were filled to capacity and people were dying. This nightmare was becoming a reality, especially when it hit close to home, as it did for many Loughlin families. Many of our parents are essential workers (healthcare professionals, law enforcement, transit operators, retail associates, etc). Then we started losing family members and friends that succumbed to this deadly virus. It seems like all of this happened years ago. Here we are months later and Loughlin continues to keep our students, staff, parents, and community safe. Prior to entering the building, temperatures are taken, everyone wears a mask, hand sanitizer is in every nook and cranny, gloves are worn, and social distancing is maintained. Every two weeks Loughlin staff, students, and athletes are tested for COVID-19. Our custodians keep the entire school spotless. Our Security Enforcement Officers maintain order and safety. Every student has received an Apple iPad. Some athletic teams are competing. Virtual parent teacher conferences happened, and recruitment is taking place! The PTA Board that represents BLMHS parents and the Loughlin Leadership Team has developed a strong and transparent partnership. Together, we successfully hosted an in-person and socially-distanced graduation ceremony for our 2020 graduates in August (with the help of NYPD 88th Precinct Community Affairs). What a special and important day that was for the school community! Our virtual PTA meetings have increased to approximately 150 attendees. On behalf of our parents, we’re so proud of our school and every day we’re thankful that we made the best decision for our scholars! Enter to Learn, Leave to Serve! Go Lions! Loughlin is proud of the leadership of the Loughlin Parents Association during the pandemic. The PTA has been supportive and extremely helpful working with the administration. It is safe to say that the challenges since March could not have been successfully navigated without this partnership. We commend PTA President, Ms. Adrienne Loiseau, and her leadership team for all they have done.

Clermont_USE.indd 12

12/23/20 1:51 PM

GRADUATING IN THE MIDST OF A PANDEMIC

THE CLASS OF 2020

174 100% 95% 18+ GRADUATES

GRADUATION RATE

ATTENDING COLLEGE

MILLION DOLLARS IN SCHOLARSHIPS & FINANCIAL AID

“This was the class of ‘2020 Vision’, ‘Clear Vision’, ‘Vision of the Future’. The list of nick names for the class of 2020 was endless. However, no one envisioned the way their high school years would end for this group of dedicated seniors. This class was unique from the start — filled with energy since their freshmen year. They sustained and grew that energy each year. Looking back, they were the perfect class to deal with a historic pandemic. Their commitment to academic success and their unmatched competitiveness made them a strong class. In fact, during their junior year, I predicted they would be the first class to have 100% graduate. When our 2019 - 2020 academic year came to an abrupt halt in March, I knew that the class of 2020 would make it work. I knew their drive and ambition would make them successful. However, what made me so proud of them is the support they had for each other through such a difficult time. They motivated one another and stood together despite the distance. Their vision was clear — they would not only be a part of history, but they made history. My prediction came true! One hundred percent of the class graduated! They are indeed the ‘vision of our future’.” – Nicole Maxwell-Freeman ‘95, Dean of Students

Recently, we asked eight members of the Class of 2020 to write about their unique graduation ceremony on August 1, what they are doing now, how they are transitioning to college in the middle of a pandemic (still), and what Loughlin meant to them. These are their thoughts. ON THE CEREMONY It was hot in August — ridiculously hot! But, after missing prom, senior dedication, and our last moments in school with each other as seniors, it was wonderful that the administration and PTA were able to find a way to hold a memorable graduation ceremony — the only one ever in the schoolyard with a 100% of the class graduating...and, all at six-feet apart. The decorations were beautiful (the stage, flowers, the lion) and we were able to see everyone — and give an official goodbye to classmates, teachers, administration, and staff. This is what we cared about. It gave

us a sense of ‘normal’, and we are very thankful for that. Who knew that Friday, March 13 when school closed, we would not see each other until graduation? Safety precautions were taken; we were in the schoolyard and our parents were outside the gate, also six-feet apart. Masks were required, which made the temperature feel even hotter, but it was all worth it — we were together and this was indeed a ceremony to remember. ON LOUGHLIN When we think of Loughlin, we think - con’t on next page

Aleyana Black

Marquis Ellis

Josh Jennings

Brianna Martin 13

Clermont_USE.indd 13

12/23/20 1:51 PM

Clermont_USE.indd 14

12/23/20 1:51 PM

Pictures on these pages are from the Class of 2020 graduation ceremony held on August 1; the ﬁrst in the school’s history held outside. of family and we are grateful for all the memories; some of the best things in our lives came from here — success in academics, being a part of a sports team or a club, making lifelong friends, and building connections relating to possible career choices. For all of us, Loughlin was an amazing experience; one that we would not trade for anything. Great teachers, staff, and counselors that pushed us to be hard-working and determined, bringing

out the best in us. Loughlin will always hold a place in our hearts. WHERE ARE WE NOW? We are all in college — some in NYC, Queens, and Brooklyn; the rest of us attend college in Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Texas. We are attending on-campus and in-person (in masks and socially distanced), oncampus but mostly online, and off-campus remotely. Some of us live in a dorm (and

get tested for COVID every two weeks) and some of us have never stepped foot on campus. We are meeting new people — albeit in different ways like GroupChat, Zoom, and social media platforms specific to our majors and class years. Transitioning to college during a pandemic has been difficult, complicated, and downright weird! But, Loughlin prepared us for a college workload and attending classes remotely. So, although different, we are full of excitement for this new chapter! ◊

Contributing authors: Aleyana Black, who aspires to be a pediatrician, attends Delaware State University — majoring in Biological Sciences; Marquis Ellis is majoring in Film at Brooklyn College; Josh Jennings, a 2021 YoungArts National Competition winner, is at the University of North Texas majoring in Jazz Studies; Brianna Martin is studying business management at Post University in Connecticut on an athletic scholarship; Amber Nedd, who hopes to be a pediatric nurse or nurse practitioner, is a nursing major at LaSalle University in Philadelphia; Maria Polanco is a psychology major at SUNY, New Paltz; Lizbeth Rosario is at Queensborough Community College; and Tahj Tucker is a Music Performance major at Nyack College and is also a full-time working musician who aspires to be a touring musician/producer.

Amber Nedd

Maria Polanco

Lizbeth Rosario

Tahj Tucker 15

Clermont_USE.indd 15

12/23/20 1:51 PM

Clermont_USE.indd 16

12/23/20 1:51 PM

DEDICATED SERVICE TO LOUGHLIN RECOGNIZING OUR RETIREES This past year was especially painful for the school and its retirees because we lost one too early and we were unable to celebrate and publicly recognize these admired Loughlin faculty and staff members. These four inspired, shaped, and supported many thousands of young lives throughout their remarkable careers, leaving an indelible print in the hearts and minds of SO many! They will all be sorely missed. Thank you for your dedication, compassion, integrity, love, and support! Live Jesus in our hearts. Forever.

MR. BASIL BLISS came to Loughlin in 2004 and taught Global History. Two years later he was appointed Chair of the Theology Department and in 2011 he became the National Honor Society Moderator — a placement he was very proud of. As a master orator he prepared his students for their speeches concentrating on pronunciation, diction, projection, and delivery. A non-Catholic until his second year at Fordham University, he was “led down a different path” and converted to Catholicism. Later, he was ordained as a Deacon within the Diocese of Rockville Center. A calling that was simple for him as his nature to serve is so evident. Deacon Bliss was a devout Catholic and understood the value of service and instilled that in his students — he preached it, lived it, and exemplified it every day. Everything he did came down to service. “Students recognize and are moved, they’re touched by listening to someone preach, they know and feel that you are a religious person, and that can make all the difference!” For 29 years, he loved Bishop Loughlin — you literally couldn’t get him out of the building! He enjoyed working with Beverly Madar in the Theology Department and all the department chairs. He loved watching his students grow and develop — learning to be who they are, who they want to be, and who they were meant to be. He once said, “It’s a magnificent thing!” Deacon Bliss was the designated cook at all the Loughlin retreats he attended. Campus Ministry Director Mr. Foley says, “he took over the entire operation so everyone could get back to retreating and get the most from their time together.” He did all the shopping (clipping coupons and finding the best bargains), planning, and meal prep. He cooked, set and cleared the table, washed the dishes, and would even scrub the floors! He enjoyed and took pride in nourishing people — it was like “serving the bread of life.”

Mr. Bliss was known for his hearty laugh; his students referred to him as their very own “James Earl Jones”! He enjoyed crossword puzzles, cigars, and golfing. He was usually the first on campus, opening the gates with Mrs. Van Velson (his morning buddy), even tending to snow removal if necessary. He loved snipping and collecting anything that said “Bliss” and would hang his findings behind his desk. Unfortunately, these words are more poignant now than when they were penned. Basil was diagnosed with cancer in July, and sadly passed away on November 27. Our heartfelt sympathies go to his wife Kathy and their two sons P.J. and Jeﬀ. We will miss you Mr. Bliss!

JOHN KLEMM ‘65 was wisely hired in 1996 as the perfect person to lead a newly formed Development Office at Loughlin by Br. James Bonilla, FSC. Brother James was delighted that an alum would be heading the development team. Mr. Klemm worked tirelessly to procure funds, with the assistance of amazing alumni contributions and donations for major/capital upgrades. He and his teams throughout the years are credited with accomplishing (just to mention a few) the renovations of our athletic facilities, the fitness center, the Lion Lancer Golf Outing, the restoration of our outdoor track, the dance studio, the Lancer Music Studio, the Cozzi-Murray Performing Arts Center, and refurbishing the auditorium. At the start of his tenure, Loughlin raised about $125,000 in annual contributions. Today, the Advancement Office raises nearly two million dollars each year, in addition to previously established endowed scholarship funds. A significant part of our overall success is participation from St. Augustine alumni and Bishop McDonnell alumnae. John established both the St. Augustine and Bishop McDonnell alumni associations. - con’t on next page

Clermont_USE.indd 17

12/23/20 1:51 PM

He’s going to miss his colleagues, everyone he’s “had the pleasure of working with them,” the day-to-day excitement of the position, and watching a project grow to fruition — from concept, blueprint, breaking ground, progress, and finally — its completion. And through it all, he can literally recall someone he spoke to a few times, years before, and tell you their nickname, where they hail from, who they’re married to, their profession, the names of their children and sometimes, even where they like to vacation… now that’s talent. Mr. Klemm is a kind, sweet man with a heart of gold, a true son of Old St. James, and a Loughlin advocate with only its best interest at heart. He’s most proud of the students, who through the assistance of the alumni from St. Augustine, Bishop McDonnell, and Loughlin, have been able to attend or stay at Loughlin. He is in awe of the number of students that have been helped and is especially proud when a student stops him, or a recent graduate returns, to thank him because they recognize and appreciate that it may not have come to pass without his support. He knows it’s the job, that the scholarship or assistance didn’t directly come from him, but he played an enormous part. Mr. Klemm says, “Those words of gratitude, the gleam in their eye, the smiles on their faces, their accomplishments and grace — well there’s just no better feeling than that! The affirmation that I helped make it happen, priceless!” Lovingly known as “Jed”, he looks forward to rooting on his beloved Giants, golfing, gardening, traveling, and more importantly, relaxing with his wife Kathleen, children Kristyn, Todd, and Steven, and their grandchildren Sean, Nora, and Sadie. He will stay on as consultant in the Advancement Office to allow for a smooth transition for the newly appointed Associate Directors of Institutional Advancement. After 24 years of service “it’s time to turn over the reins and enjoy the fruits of [his] labor.” _____________________________________________ Well…now both “Chaco” and “The Nail” have left the building! LOUIS MAFFEI has touched the lives of countless students during his 42 years of service. His impact is immeasurable, yet at the heart of it all is “his heart”. His unfaltering genuine love of music and teaching are evident in everything he does. He’s proud of everything that takes place within these walls. “Walking into

school every day and feeling that what I’m doing is important is fulfilling and extremely rewarding,” he recently said. He’s incredibly proud of all the students he’s taught along the way and appreciates how, even years after graduation, it’s the same relationship, like no time has passed. He can recall how every time they walked into class, he wanted his students to succeed because they had SO much in them. No one knows how he did it all — a long commute, early mornings, late nights, weekend performances and shows, and the NYC Marathons. And then after teaching all day, he taught private music lessons! Mr. Maffei says he would experience nightmares contemplating retirement, but feels “there are only so many years on this Earth.” He is confident that the “group” he left in charge of the Arts Department will carry on because they all know so much about “what we’re trying to do here.” He believes Loughlin isn’t “just academics, it’s a way of life and teaching is not a job, it’s a vocation; a vehicle to sainthood.” He plans on visiting Loughlin from time to time. He loves his family deeply and they love Loughlin just as much as he does! He’s looking forward to putting together a big Loughlin Band once the pandemic is over and congregating is permissible and can’t wait to spend time with his wife Jeaneane, daughters Diana and Christina, and sons-in-law Peter and Anthony — and being the best granddad to little Robbie! Loughlin is forever grateful to Mr. Maffei’s family for their patience, love, support, and understanding and for ‘loaning’ us Mr. Maffei for so long. In my life, “I’ll love you more” — you’ll forever be the wind beneath our wings. _____________________________________________ JEANNE VAN VELSON first came to Loughlin in 1979 and left in 1992 to earn her second Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy (the first was in Mathematics). After a few years of counseling couples, she missed working with teenagers. In 1995 she returned to Loughlin. Every day she looked forward to seeing her students; “watching them experience success and grow with confidence…it was nice to challenge them and look in to their

Clermont_USE.indd 18

12/23/20 1:51 PM

LENUE H. SINGLETARY ’87 faces for that moment when they figured out a concept and really learned.” Assistant Principal Ms. Gottsegen said “she was an extraordinary teacher in the classroom and a great teacher to teachers!” Students returned from college year after year, singing her praises and thanking her when they passed their college Calculus courses. It was Mrs. Van Velson that introduced AP Calculus to Loughlin’s curriculum. Her students over the years have nothing but love, admiration, and respect for her as a teacher. Mrs. Van Velson will forever be grateful for the community that is Loughlin, for all it stands for, and for all who have walked through its doors. She hopes that Loughlin is around forever because “a world without Bishop Loughlin would leave an incredible and unimaginable void that no other institution could fill.” She feels blessed to have been a part of Loughlin for so long and has nothing but wonderful memories of her time here — the students, her talented colleagues, the day she and said colleagues took Mr. Lebeux’s desk and put it on the roof, and the most supportive administration anyone could hope for — an administration that allowed her to soar and challenge her students with new methodology without restricting her creativity as Department Chair. “Retirement” though still hasn’t set in; it is something she is looking forward to… but she “will miss Loughlin forever.” She and her husband Richard are awaiting the completion of a new home in Florida and they look forward to spending time together and making new memories. Combined, Mrs. Van Velson has been a part of our school for 38 years! We will miss her hugs and laughter, knowledge, love of Math, and her smile. ◊

INTRODUCING OUR NEW BOARD CHAIR

ishop Loughlin is excited to announce the election of its new Board of Governors Chairman. Lenue H. Singletary ’87, has been on the board for three years and joined as a Vice President at the Bank of NY Mellon. In 2019 Lenny transitioned to The Brooklyn Hospital Center, where he is Senior Vice President for External Affairs, Strategy, and Marketing, leading legislative affairs, community relations, marketing, communications, strategy, and business development. The community hospital has been in the spotlight for its heroic work in the pandemic’s early months. Lenny served on the hospital’s Board of Trustees from 2014 to 2019.

Lenue H. Singletary ’87

Prior to his current position, Lenny was Chief Administrative Officer for BNY Mellon’s Treasury division — responsible for overseeing the strategic management and development of BNY Mellon’s relationships with the Federal Reserve Bank and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). He also served as the business representative for diversity and inclusion. In addition to serving on Loughlin’s Board, Lenny, a lifelong Brooklynite, is Chairperson of Community Board 2 and sits on the boards of Bedford Stuyvesant Restoration Corporation, Brooklyn Academy of Music, Downtown Brooklyn Partnership, ModernMD Urgent Care, among other charitable and civic organizations. A FOND FAREWELL TO THOMAS VAN BUSKIRK ‘70, ST. AUGUSTINE Thomas Van Buskirk ’70 SA, the first Lancer to lead the board, has been a steady and inspiring presence for many years. Mr. Van Buskirk joined our Board in 2011 and served as chair since 2016. He received the Lionheart Award in 2017. Notably, Tom was board chair for the final stage of the successful Three Schools One Foundation Campaign — leading the largest scale renovation in school history. In partnership with the Loughlin Foundation, the three-year project, completed in 2019, made vital repairs to the entire school building exterior. Mr. Van Buskirk led the board with great enthusiasm and a good sense of humor. New chair, Lenny Singletary ‘87 said, “it is an honor taking the baton from Tom. He created an open and collegial environment making it fun while we attended to Loughlin business. He is a great model for leadership.” We wish Tom well as he and his wonderful wife, Robbie, move to Pennsylvania. 2020 - 2021 BOARD OF GOVERNORS ELECTED OFFICERS Lenue H. Singletary ‘87 ı Chair Robert A. McRae ‘03 ı Vice Chair Mary T. Collins Macchiarola ‘58 (BMD) ı Secretary

Clermont_USE.indd 19

12/23/20 1:51 PM

Clermont_USE.indd 20

12/23/20 1:51 PM

LOUGHLIN HOOPS COACH THRIVING AFTER ANEURYSM by Jim Mancari reprinted with permission from THE TABLET, December 9, 2020

Head boys’ varsity basketball coach Ed Gonzalez has been a fixture in the local Catholic league for more than a decade.

he life of a high school basketball coach can be stressful at times. Game plans, high-pressure situations and travel — especially around New York City — can all take their toll over time. Bishop Loughlin H.S., Fort Greene, head boys’ varsity basketball coach Ed Gonzalez has been a fixture in the local Catholic league for more than a decade. He’s seen it all, from winning three Brooklyn-Queens titles to four appearances in the city championship final game. So it’s safe to say that he’s experienced his fair amount of stress. Yet Gonzalez is an example that leading a healthy lifestyle amidst stress can wind up saving your life. Just about one year ago, the Lions were set to open their CHSAA league play on Dec. 3, 2019 against rival St. Francis Prep on the road in Fresh Meadows. Gonzalez, then 56, remembers speaking to his family in days prior to the game, telling them how great he felt physically heading into a new season. The game was a back-and-forth contest with many lead changes and lots of excitement. With just over a minute remaining, Gonzalez all of a sudden sat

down. If you know Gonzalez, you know he never sits down during a game. “My body felt very funny,” he said. “I sat down during a time-out and said I didn’t feel good and wasn’t sure what’s going on.” Once his eyes started rolling back in his head, that was the signal for medical staff on hand to administer first aid. An ambulance arrived to rush Gonzalez to New York-Presbyterian Queens, where members of the Bishop Loughlin community — some of whom were not even at the game — showed up to be by his side. Bishop Loughlin Dean Luis Montes sat with Gonzalez in the emergency room. When Gonzalez complained of a terrible headache, Montes happened to stop a nurse in passing, prompting hospital staff to perform a CT scan. It was at that moment that doctors sent him straight to emergency surgery in what proved to be a race against time. The CT scan showed bleeding in the brain caused by a ruptured cerebral aneurysm, a condition associated with a high likelihood of disability and even death. Thanks to the rapid response by Dr. Ning Lin and the team at New York-Presbyterian Queens, Gonzalez received the timely care needed to save his life. After surgery, Gonzalez woke up two weeks later at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center in Manhattan. In total, he spent two and a half months in the hospital, since he had to relearn basic human functions, including how to walk. Doctors said his baseline health before the incident helped lead to his successful ongoing recovery.

In what became a reversal of roles, Gonzalez — normally the coach — was now the student learning from his medical team. He listened to his inner voice as a coach, which gave him the determination to fight through the toughest moments of his recovery. The support of his family and his Lions team helped motivate him to get stronger. In the meantime, his childhood friend Tony Chiles took over the basketball team as the interim coach, assisted by Gerrad Herbert and Victor Monaros, for the remainder of the season. “The Loughlin family was unbelievable,” Gonzalez said. “The support that they bestowed on me from the very beginning was amazing. I must have gotten Christmas cards from everyone in the school. I think the power of prayer is what healed me.” Gonzalez is now back to work part time as Bishop Loughlin’s director of admissions. He is also easing back into his coaching role, though there has been no official word on the start of the high school basketball season due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As he continues to get stronger and prepare for the varsity hoops season, Gonzalez wants to remind folks to get regular checkups, listen to their bodies, maintain a healthy diet and try to keep stress levels down. All of these factors can play a role in minimizing the risks of serious illness. “Right now, I’m blessed to be here, and I’m so happy that I got a second chance,” Gonzalez said. “A parent told me it was not my time, since I do so much good for kids. My job is not done yet.” ◊

Clermont_USE.indd 21

12/23/20 1:51 PM

AROUND LOUGHLIN SPOTLIGHT

RONAN McGOURAN ‘21

favorite part of my middle-school summers was attending the basketball camp at Loughlin. The camp was my introduction to the school and I fell in love with the environment. Mr. Gonzalez, Loughlin’s head basketball coach, who was running the camp, was very welcoming and encouraging; he became a mentor to me. After visiting during a shadow day, I knew Loughlin was home. So, the decision to transfer was easy! Now I am a senior; I wouldn’t change anything about my years here. I have friendships and memories that will last forever. I have had a well-rounded experience — I am on the varsity basketball team and a member of the National Honor Society. I recently became an a Loughlin Ambassador.

I transferred to Loughlin after my freshman year — one of the best decisions I have made in my life. Ronan McGouran ’21

Dealing with the uncertainty and unpleasantness of the pandemic has made the last several months challenging. As different as school has been, Loughlin adapted and provides me with a unique opportunity to learn. I am in-school every other day and attend virtually the other days. The process and procedures of returning to school has taken away the anxiety of being in school during the coronavirus. The safety precautions, guidelines, and testing every other week has created a comfortable and safe environment. Although I miss the traditional schedule, I am still grateful to experience my senior year and prepare for college at Bishop Loughlin. I not only want to attend a college of my choice with a scholarship, I want to play Division I basketball as well. I am interested in Hofstra University, Seton Hall University, Xavier University, and Howard University. These schools fit my personality and will help me to obtain my goals in the future of traveling the world so I can experience different cultures and ways of life. With the support of the Bishop Loughlin community, I am looking forward to the rest of my senior year and seeing what the future brings. I plan on majoring in marketing and pursuing a career path in marketing and advertising. I know the well-rounded diversity of the education at Bishop Loughlin has prepared me to achieve my goals and aspirations. ◊

Clermont_USE.indd 22

12/23/20 1:51 PM

SPOTLIGHT

ENGLISH DEPARTMENT MEMBER EMILY JACKOWICZ REFLECTS ON TEACHING

eflection is a powerful tool. It allows me to find meaning and awareness in life. So I ask myself, how did I end up at Bishop Loughlin? There have been failures and successes that led me here — both have encouraged many learning experiences. And, there has been a lot of sweat, a lot of tears, and a lot of growth in order to have those learning experiences. Teachers are the educators of the youth, but the youth, and the job in general, educate us along the way as well. To be a teacher is to never stop learning, but it’s also the formula to being a good human being. I am a better person because of this career. In 2013, I had the privilege of teaching abroad in Ghana, West Africa. When I was placed in an unfamiliar place with unfamiliar customs, I was taken out of my comfort zone and forced to learn the power of differences. Your opinion is not right or wrong compared to mine, it is simply different. If your way of dealing with a student is different than mine, neither of us are right or wrong, we are just different.

Teachers are the educators of the youth, but the youth, and the job in general, educate us along the way as well. To be a teacher is to never stop learning, but it’s also the formula to being a good human being. Emily Jackowicz

Ghana had a lot of disciplinary structures inside and outside of the classroom that I did not agree with, and that is, simply put, completely fine. Most of the time, we wanted the same outcome, but because of our different backgrounds and customs, we had different ways of approaching the task. Later on in my career, I found myself in another unique teaching opportunity in a small mountain town called Cuba, New Mexico. I learned the impact of community and heritage. Because this mountain town was off the beaten path, it allowed for the power of community to thrive; Cuba’s community, its people and its history, is what enabled the town to keep flourishing. Everyone knew that New York teacher shopping at the grocery store owned by my student’s family. I had breakfast at the table next to the owner of my other

favorite restaurant. I lived next door to my coworkers, and someone from town always called me to let me know my dog was out, again, running up the hill. Cuba stuck together to succeed, and help their neighbors succeed. Most recently, I found myself back in New York, teaching in Brooklyn — and I haven’t left this borough since. My city kids have taught me numerous lessons, but the one that stands out the most now is the power of being real. Know who my authentic self is, show up as my authentic self, and be that authentic person that my students can rely on. Superficiality will get you nowhere with these students because it’s not how you gain trust. Without trust, a teacher will never fully reach their students. And now, here I am in my second school year at Loughlin. And what have I learned? I want to be as resilient as children. Remote learning has been no easy feat, and I am being schooled by my students on how to preserve through this pandemic. It’s this resiliency and ability to accept change, even get excited about change, that allows these students to show up and complete remote learning; it makes me look at them in awe. I take all of these lessons to live my daily life in a more fulfilling way. I also bring these lessons into the classroom to be a better teacher and share with my students. They are not just academic learners, they are people I am preparing to go out into the world and live meaningful lives. ◊

Clermont_USE.indd 23

12/23/20 1:51 PM

AROUND LOUGHLIN SCIENCE

LOUGHLIN STUDENTS SHINE AT THE ARTHUR ASHE INSTITUTE FOR URBAN HEALTH

ishop Loughlin has offered outstanding high school science education programs for many years. This year was no exception, with many graduates choosing majors and colleges with excellent medical, biology, premed, and other science programs. Loughlin is a PLTW (Project Lead The Way) school offering a broad selection of challenging courses in Engineering and Biomedical Science. One of the reasons Loughlin excels in the sciences is its longterm partnership with the The Arthur Ashe Institute for Urban Health Science Academy (HSA) at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University. The mission of the Health Science Academy — an enrichment afterschool pipeline program serving students in grades 6-12 — is to “inspire and prepare the next generation of culturally competent minority healthcare professionals.” HSA’s three-year program component “the Academy” serves historically underrepresented, high

achieving, and motivated college-bound students (grades 10 -12) interested in health and science careers. Since its inception in 1994, it has served more than 1,600 high school students from over a dozen partner high schools in Brooklyn. We are proud of all of our students who participate. This year, Loughlin had the highest number of graduates (14) among the 50 participating seniors. Additionally, Loughlin students placed seven of the top ten in overall program achievement receiving the Grand Slam Award. Congratulations to Asha Griffith (Class of 2020 Valedictorian), Cherron Griffith (Class of 2020 Salutatorian), Chloe Iniss, Arielle Frederic, Bianca Jobe, Nosimat Salami, and Morgan West. HSA states that “our Grand Slam scholars are those who have excelled in all the areas we value — academics, community service, and engagement — those who have truly taken advantage of all the Academy has to offer. They are Academy

Grand Slam Award Scholar recipient Morgan West ’20. Scholars who have also demonstrated their commitment to our mission of eliminating health disparities.” Morgan West ‘20 learned a great deal about health disparities while attending the Health Science Academy. “They taught us about health disparities within low income

ne student set herself apart over her three years in the Arthur Ashe Health Science Academy. Class of 2020 Valedictorian Asha Griffith is only the second student to receive the prestigious Furchgott Youth Scholar Award. The Dr. Robert F. Furchgott Society at SUNY Downstate honored the 1998 Nobel Prize winner at the virtual graduation ceremony by presenting Asha with a scholarship gift. Asha posted an overall score of 101 — along with a three-year perfect attendance. Asha also participated in the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation’s clinical research internship as part of a team conducting research on blood pressure and hypertension in men. Her team’s research poster will be published on AAIUH’s website later this year.

Class of 2020 Valedictorian Asha Grifﬁth.

Asha told us that “as a student of the Health Science Academy, I had the privilege of learning more about the human body from medical professionals and students.” One of her favorite parts of the program was having the opportunity to have real-world experiences. “A highlight was the opportunity to dissect a sheep uterus and heart. We also had the chance to see cadavers in SUNY Downstate’s cadaver lab.” Spoken like a future medical professional, Asha! She accepted the Presidential Scholarship and attends Long Island University, majoring in biology.

Clermont_USE.indd 24

12/23/20 1:51 PM

ARTS

Our Grand Slam Scholars are those who have excelled in all the areas we value — academics, community service, and engagement. They are Academy Scholars who have also demonstrated their commitment to our mission of eliminating health disparities.

Against a Loughlin backdrop, members of the Performing Arts Department (students and alumni) produced and performed a rendition of the Beyoncé “Before I Let Go”. You can hear and see this wonderful video at loughlin.org/beforeiletgo.

PTA

THANKSGIVING BASKETS FOR THOSE IN NEED ASSEMBLED AND DISTRIBUTED

Health Science Academy

minorities and how important it is to have health equity for all. Currently with the COVID-19 pandemic, we are all seeing first-hand how health disparities play a huge role in today’s society.” Not only did she learn about disparities, she conducted meaningful research. “Last year, I joined the Brooklyn Health Disparities Summer Internship Program. I was paired with a research group to do research at the American Cancer Society. Our group was selected to present our findings at Brooklyn Borough Hall. Both Bishop Loughlin and HSA pride themselves on outstanding outcomes for their scholars. One benchmark is college acceptance, another is college scholarship offers. Loughlin’s 14 graduates were accepted to 94 colleges and universities and earned almost six million dollars in scholarship offers. ◊

PTA members assemble baskets.

On November 23, a group of Loughlin PTA members assembled and distributed baskets — with everything a family needed to celebrate Thanksgiving — to more than 30 families. The baskets of turkey, stuffing, cornbread, vegetables, cranberry sauce, desserts, and more, were given to anyone who needed a little help this year during this unprecedented time. The money for the baskets was raised through various events sponsored by the PTA during the 2019-20 school year. Leftover food was donated to a local church that was distributing food as well.

The school is grateful to our Police ofﬁcer Robinson and Detective Jones helped in wonderful Loughlin PTA members Adrienne Loiseau P ’22, the distribution of baskets. (PTA President), Sandra Bryce P ’22, Lisa Francis P ’22, Wendy Morgan P ’20, and Michelle Lopez P ’22 for their help in assembling the baskets. A special thanks to the NYPD for their assistance. ◊

Clermont_USE.indd 25

12/23/20 1:51 PM

AROUND LOUGHLIN Our student groups meet, host events, and show school spirit in new and creative ways this year.

Some of our Student Ambassadors.

OUR AMBASSADORS Our Ambassadors are current Loughlin students who support the Admissions Office in events such as open houses, shadow days, and tour days. In all these events now, social distancing and mask requirements are in place at all times. One Ambassador says, “COVID-19 has made it harder to interact with perspective students and parents because we want to keep ourselves and our future classmates healthy! But while making the experiences as safe as possible, Ambassadors make sure to show how strong our Loughlin pride is.”

FACULTY AUTHOR

E MENT CHAIR MIK ENGLISH DEPART K O SECOND BO PEROS PUBLISHES

Jose Many people know rca Ferrer for his Os ce as winning performan , but rac Cyrano de Berge es ch rea e his importanc it d an t, far beyond tha s that Jose Ferrer: is Mike Peros hope ge fans rediscover l helps film and sta n Success and Surviva role as Cyrano wo ical figure. Ferrer’s tor an important theatr Ac st t also the Be st Actor Oscar, bu to him not only the Be Puerto Rican actor rst fi the ces, he was e Th as Tony; in both instan cs ssi such cla film career included accomplish this. His ulin Rouge. e of Arabia, and Mo

Caine Mutiny, Laure

LOUGHLIN POETS & WRITERS CLUB CELEBRATES HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH In September, as part of St. Joseph’s College’s (Brooklyn) Hispanic Heritage Month Lecture Series, the leaders of Loughlin’s Poets & Writers Club, sophomores Jocelyn Atienza Serrano (President) and Tai Sheppard (Vice President), along with club moderator, Mr. Frank attended a Zoom Webinar featuring graphic novelist Edgardo MirandaRodriguez — most notably recognized as the writer and creator of the critically acclaimed and bestselling superhero series La Borinqueña — part of the permanent collection at the Smithsonian Museum. Mr. Miranda-Rodriguez shared how the long, untaught history of Puerto Rico and a desire for social justice led to the creation of his iconic, female superhero.

LASALLIAN YOUTH Lasallian Youth remains active despite the pandemic. Every Thursday, via Zoom, students participate in activities that support the purpose of Lasallian Youth — Faith, Service, and Community. Allowing the students to connect on a more personal level is important in times like this.

LOUGHLIN BAND Kamiyah Parchment ‘22, a part of the performing arts program, explains that “This year the performing arts program is doing their best to conduct business as usual. The larger school band meets daily during school hours via Zoom and plays together — although they are apart. Small Band meets after school virtually and occasionally hybrid students meet in-person. The pandemic made us realize how important we are to each other and how much we rely on one another to accomplish group goals. It has been hard on everyone but I think Loughlin is doing a good job making us feel like nothing can hold us back.”

Clermont_USE.indd 26

12/23/20 1:52 PM

FACULTY & STAFF

ALUMNI RETURN HOME Four Loughlin alumni returned to their alma mater in September. In total, we are proud of the twelve alumni who serve in various capacities at Loughlin! We are incredibly excited to welcome back Tiffany Livingstone ‘00, Josephine (Santos) McKenna ‘90, Grace Brancale ’12, and Ahmbria Garner ‘12.

Grace Brancale ’12

Tiffany Livingstone ’00

Grace Brancale ‘12 graduated from Columbia University in 2018, where she majored in Music Theory. Prior to returning to Loughlin she taught at Success Charter Academy in Brooklyn. When she received a call from her former Music Director Mr. Lou Maffei that there was an opening, she “jumped at the opportunity” as she put it. “It has been a very smooth transition, it feels like I’ve come home.” _________________________ Tiffany Livingstone ‘00 plays a vital role in two school offices — the Office of our Assistant Principal, Ms. Gottsegen, and the Office of Institutional Advancement. Her career has taken her to Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, Grand Central Neighborhood Social Services Corporation, and the Salvation Army. When asked how she felt about returning to Loughlin, she replied that “being back feels like I am right back home where I belong! It is pleasure to be working with Ms. Gottsegen, who was my Guidance Counselor as a student. It is great to see the changes that have taken place over 20

Josephine (Santos) McKenna ’90 Leary. Her first day was “like traveling back in time. I am 16 again and filled with high hopes and ready to serve!” She continued that the “students are just as we once were and striving for the same things we once did. They struggle and hope for things that perhaps at one point in their young lives seemed out of reach, and yet Loughlin, with its amazing faculty, administration and staff help them realize that whatever they’re searching is attainable.” _________________________

Ahmbria Garner ’12 years. I hope to continue to be a part of the Loughlin community for the next 20 years.” _________________________ Josephine (Santos) McKenna ‘90 takes on the newly created position of Associate Director of Institutional Advancement after the recent retirement of John Klemm ‘65. She will work closely with her colleagues Morgan Allison and Andrew

Ahmbria Garner ‘12, who is in the classroom teaching Spanish 2, graduated from St. Joseph’s College with a BA in Psychology and minors in English and Biology. She is currently pursuing her MSEd in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at St. John’s University. Ahmbira says that “teaching at Loughlin has been a great experience. Being a recent graduate, it felt a bit awkward being on the other side of things at first. I feel blessed to have the opportunity to continue being a part of the Loughlin family.” ◊

Clermont_USE.indd 27

12/23/20 1:52 PM

AROUND LOUGHLIN

ATHLETICS

Loughlin sports teams power on!

BOWLING Bowling is off to a great start for the season in spite of all the obstacles to safe and efficient practice sessions. Kiev Charles ’23 scored a 160 in bowling which was the highest score in years. Charles Karim ‘23 scored a 112.

MEN’S BASKETBALL Ronan McGouran ‘21, a member of the varsity team reports that “because of COVID-19, the basketball season has been delayed, and preparing for my senior season has been different from the past years. Although the pandemic brings struggles and difficulties, the basketball program run by Coach Gonzalez has been working hard. With multiple practices during the

week, the team is divided into groups of four, which allows us to work on our endurance and individual skills. This is very helpful for the team because we can work on our game consistently and in small groups while following safety procedures and social distancing. Being able to practice safely with my teammates has strengthened my experience during the pandemic. As we continue to train, I pray for an end to this crisis.”

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL Like the men’s basketball team, COVID-19 has changed the season in major ways — the season will not begin until January (we hope). Practices are different, masks are worn at all times while working out

Clermont_USE.indd 28

12/23/20 1:52 PM

— though it’s hard to breathe in them. In the beginning, in order to maintain social distancing, only five people were allowed in the gym at a time — including coaches. Kennedy Grady ‘22 says “Since the season is supposed to start in January, the team is preparing with practice every weekend at the school. If tested, the entire team is allowed to participate. This helps because during the week many of the players attend school virtually. We are also preparing by utilizing our new coach for strength and conditioning to make us stronger, faster, and ready for the season.”

SOCCER The soccer season was challenging for most of our players — many were unable to play soccer over the summer because of quarantine and some felt they even forgot how to play! But that didn’t stop the team from getting out there and representing Loughlin. Hard work at every soccer practice and in every single game made for a productive season that was a lot of fun. The team progresses every year.

In spite of a delayed season and several canceled meets, the school’s two cross country teams were able to compete at the CHSAA Intersectional and Sectional Championships.

SOFTBALL The softball team held their first clinic in mid-November and are looking forward to their season this spring. Games are scheduled to begin after Easter break. Coach Callahan is excited for the year with his team and their potential and willingness to learn. ◊

Clermont_USE.indd 29

12/23/20 1:52 PM

CLASS NOTES BISHOP LOUGHLIN SUBMIT YOURS Send us your news! Do you have a new job, a personal achievement, family changes, or a memory? We want to hear from you! email mallison@blmhs.org mail Class Notes Office of Institutional Advancement Bishop Loughlin Memorial High School 357 Clermont Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11238

Matthew Panczyk ‘50 retired from teaching in 1998 — having taught at Bergen Community College, Paramus, NJ, and earlier, in Camden , NJ. “I am in touch with four Loughlinites, a “band of brothers”, from the class of 1952. My brother Ray Panczyk ‘52 is retired from Catholic Relief Services and the Peace Corps but is still working with a small school in Niger, West Africa. Ray raises funds and is an advisor to their organization. Art DeSimone, MD ’52 is retired, but serves as the director of a volunteer medical clinic in Hackensack, NJ. Both Jay Fraser ‘52 and Steve Gaughran ‘52 live in Long Island with their families. All five of us are graduates of Manhattan College — where we continued to benefit from the tutelage of the Christian Brothers, or “the monks” as they were sometimes called. One of the very special lessons that we received is saying the short prayers which we said daily at Loughlin: St. John Baptist de La Salle...pray for us! Live Jesus in our hearts. Forever!” Anthony Cottell ‘54 is enjoying life in The Villages, FL.

Members of the St. Augustine class of 1965 have been catching up inperson every year since 2001. This photo is from their 2019 gathering. This year, in lieu of physically gathering, the class has elected to send donations to Loughlin in support of scholarships. We are grateful!

Daniel Soﬁeld ‘55 joined the Missionary Servants of the Most Holy Trinity after graduating from Loughlin — “where I am Brother Loughlan. I have had the privilege of working in 300 dioceses on six continents and have had a dozen books published.” Edward O’Donnell ‘56 is still working as a Senior Geologist for the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission in the Office of Research. “We are located in Rockville, MD, which is a northern suburb of DC. In March, NRC transitioned to 100% telework with great success, which was a surprise to us all. My wife continues to teach cello at our home. We have three children. One lives near Dulles Airport and the other two live in San Diego. Each has two children for a total of six grandchildren for us. I look back fondly at the education I received at Loughlin and at Queens College. It’s a big surprise

to hear that Brooklyn has become such a desirable place to live. I wish my best to the current crop of Loughlin students. I hope you are able to return to in class learning soon.” Dennis Duﬀy ‘57 retired in 2014 and is home more now due to COVID-19. “I grow vegetables and herbs at my residence and my Adirondack vacation home, have built seven planter boxes to accommodate my “farms”, installed three drip irrigation systems to water, built and hung six bird houses, installed a solar panel on my boat to keep the bilge pump from running the battery down, researched 500 Union Army veterans and entered the findings into a database maintained by the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War (SUVCW), read more books, enjoyed fresh from my garden salads almost every day, made tomato sauce, repaired the firing platform at my gun club, and am incredibly busy as Treasurer of my homeowners association as well as Secretary/Treasurer of the Moses A. Baldwin Camp #544, SUVCW & Graves Registration Officer of the Dept. of NY, SUVCW. I miss my three times a week gym and pool visits but that gives me more time to advocate for school choice — the most important issue facing our nation today! My email is duffy99999@ aol.com.” John (Jack) Lynch ‘57 retired from Federal Executive Service, and since 2004, is living in Colorado. “Would love to hear from classmates; I can be reached at hattaboat@aol.com.” Thomas J. Lynch ‘57 is living in Melville, LI and Bluffton, SC, trying to outfox the weather. Widowed in 2016; remarried in 2019. He writes, “Life is good, as are my seven grandchildren. Trying to stay healthy both physically and spiritually. Loughlin was great preparation for life. Adversity and complexity are significantly reduced by goodness and kindness.” John Tarpey ‘57 left New York for the U.S. Coast Guard’s boot camp at Cape May, NJ “right after graduation along with two of my classmates Tom McCarthy ‘57 and Larry Devine ‘57. After completing our training, we returned to New York and I attended at Fordham’s School of Business. Prior to graduation in 1963, I joined the ranks of the NYC Police Department and spent almost 29 years there — retiring as a Lieutenant. I’ve

Clermont_USE.indd 30

12/23/20 1:52 PM

been retired 31 years and married for 56. My wife and I raised three sons and a daughter. My oldest son retired as a Captain in the Navy and now works as a NY State investigator. My second son retired from the NYPD Aviation Unit and is now a pilot for American Airlines. My youngest is a sergeant with the Port Authority Police and my daughter is a nurse at a hospital on Long Island. I miss my years at Loughlin and still stay in touch with John Power, Mike Lagana, and Tom McCarthy.” Fr. John Sullivan, OCD ‘59 writes “This summer, The Center for the History of Women Philosophers and Scientists at Paderborn University, Germany accepted copies of my published writings (50+) about Saint Edith Stein into their archives for consultation by interested scholars.” John J. Burns ‘61 and his wife Joan “celebrated virtually (via Zoom) — because of the pandemic — our 50th wedding anniversary. On the call were our three children, their spouses, seven grandchildren, and a merry mix of relatives. We continue to be enriched by the miracle of the love that we found in each other and our family and friends. For the fact that we found love, we pay thanks to God.” James P. McLoughlin ’61 moved back to Long Island in September. “My new address is 48 La Bonne Vie Drive, Apt. F, Patchogue, NY 11772. One of the fondest memories I have of my four years at Loughlin was the annual June boat ride to Rye Beach. The ride was fantastic and the amusement park at Rye Beach, wonderful. The Rye Beach boat ride signaled the end of another successful year at Loughlin and was always a lot of fun.” David W. Mount ‘62 has been the coach of the University of Vermont Business Case Team. “Teams compete in competition both in the U.S. and in other countries. The principal annual competition is the Family Enterprise Case Competition held in Burlington, Vermont each January. The competition has 24 competitors from every continent. The 2021 competition will be virtual, adding a new and untested dimension.” Anthony A. Cella, Ph.D., CPA ‘63 reports, “I started a dot.com business in 1999 and took it public, with an IPO in 2000. Built

the business and sold it to the largest European Phone company in 2008. Currently started a money management corporation and has grown the company to 25 people, moving and managing money through Europe, Asia, Mid-east, South America, and Africa.” Michael Della Croce ’63 writes “My wife, Theresa, and I are very proud of our granddaughter Olivia. She graduated from St. Theresa’s Elementary School (Bronx) with top honors and received a partial scholarship to Preston H.S. (Bronx). Olivia’s mom and dad encouraged her and her sister to attend Catholic schools because the both of them are graduates of Catholic schools and have done very well for themselves — even during these crazy times.” Br. Leonard Marsh, FSC ’63 officially retired in 2016 after teaching in high school and higher education (most recently at La Salle University in Philadelphia) for 48 years when diminishing enrollment curtailed the global language program at La Salle. “Since then I have been a guide at the Philadelphia Museum of Art and I continue my 30-year work on the Contact helpline and National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. The current pandemic has changed how we function in these activities, but I’ve become accustomed to change — given the changes experienced in the Church and the Christian Brothers with whom I have had the happiness of living in community for the last 57 years since graduation from Loughlin. I look forward to our 60th anniversary reunion.” Jim Smithwick ‘63 retired 15 years ago after spending 28 years with Poland Spring management in sales, distribution, and training. “I also spent six years active duty in the USAF and 16 years in the Air National Guard. Currently living on the North Fork of Long Island with the farmers, I am working on a project with John Klemm for recognition for Ty Pannell. I hope you will be hearing about the results of our efforts in the near future.” Colonel John A. Keenan USMC (Ret) ‘67 lives in Oceanside, CA (North San Diego County). “I keep busy with volunteer work and participation in numerous organizations including the Knights of Columbus, Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War, and the Friendly Sons of

St. Patrick. I love the weather here but you can’t get a decent pizza or bagel like in New York. As to finding a knish, fuggetboutit!” Francis X. Daniti ‘68 writes, “Remember that every journey is a new beginning. Perseverance will always help us through difficult times.” Thomas G. McCormick ‘69 sends in “Not so much an update but a few memories. It was wonderful celebrating our 50th with the guys last October. We didn’t miss a beat — so many great laughs. Some of the guys reminded me of when I ran the candy/ice cream store during lunch — I don’t need to say more. Those who know, know. Our track coach, Ed Bowes ‘60, threw me out of Business Law class because I missed a track practice. And, in front of my senior class he said ‘McCormick you are the captain of the track team and you cut practice.’ I said ‘yes I did.’ Not too smart. He told me to get out of the class and do a five- mile run, starting ‘now’. I also remember our senior play where Billy Kane dressed as a big girl. We still tell him he looked better then. Finally as I said at our reunion Mass, I am proud to be a Brothers Boy.” Charles J. Rappé ‘69 is currently doing research in neoplatonic philosophy, “which is my field. If interested, see some of my work at google.com: charles j. rappe/porphyry.” John Rowinski ‘69 is looking forward to celebrating the life and accomplishments of one of the greatest LIONS ever. “Let’s make the tribute to EJJB something to remember.” John Brandt ‘70 is disappointed “we could not gather for our 50th class reunion in 2020, but very much looking forward to seeing you all in 2021! Stay healthy!” Kevin Walsh ‘70 is enjoying retirement and is doing part-time limo work to get out of the house. “Things have been very slow since the pandemic — an airport run here and there and taking elders to the doctor. Anyone need a ride, I’m your guy! I attended Ed Bowes funeral at St. Patrick’s in Bay Ridge, hooked up with Fred Basso and John Klemm for lunch, and gave a quick hello to Bill Heaney. A very sad day in Loughlin history though it brought back many great memories!!” - con’t on next page

Clermont_USE.indd 31

12/23/20 1:52 PM

BISHOP LOUGHLIN con’t

Augie Catalano ‘73 is alive and well living in the Pacific Northwest. Kevin Bolger ‘75 retired in March after 36 years of service with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. He and his wife Debbie are staying in the Chicago area to be close to their children and grandchild. As soon as it is safe again, they plan to travel within the U.S., Canada, and Europe. Gary Maxwell ’80 reports “it only took 40 years and a pandemic to bring two best friends from high school together again! Three days after graduation, I ventured off to the Air Force. But before departing, I assured my best friend Kenny F. we’d stay in touch. Needless to say, back in the day, there was no email, texting, or video-chat capability. Thus, life got in the way of our keeping in touch. Over those decades (hard to imagine time going so fast), I’d think about him every so often and wonder how he was doing. As it turns out, he was doing the same. While he didn’t venture very far from his New York roots, I began a world-wide adventure. I spent 30 years in the military with countless adventures. It was a chance FaceBook post of his that reunited our friendship. However, before he would give me the time of day to catch up, he asked one question... what was ‘our’ hobby at Bishop Loughlin. I laughed! Needless to say, we are on track again!” Joseph Kisinski ‘81 says “this year has not been a very good one. My best friend from first grade contracted the coronavirus, was hospitalized, in a nursing home, and finally was able to go home. On January 11, 2020 my mom passed away from congestive heart failure; she was 83.” ◊

STAY IN TOUCH... contact us with your updated information or share noteworthy accomplishments and/or events! Submit news to Morgan Allison @ mallison@blmhs.org.

ST. AUGUSTINE HIGH SCHOOL

Paul Napoleon Moscatt ‘49 is a retired Art Professor. “I have been teaching plein-air sessions and painting with participants — fortunate to have an available pleasant garden to conduct these sessions. I am also assisting my daughter in conducting the fourth Baltimore Next Media Webfest, 2020. Elena Moscatt originated and has produced this webfest which has submissions nationwide and from 22 countries. This year the webfest is free and online (bnmwebfest.com).” Thomas E. Olszewski ‘54 has been a volunteer for the Franciscan Sisters of Holy Eucharist in Meriden, CT and at the Holy Apostle College and Seminary in Cromwell, CT for 11 years. “Married 51 years, I lost my wife ten years ago. I have six children; one died 20 years ago. I have ten grandchildren and one great-grandson. Last year, I received the spiritual service award from Bishop Cody and Father Mosey. A big hello to my 1954 classmates.” Paul Gale ‘55 is living well in Atlanta, GA. William P. Kinane ‘59 lives in Novato, California in Martin County (just north of San Francisco) and spends a significant part of the year in Sunriver, Oregon. “I have been married for more than 50 years and have three children and four grandchildren.” Ernie Villany ‘63 and his wife have relocated to Knoxville, TN to be closer to their daughter after 75 years in the New York area. “Come February she will be having my fifth grandson. A real blessing.” John Ross ‘64 is doing well in Virginia Beach, retired from the Army after 28 years. “Virginia Beach is kind of like Breezy Point but summer almost all year long. I have three healthy children — all married, and seven grandkids. Hope all are doing well and would love updates.” Michael O’Kane ‘66 relocated to Venice, Florida two years ago. “I hope my classmates are well and living the dream. Constant memories of Park Place. A special place and time. Hello John Loosen, Walter Kelly, and Tom Brown.” Michael P. Cangemi, CPA ‘66 writes “My thoughtful thanks to the Christian Brothers and staff of St. Augustine HS for a great foundation, morally and intellectually. Try to always be patient and nurturing to your students who lack engagement, especially those who do not have the benefit of adequate family guidance. My engagement began late with an economics class as a Junior, when at the same time a classmate brought the opportunity for a part-time job at Merrill Lynch on Wall Street. At graduation, I was listed as ‘not attending’ college, since my plan was to have success on Wall Street. With divine intervention, I did start college in September after graduation, while continuing to work part-time on Wall Street. This led to a fantastic career and a wonderful bountiful life. Thank You, Christian Brothers!” Gary F. Hansen ‘68 recalls “The year was 1966. I was a sophomore at St. Augustine HS when the Transport Workers Union and the Amalgamated Transit Union called a strike in NYC. This caused a shutdown of all subways and bus routes in the city. As a student, I was left on my own to find transportation to school. St. Augustine tried at first to hold classes but attendance was minimal and sporadic. A call-in program was developed, with time limits on turning in your assignments. Even then you had to find a way to the school. Taxis were allowed to carry more than one passenger, but that was expensive. Thumbing A RIDE WAS YOUR BEST OPTION AS LONG AS THEY WERE GOING IN YOUR DIRECTION! This caused numerous

Clermont_USE.indd 32

12/23/20 1:52 PM

problems for Mayor Lindsay since traffic was already at a standstill. Eventually the strike was settled and Mike Quill, head of the strikers union, was jailed and died weeks later. The strike led to the passage of the Taylor Law but for a young kid it was an unforgettable experience.” Louis P. Valentino ‘69 reports “All is well with me! Lou G., Stephen, and I have kept in touch meeting for lunch at L&B from time to time.” Ed Stack ’69 is enjoying retirement and spending time with his three grandchildren, ages two, three, and five. “Our second home outside Hilton Head, SC has provided a much needed refuge in this pandemic year. Really enjoyed seeing my St. Augustine classmates at last year’s 50th anniversary celebration. I am looking forward to reconnecting in 2021 when we get this coronavirus behind us. St. John Baptist De La Salle, pray for us. Live Jesus in our hearts. Forever.” Stephen Giordano ‘69 lives in Easton, PA with his wife of 41 years, Rosemarie. “I am still working though on disability from having a kidney transplant (Rosemarie was my living donor). The original 1969 class reunion committee met this past January to open discussions for future alumni gatherings. Two suggestions were tabled: an alumni dinner and possibly a long weekend getaway, including alumni guests. The pandemic outbreak has put on pause any future in-person gatherings. Several of us have met at Brooklyn’s Spumoni Gardens (still the place to go) — Lou Gambino, Tom Monahan, Lou Valentino, Jack Occhigrosso, and Vinny Passion, from the class of 1968. Rich Faga and Dough DeFaux have reached out to the committee to assist in coordinating a virtual video session. Forty alumni have accepted the invitation (details are being worked on). We are waiting to hear back from 35 alumni. If anyone has questions or suggestions, my contact email is stephengiordano@hotmail. com and my phone number is 484-5442009.” ◊

LANCERS: THE BROTHERS BOYS, WHO ARE THEY? by Ed Smith ‘62 M Squad Chief (Brother A. Peter Walsh, Moderator) Retired Partner ı Peat, Marwick, Mitchell ı Retired Major USMC ı Adjunct Professor, St. John’s University ı Husband, father — soon to be grandfather Forever Lancer and Brothers Boy

hey came from all corners of Brooklyn — Flatbush, Bay Ridge, Park Slope, Sheepshead Bay, Coney Island, Gravesend, Bensonhurst, Boro Park, Sunset Park, Fort Hamilton, Crown Heights, Flatlands, Marine Park, Brooklyn Heights, Clinton Hill, South Brooklyn, and Red Hook. No, not a recent class of draftees lined up at the Whitehall Street induction center but students at St. Augustine Diocesan High School at 64 Park Place in Park Slope. They were Lancers, after the school mascot a knight on a horse, who were embarking on a life changing adventure.

The school has a storied history and holds a sweet spot in the hearts of the boys who attended. “The Brothers Boys”, so called because of the Christian Brothers who conducted the school for nearly 60 years until it closed in 1969. We were drawn to Augustine, or rather in many cases directed to attend, by our parents since the school was relatively tuition-free. Today, there are no regrets about that decision. St. Augustine began as a parish high school for St. Augustine’s Roman Catholic Church on Sixth Avenue and Sterling Place. You will all recall that in those days Brooklyn was known as the “Borough of Churches”. Seemed the number of churches were only exceeded by the number of “gin mills” in the neighborhoods of Brooklyn. For all of us, growing up in Brooklyn in the 50s and 60s was an experience like no other. We had the Brooklyn Eagle, the Brooklyn Dodgers, The Brooklyn Navy Yard, Todd Shipyard, the docks and their longshoreman, The Rheingold Brewery, Domino Sugar Plant, White Rock Beverage, and many other factories and industrial facilities. Brooklyn was home to numerous immigrant groups and each neighborhood bore distinct ethnic personalities, as did their churches. We had our shared Brooklyn accent and a strong sense of who we were. Lancers had no fear. They roamed New York as if we owned it. We were the sons of many WW II veterans, growing up in simpler times as America boomed after the war. Television was our high tech. Everyone can recall Brooklyn’s unique character. We all remember how it was common to ask someone; “what parish are you from?” as a way of fixing their neighborhood and who they were. For many of us, we continue to do this when we meet someone with Brooklyn roots.

- con’t on next page 33

Clermont_USE.indd 33

12/23/20 1:52 PM

In 1909, the Brothers of Christian Schools began running St. Augustine at the request of the Brooklyn Diocese’s Archbishop Molloy. The Brothers, an order of teachers, were founded by St. John Baptist De La Salle in France. Bishop John Loughlin, Brooklyn’s first Bishop, invited the Brothers to conduct a school for boys in Brooklyn. Initially they set up in St. James (later renamed Bishop Loughlin Memorial High School). Bishop Loughlin led an initiative to educate the children of immigrants and wanted to instill a strong culture of faith, morals, hard work, and citizenship to ensure that his flock assimilated and contributed to life in America. Today, we can report “mission accomplished”.

immigrant destination. No one would consider themselves rich or poor. We were all close in economic status. Families that owned their own homes might have been considered better off. Our families were primarily working class, laborers, cops, firemen, teachers, a few professionals, and a few had college grads as a parent. Our ethnic heritage was often on display in cafeteria as we brought our lunch from home. Variety was not necessarily a quality of our own individual lunch so we often shared or traded lunches to get a new taste. Although, the Italian guys always seemed to have the most in-demand lunches.

As we arrived at St. Augustine’s, more daunting than meeting new classmates was But what of St. meeting the Brothers St. Augustine’s Class of 1962 members Jim McHugh, John Clarke, Carl Crownover, and Ed Smith. Augustine and for the first time. For the Brothers Boys? many of us who were Unfortunately with the school’s closing in 1969, the pipeline for taught by nuns in grammar school, meeting an all-male faculty new Lancer alumni ceased. Our alumni are spread principally led by the Brothers was not easy for a prepubescent freshman. throughout the northeast but in many other parts of the United We were filled with awe, wonder, and fear. Many of the Brothers States. I can even report that in 1981 while in Japan, I met an boasted of their experience at Lincoln Hall, we supposed a type alum who lived in Tokyo — Murphy was his name. Apparently, he of reform school that the Brothers operated. was part of the occupation forces and never left. Students had to adjust to this male environment and changing Lancers have distinguished themselves in public service, classrooms on a precise schedule with different teachers and education, science, arts, legal, law enforcement, fire prevention, personalities. This required personal discipline and adjustment. and business. Sports were also a key part of the education Once you managed this, it was liberating to experience that curriculum, albeit mainly basketball and track. A few times in freedom of movement and individual responsibility coupled with its history Augustine boasted baseball and swimming as varsity the chaos and banter of the hallways and stairs as all four grades sports. Several Lancers entered the religious life as priests or hustled about. There were around 400 students at Augustine, brothers. Lancers can count in their ranks a former governor of and it seemed you knew them all. New York State, university presidents, lawyers, judges, a former New Jersey Nets guard, a Chaplin for the Mets, and U.S. military We all remember Brother Azarias Peter (Walsh), a ruddy academy graduates — who held all ranks in the Army, Navy, Irishman with calloused hands who could have easily passed Marine Corps, Air Force, and Coast Guard. There have been many for a longshoreman. He was referred to as Brother Willie or veterans of world wars, Korea, and Vietnam. One Lancer is a Wille Peter, always out of ear shot, because of his habit to surviving Vietnam war POW. Each of us are proof that we learned call someone Willie to catch their attention, usually for doing our lessons well and lived up to the Brothers’ expectations and something that required attention, or he disapproved of. I recall Bishop Loughlin’s plan. in early 2000 visiting Brother at LaSalle Hall in Lincroft, New Jersey and thanking him for what the Brothers and St. Augustine But what of these men — who are they, what did the learn, what had done for me — the education, guidance, and growth. Brother do they think, how have they lived life? Peter wanted no credit, instead he kept telling me to thank my parents for having the foresight to send me to St. Augustine. We can look at the class of 1962 (my class) and others in the 60s as Augustine neared its final gradation in 1969. The Our class began with about 170 students and finished with 130. students came to Augustine from varied family backgrounds We continue to meet, tell many of the same stories, and just and ethnicities, truly a microcosm of New York’s melting pot and enjoy the friendship forged nearly sixty years ago. There is a 34

Clermont_USE.indd 34

12/23/20 1:52 PM

remarkable bond between us that was molded and nourished by the Brothers and our personal moral core which the Brothers helped nourish. Many Lancers use the same expressions to describe their time at St. Augustine: disciplined, formative, lifechanging, enriching, good fun, morally and spiritually uplifting, interesting, stimulating, civic minded, and satisfying memories and fondness for fellow students and Brothers. But most of all, it is always about the Brothers and the guys — and the personal bond with each other and the Brothers. This grip is hard to explain, except to a fellow Lancer. When you read the bios for many in our class, giving back is a common theme. Many have developed a strong sense of civic responsibility and have served on boards for charities and nonprofit health and welfare institutions or volunteered at many of these institutions and in their churches. Many of us continue to volunteer even at this stage in our lives. But then what was it like inside the school? Days seemed long but managed to go by quickly, especially if you engaged in after school activities. Unfortunately, for a few, this was not always possible as some had to help at home with a family business or hold down a part time job. As one alum put it, we were taught to be good and honest men. Not to say we did not have time to be boys. One thing the Brothers practiced was to give us rope and room to run, jump, and play — while not holding the reigns tightly. You can only imagine the horse play going on in an all-boys school in the 60s, all good fun and never any bullying. We enjoyed each other — the interaction, the ribbing, and the competition. We had each other’s back. Never let a Loughlinite, or Prep-Guy, be it Brooklyn, St. John’s, or St. Francis pick on a Lancer because we were all there. We were all thankful for the freedom and guidance. The Brothers helped create a sense of security that let us know we were amongst friends and that the Brothers were always there, watching and guiding us. This was essentially covert as you often did not see them but felt their presence. We may not have realized or appreciated all this at the time, its mainly now when we are older and leading the lives of solid citizens, good Catholic men, husbands and fathers, or even grandfathers, do we realize and appreciate what we had at St. Augustine and the gift the Brothers gave us, including their gift of time and their lives. At a 1962 class dinner at Circles Restaurant in Windsor Terrace, Brooklyn (Holy Name Parish if you must ask), we recall Brother Jerome (Corrigan) making a few remarks about St. Augustine’s and his time there as Assistant Principal and basketball coach. He thanked us for being who we are, continuing to get together, and including him. He was having a good time. He said that seeing us and enjoying our company as men helped “validate his life”. A remarkable statement that created a “grace filled moment”. Another such moment came at the first combined Augustine reunion held at Bishop Loughlin in November 2001, not long after

We were taught to be good and honest men. Not to say we did not have time to be boys. One thing the Brothers practiced was to give us rope and room to run, jump, and play — while not holding the reigns tightly. 9-11. Seeing the large group of guys, remembering our school and classmates, feeling the sadness of 9-11 and participating in a mass con-celebrated by twelve priests — all graduates of St. Augustine — was very moving. It made me proud to be a Lancer, a Catholic and in Brooklyn. It felt right, and was grace filled. I could feel the warmth, friendship, and God’s presence. It was such a wonderful afternoon and evening that none wanted to go home. We are thankful for the opportunity and blessings of those four years. The experience had a great deal to do with who we are, what we believe and how we live our lives. We share the memories of basketball games at the old Madison Square Garden on Eighth Avenue, Field Days at Red Hook Stadium, bowling at the Union Street bowling alley, track meets at Van Cortland Park, practices at the Bedford Avenue Armory, intramural softball games at the 4th avenue park with only black top for a playing field, the intramural basketball games in the basement gym where a jump shot had as good a chance of hitting the ceiling as it did the rim, commuting to school by train or bus with a small band of school mates, the annual Rye Beach Boat Rides with “our sister school” Catherine McAuley HS, the “Tea” dances in the afternoon in our auditorium, parish dances throughout the diocese, and even a plane crash on Seventh Avenue that narrowly missed the school. All the things that made being a teenager growing up in Brooklyn in the 60s memorable. The depth of feeling of the shared experiences and memories uniquely and entirely Catholic, help explain the unbreakable hold that St. Augustine has on this group of men, Lancers and Brothers’ Boys all. One such experience is daily prayer, we can all in almost perfect unison still recall those that started and ended our days and made a Christin Brother school a Christina Brother School: St. John Baptist de la Salle. (yes, you supply the answer) Live Jesus in Our hearts. (one more time guys) God bless my fellow Lancers; it has been my honor and pleasure to share this reflection with you. ◊ 35

Clermont_USE.indd 35

12/23/20 1:52 PM

2020

LION LANCER GOLF OUTING 4

From left to right, (1) John White and Alan White. (2) Dennis Clare ’71, Ed McNoble ’71, and Bill Heaney ’71. (3) Steve Wilson. (4) Paul Tapogna ’65, Tony Yodice ’65, Jim Bono ’65, and Jon Verdun ’65. (5) Gerard Kuzniewski ’64, Dan Quinn, Ed Zazzarino ’70, and Jim Quinn ’64. (6) Veronica and Pat Mallozzi. (7) John Zarzicki ’63, Henry Zarzicki ’60, and Jeff Albies ’63. (8) Steve and Kathleen Johnston.

lmost $50,000 was raised in September at the 24th annual Lion Lancer Golf Outing, held in October. The tourney supports scholarship for the young men and women who attend Loughlin. Golfers overcame both a gloomy forecast and a pandemic to be with us.

More than 80 golfers, family, and friends joined us at Inwood Country Club in Inwood, NY.

Congratulations to winners Dom Camera ’60 ($5,000), Alfred Cavuto ’63 ($2,000), and George Molaro ’57 ($1,000).

In addition, several hundred alumni (Loughlin, Lancers and Bishop McDonnell) and friends took part in the Bro. James Aurelius Raffle Prize drawing.

We are very grateful to our sponsors, golfers, volunteers, and friends who made the event a success. ◊

Clermont_USE.indd 36

12/23/20 1:52 PM

REUNIONS TWO REUNIONS PLANNED FOR 2021!

lumni reunions are a treasured event for the entire Loughlin community. For the first time in recent memory, Loughlin was forced to cancel the annual fall reunions because of the pandemic. We missed seeing proud alumni from 1950 (and earlier!), 1955, 1960, 1965, 1970, 1975, 1980, 1985, 1990,1995, 2000, 2005, 2010, and 2015.

OCTOBER 2021 will bring two reunion gatherings to Loughlin: Saturday, October 2 for all classes ending in “0” or “5” and Saturday, October 16 for all classes ending in “1” or “6” Please be sure to mark your calendars and check your emails regularly for updates and important information coming from the Oﬃce of Institutional Advancement.

CLASSES GATHERED TOGETHER DURING THE PANDEMIC On October 24, approximately 50 members of the Class of 1990 (celebrating their 30th Anniversary!) met virtually with the help of Class Coordinators Darlene Cumberbatch and Michelle Greene. Through their engineering and planning, graduates from all over the world — even as far away as Hawaii, were able to participate in the meeting! As the end of the initial “meeting” was drawing near, Robin Huger used her account and sent another link to extend their time together! They talked, laughed, and reminisced about the good ol’ days into the wee of the morning! With several toasts being made throughout the evening, Reverend Kimberly Council closed the meeting with prayer. A second virtual “meeting” for the Class of 1990 was held December 12. Connect with their Facebook and Instagram pages to learn more.

The Class of 2000 also held a virtual gathering on October 17. Coordinators Jenina Nunez, Deyka Ortiz, Angel Lopez, and Keefe Clark organized the group of graduates where the members of the Small Band sang. There was an attempt at the school song and a special appearance by Mr. Mike Foley! “Not bad for a bunch of 38-year-olds!” Ms. Nunez, Class Coordinator, is currently working on scheduling a second virtual meeting and connecting with more classmates!

Class of 2 000

Zoom reun ion!

What a fantastic way to reconnect! If your Class Coordinators are getting you involved, engaged, and connected we’d love to hear all about it! ◊

STAY CONNECTED!

Contact Josephine (Santos) McKenna ‘90, Associate Director, Institutional Advancement, at jmckenna@ blmhs.org with information on how your class is staying connected.

Clermont_USE.indd 37

12/23/20 1:52 PM

IN MEMORIAM REMEMBERING A LOUGHLIN LEGEND 1940s

John O’Sullivan ‘42 SA Lawrence Schmidt ‘42 Victor Corrado ‘43 Robert Harrington ‘43 SA Walter O’Loan ‘43 Charles Quinn ‘43 James Greeley ‘44 Eugene Dieringer ‘45 William Doody ‘45 James McAuliﬀe ‘46 Daniel Sullivan ‘46 Robert Williamson ‘46 William Weithas ‘47 Peter Daniels ‘48 Eugene Dunn ‘48 John Doyle ‘49 Francis Hilovsky ‘49 J. Kenneth Seward ‘49

JAMES HARRINGTON ’47

1950s

John Boland ‘50 Edward Lockley ‘50 John Newell ‘50 Albert Nittoly ‘51 James Mack ‘53 Joseph Peters ‘54 John Roth ‘54 John Jordan ‘55 Martin Morris ‘55 Lawrence Waterhouse ‘55 Patrick Nolan ‘56 John Mason ‘57 John Milewski ‘57 John O’Connor ‘57 SA Perren Page ‘57 Richard Oehler ‘58 SA Thomas Gorman ‘59

1960s

Ed Bowes ‘60 John Kraus ‘60 James Mitchell ‘60 William Murphy ‘60 SA Thomas Schnatz ‘61 Philip Smith ‘61 Anthony Brienza ‘62 SA Donald Lerario ‘62 Nicholas Vlatys ‘62 SA Peter McNerney ‘63 Lewis Wade ‘63 SA Paul Townsend ‘65 James Flanagan ‘67 Joseph Greco ‘69

1970s

Joseph Affatato ‘70 Julio Fernandez ‘70 William Modzelewski ‘70 John Modafferi ‘71 Donald Reddy ‘71 Willette Roberson ‘79 If we have missed any alumni in this list, please contact Tiffany Livingstone at tlivingstone@blmhs.org.

Jim Harrington ’47 with Martha Parry ’54 (BMD).

Bishop Loughlin was saddened to learn that James Harrington ‘47 died on November 19, 2020. Jim was a NYC, CHSAA, Manhattan College, and Loughlin track and field legend. Loughlin is grateful for the many ways he participated in events even through his 80s and into his 90s — he played in the Lion Lancer Golf Outing at 88. He also returned for annual reunions. His love for Loughlin never wavered. A member of the Justinian Society at Loughlin, Jim was a longtime class leader and supporter of his alma mater. As a student-athlete at Loughlin, Jim was known to teammates as “Bones” for his lanky frame. He won two CHSAA gold medals in the pole vault (setting outdoor meet records in 1946 and 1947) and one gold medal each in javelin and the 120-high hurdles. He won two pole vault and a high hurdles championships in the Private Schools Invitational in 1946 and 1947. Jim was also a member of the national title winning 1945 team and was co-captain for the 1946 -1947 squad. Continuing at Manhattan College, he helped the Jaspers win many titles. Among his many accomplishments, he was a National Junior AAU Indoor Champion (Hurdles and Medley Relay) as well as Jasper team captain. Jim was long ago inducted into the Hall of Fame at both Loughlin and Manhattan College. It is no surprise that Jim went on to become a highly successful and respected coach. We will miss Jim dearly but know he is smiling down on his alma mater. ◊

Clermont_USE.indd 38

12/23/20 1:52 PM

PLEASE SUPPORT OUR 2020 - 2021 ANNUAL FUND It has never been more important to support Loughlin and the families we proudly serve.

YOUR GIFT MATTERS. Your gift will directly impact our ability to provide scholarship and financial aid.

loughlin.org/giving

THANK YOU! loughlin.org

Clermont_USE.indd 39

12/23/20 1:52 PM

Bishop Loughlin Memorial High School 357 Clermont Avenue Brooklyn, New York 11238

Clermont_USE.indd 40

12/23/20 1:52 PM