WINTER/SPRING 2019
BISHOP LOUGHLIN ı ST. AUGUSTINE ı BISHOP McDONNELL HIGH SCHOOLS
PLTW HONORS SENIORS IN A WHITE COAT CEREMONY
OUR CAMPUS MINISTRY DEPARTMENT
2018 BISHOP LOUGHLIN and ST. AUGUSTINE REUNIONS
CLERMONT WINTER/SPRING 2019
IN THIS ISSUE
Administration Brother Dennis Cronin, FSC ı President Edward A. Bolan ’78 ı Principal Cecila Gottsegen ı Assistant Principal Nicole Freeman ’95 ı Dean of Students Luis Montes ı Dean of Students
Board of Governors ı 2018 - 2019
Thomas F. Van Buskirk, St. Augustine ’70 ı Chair Mary T. Macchiarola, Bishop McDonnell ’58 ı Vice Chair Thomas J. McLaughlin ’72 ı Secretary Brother Robert R. Bimonte, FSC C. Christopher Cannon ’65 Frank K. Cheswick ’66 Brother Dennis Cronin, FSC, President — ex officio Ja’von T. Delgado ’01 (Jones) Robert A. McRae ’03 Rev. Joseph A. Nugent Joseph F. Perez ’70 Lenue H. Singletary ’87 Pamela M. Sloan, Esq., Bishop McDonnell ’73 Brother Robert J. Wickman, FSC
Department of Development & Alumni Relations John E. Klemm ’65 ı Director of Development
@ LOUGHLIN
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From the President Campus Ministry and Service @ Loughlin Social Studies Department Assemblies Student Spotlight — Julian Forbes ’19 Senior Pin Day PLTW White Coat Ceremony Loughlin Students attends Arthur Ashe Institute for Urban Health 2018 Loughlin Council Luncheon
IN SPORTS
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Basketball Spotlight — Julian Champagnie ’19 Girls Track & Field
Andrew Leary ı Planned Giving and Campaign Director Morgan Allison ı Development and Alumni Events Coordinator Joan Hotaling-Cramer ı Gifts & Data Entry Coordinator
ALUMNI NEWS
Design
EP Graphic Design ı Manchester, CT The Clermont is published by the Bishop Loughlin Memorial High School Development Office. Please send correspondence and address changes to: Bishop Loughlin Memorial High School Development Office 357 Clermont Avenue ı Brooklyn, NY 11238 or jcramer@blmhs.org
Visit our website at loughlin.org Find us on Facebook @Bishop Loughlin Memorial High School @loughlinlions Follow us on Twitter @Loughlinlions
Cover Photo by Tony Correa
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2018 Lion/Lancer Open Golf Outing Bishop Loughlin Athletic Hall of Fame 2019 Bishop Loughlin Athletic Hall of Fame Loughlin Games are Alive and Well Alumni Spotlight — James Orenga ’58 Alumni Spotlight — Isaiah Pooler ’17
SCHOOL REUNIONS
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Bishop Loughlin Memorial High School St. Augustine High School St. Augustine Sports Champions
Dear Friend of Loughlin, This issue of the Clermont covers topics ranging from alumni events and athletic updates to what’s happening in the school. You’ll be able to view or read pieces from alums, faculty past and present, as well as current students. It should make for an interesting read reflecting the breadth of our school community.
Loughlin stands tall in the heart of Brooklyn, with renovations just about finished. While Loughlin looks better than ever, it is a Pride of Lions grounded in the motto of our Lasallian youth group — Faith, Service, Community. We are proud of our faith tradition
FROM THE
PRESIDENT
and all we accomplish in its name. You will read about some of the ways we have served. You will also see how one Loughlin alum continues to serve.
For many, Loughlin was a gateway to success fueled by a challenging academic environment bringing out the best. Our school continues to bring out the best in its students in the
WHILE LOUGHLIN LOOKS BETTER THAN EVER, IT IS A PRIDE OF LIONS GROUNDED IN THE MOTTO OF OUR LASALLIAN YOUTH GROUP — FAITH, SERVICE, COMMUNITY. WE ARE PROUD OF OUR FAITH TRADITION AND ALL WE ACCOMPLISH IN ITS NAME.
curricular opportunities it offers and through the groups with which we partner. One is highlighted — The Arthur Ashe Health Science Academy at Downstate. The goal of the program is to increase minority representation in the medical professions. In house, students who participated in the relatively new PLTW Biomedical Science program were recognized for their achievement in Loughlin’s first White Coat Ceremony.
As I write this letter, it is a Friday afternoon and a group of students are on their way to a Leadership Retreat Weekend led by Seniors. Loughlin’s tagline reads “Educating Leaders Since 1851”. I hope you, like me, find cause for hope and enthusiasm in being faithful to what we are called to do. You make it possible. Live Jesus in our hearts. Forever. Sincerely,
Br. Dennis Cronin, FSC ı President
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@LOUGHLIN
Emerging Loughlin Seniors during their service trip to Puerto Rico in Summer 2018. From left, Simone John, Marcus Colon, Ms. Jennifer Baduy, Richard Baker, Britney Fulton, Michael Perez. Back, from left, Cynthia Douge, Mr. Michael Foley, and Jiaqi Liu.
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OUR CAMPUS MINISTRY DEPARTMENT WORKING TO MAKE COMMUNITY SERVICE A PRIORITY FOR ALL
THE CAMPUS MINISTRY OFFICE, LOCATED IN THE BACK OF THE STUDENT CAFETERIA, IS OPEN ALL DAY LONG AS A PLACE WHERE STUDENTS CAN COME TO ENJOY SOCIAL TIME WITH FRIENDS, STUDY FOR UPCOMING TESTS, OR SIMPLY HAVE SOME QUIET TIME.
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ollowing in the footsteps of the founder of the Institute, St. John Baptist de La Salle, Campus Ministry challenges our students to improve their understanding of faith, community, and service every day. Building a caring, faith-filled, and loving community is critical to the mission of Campus Ministry. The department offers many opportunities for this to happen.
Loughlinites can be found in the school library, in nursing homes, in elementary schools, and in soup kitchens, making a difference in the lives of community members.
CREATING COMMUNITY The Campus Ministry office, located in the back of the student cafeteria, is open all day as a place where students can come to enjoy social time with friends, study for upcoming tests, or simply have some quiet time.
Outside of Loughlin, students help in a variety of ways. Raking leaves and planting trees at Fort Greene Park teaches students the importance of taking care of our environment. At the Food Bank of New Jersey, our students help pack thousands of meals for low-income families who would not survive without them. The Loughlin Lasallian Youth Group is always ready to serve others during the holidays. They volunteer at the Prospect Park Halloween Fair helping children with costumes and facepainting, and by dressing as ghosts and ghouls for the Scary Halloween “Walk through the Woods”. During Thanksgiving season, Loughlin students can be found working in Harlem with “Street Gourmet” — an organization that serves the hungry and homeless. Meal preparation begins on Wednesday, and students and work through the night to help feed hundreds of people on Thanksgiving Day. Although exhausted, students are deeply enriched by this special opportunity to serve as Jesus did.
Students sit in a circle and discuss a topic of interest every Tuesday during “Talk It Out Tuesday”. This serves as a way for students to build bonds as they share and listen to each other. On Thursday mornings, our Lasallian Youth Group meets to build community through ice-breakers and discussions. Also on Thursdays, we dim the lights for “Theatre Thursday”. Movies and short films are shown during the lunch periods and theater-style hot, buttered popcorn is served. The Lasallian Youth leaders also organize community building activities such as roller-skating trips, movie trips, and game days. We celebrate the newest members of our community every Friday with “Freshman Friday”. During freshman lunch, only freshmen are permitted to enter the Campus Ministry office, where they find snacks and games awaiting them. LITURGY AND PRAYER School-wide Masses are celebrated throughout the year at the close-by Queen of All Saints Roman Catholic Church. Our own beautiful chapel is used for prayer services, often created entirely by our Lasallian Youth. In early November, the Campus Ministry and the Languages Other than English departments work together for the Dia de los Muertos/All Souls prayer service. Students create artwork and written pieces commemorating those they have lost. During the season of Advent, horns can be heard in the first-floor corridor playing O Come, O Come, Emmanuel as students gather to pray in preparation for the birth of our Savior. COMMUNITY SERVICE All year, students are given the opportunity to serve — in our school, in our neighborhood, and throughout the world
In school, the after-school Homework Center, located in the library, is a place where students can help other students who are struggling academically.
A favorite service project is our trip to Manhattan for “Random Acts of Kindness”. Students make sandwiches and fill lunch bags (decorated with colorful pictures and inspirational messages) with a sandwich, a water bottle, and a piece of fruit. During “Random Acts”, students can be seen holding doors, helping to carry strollers up subway stairs, and offering food to the hungry. At the conclusion of the event, students gather to share their feelings about the event and to pray for the less fortunate. Our students truly shine at the annual Brooklyn Hospital holiday party for the Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Unit. The gathering offers an opportunity for our students to spend time with the patients, celebrating the Christmas season with food, games, and of course a visit from Santa. Summer vacation also provides an opportunity for our students to serve beyond our home in Brooklyn. For the past 22 years, Loughlin has sent student representatives to the annual Lasallian Youth Summer Assembly, a gathering of students from Lasallian schools located throughout the east coast. The LYSA has taken place in Philadelphia, Syracuse, Pittsburgh, Albany, and many other places. Our students love these trips because they serve
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Lasallian Youth spends the day cleaning local Fort Greene Park.
with students from many different places — all sharing the same Lasallian values. Bishop Loughlin also offers the opportunity for special service trips. This past summer, Loughlinites traveled to Puerto Rico to assist after the devastating hurricanes of the previous year. Spanish teacher Jennifer Baduy, Jeannie Guzman ’06, Campus Minister Mike Foley, and a group of juniors volunteered with World Central Kitchen (a non-profit organization that “uses the power of food to empower communities and strengthen economies”) to cook and deliver food to families that lost their homes during the hurricanes (see page 7 for a student’s perspective of this trip). The Twinning Program of the Lasallian Schools pairs schools in the United States with schools in Africa. For the past 20 years, Bishop Loughlin has been twinned with St. Mary’s Boys Secondary School in Nyeri, Kenya. The students who attend St. Mary’s come from extremely low-income families. Loughlin students and faculty donate money to St. Mary’s to help with tuition, food, and school supplies. Loughlin leads all schools in twinning donations, contributing between $15,000 and $20,000 annually. Some of the fundraisers for St. Mary’s include out-of-uniform days, basketball shooting competitions, bake 6
FOLLOWING IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF ST. JOHN BAPTIST DE LA SALLE, STUDENTS ASPIRE TO IMPROVE THEIR UNDERSTANDING OF FAITH, COMMUNITY, AND SERVICE EVERY DAY AT LOUGHLIN. sales, and the Lenten “Race for Change”. Many Loughlin students do not have great financial resources, yet they are willing to generously donate to help others. This spirit of selfless giving is what Loughlin is truly all about. RETREATS If you say the word “Goshen” to most any Loughlin alum, a smile will quickly emerge. Some of our students’ best memories take place at The Empowerment Center in Goshen, New York — the site of the spiritually
powerful Loughlin weekend retreats. The retreat house is surrounded by green fields, a beautiful pond, and a babbling brook. But the real beauty takes place inside the Empowerment Center. Upon entering, one immediately feels the warmth of home. Students are given the opportunity to consider who they are, to reflect upon where they have come from, and to discover how they are being called by God. Through ice-breakers, team-building exercises, witness talks, and small group discussions, students form deep bonds with one another, while exploring their relationship with God. The retreat experience is intense, meaningful, and unforgettable. Once again, the word “family” comes to mind when Loughlin students and alums think of our amazing retreat program. FAITH, SERVICE, AND COMMUNITY Faith, Service, and Community — these are more than just words at Bishop Loughlin. They are the building blocks to creating true Christian leaders who, like Christ, are willing to put others before themselves in the hope of creating a better world. The goal of Campus Ministry and Lasallian Youth at Bishop Loughlin is to educate and nurture our young leaders so that every one of them will truly “enter to learn, and leave to serve”.
LASALLIAN YOUTH SERVICE TRIP TO PUERTO RICO by Marcus Colon ’19
From left, Britney Fulton, Jiaqi Liu, and Cythia Douge, helping prepare meals during the service trip. Right, Senior Jiaqi Liu is helping take care of the crops that are used by World Central Kitchen, which helps provide food for people in need.
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n the summer of 2018, I participated in the five-day service trip to Puerto Rico to aid those suffering the effects of Hurricane Maria. Hurricane Maria hit the island of Puerto Rico in September 2017, causing damage to the entire island and killing nearly 3,000 people. The citizens of Puerto Rico didn’t receive much help from the U.S. government, but did receive help from the citizens of the United States, as well as many world-wide organizations. Our group volunteered with one such organization, World Central Kitchen. The goal was to make meals for those who couldn’t afford food. This kitchen sent out thousands of meals a week for those in need. One job was ‘cutting-up’. We sliced tomatoes, peppers, onions, eggplant, celery, potatoes, meats, and much more. After that, three or four giant pots cooked the cut-up vegetables, meat, and rice — the chefs even allowed some of us to cook. The cooked and packaged food was then delivered to communities around the island. We worked in the kitchen for four or more hours a day for three of the five days we were in Puerto Rico. We worked alongside people who came from New York like us, people from other parts of the United States, and people from the island of Puerto Rico. Enhancing the experience was coming to know the other volunteers and working together with them to do as much as we could each day. The work was tiring, but worth it, knowing that it was for a good cause. One day we volunteered at the farm that supplied the food used by World Central Kitchen. The farm was (sort of) in the mountains. We pulled weeds, planted, and harvested. The vegetables that we harvested were washed and delivered to World Central Kitchen the next day. Personally, my working at the farm wasn’t as much fun as working in the kitchen. It rained heavily one minute and then returned to a hot scorching sun the next minute. Standing in the sun and dealing with the small bugs in the soil was worth it, but not fun. We got a lot done in those hours. While driving to and from the farm (two or so hours from where we stayed), we were able to see the devastating effects of the storm on parts of the island.
On the last day of working in the kitchen we packed and helped deliver food to various communities. One community we visited and distributed food to, about 40 minutes from the kitchen, was hit especially hard by the hurricane. We went from house to house asking families if they wanted food. Not one family denied our offer. Many houses were damaged and some were completely gone. Although damaged, many people still lived in their homes because they explained that leaving would be harder. These families were trying to make the best out of what they had, since they were not getting the help they needed. As someone from Puerto Rico, delivering food and talking to people made me happy, and touched me. It hurts to see people struggling to get food they need to stay alive, especially when it’s people from your own country! At night, we stayed at a school, we had group discussions about our experiences, a movie night, a barbeque, and we played games. The goal of this trip was to help, but since we were in Puerto Rico, we had to take advantage of the beautiful weather and beautiful places. We visited two beaches, some restaurants, a waterfall, and walked around Old San Juan. Going on that trip helped me realize that I need to be grateful for what I have. There were people on the island who had nothing. Puerto Rico took a hard hit, but I know they will come back from this. The best part of the trip — our group efforts made a difference for people. Their smiles put smiles on our faces. This will always be a trip to be remembered; I did and learned a lot. All the work makes me proud, knowing that I helped people doing God’s mission. I’m glad that people like our group are helping people of Puerto Rico.
Senior Marcus Colon is vice-president of this year’s Lasallian Youth Group, is one of the executives of the house system, and is involved in the Latino Dance Group. 7
@LOUGHLIN SOCIAL STUDIES
NATIVE AMERICAN & HISPANIC CULTURE ASSEMBLY by Thomas Callahan ı Social Studies teacher
mine, Luis “Sanakori” Ramos, spoke on both cultures. Mr. Ramos is of Puerto Rican and Taino descent. The Taino people were the first indigenous people that Christopher Columbus encountered when he arrived in the Caribbean. Many people believed the Taino tribe was exterminated by Columbus and his crew. Mr. Ramos is a strong advocate of teaching the Taino culture — and there are people of Hispanic heritage who might also be of Taino ancestry. He travels around New York and also attends Pow Wows with his NYC Indigenous Mobile Library and Traveling Urban Cultural Center, where he displays books and artifacts and answers questions people have regarding his culture. Mr. Ramos, dressed in Native American clothing and using a PowerPoint presentation, spoke about the history of the Taino people, making connections to the students’ own backgrounds. He discussed myths concerning the extinction of the Taino peoples and explained that, as a result of a study conducted by National Geographic and published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, these beliefs were proven incorrect. The researchers concluded that the DNA of pre-Columbus Indigenous populations is found in living people in the Caribbean; the closest genetically being the people of Puerto Rico (Boriken in Taino). Mr. Ramos spoke about famous Native Americans, such as the Navajo Code Talkers, and those who, as a whole, we are his fall, the Social Studies Department not aware of. sponsored a Native American and Hispanic Culture assembly. There He next turned his attention to the were two separate assemblies so as many issue of cultural appropriation of the students, faculty, administration, and forgotten people. He showed images from staff could attend the informative and advertisements such as a fashion magazine interactive presentation. with a model wearing a Native American headdress, asking the question, “Dead A friend and former college classmate of culture or exploitation?” He demonstrated
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the concept of cultural diffusion when he played a video of a young Taino man dressed in native clothing; however, the man was not singing a native song but rapping and DJing in the Taino language. The students found this very fascinating, realizing that people from other cultures were more similar to them than they realized. We were not finished with the music as Mr. Ramos asked for volunteers to play authentic Native American instruments and participate in the Taino Snake Dance. After some quick instruction from Mr. Ramos, the students began playing the instruments and keeping the beat for the dancers. Mr. Ramos and I led the students in the Snake Dance. Let’s just say there was a lot of cheering and laughing from the audience and volunteers! At the end of the presentation, Mr. Ramos read a poem he had written titled Circa 1496 (see opposite page). In this moving poem, he shares his love for his culture and asks for justice to be carried out regarding the glorification of Christopher Columbus. Mr. Ramos’ presentation brought to light the issue we are facing as a nation regarding the misrepresentation of history and the divide it has caused in our country.
HOLOCAUST STUDIES CLASS CIRCA 1496
by Fayone Brown ’19
Luis Sanakori Ramos Many years ago — a man named Christopher Columbus sailed the ocean blue in 1492. He was discovered by a proud Indigenous People who gave him respect. Columbus wrote about the ancestral smiles, kindness, and finest speech. But then Chris sold his soul for an ounce of gold; He and his thugs stole, raped, and plundered! But like thunder the ancestors exposed his shame and claimed their flame of resistance. So the Colonizers with their cold hearts thought they were smart by forcing the African and the Northern and Southern tribes like the Mexica, Hopi, Andean, Mayan, Pequot, and Lumbee to work for free; but that only gave them the will to flee. Arriving in crowded ships and threatened with whips they were kept down with heavy chains until the strain was no more. They lived in dread as slaves and fled to the mountains as their backs bled. They were embraced by the long forgotten and provided a safe space to find peace. Many years have passed and now they call us Hispano Mestizo Negrito Latino Indio, but We are Proud Indigenous Peoples, who survived the abrasion of an Invasion. A Taino Evolution continues, but many think we don’t exist because we don’t keep the ways of 1496. We hid and remained silent because they feared us and wanted to kill us. Yet, our ancestors climbed the sacred mountains with no fear to disappear. Does not matter if we have Brown White Red Black Yellow Freckled skins; or Straight Curly Bald Corn Braided hairs; the air still smells sweet as we persist; with our fists thrust high as we resist. We fight for our right to exist! The Doctrine of Discovery is full of Papal BullSo let’s raise our fists in resistance because we have a right to an existence. Raise your fist in resistance. We have a right to an existence.
Keisha Henriquez ’19 (left) and Jala Somerville ’19 explaining their photo narrative.
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hat is the Holocaust? The Holocaust, also known as the Hebrew word Sho’ah, was a time period when six million Jewish people were targeted and murdered by Nazi Germany. Many Jews were sent to camps, where they were put into gas chambers and burned. Though most Jews were put into concentration and death camps, there were many survivors. Our first class group project was choosing six Holocaust images (out of 24) and explaining why you chose those particular images and what you thought might be happening in them. No other information was given to us; some of the pictures even had writing in German. Our group task was to create a photo narrative (on posters) using our six pictures to explain the story of the Holocaust. We were to use any knowledge from previous
classes and any outside information we might have. Each group presented its posters to the entire class and explained why we chose the pictures and what we thought might be happening in them. A frequently used pictured by most groups was an image of a Jewish synagogue being burnt, which reminded many of us of Kristallnacht (an attack against Jews throughout Nazi Germany on November 9-10, 1938) also referred to as “the Night of Broken Glass.” The name Kristallnacht comes from the numerous shards of broken glass scattered all over the streets, after windows of synagogues and Jewish-owned buildings were destroyed. Although Holocaust Studies might seem like an easy half-year class, there is so much more to it than you think!
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STUDENT SPOTLIGHT LOUGHLIN LACROSSE PLAYER
JULIAN FORBES ’19
AGE ı 17 FROM ı Brooklyn, NY
ASPIRATIONS Play lacrosse in college, earn a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, create a successful mobile app or innovative website, and become a philanthropist.
COLLEGE ATTENDING FALL 2019 Howard University
“My family is from Panama and Cape Verde. My dad, Gregory Forbes, graduated from Loughlin in 1993. That legacy, combined with the school’s great lacrosse team, made my decision to attend Loughlin an easy one. My first memory of lacrosse was at a fair in Manhattan, with a small lacrosse mini-game. After I did well in the game, I immediately signed up for the Brooklyn Lacrosse Club, playing there until I joined the Loughlin’s lacrosse team — where I really fell in love with the sport. I have been going to The Brooklyn Tabernacle church since I was a child and it has shaped me into the person I am today.” YEARS IN CURRENT SPORT “I started playing lacrosse at age 11, but I did not take it seriously until playing at Loughlin. I practiced every day after school once I made the team. Seeing my improvement inspired me to continue getting better and better.” WHY LACROSSE? “I love lacrosse because it’s a sport where you are constantly active and thinking. Lacrosse for me is like an escape from real life. It’s where I do not have to think about anything that is stressing me out or bothering me. Lacrosse is my mental home away from home.” GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT “My greatest accomplishment so far is participating in a program where I had to pitch an idea for an app in front of investors. This was an accomplishment because I was taken out of my comfort zone. This experience helped me grow because it got me used to publicly speaking.” WHAT WOULD BE YOUR ULTIMATE ACHIEVEMENT? “My ultimate achievement would be creating an extremely profitable mobile application that also helps people in need.” HOW DO YOU SET YOUR GOALS AND WHAT IS YOUR CHALLENGE? “I set my goals by finding and analyzing problems in my life and trying to find the solutions. I figure out whether or not my goals are valid by contemplating whether or not they increase my character and develop me or the people around me into better people. My challenge is trying to always be a person that people can look up to for guidance.”
SENIOR PIN DAY
A TRADITION THAT CELEBRATES FOUR YEARS Senior Pin Day, held in October, honors our seniors and their achievements. A pinning ceremony, where each senior selects a teacher to ‘pin them’, is followed by a class breakfast.
and the SENIOR BOAT CRUISE The school’s first Senior Dinner Boat Cruise, also in October, was a success! Seniors shared that it was a wonderful and fun way to begin the year and bond as a Class.
@LOUGHLIN WHITE COAT CEREMONY
Proudly wearing their white coats here with Dr. Robert Gore ’94 are (seated from left to right) seniors Kayla Freeman, Calise Cummings, Jaida Green, Gia Walcott, and Tyler Torres. Standing (from left to right) are seniors Fayone Brown, Sabrina Bartholomew, Ayana Bridgeman, Trevanne Jewsbury, Richard Baker, Aaron Idemudia, Nia Martin, Kumar Skippings, Kelvin Monje-Gonzalez, and Halle Primus. by Orlando Santiago ı PLTW teacher ı Science Department Chair
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y.
ite Coat ceremon
o at this year’s Wh
ag Mr. Orlando Santi
he Project Lead the Way (PLTW) Biomedical Science Program at Loughlin reached a significant milestone as 15 Biomed seniors received their formal White Lab Coats in November. Family members, faculty, and other students attended this special event in the school library to learn more about the achievements of the Biomed seniors. These students have worked through challenging coursework over the last three years.
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During Course One, the students became professional investigators to solve the case of the mysterious death of their fictitious victim, Anna Garcia. They visited the crime scene as CSIs and brought evidence back to the lab, became toxicologists and blood spatter analysts, ran DNA through gel electrophoresis apparati, became hematologists and endocrinologists to learn more about relevant disorders like sickle cell anemia and diabetes, eventually yielding a solution to Anna’s case. In the second course, Human Body Systems, they solved a series of cases using skills from course one, while learning brand new skills. For example, they became forensic anthropologists and radiologists, while expanding their knowledge of anatomy and physiology. In their current course, Medical Interventions, they became epidemiologists and stopped the spread of a bacterial meningitis
epidemic on a college campus, learning the value of various forms of intervention. As I told my students at the ceremony, I am confident that you will use your Biomed skills and knowledge to find a college and career path that is meaningful to you. Know that I am proud of all of you and look forward to hearing about the bright futures that lie ahead. It is my hope that these lab coats will symbolize to our students an affirmation of their continued success in their scientific and other academic endeavors, both throughout the remainder of their senior year and beyond. Additionally, I hope that the coats will remind them of the responsibility to work together for the greater good, even when it is not easy or popular. As stated in their Biomed Oath after receiving their Coats, the students will work to embody the principles of their Loughlin education, bringing reality to the phrase “Enter to learn, leave to serve.”
ARTHUR ASHE INSTITUTE for Urban Health
the
WHAT THE WHITE COAT MEANS TO ME
by Hanny Echeverria-Navarro ’21
by Richard Baker ’19
The recent White Coat Ceremony for me and my classmates was a recognition of personal growth. We are grateful for the overwhelming support from parents and faculty who came to celebrate with us. As one of the speakers, I felt a mixture of both excitement and nervousness that day. From the heart, I talked about what I have learned and gained from the program, what initially pulled me in, and where my future lies.
Hanny EcheverriaNavarro ’21 attending the Arthur Ashe Health Science Academy.
Mr. Santiago, our teacher for the PLTW course, wished us luck for the future. Some of the students thought he was getting emotional on the podium, but you didn’t hear it from me. After we received our white coats, we read aloud an alternative version to the Hippocratic Oath — the Biomed Oath.
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Our guest speaker, Dr. Robert Gore ’94, delivered words of wisdom to everyone in the crowd. It was interesting to hear him speak about his experiences at Loughlin and how the school prepared him for the future. Despite not having the resources we have today, he still managed to become a hero through his work as a doctor. His achievements provide inspiration; he is living proof of where this program can take us. We just have to build on the foundation provided to us through the Project Lead the Way (PLTW) program.
Loughlin helped me get into the program by supporting me and providing an opportunity for me to participate and excel. I am a School Ambassador, on the JV volleyball team, in Lasallian Youth, and I sing in performances at events throughout the school year.
Looking back, I gained more from that ceremony than expected. I stepped out of my comfort zone, which was scary, but liberating. Hearing Dr. Gore speak, opened my eyes to what a possible future in medicine could look like if I work hard. And, I got to walk around my school for the rest of the day wearing a white coat! That was fun.
Richard Baker ’19 after the White Coat ceremony held in November.
attend the prestigious Arthur Ashe Health Science Academy. Being accepted in to the program is a long process — applicants must commit to 26 weeks of study (two hours per week), fill out the application, have an 85 or higher grade in all classes, and go through an interview process. You are accepted if the staff feels like you would contribute to the program.
Currently in the program, we are discussing the importance of study skills. In the first year of the program (the program is offered to sophomores, juniors, and seniors), study skills are critical. As honor students we are held to very high standard. We must maintain our grades; it is important to know how to study and review your work. That is something I really like about Arthur Ashe, because they teach you skills that you can apply in school. The instructors at the Arthur Ashe Institute are very good and the environment is very social and friendly. Many of the lessons are interactive, which enables us to get to know each other. I look forward to continuing in the program going once a week to learn more about the human body and its functions. When I grow up, I want to become a OB/GYN and Pediatric surgeon. I enjoy the study of medicine and human body. I hope ,with the aid of the Arthur Ashe, Institute I can achieve this goal. Serving over 160 students a year, from over 12 Brooklyn schools, the Health Science Academy (HSA) is a program which introduces students to the Health Sciences in order to to address the chronic shortage of minorities in the healthcare and STEM fields. Source: arthurasheinstitute. org/health-science-academy. 13
@LOUGHLIN 2018 LOUGHLIN COUNCIL LUNCHEON
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he 2018 Loughlin Council Luncheon, held in December, began with a Mass in the St. Augustine Chapel at Bishop Loughlin and was followed with a wonderful luncheon. Alumni mingled with Loughlin students and heard about their interests and goals. The 13 students in attendance have career goals that include being a talent agent, professional basketball player, physical therapist, guidance counselor, cardiologist, actor, and dermatologist.
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Elisabeth Inalegwu ’19, an honor student, spoke about her experiences at Bishop Loughlin and her hopes of becoming a physical therapist or athletic trainer and attending one of her dream college choices like the University of Miami, UCONN, St. Francis College, or St. John’s University. Following Elizabeth, Bishop Loughlin former Board of Governors member Brian Connolly ’73 spoke and Ignatius J. Rienzo ’46 and his wife Maureen lit the Christmas tree in our lighting ceremony — which concluded the luncheon.
Not at the Luncheon was our 2018 Lionheart Award Recipient James Harrington ’47 (back center). John Klemm ’65 (far left) presented him with the award during a recent trip to Florida. Congratulations Jim!
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@LOUGHLIN In SPORTS – BASKETBALL SPOTLIGHT by Julian Champagnie ’19
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started playing basketball at age three in my local CYO league and played AAU in the sixth grade. I got serious about playing basketball in eighth grade, when I talked with my parents about college and how basketball could help them pay for the tuition.
This year our mindset was to win everything, because we had all the tools we needed to win. The new gym brings so much great energy, not only to the team, but to the school itself. Every home game is packed with classmates and fans cheering us on. This season (2018 - 2019) we had one of the best seasons in the school’s history. We were 18-1 overall and 11-1 in CHSAA league play. We ended our season winning the Brooklyn/ Queens Championship and playing in the CHSAA basketball semifinals.
PLAYING @ LOUGHLIN I was always told that my brother and I couldn’t play at Loughlin, but that didn’t faze us at all. Nervous as a freshman, I made the team and we ended up winning the WHEN I WAS YOUNGER first freshmen championship MY GOAL WAS TO PLAY in Loughlin history. BASKETBALL AT A DIVISION
BEYOND LOUGHLIN The college recruitment process has been thrilling. In my junior year, I had one scholarship offer to Santa Clara University — now I have full scholarship offers from 18 colleges and universities all over the country. Between junior and senior year, I spent the off-season in the gym with my teammates and coaches started to notice my game.
I SCHOOL. MY DREAM WAS Making the varsity team TO PLAY IN THE NBA. NOW sophomore year made THAT I KNOW I WILL PLAY me mentally strong. I didn’t AT A DIVISION I SCHOOL, MY get any playing time because GOAL IS TO PLAY IN of the veteran team full THE NBA. of seniors, but that season provided me the When I was younger my goal was to play basketball opportunity to grow my game and at a Division 1 school. My dream was to play in learn from the seniors. the NBA. Now that I know I will play at a Division 1 school, my goal is to play in the NBA. It is not a given Last year while the gym was under though, so I am also focusing on what happens construction, all teams lost practice time after basketball. I want to major in sports analysis, and there were no home games. It was so I can continue to be around the game that I love, also difficult because my brother and I when my playing days are over. were the only ones on the varsity team with previous varsity experience. Despite With the help of coaches and teachers, my grades all the obstacles that season, our young, have only gotten better since freshman year — from inexperienced team managed to go to a 77 average to a 88 average now. All my hard work, the semifinals in the Brooklyn/Queens on and off the court, is paying off. playoffs and the quarterfinals in City playoffs. SOME HIGHLIGHTS OF JULIAN’S 2018 -2019 SEASON POINTS SCORED THIS SEASON AVERAGE POINTS PER GAME DATE SCORED 1,000th POINT
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386 18 2/10/19
MVP ı 2019 Allstate Sugarbowl National Prep Classic First Team ı CHSAA
GIRLS TRACK & FIELD
Left, Louglin relay team of Brinesha Derrick-Bain’22, Brianna White ’20, Janee Patterson ’19, and Adia Palmer ’20. Right top and bottom, Varsity girls at the Dartmouth Games in Hanover, New Hampshire.
The Girls Track and Field team participated and excelled this year — here are a few highlights: MARINE CORPS HOLIDAY CLASSIC Ranked number one in the nation, the Lady Lions ran a personal best of 4:08.3 at the Marine Corps Holiday Classic in December, placing first (out of 46 teams) in the Sprint Medley Relay (Janee’ Patterson ’19, Brianna White ’20, Adia Palmer ’20, and Brinesha Derrick-Bain ’22). • Brinesha Derrick-Bain ’22 came in first in the Freshmen girls 55-meter Hurdles (out of 16 runners) with a time of 8.96.
DARTMOUTH RELAYS Seven of our Girls Track & Field members traveled to New Hampshire to The 50th Annual Dartmouth Relays — held in January at The Leverone Field House at Dartmouth College in Hanover, New Hampshire. The Lady Lions came home with nine first place plaques, one silver medal, and one bronze medal. The team placed second overall (out of 60 teams) with 44 points. The athletes also had the opportunity to meet and greet the 2012 Olympic Gold Medalist Hurdler Aries Merrit. • The Varsity girls Sprint Medley Relay (Janee’ Patterson ’19, Nosimat Salami ’20, Brianna White ’20, and Adia Palmer ’20) came in first, (out of 29 teams) with a time of 4:11.3. • The Varsity girls 4x200 Relay team (Janee’ Patterson ’19, Brianna White ’20, Adia Palmer ’20, and Brinesha Derrick-Bain ’22) came in first, (out of 34 teams) with a time of 1:46.3.
• Brianna White ’20 came in first in the 55-meter dash, (out of 128 runners) with a time of 7.3 and in third in the 300-meter dash, (out of 98 runners) with a time of 41.0. • Adia Palmer ’20 came in second in the 800-meter run, (out of 57 runners) with a time of 2:20.5. COLGATE WOMEN’S GAMES Top-ranked athletes in their events and divisions from up and down the East Coast set personal records this January at the 45th annual Colgate Women’s Games at Pratt Institute. • Brianna White ’20 placed first in the 55-meter dash, with a time of 7.39 and also won the 200-meter, with a time of 25.61 — defeating a Junior Olympian champion. • Adia Palmer ’20, undefeated at the games, came in first in the 800-meter run, with a time of 2:19.58.
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2018 LION/LANCER
LION/LANCER OPEN
OPEN LION/LANCER
Regina Bratichak at the 2018 Lion/Lancer Golf Outing.
by Regina Bratichak Äą English Department Chair
my husband offered to sponsor a foursome for the 2018 Lion/Lancer Golf Outing, I was in. This, despite the caveat from my friend EJJB, that golf is Gentlemen Only, Ladies Forbidden! The others in my fousome were all male — my husband and two friends. Not much more experienced on the course than I, it was a great time. Like all loyal Loughlinites, we “put our strength and our hearts in play.� They even had to acknowledge that I had best ball eleven times! (Yes, I took advantage of the women’s tee.) Before teeing off, I thought 18 might be too much; maybe I’d pack it in before the end of game. I didn’t. I enjoyed every moment. I’ll be honest in saying that any time I was near water, I switched to a white ball so I wouldn’t lose my pretty pink one; I didn’t lose any! Back in the Clubhouse
Golf is a sport I mocked for many years; I considered it a way to ruin a lovely walk, chasing a small ball. About four years ago, I reconsidered and decided to give it a try; maybe it would be something I could learn in middle age and take into retirement. I got clubs as a gift and took a few lessons. Who knew? I could actually hit the ball‌ straight!! Those who know me well can attest to my usual lack of athleticism, but somehow this clicked. Those same people know that the clubs, bag, shoes, and outfit all matched; and I use a neon pink ball, not a plain white one. Until this past June I had never been on an eighteen-hole course, and had only played a handful of nine-hole games. But when
Special SPONSORSHIPS
All sponsors will be recognized at the event on signage, in the event program, and on our website.
Course Sponsor Golf Carts Dinner Cocktails Lunch Breakfast Beverage Cart Closest to the Pin (2) Longest Drive (2) Golf Balls Awards & Prizes Signage Scorer Ranger Tee (27) or Green (27) Sponsor a Brother or faculty
As fun as the game was, the best part was the socialization afterwards. Where else could you find such a diverse group of people who are “Loyal Ones of Old Saint James?� Sharing food and drink, conversation, and laughter were alumni from as far back as 1947 — legacy Lasallians, who have retired, but are still vital — current staff members, family, and friends who support our mission and the reason for our existence — the students of Bishop Louglin. For all those there on that day, the motto may have been “Always first is the school we love.� What a great day!
BISHOP LOUGHLIN ALUMNI ASSOCIATION ST. AUGUSTINE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
$5,000 $5,000 $5,000 $3,000 $1,500 $1,000 $1,000 $1,000 $1,000 $1,000 $1,000 $500 $500 $500 $400 $325
Benefiting the Bishop Loughlin Alumni Scholarship Fund and the Raymond Brustman Scholarship Fund.
Lion/Lancer $4,000 Eight golfers, longest drive, and signage
$350 per player $1,400 per foursome $125 dinner only
Golf PACKAGES
Gold ‘L’ $2,300 Four golfers and closest to the pin
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after the game, we had a lovely evening of socializing. And, I won a trophy‌my first athletic trophy ever.
23rd Annual
LION/LANCER OPEN Golf Outing
MONDAY, JUNE 24, 2019
Inwood Country Club Äą Inwood, NY
For more information, contact Morgan Allison, at 718-857-2700, x2252 or mallison@blmhs.org
“The 2018 Lion/ Lancer Open Golf Outing was my first fund raising event at Bishop Loughlin. Often known for being quiet and diffident — especially within large groups of people, the golf outing provided me the opportunity to meet so many amazing alumni and donors — all who support and provide assistance to students at Bishop Loughlin. I had the chance to watch old friends reunite and see friendly rivalries. Once complimentary merchandise was collected (golf balls, customized windbreakers, etc.) at the start of the day, golfers were on their way to enjoy a day full of fun — not only for them, but for me as well! A special thanks to all who attended and supported. It was a pleasant experience to share this day with everyone including my peers and faculty. Hope to see everyone again next year!” – Kayla Archibald ’19
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TH BRO
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25 th AN NU A
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ATHLETIC HALL of FAME
W
e are proud to announce the 2019 inductees to the St. James/Bishop Loughlin Athletic Hall of Fame. The ceremony was held at Bishop Loughlin on Saturday, May 4, beginning with Mass at 3:15 p.m., followed by a cocktail reception, induction ceremony, and dinner. Classmates and teammates of these honorees attended and shared this special day as we celebrated Loughlin’s newest hall of fame members.
Top from left, Jeffrey Albies ’63, John Cosgrove ’76, Amber Gordon ’07, and Seldon Jefferson ’93. Below from left, Janean Morris ’06, Saleena Abdur-Rashed ’07, Reginald Riley ’77, and Thomas Walsh ’64.
Jeffrey Albies ’63
Basketball, Baseball
Janean Morris ’06
Track & Field
John Cosgrove ’76
Basketball, Baseball
Saleena Abdur-Rashed ’07
Track & Field
Amber Gordon ’07
Basketball, Volleyball, and Softball
Seldon Jefferson ’93 Basketball
Reginald Riley ’77 Thomas Walsh ’64
Basketball Water Polo/Swimming
Additionally, the 1979 Girls Indoor Track Team was given the George J. Cappiello and William A. McManus Honored Team Award.
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The LOUGHLIN GAMES are ALIVE and Well! by Ed Bowes ’60
B
r. George Synan, FSC would be proud. He founded the Loughlin Games in 1954 and this past December we celebrated its 65th anniversary. A special congratulations to our 2018 Bishop Loughlin Games varsity girls 4x4 Meter Relay first place champions (pictured here) Janee’ Patterson ’19, Adia Palmer ’20, Brianna White ’20, and Brinesha Derrick Bain ’22 — with a time of 4:03.7. This two-day event was held at the Ocean Breeze Athletic Complex on Staten Island. This beautiful stateof-the-art indoor track and field facility opened in 2015. At that time, we decided to move the meet from its 168th Street Armory home for financial reasons, as well as logistical reasons, like plenty of free parking for cars and buses and free admission. Our meet, known nationally, sees 66 events over two days — one day for boys and one for girls. The meet director is highly recognized Phil Zodda, while I am Meet Director Emeritus. Hard to believe, but I ran in the third annual games in 1956 — 63 years ago! By the way, the Loughlin Games was the first indoor meet to include a girls event in 1975, the 1000 meter run. We are proud that this meet continues uninterrupted year after year. Other major meets like the Cardinal Hayes Games, The Mayor’s Meet, The St. Francis Prep Games, etc., ended years ago. Any questions on our great spectacle should be directed to Ed Bowes (718-938-1492) or Morgan Allison (718-857-2700, ext. 2252).
BISHOP LOUGHLIN LIONS DEN SHOP YOUR PLACE FOR BISHOP MCDONNELL, ST. AUGUSTINE, AND LOUGHLIN APPAREL! HATS • SWEATSHIRTS • POLOS T-SHIRTS
FLEECES • SWEATSHIRTS OUTERWEAR
HER E a re
SOME OF OU R
NE W AR R IVA LS
VISIT BLMHS.ORG/SHOPNOW TODAY 21
ALUMNI
News
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT JAMES ORENGA ’58 Jim Orenga ’58 has been a strong supporter of Loughlin for many years. Giving back is nothing new to him. But when he retired about five years ago, he had a decision to make on how to spend his time. Putting his feet up was not going to work. He needed to stay busy and “remain relevant” as he puts it. A natural path for a successful area businessman was to join several local nonprofit boards, which Jim did. After serving in traditional board roles, he was looking for something different altogether. From those experiences he wanted to be on the ground, where he could “touch and feel the mission and the people served.” That will sound to some like an excerpt from the Prayer of the Teacher which reads “it is you who touch the hearts of the children entrusted to my care.” As noted above, Jim is a terrific support to his Lasallian alma mater. He established the George Orenga Memorial Scholarship Fund after his father, who “sold newspapers from his newsstand on 7th Avenue and 28th street, and worked very hard to give me an education.” Another gift helped to make the new Biomedical Science and Engineering Program what it is today — a robust opportunity for more than 200 students to explore paths that will prepare them for careers of the future. Jim talks about Loughlin wherever he goes and, as he says, “a 99% graduation rate; who does that?” As a community leader, Jim is well aware of the public-school graduation rate in Cleveland which hovers around 50% (for those of you keeping score, NYC is around 60% at last tally). A NEW PURPOSE Jim loved his career; but found new purpose in retirement. In fact, he found quite a bit of purpose dividing his time between three non-profit organizations: the Peter Maurin Center, The Homeless Charity, and Students With A Goal (SWAG). Deeply engaged in the work as Treasurer of all three organizations, Jim also has a primary role at the Peter Maurin Center.
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“When the founder stepped down, I took over most of the duties. I serve coffee and food, and then pay the bills.” THE PETER MAURIN CENTER Like De La Salle, Peter Maurin was an immigrant from France, and is the inspiration for The Peter Maurin Center. In 1933, Peter and Dorothy Day started The Catholic Worker together in NYC at the height of the Depression. The Center is an all-volunteer organization that provides guests with food, bus passes, personal care items, bikes, and many other items. Remarkably, they do no fundraising. Jim says, “The money just comes in, it is incredible, and just as important as the hot meals and clothes, is the sense of community and belonging at the Center.” He is most proud of the fact that the Peter Maurin Center takes in more than 50 homeless people daily during the winter when they need to get out of the frigid weather. “It is not easy, or entirely legal at this time, but we do what we must and it works out well.” THE HOMELESS CHARITY The Homeless Charity is a relatively new organization that “seeks to meet the homeless where they are today and to get them where they want to be tomorrow, by offering transitional support services.” The heartbeat of the all-volunteer organization has been the “tent city”, which exists to help transition approximately 40-60 individuals at any given time. About half of the original residents are now in homes. In fact, the organization has purchased one home to provide transitional housing, and is in the process of purchasing another, thanks to the housing surplus in Akron. The land is affordable and the volunteers and residents fix them up.
In recent weeks however, the city of Akron has forced all tents to be removed from the owner’s property, a decision that the Institute for Justice is beginning to fight in a nationally watched case. While the case is in the courts, the organization continues to provide other services for the homeless. Jim says that “I have learned that the key is socialization. Most have lost touch with other people, when they live on the streets. Many of them are afraid, dealing with rough people, mental issues, etc. and socialization can be lost. The community helps with that.” The Homeless Charity received national attention in the NY Times in October, 2018. Read the article here — nytimes. com/2018/10/16/us/akron-homeless-tentcity.html. STUDENTS WITH A GOAL (SWAG) Students With A Goal (SWAG) is a very different organization; one which “creates a mentoring home which cultivates students’ potential for learning, leadership, life, and loving relationships” by offering after-school mentoring and academic programs for students in grades six through twelve. Remarkably, they have dinner together four days a week and send students home by 8 p.m. Although this level of engagement would be daunting for most, Jim says, “I am incredibly happy in my volunteer work. I am not sure what I would do if not for these organizations and the people I have come to know. It has given me a new sense of purpose.” Kudos to Jim; a man who learned his lessons well at Loughlin in the 50s, and continues to live the mission of St. John Baptist De La Salle each and every day.
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT ISAIAH POOLER ’17
Isaiah Pooler ’17, sporting a Villanova University sweatshirt as a senior at Bishop Loughlin. by Isaiah Pooler ’17
Growing up, I don’t think anyone saw me where I am today — a sophomore at Villanova University. I know I didn’t. One thing I do know is that the family that is Bishop Loughlin helped me be successful.
I
found my four years at Bishop Loughlin to be anything but simple. Some called me foolish to take on the many challenges I did. In the end though, the brave path and stepping up to the plate allowed me to overcome all the challenges and become my best self. I was in the top five of my class, President of the National Honor Society, and the head manager of the both the volleyball and basketball programs. I left Loughlin fully prepared for college. The school was a primary influence in crafting who I see myself to be.
Villanova and a men’s basketball manager. I am working toward the ‘Head of Stats and Analytics’ position.
Taking all I learned, I am now an electrical engineering student at
I will never forget the school that put me on the right path to being the best me.
The transition academically to college was rocky at first, but now my grades are much better and I am working hard to graduate at the top of my class, taking a minimum of 19 credits per semester. It is a lot of work, but I am more than prepared. I am so pleased to see that Loughlin now has classes and clubs to help connect students with the subjects for aspiring engineers.
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LOUGHLIN REUNION 2018
ON THE REUNION..... by Julian Forbes ’19
I
had the honor of attending the annual Loughlin reunion in October. I met and talked to so many successful Loughlin graduates who gave me confidence that my Loughlin education and experience is preparing me for college and life after college. The Loughlin graduates I met were a living testament to this. The reunion was truly amazing. I was able to talk to people who grew up just like me, walked the same halls as me, and had similar challenges as me. Since the reunion, I have been motivated and inspired to be the best person I can possibly be — to one day inspire Loughlin students. Over 200 alumni attended the reunion for a wonderful day that included a Mass, reception, a celebration ceremony, and dinner.
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ST. AUGUSTINE REUNION 2018
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2018 LIONHEART AWARD RECIPIENT
JAMES KONKEL ’54
A
t St. Augustine, James Konkel ’54 was the track manager and on the yearbook committee. He attended St. Francis College and earned a Accounting Degree in 1957. Proud to say that his entire career was with one firm, Mr. Konkel retired from Deloitte & Touche LLP accounting firm. He was hired by the firm immediately after graduating from St. Francis College.
Our 2018 Lancer Lionheart Award Recipient James Konkel ’54 (center) with John Klemm ’65 and (left) Thomas Van Buskirk ’70.
Congratulations to our 2018 Lancer Hall of Fame inductees (left) Larry Barlett ’68 and (center) Tom McGann ’68.
Mr. Konkel, a member of the American Institute of CPAs, was active outside Deloitte & Touche and the accounting profession. He taught at the Columbia Graduate School and lectured at seminars, research conventions, and professional societies; he wrote articles in professional journals, technical manuals, and chapters in professional text books. He was a member of the Board of Directors of Brooklyn Academy of Music, a member of the Board of Trustees of the Berkeley School, and the Cardinals Committee of the Laity. Mr. Konkel is a trustee of the Parish of St. Francis Xavier and has been a member of its Finance Committee for 25 years. Additionally, he is a Knight of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre with the rank of Grand Cross. A generous supporter of Bishop Loughlin because of the Christian Brothers values he was taught at St. Augustine, Mr. Konkel established a scholarship fund for a Loughlin student attending St. Francis College.
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ON THE
2018 ST. AUGUSTINE REUNION by Vinny Visco ’68
O
n a crisp clear November afternoon time stood still and 50 years were compressed into one day, and what a day it was. The 50th reunion of St. Augustine’s Class of 1968 was a great success. Even though many of us have stayed in touch over the years, it was wonderful to come together with so many at one time — much like being in a homeroom all over again. Remembering crazy antics and episodes we considered wild (but by today’s standards they would be considered innocent),it was amazing how we were able to recount catch phrases and actions of the brothers and teachers and reenact them! It’s evidence that the strong bonds created over the four years at St. A.’s could never be broken. The presence of one of our favorite teachers, Mr. Joe Huckla, also made it special. Like the rest of us, he looked as if time stood still. Most notable was having two of our classmates, Larry Bartlett and Tom McGrann, inducted into the Hall of Fame for the incredible work they’ve done in health care and the military respectively. We thank Bishop Loughlin for hosting the event. Many have voiced the desire to attend as many reunions as possible over the next years. Since the reunion, we have all kept in touch via phone or social media and will continue to do so.
Left, Vinny Visco ’68 with classmate Vincent Passione ’68 at the 2018 St. Augustine reunion.
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FRAGMENTS by Vinny Visco ’68
Aging doesn’t make you grow old, just a method for counting days and years. Losing bits and pieces of your youth throughout the years is what does it. Like eroding statues in the Parthenon chipped away by time until their youthful appearance is no longer discernible. That best friend now gone who shared memories of wild episodes and antics leaving you alone now to wonder how the hell did we survive those years? The high school coach who touted your talent now silenced by the Footman’s scythe. No video or photo to recall your accomplishments, beginning to melt away. Has it been so long since I dunked a basketball? Returning to the old neighborhood now gentrified along with a new name. Passing unfamiliar faces and facades. Searching the vacant air around me for the scent of roasting coffee and bread baking. No sign of chalk bases marked between two sewers for stickball. Missing are the old centurions posted in the airy way keeping close watch on the block, the only security system needed. The anxiety of reunions now meant to signal out those that are missing. Each disappointment causing shoulders to slouch step to slow down with hands in pockets. That’s when the years begin to mount. Looking back on years instead of ahead. Hold fast to what fragments of youth are left and revisit them frequently before becoming one of those bits and pieces.
S AV E THE D AT E LANCERS CELEBRATE 110 YEARS
ST. AUGUSTINE DIOCESAN HIGH SCHOOL ı 1909-1969 2019 ST. AUGUSTINE REUNION ı 50TH ANNIVERSARY — CLASS OF 1969
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2019 We are planning to have a special ‘all years’ reunion, marking the 110th Anniversary of the founding of St. Augustine and the 50th Anniversary of its closing in 1969 at BLMHS. We will be honoring both the classes of 1969 and 1970 who left 64 Park Place on the same day in June 1969. The class of 1969 headed off to college, careers, and the United States Military. The class of 1970 continued as seniors at new places — Nazareth, Poly Prep, Bishop Ford, and Bishop Loughlin. We Lancers are proud of our legacy at BLMHS. We urge you to come back and see The Lancer Music Studio, St. Augustine Chapel, and Lancer Hall. You will have a chance to meet students who attend BLMHS, partially due to your generosity through the Brustman and Macchiarola scholarships. CLASS COORDINATOR VOLUNTEERS ARE NEEDED TO CALL AND EMAIL CLASSMATES! For more information about how you can help, contact Morgan Allison (718-857-2700, ext. 2252 ı mallison@blmhs.org) or visit loughlin.org
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ST. AUGUSTINE SPORTS HISTORY — 1910 - 1969 The information here is from the limited archives at Bishop Loughlin, the Diocese of Brooklyn Archives, and CHSAA publications. It may have omitted some individuals because our resources are incomplete. Please forward any information to the Development office at Bishop Loughlin to the attention of John Klemm at jklemm@blmhs.org or 718-857-2700 x2254.
CITY CHAMPIONSHIPS BASKETBALL ı 1929, 1930, and 1937 (Jack Crenny, Coach) INDOOR TRACK ı 1932 (Alexander Pinkerton, Coach), 1953 (Br. Michael Reynolds, FSC, Coach) OUTDOOR TRACK ı 1929, 1930, 1932 (Alexander Pinkerton, Coach)
CITY CHAMPIONS and ALL-CITY ATHLETES BASKETBALL Joe Brennan 1919 Arthur Smith 1929 Jerry Daly 1930 & 1931 Tom Carroll 1931 Gene Kenny 1932 Dan Lynch 1932, 1933 Peter Gallagher 1935 Tim Brosnan 1937 Jack Schmidt 1937 Bill Lyons (pictured here) 1953 Peter Brennan 1954 Paul Jamin 1958 Tom McNeece 1964 TRACK/FIELD Jack Carey Matt Carey John Seaman Val Riordan Bob Reilly Eric Williams Dan Gehan Tom Murphy
1928-1930 1931-1933 1929-1930 1930-1933 1933-1935 1933-1936 1947-1948 1952-1954
BASEBALL Donald Prosser 1935 Ed Leighton 1936-1937 Jack McQuade 1952-1953 SWIMMING Herbert Younkman Jim McWalters
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1930-1931 1934-1935
Additions to our 2017 -2018 Annual Report
Anonymous ’55
Paul Largo
Eugene A. Avidano ’67
Diane & Michael McCormack & Family
Steven Biasetti
Thomas E. O’Donnell ’57
Mr. & Mrs. Peter Bonventre
James Persoons
James B. Boyle
Jerome Phillip
John M. Bratichak, Architect PC
Joe Pietro
The Brennan Charitable Foundation, Inc.
Paul Rosica
Glenn Coltey
Frank Sharkey
Carlo Curiale
Society of the Friendly Sons of Saint Patrick
Ricardo A. Curiale
Alan Tannenbaum
Elizabeth Daly
Gerard Walsh
DeSales Media Group
James. L. Walsh
Frank Finn
Daniel R. Welch
The Michael Gordon Foundation, Inc.
Stephen G. Wilson
Robert P. Giurlando ’64
Joshua & Mara Wolff
Br. John P. Guasconi FSC ’61
John P. Wright
Lynda M. Haran
SAVE THE DATE 2019 BISHOP LOUGHLIN REUNION
50th ANNIVERSARY CLASS of 1969
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2019 Bishop Loughlin Memorial High School
CELEBRATING ALL CLASS YEARS ENDING IN 4 s and 9 s For more information about the reunion, contact Morgan Allison at 718-857-2700, ext. 2252, or email mallison@blmhs.org, or visit loughlin.org
Bishop Loughlin Memorial High School 357 Clermont Avenue Brooklyn, New York 11238
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