An Italian American Heritage Fraternity since 1914
Kleos Celebrates 90th Year / Psi, Chi, and Beta Beta Celebrate 90 Also
THE KLEOS O F
A L P H A
P H I
D E L T A
An Educational Journal
Volume 90, Issue 2 Spring Issue, April 2019 Compiled and edited by: John J. Russo 1331 Peachtree Lane North Huntingdon, PA 15642 E-mail: APDKleos@apd.org Associate Editor/Photographer: Emil Coscarelli Contributors: Emil Imbro, Sal Flagiello, Mike Iacovelli, Joe Caldarella, Angelo Flagiello, Chris Mancusi, Vince Verdile, Matt Modany, Mike Young Creative Designer: Jody Toth National Officers NATIONAL PRESIDENT Todd Cusato E-mail: President@apd.org NATIONAL VICE PRESIDENT Sal Flagiello E-mail: ExecVP@apd.org CENTRAL OFFICE / NATIONAL SECRETARY Paul Zammitt E-mail: APDoffice@apd.org NATIONAL TREASURER Rick Trieste E-mail: VPFinancial@apd.org
Foundation FOUNDATION CHAIRMAN Anthony Carfang E-mail: Foundation@apd.org SCHOLARSHIP CHAIRMAN Charles G. Fiore 42 70th Street Brooklyn, NY 11209 E-mail: Charles@FioreLawyer.com
Central Office 257 E. Camden Wyoming Ave., Suite A Camden, DE 19934 Telephone: (302) 531-7854 Website: www.apd.org
IN THIS ISSUE: Undergraduate Highlights . . . 4–6, 8, 9 Expansion Highlights . . . 7 Kleos Celebrates 90 Years . . . 10 Alpha Phi Delta DC Gala . . . 12 National Council Convenes at Pace . . . 14 Foundation: Meet Our Directors . . . 16 Alumni News . . . 17
OUR ITALIAN HERITAGE
90th Anniversary of The Kleos The first issue of The Kleos was published in December 1929. The Stock Market had crashed just two months earlier in October. Who among us can imagine what the mood of the country was like then? Amidst that moment of great financial uncertainty in our country, the brothers of Alpha Phi Delta marked the 15th anniversary of the fraternity by publishing the first issue of our magazine. This issue marks the 90th anniversary of The Kleos. To commemorate this issue, I went back and read the first Kleos. In it I found some timeless words from our founders that I would like us all to remember today as we turn the pages of this magazine. The editor Dr. Peter Sammartino wrote in his first editorial “The Magazine of Alpha Phi Delta makes its bow. It succeeds the Ticker and the Chapter Letter, both of which were esoteric sheets distributed to the undergraduate members only. The Magazine of Alpha Phi Delta Emil Imbro, Pi ’67 Fraternity takes its place among the major fraternity publications of Vice President of the United States. Its pages will reflect the glory and the achieveCultural Affairs ments of the Fraternity.” The first article in that issue was entitled “Fifteen Years Ago” written by the Grand Historian Francis Pagano. In it he states “I am very happy that Alpha Phi Delta has begun the publication of a magazine for it will be a great help in accomplishing the goal: a written history of our Fraternity. “By obtaining articles from older brothers and having them published in the magazine, the facts will be obtained from the men who are the very makers of our history. These facts, by publication, will be in permanent form and will be disseminated, so that our brothers will have a working knowledge of our history even before it is officially compiled.” We continue this tradition today. The Grand Historian used this article to publish letters by two of our founders: Ferdinand F. DiBartolo and Cesidio Guarini, the essence of which I want to share with you. DiBartolo reflected on his early days on campus and waiting to meet other Italian men. He then went on to describe them: Anthony Frascati—being overcome by heartfelt warmth and hospitality at his house; Nick Frunzi—the ladies’ man from NYC; Cangiamila—the boy from Buffalo with the smile that never failed; Gelormini—the serious-minded scientist and so on. Guarini spoke of the conversation in Chancellor Day’s office when he corrected the statement of brother DiBartolo stating, “We come to advise you that Alpha Phi Delta is already organized, and we are united by an oath.” To which Chancellor Day said, “Well gentlemen, there was no need for you to come at all. Good-day.” Freddy, who worked for the university, then said, “Good bye my job.” And the murmur from Cangiamila, “Maria.” And speaking of the Alpha Phi Delta of the day, Guarini said, “there is no end or boundary of the sons of an immortal race.” That issue also included an introduction to our new chapter at Manhattan College among the 24 chapters that existed then and an article about Duquesne’s greatest football player Aldo “Buff” Donnelli, who went on to play in the NFL, and other miscellaneous pieces of fraternity information. We have come a long way from that black and white pamphlet to our full color magazine of today. In 90 years, we have grown from 24 chapters to 45 active chapters and 28 alumni clubs—through which 21,000 brothers have passed. n
9th Florida Sunshine Tour . . . 18 Alumni Highlights . . . 19–21 In Memoriam . . . 23 Convention 2019 . . . 24
2
I
Cesidio Guarini and Ferdinand DiBartolo, two of our Founders and contributors to the first Kleos.
KLEOS-The Magazine of Alpha Phi Delta, April 2019
www.APD.org
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Mid-Term Assessment BY TODD CUSATO, 54TH NATIONAL PRESIDENT I am proud we continued to hold our leadership conferences this year thanks to the generous grant provided through the Alpha Phi Delta Foundation. Our four annual conferences were held at Delta Chi, Colorado; Beta Beta, Manhattan College; Epsilon Nu, Penn State Altoona; and Delta Psi, Lynn. We had close to 300 undergraduate brothers attend these conferences. These conferences are great educational tools to help our chapters understand the responsibilities of running a chapter, understand what is expected in their chapter specific position, discuss risk management and reflect on our Italian American history. We have evolved these conferences each year regarding the various topics covered and instead of having this in the more traditional teacher-student format which does remain for certain aspects, focuses more on group discussion where the undergraduate brothers lead the discussion on various subjects. We will have a moderator assigned to a topic to make sure we keep to the subject, but the barriers or strengths are discussed from our brothers who experience these items’ day to day on their campuses. I invite you to attend these next year and reach out if you would like further information. Finally, I hope to see you all at our next big event, which will be the Summer Convention. The convention will be held August 7-11 in Lancaster Pa. Brother John Russo has put together a fabulous weekend filled with various events such as golf, wine tasting, family outing and even a murder mystery dinner. I encourage you to consider attending whether you may never have attended a prior summer convention or haven’t been able to attend in prior years. n
Photo by Chris Mancusi
We are a little more than halfway past our 2018–19 year, and I would like to keep our brothers up to date with news of our progress. Our fall semester saw our projection of new brothers welcomed into Alpha Phi Delta even at 180 with our retention rate of 80% which is a tick below our goal. Alpha Phi Delta has little chapter debt and we are working with those chapters that owe. Our expansion efforts continue with our four current colonies. Fitchburg State University, which we started in 2017, plus our three colonies that started in the fall 2018 semester: SUNY Cortlandt, SUNY New Paltz and Gamma Phi (our re-activation at New York Institute of Technology.) Our council meeting was held Saturday, February 16 at our Gamma Iota Chapter (Pace University.) The meeting and weekend overall were a great example of our family bonds. I am happy to report we re-chartered our Beta Phi Chapter from Rowan University. Our elected and appointed officers were all reappointed for another year outside our Vice-President for Undergraduate Affairs, which usually changes year to year. Jonathan Cangin from our Epsilon Zeta Chapter at St Joseph’s College will take over July 1. We were also able to hold a dinner after the council meeting which saw about 75 undergraduate and alumni brothers break bread. The lone logistic issue we laughed greatly about was our National Secretary Paul Zammit missing the meeting because our newest brother of 2037, Robert Michael Zammit, decided he wanted to make his entrance into the world at the same time as our meeting. I have to thank Father James Lentini for stepping in at the last minute to serve as secretary and the Beta Beta Chapter, Manhattan College, which ran off copies of our needed documents for the meeting. Our 2020 council meeting for those interested will be in the NYC district for the first time since 2008. Our Gamma Sigma Chapter at St John’s Staten Island will host the council meeting on Saturday February 28.
The Staten Island Alumni Club held its March gathering on March 23, 2019 at 1st and 3rd in Great Kills. Over 30 brothers attended as well as undergraduates from Gamma Kappa and Gamma Sigma. The club voted on officers and planned the Spring/Summer Schedule.
ON THE COVER: The retro Kleos cover is a reflection on our 90 years as a publication. The masthead “KLEOS” is from 1930 as the 1929 issue (shown inset) was only titled, “The Magazine of Alpha Phi Delta.” (Top center) Psi Chapter at Duquesne University was founded in 1929 and will celebrate its 90th anniversary with a grand reunion celebration as part of the Duquesne University Homecoming in October. Psi is our oldest continually active chapter and has the largest number of initiates in APD history—more than 1,150. The party will be held Saturday, October 26 at 6:00 on the campus of Duquesne. All are welcome to attend. Pictured are the founders of Psi Chapter along with several 1929 national officers. Editor: Not all are known in the photo, but Kleos founder Peter Sammartino is bottom row, second from left. Brother Sammartino later founded Fairleigh Dickinson University. Thirty years ago, I wrote to the Dr. Sammartino for the 75th anniversary of the fraternity, and he was gracious enough to reply. Corresponding with him was one of the highlights of being the Kleos Editor. (lower left) Chi Chapter at Penn State and (lower right) Beta Beta at Manhattan are also celebrating 90th anniversaries, although the chapters have not been continuously active for 90 years.
This page sponsored by Alex Franki, Gamma Lambda ’90, Fordham University. www.APD.org
April 2019, KLEOS-The Magazine of Alpha Phi Delta
I
3
Photo by Chris Mancusi
UNDERGRADUATE HIGHLIGHTS
Recently, the Gamma Kappa Chapter at the College of Staten Island went down to one brother. Things were really bleak as the lone undergraduate was scheduled to graduate in May. However, Khalil Alzein, a brother from Vaughn College actively hustled to recruit a pledge class and the result was four men inducted into the fraternity. Joshua Delgado, Michael James Hendrix, Anthony Jo and Andrew Milazzo were given the oath of brotherhood as the Beta Mu pledge class. The ceremony was coordinated by Chris Mancusi, PNP, NYC South District Governor on
October 31, 2018. The pledgemaster for the pledge class was Gamma Kappa Alumni Advisor and VP for Alumni Affairs Mike Young. Brothers from Epsilon Zeta and Gamma Sigma attended the ceremony as well. RIGHT: Andrew Milazzo, a newly inducted brother of Gamma Kappa was actually a student of brother Chris Mancusi who inducted him in late October. Andrew had “Mr. Mancusi� as a computer teacher while in 6th grade at IS 34-Totten Intermediate School in Staten Island, NY. Small world!
Photo by Emil Coscarelli
Want to show your APD spirit with some APD merchandise? Shop online at: www.apd.org/spiritrecognition.html BELOW: Brothers Mitch Frantz, Michael Love and Kyle Campbell (Epsilon Theta, Misericordia) deliver Thanksgiving meals for needy families in Dallas, Pa. They also donated two Thanksgiving dinners through Mercy Leaders. Photo by Michael Love
The brothers of the North Jersey and Newark district held their Fall semester Brotherhood for Life event on October 26 at the Beta Xi-Delta Omicron house in Newark, NJ. The event was very well attended by pledges from all over the northern New Jersey area. During the past few years this event has grown progressively more popular and is a great way for pledges to get to know the fraternity and the brothers a little better. The pledges heard numerous brothers from the North Jersey Alumni Club speak about how APD impacted their lives as undergraduates and later as alumni. Later in the evening the pledges had the opportunity to mingle with the brothers and have their pledge books signed in a relaxed atmosphere. No one walked away from this event hungry, as pizza and soda was served complements of the North Jersey Alumni Club. The event proved to be very informative for the pledges and everyone had a great time! This page sponsored by the Pittsburgh Alumni Club.
4
I
KLEOS-The Magazine of Alpha Phi Delta, April 2019
www.APD.org
Photo by Emil Coscarelli
On Saturday October 27, Theta Beta Chapter, NYU, held their induction for the Xi pledge class at the Kimmel Student Center at NYU. For those of you who need a refresher course on the Greek alphabet, this is the 14th group to be inducted since the chapter was reactivated in the spring of 2012 and proved to be the most challenging of all of the pledge periods. Facing serious financial problems due to a severely depleted bank account, a very low count of active brothers remaining on campus mainly due to graduation and stiff competition from much larger fraternities at NYU, this could have easily meant the demise of the chapter. Instead of giving up, the remaining brothers under the leadership of President Justin Chae came up with a well thought out plan to address these issues. First off they partnered with nearby Delta Epsilon Chapter and held a highly successful and profitable party to get their finances back in order. Next they came up with a strong group of six pledges. Again they partnered with Delta Epsilon brothers who
added numbers to several of their pledge events, provided guidance to the remaining brothers, attended their pledge meetings and even served as big brothers for some of the pledges. The culmination of the pledge period was the induction of six new brothers. The future now looks pretty bright as all of the new brothers plus the remaining holdovers are underclassmen and should stick around for a while. The young, energetic group is already looking forward to recruiting another strong group for the upcoming spring semester. The ceremony was conducted by Assistant NYC South District Governor Richy Vasquez. Pictured in this photo taken in the lobby of the Kimmel Center:1st row (l to r): Nick Kodati, Omar Duajare, newly inducted brothers Derek Pan, Matt Asare, Benny He, Justin Hong, Matt Ramos, Andrew Kibbe. 2nd row: Anthony Galli, Nico Valencia, Michael Jacobson, Omar Kress, Matt Gonzalez, Jesse Broome, Emil Coscarelli. 3rd row: Justin Chae, Peter Gaudiuso, Romel Gutierrez and Kelvin Acosta.
Photo by Matt Modany
Photo by Fr. Jim Lentini
Delta Upsilon brothers of Robert Morris celebrate their sixth anniversary since reactivation.
On January 30, brothers of Delta Delta Chapter manned a table at the spring 2019 semester “Meet the Greeks” event at Wesley College in Dover, Delaware. The table, which features Kleos magazines, fraternity recruitment info, and Italian Cultural items was staffed following a video presentation about Alpha Phi Delta given by Chapter President Christian Earle. Pictured (l–r) chapter brothers Luis Cruz, Lucas Saffos, Christian Earle, and Daniel Garza.
This page sponsored by the Pittsburgh Alumni Club. www.APD.org
April 2018, KLEOS-The Magazine of Alpha Phi Delta
I
5
Photo by Jim Lentini
UNDERGRADUATE HIGHLIGHTS The brothers of Beta Lambda Chapter received their 2018 Chapter Composite during a visit from the National Chaplain on February 6, 2019 at St. Francis University. The three-foot by five-foot composite is shown in this photo surrounded by the brothers of the chapter. In addition to the large composite, each undergraduate brother of the chapter received a personalsize 11" x 17" composite. Fr. Lentini, also presented Beta Lambda Chapter with a special 70th Anniversary banner. On November 1, the chapter celebrated the 70th anniversary of its chartering. The banner, in addition to anniversary dates atop the banner, features the name of every Beta Lambda Chapter initiate since the chapter’s founding, in 1949, imprinted into the background of the banner. Photo by Chris Mancusi
Epsilon Iota (Centenary University) holds its Iota class induction on November 18, 2018. Javier Espinosa, Tyler Martinez, Ryan Mueller and Justin Velez were given the oath of brotherhood. Keith Bassford, North Jersey District Governor and Chris Mancusi, PNP, Epsilon Iota Alumnus Advisor coordinated the ceremony. The induction was held at the Gamma Pi house.
Photo by Chris Mancusi
On November 17, 2018 Beta Eta (CUNY Brooklyn College) held the initiation of its 92nd pledge group. Stephen O’Neil, Alex Petillo, Anthony Polanco and Joseph Tafuri were given the oath of brotherhood by Chris Mancusi, PNP, NYC South District Governor.
This page sponsored by Beta Beta Alumni, Manhattan College
6
I
KLEOS-The Magazine of Alpha Phi Delta, April 2019
www.APD.org
Expansion Highlights Photo by Sal Flagiello
On Saturday November 17, nine brothers were inducted at one of our newest colonies at the State University of New York at Cortland. Congratulations to all of the brothers who make up the Alpha Class: Nate Pine, Styler Russo, Joe Bacchi, Roger Montalvo, Brandon Ramirez, Erik Garcia, Jason Karp, Jesse Wadler, and Dougie Friedman. This project is being led by Upstate New York District Governor Jacob Foster who has every entity in the district fully supporting it. In attendance at the induction ceremony conducted by Jacob were some of the brothers from our Beta Iota chapter (Utica College) and National Vice President Sal Flagiello.
Photo by Sal Flagiello
On Saturday November 17, eight brothers were inducted into the Alpha Class at the State University of New York at New Paltz. Congratulations to Connor Marble, Bobby Radovanovich, Troy Womble, Mike Dimarco, Andrew Mancinelli, Kevin Pavlidis, Nicholas Alfiero, and Rigo Griggs. The project, led by Matthew Rahtelli and Hudson Valley District Governor Jeff Sidoti, is the first colony that the Hudson Valley area has seen in almost a decade! Also in attendance were National President Todd Cusato, National Vice President Sal Flagiello, Foundation Director Mickey D'Addato, alumni brothers Joe Rahtelli II, Al Branchi and Andrew Finck, and every undergraduate entity from the Hudson Valley District. Photo by Franco Liberatore
Photo by Chris Mancusi
Let's give a big welcome to the newly inducted Gamma Class of our Fitchburg State University Colony!
On December 2, 2018, the Gamma Kappa Chapter at the College of Staten Island inducted Justin Hunte as its Beta Nu pledge class. The ceremony was coordinated by Chris Mancusi, PNP, NYC South District Governor, Todd Cusato, National President and Mike Young, VP for Alumni Affairs who also served as the pledgemaster. The chapter, which began the semester with one brother on campus, inducted five men this semester.
Photo by Sal Flagiello
GAMMA PHI IS BACK (NYIT) On Monday December 10, the journey to officially reactivate our Gamma Phi Chapter at the New York Institute of Technology in Long Island, New York began. The chapter last inducted a brother in 1991. National Vice President Sal Flagiello and Long Island District Governor Allan Matthews oversaw the induction of the Alpha Class. Congratulations to Vincent Dileo, William McDonald, John Sugamele, Robert Montuni, and Vincent Saitta. Also, special thanks to the project manager Sam Bifulco and all the brothers of the Long Island District who helped make this happen.
This page sponsored by Sam Galasso, Beta Delta ’60, Temple. www.APD.org
April 2019, KLEOS-The Magazine of Alpha Phi Delta
I
7
Photo by Fr. Jim Lentini
Photo by Fr. Jim Lentini
Photos by Fr. Jim Lentini
UNDERGRADUATE HIGHLIGHTS
On Saturday, February 2, 2019, the brothers of the Delaware Valley District trekked through an unexpected snowstorm to attend the 2019 Western Leadership Conference, held at Penn StateAltoona. Dressed for business, ready to learn about leading Alpha Phi Delta, the Delaware Valley District contingent posed for this photo late in the day.
ABOVE: The Chapters of the Delaware Valley District gathered for their first ever Chapter vs. Chapter Dokime Jeopardy competition. This hundred question quiz pitted teams of three from each chapter, armed with buzzers and brains, in a contest of Fraternity knowledge . . . and a top prize of $100. Alas Alex Trebek was unavailable to host, so the District Governor filled in! The results: Congratulations to Beta Phi Chapter on being the winners of the competition, earning themselves that first prize. Competing against Beta Phi were teams from Gamma Mu and Epsilon Beta. The final score was: Beta Phi-290; Gamma Mu-120, and Epsilon-110). The event was held at Rowan University on Tuesday, November 27, 2018. Following their competition, all the brothers went for a pizza dinner. ABOVE RIGHT: A proudly victorious Beta Phi Team poses after the Dokime Jeopardy competition with score sheet showing their performance. ABOVE LEFT: The brothers of the District who partook in the Dokime Jeopardy Competition gather for a photo at the pizzeria after the event.
Photo by Fr. Jim Lentini
Photo by Matt Mondany
ABOVE: Midwest District meeting with the District Governor and Assistant District Governor with undergraduates from Delta Upsilon, Beta Omicron and Beta Theta in attendance in January 2019.
Psi Chapter 10-man pledge class for Spring 2019 at Duquesne University in February.
LEFT: Delta Psi (Lynn University) holds its fall initiation November 3, 2018.
Photo by Vince Verdile
This page sponsored by David Alcaro, Lambda ’95, University of Pennsylvania.
8
I
KLEOS-The Magazine of Alpha Phi Delta, April 2019
www.APD.org
Photos by Fr. Jim Lentini Photo by Fr. Jim Lentini
A new item, called a “Brotherhood Banner” has been produced by National Chaplain Lentini for various chapters. The banner is eight feet wide, and just over a foot in height. It features various scenes from the life of a Chapter over the past few years, and serves as both a recent-history and nice recruitment visual for our chapters. Pictured are (top left) Epsilon Nu (Penn State Altoona), (above) Chi (Penn State) and Beta Lambda (St. Francis) posing with their Brotherhood Banners.
The brothers of Epsilon Iota Chapter received their 2018 Chapter Composite during a visit from the National Chaplain on Wednesday, January 23, 2019 at Centenary University. The three-foot by five-foot composite is shown in this photo surrounded by the brothers of the Chapter, in the school-provided Chapter Meeting Room. In the background, you will notice the chapter’s previous year’s composite. In addition to the large composite, each undergraduate brother of the chapter received a personal-size 11" x 17" composite. Following the presentation of the composite the brothers went to lunch at local eatery, Mamas, to celebrate.
BELOW: On Tuesday, January 22, 2019, the Delaware Valley District kicked-off its spring 2019 semester with its first District Meeting of the new year, held at Stockton University and sponsored by Gamma Mu Chapter. Brothers from Beta Phi, Gamma Mu, Delta Delta and Epsilon Beta were present in large numbers along with District Governor Lentini, Assistant District Governor Alec Knaust, and National Historian Ronald Sme.
www.APD.org
April 2019, KLEOS-The Magazine of Alpha Phi Delta
I
9
Kleos Celebrates 90Years BY JOHN RUSSO, PSI ‘72, KLEOS EDITOR
In 1929, at the end of the Roaring 20s, was appointed as Kleos Editor and changed and in Alpha Phi Delta’s 15th year, the frathe format to a magazine size 8 1/2 x 11, ternity decided we needed a national publiwhich it remains today. cation to communicate with our growing The Kleos celebrated its 50th anniversary membership. That year was a boom year as in 1979 with only six volunteer brothers we expanded and brought in five new serving during that period as editors. strong chapters—Phi (Alabama), Chi Anastasio left in 1984 and was replaced by (Penn State), Psi (Duquesne), Omega John Russo, Psi. Russo served until 1990, (Rochester), and Beta Beta (Manhattan). when he was elected as National Vice Peter Sammartino, Eta, developed the first President. working publication, simply called The Andy Cripps, Beta Phi, served for six Magazine of Alpha Phi Delta published in years and was succeeded by Chris December 1929. The Kleos became the magPascocello, Beta Pi. Pascocello served only John Russo, Psi ’72 azine’s name in 1930 (selected as a Greek two years. In 1998, National President Kleos Editor for 28 years word meaning news). The first issue noted Tom Carroll asked John Russo to return our early history and was 32 pages long. The magazine was to handle The Kleos. During the late 1990s and into the 2000s, The Kleos went the first communication with our alumni as existing publiinto the modern electronic era using computerized deskcations were for undergraduates. In the 1930s, The Kleos was published twice a year in a top publishing. In 2005, The Kleos was printed in full color black and white pamphlet size. Succeeding editor for the first time. Design was outsourced to Jody Toth, a Sammartino was first Dr. A.U. N. Camera, Eta, from 1933 professional, with Russo compiling the content and layouts. The fraternity added an electronic version to suppleto 1937 and then Vincent Larcy, Theta Beta, in 1938. The 1940s saw the breakout of World War II. The fra- ment the printed version in 2016. During the decades of the 2000s and 2010s, the fraterternity and The Kleos struggled to survive with dwindling initiations. Several Kleos issues were simply mimeographed nity celebrated the 75th anniversary of The Kleos and the on paper chronicling in the war. The pamphlet 100th anniversary (centennial) of the fraternity. In 2019, Russo is still editor having served for over 28 sized Kleos returned in 1946 and Vince Larcy was the ediyears, the longest serving editor and officer in fraternity tor for the entire decade. In 1956, brother Larcy passed the baton after serving as history. The Kleos celebrates our fraternity history and has editor for 17 years. Stan Raffa, Delta, took over in 1957 been published continuously for 90 years. Not sure what and changed the format to a lower cost tabloid (11 x 17) the future holds as many print media are transitioning to electronic versions. But this writer believes that nothing periodical published three to five times a year. The Kleos remained unchanged through the 1960s with beats the smell and feel of a glossy magazine. You have in Raffa turning over the reigns to Santo Barbarino, Beta your hands the 222nd issue in the 90 years of The Kleos. Sigma, in 1968. Barbarino served until 1978, when he was (The archives of The Kleos can be seen at elected as National President. Neil Anastasio, Theta Beta, www.apd.org/Kleos.)
The Kleos Through the Years—Decade by Decade
The first issue in 1929
JUNE 1933
MAY 1943
SPRING 1956
JANUARY 1965
This page sponsored by Anthony M. Carfaro, Sr., Beta Omicron ’65, Youngstown State University.
10
I
KLEOS-The Magazine of Alpha Phi Delta, April 2019
www.APD.org
BY JOHN RUSSO (KLEOS EDITOR 1984–1990, 1998–NOW)
I remember the day Santo Barbarino asked me to take over The Kleos as its youngest editor in history. I was a recent graduate from NYU, just finished my graduate work in physical therapy, embarking on a new career and thinking about getting engaged to my college sweetheart (we are now on year 39 of marriage). Anyway, with no experience whatsoever and great trepidation, a very brief orientation followed from my dear friend Santo. I knew right away that we needed to get away from the 14inch long newspaper format and move the “look” into a contemporary-feel magazine style. Joe Nunziata, an advertising executive, was my source to discover a designer, Bob Aiese, to assist with page design and layout. Joe handled “advertisements” in a modern contemporary way. We covered things like soliciting life memberships, donations to scholarship, etc. The process of producing a Kleos issue was long and arduous, with each word selected for not only content, but spacing. I felt like I was working at The New Yorker magazine! I spent many nights at the designers apartment reviewing and revising his design well into the early morning (he worked best when it was dark)! Remember, this was well before computers were invented. My issues were never on time, unlike the robotic precision and excellent productions we enjoy from John Russo today. My lack of timeliness got me in trouble many times with Central Office. It was a busy time for me as V.P. of Good & Welfare as well, having also undertaken the first real revision of the Dokime in modern times. The life lessons I learned were priceless, and served me well in my career in healthcare. I would encourage young graduates to take that step out of their comfort zone. The value of volunteerism in can never be learned in a textbook.
In 1984, National President Mike Zerega asked me to take over the reins of The Kleos as its editor from Neil Anastasio. I had no training in journalism, but I loved writing and I loved the fraternity. I felt that I could give it a try. I was honored to follow in the path of only six previous editors since 1929. Back then, developing a Kleos issue was very tedious. Had to type or retype every article and caption, cut out paper photos and ask the printer to intersperse it in the article in specific dimensions. The printer reset all my work and the issue had to reproofed all over again. I was editor for over six years in the 1980s and trying to get out The Kleos every quarter. Not much variety in that period but we were faithful in recording fraternity history for our brothers. I left in 1990 to serve as National Vice President. By 1998, two editors had served in eight years and the position was vacated. National President Tom Carroll approached me about coming back, and I accepted. By 1998, computers were still in their infancy but made much of the work simpler. I acquired Microsoft Publisher to use desktop publishing. Now I could cut and paste from submitted word documents and emails, and add digital photos and resize them to fit the space. From 1990 to 1998, this was a great enhancement and productivity improvement, especially for a volunteer. Soon we added color and used a professional designer. Being The Kleos editor, I have been able to communicate with many brothers of many decades. I was able to record our 20,000th brother, our 100th chapter, our centennial, the Gala, conventions and national councils, our national award winners, and many chapter initiations. It’s been an enjoyable ride, and we are looking for the next volunteer to fill the editor’s shoes. The premise started in 1929 still holds today—The Kleos informs our brothers and records our history. The Kleos has been doing that for 90 continuous years.
• • • • • • •
APD celebrated its 15th anniversary, had 25 chapters and 900 brothers initiated Peter Sammartino was our tenth Grand Consul (now known as National President) The fraternity had one alumni club (Cleveland) and no national awards yet The United States population was 121 million in 48 states The stock market crashed in October, the onset of the Great Depression (the Dow peaked at 381 in September) The Academy Award premiers for movies Communication was done through newspapers, magazines, radio, telephone and telegrams.
FEBRUARY 1978
WINTER 1985
2019
KLEOS REMEMBRANCES
BY NEIL ANASTASIO, PT (KLEOS EDITOR 1978–1984)
1929
KLEOS REMEMBRANCES
WINTER 1999
•
•
• • •
•
APD is 105 years old, has 104 chapters and nearing 21,000 initiated brothers The United States population is 326 million (and 50 states since 1959) The stock market peaked at 26,800 in 2018 It’s a social media world led by Facebook and Twitter Personal computers, tablets, smart phones are dominant methods of communication with the Internet as is television (and radio is still alive). Todd Cusato is our 54th National President
FALL 2005
FEBRUARY 2015
This page is sponsored by Robert Grecco, Beta Mu ’74, DePaul University. www.APD.org
April 2019, KLEOS-The Magazine of Alpha Phi Delta
I
11
2019 DC Gala Fundraiser One of our most magni cent social and fundraising achievements took place on the weekend of April 5th and 6th in Washington DC as Alpha Phi Delta returned to our nation’s capital and the iconic May ower Hotel! In addition to celebrating a reunion of our historic Centennial Gala, complete with fraternal camaraderie among brothers of all decades, the weekend served as an outstanding fundraiser reaching over $323,750 through the benevolence of our brothers! These proceeds will allow the Alpha Phi Delta Foundation to assist our fraternity in many signi cant ways: • 57 Educational Scholarships for deserving brothers and their families • Leadership Seminars for our undergraduates • Kleos publication for all brothers • APD Cares - our newest initiative which helps to provide emergency funds for any brother in dire need
The fun- lled weekend kicked-off on Friday evening April 5th with a fabulous cocktail reception at The May ower. This provided an elegant “party-beforethe-party” for many brothers and their spouses to meet and greet the leaders of our fraternity.
The next morning, Saturday April 6th, the brothers and their families were welcomed by Washington DC’s Cherry Blossoms, and enjoyed a variety of activities throughout the city, organized by the Gala Committee. This included a spectacular Cruise Along the Potomac… two exclusive FBI tours... and many visits to museums and historic sites.
Our Biggest Ever: $323,750! Later that evening, the brothers and their guests danced the night away at the spectacular Gala Dinner-Dance at The May ower! The food, music and fun were embraced by all in attendance, as the event became one of the most memorable in our fraternity’s history.
SPONSORSHIP LEVELS AND PLEDGES: $50,000 Sponsor • Anonymous, Omega Society Pledge $40,000 Sponsor • Larry Kaufman, Beta Xi ‘88
$25,000 Sponsors • Maria Raffa, Omega Society Pledge $20,000 Sponsors • Tony Carfang, Psi ‘69 • John Hadgkiss, Beta Rho ‘66 • Chris Mancusi, Gamma Sigma ‘02 $12,000 Sponsors • Dave D’Eramo, Psi ‘61
$10,000 Sponsors • Joe Caldarella, Beta Sigma ‘73 • Paul Fabrizio, Psi • Alex Franki, Gamma Lambda ‘90 • Nick Franki, Gamma Lambda ‘87 • Frank Perciavalle, Psi ‘78 • New York Alumni Club • Theta Beta Chapter Scholarship
$7,500 Sponsors • Garry Kosteck, Beta Xi ‘71 • Tony Barbieri, Beta Beta ‘59
$5,000 Sponsors • Sal Flagiello, Gamma Rho ‘06 • Brooklyn Alumni Club • North Jersey Alumni Club • Doug Sundo, Psi
$2,500 Sponsors • Neil Anastasio, Theta Beta ‘73 • Andy Cozzolino, Beta Beta ‘86 • Peter Gaudiuso, Theta Beta ‘82 • Mike Young, Beta Eta ‘85 • Al Branchi, Beta Beta ‘60 • Tony Campanella,
$1,500 Sponsors • Ed Curty, Beta Sigma ‘69
$1,250 Sponsors • Carmen DiGiacomo, Psi ‘60
$1,000 Sponsors • John Bruno, Theta Beta ‘87 • Daniel Donovan, Gamma Zeta ‘91 • Jesse Gomez, Beta Sigma ‘95 • Bob Grecco, Beta Mu ‘74 • Michael Iacovelli, Theta Beta ‘81 • Sal Rabasco, Beta Pi ‘86 • Andrew Taddei, Theta Beta, ‘81 • Dr. Robert Cucco, Theta Beta ‘74 • Ben Ruggiero, Delta
$500 Recent Graduate Sponsors $2,000 Sponsors • Harrison Kaufman, Epsilon Lambda ‘15 • Gary Van Schaften, Beta Lambda ‘68
Remember, “Membership in Alpha Phi Delta is eternal and carries with it the obligation of permanent activity and support”. Please renew your vow and donate back so our undergrads can move forward and support all brothers in need! Please contact: Alex Franki, Gamma Lambda ‘90; alexfranki@aol.com (917) 407-8690
Visit: www.apd.org/gala for photos of the Gala and weekend activities
National Council 2019 Convenes at Pace
T
he 2019 National Council meeting of the fraternity was held February 16 in Pleasantville, N.Y. at Pace University hosted by Gamma Iota Chapter and the Gamma Iota Alumni Association. National President Todd Cusato conducted his first council meeting with more than 110 delegates in attendance plus additional brothers in the gallery. National Secretary Paul Zammit was unable to participate due to the birth of his child over the weekend. Gamma Omicron at Stoneybrook was closed. VP of Expansion Zack Bartolotta presented Beta Phi Chapter at Rowan University (Glassboro, NJ) for rechartering with 18 brothers on campus and present at the council meeting. They were placed in the Delaware Valley District. The finance committee and our National Treasurer Rick Trieste presented the 2019 budget with a slight increase in chapter fees to cover an increase in chapter liability insurance. The budget was approved almost unanimously. Mike Young, Beta Eta ’85, was re-elected as the Vice President of Alumni Affairs. John Cangin of Epsilon Zeta (St. Joe’s Brooklyn) was elected as the VP of Undergraduate Affairs. For the first time in many years, no legislation was proposed. Todd Cusato, Beta Sigma ’97, and Sal Flagiello, Gamma Rho ’06, were re-elected as National President and Vice President respectively.
Fr. Lentini displays a copy of the first history of the fraternity written by founder Dominic Ciolli covering the first four years of Alpha Phi Delta.
John Cangin, newly elected VP of Undergraduate Affairs, and Mike Young, re-elected as VP of Alumni Affairs.
Delta Epsilon (John Jay College) Alumni Association at the council meeting. From left: Tyler Romero, Dimo Koutsogiannopolous, Brandon Ditchek, and Angelo Flagiello.
Past National Presidents attend the council meeting: From left: Lt. Col. Manny Rodriguez, Nick Franki, Al Fafara, current president Todd Cusato, Chris Mancusi, and Rob DeVito. The grand council gathers for the photo
This page sponsored by the New York Alumni Club.
14
I
KLEOS-The Magazine of Alpha Phi Delta, April 2019
www.APD.org
Most of the Long Island District contingent pose at National Council. L–R: Vincent DiLeo (Gamma Phi NYIT), Danny Priesel (Epsilon Epsilon-Farmingdale), Allan Matthews (Long Island District Governor), Phil Moccio (Epsilon Epsilon-Farmingdale), Robert Montoni (Gamma Ph- NYIT). ABOVE: Beta Phi brothers had a strong presence at the council meeting to accept their charter. Alumnus Vince Verdile is holding the charter. RIGHT: The executive committee gathered after their Friday night meeting at Pace University. Preliminary business before the council was discussed. All photos by Emil Coscarelli
District Governor Joe Ferretti (bottom left) stands with the New England District chapters at the council.
Our host chapter brothers from Gamma Iota proudly display the National Council banner.
This page is sponsored by the New York Alumni Club. www.APD.org
April 2019, KLEOS-The Magazine of Alpha Phi Delta
I
15
ALPHA PHI DELTA FOUNDATION
Foundation/Meet our Directors BY JOE CALDARELLA, BETA SIGMA ’73
We should all be proud of the roster of distinguished Directors we have overseeing the important work of our APD Foundation. This is the fourth in a series of profiles to let you get to know them better.
Gary Van Schaften, Beta Lambda ’68 Gary grew up in New Jersey after his family immigrated from Holland when he was just four years old. He decided to attend St. Francis College at Loretto, Pa. because it had a good accounting program, it was Catholic, coed and relatively close to home. The Beta Lambda Chapter did not welcome non-Italians until Gary’s sophomore year when he and a number of others broke the barrier, which resulted in Beta Lambda becoming one of the strongest chapters in the fraternity. Gary became chapter president and during his undergraduate days, Beta Lambda won the Most Improved and Most Outstanding chapter awards in successive years. The chapter grew to over 60 brothers and in 1971 Gary was recognized as the Most Outstanding Undergraduate in the national fraternity. After Gary graduated with an accounting degree he remained extremely active with his chapter. He was one of the leaders of Beta Lambda alums who purchased the chapter house from the national fraternity and kept it running for over 20 years. The others included Mike Flott, Claude Fusco, Nick Campasano, Bob Vlasaty and Joe Fitzpatrick. The Beta Lambda house was the only house that the national fraternity ever built for a chapter. Then in 1996, the house tragically burned down over the Christmas break and Gary stepped in again with the ownership group to finance the rebuilding of the house. Unfortunately, approximately ten years later the house was sold to the school as the chapter was not strong enough to sustain it. Gary always enjoys the annual golf, bike and dinner weekend with about 40 of his Beta Lambda brothers, which has been organized by Mike Asselta for the last 25 years. Gary’s leadership and accomplishments for his chapter as both an undergraduate and a graduate were certainly impressive, however he was not particularly active on a national level. That changed about 10 years ago when Tony Carfang asked Gary to join the APD Foundation’s Board of Directors. Since then Gary has served as the Chair of the Finance and Administration Committee utilizing his strong financial expertise to help safeguard and grow the Foundation’s assets. Gary was also the Treasurer for the very successful 2014 Centennial Gala and volunteered again as one of the triheads of the 2019 Gala. As you would expect, Gary’s professional career has been as successful as his APD career. He spent the first 18 years of his work life with Arthur Andersen, one of the nation’s largest public accounting
16
I
KLEOS-The Magazine of Alpha Phi Delta, April 2019
firms at that time. He was based in Houston for seven of those years and New Jersey for the balance, rising to become a partner. In 1989 he moved on to Salomon Brothers as Director of Accounting and then spent 15 years at the CFO level in three different companies. Gary has been an active member of the Knights of Columbus and a volunteer President of the Diabetes Foundation of Northern New Jersey. He retired in 2018 and moved from Wayne, NJ to South Carolina with his wife Judy. Judy and Gary met at St. Francis College and have been married nearly 46 years. They have four sons and four grandchildren as well. Gary’s retirement plans include extensive travel to Europe and across the US, regular visits with their grandchildren, as well as remaining extremely active with his Fraternity. n
Where are They Now Checking in on a recent Scholarship award winner Intashan Chowdhury, Delta Omicron ’14, recently graduated from Rutgers University-Newark with a degree in public administration and has gotten off to a very quick start to his career. As profiled in the North Jersey Record, at 22 years old he became one of the youngest, if not the youngest, town managers in the state of New Jersey. He oversees a staff of 26 and administers a municipal budget of $6.5 million for Prospect Park. Intashan received four APD scholarships in 2015 through 2018. To learn more, go to: https://www.northjersey.com/story/ news/passaic/prospect-park/2018/12/31/prospect-park-administrator-may-youngest-new-jersey/2426165002/
SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE 2019 Deadline May 31 The new Scholarship application is available now at www.apd.org. Just click on the button in the middle of the first page that says, “Click for 2019 APD Scholarship Application.” The new process requires all applications to be submitted online. Letters of recommendation are no longer required. The deadline for applications is May 31, 2019. Any questions, email Charles Fiore, Scholarship Chairman, at Charles@FioreLawyer.com.
www.APD.org
Photo by Brian Cutaia
ALUMNI NEWS
Brian Cutaia speaking for Project9Line.
Project Nine Line BY BRIAN CUTAIA
Long Island Alumni Club Gains Momentum The Long Island Alumni Club has a very long history dating back to 1957. Since its inception, it has remained an active entity through good and bad times. When it was founded, most of the members were alumni from New York City schools that settled onto Long Island. Throughout the years, members became older, retired and moved out of state and it was harder to recruit newer members. In the 2000s, three brothers kept the club alive: Frank Messina, Abdul Gaibi and Todd Cusato. Times were bleak and there were many events that only consisted of these three brothers. At this point in time the only undergraduate entity was Gamma Omicron and hope for the club’s survival seemed dismal. In 2011, dramatic changes happened on Long Island. A local fraternity, Delta Psi Omega, at St. Joseph’s College, wanted to be part of a national organization, and a marriage was born. The current undergraduates along with 80 alumni took our fraternal oath, and the Epsilon Gamma Chapter was born. Two years later, Epsilon Epsilon Chapter at Farmingdale, overseen by Todd Cusato and Frank Messina, was chartered, which was quickly followed by the Briarcliffe College Colony, and Epsilon Kappa at Dowling College. Things seemed to be going well and momentum was building. Long Island became strong enough to become its own district and separated from the New York City District. Things again took a turn for the worse. Dowling College (Epsilon Kappa) and Briarcliffe College both shuttered their doors and went out of business leaving these new prospective entities in the dust. Recently, Gamma Omicron (SUNY Stonybrook) was suspended and became inactive, leaving only Epsilon Gamma and Epsilon Epsilon as active undergraduate chapters. As a result of this misfortune, the Long Island Alumni Club once again became a dismal entity, lacking growth and momentum. Now I am happy to announce that momentum within the Long Island District is building again. Brother Sam Bifulco helped establish a new colony at NYIT. Epsilon Gamma and Epsilon Epsilon are still going strong and the Long Island Alumni Club is once again flourishing. Each meeting brings in new members, and attendance is consistent and growing every month, averaging 10 to 15 brothers. We created the “Joe Randazzo Dinner,” our first annual event posthumously named after a brother who needs no introduction. A genuine icon in our fraternity and a lifelong staple within the Long Island Alumni Club. The event was attended by over 60 brothers and dates which raised over $1,000 for charity and our treasury. A holiday dinner, and a Valentine’s Day dinner were so successful that we reached the max number of attendees and had to turn people away. In the spring time, we are planning an outing to a Long Island Ducks baseball game. The Long Island Alumni Club is thriving. If any brother who resides on Long Island is reading this and wants to participate in any of our activities, please reach out to us on the Facebook group “Alpha Phi Delta-Long Island Alumni Club” or look for into on the Fraternity website: www.apd.org —Submitted by Brian Cutaia
Project9line is a 501C3 nonprofit organization ran by brothers of Alpha Phi Delta. The organization’s mission is to help Veterans reintegrate into society through the arts. The name Project9line is derived from the military protocol known as the “9 Line Med Vac.” Basically what it means is that when there is a casualty on the combat field, the solider calling up for help has to list the 9 most important facts in order to get that casualty the most help possible. At Project9line, we believe Veterans should have a “9 Line” on the home front as well.
Photo by Chris Mancusi
Project9line is a unique experience for Veterans. We aren’t doctors, we aren’t therapist, we are just offering new hobbies and outlets for Veterans to express themselves. We feel that sometimes the best medicine is to just get out of the house and learn something new, something that you enjoy. Statistically 22 veterans a day decide to take their own lives. At Project9line we strive to combat that issue and bring that number to zero. We offer workshops and classes in many different areas of art consisting of but not limited to; guitar workshops, comedy classes, writing classes, (general) art classes, mixed martial arts, yoga and reiki, drum lessons, and monthly wellness. If you are a veteran or know a veteran who you feel can benefit from our services, please reach out to us at www.project9line.org. If you are part of an undergraduate chapter, alumni association, or alumni club and are looking for a new organization to donate to, please consider Project9line. We are based out of Islip, Long Island, New York. Thank you and God Bless our soldiers! Epsilon Iota held a “Founder’s Day” dinner in honor of the 4th anniversary of the induction of the Alpha class. Many alumni were
in attendance for the event that was organized by the chapter. This may be the start of the Epsilon Iota Alumni Association.
www.APD.org
April 2019, KLEOS-The Magazine of Alpha Phi Delta
I
17
Photo by Vince Verdile
Photo by John Russo
Over 60 brothers and spouses attended the Naples Lunch at Bayside Restaurant on March 14 on the 4th stop on the tour. Only the brothers could fit in the photo.
On third stop of the tour, brothers and guests enjoyed lunch at Francesco’s Restaurant in Summerfield March 11.
9th Florida Sunshine Tour March 9–17 The Annual Sunshine Tour is a series of three dinners, two luncheons, and a Leadership Conference at various cities throughout the State of Florida. This year they ran from March 9 through March 17. The first three venues, St. Petersburg, Orlando, and the Villages saw an average of 20 brothers and their families gathered for the feast and comradery. The gatherings sponsored by the Naples AC and the South Florida AC had upwards of 50 people in attendance. Both residents and tourists alike had a great time. Submitted by District Governor Vince Verdile
Photo by Janet Caldarella
Photo by Vince Verdile
Photo by Vince Verdile
at rch 9 in St. Petersburg Tour was Saturday Ma ne shi Sun the on p The first sto t. Bella Brava Restauran
ABOVE: On second stop of the tour, brothers and guests enjoyed lunch at Stefano’s Sicilian Restaurant in Winter Spring March 10.
LEFT: More than 60 people attended the final stop on the 2019 Sunshine Tour. The group had a scrumptious dinner at Gianni’s Italian Restaurant in Pompano Beach.
This page is sponsored by the North Jersey Alumni Club.
18
I
KLEOS-The Magazine of Alpha Phi Delta, April 2019
www.APD.org
Photo by Joe Rahtelli
ALUMNI HIGHLIGHTS On January 29, the Lower Hudson Valley Alumni Club met for the first time this year. The gathering drew over 30 including brothers from six chapters and representing seven decades. The senior member was Tony Spalla, Xi 1951. The undergrads had representatives from Beta Beta, Gamma Iota and our newest colony at SUNY New Paltz. Foundation news was shared, specifically about The Gala and national news was mentioned by Hudson Valley District Governor Jeff Sidoti, Beta Beta 2008.
Photo by John Russo
Photo by Joe Rhatelli
On February 8, the Connecticut Alumni Club met in Wallingford, CT. The gathering drew nearly 30 brothers which included four of the Alpha Group of Gamma Xi and all six of the reactivation group from 2010. CTAC President Matt Schwartz, Gamma Xi 2016 and VP Chris Davis, Gamma Xi 1990, spoke to the group about additional alumni club plans. Connecticut District Governor Joe Ferretti, Gamma Xi 1988, spoke about the spring semester activities of Gamma Xi and Epsilon Lambda.
The Pittsburgh Alumni Club (PAC) held its annual Dinner Dance November 10, 2018, at the Pittsburgh Airport Marriott Hotel. The event celebrated the PAC’s 85th anniversary since its chartering in 1933. Undergrads from Psi (Duquesne) and Delta Upsilon (Robert Morris) joined alumni for a grand celebration of fine dining and dancing. This page sponsored by Anthony Carfang, Psi ’69, Duquesne. www.APD.org
April 2019, KLEOS-The Magazine of Alpha Phi Delta
I
19
Photo by Chris Mancusi
ALUMNI HIGHLIGHTS
The Staten Island Alumni Club (SIAC) Colony holds another successful event at Joyce’s Tavern in the Eltingville section of Staten Island. The club had pledges from Gamma Kappa and Epsilon Zeta as well as undergraduates from Epsilon Zeta, Gamma Kappa and Gamma Sigma. In November, Dr. Ted Strange, Beta Beta ’78 (Manhattan), was running in his 25th marathon in New York City when he heard someone yelling for help. A woman from Minnesota, also running in the marathon, suffered a blood clot in an artery and had collapsed. Thanks to Dr. Strange, who stopped running his own race and performed CPR, the 41-year-old woman was revived. She credits Dr. Strange for saving her life and being her hero. Brother Strange lives in Staten Island.
The Youngstown Alumni Club held its Annual Christmas Party at Brother George Guarnieri’s Belleria on December 3. John Morey (left) received the Harry V. Jannetti Unsung Hero Award for his many contributions to the Youngstown Alumni Club. Dan Mamula (right) was awarded the Judge Joseph Donofrio Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions to our beloved Fraternity and the community at large. YAC President Dan Thomas is the presenter.
Brothers of Delta Chi Chapter (Colorado) celebrate Wilbur Currie’s (Delta Chi ’09) wedding to Taylor Heist. Pictured in group: L–R: Alex Riedy, Zach McConnel, Jon Campbell, Jacob Schwartz, Oakleigh Thorne, Colin Muir, Ryan Seastrom, Darren Mekkawy, Jake Bell, Baker Loch, Darren Rabie, Casey Mulderrig, Evan Collins.
20
I
KLEOS-The Magazine of Alpha Phi Delta, April 2019
The wedding of Tony Ceraso’s (Beta Sigma ‘73) son on February 23rd in Vero Beach, Florida brought four Beta Sigma brothers together again. From left to right: Ralph “Zeke” Parmegiani, Tony Ceraso, Frank Marino, Joe Caldarella.
Nick Barr of Delta Upsilon wed Kayla Henry with fellow alumni brothers Mike Cully, Patrick Monagle, Aaron Schmitt, Micheal Ditommaso and Matthew Modany in attendance.
www.APD.org
ALUMNI HIGHLIGHTS Promoted to US Army Colonel On December 8, 2018, over 90 guests were in attendance for the promotion ceremony for now Colonel Michael Morris, Gamma Xi 1988. Mike has served our country for 31 years, as part of the active duty U.S. Army, the Army National Guard, and currently the U.S. Army Reserve. He enlisted before starting college and served in the Medical Corps as an enlisted soldier transitioning to the Cavalry and Armor Corps upon earning an officer commission. He served on active duty on three separate occasions, totaling over seven years including having to withdraw from Southern Connecticut State University in order to deploy for Operation Desert Shield/Storm/Sabre. He deployed a second time on the Kuwait–Iraq border in 1993 during Operation Intrinsic Action. Brother Morris has served as a commissioned officer for the past 27 years and has received 14 awards/decorations during his service. More than 20 brothers, their families and guests were in attendance, which included Mike’s brother Tony Morris, Delta Theta 1992. The final formal toast of the night was delivered by PFC Matthew Rahtelli, Beta Beta 2014, recently enlistee and graduate of the Army’s Combat Engineer School.
Photo by Joe Rahtelli
Michael Morris, Gamma Xi 1988,
Photo by Frank Messina
Photo by Vince Verdile
The South Florida Alumni Club (SFAC) held its annual Christmas Party at the home of Jack and Yara Consiglio on December 8. Also in attendance were undergrads from Delta Psi Chapter at Lynn University.
Photo by Karen Panella
This past December, Beta Eta pledge class (PG #42) reunited for its 25th Anniversary into the fraternity in Atlantic City. Frank Messina writes, “Ten of us crossed over in 1993; 25 years later eight of us had a weekend in Atlantic City and had a great time reliving their youths with a nap or two thrown in for good measure. We managed to take a before and after picture in similar poses.” From left to right in the 2018 picture. Howie Burstein, David Ricotta, Peter Francese, Anthony Paladino, Michael O'Hanlon, Dominick Davi, James Beggan and Frank Messina.
The second annual Leon Panella Memorial Soppressata Making Party was held January 5, 2019 at the Treesdale Community Center. For about 15 years, our late Psi brother Leon Panella held a party to make Italian Soppresatta at his home. Leon passed away in 2015 and Psi alumni Doug Sundo and Raymo Santilli have kept the tradition alive in Pittsburgh. This year brothers Mike Young, Mike Iacovelli and Pete Gaudiuso travelled from the Brooklyn AC to attend and joined a group of Pittsburgh AC members to make sausage and Soppresatta.
This page sponsored by Dave Alcaro, Lambda ’95, University of Pennsylvania. www.APD.org
April 2019, KLEOS-The Magazine of Alpha Phi Delta
I
21
ALUMNI HIGHLIGHTS
Photo by Vince Verdile
Photo by Vince Verdile
BELOW: South Florida District Governor Vince Verdile (center) celebrates Columbus Day with brothers Frank Fezza (Beta Eta ’60) and Jerry Brillante (Beta Eta ’61) and their wives on Saturday, October 16, 2018, at The Villages in Florida. On Vince’s right is his mother, Rose Verdile (widow of Beta Delta brother Ben Verdile).
Photo by Matt Modany
ABOVE: The South Florida AC holds a Columbus Day dinner at Massimo's Italian Restaurant in Boynton Beach, Fla. on Sunday, October 7, 2018. A number of National Officers were present including National President Todd Cusato, VP for Alumni Affairs Mike Young, and VP for Cultural Affairs Emilio Imbro. There were also two Past National Presidents, Bob Valeriano, and Chris Mancusi. Brothers and pledges from our Delta Psi Chapter at Lynn University, along with a prospective pledge from Johnson and Wales University, were also present at the dinner.
The Pittsburgh Alumni Club enjoyed a wonderful Founder’s Day dinner November 2 at Scoglio’s Restaurant in Pittsburgh. About 30 brothers, young and old, attended and dined under the leadership of PAC President Nick Bell. These six alumni were all Psi classmates from the 1970s. From Left: Frank Goron, Cal Shipley, Dave Cech, Dave Masquelier, Jerry Smulski, and John Russo.
Carmen DiGiacomo, Psi ’60 (Duquesne), was inducted into the North Catholic High School Hall of Fame in September 2018. A 1959 graduate of North Catholic, he was recognized for his service work in his community, support of veterans causes and his volunteer work at North Catholic. In the photo, Carmen accepts his Hall of Fame plaque from his presenter, Dr. Ken Rozycki (right).
Photo by Emil Coscarelli
The North Jersey Alumni Club held its annual Founder's Day dinner on Friday November 2, 2018 at Amici's Restaurant in Linden, NJ. The club has held the event every year since 2008 when it started as a tiny gathering. Each year the attendance has progressively improved and not by accident. Both the dinner and the company are terrific each year and this year was no exception. The event was attended by 56 people, the largest gathering the club has ever had for this event. It was attended by current National President Todd Cusato, National VP Sal Flagiello, three PNPs, VP Alumni Affairs Mike Young, Outstanding Alumnus Jeff Breen and several members of the Brooklyn Alumni Club and the APD Foundation. Brother Len Cilli chaired the event and did his usual excellent job and everyone had a great time! This page sponsored by Peter Gaudiuso, Theta Beta ’82, New York University.
22
I
KLEOS-The Magazine of Alpha Phi Delta, April 2019
www.APD.org
IN MEMORIAM Honorable Alfred J. Di Bona Jr., Beta Delta ’54 (Temple), passed away October 17, 2018. He was a Philadelphia lawyer, educator and long serving judge in the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas. Judge DiBona graduated from Temple School of Business in 1957 and Temple University School of Law in 1960. After graduating he taught in the School District of Philadelphia for three years. In 1964 he joined the Philadelphia District Attorneys Office in its Appeal Division and in 1966 went into private practice. He was a hearing examiner for the Pennsylvania Liquor Board from 1973 to 1975. He became a Judge of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia County in 1976. He presided over Criminal, Civil and Family Court matters during his tenure on the Court. In 1984, Judge DiBona was appointed Motions Judge for the Civil Trial Division and served in this capacity for four years. Judge DiBona was a lecturer in law in the Department of Real Estate and Legal Studies for Temple University’s School of Business and Management for 22 years. Judge DiBona retired in 2012 after 36 years on the bench. He has been a member of the Delaware Valley Alumni Club of Alpha Phi Delta for more than 50 years. Donald L. “Don” DeRespiris, Beta Beta (Manhattan), age 80 of Concord, Ohio, died May 11, 2018. Mr. DeRespiris was a retired Research Chemist for Eltech; prior to that he worked at the former Diamond Shamrock. Frank Imperatore, Psi (Duquesne), passed away October 30, 2018, in Canonsburg, Pa. at the age of 76. Frank was a horse man. As a young man, he was an accomplished equestrian. As a 21-year-old, he appeared on the ABC’s Wide World of Sports winning the competition in style. Frank also won the Pennsylvania Big Jump. As his notoriety grew, Frank was asked to join the United States Equestrian Team, but unfortunately Frank was unable to compete as his horse, Grey Aero, was not physically fit to perform. After returning from competition, Frank was a respected owner, trainer, and breeder of thoroughbred race horses. Later in life, Frank was employed by the Canon McMillan School District where he touched the lives of countless students. Carl A. Gianelli, Beta Rho (Gannon), passed away December 31, 2018 in Pittsburgh at age 78. Carl worked as a District Manager of Boehringer Ingelheim in pharmaceuticals, he also served his country Honorably in the U.S. Army as a Captain during the Vietnam Era. Carl was a founder of Beta Rho Chapter He had a great love for fishing, golf, sports and attending his grandchildren’s activities. Richard M. Cutrone, Beta Xi ’73 (NJIT), passed away January 13, 2019 in Poughkeepsie, NY. He was 64 years old and worked as an engineer for IBM. Donald Gallucci, Psi ’53 (Duquesne), passed away on October 17, 2018 at 85 years young. After graduating from Duquesne in 1956, he then spent two years in the US Army at Ft. McClellend, AL. He worked for many years in the food service industry as a manager and sales rep. for Heinz, Sarah Lee, Monarch, Edwards Pie, and Sysco. After retiring, he worked for eight years as a driving instructor and 10 years as a driver for Orleans Auto Supply. Donald P. Sebastian, Psi ’51 (Duquesne), passed from this life into the next on September 14, 2018 at 86 years young. He was a respected and admired businessman who operated in Pittsburgh for over 50 years.
Donato “Dan” DeFelice, Psi ’57 (Duquesne), passed away February 12 in Pittsburgh at the age of 88. Dan was a beloved math professor at Duquesne University. He served as the faculty moderator and the chapter brought him in as as an alumnus (Dan earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Pittsburgh). But he was forever after a true brother and a member of the Pittsburgh AC. Dan was a lifelong season ticket holder of Duquesne’s basketball teams and an avid fan of the Pittsburgh sports teams. Tayfun Yalcin, TB ’92 (NYU), died November 25, 2018. Nicholas Tsoudis, TB ’90 (NYU), died September 19, 2018. He was 49 and living in Arlington, Va.
Vaping: What you don’t know WILL hurt you At last year’s summer convention, we had the pleasure of meeting many of our outstanding undergraduate brothers, a fine group of young men. However, the number of undergraduates vaping both surprised us and scared us. As members of the Municipal Alliance, an organization to raise awareness about underage drinking and drug abuse, we have had extensive education about the dangerous and very addictive impacts of vaping. A single vape pod contains as much nicotine as 20 regular cigarettes! And worse, the e-cigarettes may deliver nearly six times the amount of nicotine a tobacco cigarette would. Some commercially available electronic cigarette liquids contain enough alcohol concentrations to significantly impair users’ motor skills. Some e-solutions have been found by a lab investigation to damage cells in ways that could lead to cancer. Vaping is a misnomer. E-cigarettes produce an aerosol—not harmless “water vapor.” Aerosolization occurs by combustion of e-juice that creates a suspension of tiny particles that “vapers” subsequently inhale into their lungs. These tiny particles absolutely are NOT harmless, and some of the substances that have been found in the aerosol are: l
l
l
l l l
Nicotine– one “Juul” pod contains as much nicotine as 1 entire pack of cigarettes! Ultrafine particulate matter from vaping gets lodged and builds up in tiny alveoli in the lungs making it hard to breathe over time. Diacetyl– a flavoring that has caused a lung disease (“popcorn lung”), similar to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Volatile organic compounds and antifreeze Known cancer-causing agents Lead, mercury, nickel, tin
Do you want any of this in your body? If you vape, your answer would be “yes,” I like antifreeze in my lungs. E-Cigarettes are Not Regulated. The FDA is still in the process of vetting data about e-cigarettes and no regulations regarding safety, ingredients, advertising, etc. have yet to be implemented. Thus, other than scientists who independently are testing ingredients and health effects, there is actually no way to know exactly what chemicals and particles you are inhaling into your lungs. The e-cigarette companies most certainly do not have your health in their best interests; they just want your money! If this has not convinced you that vaping is harmful, please do some additional research to learn more, your health depends upon it, you have your entire life ahead of you—make it a heathy one. If you or someone you know has developed an addiction to nicotine, call 1-800-QUIT-NOW. —Submitted by Mike Iacovelli, Theta Beta and Ralph Parmegiani, BAC. For more information, email (Michael.iacovelli@gmail.com)
This page sponsored by the Brooklyn Alumni Club. www.APD.org
April 2019, KLEOS-The Magazine of Alpha Phi Delta
I
23
ALPHA PHI DELTA FOUNDATION 257 E. Camden Wyoming Ave., Suite A Camden, DE 19934
Non Profit Organization U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
Permit No. 222
CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED
Midland, MI
Parents: While your son is in college, The Kleos is sent to his home address. If your son is no longer in college or living at home, please send his new address to the return address listed above. Alumni may do the same for change of address. Or you may email address updates to updates@apdfoundation.org.
CONVENTION 2019 Consider Joining Us at Convention The Alpha Phi Delta Summer Convention is NOT a business event. It’s a social gathering to celebrate fraternity, enjoy dinners together, socialize in the hospitality room, celebrate brothers who have 50 or more years in the Fraternity and honor brothers who have served in the military. The convention offers entertainment and is open to all brothers and their families—yes, it is very family friendly. Meet new brothers or reunite with classmates.
2019 Convention Activities: Nightly dinners, trivia night, Murder Mystery Dinner, hospitality room open nightly, Alumnus Emeritus brothers luncheon Friday, Military Brothers Recognition cocktail reception Friday, golf, Alumni vs. Undergraduate Softball Game, bocce, picnic lunch Saturday, memorial mass in honor of deceased brothers, Grand Awards Dinner Saturday.
For more information and registration, check https://www.apd.org/convention2019.html
The Alpha Phi Delta 2019 national summer convention will be held August 7–11 in Lancaster, Pa. at the Double Tree Resort.