CURLEY Magazine Summer 2019 by Joseph

A Magazine for Alumni, Parents and Friends

Building on the Cornerstones of Curley

Summer 2019

ARCHBISHOP CURLEY HIGH SCHOOL

SUMMER 2019

FROM THE PRESIDENT

CURLEY is published through the Office of Advancement for Alumni, Parents and Friends of Archbishop Curley High School 3701 Sinclair Lane, Baltimore, MD 21213 410-485-5000 • Fax: 410-485-1090 www.archbishopcurley.org

FEATURES

Dear Alumni and Friends of Curley: It is a reality that many Curley graduates rarely get back to their alma mater. That is likely true for most alumni and their schools. There are many reasons: distance, busy schedules, career and family, the thought “I won’t know anyone there anymore,” and all these reasons contribute to that reality. It is always enjoyable, then, to observe that alumnus who comes back for his 50th reunion, or just decides to stop by as he passes through Baltimore, and watch his reaction to things that are the same, as well as to the many things that have changed since he graduated. All of us in the Advancement Office enjoy giving those tours, and sharing in those conversations. This issue of CURLEY will bring you news of some long-standing events, such as graduation, concerts and athletic competitions, as well as reports on some newer parts of the calendar, such as Cornerstone Day. So many of these occasions bring members of the Curley Family together, and that is always a good thing. I would also like to add my piece to one of the articles, namely the retirement of David Stauffer after 39 years leading the Curley instrumental ensembles. I was also a young member of the faculty when Mr. Stauffer came on the scene, and over the years we have all witnessed how he has expended tremendous energy to grow the music program, to lead the groups to consistently high recognition, to send countless young men into music studies and professional music careers, and to form bonds with those former students that have lasted, and will last into the future. Thank you, David, for what you have contributed to Curley, and may the Lord bless you and guide you in your well-deserved retirement. I hope as you read through these pages you can vicariously enjoy the past semester’s happenings, they take us from celebrating with the Class of 1969 to sending off the Class of 2019, from solemn moments to partying at the Gala. If you happen to be one of those graduates who hasn’t been at Curley for a long time please know you are always welcome, and we look forward to seeing you at a special event or when you simply stop by to take a look. Summer is upon us, but there won’t be many lazy days here at this famous corner of Erdman and Sinclair. Thank you for your support, both in maintaining the traditions, and in building for the future.

PRESIDENT Fr. Donald Grzymski, OFM Conv. ’70 VICE PRESIDENT FOR ADVANCEMENT Barry Stitz ’87 EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF ENROLLMENT MANAGEMENT AND MARKETING Jeremy Joseph ’96

Fr. Donald Grzymski, OFM Conv. ’70 President

CURLEY Magazine | Summer 2019

The David Stauffer Legacy

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Kathleen Wandishin OFFICE HOURS 7:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Brian Sommers

Dan Herr

Archbishop Curley High School, a Roman Catholic college preparatory school rooted in the Franciscan tradition, develops great men. With the support of the entire Archbishop Curley Family, each Curley Man is challenged to reach his maximum academic and personal potential in a safe and nurturing environment leading him to be a man of faith, character, discipline and service to others. Please send comments to the address above or alumni@archbishopcurley.org

Cornerstone Day

DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI Craig Baldwin ’11

MISSION STATEMENT OF ARCHBISHOP CURLEY HIGH SCHOOL

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF ADVANCEMENT CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER Greg Malanowski ’70

Curley Currents

Advancement Notes

Friar’s Perspective

Alumni News

Faculty News

Sports Shorts

Golf Tournament

DEPARTMENTS archbishopcurley.org

CURLEY | CURRENTS

CURLEY | CURRENTS DEMARCO NAMED TEACHER OF THE YEAR

MU ALPHA THETA INDUCTION

COUNTDOWN TO COMMENCEMENT The Class of 2019 celebrated 100 Mu Alpha Theta is the international honor society for mathematics. To be eligible nights to graduation at the Countdown to Commencement Dinner on for membership in the Curley Chapter, a student must have completed three February 21st. Parker Boomer ’19, years of college preparatory honors mathematics courses and be enrolled in who will be attending West Point PreCalculus, Honors Calculus, AP Calculus or AP Statistics. The student must in the fall, gave the Countdown to maintain at least a B+ average in these courses. Commencement Speech after dinner. Thirty-seven students were inducted into Mu Alpha Theta on December 20, 2018. His words emphasized the growth he The chapter moderator is Ms. Carrie Jenkins. experienced at Curley as well as his gratitude for the faculty, staff, parents and, above all, his classmates.

CURLEY SENIOR RECEIVES THE MOTHER MARY LANGE AWARD

CURLEY Magazine | Summer 2019

Each year, the American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese recognizes students who are doing well in advanced Spanish classes with membership into the Sociedad Honoraria Hispanica (Spanish Honor Society). This year, Ms. Cheryl Jose presented certificates and patches to fourteen Spanish IV students.

Congratulations Mr. DeMarco!

Archbishop William Lori paid a visit to Curley on January 24th, led the community in prayer, offered an encouraging reflection, and visited several classes. Before leaving, the Archbishop also granted a day off (a nice tradition of a Bishop’s prerogative). Bishop Mark Brennan, Auxiliary Bishop of Baltimore and Vicar of the Eastern Vicariate, spent the morning of April 5th visiting a number of theology classrooms and engaging the students about many topics affecting their lives. He also attended the Curley Gala.

Terence is a member of St. Francis Xavier Parish. The Mother Mary Lange Award honors those who make a contribution to the life of their parish.

The Lawrence Cardinal Shehan Chapter of the National Honor Society inducted 3 seniors and 33 juniors during Mass on Friday, February 2nd. Fr. Donald Grzymski OFM Conv ’70 was the celebrant and homilist. The National Honor Society is an organization that recognizes students who achieve academically, are involved in the school and exhibit qualities of scholarship, service, leadership, and character.

About this year’s winner, one student said: “He teaches class with passion and really cares about his students. He is always willing to help and make sure we understand.”

SPANISH NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY

BISHOPS VISIT CURLEY

Terence Hare ’19 received the Mother Mary Lange Youth Award for 2019. Archbishop Lori presented him with the award at a Mass celebrating the 125th Anniversary of the Josephite Order. Terence served that Mass, which took place at the Basilica of the Assumption of Mary in downtown Baltimore.

NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY INDUCTION

On Friday, February 1st, Mr. Michael DeMarco was presented the 2019 Barry Brownlee Excellence in Teaching Award. Mr. DeMarco has been a science instructor at Curley for 44 years. He has held numerous positions at the school and moderates the Chess Club and the Biology Club.

CURLEY JUNIOR ON A SCOUTING TRIP TO KENYA James Sandoval (pictured at the far left) is a Life Scout from Troop 855 in Severna Park. He was part of a trip to Kenya, organized by Servant Forge in partnership with the Baltimore Area Council of the Boy Scouts of America. The scouts and their adult leaders spent time with Kenyan scouts and visited landmarks in the country, participated in service projects and celebrated Founder’s Day at the site of Lord Baden-Powell’s home and grave.

Bishop Denis Madden, Auxiliary Bishop Emeritus of Baltimore and the Urban Vicar, also attended Curley Gala XXIV and said the blessing for the meal.

FRIAR CHRIS ORDAINED A PRIEST On April 27th in his hometown of Chicopee, Massachusetts, Friar Christopher Dudek OFM Conv. was ordained a priest by Bishop Mitchell Rozanski. The ceremony took place in St. Stanislaus Basilica where Fr. Chris had his first Mass later that day. Fr. Chris is the Campus Minister and a theology instructor at Curley. He celebrated Mass for the faculty, staff and students on April 30th.

CONNOR CHAIKOWSKY NAMED YOUNGARTS MERIT WINNER IN CLASSICAL PERFORMANCE Connor Chaikowsky ’19 was named a 2019 National YoungArts Foundation Merit Winner in Classical Performance. Selected from a competitive pool of applicants, Chaikowsky was recognized for his outstanding artistic achievements and joined 710 of the nation’s most promising young artists from 44 states across the literary, visual, design and performing arts world. Winners receive cash awards of up to $10,000, opportunities to participate in YoungArts programs nationwide and engage with renowned mentors, and guidance in taking important steps toward achieving their artistic goals.

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CURLEY | CURRENTS

CURLEY | CURRENTS A SENIOR’S PART IN FIGHTING SKIN CANCER A ceremony took place at The Curley Bowl to celebrate the installation of new sunscreen dispensers on campus. Senior Brayden Wise helped secure the funding for this project through the Kelly’s Dream Foundation. Brayden worked with Kelly’s Dream this year as part of his Mission 4 Service project. Curley is the first high school in Baltimore to have dispensers installed on campus.

CLASS OF 2020 JUNIOR PROM Dressed up and accompanied by their dates, the juniors celebrated prom at Sparrows Point Country Club on Saturday, May 11th. A buffet dinner started the evening, then the music began and couples took to the dance floor. Ms. Kangas and Mr. Badley, moderators of the class, saw to it that the juniors had a great time.

CAMPBELL HIRED AS INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC DIRECTOR Christopher Campbell was named as the school’s Instrumental Music Director effective July 1st, replacing David Stauffer who retired this year. Campbell comes to Curley from Howard High School where he has served as Band Director since 2002. Campbell earned a BS in Musical Education from the University of Maryland - College Park and continued his graduate studies at Johns Hopkins University’s Peabody Institute.

SPRING CONCERTS The Choirs and Bands held their annual spring concerts to rave reviews by those in attendance. During that week, the Art Show consisting of student drawings, paintings and photographs, was on display in the main lobby. Everyone enjoyed the work of Curley’s fine arts students.

CURLEY BANDS TAKE NASHVILLE! The 2019 Band Trip took Curley students and chaperones on an 11-hour bus ride to Nashville, Tennessee and the Performing Arts Consultants Festival. The Concert Band and the Jazz Ensemble won Gold in the adjudications. The Drumline, under first-time director Nicholas Breidigam, won Silver. Senior Michael Gardiner, playing soprano sax, won the Soloist Award. Curley was awarded Grand Champion for the highest combined instrumental score. Students saw a show at the Grand Ole Opry and got a backstage tour. They visited the Country Music Hall of Fame and The Hermitage, the home of President Andrew Jackson.

Mothers and sons walked into a carnival atmosphere for the 2019 Mother Son Dinner-Dance.

THE CLASS OF 2019 BECOMES ALUMNI Graduation encompassed a number of events for the Class of 2019, beginning with the senior assembly and barbeque and including senior prom, the Baccalaureate Mass at the Basilica of the Assumption and concluding with Commencement Exercises at the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen. Many awards were presented along the way for the achievements of the seniors over their four years at Curley. The School Spirit Award was presented to Tobi F. Majekodunmi who will be attending UMBC. The School Service Award was given to Parker L. Boomer who will be attending West Point. Anthony S. Dragisics was chosen as The Curley Man of the Year. Anthony will be attending Villanova.

(L to R pictured with Fr. Donald) Seniors Anthony Dragisics, Kyrian Elekwachi, and Tobi Majekodunmi were honored at the 27th Annual Distinctive Scholars Convocation held at Archbishop Spalding High School. The Distinctive Scholars Convocation recognizes the top academic students from high schools of the Archdiocese of Baltimore.

The Class of 2019 exceeded previous classes by earning over $18 Million in scholarships. Congratulations new alumni! The commencement speaker was Dr. Timothy E. Trainor, president of Mount St. Mary’s University in Emmitsburg, MD.

The 3rd Annual Spring College Fair was held in March. Students eagerly engaged the representatives in learning about their institutions.

CURLEY Magazine | Summer 2019

archbishopcurley.org

CURLEY | FRIAR’S PERSPECTIVE

ADVANCEMENT

NOTES Curley Gala Sets Record

The 24th Annual Curley Gala Dinner Auction and Raffle raised $248,000, the highest total ever. This success reflects the generosity of those who support the

We thank all those who made Curley Gala XXIV a success: • Our Gala Sponsors (listed on our website under Giving…Sponsors) • Our Chair Couples – Lisa and Frank Giampa, Laura and Jeff Knapp ’88 • Our Gift-Gathering Party Hosts • Our Student, Parent, Alumni and Faculty/Staff Volunteers • Our Gift Donors • Our 518 Attendees • Our Decorating Committee • Our Gala Raffle Participants • Our auctioneers, Jonathan Melnick and Dave Hartman • A ndy and Michelle White (Don White’s Timonium Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram) for donating the Jeep Renegade that was raffled that evening.

CURLEY Magazine | Summer 2019

mission of Archbishop Curley High School. The photos on this page capture the spirit of the evening.

By FR. GERRY WATERMAN OFM CONV.

hen Father Donald asked me to write the Friar’s Perspective for the summer issue, I winced! After all, I have been gone from Curley High School since 1981. My tenure there was short-lived, just over a year, between my undergraduate and graduate studies. But I accepted immediately, treasuring the opportunity to reflect on that apostolic year at Curley and the wonderful students and community of friends who had a lasting impact on my future.

CURLEY POWER BREAKFAST 3 The third installment of the Archbishop Curley Power Breakfast was held on May 7, 2019. The guest speaker was Mr. Bill McCarthy, Executive Director of Catholic Charities. Bill is a 2019 Baltimore Business Journal Power 10 Recipient. He spoke about his journey from banking to Catholic Charities, his desire to unite faith and action, and the challenges Catholic Charities face, especially in Baltimore City. Thank you to Carmine Mistichelli ’93 and Fidelity Mechanical Services & Building Automation Systems for sponsoring the event. Thanks also to Ernie Paszkiewicz ’75 and Gross Mendelsohn for hosting the event in their new office space.

I graduated from St Hyacinth CollegeSeminary in Granby, MA with a BA in Philosophy and a minor in Mathematics. It was that minor that became major at Curley, where I taught Algebra I, Algebra II, Trigonometry and Intro to Algebra and Geometry. I had additional responsibilities, as Assistant JV Basketball Coach and capturing and providing photography for the school newspaper. My proverbial plate was full. Like many rookie teachers, I was usually only a few chapters ahead of the students. I used an overhead projector in my classroom which encouraged a face-to-face dialogue with my students, thus nipping any discipline problems in the bud. With 5 or 6 classes per day, there were usually a plethora of overhead transparencies to clean at the end of the day! Those students who stood out from the rest (and seemed to crave discipline!) were always courteously invited to return to my class after school

for the task of cleaning the day’s transparencies. What began as tedious work for one or two students eventually became a community effort, since the JV team often came to my classroom before practice and joined in on the “fun.” The community soon grew to be a small village, where music, snacks, games, faith issues and life discussions became common practice. I didn’t know it then, but the seeds of campus ministry were sown in that classroom. One of those JV-ers and his family eventually became close friends, and I went on to celebrate his marriage, his cousins’ marriages, the baptisms of his 3 children, and now I am referred to as “the family minister!” Since then, I spend a weekend prior to Christmas each and every year in Harford County with the “family.” Over the many years after I left Curley, I lost my full head of hair and my body aged with as much grace as possible. I was serving as pastor in a parish in Southwestern CT, minding my own business, when our Provincial Superior made me an offer I couldn’t refuse: a quick trip to a campus at a small college in Central North Carolina. After a brief visit in mid-April (where

spring was in full bloom compared to Western CT), I fell in love. Elon University would become my “home parish” for the next 11 years! Being with young adult Catholics once again was pure delight; this time, in a university setting, where parents don’t and CAN’T force their children to attend Mass, or go on retreat, or volunteer for service projects or (God forbid) go to confession. I was pleasantly surprised with the number of students participating in Catholic events, and I was very grateful for the many opportunities I had to nurture faith and cultivate discipleship, and help form future leaders for the church! During those years, the growth of the campus ministry was slow but steady. I developed a kinship with the university president. We shared food, wine and great conversations. One day, a few students came to me requesting a Eucharistic Chapel on campus. I directed them immediately to my friend, the president. Hours later, he phoned me and said: “Father, we need to have a Eucharistic Chapel on campus!” I answered, “Yes, Leo, indeed we do!” And the next day, we went out walking and searching for a suitable on-campus location. I’ll never forget the dedication a month or two later. Nor will I forget the generosity and dedication of some wonderful people who backed the establishment of the Newman Center … because that’s what the students needed and wanted!

venue, Syracuse University, after the sudden death of one of my dear confreres, former Curley Principal, Fr. Linus DeSantis, OFM Conv. At my initial meeting with the university Chancellor and President, he handed me an ornament for my desk, which was a triangular yellow sign on a pedestal. It read: “…and this would be good for the students because…?” The sign will remain on my desk throughout my tenure at Syracuse as a constant reminder that I am here for the students, to walk with them on their journey of faith, to bring them closer to God and to the church, and to form a strong Catholic community of believers. Thank you, Archbishop Curley High School, for planting the seed, and allowing me now to bloom where I am planted! The overhead transparencies may be a relic of the past, but bringing a community together in common mission continues to inspire my work and strengthen my faith.

Three years ago, I was asked to assume the Catholic Chaplaincy at a larger

archbishopcurley.org

CORNERSTONE DAY 2019

DR. DAVID LUMSDEN ’79: UNSUNG ALUMNUS THE 2019 CORNERSTONE HONOREES

Joe and Arleen Citro have been generous contributors to Curley for more than 20 years. In 2007 they began focusing on a scholarship with the goal of it reaching $100,000. It has, in fact, exceeded that goal, and its growth has been shepherded by this couple and their desire to help young men to attend Curley. Mr. Citro has also been a driving force in the formation of Friar Nation, the live-streaming of athletic and special events so members of the Curley Family who cannot attend in person can still enjoy and participate. Consistently, when Joe and Arleen Citro have seen needs they have stepped forward to help.

By Fr. Donald Grzymski OFM Conv. ’70

or the second year Curley celebrated Cornerstone Day, commemorating the formal blessing of the building and laying of the cornerstone by Archbishop (later Cardinal) Lawrence J. Shehan on April 17, 1962. This year the celebration was moved to April 2nd because of the Gala and Easter holiday. Leading up to April 2nd there was a series of video tributes that were shared digitally with the Curley community, recognizing both past and present staff members, as well as a number of graduates who have made a difference in the school’s history. Many students and donors joined in by sending tribute messages of why they believe a particular person is a Curley “cornerstone.” The student body joined in the Cornerstone Day celebration through participation at a special Mass when honorees were presented with their awards, and with a dessert treat at lunchtime. Fr. Michael Heine, OFM Conv., the Vicar Provincial of the Friars’ Our Lady of the Angels Province (pictured to the right) and a former guidance director at Curley, celebrated the Mass. In his homily he reminded everyone of the innate goodness of each person, made in God’s image, and encouraged all to develop that goodness during their school years and beyond. The Mass was live-streamed giving those who could not be present an opportunity to celebrate.

JOE ’69 & ARLEEN CITRO: SCHOLARSHIP DONORS

THE CURLEY ALUMNI ASSOCIATION: MISSION SUPPORT Since its inception during the 1980-81 school year, the Alumni Association and its volunteers have held meetings, social gatherings, fund-raisers, an annual Memorial Mass, and assisted with class reunions. One of the longest running Alumni efforts is the Targarona Memorial Golf Tournament, which has endowed the Alumni Scholarship Fund, now worth over $260,000. Over the years the efforts of the Alumni Association and their volunteers grew to support the work of the Curley Advancement Office, to what is today a joint effort to keep the brotherhood alive among Curley’s graduates, and to encourage their support of Curley projects. The award was accepted by current president, Dr. Stephen Baxter ’06 (center) , and the past presidents in attendance.

MR. RICHARD “COACH” PATRY: LONG SERVING FACULTY & STAFF Beginning in 1962 when he accepted a position to teach and coach at Curley, Mr. Richard Patry, better known as “Coach,” grew into a legend. Mr. Patry taught physical education and sometimes biology, coached JV basketball for 9 seasons, and varsity football for 29 years. While some of Coach’s methods can be described as “old school,” graduates go out of their way to greet Coach, and no alumni event is complete without Coach stories—and preferably Coach himself. Since retirement Coach has often stopped by, in his words, “to make sure everyone is diligently working.” Richard Patry dedicated 39 years of his professional life to Curley, and upon his retirement was quoted as saying, “I wouldn’t trade my life with anyone.” In some ways he never retired.

Dr. David Lumsden has been a regular around Curley since he graduated, contributing in quiet ways and without a lot of fanfare. He served on the Alumni Association Board, has helped to coach cross country and track, and for a time led a program in the martial arts to teach discipline. Dr. Lumsden has served on the Curley School Board, and he has been a significant financial donor to the school. For many years Dr. Lumsden, a doctor of sports medicine and an orthopedic surgeon in his practice, has been Curley’s semi-official school physician, working with Athletic Trainer Marty McGinty for the best care of Curley athletes

TIM ’71 & RITA EVERD AND DAVE ’80 & DARLENE GERSTMYER: DEDICATED VOLUNTEERS Tim and Rita Everd, along with Dave and Darlene Gerstmyer, are a team. It is not unusual to see them at all sorts of events, often preparing and serving food along with other tasks, from Homecoming in the fall to Blackfriars Theatre in the spring. But it is for the Gala that the Gerstmyers and Everds go into over-drive, helping to choose a theme, hosting a gift-gathering party, and then running with the theme to create a memorable entrance décor for the evening. The Gerstmyers (to the left) and Everds (to the right) help to maintain the Curley Family traditions.

Throughout the day special messages were shared, and donors were invited to use the day to make their Annual Fund contribution, or to donate in honor of a particular individual. The support for the day was gratifying once again. In the evening a donor reception was held, at which time the year’s honorees were again celebrated. Cornerstone Day 2020 will take place on April 29th (after the Easter holiday).

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archbishopcurley.org 11

THE

DAVID STAUFFER LEGACY by Craig Baldwin ’11

he words music and excellence have been practically interchangeable for nearly four decades at Curley. The accomplishments of the musicians who have called Curley home over the years are difficult to match, and achieving this level of brilliance has been no easy task. Simply ask any number of the countless alumni who have found success in life from the skills they have attained in the choir and instrumental music programs, or more importantly, ask former Director of Instrumental Music, David Stauffer, who in 2019 retired from his position after 39 years. Music has been a way of life for Mr. Stauffer since his upbringing outside of Dover, Pennsylvania in a family that knew music to be an essential element of education. He therefore was exposed to many musical genres as a child. “I grew up listening to jazz and swing music, along with watching Jerry Lewis movies with the ‘big bands.’ My brother was also a student at the Johns Hopkins Peabody Institute and was always bringing different musicians around the house. I would see the York Symphony Orchestra or a concert at Peabody almost weekly,” he recalled. It was in third grade that he began musical training of his own on the clarinet through private lessons. By high school he was a member of the marching band, the choral music program, as well as the York Youth Symphony Orchestra, studying both clarinet and saxophone. What many may not know about Dave is that he was also an avid wrestler and weightlifter in his youth, recognizing the importance of being an athlete in the development of his musical ability. “Athletics require competition not only with others, but also with yourself. You learn to develop an internal hunger to do things the right way.” It was an easy choice for Dave when it was time to choose a college. “Music was what I was good at, and Towson State was the best place to study it. It was the only place I wanted to go.” Dave received his Bachelor of Science in Music Education from Towson State University in the spring of 1980, and it was the following winter when he learned of a position opening at a

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nearby high school. When asked how he came into his role at Curley, he responded “I just kind of ended up there,” claiming that at the time he just needed a job. “I heard about the position through the music program at Towson. I had spent all summer at the beach, and was working at the ski slopes during the winter. I heard that Curley was hiring for a Band Director, and knew that those positions were hard to come by. I thought that it would be a stepping stone to something bigger. I never expected to be there as long as I was at the time.” Dave found a music program that was nearly non-existent compared to what it has grown into today upon arriving at Curley in 1981. “Nineteen elementarylevel students, two guitar classes, one brass class, no rehearsals, and no budget,” he recalled of his first year as director. When asked when his vision for the music program began to take shape, he replied “Every day. Every day I was putting myself in that moment, recognizing what needed to be done for the band to be successful, and getting it done in order for us to move forward.” Dave certainly had quite the workload early in his career, which included recruiting musicians, purchasing new instruments, and organizing the band’s first concerts, however he didn’t stop there. Aside from the growth the band itself experienced over the years, Dave was instrumental in the development of the music program as a whole at Curley. This included being the driving voice behind adding a choral music program in 1997, a drumline in 2006, as well as organizing the transition of rehearsal space; from holding classes onstage in the auditorium in his first year, to various locations throughout the building, and eventually to the Holthaus Fine Arts Center, which opened in 2010. “My greatest challenge has been building this program from the ground up over the years, but it has been an amazing experience working with countless groups of talented people.”

“Producing All That Curley Jazz is always a highlight. I know for me, playing in the Alumni Jazz Band is the best way to give back to Mr. Stauffer and the music program. He made us who we are today as men and as musicians.” - Dave Makowiecki ’93, who organizes the Curley Jazz Bands’ performance each year If you happen to be in Curley’s Student Dining Room on the evening of the first Saturday of March, you will experience first-hand many of those “talented people” who have certainly not forgotten their roots under David Stauffer’s direction. Listening to the sounds of the Alumni Jazz Band during the tradition of All That Curley Jazz, one cannot help but feel the nurturing education received by these men as students in the music program, many of whom come back to Curley from various career fields to share in the occasion, and to play under their mentor. The performance serves not only as an enjoyable experience for all in attendance, but also as an opportunity for Curley brothers to reminisce. Dave’s time working at Curley has come to a conclusion, but it is safe to say that his legacy through those he influenced over the course of his career will live on. When asked what he looks forward to most about retirement, he happily expressed, “Not driving,” as he refers to the two hour commute he has made from Dover, Pennsylvania to Curley and back every day for most of his career. He also noted that his work will continue, however he is looking forward to choosing his own hours. “Work is my fun. I love working with my hands, building things, and making improvements to my ‘hobby farm,’” as he refers to his home, the 17th century farm house in which he was raised, and now owns with his family. Thanks to that same work ethic and dedication that Dave has instilled in his musicians, the Curley bands have consistently achieved a standard of excellence over the years, and have established themselves as a nationally-recognized program by adjudicators and professionals from across the country. Travelling to cities such as Boston, Charleston, Chicago, New York and most recently, Nashville, the Curley Concert Band, Jazz Ensemble, and Drumline consistently receive superior ratings during their annual adjudications. Dave described his tenure of four decades as an educator at Curley as “…a pool of warm thoughts. This is where I grew up, and I am blessed to have so many wonderful memories, and countless experiences to look back on. I’ve had the opportunity to help thousands of young men use their talents to communicate through music, and that is a chance that very few people have in their lives.”

“The level of performance that Mr. Stauffer expected and exhibited each day was contagious. Being a student of his was not always easy, but the respect his alumni have for him is remarkable. He was more than just our band teacher; he taught life lessons that are applicable in every field, such as understanding that life is a process, and while it will have its ups and downs, one must have focus, dedication and a drive for perfection on a daily basis.” - Chris Young ’11 “Mr. Stauffer taught me the patience and discipline that helped me to become a well-rounded student. Despite just being a freshman in college, I have already made good use of the time management skills and the work ethic that he taught me. In a musical sense, his instruction has put me in a position where my skills are equal or superior to many of my peers who did not have him as a teacher. Despite the world of music having a lot to offer, there is nothing quite like playing in a Curley band.” - Ethan Bower ’18 “The opportunity to work with Mr. Stauffer and the Alumni Jazz Band is a time to relive the bond that we all formed as we worked and performed together. Most people talk about the teachers that changed their lives, but aren’t lucky enough to make those connections again. Alumni Jazz gives us that opportunity.” - Steve Streckfus ’93

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Dan Herr ’90

Brian Sommers ’99

ALUMNI

Spotlight

Raise your glass to…

By Barry Stitz ’87

with an athlete and do the fundraising together. The 5K race will remain on his calendar as he admits “it provides a little motivation to stay somewhat in shape.” There’s also the “Super Plunge” that has participants braving the cold waters every hour over a 24-hour period. It requires reaching a goal of $10,000.

an Herr vividly remembers the conversation on the phone with his mom. Mrs. Herr had just watched a video her son had posted on Facebook and was irate. “She asked me what I was doing and if I was crazy,” says Herr with a chuckle. “I told her my life insurance is paid and then she hung up on me.” Imagine his mom’s surprise seeing her only son rappelling down a 16-story building. While he enjoys outdoor activities, Herr is not to be mistaken for an extreme athlete who gets his thrills living on the edge. His participation in rappelling and other activities is all a part of his efforts to raise money for Special Olympics Maryland, the state’s largest sports organization for people with intellectual disabilities. “It is a really good cause and the more I got involved, the more I saw how much it meant to the athletes,” he states. Herr adds, “The athletes never forget their experience. It’s like the regular Olympics for them.” Herr was first introduced to the Special Olympics as a member of Ravens Roost, the fan club of the Baltimore Ravens football team. The organization had

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approached his council for support. Herr took on a leadership role for the fundraiser and was tasked with getting members of his group to participate in the Polar Bear Plunge, an annual January event which requires one to take a dip in the thirty degree Chesapeake Bay. “We set a goal of raising $5,000 and ended up at $17,000,” he says proudly. Over the seven years that Herr led the charge for his council, the Roost donated over a half million dollars to the charity. In addition to the “Plunge” and the “Over the Edge” rappelling event, Herr has also participated in 5K races and has hosted fundraisers at local

restaurants. He estimates that he alone has raised $50,000 for the Special Olympics during his 15-year relationship with the organization. The motivation for his continued support is simple. “I want to give these athletes the opportunity to have this special experience without spending a penny,” he states. Proceeds are used to provide equipment, attire, and health supplies that can help transform an athlete’s life. Just raising money for his favorite cause isn’t enough for the 1990 graduate. He often attends the different events including the Summer games to cheer on the athletes. “When you see them succeed- they are so genuine,” Herr states. “They always remember that you were there helping out.” He also felt it important to get his sons, Zachary ’15 and Brandon ’20 involved. Both have volunteered for events and have even brought friends along to lend a hand. Herr plans on continuing to assist the 7,782 Special Olympics Maryland athletes and hopes that many more get involved. He wants to host a concert at a local establishment and aims to partner

While Herr’s efforts have positively affected so many of the Special Olympic athletes, he believes that he too has benefited. “I’ve met so many good people and have developed special relationships with a few of the athletes,” he shares. And Herr expects these relationships to continue. “If they say you are a friend, you are a friend for life!”

By Greg Malanowski ’70

f you have been to a recent Homecoming or Reunion or Gala, then you probably have glassware produced by Baltimore Glassware Decorators (BGD) and Brian Sommers ’99. Brian is the owner, having purchased the company in 2009. At that time, BGD had twelve employees and was producing about 5000 pieces per week. Today, there are sixty employees turning out about 30,000 units a day at the Frankford Avenue location. No longer just a local company, BGD has a national footprint, shipping products all over the country. What is Brian’s role? “I have my hands in just about everything,” he says. His goal is to expand the business, so he works with marketing by going to trade shows and sales calls. He works with production in determining efficiencies in the process and which machines need an upgrade. All the while, he claims he is “having a good time.” Brian’s entrepreneurial spirit is a result of growing up around family-owned businesses. After Curley, he attended Community College of Baltimore County and University of Maryland, Baltimore County graduating with a B.A. in Economics in 2004. Working as an oil dispatcher for Carroll Independent Fuel was his first job, while doing marketing consulting on the side. One of the companies with which he consulted was Baltimore

Glassware Decorators. When the previous owner began preparing to sell the business, Brian seized the opportunity and fulfilled his dream of being an entrepreneur. It appears that the marriage of Brian and BGD has been a successful one. Recently, BGD received recognition for supporting the growth of the craft beer industry. (See the photo with State Comptroller Peter Franchot.) A member of the ’99 Championship Baseball Team, Brian retains his love for Curley and supports Curley in various ways. He has several Curley alumni in his company, including Rick Buddenbohn ’74, Brian Salamone ’99 and Steven Sommers ’17. When not on the road or in the shop, Brian enjoys life near the water at his home in Millers Island. With his wife Nicole and daughters Delaney, 7 and Tessa, 6, they enjoy taking out their boat, crabbing and fishing. So let’s raise a Baltimore Glassware decorated glass to Curley alum, Brian Sommers ’99!

Please visit www.somd.org or contact Dan Herr at herrsports@yahoo.com if you are interested in learning more about Special Olympics Maryland.

Left to right: The Honorable Belinda Conaway, Michael Augystiniak (Marketing Director), Brian Sommers, Comptroller Peter Franchot, Keith Wolcott (Sales Director).

archbishopcurley.org 15

ALUMNI

NEWS Class of 1966

Class of 1970

Bernie Covino was presented with the Bronze Pelican award at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C., for his support of Catholic Scouting.

Bill Kulbicki was named Massage Therapist of the Year for the Rotunda Massage Envy for 2018.

Guy Williamson and his wife Linda celebrated 50 years of marriage in May 2019.

Class of 1976 Dennis Caprio was featured on the cover of Parade Magazine within the “What People Earn” Annual Report.

Class of 1969 The Class of 1969 celebrated their 50th Reunion in June. Congratulations to these Golden Friars!

Class of 1996

Class of 2014

Class of 2015

Christopher Pukalski is the Manager of the IT Staffing Division at Life Search Technologies in Hunt Valley, and was one of 2 people in the firm to make President’s Club for Outstanding Sales in 2018.

Max Franz visited Curley to speak with photography classes as well as the Art club on his career in professional photography and production.

Haywood Highsmith, member of the Philadelphia 76ers, visited Curley and spoke to students regarding his journey from Curley through college to the NBA.

Zachary M. Fischer graduated from Flagler College in Saint Augustine, Florida in May with his Bachelor’s in Secondary Education with an ESOL Minor. Zachary will begin his teaching career in Saint John’s County, Florida teaching high school English.

Mike Serio works in the freelance camera world, and in the past year has worked behind-the-scenes for Super Bowl LIII, the Stanley Cup Finals, the MLB All-Star Game, and the World Series.

Class of 2003 Tim Connor and his wife Margarita announce the birth of their daughter, Anna Lourdes, born on August 31, 2018.

Tim Richardson was promoted in December 2018 to Director of

Harry Wujek and his wife, Ashley, announce the birth of their daughter, Tenley Marie, who was born on January 9, 2019.

Korey Matthews was accepted into the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism at The City University of New York on a full academic scholarship.

Deonte Harris was the first player signed by the New Orleans Saints following the NFL Draft.

Class of 1994 Mario Maney and his wife, Stacy, were placed with their adopted daughter, Norah Ava Maney, over the Christmas holiday. The Class of 1994 celebrated their 25th Reunion in June. Congratulations to these Silver Friars!

Charles Tittle received the 2018 Maryland State Police Trooper of the Year award in April making him the first trooper to earn the statewide recognition twice.

Class of 2013 Matt Avara, who works for the Admissions Office of Wake Forest University, held an information session for Curley students at Curley in March. Kyle Mealey graduated with his Master’s degree in Marketing Intelligence from Towson University in May.

Rest in Peace •V incent Battaglia, father of Bruce ’82,

Kenneth ’84 and David ’86

“Butch” Rosenthal ’84 and grandfather of Matt Rosenthal ’11

•R ene Bourgeois, brother of John ’75 •A nastasia Bowen, mother of Eric ’83

Robert, Jr., ’84, James ’84, David ’87 and Michael ’90 and grandfather of Aidan ’22

•M aria Pietrogiacomo, mother of Mark ’13

•R on Drechsler, father of Benjamin ’17

•A gnes Rigopoulos, mother of William ’88

•C atherine Ginski, mother of Mark ’89

•C harles Pugh, faculty

and Michael ’88 •C ecilia Schell, mother of Russell ’79 •M ichael Schoeffield ’69 • J ohn M. Sions, II, ’71 •R osalie Sobczynski, mother of Michael

Stephen ’76

’81 and grandmother of Jonathan Sobczynski ’08 and Lucas Horn ’07

• T imothy Ray Holden ’76 • T homas “Bernie” Kelly, father of

•S teven A. Timberlake ’76, father of

+Patrick ’73

Michael ’03 and Brian ’05

•W alter T. Kozera, Sr., father of

Walter T. Jr., ’79 and Gino ’81

•S teve Trattner ’82

•K enneth Krasowski ’66

•E dward Welk, father of David ’75

•M elvin Krolczyk, father of Daniel ’77

and Joseph ’79

•E ugene B. Wicklin, father of David ’80

and Donald ’84

• L ouise Kulis, mother of Mark ’74

•P hilip Winkelman ’65, father of

and Michael ’82

Gregory ’88

•E dward L. Mason, Jr., father of

+Edward, III ’98

•S tephen J. Wittelsberger ’81

•M argaret Menas, mother of John ’69

and James ’70

•R aymond R. Merryman, Jr. , father of

Mr. Philip Forte, mathematics instructor at Curley since 2010, was awarded the Cardinal Gibbons Medallion for his 32 years of service at Cardinal Gibbons High School in May. He served there as a teacher, assistant principal for academics and principal.

•V ictor Padden ’15, son of James ’79

•N ancy Pieper, mother of Chris ’79

•R obert M. Diem, Sr., father of

•R ichard J. Hipsley, ’70, brother of

Faculty and Staff recognized for years of service to Archbishop Curley High School: 5 Year Service Award: • Joanne Berkey • Liam Breathnach • Angela Cogswell • Christian Grochowski • Mark Muth ’09 • Steve Streckfus ’93 • Zachary Dziedzic

and Timothy, Sr., ’84, Grandfather of Timothy, Jr., ’03 and Stephen ’09

Jr., ’78

•W illiam F. Critcher ’81

• J ames Harrison ’65

Chris Ogle, Social Studies Department Chair and Head Varsity Lacrosse Coach, and his wife, Katie, welcomed a son, Ford Collins Ogle on April 23, 2019. High School in May. He is also proud of his MIAA championship.

•C arroll Minderlein, father of Patrick ’72

•E ugene Perry, Sr., father of Eugene,

• F rancis Thomas Ciesla ’68

and Michael ’94

CURLEY | FACULTY NOTES

• J oseph Mezzadra ’70, brother of

George ’67

•W illiam Black, father-in-law of Charles

•B rian A. Gugliotta, father of Kyle ’04

Class of 2011

Corporate & Foundation Relations for the Johns Hopkins University Whiting School of Engineering.

Tom Marr sits on the Board of the Kelly’s Dream Foundation. Kelly’s Dream is a 501(c)3 non-profit foundation that focuses on easing the financial and emotional strain of cancer, raising melanoma awareness, and spreading the gift of hope.

Giuliano Celenza was inducted into the Baltimore Blast Hall of Fame.

Class of 2009

Chuck Jones is an entertainer, magician, and speaker living in Inwood, West Virginia, and performs frequently in Hagerstown, MD; Martinsburg, WV; and the surrounding area.

Class of 1983

Class of 1997

Class of 1990

Class of 1981

Class of 1967 Gerry Holthaus received the President’s Medal at Loyola University’s 167th Commencement. The President’s Medal is awarded to friends and benefactors who have performed some signal service for the University’s advancement and prestige, or who have demonstrated loyalty in a notable manner.

Class of 1986

•S teven Wodarski ’03, brother of

Raymond ’07

•D orothy Zipfel, mother of William ’67 Keith ’85, Jeff ’92 and Dennis ’94, grandfather of Dan ’07, Eric ’10, Jake ’19 and Brandon ’22 Merryman and Phil ’12 and Greg ’10 Robinson

ALUMNI NEWS UPDATE Please send news about yourself, family and classmates to Alumni Office Archbishop Curley High School 3701 Sinclair Lane Baltimore, MD 21213 or email: alumni@archbishopcurley.org

16 CURLEY Magazine | Summer 2019

archbishopcurley.org 17

30th Annual Targarona Memorial

CURLEY | SPORT SHORTS MIAA Pole Vaulting championship Congratulations to Ian Hoffman ’20 on capturing the MIAA Pole Vaulting championship.

Varsity Lax Wins MIAA “B” Conference Championship The Friars defeated Glenelg Country School 12-3 to capture the league championship on May 17th. The final was played at Johnny Unitas Stadium on the campus of Towson University. Congratulations to the players and to Coach Ogle and his staff!

Curley Athletes Receive Winter & Spring All-MIAA Honors Winter Basketball- Travis Dobbins ’19 & Caleb Johnson ’20 Ice Hockey- Shane Stone ’19, Sam Stitz ’21, & Scott Swain ’21 Indoor Track- Will Hanna-Leverett ’19 & Ian Hoffman ’20

Congratulations

to our senior athletes who will be going on to compete in their respective sports in college // BASEBALL

// LACROSSE

Derrick Booker- St. Mary’s College of Maryland Colton Knoble- Harford Community College Tyler Locklear- Virginia Commonwealth University

Shane Stone- St. Vincent College Kollin Wisniewski- Shenandoah University Nick Ramage- Goucher College Andrew Jackson- Bethany College

// BASKETBALL

Anthony Dragisics- Villanova University Thunlwyn Garcia- Adelphi University Brayden Wise- Lycoming University Walter Wyatt- Susquehanna University

Travis Dobbins- Dickinson College

// CROSS COUNTRY Will Hanna Leverett- University of Maryland- Baltimore County

// FOOTBALL Spring Baseball- Tyler Locklear ’19 Golf- Matt Miller ’20 Lacrosse- Michael Gardiner ’19, Scott Kahl ’19, Nate Rollins ’20, Josh Knapp ’20, & Dom Zingo ’20 Track & Field- Sam Burke ’20 & Ian Hoffman ’20

18 CURLEY Magazine | Summer 2019

Paul Lewis- Cornell University Michael Vargas- King’s College Jamar Smith- Stevenson University

Golf Tournament MAY 21, 2019

The Targarona Memorial Golf Tournament, now its 30th year, was held on May 21st and welcomed a record number of golfers - 138 – to Sparrow’s Point Country Club. The tournament raised $10,000 for the Alumni Scholarship Fund, which offers sons of Curley graduates financial assistance to attend Curley. Frank Saverese ’75 has chaired the event since 2002, and was honored by the school for his leadership. We are grateful to Frank, the golfers, sponsors and volunteers who made the tournament a success.

// SOCCER

// VOLLEYBALL Randy Rykiel- Wilkes University Michael Sacha- Queens University of Charlotte

archbishopcurley.org

Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage

PAID

3701 Sinclair Lane Baltimore, MD 21213-2079

Permit No. 6354 BALTIMORE, MD

www.archbishopcurley.org Join us for these upcoming events:

OCT 4

FEAST OF ST. FRANCIS

OCT 26-27

OCT 11

ALUMNI CUP SOCCER GAME VS CALVERT HALL AT CURLEY

NOV 10

OCT 19

HOMECOMING

NOV 29

OPEN HOUSE

ALUMNI MEMORIAL MASS

REUNION NIGHT

CLASSES OF ’69, ’74, ’79, ’84, ’89, ’94, ’99, ’04, ’09, ’14

To learn more and to purchase tickets for Curley’s special events, please visit http://www.archbishopcurley.org/calendar/specialevents Not receiving Alumni Notifications? Send your email address to alumni@archbishopcurley.org 20 CURLEY Magazine | Summer 2019