CURLEY Summer 2016
A Magazine for Alumni, Parents and Friends
Senior Service Week
Curley Men Lend a Helping Hand
CURLEY Summer 2016
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 President Fr. Donald Grzymski, OFM Conv. ’70 Vice President for Advancement Barry Stitz ’87
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Executive Director of Enrollment Management and Marketing Jeremy Joseph ’96 Assistant Director of Advancement Contributing Photographer Greg Malanowski ’70
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Director of Alumni Rafe Park ’06 Administrative Assistant Layout and Design Maureen Roche Office Hours 7:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Mission Statement of Archbishop Curley High School 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. On the Cover Collage of photos from Senior Service Week 2016 composed in the image of the San Damiano Cross. Please send comments to the address above or alumni@archbishopcurley.org
10 Features
Departments
8 Curley Gala at Twenty-One By Fr. Donald Grzymski, OFM Conv. ’70
4 Curley Currents
9 Steve Streckfus ’93: Taking Care of Business By Barry Stitz ’87 10 Faith in Action: Senior Service Week By Jeremy Joseph ’96 15 Curley’s Academic Teams By Greg Malanowski ’70
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Advancement Notes
12 Friars’ Perspective 16 Alumni News 18 Sports Shorts
From the President
Dear Alumni and Friends of Curley: There have been many memorable moments from the past school year, and often these are from events beyond the classroom. However, a Curley education has never been limited to classrooms, and students have always been encouraged to participate in co-curricular activities. These take many forms, but they are never “extra” to the curriculum, rather they enhance classroom learning and expand opportunities for involvement. The term “Catholic” implies such a universal approach to education, and “Franciscan” education strives to reach the whole person, as it forms, informs and transforms the individual.
As you peruse this issue of CURLEY please keep this in mind, for service is an important part of a Curley education, as is using one’s talents for the common good. There is often a service component to education, but in a Catholic school it is clearly related to living one’s faith, and sharing talents with others. As the article on service explains, students find many avenues for this requirement, and some truly move out of their comfort zone. Few are disappointed in the experiences, for often they discover realities about themselves and the world of which they were previously unaware.
There are also a number of co-curricular activities which link academic experience with competition or application. Since the 1960s Curley students have participated in “It’s Academic,” the popular TV program that is celebrating 50 years on the air. In more recent years Model U.N., Mock Trial and Ethics Bowl participation has provided new venues for intellectual challenge and interaction with students from many high schools. These, too, are covered in this issue.
It is a pleasure to see students engaged in the classroom, but it is an equal delight to see them doing well as they move beyond the school. These opportunities also build the confidence that can make the difference in college and then successful careers. This takes Curley to the larger community. Thank you for your support of the school, for it helps many others experience the Franciscan and Catholic ideals that are manifest in Curley students and alumni.
Fr. Donald Grzymski, OFM Conv. ’70 President
A part of the Golden Reunion Celebration is Mass with the student body. During the Mass, Fr. Donald blessed the “Golden Friar” pins and presented them to members of the Class of 1966 who were present. At right, Fr. Donald gives the “Golden Friar” pin to William Dukes as Daniel DiMarino and Jere Danaher look on.
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CURLEYcurrents
Teacher of the Year Every year, during Teacher Appreciation Week, a Curley faculty member is named “Teacher of the Year.” This award, announced Mr. Kohler, was renamed the “Barry Brownlee Excellence in Teaching Award.” Mr. Brownlee was Curley’s first lay principal and a member of the faculty for more than 25 years.
Juan Reyes ’17 Testifies in Annapolis
The recipient of the Barry Brownlee Excellence in Teaching Award for 2016 is Ms. Allison Couche, Math Instructor, Chair of the Math Department and Moderator of the Student Government Association. Here are some comments from our students about this year’s recipient: “Ms. Couche is an overall amazing teacher. She cares about her students and really wants the best for them, and is willing to go out of her way to ensure they are doing well.” “She is a teacher who is dedicated, kind, thoughtful, and realizes when certain students are in need of help. She is someone who really makes an effort to help those students who are struggling.” “Although Algebra may not be easy (at least for me), it’s never boring. Ms. Couche makes education easy and fun to learn. She expects much from her students.” Thank you to all Curley teachers for your caring and commitment to the education of the students at Curley. The following faculty and staff members receive Milestone Service Awards this year: 5 years – Brian Kohler, Tony Bahr, 15 years – Marty McGinty, 20 years – Sean Murphy.
Archbishop Curley junior Juan Reyes testified before the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee in the Senate Office Complex in Annapolis regarding Senate Bill 706, the Maryland Education Credit. Juan was accompanied by Mr. Malanowski and junior Isaiah Clark who observed the workings of the committee hearing. The students were invited to lunch at the Maryland Catholic Conference by Mr. Garrett O’Day who was hosting the participation of Juan and other students who would testify before the committee. After lunch, a walk up the hill past the State Capitol took the group to the Senate Office Building and the 3rd floor hearing room. Senate Bill 706 was the first on the agenda. A panel of four speakers opened the proceedings. The panel consisted of Senator DeGrange, one of the bill’s sponsors, a representative of Jewish nonpublic schools, Mr. Garrett O’Day, representative of the Maryland Catholic Conference and Juan Reyes ’17 of Curley. When his turn came, Juan read a prepared statement.
Mother-Son Dinner Dance Mothers and sons gathered in Curley’s Gym for the Annual Mother-Son Dinner Dance on April 16th. Dads and grads did the serving, allowing moms quality time with their sons. The photo booth was a popular attraction. Seniors gave their moms a rose and had a special dance with them. All seemed to have a great time. This annual event is sponsored by the Parents’ Guild. 4
Senate Bill 706, the Maryland Education Credit was passed by the Senate. A similar bill did not make it out of the House Ways and Means Committee. The Maryland General Assembly did, however, pass its first ever school choice legislation, the Broadening Options and Opportunities for Students Today (aka BOOST) Program. The program will provide $5 million to students who are currently attending or wish to attend a nonpublic school. For more information, consult the Maryland State Department of Education at www.marylandpublicschools. org/boost.
CURLEYcurrents
Blackfriars’ Theatre Presents ... Blackfriars’ Theatre performed their production of Godspell in March. Directed by Mr. Ed Lawrence, the play featured sophomore Robbie Wolle, who played the role of Jesus, and junior Kevin Johnson as John the Baptist who morphs into the role of Judas. The community of disciples included: Alex Caporale, Trevor Bandoch, Ian Moore, Nick McRae, Shawn Thompson, Nicholas Bosi, Wyatt Peters, Taylor Karnes, Alyssa Palazzo, Katie Robey, Catherine Tirschman, Veronica Woodring, Cami Zahnen, Bailey Mullen, Michaela Palazzo and Allison Woodring. In addition to three weekend performances, Blackfriars performed for over 700 middle school students who attended on Thursday morning. Noah Bahur and Alex Schlee were the stage crew, supervised by Mr. Butch Rosenthal ’84. Seniors Zach Feltz and Jordan Heffler manned the spotlights. The band consisted of Mr. Bob Barbarino ’06 (Musical Director/Piano), Mr. Dylan Nauman (Guitar), Ms. Christie MacDonald (Guitar), Mr. Doug Ross (Bass), and Mr. Nick Rynes ’12 (Drum Set). The show was choreographed by Mrs. Peggy Busey-Bourgeois and her assistant and Blackfriars alum Ms. Katie Gerstmyer. Lighting Design and Technician was Mr. Mark Miller ’85. Sound Design and Technician was Mr. John Jakubowski ’77. Other production personnel include: Mrs. Donna Rosenthal (Props), Mrs. Mary Jane Jakubowski (Sewing/Repairs), Mrs. Jeanne Miller (Box Office).
Curley’s Distinctive Scholars On April 5, 2016, the Department of Catholic Schools of the Archdiocese of Baltimore held The 24th Annual Distinctive Scholars Convocation at Mercy High School. Taking place within the context of a Vespers Service, this academic convocation applauds and affirms the academic talents of students in the secondary schools of the Archdiocese. Bishop Denis Madden, Auxiliary Bishop of Baltimore, presided and delivered the reflection.
Band Trip The Curley bands took their annual trip to a music festival in Myrtle Beach and came back with accolades and superior ratings. The point of the festival is for the three Curley ensembles (Concert Band, Jazz Ensemble and Drumline) to be rated by professional adjudicators. As well as receiving the superior ratings, the rhythm section and saxophone section of the Jazz Band received outstanding section awards. Vince Ray ’16 was awarded best soloist award for his flute solo in Concert Band and Daniel Nakasone ’17 was awarded best soloist award for his saxophone solo in Jazz Band. Fr. Donald received a letter from the organizer of the festival that reads, in part: “The students’ performances were not only a testament to their top-notch musical abilities but also to the contribution of music and arts to educating and preparing the whole student for a successful and rewarding life. We especially want to acknowledge band directors Rick Reely and David Stauffer for their leadership, which resulted in Outstanding Achievement Awards for students in the Concert Band/ Wind Ensemble and Jazz/Stage Band. More importantly, the entire group, students, faculty and chaperones, are to be commended for their professionalism, good manners and respectful behavior throughout the weekend.”
Each school was represented by three students; Curley’s Distinctive Scholars were Nicholas Menikheim, Matthew Borowy and Angelo Petruccy. 5
CURLEYcurrents
Class of 2016 Commencement Exercises The Class of 2016 walked past the tomb of Archbishop Michael J. Curley on their way to celebrating their Baccalaureate Mass in the Basilica of the Assumption. Fr. Donald Grzymski OFM Conv ’70, President of Curley, was the main celebrant and delivered the homily. A number of awards were given to the seniors who garnered 248 acceptances to 107 different four-year colleges and universities, earning over $10.7M in scholarships and aid.
Mr. Jonathan Melnick Receives Curley Medal The Archbishop Curley Medal was presented to Mr. Jonathan Melnick for his dedication and generosity to the school. Mr. Melnick is a real estate developer and professional auctioneer who was asked to serve as auctioneer for the first Curley Gala in 1996. He graciously offered his services that evening, as he has done for other schools and charity events throughout the Baltimore area, and he has now returned for each of the 21 Curley Galas. Over those years he has regularly offered his own Colorado condo as an auction gift, while befriending so many in the Curley community. In the process, Mr. Melnick has helped the school raise more than $2.2 million through the annual Gala, while humbly saying that we honor him by asking him to serve in the capacity of auctioneer. Established in 2000, the Archbishop Michael J. Curley Medal was created to be presented on a special occasion to honor alumni and friends of the school who have made significant contributions through their support and service to Curley High School. This is the eighth time the medal has been awarded.
The 52nd Commencement Exercises of Archbishop Curley High School took place two days later at the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen. Most Reverend Denis J. Madden, Auxiliary Bishop of Baltimore, offered his wisdom to the graduates in the commencement address. Many Curley traditions were also evident. Seniors dressed in white dinner jackets, black bowties and red boutonnieres. Members of the Class of 1966, celebrating their 50th Reunion this year, were a part of the procession. Seniors with alumni fathers gathered for the “grads and dads” photo. All alumni present stood to sing the “Alma Mater.” Faculty formed a receiving line after the ceremony to congratulate each graduate. The following awards were presented by Fr. Donald and Mr. Kohler: St Francis Scholastic – Angelo Petruccy; School Spirit – Deandre Diggs; Ideal Curley Man of the Year – Jerome Lechasseur; School Service – Zachary Feltz; St. Alphonsus Scholastic – Matthew Borowy; St. Francis Scholastic – Nicholas Menikheim.
Spring Concerts The Curley Choirs performed twenty-three compositions in their Spring Concert on May 7th. From Broadway to polyphony, from spiritual to motown, the selections appealed to many musical tastes. All were performed with energy and sensitivity, with expertise and class. Student conductors Josh Lewis ’16, Matt Bechtel ’17 and Jacob Ritmiller ’17 led the Curley ringers. Year after year, The Curley Choirs provide excellent and enjoyable concerts, which is a tribute to the director, Mr. Michael Gaffney, and to the young men themselves. On May 13th, the award-winning Curley Bands under the direction of Mr. David Stauffer, filled the auditorium with powerful music. Concert Band began their extraordinary performance with a Ralph Vaughn Williams arrangement of three British sea-songs. They concluded their set with the delightful “Looney Tunes Overture” (Holcombe.) The Jazz Ensemble always gets one’s toes tapping. Soloists included Matt Selba, EJ Adjaye, Vincent Ray, Daniel Nakasone, Chimaobi Iwumune, Quincy Richburg, Ethan Bower, Joshua Occasio and Kyle Rosenberger. 6
ADVANCEMNENTnotes
Breakfasts with the President The Advancement Office hosted three Breakfast with the President events for alumni and friends of the school. Guests were updated on the current state of the school as well as the plans for future program and facility growth.
Golden Friars Establish Endowed Scholarships The Class of 1966 announced that they had reached their $25,000 goal to establish an endowed scholarship at their 50th Reunion celebration held on May 21st at Sparrows Point Country Club. The scholarship award will be need-based with preference given to the grandsons of members of the Class of 1966. The Class of 1965, the school’s first Golden Friars, established their own scholarship as part of their reunion last year.
Turf Field The installation of the Turf Field is complete.
Did you know there are creative ways to support Archbishop Curley High School? Ways in which Curley, you and your loved ones all benefit at the same time?
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Such giving techniques are called “planned gifts,” because with thoughtful planning, you create win-win solutions for you and Curley. These gifts include bequests, charitable gift annuities, charitable remainder unitrusts, charitable remainder annuity trusts, or For more detailed gifts of life insurance. information, please visit
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TODAY
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Leave your Legacy
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the Planned Giving page on our website at http://www.archbishopcurley.org/giving/donationtypes/plannedgiving
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GALA I
GALA XXI
GALA I
ala G CURLEY
AT TWENTY-ONE By Fr. Donald Grzymski, OFM Conv. ’70
first Curley Gala was held on March T23,he1996, modeled on a dinner-auction that
had been taking place at the Friars’ St. Francis High School in Athol Springs, NY. 250 guests gathered for that first event, promoted as “An Evening in Tivoli,” and bid on some 250 silent items. The verbal items at that first Gala included a weekend in Ocean City, a set of golf clubs, and 250 gallons of heating oil. The profit for the evening was $19,583, and a new tradition was born. Held each year since on the day before Palm Sunday, with a theme offering decorators a chance to demonstrate their creativity, Gala II began the move to sell-out crowds, peaking with this year’s 524 guests, and expanding auction tables into other nearby areas of the school. Gala IX was the first to record a profit over $100,000, with Gala XXI raising over $182,000 from more than 650 gifts. Over the years more than $2.2 million dollars has been raised to benefit the school. Apart from the financial benefit, the Gala has become Curley’s premiere social event of the year. Alumni, parents and friends enjoy dressing up, and tuxedoed students assist by serving hors d’oeuvres, opening doors, and doing various tasks. This year’s short program included a thank you video narrated by broadcaster and guest Rod Daniels, and 8
an invocation offered by Baltimore Auxiliary Bishop Denis Madden.
Guests often remark on the physical transformation of the school that sets the stage for the Gala. This is to the credit of volunteer decorators like David ’80 & Darlene Gerstmyer and Tim ’71 & Rita Everd. Since 2008 these two couples have tackled the entrance lobby. Dave explains the process: “The four of us start talking about decorating after the committee decides on the theme. We go to dinner in January to lay out more detailed plans. Usually one of us has a ‘crazy idea,’ and then Tim and I engineer the outcome. The project grows with more ideas for making it bigger and better, more colorful or more interactive. We meet at our house whenever we find time to make our drawings come to fruition, taking over our garage, dining room and family room from January until the Gala.” Tim shares another motivation, “It is those moments, where we see people lining up for photos in the lobby, that we feel our efforts help the Curley Family.” And how they do! Of course, tasty food and drink also enhance the evening. Raoul Frevel, Jr, ’91, Vice President of Operations for Atlantic Caterers, oversaw that part of the evening, observing, “Gala XXI was the 15th Gala
catered by Atlantic, and I’ve been involved in all of them. The adrenaline rush I personally experience with this event is truly indescribable. It takes 50 employees in food prep, table and bar service, under some really unique conditions, and I trust the results are a testament to the passion we bring to an event like this.” Silent auction tables close throughout the evening, and finally the verbal auction commences. For these 21 years, auctioneer Jonathan Melnick has volunteered his service and expertise, in recent years assisted by colleague David Hartman, to lead the excitement. The bidding is a spectator sport for some, but taken very seriously by those vying for a particular item. Student spotters assure no bidder is missed. And then the evening is over, as gift-laden students convey purchased items to patrons’ cars. Hands are also occupied by the souvenir glass that has been a staple over the two decades, and few are left behind on the tables. Each year it has been a successful evening, with anticipation for the next year’s event. Curley Gala XXII, theme yet to be determined, will take place on April 8, 2017. Mark your calendar.
Steve Streckfus ’93
Taking Care of Business By Barry Stitz ’87
Steve Streckfus’ resume includes working for some of the more well-known businesses in the Baltimore Metropolitan area. Legg Mason, Northrup Grumman, and T. Rowe Price all are among his former employers. However, it was during a stint at Constellation Energy that the Curley graduate ultimately realized that something was missing from his professional career. “The work I was doing just wasn’t fulfilling,” he shares. Realizing that he needed to make a change, Streckfus began pondering what would make him happy. He always dreamed of parlaying his business background and love of music and cooking into opening a jazz club. He even attended culinary school after the program he was working on at Northrup Grumman was cancelled by the government. But it was a book that he was reading that would eventually lead him back to his alma mater. “It was one of those where you took different tests and assessments to find a career that best suited your personality,” he explains. “I kept coming up with the same answer. I should become a teacher…or a librarian,” he says with a smile. After graduating from Curley, Streckfus earned his bachelor’s degree from Mt. St. Mary’s and his master’s in Business Management & Leadership from the University of Baltimore. Now he found himself taking classes at the College of Notre Dame to become certified as a teacher. In January 2011, Streckfus began serving as a full-time sub at Curley while taking courses at night. This would continue into the following school year until he was assigned to Aberdeen High School to fulfill the teaching requirement needed to gain his certification. To his dismay, there were no positions available at Curley in his area of expertise for the 2013-14 school year so he accepted a full-time position at Aberdeen as a member of their Math Department. “It was a tough
Curley. Soon after he realized that there was a need to strengthen the business offerings to students. “One in five college degrees are awarded to business majors,” he points out. “There are also many job opportunities available upon graduation.” Although he hopes to provide a solid foundation that prepares his students for related courses in college, Streckfus believes that all Curley Men can benefit from the business curriculum. “Understanding how accounting and finance work is important regardless of the field you ultimately end up pursuing.”
“Understanding how accounting and finance work is important regardless of the field you ultimately end up pursuing.” school but good experience,” Streckfus says. “I learned how to connect with kids and realized there is a lot more going on in their lives than what was happening in the classroom.” Still determined to return to the 33-acre campus on Sinclair Lane, the ’93 alumnus recalls the good news he received in a phone call from then-principal Phil Piercy while at Aberdeen. “I had to go out to my car and let out a big yell to celebrate.” Streckfus began the fall of 2014 teaching Business Management and Algebra at
The planned “rebirth” of the business program will take place in stages and Streckfus will be taking the lead as the department chair. In addition to Accounting once again being offered, students will also have the opportunity to take a Personal Finance class. “With the three courses (including Business Management), we are meeting the needs of the different academic programs in the school,” he offers. For the start of the 2017-18 school year a full “Business Cohort” should be in place which includes new offerings such as Principles of Business, Accounting II, and Economics. Streckfus is also excited at the possibility of the Franciscan values being incorporated into a course that focuses on Catholic ethics in business. According to Streckfus the student body has responded well to the enhanced business curriculum. “We’ll have about 100 students between the three classes next year,” he says. As for his long term goals for the cohort, Streckfus hopes “to build a bridge between our current students and our alumni in the profession.” He would like to bring graduates back to share their work experiences and serve as mentors. This could lead to internships and networking opportunities. “I want to build the reputation that Curley students are graduating with a good understanding of business and ethics,” he proudly states. 9
Faith in Action:
SENIOR SERVICE WEEK By Jeremy Joseph ’96
“ F
There is something good and satisfying to be found in doing service for others, putting others well-being in front of yours.
”
or decades, Curley men have been required to complete community service to qualify for graduation. Over time this program has become more robust as now all students in every grade must complete service work with increasing demands. Freshmen, sophomores and juniors must log 12, 18, and 24 hours respectively. Each step is designed to enhance the overall experience for the student. Moreover, the corresponding reflection component means the program progresses beyond the tallying of hours as students connect their work to the Gospel message of Jesus and St. Francis’ call to serve those on society’s margins. This program culminates in Senior Service Week, a time when members of the senior class are excused from school and for five days report directly to their service sites. During this time they must complete 30 hours of work for a designated charity. This week first made its way onto the school calendar in January 2006 when the second quarter was transitioning into the third. This year’s incarnation was moved later in the year, possibly through divine intervention as to not be ruined by January’s blizzard. Each senior is allowed to serve in a venue approved by the Office of Campus Ministry. Fr. Matt Foley, OFM Conv., Curley’s campus minister, provides a list of pre-approved sites from which the students can select; however, they are not limited to these locations. This year’s seniors worked for Habitat for Humanity, area soup kitchens, parochial schools, nursing homes, and the Ronald MacDonald House to name a few of the many service sites. “We want our students to experience direct relational ministry,” Fr. Matt reports. “Working with people is the most important aspect. We want our guys to be able to say that someone’s life is better because they were a part of it.” 10
It is also an opportunity for sustained service, as each student dedicates his time to a single location for the entire week. “I think, overall, this gives our men a more intense experience of service,” Fr. Matt reports. “Real relationships are formed during the course of a week that cannot be fostered in a singular or sporadic visit to a location.” Chimaobi Iwumune’s service took him back to his parochial school, St. Joseph School in Fullerton, where he assisted pre-kindergarten students. During the school day, he helped by shepherding students to art and gym class, helped with lessons, and supervised nap time. An athlete and musician himself, Iwumune was also able to teach band lessons and advise the track team. “I think that my service opportunity really reflected Curley’s attitude in that I didn’t just watch,” he reflects, “but I got involved.” He also saw the impact on the youngsters. “I saw how much I could affect the lives of others,” he adds, “but I also saw growth in myself.” It is this growth that may have the greatest impact. For more than one student, the service experience was not highly anticipated. Jalen Lomax, who served in a Rosedale nursing home admits, “I was nervous because patients there suffer from some serious diseases including MS and dementia.” Once he let his guard down and developed a personal connection with
Fr. Matt Foley visits with four seniors completing their senior service at The ARC. L-R: Chris Mettee, Cameron Grabovski, EJ Adjaye, Fr. Matt, Lorrell Brown. some of the residents, he was able to relax. “I felt better after a conversation with John, a resident who had been involved in the civil rights movement and grew up during World War II,” Lomax remembers. Curley’s senior categorizes the lesson he learned from this encounter, “I just need to step out of my comfort zone. I can learn a few things if I do that.” Similarly, Chris Mettee joined several classmates to volunteer at The Arc, which assists individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Chris acknowledges, “I was uneasy because I didn’t have contact with people with disabilities, and I expected the worst.” He started his work there by completing clerical and maintenance tasks, but later was able to engage in direct service to people. “I went with a local group to a social outing,” he recalls. “I felt more comfortable as the week went on.” In fact, Mettee returned to The Arc two weeks after his service ended to catch up with Billy, a 24-year-old with Down syndrome. Mettee believes that the rapport he developed with Billy and other Arc clients is a direct result of the structure of Curley’s program: “The week is better because you form relationships with everyone. In other formats you’d lose that.” In fact, for Mettee, the end of service week does not spell the end of
those friendships. While assisting with Bingo, he met a young man, Josh, who upon finding the number on his card would assure Chris, “I have a working brain just like you.” The Curley senior has plans to visit his Bingo partner this summer. Upon the conclusion of their service, seniors are required to submit a reflection to their theology instructor. “Reflection is a significant part of our program,” Fr. Matt states. “This helps us affirm the base for theological reflection, connect work to the scripture and topics discussed in class, and support those things we pray for every day.” The undeniable goal is to connect Christian outreach to the Gospel of Jesus. Fr. Matt continues, “What we study isn’t just a head activity, but a heart and hand activity as well.” This is not lost on the students. “Our service reflects our Franciscan ideals,” Jalen Lomax reports. “Giving back to the community is something we preach.” Chris Mettee adds, “It’s the idea of reaching out to the marginalized, those you normally wouldn’t reach out to.” Fr. Matt stressed with the students that those marginalized include not just the poor and sick, but also the elderly, the lonely, and the young. Nick Roberts, who served students at St. Philip Neri School, notes, “There is something good and satisfying to be found in doing service for others, putting others wellbeing in front of yours.”
Through their service, students also came to realize some hidden personality traits. “Being with the Pre-K class taught me patience,” Roberts asserts. “I learned that I work well with kids,” adds Mike Scheers, who worked at Hampstead Hill Academy. “I was really patient with them because I know what it’s like to be in their position.” Site supervisors were quick to submit their praise for the program and for the young men who served. Mettee and his classmates who served at The Arc were praised for being “willing to do anything they were asked with a ‘can do’ attitude.” That sentiment was echoed by the supervisor at Paul’s Place, which provides services in Southwest Baltimore: “I love it when a volunteer says he will do anything we need done, and all of your students said that!” Students were praised for being a “positive influence” on younger students and for “how much pride they took in their work.” Several Curley students who served special education students at Claremont Middle/High School were given high marks for “doing a marvelous job interacting with students, creating positive memories for our students.” “I have great faith in our guys,” Fr. Matt declares. “We have good men. Just see the good things they accomplish in this one week and you get a glimpse of the good things they will do in the future.” 11
FRIARS’ PERSPECTIVE
50 Years
By Fr. Karl Kolodziejski, OFM Conv. ’66
B
ack in late 1960 and early 1961 my family often went past Sinclair Lane and Erdman Avenue on our way to visit one of my uncles. One time my father commented that the building on the property was going to be a high school, and maybe I would attend there. Indeed I learned that the building would become Archbishop Curley High School, and would educate not only me but my two brothers, and later my three nephews. Even my sister-in-law was involved in school activities. It is hard to believe that this year my graduating class of 1966 is celebrating our 50th reunion. If you were to ask me back then where Curley High School would stand in the story of my life I would not have been able to give any type of answer. Feeling a call to the priesthood I asked one of the diocesan priests at my parish about the possibility of attending St. Paul Seminary High School (now closed). Instead, he suggested I go to one of the other Catholic high schools, and this is how I made my way to Curley. Thus, once I attended Curley and got to know the many wonderful Franciscan Friars who taught there, I decided to enter the Franciscan Order instead. At Curley I met friars from different parts of the country, but many were from Buffalo. I used to make fun of Buffalo, especially the
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Bills. Little did I know that I would spend 27 years at Corpus Christi Church in Buffalo, which was the home parish of many of the friars who taught me. As a deacon, parochial vicar, and then pastor of Corpus Christi, I got to know those friars’ parents and other family members. Certainly the main purpose of a school is to give a scholastic education, but it must also develop the whole man. At Curley I got to meet guys from different areas of the city and county. I got to see that all people are the same, no matter what their background. I also learned that physical work is good—for three and a half years I washed dishes in the school cafeteria. The Franciscan philosophy, which was the crux of being a Curley Man, has served me all my adult life. The simple ethic of working
with people and joining them in their efforts has been my philosophy up until today. I use that training here at Holy Family Parish, where I feel it is part of my duty to join my parishioners drying dishes and doing other chores in our hall when we have weddings or other outside dinners that financially support our parish. I enjoyed being with my classmates for our reunion, as well as praying for all our classmates who God has called home. I hope and pray that God rewards the Class of ’66 with a great sense of knowing they are fulfilling His plan as they live their lives as Curley Men. Fr. Karl Kolodziejski, OFM Conv.’66, serves as pastor of Holy Family Parish in Hooversville, PA.
PILGRIMAGE TO ROME
AN INTERVIEW WITH FR. DON STERLING ’66
By Fr. Donald Grzymski, OFM Conv. ’70
The Rev. Donald Sterling ’66 entered the seminary to study for the priesthood in the Archdiocese of Baltimore after his graduation from Curley. Ordained in 1974, he has served as pastor of New All Saints Church in West Baltimore since 1992. In March of this year he was part of an interfaith group, led by Archbishop William E. Lori, that made a pilgrimage to Rome and met Pope Francis. CURLEY interviewed Fr. Sterling about his experience.
C: When did you learn about the Rome pilgrimage? DS: Only about 2 months before; it all came together rather quickly. C: Did you know the others in the group? DS: We all knew one another at least casually from various City events. It made spending the time together very enjoyable. C: How did you understand the purpose of the trip? DS: It was definitely a pilgrimage where our diverse group could prayerfully gather, praying for the City and discussing ways to better collaborate.
I am optimistic for something from the journey, and surely where we go will be the proof of the trip’s success. C: What did you do during the days in Rome? DS: During the two days we toured and prayed at St. Peter’s and at St. Paul-OutsideThe-Walls, and had meeting with the U.S. Ambassador to the Vatican as well as with Cardinal O’Brien (Baltimore’s former Archbishop). We also had time together at meals, and for some casual visiting of sites. C: Had you met the Pope before? What was that like? DS: I had seen Popes before, including Pope Francis last year in Washington, but I had never met a Pope before. It was a very quick moment, but one could tell how personable Pope Francis is.
C: How did the others in the group react? DS: Many were really touched by the meeting. We had wonderful seats for the audience that preceded our meeting, and the experience of any Vatican event is rather impressive. C: Will there be effects of the trip here in Baltimore? DS: I think the interfaith service at the Basilica on April 27 was a start, and I hope it provides new ways for our Church to interact with others. There will surely be challenges to greater interaction, but all want the best for the City and to avoid problems like last year’s unrest. New ways of doing things are often unsettling, but preaching the Gospel also means taking risks and going beyond one’s comfort zone. C: As a faith leader is there anything else you would like to share? DS: I hope we can translate this pilgrimage experience into something constructive, and become a more interactive community. No one has all the answers, and we will be blessed to have people of various faith traditions working together. I have a special concern for young people and young families who don’t always have the best environment in which to live. Helping them could be a way for faith leadership to come together. C: Thank you for taking the time to share your experience.
CURLEY’S ACADEMIC TEAMS By Greg Malanowski ’70 Competition tests one’s skills and one’s performance of those skills. It is often associated with athletic teams, but is also evident of some “other” teams at Curley. Rather than developing and practicing muscular coordination and strength, these “other” teams develop memory, thinking and speaking skills. Mock Trial Team If it is the law that is of interest to a student, then the Mock Trial Team is the place to hone one’s skills and gain experience arguing a case against another school before a judge. In a competition, one school represents the plaintiff and another represents the defendant. Each team is comprised of three lawyers and three witnesses, trying to outsmart and out maneuver the opposing team. This year’s case was Perez v. Dempsey, involving a teenage girl who suffered a concussion in a lacrosse game under the supervision of her coaches. Mr. Mark Muth ’09 and Mr. Daniel Flanagan ’07 are moderators of the Mock Trial Team. Mr. Flanagan is law clerk to the Honorable Shirley M. Watts, the first female African-American judge to serve as a judge of the Court of Appeals of Maryland, the State’s highest court. He comes in on Saturdays to practice with the team. Mr. Muth is a Latin and theology instructor at Curley. The two alumni work with the students to develop their strategy and practice their speaking skills. “Mock Trial educates students on law and courtroom procedures, and allows students the opportunity to try out being a trial lawyer,” explains Mr. Muth. “But there are other benefits for the students as well. They exercise critical thinking, writing, reading,
and public speaking skills.” It’s Academic Team As part of the Baltimore Catholic League, Curley’s “It’s Academic” team practices twice a week to sharpen its skills at recalling facts and beating the other team to sound the buzzer. Five times a year the team competes against other schools in the league. This is also the only school team that competes on TV! Once a year, the team appears on the long-running “It’s Academic” to match wits with local schools. The Curley team is currently moderated by quizmaster Mr. Jeremy Joseph ’96 who himself was part of the team as a student. Model United Nations Team Resolving crises and arriving at compromise solutions to difficult issues is the goal of the Model UN Team. Moderated by Mr. Zachary Dziedzic, Assistant Principal for Academics, the Model UN Team prepares for the Johns Hopkins University Model UN Conference, which takes place in February. For three days, the team, most of whom represented Norway, took part in numerous committees, which include Disarmament and Security, the International Olympic Committee and many others. Some members did not work on traditional UN committees but “crisis committees” that focus on historical or future crises. Senior Tom Levin rose to power following the assassination of Putin in modern-day Russia. Senior Colin Mosley dealt with war and heresies in medieval Italy. “The most dreaded part of these committees,” explains junior Matt Scheffel, “is the midnight crisis. The students are awakened at midnight for a committee session from 1 am to 5 am to deal with a new and urgent threat.”
“The students have the opportunity at the Model UN Conference to develop confidence in public speaking, to practice the art of diplomacy and to learn about current events. But there is much more to this experience,” insists Mr. Dziedzic. “They work in committees with students from public and private schools all across Maryland and the US, practicing collaboration and compromise. Because it is a multiday conference, relationships are formed and networks develop to complete their objectives. This social, academic experience in many ways approximates college.” Ethics Bowl Team In February of 2016 at the University of Baltimore, a team of Curley students, Liam Breslin, Elton Schwartz, Ethan Mullen, Ben Pape, Alex Caporale and Rory Dudley, entered into the Ethics Bowl competition. “The purpose of the Ethics Bowl,” explains Dr. Alex Stathes, moderator of the Curley team, “is to allow high school students the opportunity to engage in intellectual competition while addressing moral and ethical issues that they confront in their daily lives.” Students research ethical case studies and then argue their position before a panel of judges. They also actively engage with the competing teams’ opinions and evidence, promoting the skills of evidence-based research and argumentation, logical analysis, debate, and the free and open discussion of differing ideas and perspectives. In an atmosphere of collegial competition, participants in Ethics Bowl are encouraged to think deeply, research extensively, and engage actively. It is a fantastic opportunity for any student, and especially for our students here at Curley.
Top photo: Mock Trial Team; middle photo left: It’s Academic Team; middle photo right: Model United Nations Team; bottom photo: Ethics Bowl Team
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ALUMNInews
Austin Woodruff finished his 3rd year of engineering studies at University of South Carolina and is in Spain doing his “summer cruise” aboard a Navy destroyer. Class of 2014 Collin Haslup, a sophomore at Temple University, was accepted into the Design Program of the School of Architecture. Brock Bushyager came to Curley dressed in camo to speak to a group of students about the ROTC Program (Reserve Officers Training Corps) at Penn State. Class of 2015 Soccer alums Eric Schmith ’95, Greg Loftus ’95, Al Billmyer ’94, and Ryan Hax ’95 enjoyed themselves at the Friends of Curley Soccer Bull Roast held on May 14th.
Class of 1965
Class of 2010
Dr. Ed Patro recently retired from Calvert Hall after 35 years of teaching.
Joe Wright works as an operations project coordinator for data and analytics for the University of Miami. Currently he is focused on a campus-wide battery recycling initiative, streamlining how administrative departments capture data across their three campuses, a revamped employment recognition and engagement program, and identifying target areas for retrofit on the main campus.
Class of 1978 On Monday, February 29th, Curley alum Byron Pitts returned to his alma mater to speak to the student body, faculty and staff about “Race in America.” Class of 1979 John Tucker is a member of the nine-person class to be inducted into the National Lacrosse Hall of Fame in September. John is currently the head coach for the Atlanta Blaze of Major League Lacrosse and for the girls program at Concordia Prep. Class of 1980 Leroy Keller was inducted into the Baltimore Catholic League Basketball Hall of Fame on May 3rd.
Class of 2013 Nik D’Avanzo is garnering pre-season recognition for All-Conference and AllAmerican. He has already received interest from several NFL teams. Nik plays for New Mexico University. Mitch Sutton signed a pro contract to play baseball with the Normal Cornbelters out of Normal, Illinois. They are in the Frontier League.
Marty Costes was named to the Big Ten All-Freshman Team in baseball. Luis Turbyfield finished his first year at Mount St. Mary’s University where he was part of the national championship team in rugby. Deonte Harris was recently named Division II, Second Team Football All-American. In addition, he received First Team AllConference & First Team All-Region honors. He was also named as the North East 10 Conference Rookie of the Year. Deonte attends Assumption College in Worcester, MA and led them to the quarterfinals of the Division II playoffs in 2015.
Class of 1998 Jamie Long was inducted into Alpha Sigma Nu, Loyola University Maryland Chapter. Alpha Sigma Nu induction represents those students in the top 15% of their master’s level academic program. Jamie is currently working on a Master’s in Theology. Class of 2001 George ’01 and Pete ’03 Bakoulas have started their own business running a Greek food truck called BMORE Greek Grill. 16
Class of 2006 On April 30, 2016, Tommy Kimbel was promoted to Fire Lieutenant in the Baltimore County Fire Department.
ALUMNInews
Retiring Faculty and Staff
ALUMNI NEWS UPDATE
This year, three members of the Curley family retired. We say goodbye to: Mr. Joe Jancuk (39 years in Catholic Education), Mrs. Kathy Lamont (27 years in Catholic Education), and Mr. Bob Mullauer ’69 (27 years in Catholic Education). Mr. Jancuk came to Curley to teach Theology after Cardinal Gibbons High School. He became Director of Technology and was instrumental in upgrading the network and implementing the iPad Program. Mrs. Lamont served as school nurse and was there when students needed her. Mr. Mullauer was Curley’s resident historian, who made history come alive for his students. We thank these dedicated members of the Curley Family and we wish them well in their retirement.
Mr. Jancuk (pictured above), Mr. Mullauer and Mrs. Lamont
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
REST IN PEACE Andrew Alcarese Sr., father of Andrew ’65 Edward A. Balakier ’76 + Irene Balcar, mother of Joseph ’70 and grandmother of Joseph ’95 + Lavinia Baumgartner, mother of Robert ’68 + Anthony Bednar, father of Cameron ’17 and Justin ’20 + Walter Benicewicz Jr. ’66, brother of Fr. Joseph ’78 + Robert Bialek, father of Fr. Mark ’97 + Louis Bona Sr., father of Louis Jr. ’79 and James ’82 + Phyllis Brownlee, mother of former principal Barry, grandmother of Nick ’96 and Andy ’99 + Rae Byer, mother of Patrick ’83 + David Cahlander, father of Scot ’83 + Charlotte Ciarapica, mother of Michael ’75 + Charlotte Corteggiano, mother of +Joseph Bruce ’65, wife of former staff member, +Erman + Mary Cvach, mother of Jerry ’69, John ’72 and Philip ’79, grandmother of Benjamin ’13 + David Daniel, former faculty member + Gary Daniels ’84 + Dorothy Dembeck, mother of Michael ’78 + Dolores Dudek, mother of Daniel ’68 + Melvin Dziwulski, father of David ’74, Stephen ’78 and Lawrence ’82 + Nicholas Feurer, father of Nicholas ’79 and Anthony Sr. ’82, grandfather of Anthony Jr. ’09 + Catherine and + Vernon Franck, mother and father of Arthur ’80 + Glenn Grasso, father of Brooks ’89, grandfather of Anthony ’20 + Bruce Hineline, father of Larry ’74, grandfather of Joseph ’07 and Michael ’17 + Philomena Hundt, mother of Philip ’74 + Anthony Infussi, father of Anthony ’73
Mary Jancuk, wife of Joseph, former technology director + Lacy Jones, father of Robert ’78 + Paul S. Jones ’90 + Mary Regina LaFlame, mother of Br. Lawrence ’72 and Michael ’76, grandmother of Michael Jr. ’99 + Charles Lansinger, Jr. ’83, brother of Gary ’69 and David ’70 + Robert Lennon, father of Robert ’77 + Margaret Lorber, mother of Anthony ’71 and Thomas ’83, grandmother of Bart ’05 + Claire Madsen, daughter of Michael ’79 + John Marvel, father of Cliff Sr. ’80, grandfather of Dan Merryman ’07 + Anna Mastroianni, mother of Dominic ’80 + Lynn Mayeski, mother of Robert ’07 + Ruth Meeker, mother of Michael ’76 + Dorothy Miller, mother of David Sr. ’75 and Patrick ’88, grandmother of David Jr. ’01 + Margaret Morris, mother of Richard Jr. ’75, John ’76 and Paul ’78, grandmother of Paul Jr. ’02 and CJ Slomba ’09 + Janet Piccinini, mother of Michael ’87 + Gregory Pulignani ’71 + Nicholas Rego ’71 + Rose Saladini, mother of R. Joseph ’65 and Robert ’69 + Julio Salamone, father of James ’67 and Raymond ’71, grandfather of Alexander ’08 + Pauline Schilpp, mother of Paul ’70 and Michael ’79, grandmother of Brian ’94, Ronald ’96 and Daniel ’98 + Michael Simmons ’66 + Gerldine Soellner, mother of Lawrence ’78 + John Walker Jr., father of John ’72 and Richard ’75 + Shawn Weeks ’89
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SPORTSshorts
Selba Named Top Athlete
Spring Sports Update
Three-sport athlete Matt Selba was awarded the Fr. Julian Athlete of the Year award during the Baccalaureate Mass. Selba competed for the football team in the fall, indoor track in the winter, and was a standout for the track & field squad this spring. He is a two-time All-MIAA selection and two-time league champion in the discus. He owns the school record and MIAA Championship Meet record in this event. Selba will attend Mt. St. Mary’s next year and will compete in the decathlon.
The varsity lacrosse team advanced to the conference semifinals where they were defeated by eventual champion John Carroll. Track and Field finished the regular season fourth and finished fifth at the MIAA Championships. Baseball failed to make the playoffs. The JV baseball team fell to Archbishop Spalding in the championship game.
Jake Brown ’17, pictured with head football coach Sean Murphy, was honored at the Baltimore Touchdown Club’s Super 22 banquet.
Elton Schwartz ’16 won the #2 singles title at the MIAA B Conference tennis championships.
All-MIAA Spring Selections: Track & Field- Matt Selba and Deion Booker Baseball- Tommy Holcomb Lacrosse- Anthony Scarpola, Rodney Petit, Cole Butchsky Golf- DeAndre Diggs Tennis- Angelo Petruccy, Robert Kenly
Charles Alderman was Curley’s representative at the annual McCormick Unsung Heroes Banquet.
Tre Pulliam ’16 was nominated for the Baltimore Sun’s High School Athlete of the Year Award. Tre attended a luncheon and awards ceremony hosted by the newspaper on June 1st.
Signing Day For Curley Seniors 23 senior athletes will go on to compete in intercollegiate athletics next year. They were honored at a special ceremony on May 23rd in front of their parents and the student body. BASEBALL Damond Nixon - Mount St. Mary’s Luke Nakich - Kings College GOLF DeAndre Diggs - University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) SOCCER Tre Pullium - University of Maryland- Baltimore County (UMBC) SWIMMING Gerard Whalen - Norwich University 18
FOOTBALL Jonathan Brice - Monmouth University David Wilson - Shepherd University Trevor Brown - Kenyon College Rodney Petitt - Moravian College Larry Thompson - Bowie State University Theo Devine - Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) Brian Smith - Kings College Tim Craig - Stevenson University Dakota Shirk - Frostburg State University Chimaobi Iwumune - Randolph Macon College
LACROSSE Anthony Scarpola - Virginia Wesleyan College EJ Adjaye - Dominican College Jalen Lomax - Goucher College TRACK & FIELD Matt Selba - Mount St. Mary’s University Tory Duckett - Stevenson University Mikyas Kisi - McDaniel College Hansen Oguike - Goucher College WRESTLING James Geer - York College
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Advancement Office 3701 Sinclair Lane Baltimore, MD 21213-2079 (410) 485-5000 Fax: (410) 485-1090 www.archbishopcurley.org Address Service Requested
Join us for these upcoming events: AUG 13
Alumni Cross Country Meet 6 p.m. Curley Bowl
OCT 22-23
Open House 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Alumni Sons’ Reception 9 a.m. each day
SEP 13
Alumni General Meeting 7 p.m. Conference Center
NOV 13
Alumni Memorial Mass 9 a.m. Chapel
OCT 15
HOMECOMING 11 a.m. Soccer vs. Mt. St. Joseph 1:30 p.m. Football vs. St. Mary’s
NOV 25
Reunion Night Classes of ’71, ’76, ’81, ’86, ’91, ’96, ’01, ’06, and ’11 7 p.m. Student Dining Room
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 gmalanowski@archbishopcurley.org