Volume 85 Novemberber 2024 | |
Alumni Association
Forever True
November, 2024
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Teutonia Mannerchor Alumni Luncheon
The alumni Christmas luncheon will be held on Tuesday, December 10, 2024. NOTE: the cost of the Christmas luncheon is $25 which is prepaid. The cost includes the luncheon, 1 50/50 ticket and 1 door prize ticket. If you bring a door prize, you get a second door prize ticket. While you can pay at the door for the luncheon, Jim Eberz is encouraging everyone to prepay to make everything easier on the day of the . Make the check payable to JIM EBERZ and mail it to him at 103 Schenley Rd, Pittsburgh, PA 15217-1170. Beer and soft drinks cost extra. Doors open at 11:00, lunch is served at noon.
REMEMBER THERE IS NO LUNCHEON IN NOVEMBER!
There were 52 alums in attendance at the October luncheon. It was a nice turnout as fall begins. Thanks to Jim Eberz ('64) and Don Gruber ('71) for all their hard work.
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The Class of 1967 took back the title of largest class, and Al Graff from the class of 1965 was a first time attendee. | |
As always, it was good friends, good food, and a good time for everyone. | |
North Catholic Military Salute Homecoming | |
Thanks to all who were on hand for the NC Homecoming Tailgate Party on Friday, Oct. 11 at Lt. JC Stone Field in North Park. A special thank you to our military alumni who took the field prior to the game.
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North Catholic Military Veteran's Brunch | |
Thank you to all who attended the 12th Annual Military Salute Brunch held on Saturday, Nov. 2, at North Catholic High School. Major General George Bauer ('49) presented the NC military challenge coins to all alumni who attended the breakfast for the first time. Thank you to all our alumni who have served and are currently serving in the military.
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A very special thank you to Carmen DiGiacomo (‘59) for organizing such a nice event. | | |
Dr. Bob Sobehart ( ‘95), former LCDR-U.S. Navy and an Iraq War Veteran served as the guest speaker.
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Tom Loebig (‘44) served in WWII and led everyone in singing the Alma Mater.
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Receiving the coin for the first time from l to r: Jim Spuhler (‘64), Tom Way (‘56), Dr. Robert Sobehart (‘95), Ed Rock (‘67) David Briggs (‘58) Dave Capan (‘60), Neil Galone (‘64) and Dr. Robert Meyer (‘62).
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North Catholic Hall of Fame - Class of 2024 | |
Congratulations to the following alumni who have been elected to for the North Catholic Hall of Fame:
Joseph Hmel: long-time, beloved, and respected teacher at North Catholic for 40 years.
Captain Joseph Kuhn ‘54: Retired US Navy pilot who flew in numerous missions.
Kate Lewandowski ‘03: Athletic Trainer, Coach, and Mentor at North Catholic.
Edward Marinzel ‘68: Special Agent in the United States Secret Service, with President Bush during 9/11.
Matthew Szykowny '59: considered to be the greatest athlete in North Catholic history.
They will be inducted at a dinner to be held on Saturday, November 16, 2024, at North Catholic High School. Tickets for the Hall of Fame Dinner can be purchased by CLICKING HERE
More detailed biographical information on the inductees will be in an upcoming edition of the Alumni News.
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ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
North Catholic Halloween Pictures
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We asked for photos - new or old - of alums in costume. Here's what we got
That's the Larkin sisters: Molly ('89), Amy ('83), and Megan ('86). Molly is dressed as a basketball coach.
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Lauren Donnelly ('97) and her kids are the Addams family. | | |
Beetle Juice for Dale Mangold ('81) and friends. | | |
It's Willie Wonka for Missy Hunkele Davis ('10) and her husband. | | |
That's Walt Quinn ('65) and his wife as Prince Philip and Queen Elizabeth II from a few years ago. | | |
Maggie Kutschbach Bailey ('04) always goes all out this time year. It's a candy themed Halloween. | |
The Geferts: Nicole Matschner ('12) and Collin ('12) along with a friend are all about Forest Gump this Year. | | |
Andy Pulkowski ('81) will be making sure no fowls (groan) are committed at his restaurant. | | |
Top Gun is the theme for Geoff Quinn ('94) and his wife. | | |
Paul Morris ('88) sent this one in from the LaRoche yearbook. The caption reads Virginia Lambert and her motorcycle riding escort. She would become his wife and if you know Paul, the caption is perfect. | | |
The neighbors of Mike Quinn ('95) had an unusual theme for Halloween. The women dressed as the cast of Alice in Wonderland (the Queen of hearts, Cheshire cat, and Tweedle Dee) while the men dressed as various food items (bacon and a hot pepper). | | |
That's Fran Lamb Urmann ('02) and her kids. If you are wondering, her daughter is the jelly side of a PB and J sandwich. | | |
if you would like to be an alum who shares their story, you can let us know ...
here.
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NEW RELEASE!
Have you ever found yourself thinking about the rich history of North Catholic's football legacy? Questions like how many times North Catholic triumphed over Central, or the names of all the head coaches who have guided the team through the years, can spark a sense of curiosity and connection to the past.
Dr. Dennis Ranalli (NC '64) has meticulously compiled a comprehensive guide detailing the North Catholic Varsity Football Team Records from 1942 to 2023.
The 75-page guide which details the scores of every varsity game played since 1942 sold out in just one week! However, additional copies are now available for only $20, which includes shipping. Importantly, every dollar from this sale directly supports North Catholic High School, making your purchase a meaningful contribution.
To secure your copy, simply click the link below or send a check payable to North Catholic, ensuring to include your name, address, phone number, and email address. Mail to North Catholic High School, Attn: Amber Morrison, 1617 Route 228, Cranberry Township, PA 16066.
Join us in celebrating and preserving the legacy of North Catholic football while making a positive impact on our school community!
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Transcript Information
Alums who need a high school transcript should note that the process has changed.
Alumni from 1939-2013 should contact Diocesan Archives at (412) 456-3158 for a copy of your transcript.
Alumni from 2014-present should go to northcatholic.org under the Alumni tab and download the request form.
Memories Available
The alumni office has some past editions of the yearbooks. If you can't find yours from senior year, we may be able to help. Not all years are available and supply is limited. Contact us here for information. NOTE: while there is no charge for the yearbook, we do ask that you make a donation to the school.
Some people who have requested yearbooks in the past year have never followed up when informed that a book was available. Those books have gone back into the archives. If you were one of those people, you will have to ask us to pull it back out of the archives.
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Scroll down to learn more about the program and see the businesses taking part in this great opportunity!
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Facebook
You can stay on top of what's going on at your alma mater by following North Catholic on Facebook - www.facebook.com/NCForeverTrue.
Engagements
Congratulations to Joey Spehar ('01) and Jamie Scarfuri on their engagement.
Congratulations to Olivia Solverson ('19) and Owen Daugherty ('19) on their recent engagement.
Congratulations to Bailie Synan ('14) and Katie Dodd on their engagement.
Weddings
Congratulations to Dr. Caitlin Jordan ('08) and her husband Ian Young on their recent marriage.
Congratulations to Ben Klimko ('12) and his wife, Ashlynn on their recent marriage
Con
Births
Congratulations to Jess Hartman Morris ('09) and her husband on the birth of their daughter, Cora Bridget.
Congratulations to Gavin Virag ('09) and his wife on the birth of their daughter, Graciana Marie.
Rest in Peace
Robert W Fleetwood - class of 1963 of 1963
James Stalter - class of 1961
Dennis Cribbins - class of 1965
William Breitenbach - class of 1959
John Sparvero - class of 1955
Nancy Dugan - class of 1980
Charles Clifford - class of 1959
Stanley Lozowski - class of 1953
James Neugebauer - class of 1959
George Lutz - class of 1944
Lisa Oberst - class of 1987
Anthony Melodia - class of 1959
Ted Socha - class of 1979
Dennis Callahan - class of 1965
George Makar - class of 1959
John "Bunny" Ebner - class of 1950
Niccola "Nico" Johns - class of 2025
We have no photo of George Lutz. His age suggests that he graduated in 1944. The school does not have a copy of the 1944 yearbook. We believe that because of the war, none was printed. If there is any alum who can clarify this fact, please let us know. It is also possible that George left North early (like many young men) to enlist in the army. Also Ted Socha did not have a senior picture nor could we find an obituary.
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Request for Prayers
Continued prayers for the following alumni:
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Jay Attanucci ('91)
Denise Enzerra ('82)
Bob Rathke ('59)
Gary Tevis ('68)
Don Lewis ('57)
Fr. Bill Seifert ('57)
Harmer Weichel ('48)
Brooke Sturgis ('20)
William McDonough ('47) and his wife
Bruce Miller ('54)
Chuck Meharry ('88)
Kim Altman Girty ('88)
Santo Pino (59)
Alfred Camus ('57)
Edward Sommers ('64)
Jim ('61) & Rita Finn
Jim Hamm ('59)
Joe Chalovich ('70)
Jim Profozich ('59)
Vince Ranalli ('56)
Dick Turici ('59)
Ed Smith ('47)
James McMahon ('58)
Lori Sullivan ('80)
Bob Schwerer ('55)
Katie Stufft ('26)
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Art Heiles ('64)
General Michael Hayden ('63)
James Brennan ('46)
Merl Bell ('52)
Dave Bauer ('57)
Francis "Fran" Janaszek ('56)
Dan Haefele ('76)
Richard Gross ('57)
Rich Bowers ('57)
Tom Neusch ('62)
Antonela Kasic ('15)
Art Costa ('60) & wife, Sandy
William Ward ('55)
Joe Fucci ('62)
Jennifer Mireles - daughter of James Peiffer ('61)
Bill Yoest ('69)
Bill Kraft ('56)
Don Donatelli ('58)
Tom Loebig ('44)
Tim Rooney ('59)
Fred Slaney ('76)
Charles Hayes ('71)
Tom Cook ('59)
Mary Maloney ('25)
Ed Roche ('73)
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Let us know of any alumni who should be included in our prayers by clicking here.
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MARIANIST WOMEN'S MINISTRY- Prayer Committee
The Marianist Women's Ministry would like to offer alumni and the entire North Catholic community a chance to pray for you and your intentions. The MWM gathers weekly to pray the rosary. Please click this link if you have a prayer request. While they would love to have a first name for each prayer request to make the prayers more personal, it's completely understood if you wish to keep them anonymous.
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Christmas on Campus
Christmas on Campus began more than 25 years ago as an opportunity for North Catholic students and staff to celebrate Christ’s birth with Troy Hill families, especially those who might experience need during the Christmas season. Many of you may remember this tradition. When North Catholic High School moved to our Cranberry Campus, the commitment was forged to keep this tradition alive.
The event has been re-christened as ‘Christmas on Troy Hill’ (COTH) and has grown to become a big and joyous celebration. It is an opportunity that honors our deep roots in this North Side neighborhood, and shares the joy of Christ’s birth with families who would not otherwise have the opportunity to celebrate so abundantly. We are graciously hosted by Most Holy Name of Jesus Parish on Troy Hill, where we hold the event. Troy Hill familes provide us with a wish list of gifts that their children would like. We then offer a sign-up for our North Catholic families (current and alums) to select a child to purchase a gift(s) for them. If you are not in the area, but would like to contribute to COTH, you are welcome to send a donation or Walmart gift card to North Catholic HIgh School (labeled COTH) and these funds will be used to purchase gifts for the children that are not selected and to offset the costs of the Christmas celebration. If you have any questions, please contact Angela at northcatholicmwm@gmail.com.
Here is a link to the wish list.
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Flashback Photo
Last Month's Flashback
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This is a picture from the 1994 yearbook. It was taken during North Catholic's junior senior prom. That's a group of juniors holding their dates flowers. They are nor identified in the yearbook. Once again we got no responses, but a classmate did say that they were "the nerd herd."
This Month's Flashback
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So, looks like an ordinary day during lunch, but it's not. what makes this photo different than any lunch room photo? Can you name the people in the photo? Send us what you know or can guess about this photo.
Send your guesses to us here.
The display case just inside the entrance to the school houses memorabilia from the school's history. There is also North Catholic apparel available.
You can check out the NC gear in the spirit shop by clicking here.
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Class of 1957
John G. Arch, Esq., was recently recognized by the Allegheny County Bar Association as being a 60-year practitioner. On hand for the festivities were sons Jeff ('88), John ('84), and Jason ('93). Unable to attend was Joe ('86). The boys were proud of their old man.
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Class of 1959
Father Gabe Smith (center) recently attended a Leadership and Valor Dinner aboard the USS Yorktown Naval and Maritime Museum. Fr. Gabe was the guest of Joseph Marm (right) who was the recipient of the Medal of Honor.
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Class of 1964
Chuck Struhar and his wife take in the pure mountain air.
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Class of 1966
While in town for the Duquesne University Homecoming, Ed Windisch was presented with the North Catholic Military Challenge Coin by Carmen DiGiacomo ('59)
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Class of 1968
Check out this article written about Ken Balkey that was recently published in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Health and Wellness section. Ken is one of the elite few who has run the Pittsburgh Great Race 47 straight years in a row! Kudos to Ken who is in the second row, third from the left.
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Class of 1969
That's Jim Kastner in Morocco - where the Mediterranean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean.
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Class of 1970
Doctor Mike Lamb and his wife help their granddaughter celebrate her penalty kick.
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Class of 1974
The NC class of 1974 50th reunion was held the weekend of 10/25 with several events: Recognition of the class of 74 50th reunion at the Friday night Trojan Football game; Saturday night Reunion at North Catholic preceded by a school tour led by Walt Quinn and Celebration of Mass in the Chapel; and Sunday brunch at the Hilton Garden Inn.
Over 65 Classmates returned for the reunion, with more than 100 in attendance with guests and spouses. Entertainment was provided by Steven Vance PopRock Electric Violin & DJing a 70’s Playlist, along with an impromptu performance by classmate Jules Thompson. A good time was had by all. Watch for a follow-up email from Ed Ober with list of the reunion attendees and a plan to collect all the pictures so we can pool them.
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Ron Derbis and Ben Dyer: heroes of the gas crisis of 1974 (ifykyk)
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Class of 1975
Medio Monti chatting with NC junior Gabe Martins before the Homecoming game.
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Class of 1981
Andy Pulkowski and his wife enjoy a day in the sun.
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Class of 1983
Amy Larkin Palmer and her husband share an evening out.
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Class of 1984
The Chmuras celebrate their anniversary - that's Charley and Wivina Ayson Chumura.
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Recreating the Magic of the 1984 Yearbook: Go Ahead Make My Day featuring from L to R: Kevin Nauman, Anthony Brown, David Lewandowski, and Brian Peltz.
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Class of 1987
It's the porch life for John Mudrany and his wife.
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Class of 1989
Congratulations to Chris Ragland on being named acting Chief of Police for the city of Pittsburgh. Read his interview with the Trib here.
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Class of 1992
It's Friday night by the fireplace for Myles Rooney.
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Anne McSorley Hollis and her husband are proud parents of their daughter on senior night.
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Class of 1994
Neil Gregorio and his wife celebrate their son's last home game.
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Class of 1995
Michelle Blume and friend getting ready for a refreshing ride in the autumn foliage.
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Enjoying a night out, Lamar Calhoun and his wife smile for the camera.
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Class of 1997
Heather Zahurak Malloy enjoys a mini vacation at the Caboose Motel.
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Bobby Matuzewski meets up with former Trojan Ray Cathie before the Steeler Raider game in Vegas. | |
Class of 1999
Steve Tuite escorts this young lady on her 8th grade volleyball celebration.
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Class of 2000
Dave Naberezny and his mom celebrate son's day.
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No Katie Kutschbach Sweeney ('99) isn't shrinking, her family is getting taller. It does look like Teddy might not be the tallest in the family very soon. | |
Class of 2001
Jonathan Kross MD, placed first in his age group in an 8K run on October 12, 2024. Sponsored by LewisGale Medical Center in Roanoke, VA, this was Jonathan's first long distance run since his time at North Catholic, where he lettered 3 years on the Cross Country team lead by Mr. Paul Stutz. He is pictured in the center of the attached photo.
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Class of 2003
Chelsea Feigel Bennardo is officially a soccer mom.
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Class of 2004
Paul Gerbeschacht and his family get ready for some trick or treat fun.
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Class of 2005
Cody Kishur takes photos to remember his time in Prague.
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Class of 2006
Theresa Schneider basks in the sun in Central Park.
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Class of 2008
Here's the new bride, Dr Caitlin Jordan.
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Class of 2009
While in Vegas for the Steeler game Nikki Surmacy Colicchio and her husband enjoy Fremont Street.
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Class of 2010
Reed McLaughlin and his wife Miranda Jirsa ('13) smile for this selfie.
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It's another night out for Missy Hunkele Davis and her husband. | |
Class of 2011
Claire Lamperski Heinl sits with her children and delivers a message.
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Carly Leffakis Shawley and her family pose for a baptism photo. | |
Class of 2012
Josh Haefele and his family are at his swearing in ceremony as he becomes a Pittsburgh fire fighter.
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Lynzi Mueller Tunstall goes on her daughter's field trip day.
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Angela Nowacki captioned this photo - Yinzer on a glacier.
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That's the new Mr and Mrs Ben Klimko
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Class of 2013
Lauren Bates Battocchi gets ready for her work day.
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Michella Mudd and her family are out for an October hike. | |
Class of 2014
It's a date night for Mason Guckert and his special lady.
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Karly Smrekar is having a good time in the land of blue skies and tall peaks. | |
Class of 2023
Lauren MacDonald, University of Rhode Island soccer player , was recently named A-10 Offensive Player of the Week.
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If you know an alum who doesn't get the newsletter and would like to receive it, send us their email address, and we will add them to the distribution list.
Thanks to Shari Brown Butler ('82), Tom Henchar (‘65), Jim Finn ('61), Tom Dugan ('73), Tara Nicotra Aiello ('91), Courtney Zedrick Proie (‘01) Kevin Colbert ('75), Terry Cronin ('75), Dave Briggs ('58), Ryan Cronin ('04), Kathy Kross, Stanley Socha ('59), Jim Kastner ('69), Carmen DiGiacomo ('59), John Arch ('57),Vince Brogan ('53) and Jim Eberz ('64) for sending information and pictures to us.
If you have news/photos you want to share with classmates, send them to alumni news.
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ALL reunion updates will ALSO be available on the school's website, northcatholic.org or by clicking here!
Want to make sure you get the details for your class reunion?
Update your contact information HERE!
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Reunion News
NC Class of 1965
Planning has begun on the 60th class reunion. Bob Colbert will be leading the committee. Like the 50th reunion, the party will be held at North Catholic on Saturday, June 7, 2025, which marks the date of graduation back in '65. Bob wants you to save that date and look for more information here as details become available. If you are interested in helping with any of the details, you can contact Bob at bobcolbert@comcast.net.
NC Class of 1966
If you want a comprehensive resource organizing any reunion especially a 50th:
Go to YouTube on any browser
Put “North Catholic Reunion Book” on Search bar.
Slides are shown on a 7 second interval automatically or you can scan forward using the scanning bar on the lower left, Bob Gierl can help and is available at robertcgierl@gmail.com.
Bob Gierl says the 60th class reunion will be October 15, 2025!
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NC Class of 1984
Plans are underway for the 40th reunion. Save the date for Saturday November 23, 2024, 7pm-10 pm in the North Catholic Cafeteria. For more information, contact John “Jack” Adlesic at (412) 290-3316 or by emailing umpirejack@yahoo.com
NC Class of 1994
Plans are in the works for a 30th reunion this fall. Stay tuned for more details.
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NC Class of 1999
There may be plans in the works for a 25 year reunion. We will share details when we hear more.
NC Class of 2004
Ryan Cronin sends along this reunion news. We are holding the event at Roland's in the Strip District on Saturday, November 30th. We have a private room, with a full bar that can seat 60 people reserved from 7pm to midnight. To reserve the private room and the bar, we are required to buy the food package. For $25 per person (includes tax and gratuity), we are able to get the heavy appetizer buffet. The bar will be a cash bar. We have to give Roland's a final headcount by November 22nd. If you plan on attending, Jason Casavale is handling the money so his Venmo account is below, so shoot him the money by 11/22. It will give us a good account of the number of people who will attend. You must prepay to attend.
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Class of 1959 Scholarship
The NCHS Class of 1959 Scholarship Fund has awarded $5,200 Scholarships for the 2024-25 School Year to Mary Taggart-Snyder, Kennedy Brown, and Evan Stanton.
The Fund has awarded scholarships totaling $119,200 to fourteen recipients since the inception of the Fund. Contributions to the Fund can be made at any time and should be sent to the North Catholic Foundation, North Catholic High School, ATTN: Class of 1959 Scholarship Fund, 1617 Route 228, Cranberry Township, PA 16066.
If you would like more information about the Fund, please contact Joe Blitzko(joeyblitz@aol.com), Dick Halleran (rhalleran@verizon.net), or Mike Conroy (conroy1603@gmail.com).
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From l to r: Dick Halleran, Mary Taggart-Snyder, Mike Conroy and Joe Blitzko on computer screen.
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From l to r: Dick Halleran, Kennedy Brown, Mike Conroy and Joe Blitzko on computer screen.
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From l to r: Dick Halleran, Evan Stanton, Mike Conroy and Joe Blitzko on computer screen.
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Military Legacy Scholarship
North Catholic has a Military Legacy Scholarship in honor of all alumni who have served in our nation’s military forces. The goal is to provide a $1,000.00 scholarship annually. To date, over $30,000 has been raised to fund this annual scholarship. The scholarship is awarded annually to the student provided certain benchmarks are met.
Every 4 years (or sooner) it is awarded to an incoming 9th grade student. This year’s recipient is freshman Gunner Kopriva.
If you wish, you may make a contribution in someone's honor/memory. Donations can be made by sending checks payable to North Catholic, write "North Catholic Military Scholarship" in the memo, and mail to:
North Catholic High School
1617 Route 228
Cranberry Township, PA 16066
ATTN: Development Office
A kiosk with the names of all alumni who have served in the military stands in the main hallway of the school. Thank you for your service.
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Class of 1965 Legacy Scholarship
The Legacy Scholarship was set up as part of our 50th class reunion by Dan Wolovich and Wayne Young and has been under the direction of Bob Colbert and Walt Quinn for the past few years. As we prepare for out 60th reunion we are hoping to increase this amount twofold.
The scholarship has helped students with the ever increasing cost of Catholic education. When we were at North, almost all of the tuition was paid by our parishes (remember having to face your pastor as he reviewed your report card?) Now the cost of tuition has fallen completely on the parents. Tuition for the upcoming school year is $15,850.
In order to help parents provide the great education that we received all those years ago, we need more of our classmates to step up and help keep our legacy scholarship fund growing. No contribution is too small. Big Shout Out to classmates, BOB MILL andTOM HENCHAR for their recent contribution. Tom along with Joe McKelvey and Bill Gubanic as well as many others continue to make contributions periodically through out the year. Other classmates have continued to make small monthly contributions by setting up a monthly credit card donation (read $10 to $25). The great thing about that is it's painless and adds to the scholarship fund which continues to grow. As of the beginning of November there is over $50,000 in our endowment.
We are happy to announce that this year's Legacy Scholarships for this school year have been awarded to junior MADISON SERETTI. Madison is an honors roll student with a GPA of 3.9 and is the daughter of NC alum, Leslie Filip ('89) She is active in the school's drama department. Senior DONNIE SCHUBERT is a basketball player and also made the high honor roll with a 3.9 GPA.
As we begin planning for our 60th class reunion, we are looking for classmates to step up and make a contribution to the scholarship fund.
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That's our scholarship awardees along with Bob Colbert and Walt Quinn. Other scholarship trustees, Dan Wolovich, Wayne Young, Roy Kim, Tony DiPasquale, and Art Murphy were unable to be there for the photo.
Consider making a donation to the fund today!
You can send your check to the school with a notation that it's for the '65 scholarship fund; or If you would like to contribute a small monthly amount via your credit card, contact Amber Nicotra Morrison to set it up.
If you have questions about our efforts, feel free to contact Bob Colbert (bobcolbert@comcast.net) or Walt Quinn (quinn.walter@comcast.net)
Special Shoutout
John Mikulan is also donating 20% of the royalties from his book, The Bark of the Day to the fund.
Class of 1966 Scholarship
The Class of ’66, is proud to announce the selection of their third scholarship recipient, Maddie Stillwagon ('28), Dom Dixon ('27) and Andrew Scears ('26) were selected by the committee, under the leadership of Tom Balestreire. The committee is well on its way to funding its goal of $150,000 for the Class of ’66 Scholarship Fund. The Fund will be administered by the Class in conjunction with the school. We, Tom Maier, Jim Beran, Hank Marziale, Paul Ladish, and Bob Gierl have contacted many, but if you or someone you know is wishing to be included, contact Tommy, 404.358.4864, text or call.
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Hank Marziale (L) and Jim Beran (R) pose with Dom (C)last year after presenting him with the scholarship. | | |
Kathy Monti Memorial Scholarship
Special thanks to all who donated to the Kathy Hickey Monti (’75) Award. Each year the award is presented to a young woman who possesses the same leadership qualities that Kathy demonstrated in her life. Congratulations to recipients Ava Walker (4.1 GPA), Sara Loughry (4.0 GPA) and Joleen Condle (4.7 GPA). If you'd like to donate, please click here or checks can be sent payable to North Catholic
with "Kathy Monti Scholarship Fund" in the Memo and mailed to North
Catholic High School, 1617 Route 228, Cranberry Township, PA 16066.
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NC Class of 1953 Scholarship
Thank you to all who have donated to the North Catholic Class of 1953 Scholarship Fund. More than $31,000 has been raised thus far.
The class is pleased to announce this year’s freshman recipient is Angelo Vissari. Angelo is the third recipient of the scholarship. He joins sophomore Gianna Fuller who was selected last year to receive the four-year scholarship. Good luck to both students as they begin this academic year.
The Fund was proposed by Reg Urschler in the Spring of 2021, and
an ad hoc committee was established, comprised of Reg, Charley Goetz, Bob Muth,
and Vince Brogan.
The ad hoc committee urges all classmates to make new or
continuing contributions to the Fund. Checks should be made payable to the
“NC Class of 1953 Scholarship Fund” and sent to the attention of: Amber
Morrison, North Catholic High School, 1617 Route 228, Cranberry
Township, Pa 16066.
How fortunate we were to have had the benefit of the education
afforded us. What a wonderful opportunity this provides to all of us and the
remaining families to "invest" in a "guaranteed return on that
investment" by providing a similar opportunity to current students'
futures.
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Thanks to many of you, our list of alumni who have served in our nation's military services has grown to almost 1,500. We thank all of you who have taken the time to help us with this endeavor. If you know of someone who should be on the list, please let us know. We will always appreciate your efforts to help us update this honor roll of our alumni.
To view our Military page on the school’s website, please click here.
Additionally, a kiosk listing the names of all alumni who have served in the military stands in the main hallway of the school.
Thank you to all of our alumni for their service to our country!
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Congratulations to the 2024 Homecoming Queen, Emma Shoemaker. The Homecoming Court and their parent escorts were honored at halftime of the homecoming game.
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Team 5740 joined forces with robotic teams from across the state at the Pennsylvania Advocacy Conference for Technology, an initiative spearheaded by Alex Palmieri and facilitated by Mr Lind. Students Justin Lauffer, Alex Palmieri, Brandon Satz, Dexter Wyant, Spencer Marsico, and Tommy Mack were among 31 attendees advocating for increased STEM funding, specifically for FIRST robotics. State Representative, Gaydos was the guest speaker at this inaugural event.
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Students in Mrs. Bucci's Visual Arts 1 display clay pumpkins on Neon Day. This fun October-themed project teaches students how to use pinch and coil construction, two of the main ways to hand-build with clay.
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During Spirit Week, Principal, Dr Zeb Jansante, wore the jersey of his favorite Steeler, his father Val Jansante. He was a receiver on the Steelers in the mid 1940's and led the team in receiving five straight seasons. It was a record that stood for over 60 years until it was broken by Hines Ward. You can read the full story here.
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Students celebrated Dias de los Muertos, embracing traditions of Mexico, Guatemala, and El Salvador by crafting traditional foods and decorations.
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Forensics
As the season is getting under way, the team is also getting ready to host their 50th (or so) tournament in December.
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Band
Congratulations to the band for their third place finish in Class 1A. Their score of 81.39 was the highest score they have gotten since the marching band returned in 2016
The band celebrated senior night honoring the senior members of the marching band.
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Trojan Sports
Athletes of the Month
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Girls Soccer
The Trojanettes clinched a spot in the WPIAL playoffs. They opened play in the first round as the sixth seed with a 3-0 shutout of Yough and moved on to the quarterfinals against #3 Beaver. A 2-1 victory moved them to the semifinals where they took on Quaker Valley. The Trojanettes lost to the Quakers 2-0. They defeated South Park 5-1 for third place and earned a spot in the state playoffs.
Congratulations to Simone Sharpless and Lauren Mealie who were named to the All-WPIAL soccer list
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Girls Golf
Riley Kontul paced the Trojanettes to a third place finish in the WPIAL Class 2A Championships. The team advanced to the PIAA championship at Penn State. Unfortunately, none of the golfers qualified after the first round.
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Boys Soccer
The Trojans opened the WPIAL playoffs with a first round game 6-0 rout of Southmoreland and faced #3 Deer Lakes in the quarterfinals. Deer Lakes ended the
season with a 3-0 shutout. The team finished the season 15-5. You can read the story of the game here.
Congratulations to Justin Garvey and Arthur Mendonca who were named to the Class 2A All-WPIAL soccer team.
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Girls Cross Country
Anna Morris' 5th place finish paced the Trojanettes to a second place finish in The WPIAL Championships at White Oak Park.
In the PIAA state championships, the girls finished 5th in the state.
Football
The Trojans regular season came to a close against Hopewell as the Trojans won 55-43. Quarterback Joey Felisky passed for 370 yards and 3 touchdowns and
Kennedy caught 7 passes for 122 yards. The Trojans finished the regular season with a 4-6 record and a 3-3 record in the Western Hills Conference. The Trojans were selected as a wild card team and defeated Deer Lakes in the first round. Their come from behind victory moved them into the quarterfinals versus Elizabeth Forward. You can read about their upset win here.
The combination of quarterback Joe Felitsky and Ryker Kennedy were leaders in the WPIAL passing and receiving categories. You can read about them here.
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Hockey
The Trojan iceman are 4-1 following a 4-2 win over Mars.
Girls Volleyball
The Trojanettes received a bye in the WPIAL playoffs. In the quarterfinals, the Trojanettes faced Peters Township and swept them 3-0 and faced Canon-McMillan in the semifinals. With their victory over Canon-McMillan, the Trojanettes will move to the WPIAL finals for the 7th consecutive year. This year they are competing at the 4A level and took on 4A defending champions North Allegheny. After winning the first set, the Trojanettes could not hold on to the lead in the second set, dropping the set 33-31. Losing the momentum, the Trojanettes dropped the third set 25-17. The team now moves on to the PIAA state playoffs.
Basketball
Calling all Trojan Fans and Supporters! It is that time of year again, where the Boys Trojan Basketball Team will be hosting their annual Trojan Tip-Off! We are excited to be bringing in teams from Ohio, Maryland and right here in western PA! Currently we are seeking different level sponsorships to help us put on a fantastic show of basketball, sportsmanship and community. This is a great opportunity for advertisement for any business with varying levels of sponsorship. Currently our needs range from shirt sponsorships, meal/concession donations to monetary donations to pay for miscellaneous items. If interested please consider the different levels below and contact kfredericks@zoominternet.net or Ken @ 412.780.6872. At the very minimal we invite you to attend one of the many games that will sure to be some fantastic basketball! Be sure to follow us on Instagram @north_catholic_boys_basketball or Facebook, The North Catholic Basketball, to get event updates and information!
Sponsorship Levels:
$1000+: name/large logo included on sponsor banner (displayed all season), in our seasonal program, social media, tournament T-Shirt and announced throughout the Tip-Off Tournament
$500: name/small logo included on banner, in program, and on T-Shirt
$250: name included in program and on T-Shirt
$100: name included in program
Food/Drink Donations: These vary from team meals, concession items, ect. Signage will be placed at concession/meal area and in program book, social media
-Specifically we are looking for sponsorship for a catered meal for all our teams on Friday, December 6.
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Girls Tennis
The #1 doubles team of Katie Hardy and Jessica Sinclair along with the #2 doubles team of Samantha Falcon and Macaria Stall led the girls team, but it was Evelyn Marche's come from behind victory that clinched the first ever WPIAL title for the girl's team. You can read the PG story here.
The girls advanced to the PIAA championships where they defeated Bedford and moved on to the quarterfinals. Defeating Lancaster County Day, the team took on undefeated Lower Moreland in the semifinals and there the season ended for the Trojanettes.
The doubles team of Brea Kelley and Katie Hardy were defeated by the doubles team from Scranton Prep in the first round of the PIAA championships.
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Boys Golf
The Trojan golf team won the WPIAL Class 2A Team Championship and moved on to compete for the State championship. The team finished tied for 5th in the state. You can read the story here.
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Planned Giving
Planned giving is a wonderful way to prepare for the day we depart this life and enter into God's kingdom. By planning ahead, you can provide opportunities to young men and women by supporting North Catholic. Planned giving allows us to help continue the work of Christ and pass on our traditions and Catholic Marianist values. Gifts can be specified in one's will as either a dollar amount of a stated percentage of one's estate. A growing number of alumni have taken this step and discovered a great sense of joy and satisfaction that they are helping families. If you are interested in finding out more, please click here or contact Amber Nicotra Morrison in the Development Office at amorrison@northcatholic.org.
For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Luke 12:34
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Online giving to North Catholic is fast, secure and easy!
Because tuition alone does not fully cover the cost of educating our students, we are grateful for every gift made to the Annual Fund, Capital Campaign, Scholarships and various fundraisers. Every gift benefits our students and stays at North Catholic.
Please accept our deepest gratitude on behalf of the young men and women who will benefit most from your generosity.
EVERY gift stays at North Catholic.
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SEND YOUR TAX DOLLARS TO NORTH CATHOLIC INSTEAD OF HARRISBURG!
Taxpayers can opt to have 90% of their tax liability given to North Catholic High School or the private school of their choice through the EITC (Educational Improvement Tax Credit) Program. Funds directed to North Catholic from this program directly support scholarships for students.
The Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) and the Opportunity Scholarship Tax Credit (OSTC) are two programs that can make it possible for many students to receive a Catholic education.
Interested in more information?
Contact Amber Morrison at amorrison@northcatholic.org or
by calling (412) 321-4823.
Watch this short video to learn more how easy it really is!
Click here to watch the short video!
Many thanks to our generous EITC contributors:
COZZA ENTERPRISES
ECKLES CONSTRUCTION
FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF PA
FRANK'S PIZZERIA
GRANT STREET GROUP
HAND & SHOULDER CENTER
HUNTINGTON BANK
THE LYNCH LAW GROUP, LLC
MAHER DUESSEL
NEXTIER BANK
POINT SPRING & DRIVESHAFT CO.
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With over 15,000 graduates world-wide, we strive to spread as much news as we can! If you have personal news, accomplishments, ideas about topics, articles, stories or alumni profiles for our newsletter, please reach out to Newsletter Editor Walter Quinn, NC '65 at wquinn@northcatholic.org or share them with us at alumni@northcatholic.org.
North Catholic High School
1617 Route 228
Cranberry Township, PA 16066
Thank you for your continued support!
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