September 2014 • Vol. 33 • No. 3

Wherever You Go, Whatever You Do, Remember the Honor of Lane.

In 1908 when Lane Tech opened its doors to students, “Shine on Harvest Moon” was the popular tune of the day.

Of course there are no alumni around to substantiate this, but there has always been a strong association between music and one’s high school experiences. At Lane, music not only marks the passage of time, but also provides a means for student musicians to make their mark. For example in 1914 when “Saint Louis Blues” by W. C. Handy was written, another popular song had just been penned by a Lane Tech senior: “Go Lane Go” by Jack T. Nelson, Class of 1915!Fast forward to 1929 when Paul Whiteman’s Orchestra had a hit with “Makin’ Whoopee, and the advanced music curriculum we are now familiar with at Lane was born. When the post-war climate created a scarcity of classically trained musicians from Europe, Director/Conductor Frederic Stock of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra reached out to Lane Tech Principal Bogan. A feeder program was created resulting in a steady stream of Lane musicians establishing careers with the elite CSO including Herman Clebanoff (’35), Franz Benteler (’43) and Edgar Muenzer (’45). One year later, Francesco LoVecchio, (’30) would graduate and begin a seventy-five year career as singer and entertainer with hits like “That’s My Desire”, “Mule Train”, “Black and Blue” and “Rawhide”

under the name Frankie Laine, (said to be inspired by his alma mater). Later generations would hear him singing the theme song of the film “Blazing Saddles” in 1974.While Laine was busy getting his career off the ground, Ken Nordine, (’38) would become famous for voice over work, a decades-long career with WBEZ and the creation of

Word Jazz. Nordine was perfecting and recording the spoken word long before Poetry Slam was a twinkle in anyone’s eye. Earl Zindars, (’45) began composing jazz at the same time that

Nordine was speaking it. Zindars was considered a pioneer in jazz composition and wrote for many jazz artists including Cannonball Adderly and most famously for Bill Evans with hits like “How My Heart Sings”, “Mother of Earl” and “Elsa”. Three years after the release of “How My Heart Sings”, a group called the Buckinghams exploded on the music scene. They had a string of hits in 1967 including “Kind of a Drag” and “Mercy, Mercy, Mercy”. Through the latter part of the sixties they performed at concerts and on television. Founding member and guitarist, Carl Giammarese, (’66) credits his Lane Tech music teacher as an important influence. The band dissolved in 1970 but reformed in 1980 performing at two inaugural balls as well as the Happy Together Tour with other sixties groups. Giammarese and fellow band member Nick Fortuna still tour today. The seventies produced two vocal performers who would go on to have robust careers in theater, television and film. John Herrera’s, (’74) theater credits include national touring companies for Evita and Les Miserables and the Goodman Theatre’s production of Sunday in the Park with George. He has been nominated for both Tony and Jefferson awards in New York and Chicago respectively. Adrian Zmed, (’72) began his career on Broadway in the musical Grease, and subsequently in the national touring company after which he established a career in film and on television, most notably on the series T J Hooker. Both men continue to perform in the theater.Today, Lane Tech is producing a new crop of artists across all musical genres. Young performers, who will have their own high school soundtrack and like their predecessors, will influence what we hear for generations to come.

Background Music by Michelle Weiner ‘76

Lane Tech TODAYNewsletter of the Lane Tech Alumni Association

Alumni Association NewsletterVol. 33 • No. 3September 2014

Editors Mary Beth Ficht

Michelle Weiner ‘76

Contributing Editors Barbara Cook Stuart Eng ‘85

Joe Lawniczak ‘69 Maurel Samonte ‘86

Production Managers Jeff Juhasz ‘76

Steve Juhasz ‘75

Copy Editor Patrick Kasch

Production Team Brian Dolan ‘86

Telephone: 773-935-9351Fax: 773-935-4570

Toll-Free: 877-935-ALUM (2586)

Visit our website atwww.lanetechalumni.org

e-mail: alumnioffice@lanetechalumni.org

Visit Lane Tech’s website atwww.lanetech.org

Published quarterly for the alumni of Lane Tech College Prep High School, Chicago Illinois. We reserve the right to edit submissions for publication due to space limitations. Send news and photographs (not returnable) to:

Newsletter Editor Lane Tech Alumni Association 2501 West Addison Street Room 114A Chicago, IL 60618-5991

President’s Message Stuart Eng ‘85

Like many alumni, some of my most vivid memories of Lane are attached to a musical score. One year my band rocked the Clash’s “Should I Stay

or Should I Go” at the talent show. Another year I got to play the role of Sonny LaTierri in the music theatre production of Grease. Whatever your memories of Lane are, chances are that they include singing the Lane fight song, composed by student Jack T. Nelson, making Lane one of the few high schools in the country with an original anthem.Principal Dignam, an accomplished musician, is bringing tech back to the

school through a new sound engineering program. Students not only have access to Chicago’s best high school guitar program, but they also get to learn how to engineer their own music on professional quality equipment. It’s the nexus of tech and music. One of the recording projects challenges music students to arrange and record their own renditions of our school song.I recently attended the Class of ’84 reunion and not surprisingly, towards the end of the night the crowd broke out in a rousing chorus of “Go Lane Go”. Time passes on but some things stay the same. Best Regards Stuart Eng (‘85)

Board of Directors 2014/15 Meetings Schedule

October 23, 2014December 4, 2014 January 22, 2015March 26, 2015May 28, 2015Meetings take place at 7pm at Lane Tech in Room 113. Please call Alumni office to verify time & location. * December 4th meeting off campus.

Newsletter Deadlines

Fall Issue October 15 Winter Issue January 15 Spring Issue April 15 Summer Issue July 15Mail to: Mary Beth Ficht, Newsletter Editor Lane Tech Alumni Association 2501 W. Addison St. Room 114A Chicago, IL 60618-5991alumnioffice@lanetechalumni.org

Lane Tech Alumni Association Board of Directors

President Stuart Eng ‘85Vice President Michelle Weiner ‘76Treasurer Marion Synowiec ‘64 Past PresidentSecretary Kim Kidd ‘73Board Members Diedre Baumann ‘85 Fred Glure ‘63Jim Guerin ‘72Dennis Hammer ‘71 Past President Joseph Lawniczak ‘69 Avrom Litin ‘83 Sharon Manjack ‘77 Tod McElhaney ‘83 Angela Olah ‘04Jill Rzadzki ‘91 Maurel Samonte ‘86Alumni Staff Barbara Cook - Executive Director Mary Beth Ficht - Program Director

President’s Message ...............................2Reunions .................................................3Scholarships............................................4Walking Down Memory Lane ...................5Alumni Spotlight ......................................6

Inside 2501 .............................................7Alumni News ........................................8-9The Drum Beat ......................................10In Memoriam ......................................... 11Backwards Glance ................................12

Table of Contents

September 2014 • 3

Principal’s Message Christopher Dignam, Ed.D. ‘88

Lane Tech 1949ers +/-Date & Time: Second Thursday of the month in March, June, September & December at 11:30amLocation: Elk’s Club in Des Plaines, ILInformation: The group welcomes all Lane Tech graduates to attend their quarterly luncheons. For more information, contact the LTAA office

Class of 1954 Date & Time: September 26 at 10am & September 27 at 6:00pmPlace: Lane Tech & Des Plaines Elks Club, 495 Lee St., Des Plaines, IL.Cost: $38.00 (for dinner only)Information: Tour Lane Tech from 10am-12pm on Friday, 9/26. The celebration will continue on 9/27 with dinner & music at the Elks Club. To RSVP, please contact reunion chairman, Jack Richardson at (847) 884-0869

Class of 1964 Date & Time: October 17, 9:00am-12:00pm & 6:30-11:30pm Location: Lane Tech & White Eagle Banquets & Restaurant, Niles, ILCost: $60.00 per person for dinner Information: This 50th Class reunion will include a school tour during the day and a dinner banquet at the White Eagle in the evening. For more information, please contact reunion committee members, John Wotring III:johnnywo1@aol.comRich Davis: rjdavis11@hotmail.comMarion Synowiec: synowiec1@aol.com

The Class of 1974 Date & Time: October 10-11Location: Lane Tech and White Eagle BanquetsCost: $45.00 for dinner

Information: Please RSVP to the Alumni Office for tour to be held on Friday at 10am. Dinner and music on Saturday at White Eagle Banquets in Niles, IL. For Payment information, please contact Fletcher Birmingham, Vince Chapa or Jay Burell at Lths74reunion@gmail.com

The Class of 1975Date & Time: October 16, 2015 10:00am-12:00pm & October 17, 2015 6:30-11:30pm Location: Lane Tech and TBDCost: TBDInformation: Save the Date! The Class of 1975 will hold its 40th reunion with a school tour on 10/16/2015 and a Saturday evening dinner on 10/17/15. A small committee has been formed and volunteers are needed. Please go to our website at www.lanetech75.com to get the latest info or email lanetech75@gmai.com

Class of 1979Date & Time: October 24 & 25 at 7:00pm.Location: Mullen’s Bar & Grill, 8313 W. Lawrence, Norridge, IL Information: Pete Sremac is organizing this 35th reunion. It will be a casual evening with cash bar and appetizers and food available for purchase. There will also be a little ‘warm-up’ to the reunion held on Friday, 10/24 at same location. For more information, classmates can contact Pete Sremac at pete@sremac.us

Class of 1995Date & Time: 2015Location: TBDCost: TBDInformation: Jesus Mata and Frank Guerra are launching reunion efforts. To assist in the planning or for more information, please contact him at jmata49@hotmail.com

Reunions

Dear Alumni,Anyone who has attended Lane Tech will attest to our incredibly strong musical history. From orchestra to choir, and from band to jazz, Lane has been known as “the School of Champions” for all things related to the arts. This was true long before my days as a Lane Tech student and continues through the present day in my capacity as Lane Tech’s principal. Today, Lane still affords students a rich musical history and future through our traditional music department offerings, as well and through many new course offerings. Lane not only offers the greatest choir, band, orchestra and jazz programs in any high school, we also offer the largest guitar program in the city and state as well as the only “Sound Engineering” program in the district and in Illinois. Lane Tech opened its first-ever sound engineering program in August, 2013 that combines the physics of sound recording with the business of music and commercial sound production. Lane’s recording studio, “Studio 2501,” boasts a full live room and mix room with state of the art Pro Tools and Apple sound capturing and editing software. Now, not only do our students continue developing 21st century technical skills, they also put those skills to use in recording the works of our choir, band, orchestra, jazz, and guitar programs. Our students continue our tradition of excellence and memorialize it through their very own recordings of “Go Lane Go!”It is with this rich musical tapestry that we celebrate Lane’s musical history and look to our future.

Sincerely,Christopher Dignam, (’88)

LTAA SCHOLARSHIPS ABOUND!As the fall term commences, fourteen Lane graduates will be added to the list of college students receiving scholarships funded by, or administered through the Lane Tech Alumni Association. This year, $111,000.00 is being distributed, bringing the total scholarship dollars awarded since 1985 to $1,190,150! Three cheers for these talented students and the generous people and organizations who are making quality education a reality for our newest Lane alumni.

LTAA - $10,000 - $2,000 per recipientContributors: $6,000 from Rich Kolb (’65), $1600 from Peter Matic (’74) and the balance from various alumni donors

Ashley Padilla College of Wooster

Nina SedenoNorthwestern University

Shania SukhuCornell University

Kornelia SkowronRoosevelt University

Jakub ZurkowskiDe Pauw University

AVES Vocational Education Scholarship - $80,000

Mary Jane Coogan Scholarship for English Excellence - $7,000

LTAA Executive Director Barbara Cook secured this California Community Foundation grant in 2005 and has since been successful in administering $764,000 in scholarship

awards to Lane Tech students. This year each recipient will receive $10.000 for four years.

The Coogan family established this scholarship in memory of Lane Tech English teach, Mary Jane Coogan.

Jonathan Irizarry University of Illinois – Chicago

Alexander Pauer California Polytechnic State

Angelica Soto University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Gomez Scholarship - $3,000 Gerritson Music Scholarship - $3,000

Ciro Gomez (’72) funds two $1500 scholarships to architecture students Sasha Gerritson (’90) supports this award for students pursuing a music degree from Northeastern Illinois University.

Piotr Jelonek Illinois Institute of Technology

Aaron GuevarroUniversity of Illinois – Chicago

Allen Park

Northeastern Illinois University

Kabot Art Scholarship - $3,000 Kutzman Scholarship- $4,000 Leibfritz - $1,000

This is a newly established scholarship by John Kabot (’64) for a student pursuing an art degree.

Gerald Kutzman (’60) funds this award to students attending either of his alma maters; University of Tampa or University of Southern

Mississippi

Mrs. Patricia Cherry established this scholarship in memory of her friend, Mr.Walter Leibfritz, a former shop teacher at Lane Tech. The

scholarship is awarded to a Lane Tech student showing an interest in a technical field.

Andrea GuerreroUniversity of Illinois - Chicago

Melanie VasquezUniversity of Tampa

Max ZelenkaUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

4 • Lane Tech Today

Class of 1969 Reunion by Joe Lawniczak, ‘69

Our 45th reunion program held on May 30th kicked off in the Civics Room 113 with stories and laughter about high school pranks, favorite teachers, shop classes and the proverbial “what are you doing these days”. With a

background display of memorabilia spanning decades, Edwina Thompson, Assistant Principal, provided an update on the “state of the school”, curriculum and the many academic/athletic/arts/music achievements and awards whereby even alumni can continue to share the pride in the School of Champions. A tour of the school especially enjoyed by alumni spouses was led by student docents who traced the history of the school’s art, architecture, and introduced us to the new Aquaponics Lab. A special demonstration was put on by students in the Robotics Lab who recently competed internationally. Their engineering skills, teamwork and wonderful enthusiasm impressed everyone and underscores how Lane helps build future leaders.Lane’s Memorial Garden (originally dedicated in 1947 and rededicated in 2011) served as part of the venue for the reunion. The fantastic catered dinner was enjoyed there along with symphonic music played by students from the Lane Tech String Ensemble. A door prize was won by guessing where “secret photos” in Lane were taken…. inside the Clock Tower. Special guests for the evening included Dave Schlichting, (teacher 1964-1983, Assistant Principal 1983-1993, Principal 1993-2000), and Bill Monteleone, (teacher 1958-1993). The evening was capped off by Bill leading the group in a rousing chorus of “Go Lane Go”.Special thanks indeed go out to Barbara Cook and Mary Beth Ficht from the Lane Tech Alumni Association office for all their hard work in helping make the event possible. Jim Ascot and Joe Lawniczak, reunion organizers, look forward to making the 50th reunion an even greater success.

Class of 1984 Reunion

The 30th reunion of the Class of 1984 took place July 26th through the 28th and included a Saturday night cocktail reception at the Packinghouse in Chicago’s

west Loop, a sentimental, sandy, Sunday reunion at Foster Avenue beach the next morning, and a tour of the school campus the following Monday. Jaime Hersch-White and the planning committee did a stellar job of creating a fantastic celebration down to every last detail including an event logo and commemorative T-shirt! The group is already thinking about their 35th reunion! In her account of the celebration, Laura Heller writes: “We changed in so many ways, For sure we grew older, wider, balder, grayer, a bit wrinkled, but we also grew wiser and more experienced. Thirty years has changed us all, thirty years later the school still stands, graciously and proudly aging here and there, and as we strolled the halls, I paid special attention to the ghosts of my past by peering in the rooms in which I sat. As the tour ended, we all took a walk towards “Hero’s Subs” one last time”.

Walking DoWn MeMory lane

aluMni Spotlight

Paul and Mark Carrera, ‘87

Paul is currently in his twenty-first year as a music educator. He holds a bachelor’s degree in education from Northeastern Illinois University and a master’s degree in educational administration from Chicago State

University. Prior to his current position as choir director at Lane Tech, he taught at Smyser Elementary School. Mark has been working for CPS for twenty years. His career as a music educator began at Twain Elementary School and for the last sixteen years at Lane Tech where he has held positions of Choir Director and Department Chair. He is also a graduate of Northeastern Illinois University and earned his M.Ed. at Concordia University. Together they teach beginning male and female choir, bel canto female choir, and advanced mixed choir, inspiring budding musicians to realize their potential and develop a life-long love of music.

Paul Carrera, ‘87LTAA: How did your experience at Lane as a student shape your career?PC: My career and attitudes about teaching were definitely influenced by my experiences as a Lane student. As a music major, I remember taking four music classes every year and being immersed in classical training. I participated in many practical and rewarding activities that helped develop my music abilities including playing cello in the orchestra, piano solos, and participating in small string ensembles.

LTAA: Did you have a favorite teacher while a student at Lane?PC: My favorite teachers were all music teachers including John Cina, George Rico, and Eugene Mitofsky. They were all outstanding musicians, educators, and mentors. They were passionate about music education and had high expectations for their students. I often see their positive influences in my own teaching as I interact with current students.

LTAA: Are there some things about students and music that tran-scend time? PC: One of the things that I love about music is that it allows a group of diverse students to achieve great things as they work together.

LTAA: No sibling rivalry? How is it that the two of you stay in such “harmony”? PC: I never imagined that I would have an opportunity to teach at my alma mater. I definitely never thought that I would share the experience with my twin brother in the choir department and it is definitely a high point in my teaching career. “Teaching Twins” in the same classroom give our students an experience they will never forget. We often share silly stories about our childhood growing up as twins to lighten the learning atmosphere. We have a shared vision for what we want to accomplish as choir directors which helps us pull in the same direction. I think our students recognize and appreciate this unique learning opportunity.

LTAA: What is the most memorable experience of your time as a student at Lane?PC: My favorite memories as a student are of my participation in annual solo and ensemble contests. The highlight of my senior year was earning three Superior medals at the CPS competition. I remember playing Samuel Barber’s “Adagio for Strings” with a small string ensemble. It is one of my favorite pieces to this very day, and brings back wonderful memories of my experiences as a music student whenever I hear it.

LTAA: What is the most memorable experience of your time teach-ing at Lane?PC: My favorite memories as a teacher are also centered around solo and ensemble contests. Watching students achieve success through high level music performance is always a great way to cap off a year of teaching choir. It is exciting to see students’ progress throughout the year as they work on art songs, arias, and small ensembles. I know that my students are creating memories that will last a lifetime.

LTAA: What kind of music do you listen to?PC: My favorite music is opera, especially Puccini’s “La Boheme”.

Mark Carrera, ‘87LTAA: How did your experience at Lane as a student shape your career?MC: I attended Lane Tech and was enrolled in the Music Major curriculum as a violinist. As a student I was able to participate in many musical experiences that really cultivated my musical interests. By the end of my senior year I knew that I wanted to teach music.

LTAA: Did you have a favorite teacher while a student at Lane?MC: My favorite teacher was John Cina. Back then, we had four periods of music each day, sometimes 5 or 6 if you included the time we spent hanging out during lunch (or cutting other classes!).

LTAA: Are there some things about students and music that tran-scend time? MC: Good music transcends time. In the choral program we are still singing songs and arrangements that I heard and performed back in 1987. These works of art connect people from all generations and allow performers of all ages the opportunity to share in a common experience. Only music can do that!

LTAA: No sibling rivalry? How is it that the two of you stay in such “harmony”? MC: There is sibling rivalry, Paul achieved National Board Certification a year earlier than I…..he doesn’t let me forget that, but I was department chair for many years and was actually his boss.

LTAA: What is the most memorable experience of your time as a student at Lane?MC: The Semi-Annual Concerts are memorable highlights of my high school experience. As I a teacher, I know how valuable this is for my students and I do all I can to make each concert special.

LTAA: What is the most memorable experience of your time teach-ing at Lane?MC: Each concert has been special to me. There is an exciting bond between teacher, student, parent and guest during a performance. There are many moods and emotions felt during a great performance. Students and parents all take pride in what they have witnessed and accomplished. It is quite an amazing experience.

LTAA: What kind of music do you listen to?MC: I listen to a variety of styles. Each decade and genre of music has something to like…except much of the music from the 80’s (haha).

September 2014 • 7

Inside 2501

A snapshot of what’s happening at Lane today

In May 2014, Lane Tech Physics teacher, Mr. Scott Vessalo and former student, Robert Harris III (’13) were honored at the 4th Annual White House Science Fair hosted by President Obama. The annual event is focused on supporting and celebrating the efforts of STEM education (Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics). Lane has made tremendous advances in this area with successes in Aquaponics, Science Fair competitions, Robotics and Science Olympiad for which Vessalo and Harris were recognized.

Seven seniors from the Class of 2014 were awarded National AP Scholar status by the College Board. The seniors achieved this status by earning an average score of 4 or higher on at least eight AP exams. Congratulations to Juan Angulo, Aedan Benna, Magda Bujnowska, Ivan Gutierrez, Timmy Li, Khoa Tran and Adam TuoheyBoth the Boys and Girls Varsity Cross Country teams won City Championships. The Boys team also earned the State Regional Championship and became the first 3A Boys Team to qualify for State 3 years in a row.

Lane was recently ranked 67 out of 500 in Newsweek’s “Beat the Odds-Top Schools for Low-Income Students” Read more about it at http://www.newsweek.com/high-schools/beating-odds-2014

Sports Highlights from 2014

The Girls Soccer team won the Conference Championship and also won the Sportsmanship award. Sofia Pavon was voted the number one player in city and received all-city and all-state first team awards. Sofia is a third time recipient of these awards.

Boys Tennis finished 5-1 in the red north. Yahn Bawrit won the singles City Championship and doubles team of Mitch Stoops and Sasha Salk also took home a City Championship.

Boys Varsity Track and Field won the City Championship. David Schmieg (’14) and Pavlo Hutsalyuk (’15) are nationally ranked in the 1600m. Their 4x800 relay was ranked number one in the state.

The Lane Tech Hockey Club re-established their presence by earning a record of 17-1-2 in the Illinois High School Hockey League Hayes Division. They also won the Burton Cup Championship Trophy.

Girls bowling were city champs led by Senior Jenna Dicaro. They were undefeated in the conference and won the Mather Christmas tournament.

Varsity girls softball won the City Championship.

Boys Volleyball took first place in their conference.

Indians 2014 Football Schedule8/29 Lane vs. Mather 7:15 (Lane Stadium)9/6 Lane vs. St. Pats 11:00 a.m. (Hanson Stadium)9/12 Bogan vs. Lane 7:15 (Home Game)9/19 Lane vs. Simeon* 7:15 (Gately Stadium)9/27 Lane vs. CVS* 7:15 (Gately Stadium)10/4 Dunbar* vs. Lane 7:15 (Home Game - Alumni Fellowship Game)10/11 Lane vs. Whitney Young• 7:15 (Rockne Stadium)10/18 Curie* vs. Lane 4:15 (Home Game)10/25 Playoffs 7:15Dates and times subject to change. Please visit lanetech.org for more info.*Conference Game

Robert Harris (‘13) pictured second from right and Mr. Scott Vessalo far right.

8 • Lane Tech Today

‘48James H. Conrod writes; “I really appreciate the good job you do with the Alumni Association and the newsletter! Lane holds wonderful memories and made a great contribution to my life and work. Go Lane!”

‘56Walter “Wally” Hammond resides in Jacksonville, FL and enjoys reading the Alumni Association newsletter. He recently remarried this past June and is hoping a 60th reunion will be planned in 2016.

‘57Rudolph J. Dichtl recently took a ten week tour of Europe with his wife Marlene. They traveled through France, Italy, Austria, Germany, Poland, and a weeklong Viking Cruise boat down the Rhone, seeing friends and family along the way.

‘59Richard celebrated his 50th wedding anniversary in early August. The theme was a 50’s sock-hop including Lane Tech memorabilia. Richard’s guests include several Lane Tech alumni who were his groomsmen. Richard and his brother Jim Hennessey (’63) who traveled from Washington state to attend Richard’s anniversary party visited the Alumni office.

‘60Dr. and Mrs. Gerald Kutzman recently completed a four month long cruise around the world. They were accompa-nied by several close friends on this 45,000 mile adventure on which they were passen-

gers on all three of the Cunard Line Queens. They visited al-most fifty ports of call which included some of the most beauti-ful, most fascinating, most heavily populated, wealthiest, and most dazzling cities and areas on the globe. They also landed at some of the poorest and most primitive places.

‘62Richard Bailey has a published book called “Stormy: A Novel of Climate Change.” It pulls no punches detailing our current weather crisis. For more information about the book, visit website: http://thelastcenturybook.com/index.html or contact Richard directly at email: rbaileyporter@gmail.com.

Harry Blesy contributed photos and is pictured in the book, “Lake View”. The book also features contributions from other Lane Tech graduates too. The book contains more than 200 vintage photos of Lake View’s old days, from boxing at St. Andrew’s to the Belmont Theater to the Turners clubs. The author of the book is Matthew Nickerson. It’s available for purchase at Barnes and Noble bookstores or you can call the author for an autographed copy (773) 248-9452.

John Kowalski (’62) and Coach Ellis are reconnecting on a weekly basis since Coach Ellis is a member of Sachs Recreation Center in Deerfield where John works. Coach Ellis taught P.E. at Lane during the 1950s & 60s and attended the Class of 1962 50th reunion in 2012 where they first reconnected.

‘63Robert Hamlin began his career at IBM in 1968 and had many administrative and education mgt. positions in IBM Education. He managed the relocation of the Chicago Technical Education Center from Chicago to Atlanta in 1989 and took early retirement in 1994. He designed and built a solar electric home on Strom Thurmond Lake (bordering SC) in 2008. He loves the outdoors and wildlife.

‘70Jeff Olsen graduated from Illinois State University in 1974 with a B.S in Economics. He retired in 2011 as postmaster in La Jolla CA with 37 years of service with USPS. He lives in Encinitas, CA.

8 • Lane Tech Today

Richard Hennessey (’59) pictured left and Jim Hennessey (’63) pictured right

John Kowalski (’62) pictured left and Coach Melvin Ellis (right)

aluMni neWS

September 2014 • 9

‘74Perry Martin & his wife, Denise are co-owners of the 2014 Kentucky Derby winner, California Chrome. Perry and Denise were highlighted in a Chicago Sun-Times article about their Chicago connection. “It would have seemed preposterous had you told them that night: The two Chicago kids would marry, start at family and, a generation later, co-own California Crown…”-Patrick Finley, Chicago Tribune June 5, 2014 article. To read more go to:http://www.suntimes.com/sports/27898147-419/chicagoan-california-chrome-co-owners-have-been-content-to-remain-in-the-shadows.html

‘85Gregory Canady received a B.S. in business management and a M.S. in information technology. He has been in the IT industry for eighteen years and is currently an IT security consultant. A former college DJ, he continues to DJ part time and is married with two children.

‘93Kenneth Lee is the owner of Lee Chiropractic Center in Des Plaines, IL. His center opened in 2000.

‘95Laura Racic-Fachet graduated from North Park University in 2003 with a BSN. She became a charge nurse on a busy stroke/telemetry floor outside Chicagoland area and been married for 11 years with four children ages 9, 7, 4 and 3.

‘00Ricardo Gutierrez received a B.A. in Spanish and an M.A. in education and has been a CPS Teacher for 8 years.

‘04Stephanie Carroll is a music teacher for Horizon Science Academy and Chicago Public Schools

‘09Liz Cambron Rodriguez received a B.S. Health Sciences in 2013 and is currently starting Ph.D program at NDSU in Cellular and Molecular Biology

Perry Martin (’74) pictured left holding the Kentucky Derby trophy

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The Drum BeatFollowers of the LTAA website and Facebook page were asked what song they most associate with their years at Lane…

Claudia Coco Naykene (’10) “Eye of the Tiger” (awesome athletics program with numerous city and state titles)Phil Gutierrez (’95) Toss up between “Come Out and Play” by The Offspring or Michael Jackson’s “Heal the World” (1995 Intl. Days Theme)Nathalie Magallanes (’06)“The Chicken Song” the Polish club used it every year for International Days, and anything Pink Floyd. Paul Gonley (’81) Jimi Hendrix’s National Anthem because every year some freshman would start a petition to get it played instead of the traditional scratchy version.Maureen Wade (’99)“Bad Days” by Flaming Lips Sue Ptak Earle (’83) “Another One Bites The Dust” ... Go Lane Football!!Jorge Munoz (’94) “Perculator”Sandy R. Morales (’08) “Hollaback girl” Marilyn Anders (’87) Pink Floyd- “Another Brick in the Wall”Kenneth Rozkuszka (’66) The entire Motown scene Giuseppe Nazzario Cicero (’99) Alternative Rock Q101... Lesley Weile (’96) International Days song “Heal the World” Margaret Ehlscheid Ohlwine (’89) “We Are the Champions!” Sung by our varsity gymnastics team city win! Glenn L Guillermo (’66) “Satisfaction”Lora Susan (’92)“Hang on Sloopy” and “We Didn’t Start the Fire”....all played by LTHS marching band of course!Dorothe Wiedle (’82) Journey… “Open Arms” Peter Oberdick (’75) The 1812 Overture done with Howitzers from the Illinois National Guard. Kristin A. Hamilton (’05) “Go Cubs Go” played over the loud speaker every morning during the MLB playoffs of 2003.

Lorraine F Dziadkowicz-Pruim (’89) “Bizarre Love Triangle” by New Order Shanna Joy (’97) Handel’s “Messiah” because Mr. Rico would make us sing it every ChristmasFrankie Monaco (’02) “Time to Say Goodbye”. It was sung at our graduation Bernadette Navarro Yee“Red Red Wine” UB40 1988 ... my freshman year.Cory Gunderson (’87) “Jump” by Van Halen. It reminds me of the Cubs of 84. Bill Thorson (’81)Lane Tech Rowdies!!. 1976-1984Elida Ortiz (’92) “Praise Jerusalem”.... concert band lead by Dr. Ben Stoller. Such a powerful, masterful and inspirational piece.Nelson Coronado (’89)“True Faith” - New OrderDavid W Matusek (’86) “Let the Good Times Roll” by the CarsKen Larson (’71) “Midnight Confessions” by the Grass Roots for class of ‘71. They were the prom band at Melody Mill (now gone). As they took publicity photos for their greatest hits album, some Lane tux jackets were borrowed as Bruce Rapa tells me.Lisa Gold (’80) 1812 Overture when Mr. Golden took us to play at Orchestra Hall in 1978. Walter Butch Brzeski (’83)AC/DC‘s “Highway to Hell”......It was played at parties, on the lawn, and in the football locker room (LT ‘83)Torello Tacchi (’59)“Night Train” by Buddy Morrow played at the end of the “social” dances, Edward Ciecka (’67) “Paint it Black”- Rolling Stones

Richard Davis (’64) “Be True to Your School” - Beach

Boys.Andrew Flor (’76)Alice Cooper’s “Schools Out”, Led Zepplin’s “Dancing Days” and Steve Miller Band’s “Take the Money

and Run” plus “Purple Haze” and “Take a Walk on the Wild Side” on the juke box at Lennies.

10 • Lane Tech Today

September 2014 • 11

In Memoriam1930-1939

Stephen W. Wagner (’36) Unknown1940-1949

Robert F. Casey (’42) 12/2013Walter Skrzynecki (’42) 11/8/13Edward Groya (’44) 8/3/13Gregory a. Bauer (’45) 6/7/14Richard Berger (’45) 5/22/14Richard J. Hansen (’45) 3/18/14Peter H. Loser (’45) 3/24/14John Mross (’45) UnknownJoseph R. Bertini (’46) 5/2010Alvin Brust (’46) 1/24/13Jack Friedl (’46) UnknownWilliam J. O’Reilly (’46) UnknownFrank A. Pusateri (’46) 11/29/11William R. Scharlau (’46) UnknownGeorge Stylinski (’46) UnknownNicholas Marx (’47) 3/27/14David G. Saulnier (’47) 4/20/14Fred T. Schick (’47) 7/16/14Donald Walsh (’47) 4/8/14George Wendt (’47) 6/13/14Donald R. Carlson (’48) 6/26/14William Snowhook (’48) 10/23/13Bernard J. Grant (’49) 7/2013

1950-1959Robert Fuchs (’50) 5/31/14Robert H. Eder (’52) 7/31/14Wayne Gaerlan (’52) 10/22/13Gerald Struck (’52) 8/13/14Eugene Badal (’55) 1/6/99Gerald E. Benson (’55) UnknownDon S. Delinger (’55) 5/12/13Fred Garlick (’55) UnknownDon Hermanson (’55) UnknownHarold Kling (’55) 5/24/12Franz Lewis (’55) 8/26/05Michael Mayer (’55) 1/21/10

Ronald P. Papas (’55) 4/23/12Walter Stempien (’55) 5/5/14William Zaloschan (’55) UnknownLeRoy J. Gowlovech (’56) UnknownAloysius Jaloszynski (’56) 4/4/12Jared Johnson (’56) 7/8/08Richard Kasten (’56) 12/2009Richard Norgaard (’56) 6/17/13Norman W. Friese (’57) 6/10/14Bernard D. Giere (’57) 7/31/13Walter Kazakeich (’57) 5/5/13Robert Lauffenberger (’57) 5/2014John M. Sorman (’57) 4/22/14Ronald Staschke (’57) 8/9/14Charles Voight (’57) 4/6/14Raymond W. Wildtraut (’57) 7/6/14Gordon W. Feltz (’58) 11/28/13Robert Newgard (’59) 1/3/14Richard Solwoda (’59) 7/30/14

1960-1969 Guy Stephens (’62) 5/23/14Leonard T. Grandy (’64) 5/29/13Nils Isacsson (’65) UnknownHenry Plonka (’65) 2008Michael Fisher (’66) UnknownFrank J. Novak (’66) 6/5/90Ronald R. Novak (’69) 11/3/9

1970-1979Walter Moskal (’71) 5/12/14Leroy Budnik (’73) 9/20/13Gene Alcozer (’75) 9/2004James Beier (’76) 1/25/08Russell Richter (’76) Unknown

1970-1979Kristopher Dahlin (’81) 4/7/14

FACULTYGeorge Rico 8/10/14Music Teacher

Correction and Acknowledgements

Spring Issue, Page 6 Dr. Richard Razgaitis (’61) was part of the launch team from the first Apollo mission through the Lunar Landing of Apollo 11 in August 1969.Thank you to Rich Dzierwa. (’80) for our new “Drum Beat” feature name.

Farewell Mr. Rico

The Lane Tech family recently lost one of its most beloved teachers when George

Rico passed away at the age of 94 on August 10th. Mr. Rico taught music for more than five decades, most of that time at Lane, where he mentored hundreds of grateful students, many of whom carry on his legacy today as performers and music educators. Mr. Rico was a veteran of WWII and a graduate of DePaul and Northwestern. He pioneered the hipster mustache and was widely known for his dapper dressing including larger-than-life

bow ties, his “Rico-isms”, but mostly for his contagious love of music. The Alumni Association extends its condolences to Mr. Rico’s family, both biological and musical.

Lane Tech Alumi Association, Inc.2501 W. Addison Street, Room 114AChicago, IL 60618-5991

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Nonprofit OrganizationU.S. Postage Paid

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Backwards Glance

“True music must repeat the thought and inspirations of the people and the time.”

George Gershwin

1932-1933 Lane Tech OrchestraHenry Sopkin - Conductor

Herman Clebanoff - Concertmaster Fritz Siegal - 2nd Chair.