Vol. 9, No. 2

2009 Is there $500,000.00 in STP’s future Anonymous Donors Issue BCACS Also inside alf illion ollar hallenge • 2009 Reunions including A H -M D C the heartwarming? Atha/ Gift contingent on raising $500,000.00 of new Marriott Wedding • BCACS Today featuring Spirit of Community donations by Dec. 1, 2009 new Tiger football coach, he Battle Creek Area Catholic Schools have been instrumental in the success of our John Hume, the return of TFoundation announces a challenge capital campaign,” said Gallagher. “This Fr. Bob Creagan, and STP pledge honoring the leadership of Reverend challenge pledge is a tribute to Father John’s Campus Ministry John D. Fleckenstein, Former Pastor of St. pastoral and school leadership and his overall • Alumni Commentary by Joseph Parish and Pastor Administrator for commitment to our community. We are ap- the Battle Creek Area Catho- preciative for all that he has Patti (Schoder) Emmerson, lic Schools. Once this challenge is done to advance our schools Class of 1973, and Paul Kathy Gallagher, Devel- reached, we will be able and especially this project. Newman, Class of 2009 opment Director of the Battle to move forward with We invite the community’s • Meet our 2009 Distin- Creek Area Catholic Schools support of our In the Spirit guished Alumni & Hall of Foundation, noted that we the project at St. Philip. of Community Capital Cam- must raise $500,000 by De- paign.” Fame Recipients cember 1 in order for the donor(s) to contrib- Potential donors can contact Kathy Gal- • Upcoming STP Alumni ute their matching gift to the campaign. lagher, Development Director at the BCACS Events, Nomination Dead- Once this challenge is reached, we will Foundation, at 963-4771 for information lines, Keeping in Touch, be able to move forward with the project at about the challenge pledge. St. Philip. Look inside for more details and how and so much more! “Father John’s vision and leadership you can help BCACS answer this call.

Have STP Alumni News to Share? Call 269.963.4771 or email [email protected] page 1 Alumni’s Guide to Who, What, Where, When & Why Take a look with your calendar book 14th Annual Alumni Homecoming Reunion All Proceeds Support BCACS Scholarships ll alumni and friends tinues at St. Philip Church, nasium. The 2010 Distin- Aare invited Saturday, where all alumni will be guished Alumni will be October 2, 2010, for a full honored at the 4:30 p.m. honored and the school will Sheila Guerra day of nostalgia, food and mass. We will also recog- be opened for all alumni fun. nize the Class of 1960 as to explore. Reconnect and The reunion begins they celebrate their 50 year reminisce while wander- Memorial Golf Outing Saturday at 1:30 p.m. at C. reunion. ing the hallways and class- W. Post Field for Big RED Festivities conclude rooms of your alma mater. Sunday, September 19, 2010 Football. During the game, with a hors d’ouvres and Don’t miss a moment the Athletic Hall of Fame cocktail reception held of the fun. Mark your cal- Allwyn Downs Inductees will be honored. from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at endars today! The celebrating con- the Sheila Guerra Gym- Contact Vicky Groat 2010 Hall of Fame & Distinguished Alumni [email protected] or 269.963-4503 Nomination Forms due March 31, 2010 We invite your nominations for the St. Deadlines for both forms are March Philip Athletic Hall of Fame and the Dis- 31, 2010. tinguished Alumni Awards. Hall of Fame recipients will be hon- Michael J. Hume Nomination forms can be download- ored at the 2010 Homecoming Football ed at www.bcacs.org or you can receive Game. The Distinguished Alumni Awards a form by contacting Kathy Gallagher at ceremony will take place at the Alumni (269) 963-4771 or by email at kgallagh- Homecoming Reception that same day. 20th Annual [email protected]. Big Red Open Saturday, June 19, 2010 Calling All Members of the Classes of 1930, 1935, 1940, 1945, 1950, 1955, Riverside Country Club 1960, 1965, 1970, 1975, 1980, Contact Mary Rabbitt for more information or to register 1985, 1990, 1995, 2000, & 2005 [email protected] Celebrate Your Milestone Year Homecoming Weekend 269.963.4503

Please join our Battle Creek Catholic Community for our 4th Annual ugust Planning a Reunion? Community Wide Mass A 13, 2010 November 22, 2009 STP Alumni Have STP Alumni News to 10:30 am W. K. Kellogg Auditorium Share? Celebrant: Summer Block Party The Most Reverend Paul J. Bradley, Bishop We Want to Hear from You!

Save the Date... Watch bcacs.org, Bauman Softball Tourney the STP Alumni Facebook page at Alumni News “saintphilip”, and your mailbox for April 17, 2010 269.963.4771 more details [email protected] ...details to follow

Have STP Alumni News to Share? Call 269.963.4771 or email [email protected] page 2 SweetheartLet me call you By: Father Chuck Fisher, Pastor of St. Philip Church wo St. Philip High School classmates were mar- ceremonies. Most of the Tried on May 30th this year. Not unusual, you remaining members of the say? They were classmates in the graduating class of famous Class of 1944 were 1944. Now that’s unusual! present. Many family mem- Mary Lou (Dowd) Atha of California and Jo- bers took an active role seph Marriott of Colorado decided to come back to in the Mass. A priest Lou St. Philip Church in Battle Creek to celebrate their knew well from Ireland, Fr. marriage, 65 years after graduating. After graduat- Myles O’Reilly, SJ, came ing 65 years ago, Lou and Joe went their separate to preside at the Mass. He ways. Each was married for 56 years. Each has been was assisted by Fr. Anthony widowed. Each has four living children, and more Bitchapogu from India, by grandchildren than anyone bothered to count. way of Kalamazoo, and my- A phone call connected them about 13 months self. It was fitting that such a ago, when Joe while visiting Battle Creek dropped wedding would require three in on the usual Wednesday evening gathering of the priests from three different con- Class of ’44 and decided to check on Lou at her Cali- tinents. fornia office. This led to several dates in California A festive luncheon for about 90 and a trip to Ireland and then the decision last Decem- guests was held in the St. Philip cafe- New- ber to marry. (Some of these seniors move quickly, teria, a relic from long before 1944. Two lyweds, ik Dzw even at age 83.) days later the bride and groom were to stop Photo by: Cas Mary Lou The wedding Mass was lovely. Lou had her off for Joe’s college reunion at Notre Dame before (Dowd) Atha, Class of maid of honor and Joe had his best man (his brother) flying back to California, where Lou was planning to 1944, and Joseph Marriott, from their first marriage present again at St. Philip be “back to work” by the following week. Class of 1944, share a kiss to reprise their roles, about 60 years after the prior Yes, indeed, love is ever full of surprises. at their 65th Class Reunion ilestones M &M emories

Celebrating 65 years Celebrating 30 years Celebrating 50 years of ss ss of ss of a a a Cl Cl 1944 1979Cl 1958 Have STP Alumni News to Share? Call 269.963.4771 or email [email protected] page 3 Battle Creek Area Catholic Schools Fr. Bob Creagan named BCACS Pictured left to Pastor Administrator right: The Most by Elizabeth Willis, Courtesy of the Battle Creek Enquirer Reverend Paul J. he Rev. Robert Crea- priestly presence at the Bradley, Bishop, Tgan, the recently ap- school as well as pas- STP Principal, Kathy pointed pastor of St. Jo- tor of St. Joseph Catholic Grosso, and BCACS seph Catholic Church, has Church. Pastor been chosen to serve as “It just made sense to Administrator, Fr. pastor administrator of the accept the appointment,” Bob Creagan Battle Creek Area Catho- Creagan said. lic Schools. Fleckenstein became Bishop Paul Bradley, pastor of St. Catherine of the new head of the Dio- Siena Catholic Church in cese of Kalamazoo, made Portage on Aug. 24. The Bridge between Reunions and Homecoming the announcement to stu- He said he has known by Kathy Grosso, St. Philip High School Principal dents at school Mass on Creagan since before they ne of my favor- by our alumni. provide substance and Friday. were ordained and knows Oite things to do With each story foundation and a sense Creagan, 48, who he is passionate about as principal is to give told by these alumni, of pride for today’s stu- grew up in Decatur, said Catholic school education. tours of St. Philip to my understanding of dents. he feels as if he is com- “He’s a big sup- groups of alumni. This the spirit of St. Philip Following the ing back home to Battle porter of Catholic schools is a ‘walk down mem- deepens and I value the Homecoming Alumni Creek. It was here that and Catholic education,” ory lane’ and a great important link between Reunion, our current he attended seminary and Fleckenstein said. way for me to learn the past and the pres- students gathered in the was ordained in 1998. His In a previous role as the stories of the past. ent. The connection gym for their Home- first appointment was at pastor of St. Charles Bor- Usually, there is not is more cerebral than coming Dance. As our St. Philip Catholic Church. romeo in Coldwater, Crea- much discussion about concrete; more about future alums from the “Battle Creek became gan said he helped reopen the rigorous academic relationships than pro- classes of 2010-2013 my second home,” he said. a Catholic elementary standards, curriculum grams and more about arrived, their paths Bradley’s decision to school in 1993 that had alignment and state memories made in this crossed with alumni appoint Creagan head of shuttered in 1969. benchmarks. Memo- building than the physi- from many decades. I the private school system “In the midst of regu- ries are usually about cal building itself. was overwhelmed by was made on the recom- lar education we can share the personalities of the I really felt the the sense of nostal- mendation of Creagan’s our faith and devote Cath- teachers, the antics of a ‘sense’ of St. Philip gia, tradition and new fellow Battle Creek-area olic values, and having particular group of stu- during the recent Alum- memories created by priests, Father Chuck that daily with the young dents and the relation- ni Reunion held on sharing Homecoming Fischer of St. Philip Cath- people,” he said. “I have ships that grew while Homecoming weekend. 2009 with those that olic Church and Father found already how recep- at St. Philip. There is With about 150 people had ‘danced’ in this John Tran of St. Jerome tive the young students are overwhelming fond- gathered in the gym, I gym many years before Catholic Church, said at all grade levels ... about ness for St. Philip and strongly felt the bond, us. Vicki Cessna, director of their faith and learning.” the lasting bond shared commitment, and dedi- C o m p r e h e n d - communications for the cation of these alumni ing the dedication of Diocese of Kalamazoo. to St. Philip. My hope so many alumni who Creagan said he will is that all alumni appre- share a sense of pride continue what Rev. John ciate the influence and and commitment en- Fleckenstein had done impact that they have courages our students before him: He will be a on our current school and faculty to continue 2009 STP Homecoming Court and students. It is im- to honor your traditions Back Row: Max Dechant, Chris portant to understand and create new memo- Riley, Todd Lassen, Aaron that all of today’s ef- ries that will continue Smith, Matt Lake forts are built upon a the St. Philip story. We Front Row: Allie Coggins, Emily foundation that was es- are grateful for our rich Cracolici, Senecca McKinzie, tablished by our alum- history and confident in Riley Buschke, Colette Curtis ni. Their experiences our promising future.

Have STP Alumni News to Share? Call 269.963.4771 or email [email protected] page 4 Tracking Today’s Tigers STP Football Welcomes Another Hume at the Helm by Nick Buckley, Class of 2003, Courtesy of the Battle Creek Enquirer There will be a Hume as the seasons St. Philip had experi- H u m e also understands the challenges head coach of the St. Philip var- enced since the days when Mike coached in of coaching at a small school,” sity football team again. Hume led the Tigers. Hume led the St. Philip St. Philip athletic director Vicky St. Philip announced it is St. Philip to an undefeated re- system last Groat said. “We are excited and naming John Hume as its new cord and a state championship season as looking forward to the 2009 football coach. Hume, 44, is the in 1985. the middle football season.” son of longtime St. Philip foot- After his death in 1997, a school foot- Prior to last year’s unde- ball coach and athletic director street leading to the St. Philip John Hume, Class ball coach. feated regular season, St. Philip Mike Hume, who was at the football practice field was named of 1984, STP Head He has pre- went 2-16 the two years before school for nearly 30 years until in his honor - Mike Hume Way. Football Coach vious varsity that. the early 1990s. “By watching and playing football ex- Hume is currently schedul- John Hume, a 1984 gradu- for my dad, I’ve seen it done the perience as a ing meetings with prospective ate of St. Philip, who played way it is supposed to be done. member of the staff at Centrev- football players and hopes to football under his dad, is excited I have a wonderful respect for ille for six seasons. grow numbers and bring more about the opportunity to lead the how he got things done and he “John brings a lot of pas- consistency to the program. program. has always been my idol and my sion, pride and tradition to the “This program needs to be- “As a graduate and after all best friend when he was alive,” program. John understands the come a program. You can’t have the years my dad was with the Hume said. St. Philip football tradition and just one season, you have to school, it’s an honor to be a build over a number of years,” part of the program and Hume said. to help continue the resur- “Last year was abso- gence it has seen in recent lutely wonderful, but you years,” Hume said. have to build on that mo- St. Philip enjoyed an mentum. We want last year undefeated regular season to be the expectation, not last year and top 10 state just something that hap- ranking under then-coach pened.” Jay Carrigan. Carrigan stepped down after the sea- 2009 STP Football Team son to become coach at with St. Philip Pastor, Fr. Delton Kellogg. Chuck Fisher, The Most It was one of the best Reverend Paul J. Bradley, Bishop, and St. Joseph Pastor, Fr. Bob Creagan Leading a Life of Service he vibrant Campus Ministry Program holy day worship, weekly prayer services, the sophomores on poverty, the juniors on Tat St. Philip High School takes students freshman mentoring program, outreach to community response and investigation of beyond the Theology classroom and into the BCACS eighth grade students, and the peer community human service organizations, practical life of Christian service. listening program. and the seniors on homelessness. Each class Students, together with their families engages in the exploration, involvement, re- and the STP staff, share their gifts and “Through flection, and action related to their specific minister to the community through a va- Campus Ministry at St. Philip human conditions. riety of outlets. These acts of service Catholic Central High School, Christ has come alive Through this great program, stu- build their Catholic identity, sense of in not only Theology class, but in every aspect of the school dents experience meaningful volunteer- community, and depth of compassion. day and in our hearts.” ism within many greater Battle Creek One aspect of this comprehensive —Allison Kincaid, Class of 2009— community organizations. These orga- program is the development of the L.E.A.D. nizations include the Food Bank of South (Leaders Engaged in Active Discipleship) Central , Empty Bowls, St. Philip team. Composed of qualifying juniors and Campus Ministry also provides each Sunday Suppers, Charitable Union, Haven seniors, this group plans and facilitates grade level with a community service con- of Rest, Life Recovery Program and Ameri- grade-level retreats, weekly masses, special centration. The freshmen focus on hunger, can Red Cross.

Have STP Alumni News to Share? Call 269.963.4771 or email [email protected] page 5 Spirit of Community Objectives Our $500,000.00 √ Build a new St. Philip Rectory Challenge... √ Renovate the Seton Center “This Challenge Pledge is a tribute to Father John’s pastoral and school leadership and his overall commitment √ Demolish nearby vacant buildings to our community, We are appreciative for all that he has

√ New locker rooms, referee office and done to advance our schools and espe- concession stand at Walsh Field cially this project. We invite the com- munity’s support of our In the Spirit of √ Build new middle school at the St. Community Capital Campaign.” Joseph Campus Kathy Gallagher, BCACS Foundation, Development Director on the anonymous donation challenge √ Expand and renovate St. Joseph offered in honor ofF ormer Pastor of St. Joseph Parish, School cafeteria Reverend John D. Fleckenstein

√ Renovate Tiger Den Gymnasium What the Challenge will mean for STP’s Future including new bleachers, lighting We will get results! social hall dates back to the space will complement the and sound system Meeting this Challenge 1960’s. The bright, new par- grotto, providing a gorgeous Pledge will allow the con- ish center will house a com- opening to the new parish struction of a new parish mercial kitchen with ample center. Raise $500,000.00 by Dec. 1st to center and school cafeteria to storage space for a very ac- There will be several begin as soon as the weather tive parish and school com- upgrades to our high school receive the $500,000.00 Challenge permits. Once completed, munity. building including a new Grant this nearly 9,700 square foot Our ultimate plans are main entrance, a full con- facility can accommodate up to close Cherry Street and ference room, new locker to 200 people. develop a cohesive St. Philip rooms, and extensive main Construct a parish center and school The parish center will campus. floor renovations. The gen- cafeteria at St. Philip replace our old “Social These plans include co- erosity of our contributors Hall,” a parish structure that ordinating design work for determines the time line of is 100 years old and retro- landscaping, greenscaping, with these projects, which is Relocate Our Lady of Lourdes fitted to serve as the school lighting and expanded park- why this Challenge Pledge is Grotto cafeteria. Presently, the meal ing lots. truly a blessing! preparation equipment in the Thanks to the Class of There are 2,500 liv- 1951’s generosity, ing alumni. If each alumnus New high school administrative we will also re- were to contribute $200.00, build the Our Lady we would accomplish our offices of Lourdes Grotto goal. For some, this is a north of St. Philip sacrificial gift; for others, a Relocate main high school entrance Church. Gardens, more generous gift may be patios, and ample possible. Your gift, whatever outdoor gathering the amount counts! Renovate classrooms and the main floor of the high school Meeting the Challenge Pledge would enable STP to go forward with projects like classrooms redesigns Upgrade high school infrastructure and renovations.

Have STP Alumni News to Share? Call 269.963.4771 or email [email protected] page 6 In Honor of Those who have gone before us… Challenge Pledge Questions What if we fall short of the $500,000 goal? I am grateful to the St. Philip Community for all the love We must raise the full amount to be eligible for the challenge and support during the abrupt sickness and eventual death of gift. my mom, Betty Behnke. It was so reassuring to have the presence of Fr. Chuck with our family as he anointed my Do we need to collect all dollars before Dec. 1st 2009? mother with the Holy Oils. We gathered around her bed and Yes. Contributions must be received at the BCACS Founda- prayed the Memorare, a prayer that recalled decades of foot- tion by Tuesday, December 1, 2009. ball games and other St. Philip events. But it was the after- Can I contribute stock gifts? math of Betty’s death and the prayers at both the Sunday and Absolutely, an account is set up at Hilliard Lyons to receive daily Masses that brought my torn soul peace. gifts of stock. Please call Kathy Gallagher at 269.963.4771 My father, Mac Behnke, thought a fitting memorial to for more details. his wife of 54 years would be the St. Phil building fund. What a wonderful opportunity the Challenge Pledge is for How can I participate in reaching the challenge goal if the St. Philip Alumni community around the world. If we I am already contributing toward my original pledge? can raise a half million dollars by December 1, 2009, it will Please consider suspending your original pledge payment be matched with another half million AND we will have the and donating to this very important challenge during October amount needed to break ground on a community center. and November. Contributions toward your original pledge As we remember those who have died for All Souls can be resumed in December. Day, I take out all the holy cards and place them by the candles I have lit over the years. This is my 40 day ritual as What about Matching Gift Companies? the Liturgical year draws to a close. This year it will also be Matching gifts count toward the challenge pledge. To find out 40 days of fund raising. Please know that your loved ones if your company offers a matching grant employee benefit will be in my prayers along with my mom. Please consider please check with your Human Resources Department. a donation to the In the Spirit of Community Campaign in Who should participate in the Challenge Pledge? the next 40 days. Every parishioner, alumni, staff, parent and youth should take --Suzanna (Behnke) Carney, Class of 1975 advantage of this opportunity to double our contributions!

This is an “all or nothing” proposition In Hope for Those who come after us… “For the greater honor and glory of God, this plaque is We must raise $500,000 in new gifts for our In dedicated with sincere gratitude to these loyal living and de- the Spirit of Community Capital Campaign by ceased members and all friends of our parish, through whose sacrifice and generosity the building of the school addition December 1, 2009. and the new convent were made possible.” The above statement is on the plaque by the lower Achieving this challenge will allow us to begin Cherry Street doors along with all the names of the people the project at St. Philip School immediately. who helped make the 1956 addition to the original 1924 high school a reality. It is a testament of what can be done when we all work together. If you haven’t taken advantage of the We have been given an opportunity to finish our fund- opportunity to support your alma mater, raising efforts and to proceed with the projects at St. Philip. A donor(s) has challenged us to raise $500,000.00 and they now is the time! will match that amount. Many alumni have given generously to the capital cam- If you have already supported the paign and we are asking once again for all the alumni to step up and make this a reality. We can do this. We must do this. In the Spirit of Community Capital Campaign This is our chance to enhance the learning environment please consider an additional gift. for the present and future students of St. Philip Catholic Cen- tral High School. Generations before us have given us the Remember, your dollars are doubled. opportunity to be a part of St. Philip, let’s all help future gen- erations to have the same experiences that we did. Please send your donation by December 1, 2009 and Your gift, whatever the amount, counts! help us reach our challenge goal. --Mary (Hunt) Rabbitt, Class of 1974

Have STP Alumni News to Share? Call 269.963.4771 or email [email protected] page 7 Congratulations to our 2009 Distinguished Alumni Maureen “Renie” (McCauley) Pelter, Class of 1944 Pictured left to enie’s depth of faith is an inspi- right: Joseph Rration, bringing both family and Zuk, Class of friends to the Catholic Church. Celebrat- 1965, Maureen ing a private mass with Pope John Paul (McCauley), is a personal milestone in Renie’s life. Class of 1944, Renie’s contributions to her parish church are many and varied. For over June (Klimmer) forty-five years, Renie has been the or- Crocker, Class ganist, pro bono, for her parish and plays of 1952, all weekend masses, funerals, and wed- and Patrice dings. She has been the Altar Society Emmerson, president for fourteen years, served on Class of 1973 her parish school’s advisory board, at- tends daily mass, transports elderly pa- rishioners to Mass, and worked for the gram and Scheduling. She retired in 1999. tinued his education and graduated from West- Right to Life initiative. June was nominated by Nancy M. Brown, ern Michigan University in 1970 with a degree She was the first person to deliver Class of 1954, who expressed, “June’s life in English and Secondary Education. Meals on Wheels in her community and is greatly influenced by her strong faith and Joe began his teaching career at St. Philip continued this mission for eight years ev- Catholic school values. Her dedication and High School as the English instructor. During ery Sunday after Mass. She continues to compassion for the sick demonstrates what the his tenure, he wore many hats in addition to volunteer whenever her help is needed. spirit of St. Philip is about.” the teaching of the English curriculum. He She has served on the Heringtion Library “Bear ye one another’s burden,” Gala- served as Vice-Principal, Assistant Volleyball Board for four years and was responsible tions 6:2, describes June’s devotion and her Coach, Bus Driver, Dean of Discipline, Senior for reviewing books under consideration commitment to share friends’ troubles, allow- Class Advisor, and Quiz Bowl Advisor. He by the library. She also served on the ing personal burdens to become lighter and also served on the Discipline Review Board, Herington Historical Museum Board for hope to become stronger. the Curriculum Committee, and various other six years. June practices The Corporal Work of Mer- committees. For recreation, Renie plays bridge, cy of caring for the sick. She has accompanied Mr. Zuk impacted the lives of over 3,000 reads, and travels. She really enjoys re- several of her friends to their cancer treatments students at St. Philip Catholic Central High turning to Battle Creek for the Alumni and was always there when they needed her School, at times influencing their career paths. Reunion and reuniting with her family assistance. She frequently transported their Joe was nominated by fellow classmate, and good friends. family members so they could visit with their Mary Cummings, Class of 1965, who stated, Renie was nominated by Lena loved ones. When a friend asked what she “I nominate Joe for the outstanding teacher (Maddalena) Wood, Class of 1944, could do to repay June, June’s response was, and leader he has become. He has taught four who shared, “She is steadfast in loving “You don’t repay me; you do something kind of my children. He honored the trust I placed and defending her Catholic faith. This is for someone else.” in him for the care and education of my chil- the true spirit of St. Philip and a tribute June has been a Eucharistic Minister at St. dren with humor, respect, and a blessed love to the priests and sisters who devoted Philip Church for thirty years. She assists with of learning of English, reading, and creativity. their lives to our alma mater.” parish and funeral lunches, and serves as a Ste- He is generous of heart and time. What more Renie is the widow of Joe Pelter phen’s Minister. She was on the Parish Coun- can a Christ-like man do for others?” and has six children: Joe, David, Linda, cil at St. Joseph Church and taught CCD for Joe and his wife, Carol, live in Battle Deborah, Chris, Tim, and Scott. many years. June is a twenty-five year member Creek and are members of St. Philip Parish. of Sweet Adeline’s. They have three children: Stephanie of An- June (Klimmer) Crocker, June has five children: Gail, Karen, Bob, chorage, Alaska, Sara of Portage and Andrew, Class of 1952 Cathy, and David, all of whom attended St. who lives in Los Angeles. They also have two une has always been very supportive Philip School. She has eleven grandchildren grandchildren. Jof the STP alumni association and has and four great grandchildren. After 39 years of dedication to St. Philip been responsible for organizing many re- High School and students, Joe retired at the unions for her class. Joseph Zuk, end of the 2008-2009 school year. Joe is enjoy- June earned her LPN degree at Class of 1965 ing his retirement with activities such as cook- Kellogg Community College in Battle oe attended St. Joseph Elementary School ing, playing with his grandchildren, enjoying Creek. She worked at Hospice and was Jthrough eighth grade and then went on to the outdoors, and of course, reading in charge of the Volunteer Training Pro- graduate from St. Philip High School. He con-

Have STP Alumni News to Share? Call 269.963.4771 or email [email protected] page 8 Patrice “Patti” (Schoder) Emmerson, oder) Collins, Class of 1981, who stated, raisers. Upon relocating, they continue their Class of 1973 “Patti’s academic, professional, and spiri- support for St. Philip School, as well as, the atti graduated from St. Philip High tual achievements are an excellent example Catholic Schools in the Grand Rapids. PSchool and went on to study writing at of how St. Philip prepares students to make Recently, Patti has become involved the University of Michigan. While there, a positive impact in their families, parish, in mission work in Haiti. Her efforts there she received the University’s Distinguished community, workplace and the world. I include securing resources from the United Hopwood Writing Award for a play she think she is an excellent example of the great States. She also assists with immigrants wrote. Patti served as a lay missionary with contributions that St. Philip alumni make.” from African countries, helping them find the Jesuit Volunteer group after her gradua- While living in the area, Patti and her housing, work, health care, and familiarizing tion from the university. husband, Pete, were actively involved with them with American culture. She cares for Patti works for Perry Ballard, Inc., a the Diocese of Kalamazoo’s Office of Mar- their children and provides activities to ease communications firm in St. Joseph, Michi- riage and Family, which included helping at their transition to schools. gan, where she is a Senior Writer. She has engaged couples’ weekends and promoting Patti and Pete have three children, Mol- won numerous local, regional, state, district, Natural Family Planning. They were also ly, Tim, and Maricolleen. Patti also foster- national, and international writing awards actively involved in supporting Catholic parented a young mother until she was able while at PBI. Schools and donated numerous volunteer to become self-sufficient. Patti was nominated by Mary (Sch- hours to various parish activities and fund- 2009 St. Philip Athletic Hall of Fame Inductees Jerry Reece, eral automotive manufacturing Dick and his wife, the late and bowled in the Knights of Class of 1958 companies, including General Josie Bauman, raised six chil- Columbus League. erry is described by his fel- Motors in Kalamazoo. He also dren, Margaret, Virginia, Fred, Dick retired from Michi- Jlow alumni as “always in his launched his own business, To- Steve, Mary Jo and Teri. They gan Bell in mid 1980’s. He also element with sports, whether tal Cleaning Solutions. He and were committed to helping the worked for a short time at Eaton that’s as a player, in the broad- his wife, Sandy are now retired. St. Philip athletic programs for Corporation. He used his skills cast booth, or when helping kids decades. Dick ran the conces- as a telephone lineman to install get their start.” Richard “Dick” Smith, sion stand for fifteen years, the first phones at C.W. Post Jerry won three varsity let- Long Time STP Athletic Booster supporting his kids’ endeavors Field to allow coaches to com- ters in both football and basket- ick will not be a stranger along the way. He also volun- municate during football games. ball. Jerry started on the 1955 Don the Hall of Fame ledger. teered after athletic events to state championship football His son, Fred Smith, Class of ensure that the equipment and Steve Smith, team, a sophomore defensive 1973, and daughter, Mary Jo facilities were taken care of Class of 1975 end. He was an All-City football (Smith) Jager, Class of 1977, well. teve is considered one of the and basketball player his senior were inducted in 2000 and Dick played baseball while Sbest athletes ever to play in year. 1995, respectively. Nor is Dick in the United States Army, help- the STP football trenches. He His children, Kim, Mark, the only Smith being inducted ing to introduce the sport in Ja- started 27 straight games at cen- Mike and Kelly, all earned let- this year. His son, Steve Smith, pan in 1947. He played on the ter and middle linebacker. Steve ters playing for St. Philip. He Class of 1975, is also a 2009 Oliver’s Stan Musial team, the lettered three times in football has two grandchildren who at- Hall of Fame recipient. Reichert Steel basketball team and twice in basketball and tend St. Philip and participate baseball. He was an Associ- in athletics. ated Press All-State center in Jerry is also well-known 1974 when St. Philip posted for his sportscaster and com- a 9-0 record and claimed a mentator career for WELL mythical state championship. radio, where he broadcast Steve went on to play area athletic events and a Sat- football for four years and urday coach’s talk show. He graduated from Northwood also cofounded the Southern University. He currently re- , sides in New Port Richey, expanding his broadcasts Florida and is employed by even further. Rodeway Trucking. He has Jerry worked in Michi- two children, Richard and Re- gan and California with sev- nee.

Pictured Left to Roght: STP Principal, Kathy Grosso, Steve Smith (Class of 1975), Richard Smith, Jerry Reece (Class of 1958), STP Athletic Director, Vicky Groat

Have STP Alumni News to Share? Call 269.963.4771 or email [email protected] page 9 The Mystique of Rome... Submitted by Paul Newman, Class of 2009

y name is Paul Newman; I just Rome and I had some things I needed spirituality and faithfulness. I can’t ex- Mrecently graduated from St. Phil- to talk about. I went on a walk with plain to you what it was like to climb, ip Catholic Central High School, and Father to try and clear my head and on my knees, the same steps the Lord had the great privilege of attending our rid my self of things that were bother- Jesus walked Himself. The pain of class pilgrimage to Rome. I was asked ing me. If you can imagine sitting at each step forces you to feel Christ’s to share with you my wonderful expe- the edge of a large water fountain in suffering and makes you pray thank- rience there. I am very thrilled to take the middle of the Vatican square when ing Jesus for dying for us. I now truly you through a brief journey of one of you’re in a time of questioning, it is understand why I believe in God and the holiest places on earth. very easy to place yourself in a reli- why I need to serve Him. It’s hard to explain the mystique gious state of mind. I won’t share what How was my experience in Rome? of Rome. When we arrived it was Father and I discussed, but I can tell What was it like to stand before the nothing like I expected. The biggest you that his advice changed my life. I tomb of Pope John Paul II? I can’t car in Rome was the size of a Volkswa- would have never been able to talk to explain what I felt, but I can tell you gen Beetle, there was so much traffic I’ll go back someday, someday when I and so many people, that at first I was need to find what God is calling for me slightly overwhelmed. We arrived to do next. I didn’t write this arti- at the hotel in the morning but I hope people under- cle to make Farther John sound hadn’t slept much because of stand that if you take a trip to like a prophet, I don’t want the time change. I counted Rome, pay attention, listen, and pray, people to think because of 22 hours for myself with no my experience in Rome I am sleep. Something you have because you may experience something going to run off to the semi- to realize when Father John you’ve never felt before, you just nary and become a priest. I is leading you on a pilgrimage might find God there. hope people understand that if to Rome, you are going to see ev- you take a trip to Rome, pay at- erything, even if it means you have to tention, listen, and pray, because you go a couple days without sleeping. We may experience something you’ve wandered around the Vatican square, him without that environment, but never felt before, you just might find saw the Pope deliver a brief message as they say “When in Rome.” God there. To explain the mystique of to a large audience, and then took a I talked a lot with Ryan Anthony, Rome I will use a quote the legend- visit to St. Peter’s Basilica. The first who is close to my age. We discussed ary Coach Lou Holtz once said about day was overwhelming. I don’t think I things such as God’s call for us indi- the University of Notre Dame. “If you fully understood the experience I was vidually in life and where we see our- were there, no explanation is neces- about to have. selves 10 years from now. He helped sary. If you weren’t, no explanation is My experience in Rome may have me to understand the challenges that satisfactory.” been different from that of most my lie ahead in college and the tempta- classmates. I spent much of my free tions I, along with all my classmates time with Ryan Anthony and Father will face. We spoke for hours on what John. I feel I can call both of those it means to be a man and the honor in men great friends of mine. For those of serving God in everything we do. To you who don’t know me I am quite re- say Rome changed my life would be ligious and often think about what God an understatement. is calling me to do in life. I knew by I could have written an article spending time with a seminarian like explaining all the wonderful sites and Ryan and a Priest such as Father John, activities in Rome, but that wouldn’t that God’s call for me would become do any justice. The fact is if you are clearer. I have to share with you what interested in advancing, or even dis- was to this point, the most amazing covering your faith, a journey to Rome night of my life. I had been having a would do you justice. It is a place out rough week, the week before going to of the ordinary. It is an environment of

Have STP Alumni News to Share? Call 269.963.4771 or email [email protected] page 10 Alum Column Catholic Education: Worth the Sacrifice Submitted by Patrice (Schoder) Emmerson, Class of 1973

education are worth more than a lot done with very little. These is worth the sacrifice. I challenge personal gains. Just look at the vibrant people are graduates you to make that sacrifice. I leaders in the Battle Creek area. of Battle Creek’s St. Philip, St. challenge you to encourage pa- Look in our government, public Joseph and St. Jerome Schools. rishioners, your neighbors, your and faith-based schools, judicial That is where they learned what friends and coworkers, your My parents, Helen and system, medical fields, business- it means to be a family and how brothers and sisters, your chil- Wendell Schoder, and my broth- es, law enforce- to be a team dren and grandchildren, to make ers and sisters made sacrifices ment, trades, “The player. It that sacrifice. Moreover, I ask so all six of us kids could go to m i l i t a r y , blessings of a Catholic is where you to make those sacrifices so Catholic schools. My husband, p a r i s h e s , education are worth more than t e a c h e r s that the hundreds of children and Peter, and my children gave up n e i g h b o r- and ad- teens in this community—who life experiences, the opportu- hoods. You personal gain.” ministrators, need to have a “family”, teachers nity to own finer things, and the will see people who believed in that challenge them, friends that chance to live in a nicer home, who are not afraid to sac- them, held them and their last a lifetime—will have those for a Catholic education. rifice, willingly give their all to parents accountable. It is where doors opened to them. What we gained was worth their jobs, respond to the needs they learned to trust God. Our community, our state far more than what we gave up. of their neighbors, care for the Our Catholic schools are not economy, our country needs The blessings of a Catholic poor, push to bring about good perfect, but the value they offer what Battle Creek Area Catholic changes, and know how to get our children and our community Schools make possible. Want to share how your STP experience influenced your life? Email your remarks to [email protected]. Please put “Alum Column” in the message line and attach a recent photo.

In Memoriam The following members of the STP family have passed from this life to the next. Please remember them in your thoughts and prayers. We extend our sincere condolences to their loved ones. John Jarmul, Class of 1929 Margaret (Sweet) Gaskell 1948 Francis Karas, Class of 1939 James G. Beeson, Class of 1949 Anna (Jereck) Sartor, Class of 1940 Lawrence Lucas, Class of 1954 Colonel Benjamin Flagg, Class of 1942 Mary Alice “Betty” (Murray) Behnke, Class of 1954 Berniece (Karas) Griffin, Class of 1944 James B. Sweet, Class of 1955 Robert Kazar, Class of 1945 Sara (McGuire) Korsak, Class of 1961 James Griffin, Class of 1947 David Abbey, Class of 1974

In Thanksgiving St. Philip Catholic Central High School and the BCACS Foundation extend their deep appreciation for recent gifts received in memory or honor of these STP Alumni. Gifts Given in Memory of: Carrie Adams, Class of 1991 Francis Karas, Class of 1939 Dan Simon, Class of 2000 Anna (Jereck) Sartor, Class of 1940 Gifts Given in Honor of: Santo Zanetti, Class of 1942 Mary Lou (Atha) and Joseph Marriott, Class of 1944 Berniece (Karas) Griffin, Class of 1944 Barbara (Howard) and James Gilbert, Class of 1964 W. Fred Mangan, Class of 1944 Joe Zuk, Class of 1965 Margaret (Sweet) Gaskell 1948 St. Philip Class of 1958 James G. Beeson, Class of 1949 St. Philip Class of 1959 Norman “Bud” Lawrence, Class of 1951 St. Philip Class of 1964 Mary Alice “Betty” (Murray) Behnke, Class of 1954 St. Philip Class of 1975 James B. Sweet, Class of 1955 St. Philip Class of 1979 Sara (McGuire) Korsak, Class of 1961 St. Philip Class of 1989

Have STP Alumni News to Share? Call 269.963.4771 or email [email protected] page 11 Alumni News...Keeping in Touch New degree? New job? New city? Recently married? Started a family? Welcomed your first grandchild? We want to hear your news and share it with fellow alums across the country. Please complete this form and return it to the Development Office at 63 North 24th Street, Battle Creek, MI 49015; or e-mail [email protected]. Thanks! We look forward to hearing from you! Name: (include maiden name if applicable) Class: Address: City: State: Zip: Phone: E-mail: Spouse: Children: Post High School Education/Activities: Employment: News about you:

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