Lane Tech TODAY Newsletter of the Lane Tech Alumni Association

September 2014 • Vol. 33 • No. 3 Wherever You Go, Whatever You Do, Remember the Honor of Lane.

Background Music by Michelle Weiner ‘76

n 1908 when Lane Tech opened its doors to students, Nordine was speaking it. I“Shine on Harvest Moon” was the popular tune of the day. Zindars was considered a Of course there are no alumni around to substantiate this, but pioneer in jazz composition there has always been a strong association between music and wrote for many jazz and one’s high school experiences. At Lane, music not only artists including Cannonball marks the passage of time, but also provides a means for Adderly and most famously student musicians to make their mark. For example in 1914 for Bill Evans with hits like when “Saint Louis Blues” by W. C. Handy was written, another “How My Heart Sings”, popular song had just been penned by a Lane Tech senior: “Mother of Earl” and “Elsa”. “Go Lane Go” by Jack T. Nelson, Class of 1915! Three years after the Fast forward to 1929 when Paul Whiteman’s Orchestra release of “How My Heart had a hit with “Makin’ Whoopee, and the advanced music Sings”, a group called the curriculum we are now familiar with at Lane was born. When Buckinghams exploded on the post-war climate created a scarcity of classically trained the music scene. They had musicians from Europe, Director/Conductor Frederic Stock of a string of hits in 1967 including “Kind of a Drag” and “Mercy, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra reached out to Lane Tech Mercy, Mercy”. Through the latter part of the sixties they Principal Bogan. A feeder program was created resulting in a performed at concerts and on television. Founding member steady stream of Lane musicians establishing careers with the and guitarist, Carl Giammarese, (’66) credits his Lane Tech elite CSO including Herman Clebanoff (’35), Franz Benteler music teacher as an important influence. The band dissolved (’43) and Edgar Muenzer (’45). One year later, Francesco in 1970 but reformed in 1980 performing at two inaugural balls LoVecchio, (’30) would graduate and begin a seventy-five as well as the Happy Together Tour with other sixties groups. year career as singer and entertainer with hits like “That’s Giammarese and fellow band member Nick Fortuna still tour My Desire”, “Mule Train”, “Black and Blue” and “Rawhide” today. under the name Frankie The seventies produced two vocal performers who would Laine, (said to be inspired go on to have robust careers in theater, television and film. by his alma mater). Later John Herrera’s, (’74) theater credits include national touring generations would hear companies for Evita and Les Miserables and the Goodman him singing the theme Theatre’s production of Sunday in the Park with George. song of the film “Blazing He has been nominated for both Tony and Jefferson awards Saddles” in 1974. in New York and Chicago respectively. Adrian Zmed, (’72) While Laine was busy began his career on Broadway in the musical Grease, and getting his career off the subsequently in the national touring company after which he ground, Ken Nordine, (’38) established a career in film and on television, most notably on would become famous the series T J Hooker. Both men continue to perform in the for voice over work, a theater. decades-long career with Today, Lane Tech is producing a new crop of artists across WBEZ and the creation of all musical genres. Young performers, who will have their Word Jazz. Nordine was perfecting and recording the spoken own high school soundtrack and like their predecessors, will word long before Poetry Slam was a twinkle in anyone’s eye. influence what we hear for generations to come. Earl Zindars, (’45) began composing jazz at the same time that President’s Message Stuart Eng ‘85

Alumni Association Newsletter ike many alumni, some of my most vivid memories of Lane are attached Vol. 33 • No. 3 Lto a musical score. One year my band rocked the Clash’s “Should I Stay September 2014 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 Editors school through a new sound engineering program. Students not only have access to Chicago’s Mary Beth Ficht best high school guitar program, but they also get to learn how to engineer their own music on Michelle Weiner ‘76 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. Contributing Editors Barbara Cook I recently attended the Class of ’84 reunion and not surprisingly, towards the end of the night the crowd Stuart Eng ‘85 broke out in a rousing chorus of “Go Lane Go”. Time passes on but some things stay the same. Joe Lawniczak ‘69 Best Regards Maurel Samonte ‘86 Stuart Eng (‘85)

Production Managers Jeff Juhasz ‘76 Board of Directors Lane Tech Alumni Association Steve Juhasz ‘75 2014/15 Meetings Schedule Board of Directors

Copy Editor Patrick Kasch October 23, 2014 President Stuart Eng ‘85 December 4, 2014 Vice President Production Team January 22, 2015 Brian Dolan ‘86 Michelle Weiner ‘76 March 26, 2015 Treasurer May 28, 2015 Marion Synowiec ‘64 Past President Secretary Meetings take place at 7pm at Lane Tech Kim Kidd ‘73 in Room 113. Please call Alumni office to Board Members verify time & location. Diedre Baumann ‘85 Telephone: 773-935-9351 * December 4th meeting off campus. Fred Glure ‘63 Fax: 773-935-4570 Jim Guerin ‘72 Toll-Free: 877-935-ALUM (2586) Newsletter Deadlines Dennis Hammer ‘71 Past President Visit our website at Joseph Lawniczak ‘69 www.lanetechalumni.org Fall Issue October 15 Avrom Litin ‘83 Winter Issue January 15 Sharon Manjack ‘77 e-mail: Spring Issue April 15 Tod McElhaney ‘83 [email protected] Summer Issue July 15 Angela Olah ‘04 Visit Lane Tech’s website at Mail to: Jill Rzadzki ‘91 www.lanetech.org Mary Beth Ficht, Newsletter Editor Maurel Samonte ‘86 Lane Tech Alumni Association Alumni Staff 2501 W. Addison St. Barbara Cook - Executive Director Published quarterly for the Room 114A alumni of Lane Tech College Mary Beth Ficht - Program Director Prep High School, Chicago Chicago, IL 60618-5991 Illinois. We reserve the right to [email protected] edit submissions for publication due to space limitations. Send news and photographs (not Table of Contents returnable) to: Newsletter Editor President’s Message...... 2 Inside 2501...... 7 Lane Tech Alumni Association Reunions...... 3 Alumni News...... 8-9 2501 West Addison Street Scholarships...... 4 The Drum Beat...... 10 Room 114A Chicago, IL 60618-5991 Walking Down Memory Lane...... 5 In Memoriam...... 11 Alumni Spotlight...... 6 Backwards Glance...... 12 Principal’s Message Christopher Dignam, Ed.D. ‘88

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)

Reunions

Lane Tech 1949ers +/- Information: Please RSVP to the Alumni Office for tour to be held Date & Time: Second Thursday of the month in March, June, on Friday at 10am. Dinner and music on Saturday at White Eagle September & December at 11:30am Banquets in Niles, IL. Location: Elk’s Club in Des Plaines, IL For Payment information, please contact Fletcher Birmingham, Vince Information: The group welcomes all Lane Tech graduates to attend Chapa or Jay Burell at [email protected] their quarterly luncheons. For more information, contact the LTAA office The Class of 1975 Date & Time: October 16, 2015 10:00am-12:00pm & October 17, 2015 Class of 1954 6:30-11:30pm Date & Time: September 26 at 10am & September 27 at 6:00pm Location: Lane Tech and TBD Place: Lane Tech & Des Plaines Elks Club, 495 Lee St., Des Plaines, Cost: TBD IL. Information: Save the Date! The Class of 1975 will hold its 40th reunion Cost: $38.00 (for dinner only) with a school tour on 10/16/2015 and a Saturday evening dinner on Information: Tour Lane Tech from 10am-12pm on Friday, 9/26. The 10/17/15. A small committee has been formed and volunteers are celebration will continue on 9/27 with dinner & music at the Elks Club. needed. Please go to our website at www.lanetech75.com to get the To RSVP, please contact reunion chairman, Jack Richardson at (847) latest info or email [email protected] 884-0869 Class of 1979 Class of 1964 Date & Time: October 24 & 25 at 7:00pm. Date & Time: October 17, 9:00am-12:00pm & 6:30-11:30pm Location: Mullen’s Bar & Grill, 8313 W. Lawrence, Norridge, IL Location: Lane Tech & White Eagle Banquets & Restaurant, Niles, IL Information: Pete Sremac is organizing this 35th reunion. It will be a Cost: $60.00 per person for dinner casual evening with cash bar and appetizers and food available for Information: This 50th Class reunion will include a school tour during purchase. There will also be a little ‘warm-up’ to the reunion held on the day and a dinner banquet at the White Eagle in the evening. Friday, 10/24 at same location. For more information, classmates can For more information, please contact reunion committee members, contact Pete Sremac at [email protected] John Wotring III:[email protected] Rich Davis: [email protected] Class of 1995 Marion Synowiec: [email protected] Date & Time: 2015 Location: TBD The Class of 1974 Cost: TBD Date & Time: October 10-11 Information: Jesus Mata and Frank Guerra are launching reunion Location: Lane Tech and White Eagle Banquets efforts. To assist in the planning or for more information, please Cost: $45.00 for dinner contact him at [email protected]

September 2014 • 3 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 recipient Contributors: $6,000 from Rich Kolb (’65), $1600 from Peter Matic (’74) and the balance from various alumni donors

Ashley Padilla Nina Sedeno Shania Sukhu Kornelia Skowron Jakub Zurkowski College of Wooster Northwestern University Cornell University Roosevelt University De Pauw University

AVES Vocational Mary Jane Coogan Scholarship Education Scholarship - $80,000 for English Excellence - $7,000 LTAA Executive Director Barbara Cook secured this California Community Foundation The Coogan family established this scholarship in memory grant in 2005 and has since been successful in administering $764,000 in scholarship of Lane Tech English teach, Mary Jane Coogan. awards to Lane Tech students. This year each recipient will receive $10.000 for four years.

Jonathan Irizarry Alexander Pauer Angelica Soto University of Illinois – Chicago California Polytechnic State University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Gomez Scholarship - $3,000 Gerritson Music Scholarship - $3,000 Sasha Gerritson (’90) supports this award for students Ciro Gomez (’72) funds two $1500 scholarships to architecture students pursuing a music degree from Northeastern Illinois University.

Piotr Jelonek Aaron Guevarro Allen Park Illinois Institute of Technology University of Illinois – Chicago Northeastern Illinois University

Kabot Art Scholarship - $3,000 Kutzman Scholarship- $4,000 Leibfritz - $1,000 Mrs. Patricia Cherry established this scholarship Gerald Kutzman (’60) funds this award to in memory of her friend, Mr.Walter Leibfritz, This is a newly established scholarship by John students attending either of his alma maters; a former shop teacher at Lane Tech. The Kabot (’64) for a student pursuing an art degree. University of Tampa or University of Southern scholarship is awarded to a Lane Tech student Mississippi showing an interest in a technical field.

Andrea Guerrero Melanie Vasquez Max Zelenka University of Illinois - Chicago University of Tampa University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign 4 • Lane Tech Today Walking Down Memory Lane

Class of 1969 Reunion by Joe Lawniczak, ‘69 ur 45th reunion program held on May 30th kicked off in the Civics Room 113 with stories and laughter about Ohigh 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

he 30th reunion of the Class of 1984 took place July 26th through the 28th and Tincluded 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”. Alumni Spotlight Paul and Mark Carrera, ‘87

aul is currently in his twenty-first year as a music educator. He holds a bachelor’s degree in education from PNortheastern 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, ‘87 LTAA: What is the most memorable experience of your time teach- ing at Lane? LTAA: How did your experience at Lane as a student shape your PC: My favorite memories as a teacher are also centered around solo career? and ensemble contests. Watching students achieve success through PC: My career and attitudes about teaching were definitely influenced by high level music performance is always a great way to cap off a year of my experiences as a Lane student. As a music major, I remember taking teaching choir. It is exciting to see students’ progress throughout the year four music classes every year and being immersed in classical training. I as they work on art songs, arias, and small ensembles. I know that my participated in many practical and rewarding activities that helped develop students are creating memories that will last a lifetime. my music abilities including playing cello in the orchestra, piano solos, and participating in small string ensembles. LTAA: What kind of music do you listen to? PC: My favorite music is opera, especially Puccini’s “La Boheme”. LTAA: Did you have a favorite teacher while a student at Lane? PC: My favorite teachers were all music teachers including John Cina, Mark Carrera, ‘87 George Rico, and Eugene Mitofsky. They were all outstanding musicians, educators, and mentors. They were passionate about music education LTAA: How did your experience at Lane as a student shape your and had high expectations for their students. I often see their positive career? I attended Lane Tech and was enrolled in the Music Major curriculum influences in my own teaching as I interact with current students. MC: as a violinist. As a student I was able to participate in many musical LTAA: Are there some things about students and music that tran- experiences that really cultivated my musical interests. By the end of my scend time? senior year I knew that I wanted to teach music. 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: Did you have a favorite teacher while a student at Lane? MC: My favorite teacher was John Cina. Back then, we had four periods LTAA: No sibling rivalry? How is it that the two of you stay in such of music each day, sometimes 5 or 6 if you included the time we spent “harmony”? hanging out during lunch (or cutting other classes!). 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 LTAA: Are there some things about students and music that tran- with my twin brother in the choir department and it is definitely a high scend time? Good music transcends time. In the choral program we are still point in my teaching career. “Teaching Twins” in the same classroom give MC: singing songs and arrangements that I heard and performed back in our students an experience they will never forget. We often share silly 1987. These works of art connect people from all generations and allow stories about our childhood growing up as twins to lighten the learning performers of all ages the opportunity to share in a common experience. atmosphere. We have a shared vision for what we want to accomplish Only music can do that! as choir directors which helps us pull in the same direction. I think our students recognize and appreciate this unique learning opportunity. LTAA: No sibling rivalry? How is it that the two of you stay in such “harmony”? LTAA: What is the most memorable experience of your time as a MC: There is sibling rivalry, Paul achieved National Board Certification a student at Lane? year earlier than I…..he doesn’t let me forget that, but I was department PC: My favorite memories as a student are of my participation in annual chair for many years and was actually his boss. solo and ensemble contests. The highlight of my senior year was earning three Superior medals at the CPS competition. I remember playing LTAA: What is the most memorable experience of your time as a Samuel Barber’s “Adagio for Strings” with a small string ensemble. It student at Lane? is one of my favorite pieces to this very day, and brings back wonderful MC: The Semi-Annual Concerts are memorable highlights of my high memories of my experiences as a music student whenever I hear it. 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). Inside 2501

A snapshot of what’s happening at Lane today

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 Robert Harris (‘13) pictured second from right and Mr. Scott Vessalo far right. Dicaro. They were undefeated in the conference and won the Mather Christmas tournament. In May 2014, Lane Tech Physics teacher, Mr. Scott Vessalo and former student, Robert Harris III (’13) were honored Varsity girls softball won the City Championship. at the 4th Annual White House Science Fair hosted by President Obama. The annual event is focused on Boys Volleyball took first place in their conference. 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. Indians 2014 Seven seniors from the Class of 2014 were awarded Football Schedule National AP Scholar status by the College Board. The seniors achieved this status by earning an average score 8/29 Lane vs. Mather 7:15 of 4 or higher on at least eight AP exams. Congratulations (Lane Stadium) to Juan Angulo, Aedan Benna, Magda Bujnowska, Ivan 9/6 Lane vs. St. Pats 11:00 a.m. Gutierrez, Timmy Li, Khoa Tran and Adam TuoheyBoth (Hanson Stadium) the Boys and Girls Varsity Cross Country teams won City Championships. The Boys team also earned the State 9/12 Bogan vs. Lane 7:15 Regional Championship and became the first 3A Boys (Home Game) Team to qualify for State 3 years in a row. 9/19 Lane vs. Simeon* 7:15 (Gately Stadium) Lane was recently ranked 67 out of 500 in Newsweek’s 9/27 Lane vs. CVS* 7:15 “Beat the Odds-Top Schools for Low-Income Students” (Gately Stadium) Read more about it at http://www.newsweek.com/high- schools/beating-odds-2014 10/4 Dunbar* vs. Lane 7:15 (Home Game - Alumni Fellowship Game) Sports Highlights from 2014 10/11 Lane vs. Whitney Young• 7:15 (Rockne Stadium) The Girls Soccer team won the Conference Championship 10/18 Curie* vs. Lane 4:15 and also won the Sportsmanship award. Sofia Pavon (Home Game) was voted the number one player in city and received all- 10/25 Playoffs 7:15 city and all-state first team awards. Sofia is a third time recipient of these awards. Dates and times subject to change. Please visit lanetech. org for more info. Boys Tennis finished 5-1 in the red north. Yahn Bawrit won *Conference Game the singles City Championship and doubles team of Mitch Stoops and Sasha Salk also took home a City Championship.

September 2014 • 7 Alumni News

‘48 ‘62 James H. Conrod writes; “I really appreciate the good job you Richard Bailey has a published book called do with the Alumni Association and the newsletter! Lane holds “Stormy: A Novel of Climate Change.” It pulls wonderful memories and made a great contribution to my life no punches detailing our current weather and work. Go Lane!” crisis. For more information about the book, visit website: http://thelastcenturybook.com/ index.html or contact Richard directly at email: ‘56 [email protected]. Walter “Wally” Hammond resides in Jacksonville, FL and enjoys reading the Alumni Association newsletter. He recently Harry Blesy contributed photos and is pictured in the book, “Lake remarried this past June and is hoping a 60th reunion will be View”. The book also features contributions from other Lane planned in 2016. 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 ‘57 the book is Matthew Nickerson. It’s available for purchase at Rudolph J. Dichtl recently took a ten week tour of Europe with Barnes and Noble bookstores or you can call the author for an his wife Marlene. They traveled through France, Italy, Austria, autographed copy (773) 248-9452. Germany, Poland, and a weeklong Viking Cruise boat down the Rhone, seeing friends and family along the way. John Kowalski (’62) and Coach Ellis are reconnecting on a weekly basis since Coach Ellis is ‘59 a member of Sachs Recreation Richard celebrated his 50th Center in Deerfield where John wedding anniversary in early works. Coach Ellis taught P.E. at August. The theme was a Lane during the 1950s & 60s and 50’s sock-hop including Lane attended the Class of 1962 50th Tech memorabilia. Richard’s reunion in 2012 where they first guests include several Lane reconnected. John Kowalski (’62) pictured left and Tech alumni who were his Coach Melvin Ellis (right) groomsmen. Richard and ‘63 his brother Jim Hennessey Robert Hamlin began his career at IBM in 1968 and had many (’63) who traveled from Richard Hennessey (’59) pictured left and Washington state to attend Jim Hennessey (’63) pictured right administrative and education mgt. positions in IBM Education. Richard’s anniversary party He managed the relocation of the Chicago Technical visited the Alumni office. 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 ‘60 loves the outdoors and wildlife. Dr. and Mrs. Gerald Kutzman recently completed a four ‘70 month long cruise around the world. They were accompa- Jeff Olsen graduated from Illinois State University in 1974 with a nied by several close friends B.S in Economics. He retired in 2011 as postmaster in La Jolla on this 45,000 mile adventure CA with 37 years of service with USPS. He lives in Encinitas, CA. 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.

8 • Lane Tech Today ‘74 ‘00 Perry Martin & his wife, Ricardo Gutierrez received a B.A. in Spanish and an M.A. in Denise are co-owners education and has been a CPS Teacher for 8 years. of the 2014 Kentucky Derby winner, California Chrome. ‘04 Perry and Denise Stephanie Carroll is a music teacher for Horizon Science were highlighted in a Perry Martin (’74) pictured left holding the Kentucky Academy and Chicago Public Schools Derby trophy Chicago Sun-Times article about their Chicago connection. “It would have seemed preposterous had you told them that night: The two Chicago ‘09 kids would marry, start at family and, a generation later, co- Liz Cambron Rodriguez received a B.S. Health Sciences in own California Crown…”-Patrick Finley, Chicago Tribune June 2013 and is currently starting Ph.D program at NDSU in Cellular 5, 2014 article. To read more go to: and Molecular Biology http://www.suntimes.com/sports/27898147-419/chicagoan- california-chrome-co-owners-have-been-content-to-remain-in- the-shadows.html ‘85 Gregory 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. ‘93 Kenneth Lee is the owner of Lee Chiropractic Center in Des Plaines, IL. His center opened in 2000. ‘95 Laura 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. Contact Us

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September 2014 • 9 The Drum Beat

Followers 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 Lorraine F Dziadkowicz-Pruim (’89) numerous city and state titles) “Bizarre Love Triangle” by New Order Phil Gutierrez (’95) Shanna Joy (’97) Toss up between “Come Out and Play” by The Offspring Handel’s “Messiah” because Mr. Rico would make us sing or Michael Jackson’s “Heal the World” (1995 Intl. Days it every Christmas Theme) Frankie Monaco (’02) Nathalie Magallanes (’06) “Time to Say Goodbye”. It was sung at our graduation “The Chicken Song” the Polish club used it every year for Bernadette Navarro Yee International Days, and anything Pink Floyd. “Red Red Wine” UB40 1988 ... my freshman year. Paul Gonley (’81) Cory Gunderson (’87) Jimi Hendrix’s National Anthem because every year some “Jump” by Van Halen. It reminds me of the Cubs of 84. freshman would start a petition to get it played instead of the traditional scratchy version. Bill Thorson (’81) Lane Tech Rowdies!!. 1976-1984 Maureen Wade (’99) “Bad Days” by Flaming Lips Elida Ortiz (’92) “Praise Jerusalem”.... concert band lead by Dr. Ben Stoller. Sue Ptak Earle (’83) Such a powerful, masterful and inspirational piece. “Another One Bites The Dust” ... Go Lane Football!! Nelson Coronado (’89) Jorge Munoz (’94) “True Faith” - New Order “Perculator” David W Matusek (’86) Sandy R. Morales (’08) “Let the Good Times Roll” by the Cars “Hollaback girl” Ken Larson (’71) Marilyn Anders (’87) “Midnight Confessions” by the Grass Roots for class of ‘71. Pink Floyd- “Another Brick in the Wall” They were the prom band at Melody Mill (now gone). As Kenneth Rozkuszka (’66) they took publicity photos for their greatest hits album, some The entire Motown scene Lane tux jackets were borrowed as Bruce Rapa tells me. Giuseppe Nazzario Cicero (’99) Lisa Gold (’80) Alternative Rock Q101... 1812 Overture when Mr. Golden took us to play at Lesley Weile (’96) Orchestra Hall in 1978. International Days song “Heal the World” Walter Butch Brzeski (’83) Margaret Ehlscheid Ohlwine (’89) AC/DC‘s “Highway to Hell”...... It was played at parties, on “We Are the Champions!” Sung by our varsity gymnastics the lawn, and in the football locker room (LT ‘83) team city win! Torello Tacchi (’59) Glenn L Guillermo (’66) “Night Train” by Buddy Morrow played at the end of the “Satisfaction” “social” dances, Lora Susan (’92) Edward Ciecka (’67) “Hang on Sloopy” and “We Didn’t Start the Fire”....all “Paint it Black”- Rolling Stones played by LTHS marching band of course! Richard Davis (’64) Dorothe Wiedle (’82) “Be True to Your School” - Beach Journey… “Open Boys. Arms” Andrew Flor (’76) Peter Oberdick (’75) Alice Cooper’s The 1812 Overture “Schools Out”, Led done with Howitzers Zepplin’s “Dancing from the Illinois Days” and Steve Miller National Guard. Band’s “Take the Money Kristin A. Hamilton (’05) and Run” plus “Purple “Go Cubs Go” played Haze” and “Take a Walk over the loud speaker on the Wild Side” on the every morning during the juke box at Lennies. MLB playoffs of 2003.

10 • Lane Tech Today In Memoriam

1930-1939 Ronald P. Papas (’55) 4/23/12 Stephen W. Wagner (’36) Unknown Walter Stempien (’55) 5/5/14 William Zaloschan (’55) Unknown 1940-1949 LeRoy J. Gowlovech (’56) Unknown Robert F. Casey (’42) 12/2013 Aloysius Jaloszynski (’56) 4/4/12 Walter Skrzynecki (’42) 11/8/13 Jared Johnson (’56) 7/8/08 Edward Groya (’44) 8/3/13 Richard Kasten (’56) 12/2009 Gregory a. Bauer (’45) 6/7/14 Richard Norgaard (’56) 6/17/13 Richard Berger (’45) 5/22/14 Norman W. Friese (’57) 6/10/14 Richard J. Hansen (’45) 3/18/14 Bernard D. Giere (’57) 7/31/13 Peter H. Loser (’45) 3/24/14 Walter Kazakeich (’57) 5/5/13 John Mross (’45) Unknown Robert Lauffenberger (’57) 5/2014 Joseph R. Bertini (’46) 5/2010 John M. Sorman (’57) 4/22/14 Alvin Brust (’46) 1/24/13 Ronald Staschke (’57) 8/9/14 Jack Friedl (’46) Unknown Charles Voight (’57) 4/6/14 William J. O’Reilly (’46) Unknown Raymond W. Wildtraut (’57) 7/6/14 Frank A. Pusateri (’46) 11/29/11 Gordon W. Feltz (’58) 11/28/13 William R. Scharlau (’46) Unknown Robert Newgard (’59) 1/3/14 George Stylinski (’46) Unknown Richard Solwoda (’59) 7/30/14 Nicholas Marx (’47) 3/27/14 David G. Saulnier (’47) 4/20/14 1960-1969 Fred T. Schick (’47) 7/16/14 Guy Stephens (’62) 5/23/14 Donald Walsh (’47) 4/8/14 Leonard T. Grandy (’64) 5/29/13 George Wendt (’47) 6/13/14 Nils Isacsson (’65) Unknown Donald R. Carlson (’48) 6/26/14 Henry Plonka (’65) 2008 William Snowhook (’48) 10/23/13 Michael Fisher (’66) Unknown Bernard J. Grant (’49) 7/2013 Frank J. Novak (’66) 6/5/90 Ronald R. Novak (’69) 11/3/9 1950-1959 Robert Fuchs (’50) 5/31/14 1970-1979 Robert H. Eder (’52) 7/31/14 Walter Moskal (’71) 5/12/14 Wayne Gaerlan (’52) 10/22/13 Leroy Budnik (’73) 9/20/13 Gerald Struck (’52) 8/13/14 Gene Alcozer (’75) 9/2004 Eugene Badal (’55) 1/6/99 James Beier (’76) 1/25/08 Gerald E. Benson (’55) Unknown Russell Richter (’76) Unknown Don S. Delinger (’55) 5/12/13 1970-1979 Fred Garlick (’55) Unknown Kristopher Dahlin (’81) 4/7/14 Don Hermanson (’55) Unknown Harold Kling (’55) 5/24/12 FACULTY Franz Lewis (’55) 8/26/05 George Rico 8/10/14 Michael Mayer (’55) 1/21/10 Music Teacher

Correction and Farewell Mr. Rico Acknowledgements

he Lane Tech family recently lost one of Spring Issue, Page 6 T its most beloved teachers when George Dr. Richard Razgaitis (’61) was part of the Rico passed away at the age of 94 on August launch team from the first Apollo mission 10th. Mr. Rico taught music for more than five through the Lunar Landing of Apollo 11 in decades, most of that time at Lane, where August 1969. he mentored hundreds of grateful students, Thank you to Rich Dzierwa. (’80) for our many of whom carry on his legacy today as new “Drum Beat” feature name. 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. September 2014 • 11 Nonprofit Organization U.S. Postage Paid Lane Tech Alumi Association, Inc. Carol Stream, Illinois 2501 W. Addison Street, Room 114A Permit No. 819 Chicago, IL 60618-5991

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Backwards Glance

1932-1933 Lane Tech Orchestra Henry Sopkin - Conductor Herman Clebanoff - Concertmaster Fritz Siegal - 2nd Chair.

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

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