Men of Tomorrow - La Salle College High School · 2007. 11. 26. · Judge Cerski spoke to the parents about the legal ramifications of drinking and driving, DUI’s, and adults sponsoring

CELEBR AT I NG150 YEARS

La Salle College High School 8605 Cheltenham AvenueWyndmoor, Pennsylvania 19038

www.lschs.org

December 2007Volume Seventeen Number 4

The Sesquicentennial Celebration includes banners throughout the campus that depict the people and places that are La Salle College High School. One such banner depicts Wister Hall on the campus of La Salle University (then La Salle College). In the late 20’s, La Salle experienced a need for more space and moved to 20th Street and Olney Avenue, an area that was considered to be the “country.” In 1929, La Salle opened the new campus in Belfield in the Wister Woods section of Philadelphia.

Dear Parents and Guardians,

I begin by wishing you and yours a Blessed and Holy Christmas season. For the Christian community, this is a time of giving and receiving in the spirit of the Father’s gift of his Son to us. At the time, very few recognized the significance of this incarnation. Only the humble of the world were open to His transforming presence. Shepherds and angels were among the first to welcome the Prince of Peace. Let us continue this message of peace to our world in our daily lives and by the way we treat one another. Enjoy this special time for family and friends as well as the many gatherings that center around the Birth of our Lord. May the New Year bring peace and joy to each of you.

November saw a tremendous love for La Salle. The month began with the great success of our 25th Anniversary Auction – Galaxy. Your support made all of the committee work and meetings well worth it. Chris Matthews ’63 of Hardball-fame visited the campus and entertained a crowd with the signing of his new book. Our largest Open House in recent history saw over six hundred families visit our campus. The 58th Annual Father/Son Banquet and the inaugural Grandparents Day were both well attended and appreciated. La Salle lost a great booster and loyal coach with the passing of John “Tex” Flannery ’40. Tex was a true Lasallian gentleman. He was a role model to several generations on what it meant to represent La Salle. We were honored to give Tex a proper send-off and he will long be a part of “La Salle storytelling.”

Progress on our construction projects continues to go smoothly. Our new fields along Route 309 are visible from the highway and will provide a good way for La Salle to extend its marketing to a larger community. A new ten-foot wide paved path surrounds this site and will provide easy access for our fans and visitors. The new site has to be seen in order to be appreciated. Our academic building is “out of the ground” with steel giving us a better picture of the magnitude of this addition. Naturally, our students are enjoying the “distractions” and hopefully learning much about the art of construction.

We continue to enjoy strong support for our capital campaign – Fulfilling The Promise. We are hopeful of taking the campaign public with the New Year. As this is our largest fundraising endeavor, I invite you to take its success to prayer on occasion. I can assure you that I often remember all who have sacrificed for our success. The Christian Brothers’ Community often remembers our Benefactors who join us in this special ministry.

Congratulations are in order for the members of the Junior Class who will receive their class rings at a special ceremony this month. The Music Department will host two special nights of holiday cheer – you are most welcome to use them to help get in the mood for Christmas. The school will soon begin to take on holiday attire with decorations and bright lights. Be sure to take advantage of all of the opportunities that the Advent season provides.

Merry Christmas!

Sincerely yours,

Brother Richard Kestler, FSC ’60 President

Men of Tomorrow DatesToRemember

ScholarshipandEntranceExam (forEighthGradeStudents) Saturday,December1,2007

PracticeTest (forSeventhGradeStudents) Saturday,March1,2008

AdmissionsDeadlines Friday,December7,2007 (forsubmissionofacademicrecords andteacherrecommendations)

La Salle College High School8605 Cheltenham AvenueWyndmoor, Pennsylvania 19038

215 233 2911 phone215 233 0284 [email protected]

www.lschs.org

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Jim Brown has been telling the same

story for over twenty years – about the

night he saw the flashing red police

lights in front of his house. He can

retell the story of how his 16-year old

son, Jimmy, was in an almost-fatal car

accident, the result of driving with a

friend who was drinking.

Brown was one of the speakers at a panel discussion held for parents at La Salle on Wednesday, October 24, 2007. Joining Brown was his wife, Kaye, along with Linda Kraft from the Montgomery County Intermediate Unit and the Honorable Christopher Cerski from the Montgomery County Court System. The discussion was held in conjunction with La Salle’s promotion of Cruzin’ Not Boozin’, a program sponsored by Bryn Mawr Hospital and Rehabilitation Center.

Brown said that the night he endured twenty years ago was every parent’s worst nightmare. His son sustained a massive brain injury that kept him in a coma for forty-two days and broken neck that left him paralyzed from the neck down, with the exception of limited use of his left arm.

Once a gifted athlete who excelled in soccer, baseball, and basketball, the 6’3” Jimmy Brown, now 37, is confined to a wheel chair and must depend on others to care for his needs. His athletic pursuits were recorded on home videos and clips of his games, along with interviews with his coaches, were included in a 30 –minute video, “The Choice is Yours – The Jimmy Brown Story.”

The panel discussion provided a forum for La Salle College High School to educate parents about the dangers of drinking and driving. With the help of speakers such as The Brown Family, Linda Kraft, and Judge Cerski, parents can connect through personal stories and experiences.

Judge Cerski spoke to the parents about the legal ramifications of drinking and driving, DUI’s, and adults sponsoring and/or hosting underage parties. Beginning in December Judge Cerski will be at La Salle College High School to speak to the seniors in their Group Advisory Classes. The boys will have an opportunity to ask questions and discuss situations they may encounter as well as the consequences of their choices.

Things Every Parent Should Know

• The adolescent brain is not fully developed until in their early 20’s.

• The brain is extremely vulnerable to alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use.

• Behavioral and psychological issues are consistently associated with tobacco use.

• Prescription drugs and inhalants are popular and dangerous, and used in concert with alcohol, are a deadly combination.

• Kids need support when they make poor choices.

• 65% of underage drinkers get their alcohol from parents, adult friends, and family members.

• Social hosts may be liable if minors are drinking and may also be liable for the minor’s injuries.

Things Every Student Should Know

• Don’t drink and drive.

• Don’t get in car with someone who has been drinking.

• During a typical weekend, an average of of one teenager dies each hour in a car accident and more than half include alcohol.

• Anyone under the age of 21 commits a criminal offense if they attempt to purchase, consume, or transport liquor. The violation could prohibit the minor from obtaining financial aid and/or admission to State Schools in Pennsylvania.

Men of Tomorrow

Office of the PrincipalJoseph L. MarchesePrincipal

4 The Belcroft December

Dear Parents and Guardians,

I trust that you had a pleasant and restful Thanksgiving break. Thanksgiving ushers in a hectic holiday season. We need to remind ourselves to take time away from the hustle and bustle of holiday shopping to focus on Advent – the coming of our Lord, Jesus Christ.

If you have not been on campus lately, November marked great progress in our construction project. Steel beams are now beginning to define the size and shape of our new three-story structure and it is very exciting to see the building take form. Prospective students and parents at our Open House were impressed with our plans and had many questions about the project. I am very grateful to all in the La Salle community who helped to make Open House such a great success.

Special thanks also to all of our Fall sports teams for another great season. In addition to our Philadelphia Catholic League Championship in Golf, Cross Country notched their fifth consecutive championship. Congratulations to Coach Greg Bielecki in his first season as Head Coach, and to coaches Pat Devine, Doug Demeter, and Tom Devlin for their assistance. Special congratulations to the runners for their hard work and accomplishments.

If you are a music-lover, please make it a point to join us for La Salle’s two wonderful Christmas Concerts. The Band Christmas Concert will take place in the school auditorium on Monday, December 10, 2007 at 7:15 pm. You can join us the very next week for our Choral Christmas Concert on Monday, December 17, 2007 at 7:30 pm. If you have not yet had a chance to hear the professional-like quality of La Salle’s Music Program, these are “can’t miss” events and a wonderful way to get into the Christmas spirit. Speaking of Christmas, our school-wide Advent Liturgy will take place on Friday, December 21, 2007 with Christmas recess beginning at noon.

In closing, I wish you and your family a blessed Christmas Holiday and a Happy New Year. The celebration of the birth of the baby Jesus reminds us that Our Lord lives among us. Our challenge is to find him in all that surrounds us. His presence is certainly palpable here at La Salle College High School.

Merry Christmas!

Sincerely yours,

Joseph L. Marchese Principal

Diana Kelly McInaw, J.J. Houldin ’08, Pat Maginnis ’09, Ron Abel ’08, Austin Meehan ’08, Carol Haggerty, and Principal Joe Marchese at LaSale 2007.

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Office of Student AffairsJulia K. MaherAssistant Principal for Student Affairs

Student Council MixerThe second mixer of the year was held on Friday, November 16, 2007 with about 1,000 guys and gals in attendance. Solid Ground Productions was the disc jockey for the evening with the senior band Long Miles (Brett Haenn, James McNally, Sam Morgan, Jason Rivkin, and John Shields ) entertaining the students in the cafeteria.

Junior Ring LiturgyThe Class of 2009 will celebrate another La Salle tradition on Tuesday, December 5, 2007 with the annual Ring Liturgy and Ceremony. Presiding and blessing these symbols of being upperclassmen at La Salle will be Rev. Anthony Janton, our School Chaplain. The rings will be presented to the students by Mr. Nicholas Coggins, Junior Class Moderator, Mr. Joseph Marchese, Principal, and Brother Richard Kestler, FSC, President.

Winter DanceThe date for this annual semi-formal dance is Friday, January 18, 2008. Tickets for this dance are $10 per person. La Salle students must wear a sport coats/suit coats and slacks. Students will be able to purchase tickets the week of the dance.

Request from our NeighborsWe ask that all parents who are dropping off or picking up their sons at anytime (school hours, extracurricular activities, social events, etc.) not to use Hawthorne Lane. With young children living in the houses along the street, the residents are concerned for their safety. Thank for your cooperation.

Going on Vacation?A reminder to all parents: If you are planning a family vacation during days when school is in session, please notify your son’s teachers AND the Attendance Office at (215) 233-4140 before leaving.

School Closing for Inclement WeatherThe announcement for school closings is made on KYW 1060 Radio as early as possible. Our school closing number is 333. La Salle’s website, www.lschs.org, is also a source for such announcements. Two TV stations will also carry information for La Salle – ABC WPVI-6 and WCAU NBC-10. In the case of snow during a school day, an early dismissal will be announced on KYW and the TV stations as soon as a decision has been reached. We would appreciate your cooperation in NOT calling the school on these days.

Pennsylvania Governor’s Schools of ExcellenceThe Pennsylvania Governor’s Schools of Excellence are a comprehensive set of 5-week long summer residential enrichment programs for high school students, taking place on college campuses across the state. The Governor’s Schools are an initiative of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Education.

The Governor’s Schools are for high school students who are variously considered talented, high achieving, gifted,’ or demonstrating unusual abilities and skills in the content areas of the programs. Especially, they are for students who have not only demonstrated above average ability in a given content area but who possess high interest and curiosity about the field.

The Programs that are offered are: School for the Agricultural Sciences, School for the Arts, School for Global Entrepreneurship, School for Health Care, School for Information Technology, School for International Studies, School for the Sciences and the School for Teaching. The deadline for these programs varies from January 7, 2008 to February 1, 2008. Information and applications are available through Mr. Patrick Devine in the Guidance office.

Eligibility for the programs are 10th and 11th grades and some are for 11th grade only. Applications are also available on the Internet. ( Go to www..state.pa.us and type in “Schools of Excellence” in the search engine. You can also reach the applications on-line through a link at www.pgse.org}. Each application includes detailed “how to” instructions for making application. In the case of the Pa. Governor’s School for the Arts, students submit samples of their work in creative writing {fiction or poetry}, visual art, photography, music performance, dance performance acting or theater design and technology.

In the case of all other Governor’s Schools, students write essays, two teachers’ complete references, and the guidance counselor gathers the transcript together with a recommendation form. If there are questions, please contact Mr. Devine, Mrs. Spearing, or Mr. Leahy in the Guidance Office.

6 The Belcroft December

Academic Support ResourcesNow that the second marking period has begun, it is appropriate to remind students and their families of the support services that are available for all La Salle students. Please keep in mind that a poor performance (grade) is typically the result of falling short in the areas of ability and/or effort.

Allow me to share a personal experience that highlights the importance of serious daily study. With the admissions process for the Class of 2012 in full swing, La Salle has been blessed with countless 8th grade students spending a day on our campus. Part of a visit includes a 15-minute personal interview with an administrator. It is a wonderful opportunity for us to get to know future prospective students. Not surprisingly, these young men typically make a very nice first impression; however, the one concern that surfaces repeatedly pertains to a part of the conversation where La Salle’s homework recommendation is discussed. The suggestion of spending 20-minutes per night per subject (a conservative estimate) shocks many 8th grade students. Now that academic habits are being rooted, is a good time to remind students of the academic commitment expected outside of the classroom. Please encourage and nurture your son to follow-through on spending significant quality time (quite and away from distractions) on his studies daily.

If your son is struggling or frustrated in a specific area, encourage him to meet with his classroom teacher. When experiencing difficulty in any course, a student’s first response should always be to see his teacher for help. One predictable outcome may include the development of a routine tutoring arrangement. A student’s grade-level counselor can also help in developing a plan of action if a student’s academic struggles are pervasive or if his comfort level with the situation is less than ideal. Know that outside of his classroom teacher, additional academic support services are available. La Salle’s chapter of the National Honor Society coordinates a peer tutoring program that provides students with student-to-student help on many levels in several areas. When possible, help is arranged during the school day. NHS tutoring is coordinated by Dr. Joe D’Angelo and Brother William DiPasquale, FSC. Furthermore, La Salle has the benefit of running a Math Resource Room and Writing Center to help students in these targeted areas. They are open throughout the school day and staffed by our own teachers (whenever available). Annual records indicate that hundreds of students take advantage of these resources annually. Finally, La Salle continues its commitment to operating its own After School Homework Help Center. The primary focus of the Homework Help Center is to assist students with the completion of their everyday assignments. The center is

Office of Academic AffairsThomas R. BarnaAssistant Principal for Academic Affairs

located in Room 110 and is open from 2:30 pm until 4:30 pm, Monday through Thursday. It is staffed by Mr. John Reifsnyder ‘01 and various faculty volunteers. In addition to the services listed above, families may benefit knowing that La Salle’s McShain Library is opened Monday through Thursday from 7:30 am to 5:00pm and Fridays between 7:30 am and 3:30 pm.

Some Important DatesLa Salle Christmas recess begins at the end of school on Friday, December 21, 2007. Classes resume for 2008 on Thursday, January 3, 2008. The first semester ends at the end of the day on Monday, January 14, 2007. First semester exams begin prior to the Martin Luther King holiday weekend. Midterm exams will start on Tuesday, January 15, 2008 and end on Friday, January 18, 2008. The midterm exam schedule, although not developed for this submission, will be posted at the end of the first week of January both in school and on the website under the Academic Life tab. There will be no classes on Monday, January 21, 2008. The SAT will be offered nationally on January 26th. Spring SAT dates include March 1, May 3, and June 7 (for details check out www.collegeboard.com or “links and resources” at www.lschs.org/college)

The second semester begins on Monday, January 22, 2008 with “A” day schedule. New schedules for the second semester will be issued to all students in homeroom on that day. Please note that : freshmen who had gym in semester one, will have pool (aquatics) in semester two; students who had pool in semester one, will have gym in semester two.

Campus StoreBarbara Wisotzkey Gerry Clark

For your holiday shopping convenience, the Campus Store will be open from 6:30 to 9:00 pm on the evening of the Christmas Band Concert on Monday, December 10, 2007. There will also be a limited amount of merchandise available at the Mothers’ Club Christmas Shopping Spectacular on Sunday, December 2, 2007.

There is something for every one of all ages, even the difficult to shop for individuals on your gift list. Shop early as sizes become limited the closer we get to the holidays.

If we can be of any assistance, please do not hesitate to call us during normal hours from 8:00 am to 1:30 pm or email [email protected]

College Counseling CenterMary Kay MullenDirector of College Counseling

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Financial AidInformation about financial aid – forms to be completed, deadlines, loans, etc – can be found at our website www.lschs.org/college in the “Links and Resources” section on the left hand side. Scroll down and click on the “Paying for College” link. Check out www.fafsa.ed.gov, www.finaid.org, www.collegeboard.com, www.educationplanner.com, www.pheaa.org (PA state grants) and www.aessuccess.org (PA state loans).

Be aware of the financial aid forms needed for each college since each college has its own requirements and deadlines. The possibilities are the FAFSA, CSS Profile, and the college’s own financial aid form. Be very aware of deadlines for these forms. Given the increasing costs of college, we urge our students to be diligent about filing the forms in a complete and timely manner and to take advantage of every scholarship opportunity. You can get an estimate of eligibility for federal student aid by visiting www.fafsa4caster.com.

Information about scholarships that come to the College Counseling Center will be posted on www.lschs.org/college under “Scholarship Information”. Seniors applying for scholarships from a college or university often need to meet an early deadline. Take note of the specific requirements. The following are excellent scholarship search sites: www.fastweb.com, www.scholarships.com, and www.brokescholar.com.

The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) cannot be filed until January 1, 2008. However, students and parents should apply for Personal Identification Numbers (PINS) before beginning the process at www.fafsa.ed.gov. This four-digit number will serve as your electronic signature and it also can be used whenever corrections need to be made to the FAFSA. The number remains the same throughout the student’s college years and should be kept in a secure place.

Additions To List Of CollegesSeniors are reminded to inform the College Counseling Center by Monday, December 3, 2007, about any colleges they are adding to their original list. The counselors need time for processing these requests before the Christmas holidays. Copies of letters of acceptance or scholarship awards should be brought to the College Counseling Center.

Important ReminderJuniors and Seniors – Keep in mind as you are preparing for semester exams that your GPA in College Preparatory Courses is the most important criteria in the college admission process. Keep up the good work!

JuniorsThe college counselors suggest that the juniors make plans to take standardized tests in the second semester. Registration deadline for the SAT on Saturday, January 26, 2008 is December 26, 2007. The registration deadline for the Saturday, February 9, 2008 ACT is January 4, 2008. Each junior should have taken two of the same test – either ACT or SAT – by the end of second semester junior year. The complete schedule of test and registration dates is available at our website: www.lschs.org/college, www.collegeboard.com (SAT), and www.actstudent.org (ACT).

Advisory classes for juniors regarding the college search and application process will begin second semester. Check out our website for comprehensive information including the advisory class syllabus and the La Salle College High School College Counseling Handbook.

Winter SAT Preparation CoursesFor the sixth year in a row, La Salle College High School is offering classes to prepare for the SAT that will be administered on March 1, 2007. Under the direction of Mr. Dennis Bloh of the English Department and a consultant for the College Board, the series of five (5) classes and two practice tests will be held on Saturday mornings from 8:30 am until 1:00 pm. There will be three different components of the class: Math, Verbal, and Writing.

The schedule will be as follows:8:30 – 10:30 Math10:30 – 11:45 Verbal11:45 – 1:00 Writing

The dates for the course are:January 5, 2008 – First ClassJanuary 12, 2008 – First Practice TestJanuary 19, 2008 – Second ClassJanuary 26, 2008 – Third ClassFebruary 2, 2008 – Fourth ClassFebruary 9, 2008 – Second Practice TestFebruary 16, 2008 – President’s Weekend (No Class)February 23, 2008 – Fifth Class

The cost of the course is:$ 200.00 for Math$ 150.00 for Verbal$ 150.00 for Writing$ 400.00 for All Three

For information please contact Mr. Dennis Bloh at (215) 233-2911, ext. 4105 or [email protected]

To register contact Mrs. Suzanne Russo at (215) 233-2911 or [email protected]

8 The Belcroft December

Lasallian Service CorpsLew Clark and Thomas Devlin ’00LSC Coordinators

Lasallian Service CorpsOn-Going Service Opportunities2006-2007 SundaySt. Francis InnSunday Before the First Monday of the Month10:00 amPrepare sandwiches to be delivered to a soup kitchen in inner city Philadelphia. Contact: Mr. Chuck Cirelli TuesdayLa Salle Academy Tutoring3:00 to 6:00 pmTutor inner city children at La Salle Academy, the original site of La Salle College High School.Contact: Mr. Dan Cipolla and Mr. Micky Dominick Human Rights Forum2:15 pmMeet and discuss justice issues, the release of political prisoners, and reconciliation among people.Contact: Mrs. Betty Field WednesdayProvidence Center3:00 to 6:00 pmTutor children in a center in Kensington run by the Sisters of the Holy Child.Contact: Mr. Tom Barna and Mrs. Cathy Winning

ThursdayExplorer Club2:45 to 5:00 pmWork with grade school children in a mentoring capacity by assisting with homework and social activities.Contacts: Mrs. Mary Jo Smith, Mr. Joe Radvansky, Mr. Michael Ponisciak, and Mrs. Fran Diccicco

Triest House4:30 to 5:30 pmAssist mentally-challenged adults with physical therapy.Contact: Mr. Al Puntel

ThursdayProject HomeTwice A Month – Limited to SeniorsPrepare Food on Wednesdays – Serve Food on Thursdays3:30 to 6:00 pmContacts: Mrs. Mary Kay Mullen and Mrs. Kathleen O’Connell Sarnelli House5:00 to 9:00 pmServe a meal and friendship with the poor in Kensington.Contacts: Mr. Lew Clark and Mrs. Carol Haggerty FridayRosary For Life2:20 pmPray the rosary in La Salle’s Chapel for the unborn and those affected by abortion.Contacts: Mr. Al Puntel and Mr. Mark Collins Saturday and Sunday Saint Vincent’s Soup KitchenSaturday and Sunday Morning9:00 to 11:30 amLast Sunday of the Month12:30 to 2:30 pmPrepare and serve meals to the poor of Germantown.Contact: Men of La Salle – Visit www.lschs.org Seasonal Opportunities Thanksgiving Food DriveSecret Santa and Operation Santa ClausMission DriveMagazine Drive for San Miguel in Camden Summer OpportunitiesAppalachian Service Trip to KentuckyWork with Habitat for Humanity rehabbing homes for families. Contact: Mr. Thomas Devlin

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Mothers’ Club

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Thank you to the committee members, volunteers, those who attended the event, donated a gift, made a cash donation, purchased a raffle ticket, took an ad, or participated in any way. The evening was a huge success due to the tremendous support received from the entire La Salle community. Over $300,000 was raised and the proceeds will be used for a variety of needs, including facility and technology enhancements, student service programs, faculty development programs, and financial aid.

10 The Belcroft December

Ask yourself questions when creating rules for your teen.As your teen grows older, he needs fewer rules. But you still need to set limits on what is—and isn’t—allowed.

The key to setting effective rules for your teen is balance. He needs independence but you still need to keep some control.

Rules will be different for each family. But here are some questions to ask yourself as you are setting rules for your teen:

• Has my teen had a chance to talk about this rule with me? Teens should have input about rules, although parents should always make the final decision.

• Will this rule help my teen develop independence? Teens need to learn how to think for themselves. They need a chance to make choices and live with them. But they can’t handle every choice. For example, by high school, teens can decide when to study, but not whether to study.

• Am I setting an example of following this rule? If you don’t wear your seat belt when driving in a car, you shouldn’t be surprised to discover your teen isn’t wearing one when he is driving with his friends.

• Does my teen know what will happen if the rule is violated? The time to decide is before the rule is broken.

Reprinted with permission from the December 2007 issue of Parents Still Make The Difference!® (High School Edition). Copyright © 2007 The Parent Institute®, a Division of NIS, Inc. Source: James Windell, Children Who Say

No When You Want Them to Say Yes, ISBN: 0-028619-03-X

Ask your teenager to give you a report card on your parenting.“Parenting is one of the hardest jobs in the world,” is a common phrase coming from the mouths of parents. “Still, it’s also the most important thing most of us will ever do in our lives.”

But while you’re caught in the whirlwind of raising a teen, it’s sometimes hard to get any perspective. So it might not be a bad idea to ask your son(s) to give you their own report card. In fact, ask them to give you a grade as parents.

Like most report cards, there are different areas on which to be graded. Here are some questions to ask your teen:

• What are some of the best things we have done as a family? Name two or three of your favorite memories.

• When you have a family of your own, what will you do differently? What are some things you’ll want to do the way we do?

• What are your hopes and dreams for the future? How can we help you achieve those dreams?

• How are we doing overall?

You might be nervous to hear your teen’s answers to these questions, but it will bring you even closer to your son. In fact, you will wish you had asked for your report card sooner!

Reprinted with permission from the December 2007 issue of Parents Still Make The Difference!® (High School Edition). Copyright © 2007 The Parent

Institute®, a Division of NIS, Inc.

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Be aware of ‘pharming’—a new trend in teen substance abuse.A recent study found a frightening trend among today’s teens: They are more likely to abuse prescription and over-the-counter medications than most illegal drugs.

The Partnership for a Drug-Free America states that nearly one in five teens has tried prescription medication to get high. One in ten teens admits to using cough medicine to get high.

Teens have a false sense of security about abusing medications. They think that since they are often prescribed by doctors, they are safer to use than illegal drugs like marijuana and Ecstasy.

Teens also reported that they have easier access to medications than illegal drugs—more than three in five teens say prescription and over-the-counter medications are easy to get from parents’ medicine cabinets.

So what can you do?

• Talk to your teen about the dangers of drug use. Explain that abusing any drug is harmful, whether it’s legal or illegal. Medications can be just as damaging as illegal drugs.

• Keep a close eye on your own prescription and over- the-counter medicine. If you notice that you need to refill your prescription earlier than you should, it’s definitely time to talk with your teen.

Reprinted with permission from the December 2007 issue of Parents Still Make The Difference!® (High School Edition). Copyright © 2007 The Parent Institute®, a Division of NIS, Inc. Source: “Generation RX: National Study Confirms Abuse of Prescription and Over-the-Counter Drugs,” The Partnership for a Drug-Free America.

Warning To ParentsGoogle has recently implemented a nationwide reverse telephone book, which enables you to type a telephone number into the search bar, hit “enter” and you will be given the person’s name and address. If you then click “map” you will get a map to the location of the house.

The safety issues, particularly for younger children, are alarming. If a child gives out their phone number, someone can now look it up to find out where they live.

You can have your phone number removed or blocked by clicking on your telephone and then clicking on the removal form. The removal process takes about 48 hours.

12 The Belcroft December

Mothers’ ClubBarbara Grelis HouldinPresident

Upcoming Calendar of EventsDecember 2 Christmas Shopping Spectacular

December 4 Mother/Son Service Project (Cafeteria)

December 5 Junior Ring Mass (Event Support)

December 6 Mothers’ Club Meeting 9:15 am Dunleavy Center

January 6 Mother/Son Service Project (Cafeteria)

January 10 Mothers’ Club Meeting 9:15 am Dunleavy Center

All mothers are cordially invited to attend the Mothers’ Club monthly meeting, which will be held on December 6, 2007 at the Dunleavy Center. Coffee will be available at 9:15 am and the meeting will begin promptly at 9:30 am. Board members will report on recent and upcoming Mothers’ Club events. Chris Carabello, La Salle’s Director of Communications and Public Relations, will also present information on “Secret Santa,” an outreach program that brings Christmas joy (and toys) to sick children and their siblings. Mothers who would like to do so may make a contribution to defray the costs of “Secret Santa” at this meeting.

Please e-mail Barbara Houldin, Mothers’ Club President, at [email protected] no later than December 3, 2007 if you are able to attend, so can plan appropriately for our meeting.

Upcoming Volunteer OpportunitiesVolunteer help is welcome and appreciated at the following upcoming Mothers’ Club events. Please e-mail the contact listed for each event with your availability.

December 1 – 2, 2007Christmas Shopping SpectacularAuditoriumSet-Up, Event Assistance

Contact:Kim [email protected]

December 2, 2007Mother/Son Service Project for St. Francis InnCafeteriaMake brown bag meals.

Contact:Chris [email protected]

December 18, 2007Secret Santa Gift WrappingAuditoriumWrap Gifts

Contact:Barbara [email protected]

Sally Foster Gift Wrap SaleThank you to all the families that participated in the Sally Foster Fundraiser. If you are still in need of some gift wrap for those holiday presents, La Salle will continue to receive full credit for all orders placed online until January 15, 2007. Go to www.sallyfoster.com, reference Account No. 67725, and your order will be shipped promptly to your home address.

Any questions, contact: Krista McElroy Debbie Landregan(215) 643-3061 (267) [email protected] [email protected]

Christmas Shopping SpectacularSunday December 2, 200712:00 to 5:00 pmAuditorium

Over fifty vendors will be at La Salle to sell their unique merchandise, so grab your mother, your daughter, your sister, or your friends and come “shop ‘till you drop.”

$25 at the doorWalk-Ins Welcome

For information, please contact:Kim Driscoll Eileen Maginnis(215) 542-2813 (215) [email protected] [email protected]

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Special Thanks!Thank you to the mothers of seniors for adding a festive touch to our school by decorating the Senior Christmas tree. The ornaments look beautiful on the tree. Look for your son to bring home their personalized La Salle Christmas ornament on December 18, 2007.

Mother and Son Service ProjectThe La Salle Mothers’ Club is partnering with Mr. Chuck Cirelli on a service project for mothers and their sons. The project involves making “brown bag” meals for the homeless and less fortunate served by St. Francis Inn in Kensington. We meet on Sundays before the first Monday of the month to prepare the meals.

We will be meeting on Sunday, December 2, 2007 and on Sunday, January 6, 2008 at 10:00 am in the school cafeteria. We should be finished in about ninety minutes. All of the food needed to make the meals will be provided. Refreshments will be served. If you have brown paper grocery bags at home, please bring them along as we use them to pack the bagged meals.

If you and your son are able to participate in this project, kindly contact:

Chris Letcavage Ellen Derr(215)368-2833 (610) [email protected] [email protected]

New York City TripLegally BlondeApril 16, 2008Depart Montgomery Mall

The La Salle Mothers’ Club is headed to Broadway to see the matinee performance of Legally Blonde. Departure is set for 8:30 am from Montgomery Mall. Our event includes round trip transportation, theatre tickets, box lunch, and special drinks and goodies on the bus.

The musical runs for 2 1/2 hours with a 15 minute intermission. You will have plenty of time to enjoy dinner in New York City before we head home. Departure from New York is set for 8:00 pm with an expected arrival time of 10:30 pm back to Montgomery Mall.

Reservations for this wonderful event are made on a first come first served basis, so if you want to enjoy a wonderful day in New York City this spring, send a check for $180 per person made out to La Salle Mothers’ Club (including name, address, telephone number, and email address) to:

Miriam Ralston515 Edann RoadGlenside, PA 19038

SAVE THE DATES!Sunday, February 24, 2008Mother/Son Communion BrunchWilliamson’s CaterersHorsham, Pa

Thursday, March 13, 2008Fashion ShowPresidential CaterersNorristown, PA

Mothers’ Club Board Alumnae LuncheonThursday, May 15, 2008Whitemarsh Valley Country Club

We hope all “alumnae” of the Mothers’ Club Board will join our honored guests, the Past Presidents and Moderators, for a special luncheon at Whitemarsh Valley Country Club on Thursday May 15, 2008, in honor of WLa Salle’s Sesquicentennial. Our committee needs your help finding Board members. We do not want to miss anyone.

To share names and contact information of women with whom you served on the Board, please contact:

Kathy Caramenico(610) [email protected]

Mothers’ Club SurveyDeadline Extended until December 18, 2007

There’s still time to let the Mothers’ Club know how good a job you think we’re doing in meeting the needs of mothers and female guardians of La Salle students. We’d really like to know what you think. Please take a few minutes to complete the Mothers’ Club survey, available online now in the Mothers’ Club area of the school website, www.lschs.org. The deadline for participating in the survey is December 18, 2007, and we expect the results to be available in February.

The Mothers’ Club would like to wish all members of the La Salle community a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

See TheCommunications

Envelope

14 The Belcroft December

Men of La SalleTimothy J. Foley ’66President

Upcoming Events Thursday, December 6, 2007 Monthly Meeting 6:30 pm

Thursday, January 10, 2008 Monthly Meeting 6:30 pm

58th Annual Father/Son BanquetThe 58th Annual Father/Banquet was held on Thursday, November 15, 2007 at Williamson’s Restaurant. Almost 900 fathers and sons attended the event. Joe Conklin, “The Man of 1,000 Voices” and WIP Sports Talk Radio personality, entertained the crowd.

Special thanks to Jim McLaughlin ‘57, Past President of the Men of La Salle, for all of his efforts in organizing the event and making it one of the most well-attended in history.

St. Vincent’s Soup KitchenEvery weekend through the end of the school year, the Men of La Salle will continue our service to those less fortunate in our community, by helping to prepare and serve meals to at St. Vincent’s. The Soup Kitchen is located at 109 East Price Street, in the Germantown section of Philadelphia. This is a great opportunity for fathers and sons to spend some time together in service to the needy in our community, and strengthen the bond of father and son at the same time. We need volunteers to prepare food every Saturday and Sunday from 9:30 to 11:30 am, and to serve food the last Sunday of each month between 12:30 and 2:30 pm. No experience is necessary – just a desire to spend some time together and help others. Please go on-line to sign up and make a difference!

15th Annual Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving Morning(to Benefit Face-to-Face at St. Vincent’s)Thursday, November 22, 2007 9:00 am Forbidden Drive (from Northwestern Avenue to Valley Green Inn and back)

A great “kick off” to Thanksgiving Day!

On behalf of the Men of La Salle, I would like to wish you and your family a Merry Christmas.

The Christmas StoryAbout that time Caesar Augustus ordered a census to be taken throughout the Empire. This was the first census when Quirinius was the governor of Syria. Everyone had to travel to his hometown to be accounted for. So Joseph went from the Galilean town of Nazareth up to Bethlehem in Judah, David’s hometown, for the census. As a descendant of David he had to go there. He went with Mary, his fiancée, who was with child.

While they were there, the time came for her to give birth. She gave birth to a son, her firstborn. She wrapped Him in a blanket and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the hostel.

There were shepherds camping in the neighborhood. They had set night watches over their sheep. Suddenly, God’s angel stood among them and God’s glory blazed around them. They were terrified. The angel said, “Don’t be afraid. I’m here to announce a great and joyful event that is meant for everybody worldwide: A Savior has just been born in David’s town, a Savior who is Messiah and Master. This is what you’re to look for: a baby wrapped in a blanket and lying in a manger.”

At once the angel was joined by a huge angelic choir singing God’s praises: “Glory to God in the heavenly heights; Peace to all men and women on earth who please Him.”

As the angel choir withdrew into heaven, the shepherds talked it over. “Let’s get over to Bethlehem as fast as we can and see for ourselves what God has revealed to us.” They left, running, and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in the manger. Seeing was believing. They told everyone they met what the angels had said about this child. All who heard the shepherds were impressed.

Mary kept all these things to herself, holding them dear, deep within herself. The shepherds returned and let loose, glorifying and praising God for everything they had heard and seen. It turned out exactly the way they’d been told!

Luke 2:1-20

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Thursday, November 17, 2007Williamson Restaurant

875 Fathers and Sons2 Rooms1 Special Evening

16 The Belcroft December

Summer Session 2008June 23, 2008 through July 25, 2008Monday through Friday8:30 am to 1:00 pmTuition: $890Transportation: $240 additional

Pre-7th GradeAcademic Enrichment ProgramOpen to Girls and BoysEntering the 7th Grade

La Salle offers a program centering on reading and writing, math, art, science and computer skills. Students attend daily classes in reading, writing and math. The core classes are supplemented by hands-on lab workshops in art, science and computer education which meet on alternate days throughout the program.

Pre-8th GradeAcademic Enrichment and Test PreparationOpen to Girls and BoysEntering the Eighth Grade

La Salle offers a program centering on reading and writing, math, art, science and computer skills and preparation for high school entrance examinations. Students prepare for high school entrance tests through one full-scale practice test and through shorter, weekly practice units.

Summer Session Scholarship ExamSaturday April 5, 20089:00 amScholarship Value$395 for Pre 7th Grade Program$445 for Pre 8th Grade Program$35 fee (deductible from session tuition)

For further information, please contact us at (215) 233-2911, ext. 4175 or [email protected] us on the web at www.lschs.organd choose Summer Programs tab.

Winter SAT Preparation ProgramJanuary 2008 through March 2008Eight Saturdays8:30 am to 1:00 pmIncludes Two Practice Tests

For additional information, please call (215) 233-2911.

SAT Course(Meets Tuesdays and Thursdays)June 24, 2008 through July 24, 2008

SAT Math 8:30 to 10:30 am Cost $300

This twenty hour course reviews the basic principles of Arithmetic, Algebra, Probability, Statistics, Data Analysis, Geometry and Trigonometry. Strategies are introduced for handling the new SAT problems involving these principles. Students will use ten SAT tests to learn principles and strategies so that they will become comfortable with the formatting and type of questions on the actual test.

SAT Critical Reading 10:30 to 11:30 am Cost $150

This course will focus on reading comprehension, sentence completion and paragraph length critical reading.

SAT Writing11:30 to 1:00 pm Cost $225

This course will be devoted to helping the student organize and express his or her ideas more clearly. It will also reinforce correct grammar, usage and word choice.

These twenty-five hour courses begin with a series of diagnostic tests, which focus on sentence completions, analogies, reading comprehension, and written English. The new SAT requirements are stressed along with a general review of test taking strategies. There are practice tests given during the five weeks of the course and a Review Class prior to the PSAT and October SAT. It is strongly advised that a student enroll in both courses; however, the option exists to take just one.

Enrollment in all Three Course Cost $625

All courses are open to students – male or female – from any area school.

To register for any course(s), please go to our website www.lschs.org and click on the Summer Programs tab and print out the registration form.

Summer ProgramTerrence P. Gillespie ‘82Director of Summer Program

Things initially looked bleak for La Salle’s Cross Country team after losing six of its seven varsity members from last year’s championship team; however, it was not long until runners from the very talented JV and Freshmen teams of last year stepped up to the fill the shoes of those that were lost. In the end, the team was able to pull together for a fifth straight win at the Philadelphia Catholic League Championships and for a second year in a row, La Salle swept the league with victories in all three races – Varsity, JV, and Freshman – showing a promising future for years to come.

The varsity squad, composed of seniors Tom Buoncristiano, Chris Fasy, and Dan Lowry, juniors Sean McCullough, and Pat Donnelly, and sophomores Tom O’Kane, Sean Quinn, and James Stevenson, showed that they were capable of continuing the La Salle legacy with good showings at the Paul Short Invitational, the Salesianum Invitational, and the Manhattan Invitational. The team, led by Captains Brian Ledder, Chris Fasy, Dan Lowry, and Tom Buoncristiano, solidified its usual role of dominance in the Philadelphia Catholic League with another undefeated league season, and proved to be a powerful threat to teams all over the Northeast.

One major driving force of the team’s success was the talented coaching staff. First-year head coach, Mr. Greg Bilecki ’99, brought with him plenty of experience as a runner as well as a passion for the sport. Assisting him was a coach with thirty-six years of experience, Mr. Pat Devine, along with Mr. Tom Devlin ‘00 and Mr. Doug Demeter ’93.

Men of AccomplishmentCross Country Wins Fifth Consecutive Championshipby Dan Lowry ‘08

This motivating and often times eccentric crew sculpted a team that was able to race competitively even under the worst conditions, which would come on handy the day of Philadelphia Catholic League Championships.

The course at Belmont Plateau on Saturday, October 27, 2007 was almost entirely made of mud, but when other teams faltered, La Salle stood strong. The freshmen set the tone with a team victory and outstanding performances by Brenden Stone and Seamus Morgan, who went finished first and second. The JV continued this momentum, with six runners finishing in the top ten. Stellar performances were made by JV champion James Stevenson, along with Dan LaMorte, Ryan Werner, and Brian Ledder. The varsity race was won by Dan Lowry, and included clutch finishes by Pat Donnelly, Tom O’Kane, Tom Buoncristiano, and Sean McCullough. In addition to winning the Philadelphia Catholic League Championship, the varsity team came in second place at the Eastern State Championship Meet in New York and was ranked 8th in the Northeast and 3rd in the State of Pennsylvania on www.dyestat.com, the national high school cross country and track website. With an ambitious coaching staff and many key returns for next year’s team, one thing seems clear: La Salle shows no signs of slowing down in this golden age of cross country and the best is yet to come.

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18 The Belcroft December

Varsity Sports SchedulesTony ReschAthletic Director

BasketballJoe DempseyHead Coach

December

1 La Salle (Miami, FL) 7:00 pm Home 7 Christian Brothers Classic 8:30 pm Home McQuaid Jesuit High School 8 Christian Brothers Classic Home 11 Malvern Prep 7:30 pm Away 14 Make A Wish Tournament 5:00 pm Germantown Episcopal Academy Academy 15 Make A Wish Tournament 7:00 pm Germantown Germantown Academy Academy 21 Archbishop Ryan 8:00 pm Home 23 Father Judge 2:30 pm Away 29 Jameer Nelson Classic Gwynedd- Cheltenham High Schoo Mercy College 31 St. Joseph’s Prep 2:00 pm Away

BowlingSteve FaunceHead Coach

December

4 Archbishop Ryan Invitational 3:15 pm Boulevard Lanes 11 Northeast Catholic 3:15 pm Thunderbird Lanes 13 Cardinal Dougherty 3:15 pm Thunderbird Lanes 18 Conwell-Egan Catholic 3:15 pm Bristol Pike Lanes 20 Archbishop Ryan 3:15 pm Boulevard Lanes 29 Thunderbird Lanes Holiday 8:00 am Thunderbird Tournament Lanes

Indoor Track and FieldGreg Bielecki ‘99Head Coach

December

1 Philadelphia Catholic League Meet 12:30 pm Lehigh University

SwimmingFrank LichtnerHead Coach

Defending Philadelphia Catholic League Champions

December

1 Loyola (Blakeslee, MD) 1:00 pm Malvern Prep Malvern Prep 11 North Penn 3:30 pm Away 21 St. Joseph’s (Metuchen, NJ) 5:00 PM La Salle University

WrestlingVic StanleyHead Coach

Defending Philadelphia Catholic League ChampionsDecember

1 Nazareth Tournament 8:00 am 7 Penn Manor Tournament 3:00 pm 8 Penn Manor Tournament 9:00 am 12 Conwell-Egan Catholic 6:00 pm Home 15 Travis Manion Memorial 8:00 am Home Tournament 19 Northeast Catholic 6:00 pm Away 27 Wetzel Tournament Hatboro- Horsham 28 Wetzel Tournament Hatboro- Horsham

HockeyWally MuehlbronnerHead Coach

December

3 St. Mary’s (NY) TBA Abe Stark, NY 4 St. Augustine’s (NJ) 5:00 pm Vineland, NJ 10 Roman Catholic 7:15 pm Grundy 14 St. Joseph’s Prep 8:15 pm U of PA 17 Pope John (NJ) 5:15 pm Skylands, NJ 20 Malvern Prep 8:30 pm Hatfield 26 – 29 Mount St. Charles Academy Rhode Island Holiday Face-Off

Young Alumni Night

La Salle College High School8605 Cheltenham AvenueWyndmoor, Pennsylvania 19038

www.lschs.org

Friday, December 28, 20075:00 to 9:00 PMLa Salle College High SchoolGymnasium and Auditorium

No Admission Will Be Charged

Current Seniors Are invited To Attend

Classes of 2004 to 2008 Watch Sports on the Big Screen in the AuditoriumPlay Basketball in the GymPizza, Hoagies, and Beverages will be Served

The Official Newsletter of La Salle College High School

PresidentBrother Richard Kestler, FSC ’60

PrincipalJoseph L. Marchese

Vice President of Institutional AdvancementGail A. Evans, CFRE

Director of Communications and Public RelationsChristopher M. Carabello ’82

The BelcroftLa Salle College High School8605 Cheltenham AvenueWyndmoor, PA 19038

215 233 2911 phone215 233 1418 faxwww.lschs.org

La Salle College High School 8605 Cheltenham AvenueWyndmoor, Pennsylvania 19038

www.lschs.org

Return Service RequestedFirst Class Mail

First Class MailThe Belcroft is published by La Salle College High School during the months of September through September.

The Belcroft welcomes articles and submissions from the entire La Salle Community. The deadline for submissions is the fifteenth day of themonth prior to the date of publication. All submissions received after the fifteenth of the month will not be included in the upcoming issue; rather, will be considered for inclusion in a future issue.

The Editor of the The Belcroft reserves the right to make all decisions regarding the content and layout of the newsletter.

December 2007Volume SeventeenNumber 4

Calendar of Events December 2007 1 Entrance Exam 8:30 am SAT I and II

2 Christmas Shopping Spectacular 12:00 pm

3 Junior Urban Challenge

5 Junior Ring Mass 7:15 pm

6 Mothers’ Club Meeting 9:15 am Men of La Salle Meeting 6:30 pm

8 Feast of the Immaculate Conception ACT

9 Band Christmas Concert 7:15 pm

11 Kairos 37-59 Alumni Board Meeting 7:30 pm

12 Board of Trustees Meeting 3:15 pm

17 Choral Christmas Concert 7:30 pm

21 Christmas Liturgy Christmas Recess Begins 12:00 pm

24 Secret Santa

25 Christmas Day

28 Young Alumni Night 5:00 pm

Merry ChristmasFeliz Navidad

Frohe Weihnachten

Natale Allegro

Joyeux Noël

Vrolijke Kerstmis

Christmas Alegre