Fall 2016 • Vol. 35 • No. 4

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

Giving and Gratitude by Michelle Weiner ‘76

Lane Tech TODAYNewsletter of the Lane Tech Alumni Association

This spring, sixteen hard-working Lane Tech seniors were awarded scholarships ranging from $2,000 to $40,000

thanks to the generosity of alumni donors, their families and our hard-working LTAA staff. Depending on their school of choice, some students will have an enormous financial burden lifted off their shoulders. For others, their LTAA Scholarship could simply mean the difference between staying on campus… or being with their family during the holidays. The most important thing about the scholarships administered by the LTAA is that they are “all in the family”. Given by alumni to future alumni… modeling the philanthropic behavior that we hope will be paid forward for generations to come. Since the inception of the LTAA program, we have distributed $1.5 million dollars in scholarships! Thank you to our scholarship donors and the LTAA administrative staff for making this important initiative grow over the years.

Right before Thanksgiving, Lane Tech teachers were awarded more than $20,000 in grant money for innovative programs and student enrichment experiences that will contribute to Lane’s reputation for excellence. We will invigorate the idea of shop classes by funding projects in the Makers Lab and help continue the tradition of athletic dominance with grants to track and field, swimming, lacrosse, baseball and volleyball. Your dollars will fund costumes for actors in the spring musical, lab equipment for scientists and allow budding lawyers and criminal justice professionals to visit court at 26th and California and compete in mock trial. Thank you to our donors and the LTAA Grants Committee for their execution of this amazing program that has gifted $160,000 to the talented teachers and deserving students at Lane.

In the past, the LTAA has funded special projects at Lane including the Aquaponics Lab, the Media Center and the Library. This year we are embarking on the most ambitious project yet, assuming the lead on the innovative and much-needed Sensory Room. This unique project will further solidify Lane as a center of excellence not just for skilled athletes, elite scholars or gifted musicians… but for ALL students who wish

to be counted among our Champions, including students in special education. Thank you to the Lane Tech faculty and staff, HKS Architects and the growing army of donors who we hope will make this dream a reality!

This fall we assisted eight different classes in planning for, and facilitating successful class reunions. From supplying mailing lists and coordinating tours, to speaking at events, the LTAA has worked in earnest to improve the quality of class reunions and encourage alumni to connect in meaningful ways. If not reunions, Laneites can come together though this newsletter, social media, at school activities, Clocktower Club meet ups, Professional Day, and for the first time, at destination events when we meet in Mesa Arizona for a Spring Training Clocktower Club on February 27, 2017! Thank you to all of the reunion committee members, Clocktower Club attendees, Golf or Baseball participants, Professional Day volunteers and generally engaged alumni!

We will not be sending out year-end appeal letters to our members this December. This issue of the newsletter IS your year-end appeal. Please… remember the honor of Lane and help us continue the mission of supporting academics, making connections and practicing philanthropy by making a donation to the LTAA before December 31st.

Alumni Association NewsletterVol. 35 • No. 4

Fall 2016

Editors Mary Beth Ficht

Michelle Weiner ‘76

Contributing Editors Grant Martin ‘63

Kevin Sheldon ‘75

Production Managers Jeff Juhasz ‘76

Steve Juhasz ‘75

Copy Editor Patrick Kasch

Production Team Brian Dolan ‘86 Fullline Printing

Telephone: 773-935-9351

Fax: 773-935-4570Toll-Free: 877-935-ALUM (2586)

Visit the LTAA website atwww.lanetechalumni.org

e-mail: alumnioffice@lanetechalumni.org

Visit Lane Tech’s website atwww.lanetech.org

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

Newsletter Editor Lane Tech Alumni Association 3525 West Peterson Avenue, #105 Chicago, Illinois 60659-3314

Mailing Address: P.O. Box 18200 Chicago, Illinois 60618-0200

Email: alumnioffice@lanetechalumni.org

President’s Message Michelle Weiner ‘76

Greetings Fellow Alumni,

Expressions of gratitude abound this time of year, but nearing the end of 2016, the Alumni Association finds itself thanking two special people in particular.

Our Executive Director, Barbara Cook, retired after twenty years of service to the LTAA effective November 30th. Barbara has been instrumental in establishing our organizational standards and our hallmark scholarship program, as well as managing the day-to-day activities of the Alumni Office. All of this has been accomplished after already retiring from a long and storied career in education at Northeastern Illinois University. Quite an encore career!

Mary Beth Ficht, our Program Director, accepted a full-time position with another non-profit beginning December 1st. This will be a phenomenal opportunity for Mary Beth, and although we will miss her focus on this publication and her enthusiasm for programs like Professional Day, we know that this is an important step in her professional development and wish her every success.

So thank you, Barbara and Mary Beth, for putting so much of your heart and soul into the Lane Tech Alumni Association. We are a better organization because of you!

Best regards, Michelle (Milkovic) Weiner, ‘76 President, LTAA

Lane Tech Alumni Association Board of Directors

President Michelle Weiner ‘76Vice President Jim Guerin ‘72Treasurer Kim Kidd ‘73Secretary Deidre Baumann ‘85 Board MembersSherlanda Brooks ‘87 Stuart Eng ‘85 Past PresidentFred Glure ‘63Dennis Hammer ‘71 Past President Joseph Lawniczak ‘69 Avrom Litin ‘83 Sharon Manjack ‘77 Tod McElhaney ‘83 Angela Olah ‘04 Jill Rzadzki ‘91 Maurel Samonte ‘86 Kevin Sheldon, ‘75 Marion Synowiec ‘64 Past President

Board of Directors 2017 Meetings Schedule

January 26, 2017March 23, 2017May 25, 2017July, 2017 October, 2017

Meeting locations and times vary. Please check with the alumni office for details.

Newsletter Deadlines

Winter Issue January 15 Spring Issue April 15 Summer Issue July 15

Mail to: Newsletter Editor Lane Tech Alumni Association, Inc. 3525 West Peterson Avenue, #105 Chicago, Illinois 60659-3314Mailing Address: P.O. Box 18200 Chicago, Illinois 60618-0200alumnioffice@lanetechalumni.org

President’s Message ...............................2Principal’s Message ................................3Reunions .................................................3Walking Down Memory Lane ................4-5Alumni News ...........................................6

Inside 2501 .............................................8Champion-Makers ...................................9Alumni Spotlight ....................................10In Memoriam ......................................... 11Backwards Glance ................................12

Table of Contents

Fall 2016 • 3

Principal’s Message Brian Tennison

Dear Alumni,

I would first like to thank you for inviting me to participate by providing a brief Principal’s message. As I sit here I am preparing for our open house tomorrow to welcome a new

generation of interest in our school community. The deep and meaningful significance of the bridge between the conversations that I will have with our future tomorrow and writing this letter to our living history is not lost on me. I walked through our halls yesterday and proudly viewed your plaques of accomplishments newly hung in our halls that had been removed because of our two years of renovations. They are proudly clustered in groups to create the visual focal impact that they deserve.

Our future is truly bright! Last night was our second annual “Halloween Hauntcert.” Even though the Cubs were in the World Series only blocks away, our students showed up to play band and orchestral music for families and their young children. This is only one example of the character of commitment by our students. Furthermore, we have our fall play next week (Romeo and Juliet)—I

am sure you fondly remember seeing music and theater during your time at Lane. Also, we opened our Art Show this last week to provide our students the opportunity to display their works of creation. Our many opportunities in arts is a tradition that continues.

Our athletic teams continue to excel. Our Boys Soccer team won the City Championship and performed strongly in State sectional playoffs finally losing to the number two team in the State—but it was close 3-2! The Girls swimming team won the City Championship in Relays. In Girls Tennis we had a State finalist. The Cross Country team competed in the IHSA sectionals. The Girls volleyball team made it to City Championships. We are very busy and getting ready for winter sports!

As I sign off, I would like to express my excitement at being the principal of Lane. It is my goal to appreciate our history and prepare for the future. I look forward to meeting many of you over the next few years.

Brian Tennison Principal, Lane Tech College Prep High School

Lane Tech 1949ers +/-Date & Time: second Thursday of the month in March, June, September & December at 11:30 Location Elks Club in Des Plaines, IL Information: The group welcomes any Lane Tech graduates to attend their quarterly lunchtime meet ups at the Elks Club in Des Plaines, IL. Contact the Alumni Association for details.

The Class of 1957Date & Time: Fall 2017 Information: Planning is underway for all classes of 1957! Interested classmates can contact Allen Ciesiel at: awciesiel@msn.com.

The Classes of 1962Date & Time: 2017 Information: Classmates Tom Muraoka, John Kowalski and Tom Swierzynski are spearheading a 55th reunion for 2017. More information can be found at: lanetechreunion62.63@gmail.com.

Class of 1967Date & Time: October 6-7, 2017 Information: Ed Ciecka, Al Pavin, Dennis Tomaska and Donald Tomaska are planning a 50th reunion including a Friday evening mixer, a tour of the school and a Saturday evening banquet at the Holiday Inn Express located at 6600 N. Mannheim Rd., Chicago. For more details, please email LaneTech67_50th@yahoo.com.

Class of 1987Date & Time: September 2017 Information: Fellow classmates Dominic Listermann, Michelle England Pedroso, Shaggy Morris, Gracie Rivera Scambiatterra and Angie Finely are planning a 30th reunion for 2017. For more information, please email: LT8730TH@gmail.com or go to Facebook: lane tech class of 1987-30yr reunion.

Class of 1988Date & Time: 2018Information: Calling all 1988 alumni! Plans are being made for an epic 30th Class Reunion. Join the Facebook page LTHS-c/o88 for updates or email Adrienne Reaves at docreaves@gmail.com

Class of 1997Date & Time: September 9, 2017 Information: Plans are being made for a 20th reunion for September 2017. Be on the lookout for more information in future newsletter issues or contact the Alumni Office.

Class of 2007Date & Time: Saturday, July 22 Location: Lakeshore Sports & Fitness-Downtown Chicago Cost: $65.00 (Early Bird price) Tickets go on sale Jan. 1st, 2017 Information: Fellow class officers are planning the 10-year reunion. It will be a rooftop venue with open bar, food and games. For more information, join the Facebook Group page: facebook.com/LTCCO07 or email: LT07.Reunion@gmail.com

If you are interested in organizing a reunion, please contact the Alumni Association at: alumnioffice@lanetechalumni.org or (773) 935-9351 for details.

Reunions

Walking DoWn MeMory lane

1956 John Burzinski and Bob LichtenvoortThe 60th Reunion of the Classes of 1956 was held September 21-23. The three day event started Wednesday with a tour of the old, but new school including comments from the recently appointed Principal Mr. Brian Tennison and by Assistant Principal Edwina Thompson. No more shops that kept us young boys active for four years. Now, it is advanced technology 3-D printing, advanced Graphics and Robotics, that are preparing Laneites for the modern world. That evening we (40 classmates) attended a Cubs game - great upper deck seats- great weather and the Cubs beat the Reds 7-2. How nice is that? The Reunion Dinner was held at the White Eagle. Another success! 95 attended. Brief comments by LTAA President, Michelle Weiner - who gave more of an insight of what is happening at the school. Executive Director Barbara Cook of the Alumni Association informed us of the continuing work the LTAA is doing for us as grads and the scholarships that are being awarded on our behalf. Tony Baumstark, VP from the June class of 1956 spoke about some of the changes of the past 60 years. WOW! After the speeches, first was the singing of the school song (back-ground provided by the DJ) and then some 50s music to listen to, reminisce to, and dance to by DJ and vocalist Joe Brigante. The conversation, smiles, handshakes, hugs were contagious. Friday was Lane’s Homecoming game. Nice night for football. Lane played Curie but lost. That was the sad ending of our three day gala affair. The reunion was a time to renew some old acquaintances, walk through the halls of Lane and see progress and we are all thankful for that.

A special thanks to Anita Lichtenvoort who dedicated many hours to the success of this reunion.

The Lane Tech Alumni Association would like to thank the Classes of 1956 for their generous gift to the association!

1966 & 67 Alan Halfen, June 1966“Life is what happens to you while you’re busy making other plans.” -John Lennon

Well as far as 130 Lane brothers of graduating classes January ‘66, June ‘66 and January ‘67 were concerned, their plans

focused upon their 50-year reunion which occurred October 15, 2016. Reunion Saturday began with a 2-hour school tour attended by 80 graduates and guests. Smiles, laughter and damp eyes were everywhere to be seen, including my own. The school and the Lane Tech Alumni Office Staff could not have been more accommodating.

The evening event was held at White Eagle Banquets, in Niles, IL. There were 200 in attendance for dinner. The food and accommodations were wonderful, and the camaraderie was out of this world. Thank you to everyone who attended, helped out and donated, especially, Leonard Roberts January ‘67 and Michael Triplett, June ‘66.

1971 Phil Koehl

On Saturday, October 8th, members of the Class of 1971 held their 45th-year reunion. The day started with a tour of Lane where classmates were amazed at how much the building had changed in the last 45 years. Gone are shops making way for classrooms that can accommodate more current subjects. It still had the feel of the school they all remembered fondly. The tour elicited some interesting stories. The fellowship and storytelling continued at the Des Plaines Elk Lodge over dinner and drinks. Ken Larson and Craig Matuszewski met classmates at the door. After everyone arrived, Phil (Mlady) Koehl and Wally Walejeski attempted to orchestrate a group photo at which point an impromptu rendition of “Go Lane Go” broke out. Phil offered a humorous welcome and introduced 2 ambassadors from the Alumni Association, Jesus Mata (’95) and Joanna M. Perez (’95). Classmates listened attentively while they discussed the many benefits of joining. During dinner, the room was alive with friendly banter, hilarious laughter, and many stories. It seems that this is the part of the Reunions which our Classmates seem to enjoy the most. Those attending thanked the organizers, Wally Walejeski, Craig Matuszewski, Ken Larson, Bruce Rapa, Phil (Mlady) Koehl, and Jim Skinner for all their hard work. These same 6 classmates have organized the 30th and 40th Reunion with help from other Class of 1971 alumni. Plans are already underway for the “Golden” 50th Reunion in 2021. Tentative plans are for attending a Friday Lane football game, a Saturday school tour and dinner dance, and a Sunday brunch. If you are a member of the Class of 1971, join the Alumni Association and check out the Class’ Facebook page so you can keep updated as plans take fruition.

4 • Lane Tech Today

1976 Andrew Flor

The Lane Tech Class of 1976 held its 40th class reunion this fall on Homecoming weekend. The activities included the Lane vs. Curie Homecoming Game on Friday night in front of a packed house at the stadium, where we were all together last for our graduation commencement. Several varsity football players were on hand to cheer our team on, and part of the Class of ‘76 got together after at Pete’s Pizza to continue the Friday night festivities. The following morning, about 120 classmates took a walk down memory lane to see updates at the school, reunite with old friends, and make new ones. Highlights of the tour included the WPA murals, the showpiece Memorial Garden and last but not least Hero’s sandwiches eaten al fresco on the Auditorium stairs where we could recount the morning’s activities. The main event on Saturday evening was held at Ridgemoor Country Club, and was enjoyed by 100-plus bicentennials and three teachers from our days at Lane, Mr. Szalinski, Mr. Simms and Mr. Monteleone, who led us in a rousing version of Go Lane Go! A major hit of the evening were the tables filled with memorabilia from our years at Lane including yearbooks, Lane Daily clippings, Tech Prep Magazines, shop projects, gym uniforms, school sweaters and even one of the clock tower hands made an appearance, (we plead the 5th). Adding to the experience was a life-sized clocktower photo backdrop, a video version of the 1976 yearbook, Lane Tech swag giveaways and an incredible playlist of music from our era. The highlight of the evening was the official Reunion photo taken by classmate and professional photographer Kevin O. Mooney, who skillfully choreographed the rambunctious group into a respectable pose, including himself! We can’t wait for our 45th!!!

1986 John Minas

Just as with many of you, Albert G Lane Technical High School holds a special place in my heart. Some of our the greatest memories and friendships created are due to the “Powerhouse on Addison”, whether it be our march down Addison Street to Wrigley Field for Lane’s Jubilee Anniversary, the cold January at Soldier Field when Lane Football took City, or participation in International Days. We recently created new memories as the Class of 1986 celebrated our 30th Anniversary over the weekend of September 16-17, 2016. It was a great time for all! The weekend began with a Chicago Cubs game on Friday when they clinched the National League Central Division Championship with pregame and postgame parties at Cubby Bear and Casey Moran’s. Saturday included a morning tour of the school and garden followed by lunch at Hero’s Submarine Shop. It is still so good! The evening included a night of fun, music, dancing and socializing as we partied at the Wydnam Grand Hotel on Chicago’s river front. The rooftop deck was perfect for tons of pictures!

Our Reunion Steering Committee would like to thank those classmates that were able to attend as well as those that could not but sent well wishes, posted photos and purchased t-shirts. A special shout out to our former teachers, Edmund Baumann and Howard Heath, and Coaches Charles Ginsberg, John Lewis, and Jessie Siebert who attended. Hope to see you all soon. GO LANE GO!

Clocktower Club Arizona Dirk Hacker, ‘85Our Lane Tech Alumni are proud to show their Myrtle & Gold in the Southwest, USA! An energetic group of over 20 alumni and family gathered for a fall AZ Clocktower Club dinner at Lou Malnati’s Pizza on

October 12th. Yes, there is now deep-dish pizza in Phoenix, AZ! Alumni from the 1950’s through the 1990’s attended… a few with their high-school sweethearts. In Phoenix we also have an active group of several 1970’s alumni...those who remember Lane before it became co-ed and those who welcomed the change to include ladies. There is much to celebrate in the southwest with the recent opening of Lou Malnati’s pizza and a Chicago Cubs championship team. A friendly time was enjoyed by all...the only “heated” debate seemed to be what the best toppings for Chicago pizza are. We look forward to another AZ Clocktower gathering in Spring, 2017. If any Lane alumni would like to receive email announcements of Arizona events...watch the Lane Tech Alumni website or contact the Alumni Office to receive email announcements.

The Alumni Association would like to recognize Dirk Hacker (‘85.) for his tireless efforts to mobilize classmates in the Grand Canyon State!

2006 Leticia RosaThe Class of 2006 celebrated their 10-Year Reunion on Saturday, September 24. There were 100+ individuals in attendance and everyone had a great time catching up with old classmates, hitting up the photo booth, and gettin’ down on the dance floor. The planning committee would like to express their immense gratitude to everyone who attended.

Pictures of the event can be viewed at: https://www.facebook.com/LaneTechClass2006/photos/

Fall 2016 • 5

6 • Lane Tech Today

‘42Jurgen Schmidt was inducted into the 2015 Huntsman World Senior Games Hall of Fame in St. George, Utah. Jurgen has been a swimmer for most of his life as a lifeguard, Red Cross swimming instructor, and a member of the Navy. He has participated in the Huntsman World Senior Games for 18 years, and has won many events at the Games, collecting over 100 medals, (96 of them Gold!). Jurgen holds records in the 85-89 age group in the 200, 800 and 1500 meter free style. He also holds records in the 90-94 age group in the 200, 400, and 800 meter free style. His enthusiasm and dedication to the sport of swimming is boundless, and he is now a spokesman for Speedo. He was featured in the online video campaign “Fueled by Water”, and has been featured in USA TODAY.

‘49At the June meeting of the Lane Tech ‘49ers, Wally Wenzel was pre-sented with an award for his leadership and dedication for the past seven years. Wally has been instrumental in not only holding the group together, but for increasing the attendance which now numbers fifty at each of the quarterly gatherings. The group, begun by Harry Schneider, started in May, 2001 with just 13 members. The Alumni Asso-ciation would like to extend a special note of thanks to the 49ers club. In addition to their commitment to fellowship, they are regular donors to the alumni association whose cumulative gift to the LTAA is $2845.00. Thank you Lane Tech 49ers!

‘50This past September, Joseph Yi was honored for his service in the Korean War as a participant in the Honor Flight Chicago program. The Honor Flight Chicago’s motto is; “Bringing Chicago’s WWII and Korean War Vets to DC with Honor”. Joseph and fellow veterans took the one day trip from Midway airport to Washington DC where they visited the World War II Memorial and Korean War Memorial. Joseph was a Marine in the Korean War. He was born in Seoul, Korea and came to the United States at the age of ten. After graduating from Lane, he attended University of Illinois to study engineering where he was ‘voluntarily drafted’ as a Marine. In May 1953, Joe was assigned to Munsan-Ni to support the exchange of prisoners with North Korea. He was on the Prisoner Receiving Team, composed of both American and Korean marines and was the head interpreter at the prison receiving point. Joe currently resides in Des Plaines, IL with his wife. He is a father of two and a member of the Republic of Korea Reunification Advisory Council and is very active in the VFW and Des Plaines Zoning and Planning Board.

‘54Ole Lorenzetti is enjoying his retirement and still pursuing his sport activities of scuba diving, kayaking, triathlons and half marathons as well as taking bike tours all over the world. Ole currently resides in Fort Worth, TX.

‘67Neal Gabler was recently interviewed on PBS about the cover article he wrote for the May issue of the Atlantic Monthly entitled “The Secret Shame of Middle Class Americans” about financial fragility in the United States. Neal is an award-winning writer and film critic who along with Jeffrey Lyons, comprised the first team to replace Siskel & Ebert on “Sneak Previews”. He is currently a visiting professor at the State University of New York, Stony Brook. He has written five books related to the film industry and is currently writing a biography of Ted Kennedy. Neal is also a regular contributor to major publications and television shows. http://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2016/05/my-secret-shame/476415/

‘69Fred Ruby is Vice President/Senior Project Manager of Enterprise Project Solutions at Union Bank, a retail arm of Mitsubishi Union Financial Group, Monterey Park, CA. His role at MUFG is to preside over efforts that install new IT infrastructure to house existing and newly launched technology applications and knowledge systems. When his not overseeing projects at MUFG, Fred is busy visiting his six grandchildren in the Los Angeles area and his two other grandchildrenin New Zealand.

‘86-‘01

It looks like the city of Joliet is in very capable hands with Laneites from three decades serving and protecting!

aluMni neWs

L-R: Harry Schneider, Wally Wenzel and Jack Leese

Fred Ruby, pictured left with his wife, Cindy at Niagara Falls.

L-R: Pete Van Gessel (1986), Olga Rzepka (2001), and Moises Avila (1991).

November 2016 • 7

The LTAA extends a hearty thank you to those members who have contributed to the campaign to fund the “first-of-its-

kind” Sensory Room at Lane Tech! Loyal Lane alums of all ages, from near and far, have raised their voices in encouragement for the project and opened their wallets to demonstrate support. Jordan Ginsburg, ’14 sent along a message with her donation, “I am currently a student at the University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana studying to be a pediatric OT for children with special needs due to my involvement with P.E. Leaders in high school. I recently saw that you are fundraising to build a sensory room and I think that is incredible.” Other alums are donating as groups. The Class of 1956 was the first in with a donation of $500, while the Class of 1976 is catching up with a cumulative tally of $350 at this writing. “As the CFO for a world class organization dedicated to serving individuals/families with Autism and other Developmental Disabilities, and a member of the California Association of Private Special Education Schools, this initiative makes me a bit more proud (if that is possible) to be an alumnus of such a forward thinking public school. Great,

great work. Thank-you.” writes Joe Michalowski, ’76.

But our work is not nearly done. We need many more donations in order to make this room a reality and provide some of the bravest students at Lane with the supports they need to earn their rightful place in the School of Champions. This therapeutic room will provide a user-controlled environment resulting in increased concentration and focused attention. It will help students develop or reactivate senses of hearing, sight, and touch, heighten awareness and improve alertness. Components of the Sensory Room can also improve coordination and motor development, and promote cognitive development by increased brain function. It will also encourage hand and eye coordination, and the development of social and language skills.

Please go to http://lanetechalumni.org/sensory.php to make a donation. Help us see this special space become a reality and continue to keep Lane Tech on the cutting edge of education for ALL students!

Here’s a Smart Idea!The Alumni Association would like to thank those who have made donations in support of our programs or in memory of a fellow classmate or teacher. Recently Shirley Dolack made a generous donation to the LTAA in memory of her husband, Joe Dolack (’40). Please know there are more options for you to give to the Alumni Association. Online Giving at www.lanetechalumni.orgClick on the “Donate” button on the home page. You may donate to Lane Tech Alumni Association using your Visa, MasterCard, Discover or American Express.Personal Check Or consider making a personal, business or foundation gift via check. Please send checks payable to: Lane Tech Alumni Association P.O. Box 18200 Chicago, IL 60618Stocks, Bonds and Planned Giving Learn how you can continue the legacy of excellence at Lane though estate planning or the gift of appreciated stocks, bonds or annuities. Matching Gifts Why send one student to college when you could send two? Discover the power of matching gifts through your employer.For inquiries about any of these giving options, please contact the Alumni Office at (773) 935-9351 between 9am and 2pm or email lanetechalumni@gmail.com.

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YA Feel Good Project!

Inside 2501

A snapshot of what’s happening at Lane today

8 • Lane Tech Today

On Wednesday, November 9th, the section of Rockwell Street that runs along the western edge of the Lane Tech campus was renamed in honor of former football coach, Sam Bronswick who died earlier this year. An Illinois State High School Football Coaches Hall of Fame inductee, Bronswick coached at Lane from 1978-1993 earning a 114-40 record and a City Championship in 1985. The “Sam Bronswick Way” dedication was attended by Bronswick family members, school administration, alderman Pewar, friends and alumni.

Lane was ranked 8th in the recently published “2017 Best High Schools in Chicago-Metro” by Niche.com. This review is based on academics, culture, staff, and student outcomes. To read more go to:https://k12.niche.com/rankings/public-high-schools/best-overall/m/chicago-metro-area/

The editorial staff of the Lane newspaper, “The Warrior” made the following announcement on November 1st: The Editorial Board of The Warrior has decided to remove all Native American imagery from the logos of our newspaper. In the past, we have had an “Indian” head in the “O” of the Warrior logo, and above the staff box on Page 2. We believe these illustrations are insensitive to the Native American community and are not representative of the direction of our publication. Moving forward, we will be redesigning these logos to more accurately embody the Lane community and continue our over 100 years’ tradition of excellence. As always, we welcome feedback and suggestions from our readers at feedback@lanewarrior.com.

David Bell was hired as Lane Tech Assistant Principal this fall. Prior to his arrival at Lane, Bell was an Assistant Principal at Taft High School for two years, and taught at Whitney Young for ten years. His administrative duties include academic infrastructure, curriculum, instruction, safety and security. Welcome David Bell!

On October 10th, the Boys Varsity soccer team won the city championship over Taft in penalty kicks after a 2-2 tie. They ended the season with a 15-1-2 record.

Congratulations to Hallie Leblebijian of the girls’ tennis team. Leblebijian finished third at the IHSA state sectional match and advanced to the IHSA finals.

Senior Maggie Scholle won her 3rd consecutive Cross Country City Championship at Washington Park on Saturday, October 18th with a time of18:00. Senior Jason Rivera and Sophomore Julian Higueros paced the varsity boys to a 3rd place team finish covering the 3 mile course in 15:53 and 15:55 respectively.

Say it ain’t so! Our beloved Hero’s Subs has been on the real estate market since last spring but no takers despite a couple of price reductions. When asked about the potential sale, Hero’s staff practices expert deflection but all the signs point to the northwest corner of Addison and Western turning into something soul-crushing like another mattress store. Better get your subs while you can folks! http://jamesoncommercial.com/properties.cfm/?propertyId=179028-sale

It was a battle of offensive strategies on November 22nd, at the annual Lane Tech Turkey Bowl. Students and faculty braved the chilly winds to cheer on their favorite players and in the end, the faculty prevailed in a 42-35 victory. Physical Education teacher Gregg Mitchell was named Turkey Bowl MVP in what has become a traditional kickoff to Thanksgiving and the holiday season. Either way, Lane wins!

Fall 2016 • 9

ChaMpion-Makers

Profiles of the impressive faculty and staff at Lane Tech

Let’s imagine science teacher Karen Trine were a chemical compound… combine the cumulative effects of growing up near the Mississippi River, a school-age move to the Chicago suburbs, and then Boston College on a Division 1 volleyball scholarship. Add to that the element of a four-year experience in the Peace Corp in West Africa and China. Then throw Lane Tech into the mix and BAM! It may not be a true chemical reaction but the result creates quite a bit of energy! Since 2007, Karen has delivered her special brand of energy to Lane Tech’s science department and her cultural experiences to its students. Currently she is the lead teacher for the Honors Chemistry team, a union delegate, former Instructional Leadership Team member, and co-sponsor along with Christina Clemons of the extracurricular Club called “BuildOn”.

Ms. Trine was approached by Sanya Khatri, ’16 (see our summer issue for a profile on LTAA Aves Scholarship recipient Khatri), after a family trip to India where she witnessed extreme poverty and educational inequality. Sanya had done her research and had targeted nationally recognized BuildOn as a partner organization for a club at Lane Tech. With the BuildOn engine, students at Lane would be able to make a difference in the lives of boys and girls from other countries where they had no chance to go to school, but as with any other Lane Tech Club, they would need a faculty sponsor. Karen Trine’s organizational skills, her experience in the Peace Corp and her ability to relate to students made her a natural fit. In the first year and a half, Lane’s BuildOn club was able to rally the community and raise $20,000! That money was pooled with another high school BuildOn club, and the village of Boulguin in Burkina Faso now has a brand new primary school where 260 brave children can learn in a safe, clean environment.

“I find that our kids are hungering for meaning in todays over-commercialized world and they see BuildOn as a way to give back and meet other students who are striving to make a difference in others’ lives”, offers Trine. “This school never ceases to amaze me, because

it isn’t just our club, there’s so many others that have been dreamed up by students trying to right a wrong or lend a helping hand.” Indeed, the efforts of this club and many others like it contribute to the Lane Tech culture of service, and inspire organizations like the LTAA to continue to do the same. Champion-maker Karen Trine adds, “I have great faith in the talents and hearts of our city’s young people. I only hope they do not grow jaded and forget that all things are possible with hard work. The quote we chose for our club T-shirt really says it all.”

“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’” -Martin Luther King, Jr.

https://act.buildon.org/team/96371

The students and teachers of Burkina Faso pose in front of their old school before construction

Lane Tech students at a BuidOn fundraising event in 2016 (Karen Trine far right back row)

aluMni spotlight

John Kabot ‘64

After graduating from Lane, John attended the University of Illinois-Chicago, earning a BA in Communications Design in 1969 and a BA in Plastic & Graphic Arts in 1970. From there he joined

the military where he continued his education graduating from the German program at the USA Defense Language Institute in 1980. Then in 1985 he received his MSEd from the University of Southern California. John served with the US Military Liaison Mission, Potsdam; 101st Airborne Division Fort Campbell; 18th Airborne Corps Fort Bragg and various Intelligence and Security Command units. Since retiring in 1995, he has lived a quiet and creative life in rural Wisconsin where he makes contemporary art collage and assemblages, exhibiting in juried shows throughout the country. John contacted the alumni office in 2014 expressing an interest in establishing a scholarship for Lane Tech students pursuing art as a field of study. Since then, his generosity has assisted two budding artists in realizing their college goals!

LTAA: What was your academic focus while at Lane?JK: During my years at Lane Tech I majored in commercial art via the College Prep track.

LTAA: What lessons did you learn at Lane that shaped who you are today?JK: The most valuable lessons learned were the use of ‘hands on’ technical applications such as drafting, typography, color analysis (four color separation) and all aspects of visual and graphic design. This approach to art made an easy transition into college at the UIC, where the curriculum was based on the Bauhaus ideal of practical application.

LTAA: Can you recall a favorite teacher or class?JK: My most influential teachers were Mr. Sims, print shop, Mr. T. Szalinski and Mr. A. Topp, art and Mr. J. Graff, English and advisor of the Mask & Shears Club.

LTAA: You have recently created a scholarship for Lane seniors focused on the arts. What compelled you to make that gesture?JK: I am sure several of my classmates at Lane would have been able to continue their education if financial assistance, specifically directed at the arts, were available. Why not make it available now?

LTAA: Any last thoughts?JK: The receipt of any scholarship goes a long way in attaining additional awards or grants in the future no matter how small the first one is. They can have beneficial effects greater than their initial monetary value.

10 • Lane Tech Today

BARBARA AND MARY BETHIN RECOGNITION FOR ALLYOU HAVE DONE…

The Board of Directors of theLane Tech Alumni Association

extend their thanks toBarbara Cook and Mary Beth Ficht

for their service to the LTAA,and to the community of Lane Tech

THANK YOU!

Fall 2016 • 11

Richard Amodeo (’69)Robert Blagojevich (’73)Richard Bogdanovich (’62)William Kearns (’77)Michael Kochan (’84)

Dr. Vesna Markovic (’92)Joe Megacz (’67)Susan A. Nakamura (’86)Michael Salerno (’78)

Thank You Life Members!The LTAA is grateful to the following alumni who invested in Life Memberships in 2016.

In Memoriam

1930-1939George W. Gulbrandsen (’34) 9/26/15Alvin W. Meers, (’37) 11/26/16

1940-1949Joseph Dolack (’40) 11/1/16George A. Mc Namara (’40) 6/2016Richard Lunardini (’45) 8/31/16Clifford Mason (’45) 8/29/16Edward Socieszczyk (’45) 10/7/16Dale Elroy Parr (’46) 6/14/16Ronald Dirsmith (’49) 8/26/16

1950-1959R. Bruce Glass (’54) 7/7/16Richard Heinke (’55) 7/28/16James D. Olson (’56) 8/2016Edward Branske (’58) 9/29/16Raymond H. Johnson (’58) 11/10/16

1960-1969 Robert A. Dudek (’60) 6/6/16Christ Schwelle (’60) 8/19/16Walter Gwazdacz (’62) 10-2016James E. Marth (’68) 8/20/16

1970-1979Steven J. Bliss (’71) 2014John W. Jenssen (’71) 1/24/16Brian W. Johnson (’78) 9/1/16

1980-1989Georgette Mella Luttrell (’87) 11/3/16

2010-PresentAaron Bennett (’15) 10/29/16

Thank you to the family of Joseph Dolack, ’40 who generously directed that tributes to Joseph be sent to the Lane Tech Alumni Association.

It is with a heavy heart that we acknowledge the tragic and senseless death of 19-year old Aaron Bennett, who was shot during a traffic altercation in the Belmont Cragin neighborhood on October 29th. Aaron was a track and field stand out and member of the marching band. We extend our collective condolences to his family, friends, teachers and coaches.

HOLIDAY GREETINGSFROM THELTAA

HOLIDAY GREETINGSFROM THELTAA

MYRTLE(MYRTUS CUMMUNIS)

CorrectionsThe last issue of Lane Tech Today announced scholarship winners for 2015 when in fact these were proud graduates of the Class of 2016, and the Wiesniewski Scholarship is actually the Wisniewski Scholarship. Sorry Tom, and thank you for your generous donation to the LTAA Scholarship Program!

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Backwards Glance

“We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.”

― Winston S. Churchill

Lane Tech volunteers for Lion’s Club Candy Days. October 1975