CELEBRAT ING150 YEARS

La Salle College High School 8605 Cheltenham AvenueWyndmoor, Pennsylvania 19038

www.lschs.org

January 2008Volume Seventeen Number 5

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 Honorable Gus Cifelli ’43 who as a football player was on three undefeated national championship teams at Notre Dame and led the Detroit Lions to the NFL Championship in 1952. He was awarded the Purple Heart for combat in the Pacific Theater during World War II and is a respected and distinguished lawyer and Chief Trial Judge for the District Court of Michigan. He has received numerous awards including Italian Man of the Year and the Eleanor Roosevelt Humanitarian Award.

Dear Parents and Guardians,

This is the first letter that I have written for 2008, and yes, it once again seems strange. We are now seven years beyond the famous “2001 Space Odyssey” and its portrayal of the future. Many of the predictions have come and gone, while others still await the future. I hope that 2008 is a year filled with peace, especially among the nations of the world. This alone would be a remarkable gift from the Prince of Peace. May you and your loved ones enjoy success and health in the New Year.

January will find our sports teams deep in their schedules. With the holidays now behind us, I invite you to take some time to enjoy the athletic talent of our La Salle teams and enjoy the opportunity to meet other La Salle families. Our teams have gotten off to a great start and should provide a great deal of excitement in the coming months. Best wishes to our coaches and players.

Our students will have the opportunity to demonstrate the mastery of their academic courses when they take exams later this month. The results of these exams will play an important role in the “record” they are building for college applications. I encourage you to discuss with your son(s) the opportunity as well as the challenges of the exam period.

With many of our nation’s states beginning to discuss right to life as well as death penalty issues, I am planning to join our student Right to Life Club at the annual March on Washington, which marks the anniversary of Roe vs. Wade on January 22, 2008. For the past two years, it has been my pleasure to join these boys as they engage in the political process. This year, the boys will take part in a special Mass to be celebrated prior to the march at the National Shrine on the campus of Catholic University.

May the Christmas celebrations with family and friends be long remembered into the cold nights of winter that lie ahead.

Happy New Year!

Sincerely yours,

Brother Richard Kestler, FSC ’60 President

Celebrating 150 Years of Teaching Minds and Touching Hearts

Saturday, April 26, 2008The Crystal Tea Room

The Wanamaker BuildingGuest Speaker

Chris Matthews ’63

La Salle College High School 8605 Cheltenham Avenue

Wyndmoor, Pennsylvania 19038

www.lschs.org

3

Office of the PrincipalJoseph L. MarchesePrincipal

Dear Parents and Guardians,

I trust that you had a very Merry Christmas. A new year is upon us and 2008 promises to be a very exciting one for La Salle College High School as our new building and playing fields continue to take shape. On behalf of our faculty and staff, I wish you and your family a very happy and peaceful New Year.

On December 1, 2007, we had a very successful entrance examination with well over 500 boys coming to La Salle for the test. In addition, I am also pleased to announce at the time of this writing, that we have had over 400 candidates come to spend a day at La Salle. We are looking forward to a freshman class of approximately 260. Decision letters will be mailed out on Monday, January 7, 2008.

The end of the Second Quarter and Semester Examinations (January 15–19, 2008) are on the horizon. Our examination schedule is posted on the school’s website. Please note that dismissal time on exam days is different than on normal school days. Generally speaking, students are free to leave when they are finished with their exam(s), but buses hold to their normal pick up time.

With winter upon us, please listen to KYW radio or, better yet, log onto the school website for school closings, delays, or early dismissals. Any school closings or cancellations are posted first on our website. Because La Salle draws from so many school districts, it may be possible that we are open but your school district is closed. In that event, with district busing not an option, please use your own good judgment in deciding whether or not travel to school is safe for your son. Please do not call the school when it is snowing or the when the weather deteriorates. Our staff cannot deliver special messages to your son unless it is an emergency. In cases when school is in session during bad weather, students will be allowed to use their cell phones between classes or during lunch or free periods to make contact with parents regarding travel arrangements.

We are in the midst of our winter sports season. Please come out to support our student-athletes in basketball, bowling, ice hockey, indoor track, swimming, and wrestling. Good luck to our teams and coaches and many thanks to our generous parents and boosters! Like most high school athletic programs, La Salle athletes continue to have sporadic incidences of staph infections. Fortunately, none of these infections have proven to be MRSA. Rest assured that we are doing everything we can from a sanitation perspective. Hand sanitizers have been installed in our locker rooms and our housekeeping crew is using a special disinfectant when cleaning the locker rooms. Our coaches are continually reminding their athletes to shower after practices and games. You can help by making sure to inform our nurses if your son has been seen by a doctor for any sore or pustule on his skin. Mr. Dave Crowe, our Athletic Trainer, continues to be very vigilant in this regard.

Finally, I want to thank Mr. Joe Vettori, Mr. Mark Norman, and Mr. Joe Ciccimaro for the fantastic Instrumental Music and Choral Christmas concerts last month. The music program at La Salle continues to astound me and sets the standard for high school music in the Delaware Valley. Please join me in congratulating them for the way in which they enrich the life of our school.

Happy New Year!

Sincerely yours,

Joseph L. Marchese Principal

4 The Belcroft January

School Closings 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 www.lschs.org. Two TV stations will also carry the information for La Salle – ABC WPVI-6 and WCAU NBC-10. In case of snow during a school day, any 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 in these situations.

Winter DanceThe Winter Date Dance will be held on Friday, January 18, 2008. This event usually brings many students and their dates. Cost for the dance will be $10 per person and includes music and refreshments. Tickets will go on sale the week before the dance. Sports coat or suit, shirt and tie is the dress attire of our male students that evening.

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) to please not use Hawthorne Lane. With young children living in the houses along the street, the residents are concerned for their safety. Thank you for your cooperation.

Thank You From The Admissions Offi ceThe Admissions Offi ce would like to thank all of our parents for their support of La Salle. We are especially grateful for all those parents who helped out at our Open House in November. It was a great day with about 550 families in attendance. On Saturday, December 1, 2007, we administered our Scholarship Entrance Exam to 540 young men. The performance profi le for this group is very good, so we expect to have another great class enter La Salle in the fall. The Admissions Committee will be meeting in early January to fi nalize decisions for the Class of 2012. Letters announcing those decisions will be mailed on Monday, January 7, 2008. We expect to have 260 registered for the Class of 2012 by early February. Again, thanks for all you do to promote La Salle.

Offi ce of Student AffairsJulia K. MaherAssistant Principal for Student Affairs

Campus StoreBarbara WisotzkeyGerry Clark

We hope everyone had a joyous Christmas and a restful break from the daily routine of school.

The Campus Store has all the necessities to start the Second Semester – all required paperbacks for English, Social Studies and Religion. We also have a full supply of stationery as well. The Campus Store will be closed during Mid-Term Examinations ( January 15-18, 2008), so please make sure your sons come prepared with pencils and pens in hand.

We are open daily from 8:00 am to 1:30 pm. “Lost and Found” is also located in a corner of the store and lost items are growing by leaps and bounds. If your son is missing anything, tell him to stop by and check.

Campus MinistryLew ClarkDirector of Campus Ministry

Freshman RetreatThe entire Freshmen Class will be on retreat on January 24, 2008. The retreat will center around the theme of “Lasallian Identity.” The day will include small and large group activities, a class liturgy, small group discussions, and adult and student talks. Freshmen classes will not meet that day. Also, freshmen are required to pack their own lunch on the day of the retreat. Students are expected to be in dress code. Dismissal will be as usual.

Kairos Begins its Eleventh YearFrom October 2-5, 2007, forty-one seniors made Kairos 37-57. The fi rst of six Kairos retreats was once again held at Diamond Ridge Camp in Jamison, PA. The four-day retreat is an opportunity for seniors to refl ect on their relationship with God, self, and others. The retreat was led by seniors Jim Behr, Dan Erhard, J.J. Houldin, Sam Morgan, Mike Rongione, John Shields, and Greg Woods. The adult leaders were Mr. Bloh, Mr. Clark, Mr. Devlin, Mrs. Haggerty, Fr. Janton, Mr. Norman, and Mr. Parisi. Thanks to all those who made the retreat a positive experience.

5

Offi ce of Academic AffairsThomas R. BarnaAssistant Principal for Academic Affairs

Attendance ReminderWith cold and fl u season arriving, there may be days when your son in unable to attend school. La Salle understands this. Please remember an excused absence is one that is due to illness or family emergency. If your son is absent he should be proactive and contact a reliable classmate the night of the absence and/or communicating with the teacher at the earliest convenient time. Absent students are responsible for missed work.

On a related note, it is important to clarify that outside of illness or emergency, school attendance is compulsory. A family vacation does not qualify as an excused absence. School holidays and breaks are published well in advance in an effort to offer parents an opportunity to plan their vacations at a time that does not interfere with attendance policies. Families and their sons cannot expect teachers to accommodate missed work/opportunities for any unexcused absence. Unexcused absences during midterm or fi nal examinations are strictly prohibited.

Please keep in mind that attendance throughout the school year is vital to a student’s academic success. There is no doubt that the correlation between absences and grades is extraordinary. As a rule of thumb, students who miss school have grades that refl ect their gaps in learning. Please support our efforts to have your son in school daily and on time. Remember, the school’s main number should not used to report any student absence. All attendance matters are expected to be reported to the Attendance Line at (215) 233-4140 before 9:00 am. A note is required upon returning to school. Thank you for your help in this area.

Important DatesThe fi rst semester ends at the end of the school day on Monday, January 14, 2008. First semester exams begin prior to the Martin Luther King Holiday Weekend. Midterm exams start on Tuesday, January 15, 2008 and end on Friday, January 18, 2008. There are no classes on Monday, January 21, 2008.

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

Examination ScheduleAs identifi ed on the school calendar, examinations for the fi rst semester will be given from January 15-19, 2008. The midterm exam schedule, although not developed for this submission, will be posted at the end of the fi rst week of January both in school and on the website under the Academic subheading. Examinations begin as early as 8:15

am and are scheduled as late as 2:30 pm. It is common that students have exams each day. Encourage your son to continue his preparation for exams over the holiday break.

Inclement WeatherIn the event that inclement weather forces a school closing on an examination day, students will take the previously untaken exams in sequence the next day that school is open. For example, if the exams scheduled for Thursday January 17, 2008 should be cancelled due to snow, these exams would be given on January 18, 2008 and the exams originally scheduled for January 18, 2008 would move to the next school day which in this case is Tuesday, January 22, 2008. Changes such as these that alter the exam schedule while it is going on will be posted on the website.

Report CardsReport cards for the second semester will be handed out in homeroom on Friday, January 2, 2008 as indicated in the school calendar. Parent conferences for students with grades of D or F will be held on Tuesday, January 29, 2008 from 7:00 to 8:30 pm. Conferences, as usual, will be scheduled by appointment. Appointment request forms will be distributed with report cards to your son(s) in homeroom. They are also available in the Main Offi ce. Remember, the appointment protocol involves your son as the initiator of scheduling. Having your son attend these meetings can be a very productive experience for everyone.

Final FailuresAny student who fails a semester course, must remove the failure in order to return to La Salle in the fall. Seniors who earn a fi nal failure in a semester course are ineligible for graduation unless the failure is made up. First semester grades of seniors will be sent to the colleges to which they have applied in the fi rst week of February.

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 fi ve (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.

For information please contact Mr. Dennis Bloh at (215) 233-2911, ext. 4105 or bloh@lschs.org

To register contact Mrs. Suzanne Russo at (215) 233-2911 or russo@lschs.org

6 The Belcroft January

Financial AidBe aware of the deadlines for filing the FAFSA (www.fafsa.ed.gov), CSSPROFILE (www.collegeboard.com), and colleges’ own financial aid forms. Each college will have its own deadline for filing these forms. Since the forms are sent to a central site to be processed you must meet the earliest deadline from the student’s list of schools. Keep in mind that the demand for financial aid is increased because of the increased cost of a college education. Meeting deadlines is key to receiving aid. Check our website, www.lschs.org/college, for financial aid and scholarship information and links.

Semester ExamsStudy for semester exams. College admissions will look very closely at these senior grades and interim GPA. Mid-year grades for seniors will be sent after the end of the first semester to all of the colleges to which the seniors have applied.

Seniors are reminded to inform Mrs. O’Connell in the College Counseling Center about any acceptances and scholarships or grants by bringing in the letters of acceptances and awards. Please inform teachers who have written letters of recommendation on the student’s behalf about these outcomes.

JuniorsThe National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) latest survey regarding the state of college admission again measured the top factors in the admission decision. The top three are:

• grades in college preparatory courses,

• scores in standardized admission tests, and

• grades in all courses.

The application essay, counselor and teacher recommendations, and extracurricular activities were reported as “tip factors” – factors not considered as baselines for admission, but could figure prominently in differentiating similarly qualified candidates. Please keep these factors in mind as the students prepare to take their first semester exams, begin second semester courses, and register in March for courses for senior year.

The college counselors – Mr. Gerard Brett, Brother William DiPasquale, and Mrs. Mary Kay Mullen – will begin to meet with the juniors once a cycle in advisory classes beginning second semester. The purpose of the advisories is to prepare the students for the college search and application process. The course syllabus is available at www.lschs.org/college.

College Counseling CenterMary Kay MullenDirector of College Counseling

Standardized TestingHaving experience with both types of standardized testing (SAT and ACT) will allow the students to determine the format where they will be most successful in follow-up testing. Each junior should have taken two of the same test – either the ACT with writing component 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).

Test Dates Registration Deadline Late Registration

SAT January 26, 2008 December 26, 2008 January 4, 2008

ACT February 9, 2008 January 4, 2008 January 18, 2008

SAT March 1, 2008 January 29, 2008 February 7, 2008

When registering for the SAT or ACT, the student is reminded to use his legal name, the name that is on his transcript, to avoid confusion in the college application process. We recommend that students use suitable email addresses when corresponding with colleges keeping in mind the impressions they are creating. Our school code – 393370 – should be entered on the registration so the college counselors receive the test scores.

AthletesStudents interested in participating in Division I (and II) athletics at the collegiate level must be aware of the NCAA Clearinghouse requirements listed on the last page of our school calendar and at www.ncaaclearinghouse.net. Students first entering a Division I collegiate institution on or after August 1, 2008 must meet the new sixteen core course rule. The sixteen core course rule INCREASES the number of core courses from fourteen to sixteen for Division I only. Students should also be aware of the requirements to participate at the Division II level.

In preparing for the college search and application process we invite you to become familiar with our website – www.lschs.org/college. You will find general and specific information and links to many useful sites.

Information Nights for Parents of JuniorsInformation Nights for parents of juniors conducted by the College Counselors will be held on February 5, 2008 and February 7, 2008 at 7:15 pm in the school auditorium.

February 5, 2008 Students whose last names begin with A through K

February 7, 2008 Students whose last names begin with L through Z

If you are not able to attend on the designated night and prefer the alternate night, please notify Mrs. Kathleen O’Connell in the College Counseling Center at (215) 233-2911. Students do not need to attend since this information is being covered in their advisory classes.

7

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 summer@lschs.orgVisit 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 ProgramsTerrence P. Gillespie ‘82Director of Summer Program

8 The Belcroft January

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

Sign-Up with the

Mothers’ Club

9

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.The Christmas season is a gentle reminder that we

should all embrace the spirit of giving. Luckily, I have the opportunity to embrace it on a weekly basis, while taking part in various tutoring opportunities – Explorer Club and La Salle Academy Tutoring. These worthy service projects have defined my experience in giving back to those less fortunate and provided an opportunity to realize how I can make a difference in the lives of others – a gift that will take me places now and in the future.

Every Tuesday, Mr. Cipolla takes about thirty tutors down to La Salle Academy, a grade school in Kensington, a section of North Philadelphia. The children that attend La Salle Academy are from extremely impoverished neighborhoods; therefore, the children’s school day runs from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, with the intention of keeping the students behind the safe walls of school for as long as possible. We arrive at 4:00 pm and immediately scatter to different grade levels or to different jobs that need attending.

For about an hour, we tutor the children in a variety of subjects, and have an opportunity to get to know the kids personally. It was during my most recent visit when I had the chance to tutor a girl that taught me to have a deeper appreciation for my blessings and the value of life itself. This girl opened up to me, and shared experiences

and stories with me that I would have never been able to comprehend when I was her age. I listened to her and gave her confidence in reassuring that everything would be okay. She thanked me so many times for helping her.

On Thursdays, I take part in the Explorer Club and travel with Mr. Ponisiak and Mrs. Smith to St. Martin de Porres School in Germantown, where we tutor grade school children. The eight or ten boys who participate, along with our teachers, are active from the moment we arrive until we leave. The children rely on us to help them with their homework and school activities and the results of our efforts are visible from the children’s appreciation as well as their ability to better comprehend the subject manner and school work.

When I leave these schools, I realize the enormous impact that tutoring the students has on their lives as well as how it affects my appreciation for the life I have. I now understand that we as tutors embrace the act of doing the work of God every time we help someone else and that is what the season of giving is all about.

Men of ServiceA Season of Givingby Colin Eisenschmid ’10

10 The Belcroft January

Help your teen make learning resolutions. Encourage your teen to make a few New Year’s resolutions that will help him do his best for the remainder of the school year:

• Learn the difference between homework and study. Homework is when your teen answers the five questions at the end of the chapter. Study is when he makes an effort to learn the material for himself. Is your teen studying enough? If not, ask his teachers how he can improve his study skills.

• Accept the challenge. Some teens just coast by, taking the easiest courses and doing the least work possible. But to prepare for college and a good job, they need to step up. Is your teen taking challenging classes? Is he doing his best? If not, how can he increase the challenge level?

• Manage your time. Does your teen always put things off until the last minute? Can you help him break down those big projects into smaller parts?

Reprinted with permission from the January 2008 issue of Parents Still Make The Difference!® (High School Edition). Copyright © 2008 The Parent

Institute®, a division of NIS, Inc.

Boost your teen’s achievement by remaining involved in school. You don’t have to read research reports to know that your involvement is important to your teen’s school success. After all, teens usually rise to the level of what parents expect.

But if you did sit down to read a research report, you’d find that your instincts are exactly right. Parents who stay involved with the school have teens who are more successful.

Sadly, a lot of parents become dropouts. One in three high school students say their parents have no idea how they are doing in school. And more than half say they could bring home a grade of C or lower without upsetting their parents.

So what can you do? Go to school events. Your physical presence sends a powerful message to your teen. And talk about your expectations for how he does in school. Your teen may not always be the best, but he should always do his best.

Reprinted with permission from the January 2008 issue of Parents Still Make The Difference!® (High School Edition). Copyright © 2008 The Parent Institute®, a Division of NIS, Inc.

11

Don’t forget—your rules shape the adult your teen becomes.Your teen might think he is an adult, but he’s not—yet. It’s hard to find the balance between the “right” amount of discipline and the “right” amount of independence.

You don’t want to prevent your teen from growing up, but you also don’t want to force him to grow up before he’s ready. And you’re getting tired of debating that point with your teen.

It helps to remember that your rules shape the adult he’s about to become. He might complain now, but your discipline is teaching him the skills necessary to thrive in the real world. So when you feel tempted to relax your rules, if you have to hear one more time about what “Jason’s parents let Jason do,” don’t. Remind yourself that you made these rules for a reason: to help your teen turn into the adult you want him to be.

Reprinted with permission from the January 2008 issue of Parents Still Make The Difference!® (High School Edition). Copyright © 2008 The Parent Institute®, a Division of NIS, Inc.

Avoid participating in your teen’s debates over everything.Perhaps your teen may one day end up arguing a case in front of the Supreme Court. But does he have to argue every issue with you?

Some teens want to challenge every decision. They like the give-and-take of an argument. Meanwhile, you just want to get the dishes cleaned! Here are tips for dealing with your “in-house lawyer”:

• Say it once. Get in the habit of stating your request calmly—and one time.

• Remember that it takes two to argue. One person can’t argue by himself. So when he starts in with an argument, just don’t answer.

• Offer choices. Ask your teen whether he’d rather clear the table or take out the trash. If he says, “Neither,” just say, “That wasn’t a choice. Trash or table?”

• Teach some rules for debates. Share rules for fighting fairly. If your teen is going to be in a constant negotiation, he might as well learn them. Focus on issues, not people. Don’t get angry. Listen to what others have to say.

Reprinted with permission from the January 2008 issue of Parents Still Make The Difference!® (High School Edition). Copyright © 2008 The Parent Institute®, a Division of NIS, Inc.

12 The Belcroft January

Mothers’ ClubBarbara Grelis HouldinPresident

Dear Mothers’ Club Members,

On behalf of the Mothers’ Club Board, I would like to extend best wishes to you and your family as we begin the New Year. May it be one of health, happiness and peace for all of us!

Thanks to your enthusiastic support, Mothers’ Club events during the fi rst four months of the school year have enjoyed outstanding success. As part of our community-building efforts, we welcomed mothers and guardians of the Class of 2011 to membership in the Mothers’ Club at the New Mothers’ Tea, presented the fi rst lecture in our Sesquicentennial Lecture Series, co-sponsored “Family Day at La Salle,” and hosted mothers of seniors at our traditional Christmas tree-trimming event. We also inaugurated a monthly Mother and Son service project, which helps to support Saint Francis Inn.

Mothers’ Club members provide helping hands to the La Salle community in many other ways, such as processing orders for the Magazine Drive, and acting as hostesses at the College Fair, Honors Convocation, Open House, and Junior Ring Mass.

We sponsored three events this Fall that brought in signifi cant funds in support of the Mothers’ Club’s yearly gift to La Salle. The sale of gift wrap raised in excess of $6,000, and the Christmas Shopping Spectacular realized profi ts of almost $11,000. Despite facing several formidable obstacles as a result of the current construction, LaSale 2007, the 25th Anniversary Auction, co-sponsored with the Men of La Salle, broke new ground by adding an online auction, and shattered previous auction records by raising more than $300,000.

These successes would not have been possible without the efforts of the dedicated Board members who chair Mothers’ Club events. Space constraints preclude recognizing them all by name here, but when you next see a woman wearing the teapot pin that identifi es Board members, please be sure to let her know how much you appreciate her hard work.

“Fun” and “fund” raising continue through the end of the school year, and we ask for your support to ensure that the second half of the year is as successful as the fi rst. We have two major fundraisers this semester, the Fashion Show at Presidential Caterers on March 13, 2008, and the New York trip, where we will see “Legally Blonde” on April 16, 2008 (the trip is sold out, but we are accepting checks for a wait list). We’ll also continue to support school events by helping out at Freshman Registration and at the National Honor Society Induction in February.

Please save the date for the annual Mother and Son Communion Brunch, which will take place this year on February 24, 2008 at Williamson’s in Horsham. Mothers of seniors will also want to note April 23, 2008 on their calendars, when the Mothers’ Club will host them and their sons at the Senior Mother and Son Liturgy and dinner. Our year will conclude on May 8, 2008, when we celebrate our fi nal event, the Spring Buffet.

Finally, on a personal note, I would like to thank all of the wonderful women of the Mothers’ Club for their many kindnesses to me this year. It is my privilege to work with all of you in support of our sons and La Salle.

For the Board,

Barbara Grelis HouldinMothers’ Club President

Calendar of EventsJanuary 6 Mother and Son Service Project (Cafeteria)

January 10 Mothers’ Club Meeting (Dunleavy)

February 3 Mother and Son Service Project (Cafeteria)

February 7 Mothers’ Club Meeting (Dunleavy)

February 24 Mother/Son Communion Brunch (Williamson’s)

Sally Foster Gift Wrap SaleThank you to all the families that participated in the Sally Foster Fundraiser. If you are still in need of special occasion gift wrap, La Salle will continue to receive full credit for all orders placed online until January 15, 2008. Go to www.sallyfoster.com, reference our 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) 470-4349klmce@comcast.net deborahlandregan@comcast.net

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.

“Family Day at La Salle,” and hosted mothers of seniors at our traditional Christmas tree-trimming event. We also inaugurated a monthly Mother and Son service project,

For the Board,

Barbara Grelis Houldin

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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, January 6, 2008 and on Sunday, February 3, 2008 at 10:00 am in the school cafeteria. We should be finished in about an hour. 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) 584-1514 cletcavage@comcast.ne ederr1@comcast.net

Thank you to everyone who has participated thus far!

Feast of Mary, Mother of GodRemember on Christmas morning how we found our way to the stable? It may have been the stable on the mantle or under the Christmas tree or in our parish church. We gazed at the baby in the manger just like the shepherds had done so long ago. Jesus was there with Mary and Joseph. Today we begin our new year at the Eucharistic Celebration. We thank God for Mary, Jesus’ mother, who brought the Savior into the world. Because she is the mother of Jesus, God’s Son, she truly is the Mother of God. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, Mary conceived Jesus. Joseph was Jesus’ loving foster-father.

God chose Mary to be the mother of his Son. She was a teenager and her parents were Joachim and Anne. Mary loved God and her Jewish religion. She was probably considered ordinary by her neighbors. It would be God’s work in her that would make her so special, so blessed. God sent the Archangel Gabriel to Mary’s town of Nazareth. The angel asked her to accept a wonderful plan-wonderful for her and for all of us. Mary wanted to please God and she accepted the plan. She became Jesus’ mother. Mary and her husband, Joseph, tried to raise Jesus the best way they could and with great love. Jesus spent many happy, quiet years with Mary and Joseph in Nazareth.

Mother and Son Communion BrunchSunday, February 24, 200810:00 amWilliamson’s Caterers500 Blair Mill RoadHorsham, PA 19044

Please join us on Sunday, February 24, 2008 for the Mother and Son Communion Brunch – one of the favorite La Salle events enjoyed throughout the year.

This year, the affair will be held at Williamson’s Caterers due to the construction and expansion project currently underway at the school itself.

The event begins at 10:00 am with a Mass celebrated by Reverend Anthony Janton followed by a brunch buffet and a guest lecture by our own Mr. Tony Resch. Tony plays many roles as a valuable member of the La Salle family. He is a teacher, Assistant La Crosse Coach, and Athletic Director. He is also the Head Coach of the Philadelphia Barrage and a father of three.

Reservations are required and the cost is $25 per person or $60 per family if you have two or more sons.

To make your reservation, please use the enclosed Brunch flyer. You may indicate a seating preference or your son’s graduation year and we will do our best to seat you with his fellow classmates. Seating accommodations are guaranteed for tables of ten only. Please enclose one check for the total amount and a list all ten guests names on the response form.

We look forward to seeing you on Sunday, February 24, 2008. The event is a wonderful opportunity to spend time with the ones we love the most!

Please call with any questions:

Trish Sinnott (215) 429-1616 tsinnott@comcast.net

Luanne Fisher Eileen Fabiszewski (215) 641-0571 (215) 646-4984

Marianne Harkins Debbie Landregan (215) 273-5678 (267) 470-4349

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14 The Belcroft January

Spring Into FashionAnnual Fashion Show and DinnerThursday, March 13, 20085:30 to 10:00 pmPresidential CaterersNorristown, PA

Please join us for a night of fun, friendship and fashion at the annual Spring Fashion Show!

The Tombola tables will be filled with gifts that capture the hearts of those who want to “Spring into Fashion.” This year you will be able to bid on the gifts of your choice.

Mark your calendars for Thursday, March 13, 2008 and call your family members and friends. Tables of ten may be reserved. Tickets are limited, so buy them early.

If you have any questions or would like to donate an item to the tombola table, please call a committee member. As always, your financial support is sincerely appreciated. Cash donations are also welcome.

We look forward to seeing you on March 13, 2008!

Trish Meehan Donna Bennett (215) 479-6487 (215) 654-0223

Meg Eisenschmid Christine Funchion (215) 518-8572 (267) 419-8542

Ellen Derr (610) 417-3993

eScrip – Not Just Genuardi’s Any MoreOnline shopping is the fastest growing retail segment. Now eScrip brings you the latest tools to earn money from online purchases. Enroll with eScrip by visiting www.shopping.escrip.com – La Salle Group No. 6525176. Shop your favorite brand stores and automatically earn up to 18% for La Salle. Visit www.escrip.com to find out more.

Any questions please contact:

Mary Farrington farrington16@comcast.net.

Senior TreeA special time was had by all of the Senior moms who joined in for the Senior Tree events. All ornaments were carefully boxed, and given to your sons to bring home on December 19, 2008.

Christmas Shopping SpectacularA record 400 shoppers braved the weather and shopped ‘til they dropped at the 4th Annual Christmas Shopping Spectacular. It was once again a wonderful day for all of those who attended. With over fifty fabulous vendors, wonderful food and friendship, the day was a great way to start the Holiday season. Thanks to all our volunteers and those who brought their friends and family, purchased a tombola ticket, and supported the vendors. All of you helped to make the day a huge success! Special thanks to the Christmas Shopping Spectacular Committee: Donna Benz, Kim Driscoll, Karen Fisco, Eileen Maginnis, and Krista McElroy.

New York City TripApril 16th, 2008Legally BlondeSOLD OUT!

Information about the trip is posted on the Mothers’ Club website.

Any questions should be sent to the attention of:

Miriam Ralston minin2@comcast.net

Save The DateMothers’ Club Board Alumnae LuncheonThursday May 15, 2008

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 La Salle’s Sesquicentennial.

We do not want to miss anyone. If you served on the Mothers’ Club Board prior to 1980 or between 1987 and 1992 or know someone who did, our committee needs your help to compile our guest list. Please share names and contact information for women who served on the Mothers’ Club Board.

Please contact:

Kathy Caramenico(610) 631-5249kcaram@yahoo.com

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Men of La SalleTimothy J. Foley ’66President

Happy New Year from the Men of La Salle! Looking ahead to 2008, the Men of La Salle have several Father and Son events planned, starting with our Super “SonDay” scheduled for Sunday January 13, 2008. We are actively working on the details for the Induction Mass and Social on February 23, 2008, the Father/Son Bowling on March 15, 2008, the Baseball Trip on April 20, 2008 and the Golf Outing on April 21, 2008. Please continue to look for updates to these and all Men of La Salle events in The Belcroft, coming to you in the mail or by visiting us on the web at www.lschs.org.

Upcoming Calendar of EventsThursday January 3, 2008 Monthly Meeting 6:30 pm

Sunday January 13, 2008 Super “SonDay” 12:30 pm

An afternoon of NFL football, fun, and just hanging out with our sons.

Thursday February 7, 2008 Monthly Meeting 6:30 pm

Saturday February 23, 2008 Induction Mass and Member Social (more information will be mailed) Induction of new members, dinner, and dancing

Super “SonDay”Saturday January 13, 2008

The Men of La Salle present Super SonDay. An opportunity for the fathers and sons to “hang” together with all the things guys need - Food and drink, competition, prizes, and sports on the big screen! Don’t miss this sure to be fun event on Sunday, January 13, 2008, in the La Salle Auditorium form 12:30 to 4:00 pm. The day includes: NFL Playoffs projected on the screen over the stage, hot food, snacks, drinks, Father/Son Trivia, and lots of other fun guy stuff. You may even walk away as the winner of the Braggin’ Rights Poker Tournament.

Tickets are $10 for one, and $20. for the whole family! More information will be coming soon!

Please contact:

Tim Fagantlfpro@aol.com(215) 508.2615

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!

Feast of The Eternal FatherThe entire life of the Father in the Holy Trinity is to “speak” His Son, His Word; it is to engender, by a unique, simple and eternal act, a Son resembling Himself, to whom He communicates the plenitude of His Being and His perfections. In this Word, infinite like Himself, in this unique and eternal Word, the Father never ceases to recognize His Son, His own image, “the splendor of His glory”. This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well-pleased. These words, pronounced on Mount Tabor at the time of the Transfiguration, are the greatest revelation God has made to the earth; they are an echo of the very life of the Father. The Father, in His character of Father, lives by engendering His Son; this generation has neither beginning nor end. In eternity we will behold with astonishment, admiration and love, that procession of the Son engendered in the bosom of the Father, procession which is eternal: Thou art My Son; this day I have engendered Thee. The today is the perpetual present of eternity.

It is an excellent thing in the spiritual life to keep before the eyes of the heart, this testimony of the Father; nothing is more powerful to sustain our faith. And let us then say, “Yes, Father, I believe it, and I want to repeat it: this Jesus who is in me through faith, through grace, through Holy Communion, is Your Son. Because You have said it, I believe it. And because I believe it, I adore Your Son, to render Him my homage and through Him, in Him, to render to You also, O Heavenly Father, in union with Your Spirit, all honor and all glory.” Such a prayer is very agreeable to our Father in heaven; when it is true, pure and frequent, it makes us the object of the Father’s love. God envelops us in the complacency which He finds in His own Son Jesus. It is Our Lord Himself who tells us so: “The Father loves you, because you have believed that I have come from Him” — that I am His Son. What happiness for a soul to be the object of the Father’s love, this Father “from whom every perfect gift comes down” to rejoice hearts!

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16 The Belcroft January

SwimmingThe 2007-2008 Swim Team finished second on December 1, 2007 behind Loyola of Baltimore, but finished ahead of Malvern Prep at the season’s opening meet in Baltimore. The team swam well as it continues to get in shape for the upcoming Philadelphia Catholic League season, which La Salle opened by defeating Archbishop Wood on December 7, 2007.

The team traveled to North Penn on December 11, 2007 in what proved to be an exciting meet from start to finish. La Salle had handled North Penn easily the year before, but had a feeling that things would be different this year. North Penn opened the meet by going 1st and 3rd in the medley relay, which put La Salle behind early. It took a while for La Salle to gain the lead as La Salle’s power swimmers scored a lot of 1st places. Individual winners were Greg Woods, Todd Domanski, Ted Walker, Andrew Speese, Andrew Sideras, and Blasé Szyszko. In a tight meet, it is often the little things that can turn a meet one way or the other and most of these big moments went in La Salle’s favor. Tom Knab, came from behind in the 500 to get a critical 5th place that started La Salle’s rally to pull away from North Penn. Tom did his personal best time of 5:15. Shortly after, junior Tom O’Neil got a 4th place in the 100 backstroke – a race that La Salle was not expected to take any points. This helped La Salle pull away and win the meet by a score of 94-76.

La Salle High School Baseball CampSession One – Hitting Instruction OnlyJuly 1-3, 2008Cost $150.00

Session Two – Hitting/Fielding/Pitching/CatchingJuly 14-18, 2008Cost $200.00

Attend Both Sessions for $300.00

Open to players ten years old through players entering the 9th Grade.

For a camp application or additional information, please contact Coach Joe Parisi at (215) 233-2911, ext. 3085 or parisi@lschs.org

Student Highlights

Band SocialCalling all cowboys and cowgirls! Round up your friends and mosey on down to the auditorium for the Annual La Salle Music Department Parents’ Social. Our theme this year is “Wild Wild West,” so jeans and boots are appropriate. If you know of a La Salle grad that was in the band, tell him we’re looking for him to join in the fun. Bring an instrument (or borrow one that night) and relive the glory days.

RafflesGift Baskets

We will provide food and drink (beer and sodas).BYOB (Set-ups provided). We ask that you bring a dessert.

If you’re unable to attend our one & only fundraiser, you can still participate by purchasing a chance for our “Lawman Basket” for $5 each. Winner will be notified.

Saturday, January 26, 2008 7:30 to 11:00 pmAuditorium $30 per ticket

RSVP by January 21, 2007

Send check payable to:La Salle College High School Music Departmentc/o Mary Lou Hughes2100 Bridle Lane Oreland, PA 19075

Family Name

Son’s Year

Phone

Email

Number of Tickets (Tables of eight must be paid for in advance)

Cross Country First Team Tom Buoncristiano Pat Donnelly Dan Lowry Sean McCullough Tom O’Kane

Second Team Shawn Quinn

Honorable MentionChris Fasy James Stevenson

Golf First Team Anthony DePaul Kyle DiGiacobbe Tucker Durkin Kevin GenuardiMatt McGovern Patrick Melvin Kevin Seybert Jack Ulan

Soccer First Team Ryan Patrick Tom Smart

Second Team Bob Marzullo

Third Team Dan Sacchetta

Football Second Team Matt Alba Pat Morrow

Honorable Mention Mike Donohoe Ryan Eidenshink John Harrison Joe Migliarese Bob Siess Andrew Wood

Water PoloFirst Team (All-Eastern Prep Team)Connor BrackenGreg Woods

Men of AccomplishmentAll-Catholic SelectionsFall 2007

17

18 The Belcroft January

Varsity Sports SchedulesTony ReschAthletic Director

BasketballJoe Dempsey

Head Coach

January

4 Cardinal Dougherty 7:30 pm Away 6 Archbishop Wood 2:30 pm Home 11 Northeast Catholic 8:00 pm Home 14 Conwell-Egan Catholic 7:30 pm Away 18 Bishop McDevitt 7:30 pm Away 21 Archbishop Ryan 7:30 pm Away 25 Father Judge 8:00 pm Home 27 Cardinal Dougherty 2:30 pm Home

BowlingSteve FaunceHead Coach

January

3 Father Judge 3:15 pm Boulevard Lanes 8 Lansdale Catholic 3:15 pm Thunderbird Lanes 10 Archbishop Wood 3:15 pm Thunderbird Lanes 15 Northeast Catholic 3:15 pm Brunswick Erie Lanes 17 Cardinal Dougherty 3:15 pm Brunswick Adams Lanes 21 Snowball Classic 8:00 am Laurel Lanes 22 Conwell-Egan Catholic 3:15 pm Thunderbird Lanes 24 Archbishop Ryan 3:15 pm Thunderbird Lanes 31 Lansdale Catholic 3:15 pm Thunderbird Lanes

HockeyWally MuehlbronnerHead Coach

January

9 Holy Ghost Prep 7:20 pm Hatfield 18-20 Meadville Tournament TBA Meadville 22 Don Bosco Prep 7:00 pm Ice Vault, NJ 24 Cardinal O’Hara 8:30 pm Hatfield 26 Pittsburgh Central Catholic 10:45 am Ice Line 28 Bonner-Prendergast 8:00 pm Skatium

Indoor Track and FieldPat DevineHead Coach

January

3 Holiday Tri-Meet 4:00 pm Haverford College 5 TFCAGP Meet No. 5 12:30 pm Lehigh University 12 TFCAGP Meet No. 6 8:00 am Haverford College 19 TFCAGP Meet No. 7 12:00 pm Haverford College

SwimmingFrank LichtnerHead Coach

Defending Philadelphia Catholic League Champions

January

3 Roman Catholic 4:00 pm Temple University 10 Father Judge 3:30 pm Home 12 Blue Chip Meet 3:00 pm Malvern Prep 22 Archbishop Ryan 3:30 pm Home 26-27 National Catholics 12:00 pm Villanova University

WrestlingVic StanleyHead Coach

Defending Philadelphia Catholic League Champions

January

5 Devil Duals 9:00 am Avon Grove 9 Father Judge 6:00 pm Home 12 Central Mountain Duals 9:00 am Lock Haven University 16 Cardinal Dougherty 6:00 pm Home 19 St. Joseph’s Prep 12:00 pm Away 23 Archbishop Wood 6:00 pm Away

The Official Newsletter of La Salle College High School

PresidentBrother Richard Kestler, FSC ’60

PrincipalJoseph L. Marchese

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

The Belcroft is published by La Salle College High School during the months of

La Salle College High School 8605 Cheltenham AvenueWyndmoor, Pennsylvania 19038

www.lschs.org

Return Service RequestedFirst Class Mail

First Class MailSeptember 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.

January 2008Volume SeventeenNumber 5

Calendar of Events January 2008 1 New Year’s Day No Classes

2 School Holiday No Classes

3 Classes Resume

Men of La Salle Meeting 6:30 pm

8 Alumni Board Meeting 7:30 pm

10 Mothers’ Club Meeting 9:15 am

Scholarship Reception

13 Super SonDay 1:00 pm

14 End of Second Marking Period

15-18 First Semester Exams

21 Martin Luther King Day No Classes

22 Second Semester Begins ”A” Day

25 Report Cards Issued

26 SAT I and II

29 Kairos 37-60

Parent-Teacher Conferences 7:00 pm