JASPER JOTTINGS Week 17 - 2009 April 26

Jasper Jottings - The achievement journal of my fellow Jaspers, the alumni of the Manhattan College

http://www.jasperjottings.com/2009/jasperjottings2009W17.html


INDEX


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POSITRACTION: No one should call her disabled either!

http://www.ted.com/talks/view/id/482

Aimee Mullins’s Awesome Legs
by Chris Higgins - March 11, 2009 - 5:29 PM

*** begin quote ***

Aimee Mullins is an athlete, fashion model, and actor. But there’s something a little bit unusual about her: Mullins was born without fibulas (lower leg bones), and had her legs amputated below the knee as an infant. She wears prosthetic legs — some lifelike and some enhanced for sports performance. In a February TED Talk, Mullins shows off twelve pairs of her legs — and walks around the stage wearing high heels the whole time.

This is a pretty amazing talk. A word of warning, there is brief nudity depicted in one still image during the talk (a shot of Mullins in cheetah makeup for a movie).

*** end quote ***

Wow!

And not for the “adult” picture.

She’s “amazing”!

“Pamela Anderson has more prostetic in her body than I do. No one calls her disabled.”

“I have an entirely new relationship to doorjams that I never expected I would have.”

“It’s a conversation about potential.”

“We have to all celebrate those heartbreaking strengths and those glorious disabilities that we all have.”

“… and all the potential within us that makes us beautiful.”

Absolutely stunning and insightful.

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    * Posted on: Sun, Apr 19 2009 12:37 AM



JObit: Berger, Barry Michael [MC1962]

http://www.legacy.com/PilotOnline/Obituaries.asp?Page=LifeStory&PersonId=126334049

Barry Berger

Barry Michael Berger VIRGINIA BEACH - Barry Michael Berger, 68, of Virginia Beach, died April 2, 2009. Mr. Berger was born in Manhattan, N.Y., and was raised in the Bronx, N.Y. He received a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering degree from Manhattan College in Riverdale, N.Y., in 1962 and a Master of Management Science degree from Stevens Institute of Technology, in Hoboken, N.J., in 1974. He attended the Naval Officer Candidate School in Newport, R.I., in 1965, and was commissioned an ensign in the U.S. Navy Civil Engineer Corps (Seabees), where he received the Department of Defense Joint Service Commendation Medal for service in the Pacific. In 1968, he completed his military service as a lieutenant (senior grade). In his civilian career, Mr. Berger served in management and executive positions in the fields of equipment maintenance and intermodal transportation including: director of Maintenance, REA Express, New York City; director of Technical Services, Seatrain Lines, Hoboken, N.J.; vice president Maintenance, Gateway Transportation, LaCrosse, Wis.; vice president Maintenance, Pennsylvania Truck Lines Division of Conrail, Philadelphia; vice president of Maintenance, Key Way Transport, Baltimore. Mr. Berger retired as director of Corporate Services for Titan America, Norfolk, in 2001. He enjoyed gardening, working on his home and anything related to heavy equipment and the transportation industry. Mr. Berger was the son of the later Victor E. Berger and the late Ethel M. Berger (Logan). He is survived by a brother, Bruce L. Berger and his wife Annette of Pleasant Valley, N.Y.; nephew, John Berger and family of Aurora, Colo.; nephew, Andrew Berger and family of Putnam Valley, N.Y.; and niece JoAnn Berger of New York City. A memorial service and columbarium burial will be held Friday, April 24, at 1 p.m. in the Church of the Holy Family, Virginia Beach. Oast & Hook, P.C., Virginia Beach, is in charge of arrangements.

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Berger, Barry Michael [MC1962]  

Guestbook: http://tinyurl.com/cppywu

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    * Posted on: Sun, Apr 19 2009 1:37 PM



JFound: Phoenix, Justin [MC1996?] Camden Catholic HS HOF

http://www.gloucestercitynews.net/clearysnotebook/2009/04/
camden-catholic-high-school-cherry-hill-will-recognize-its—2009-hall
-of-fame-inductees-at-a-ceremony-to-be-held-saturday.html

April 19, 2009

Camden Catholic HS Alumni Hall of Fame Recipients

Camden Catholic High School, Cherry Hill, will recognize its 2009 Hall of Fame inductees at a ceremony to be held Saturday, April 25, 7 p.m. at the school, followed by a cocktail reception.

The public is welcome and tickets are available by calling 856-663-2267, ext 49.

This year’s inductees in the Hall of Fame Academic and Arts group are:

{Extraneous Deleted}

This year’s inductees in the Hall of Fame’s Athletics group are:

{Extraneous Deleted}

*** begin quote ***

Justin Phoenix, ’92 – When playing at CCHS, Phoenix was one of the most prolific scorers of his era, earning First Team All-South Jersey and averaging 22.5 point a game in his senior year and finishing his CCHS career with 1,302 points. With Phoenix in the starting line for three seasons, the Irish went 73-13. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Manhattan College, where he excelled in basketball and helped his team earn an at-large bid to the NCAA March Madness. The Al Carino Basketball Club of South Jersey named him Major College Player of the Year. Later, he played in the British Basketball League, then in Korea, Spain, Italy, Germany, Japan, Indonesia, and the Dominican Republic. Back in the U.S. Phoenix turned to coaching at Burlington County College and later to Kean University with the women’s team. He is a resident of Williamstown.

*** end quote ***

Phoenix, Justin [MC1996?]

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    * Posted on: Sun, Apr 19 2009 2:37 PM



JEmail: McEneney, Mike (MC1953) ids obit Schmidt, George C. [MC1955]

From: McEneney, Mike (MC1953)
Date: April 19, 2009 12:28:14 AM EDT
To: “Jasperfjohn Reinke”
Subject: Schmidt, George C. ,1955

Dear John,

I believe that George is a member of the Class of 1955.

   May He Rest In Peace.

   Mike

[JR: Thanks, Mike. Much appreciated. ]

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    * Posted on: Sun, Apr 19 2009 5:11 PM



JEmail: Nason, John (MC1952) ids Playwright Pintauro, Joe [MC1954]

From: Nason, John (MC1952)
Date: April 19, 2009 12:24:07 PM EDT
To: Jasper Jottings
Subject: Joe Pintauro

Dear John:

Playwright Joe Pintauro graduated from Manhattan in 1954. A year or two ago, my wife and I ran into him after a production of his at the Bay Street theater in Sag Harbor, where he lives. He remembered fondly his days (and nights) spent in the Quadrangle office!

John Nason ‘52

[JR: Thanks. A playwright! Imagine. Never underestimate the talent of alums.]

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    * Posted on: Sun, Apr 19 2009 5:15 PM



JEmail: Toner, Michael (MC1972) remembers Dr. Mark Taylor

From: Toner, Michael (MC1972)
Date: April 19, 2009 1:36:24 PM EDT
Subject: Re: JASPER JOTTINGS Week 16 - 2009 April 19

Dear John,

I also am very saddened to hear of Dr. Mark Taylor’s passing. He was a great teacher to this “injineer” in our required writing/literature classes and later when I took an elective class with him through the (then new) Peace Studies department. After graduation he was kind enough to offer support in my correspondence with my draft board – remember those?

May a very good man rest in peace!

mike toner
bee ‘72
buffalo, ny

[JR: Sad, when bad things happen fmpov to good people. And he spoke 'injineer' too! I have a long list of politicians and bureaucrats that could have gone in his stead. Luckily for them, this is all above my pay grade. Draft Board? Is that like O's "universal service"? Like Prohibition, we never learn. Anyway, why do we still tolerate the continued existence of Draft Boards? Argh!]

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    * Posted on: Sun, Apr 19 2009 5:25 PM



MObit: Dugan, Patrick J. Jr. [MCatnd]

http://www.legacy.com/TCPalm/Obituaries.asp?Page=LifeStory&PersonId=126400914

Patrick J. Dugan Jr.

Patrick J. Dugan Jr., 86, died April 18, 2009. He was born in New York City and lived in Jensen Beach for eight years, coming from Glen Rock, N.J., and had been a winter resident for 12 years. Prior to retirement, he was a decorated detective 1st grade for the New York Police Department for 20 years and a time keeper for the Sea Land Corp. for more than 30 years in Elizabeth, N.J. He was a member of the St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church in Jensen Beach and a former member of St. Catherine Catholic Church in Glen Rock. He was a graduate of LaSalle Academy in New York City and attended Manhattan College. He was a member of the International Longshoremen’s Association for more than 30 years. Survivors include his wife of 33 years, Virginia M. Dugan of Jensen Beach; son, Patrick J. Dugan III of Wyckoff, N.J.; and sister, Margaret Vaughan of Glen Rock. Memorial contributions may be made to Treasure Coast Hospice, 1201 S.E. Indian St., Stuart, FL 34997. SERVICES: A memorial Mass will be celebrated at 11:30 a.m. April 21 at the St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church, Jensen Beach. Arrangements are by Aycock Funeral Home of Jensen Beach.

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Dugan, Patrick J. Jr. [MCatnd] [JR: Attendees recognized on the theory "if it's important to some one to specifically mention in an obit, then we can spare a few prayers".]

Guestbook: None cited.

[JR: "Wife of 33 years" noted. An interesting characteristic of Jasper obits. Does that tell us something about the man? Or, men? Or was it just the times? Perhaps it rubs off on campus. An ethic or an attitude that values marriage. A far cry from teh abuse we see sometimes in our own "civil" society or in the Near East by the Taliban. Imagine if these societies begin to treat half their population decently? Well, any more, and I'll have an end note.]

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    * Posted on: Mon, Apr 20 2009 9:40 AM



JObit: McCartan, Bernard [MC????]

http://www.tributes.com/obituary/show/Bernard-McCartan-Newark-DE-2009/85750690

Bernard McCartan

Mr. McCartan passed away on Friday, April 17, 2009.

Mr. McCartan was last known to be living in Newark, Delaware.

He graduated from Rural Valley High School. Mr. McCartan attended Manhattan College and Fordham University Law School.

He was a U.S. Navy veteran, serving on the Bon Homme Richard aircraft carrier during WWII.

He was preceded in death by his wife Mary.

A visitation will be held from 6-8 pm on Tuesday, April 21, 2009 at the Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 121 W. Park Place, Newark, DE. Mass of Christian burial will be offered at 10:30 am on Wednesday, April 22, 2009, at Holy Family R.C. Church, E. Chestnut Hill and Gender Roads, Newark. Interment will follow in All Saints Cemetery, 6001 Kirkwood Highway, Wilmington.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Holy Family R.C. Church, 15 Gender Road, Newark, DE 19713.

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McCartan, Bernard [MC????]

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Dear John,

    I do not find him in my “stuff”.

    Mike

[JR: Thanks, Mike. Much appreciated. ]

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[JR: Grace Feeney (MCstf) messaged me: "He is on our data base but there is no information in his record including class."]

[JR: Thanks, Grace. Much appreciated. ] 

[JR: Help?]

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    * Posted on: Mon, Apr 20 2009 3:32 PM
    * Updated: Wed, Apr 22 2009 4:07 AM



JFound: An unidentified Jasper blogger

http://peadarroe.wordpress.com/2009/04/20/what-depression/

What Depression?

April 20, 2009

*** begin quote ***

Two articles caught my interest in First Things this month. As with everything in that journal they were a bit above my pay grade. (Does that mean I can be President?) The first one was about demographics and depression. As a matter of fact that was the article’s title, “Demographics and Depression” by David P. Goldman, who among other things I guess is an associate editor of First Things. The other article was about faith and finance. Oddly enough it was also the title of the article, “Faith and Finance” by Gary T. Anderson. He works at Notre Dame University where he teaches something called the Old Testament.

*** and ***

At the risk of boring the reader to tears, Professor Anderson’s article reminded me of a course I took several hundred years ago when I was a Jasper (That’s what Manhattan College students are. It’s at least better than Gophers or Hogs). Father Anthony Rubsys, may he rest in peace, was my teacher, a gentle fellow who had actually been in the places Jesus walked and talked in. He could even speak the same language. He was the fellow who brought home to me the truth in the line about there being more things than are dreamt of in my philosophy…and most of them are contained in one Book.

*** end quote ***

[JR: An unidentified Jasper blogger]

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    * Posted on: Mon, Apr 20 2009 3:49 PM



JFound: O’Sullivan, John [MC1987] speaks to the Marketing Club

FROM FACEBOOK:

The Marketing Club would like to invite all majors to come and listen to John O’Sullivan, a Manhattan College alum who is now an account executive with Microsoft come to speak about account management as well as how he traveled the path from Graduation Day and Smith Auditorium to his present position. Please come and listen to someone who has been where you are now and may be where you want to be in the future. The time is 3:30 to 5 and the room will be DLS 207.

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Dear John,

   This might be John G. who is a member of the Class of 1987.

   Mike

[JR: Thanks, Mike. Much appreciated. ]

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    * Posted on: Mon, Apr 20 2009 11:37 PM
    * Updated: Wed, Apr 22 2009 4:07 AM



JObit: Wagner, Francis V. [MC1938]

http://www.legacy.com/LATimes/Obituaries.asp?Page=LifeStory&PersonId=126416375

Francis V. “Frank” Wagner

Wagner, Francis V.
April 15, 1916 - April 15, 2009

Francis V. (Frank) Wagner was born on April 15, 1916 in New York City and died of natural causes on the morning of his 93rd birthday, at his home in Pacific Palisades, CA. He was predeceased by his wife of 67 years, Ginny Wagner, who died last October at the age of 92. He is survived by three children: Trina (Bud) Pate of Pacific Palisades, CA ; Michael (Jolon) Wagner of Los Altos Hills, CA, and Frank (Karen) Wagner of West Lynn, OR. Frank also leaves behind six grandchildren and eight great grandchildren.

A graduate of Manhattan College, Frank began his career in 1938 designing barges in New York City. In 1944, Frank and Ginny moved to Southern California for Frank’s work with North American Aviation, where he and others used early computing technology to design the first jet fighter plane and the record-setting X-15. He eventually took the lead at North American’s Computer Division then joined four colleagues in the early 1960s to found Informatics, Inc. As Senior Executive Vice President and Member of the Board, Frank helped Informatics grow to become the premier software company of the 1960s and 70s, partnering with IBM to provide guidance systems for NASA’s moon landing. He retired from Informatics at the age 70 but remained active for another twenty years.

Frank and Ginny were founding parishioners of Corpus Christi Catholic Church in Pacific Palisades, CA, where he served as lector, usher, lay Eucharistic Minister, and founder of the parish’s Legion of Mary. In recognition of his service and commitment to the Catholic Church, Frank was made a Knight of Saint Gregory and given a pontifical decoration in 2006: the Benemerenti Award.

Frank was an avid golfer, bridge player and world traveler.

In lieu of flowers, please say a prayer for the eternal repose of Frank’s soul. It is his family’s hope that in the spirit of Frank’s life and memory, someone will be inclined to “pay it forward” by choosing to act charitably through their time or talents to those in need - especially in light of current economic stresses.

A memorial service will be held for Frank at Corpus Christi Church in Pacific Palisades at 2:00 PM on Saturday, April 25, 2009.

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Wagner, Francis V. [MC????]  

Guestbook: http://tinyurl.com/c2gea7

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Dear John,

    I believe that Frank is a member of the Class of 1938.

    May He Rest In Peace.

    Mike

[JR: Thanks, Mike. Much appreciated. ]

Wagner, Francis V. [MC1938]  

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    * Posted on: Tue, Apr 21 2009 7:39 AM
    * Updated: Wed, Apr 22 2009 4:07 AM



JEmail: Mangone, Mark (1977) appreciates Dr. Jack Famularo

Hello John,

Dr. Jack Famularo was the department head in the mid 70s. He was the reason I went to Manhattan College. I visited several colleges and universities. Dr. Famularo gave a personal tour of the college when I visited Manhattan and was very warm and friendly. During his tenor the Chemical Engineering Department was very warm and friendly, sort of like a family. Although there were only 14 of us in the class of 77, we were inseparable, like brothers. Dr. Jack Famularo set the tone for the department in the mid 70s.

Regards,
Mark Mangone (1977)

[JR: I think the MC had leaders like that. If the students were smart enough to recognize them. The faculty and staff are the DNA of the institution. If Jaspers come out good, it's not the buildings that do it. Thanks for a great email, makes doing this worthwhile.]

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    * Posted on: Tue, Apr 21 2009 10:33 AM



JNews: Austin, Kevin [MC1985] VP (Eastern) Ops Delaware North Companies

http://news.hospitality-1st.com/DNC-042109.html

Delaware North Companies Sportservice Realigns Management Team
Company Appoints Two Vice Presidents of Operation;
Kevin Austin to Oversee Eastern Region and
Joe Sims to Direct Company Operations in Western Region

*** begin quote ***

Buffalo, NY – April 2009 – Delaware North Companies Sportservice has announced the promotion of Kevin Austin and Joe Sims to the role of vice president of operations. Austin will oversee company operations in the Eastern region of the United States, while Sims will direct operations in the Western region. Both Austin and Sims will report to Rick Abramson, president of Delaware North Companies Sportservice.

“Both Kevin and Joe have proven themselves strong leaders and I’m confident they will excel in these new assignments,” said Rick Abramson, president of Delaware North Companies Sportservice.

Austin and Sims will work in tandem to direct Sportservice’s food, beverage and retail operations across the United States. They will manage the company’s operating staff while maintaining close relationships with Sportservice clients and growing the company’s presence in the hospitality industry. Austin will retain his responsibility for new clients in New York City and New Jersey. Sims will meanwhile continue to oversee company operations he previously managed as regional vice president.

“I believe having Kevin and Joe in these positions will strengthen our units across the country and grow our reputation as a leader in the hospitality industry,” said Abramson. “It will also allow us to bring greater focus to our business strategy moving forward.”

Austin has spent his entire 29-year career in the sports hospitality industry and held numerous executive-level positions during that span. Prior to joining Delaware North, he served as senior vice president at Centerplate and oversaw operations at some of the most impressive stadiums in the country. He also served on the company’s senior management team and was entrusted with strategic management decisions. Austin brings his wide array of experience, knowledge and insight to his new post. He earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration from Manhattan College in Riverdale, NY. Austin will be based in New Jersey.

{Extraneous Deleted}

“Both Kevin and Joe have positioned themselves as industry leaders in the sports concessions and facility management industries and I’m proud to have them working for Sportservice” said Abramson.

About Delaware North Companies Sportservice

Delaware North Companies Sportservice is one of the nation’s leading food, beverage and retail management companies. Sportservice provides concessions, gourmet catering and fine dining operations at more than 50 professional sporting venues, entertainment complexes and convention centers across the United States and Canada. Sportservice is the provider of choice for an impressive client roster including the World Series, the National Hockey League and Major League Baseball’s All-Star games, Stanley Cup Championships and the Olympic Games.

For more than 90 years, Sportservice has demonstrated that it knows what it takes to effectively develop, operate and manage multi-faceted kitchens, restaurants, suites, fine dining and retail facilities in order to meet the changing demands of today’s fans. From introducing new healthy, organic food selections and creative cuisine for twists on the traditional fare, Sportservice continues to innovate and enhance the fan experience.

About Delaware North Companies

Delaware North Companies is one of the world’s leading hospitality and food service providers. Its family of companies includes Delaware North Companies Parks & Resorts, Delaware North Companies Gaming & Entertainment, Delaware North Companies Travel Hospitality Services, Delaware North Companies Sportservice, Delaware North Companies International and Delaware North Companies Boston, owner of TD Banknorth Garden (soon to be renamed TD Garden). Delaware North Companies is one of the largest privately held companies in the United States with revenues exceeding $2 billion annually and 50,000 associates serving half a billion customers in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand. For more information, visit www.DelawareNorth.com.

{Extraneous Deleted}

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Austin, Kevin [MC????]

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Dear John,

    I believe that Kevin is a member of the Class of 1985.

    Mike

[JR: Thanks, Mike. Much appreciated. ]

Austin, Kevin [MC1985]

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    * Posted on: Tue, Apr 21 2009 4:35 PM
    * Updated: Thu, Apr 23 2009 2:07 PM



JNews: Iannucci, Ernest [MC????] gets NJ PE

http://nyrej.com/31307

NEW YORK REAL ESTATE JOURNAL

Manzella, Iannucci and Nemick of H2M get N.J. professional engineers license

*** begin quote ***

Melville, NY According to H2M, Joseph Manzella, P.E., LEED AP; Ernest Iannucci, P.E., LEED AP and Nikolas Nemick, P.E., LEED AP have all received the N.J. professional engineers license and are now licensed in both N.Y. and N.J. All three are also LEED Accredited Professionals from the U.S. Green Building Council.  

“H2M is proud of Joe, Ernie and Nik’s achievement. Obtaining the N.J. professional engineer’s license is an important step toward broadening H2M’s presence in the tri-state area,” said Jeff Czajka, PE, LEED AP, MEP sivision sirector. “Being LEED accredited professionals will also allow H2M to provide sustainable design services to our clients.”  

{Extraneous Deleted}

* Iannucci has been with the firm since 2001, manages the electrical engineering department and has demonstrated excellent technical talent and production capability. Iannucci responsibilities include directing the preparation of specifications and plans for the design electrical systems for commercial, industrial, educational and municipal facilities. Iannucci has a bachelor of science in Electrical Engineering from Manhattan College.

{Extraneous Deleted}

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Iannucci, Ernest [MC????]

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    * Posted on: Tue, Apr 21 2009 7:38 PM



JEmail: Keenan, John F. [MC1951] speaks to MC Thomas More Law 4/21 PM

FROM FACEBOOK

Kelly Dantuono sent a message to the members of Manhattan College Thomas More Law Society.

——————–

Hello Everyone! TOMORROW NIGHT is our last BIG event of the year (besides the trip to brooklyn and last meeting)

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Honorable Judge John F. Keenan ’51 Speaker

***Starting at 6pm there will be refreshments and time to network with the alumni coming-it is a GREAT opportunity…so look NICE and don’t miss out!!!!!

From:7:00 – 8:00 p.m there will be the judge speaking.

He will discuss his over 25-year career as a federal court judge and how his Manhattan College education has been of value to him.

ALUMNI ROOM-LIBRARY

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Keenan, John F. [MC1951]

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    * Posted on: Tue, Apr 21 2009 8:29 PM



MObit: Taylor, Mark [MCfac] 

http://www.legacy.com/NYTimes/DeathNotices.asp?Page=LifeStory&PersonId=126494785

Mark Taylor

TAYLOR–Mark, 70, Professor of English at Manhattan College and leading Shakespearean scholar, died April 14th of a brain aneurysm. He grew up in North Tarrytown, graduated from Yale, and earned a Ph.D. from the Graduate Center, CUNY. Mourned by his wife of 46 years, Professor Anya Taylor; sons, Andrew (Kristin) and Nicholas; and five grandchildren. Remembered by generations of students from Manhattan College, where he was known for 40 years as a fiercely intelligent, witty, and dedicated teacher. Author of The Soul in Paraphrase (1974), a study of the poet George Herbert; Shakespeare’s Darker Purpose: A Question of Incest (1982); and Shakespeare’s Imitations (2002), a Choice Outstanding Academic Title (2003). Memorial service May 9th, 3pm, Manhattan College. Contributions may be sent to the Mark Taylor Memorial Fund, Office of Planned Giving, Manhattan College, Bronx, NY 10471.

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Taylor, Mark [MCfac]

[JR: Mindful of the service of good men and women that comprise the Jasper "forge", making us what we are, we remember these good people.]

Guestbook: http://tinyurl.com/c8t8y9

[JR: While this is "old news", I posted it so that those interested might be aware of the "guest book". That would be a "goodness" to let the family know they are in our thoughts prayers.]

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    * Posted on: Wed, Apr 22 2009 9:37 AM



JEmail: McCarra-Fitzpatrick, MaryAnn (MC1989) has a son Brendan Walsh

From MaryAnn McCarra-Fitzpatrick, MC 1989, Arts and Sciences:

We are very pleased to announce the birth of Brendan Walsh Fitzpatrick at 3:18 p.m. on 20th April 2009, weighing in at eight pounds, zero ounces, and measuring twenty-one and one-half inches in length!!!

With our best,
Mark, MaryAnn, Aidan, and Conor Fitzpatrick

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    * Posted on: Wed, Apr 22 2009 8:23 PM



JNews: Mawn, Theresa (MC2001) gets a PhD in Bio-Engineering

Subject: Theresa Mawn, MC, EE, ‘01

Theresa Mawn has been awarded her PhD in Bio-Engineering from University of Pennsylvania and will graduate on May 17th.

[JR: And a hearty well done. Impressive!]

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    * Posted on: Wed, Apr 22 2009 8:28 PM



MNews: Senior Farewell- Latino Style 4/23 PM

PLEASE POST ON YOUR SITES AND MC GROUPS, THANKS,MK

Senior Farewell- Latino Style

for the Class of 2009

IBIZA LOUNGE

Just off-campus, on Manhattan College Parkway

Thursday, April 23, 2009

6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Come and celebrate with seniors and alumni your last few weeks at Manhattan as you transition from being an Undergraduate to an Alumnus of Manhattan college.

FREE ADMISSION FOR MC SENIORS (21+ only)

AND ALUMNI

Admission includes great music, munchies & beverages

Alcohol available for purchase

To accurately plan for all student guests, please pick up your free ticket

Thursday, April 16th- Wednesday, April 22nd from the Student Activities Office (Thomas 501)

Alumni please RSVP to

THOMAS A. MCCARTHY

Assistant Director

Manhattan College Alumni Relations

Phone: (718) 862-7454 | Fax: (718) 862-8013 | Mobile: (914) 643-1271

thomas.mccarthy@manhattan.edu

SPONSORED BY:

MANHATTAN’S ALUMNI SOCIETY, MANHATTAN COLLEGE LATINO ALUMNI CLUB (MCLAC) & STUDENT ACTIVITIES

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    * Posted on: Thu, Apr 23 2009 11:37 AM



JEmail: Moore, Kevin (MC1980) remembers Dr. Mark Taylor

Dear CIC,

  I was saddened to learn of the death of Dr. Mark Taylor in Jasper Jottings. He was the Chairman of the English Literature Department while I attended Manhattan. He was a wit with a great sense of humor. He taught the Shakespeare course and made it come alive for his students. I fondly remember upon upcoming graduation ceremonies, he asked all the English majors to fill out a form indicating what they would be doing after receiving their degrees. On my form I wrote that I would be actively engaged in seeking gainful employment. When Dr. Taylor saw this he exclaimed “Not another one! I wish just one of you guys could get a job tasting beer for Budweiser or something!” May he rest in peace.

Kevin Moore
B. A. 1980

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[JR: Thanks for the great remembrance. Although, "beer tasting for Bud" would be fate worse then death for the fine beer "kinda-sewers" of the injineering school. We injineers have taste. Now, "Lowerin Brow" in Germany. That would be a job!]

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    * Posted on: Thu, Apr 23 2009 11:49 AM



JFound: Jasper “Key West Lou” [MC????] remembers a unique class

http://www.keywestlou.com/2009/04/there-was-quiet-that-hung-over-us-as-we.html

My Life in Key West
Thursday, April 23, 2009

*** begin quote ***

Keresnsky, overthrown by the Reds, had to to flee Russia to save his life.

He ultimately settled in New York City and eventualy became a Professor at Columbia University.

I attended Manhattan College in New York City. Columbia and Manhattan are on the Seventh Ave subway line. Columbia at 116th Street and Manhattan at 242nd Street.

Kerensky agreed to be a visiting professor at Manhatttan College for one semester. To teach Russian history covering the 20 years from 1898 to 1918. The 20 years leading up to the Russian revolution and the revolution itself. He rode the subway 2 times a week from Columbia to Manhattan and back to teach the course.

The class was limited. About 20 persons. I was lucky to get into it! I was excited to take the course. I was a history major and what could be better than to take a course from an individual who had actually lived the material he was teaching!

The course was fantastic! Wild! Overwhelming at times if you were a history freak as I was. Here was a man who led the revolution! And a man who understood the consequences of communism. Recognize that I was taking this course around 1955, a time when the United States and Russia were in deep conflict. The threat of actual war hung over us. About this same time Kruschev, the then Russian leader, took his shoe off at the United Nations, slammed it on a desk and told the world Russia was going to bury the United States. The conflict was reality!

Kerensky was distinguished appearing. He had presence. Soft spoken. If I had to compare him physically to someone, I would say he looked like a white haired Jack Kennedy.

*** end quote ***

Posted by Key West Lou at 5:57 AM

*** and ***

Key West Lou
    * Age: 73
    * Gender: Male
    * Astrological Sign: Cancer
    * Zodiac Year: Boar
    * Occupation: Retired to Paradise
    * Location: Key West : Florida : United States

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Jasper “Key West Lou” [MC????]

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    * Posted on: Thu, Apr 23 2009 3:21 PM



JObit: Wagner, Francis (Frank) V. [MC????]

http://www.palisadespost.com/content/index.cfm?Story_ID=4804

Frank Wagner, Computer Engineer, Entrepreneur

April 23, 2009

Francis (Frank) V. Wagner, a dynamic member of the community for more than 60 years, died of natural causes on the morning of his 93rd birthday, April 15, at his home in Pacific Palisades.

Born in 1916 in New York City, Frank graduated from Regis High School in New York and received bachelor’s and master’s degrees in civil engineering from Manhattan College. He began his career in 1938 designing barges but quickly switched to the budding new industry of aeronautical engineering in 1944. That year, he moved with his wife, Ginny, to Southern California to help design the first jet fighter plane for North American Aviation. Subsequently, he worked on the X-15, which set world records. He moved his family to Pacific Palisades in 1947.

Frank entered the computer field with North American Aviation, as this was one of the first industries to widely use mainframe computers to solve engineering problems. He eventually took the lead at NAA’s computer division. He also became one of the first adjunct instructors at UCLA to teach computer concepts to engineering students because nobody on the faculty had this knowledge.

Showing his entrepreneurial spirit, Frank joined with four other individuals to create Informatics, Inc., a software company that grew to be the largest independent software company in the world before it went through a series of acquisitions. He was the senior executive vice president of Informatics, and served on the board of directors for many years.

  In the early days of NASA, Frank succeeded in placing Informatics in partnership with another computer vendor (IBM) for our space program. When Informatics was sold to a public company, he jumped at the chance to become an underwriter for Lloyds of London after it opened its doors to U.S. investors. Frank was virtually a prototype for today’s ‘change your career many times’ generation. He finally retired at the age 70 but remained active for another 20 years.

  In his community life, Frank was equally dynamic. He and Ginny were founding parishioners of Corpus Christi Catholic Church. When the Palisades Recreation Center first opened, he began coaching in the youth baseball association. His teams never won a championship, but ‘Daddy Wags’ was selected a number of times to coach an all-star team.

  Frank was committed to his Catholic faith, actively serving in his parish and beyond for many years as a lector, usher and one of the first lay Eucharistic ministers. He served on many committees at Corpus Christi and was a founder of its Legion of Mary. In recognition of his service and commitment to the Catholic Church, Frank was given a pontifical decoration in 2006: the Benemerenti Award. He was also elected as a Knight of Saint Gregory.

  An avid golfer and bridge player, Frank was also a voracious reader of books on a variety of topics even before his retirement. He enjoyed leisure travel and toured the world numerous times with his wife, Ginny, usually aboard a luxury ocean liner. He enjoyed good food and excellent wines and, together with Ginny, hosted monthly potlucks at their house for decades.

Frank was predeceased by Ginny Wagner, his wife of 67 years, who died last October at the age of 92. He is survived by his three children: Trina Pate (husband Bud) of Pacific Palisades, and twin sons, Michael (wife Jolon) of Los Altos Hills and Frank (wife Karen) of West Lynn, Oregon. He also leaves behind six grandchildren and eight great-grandsons.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 25, at Corpus Christi Church.

In lieu of flowers, please say a prayer for the eternal repose of Francis V. Wagner’s soul. His family hopes that in the spirit of Frank’s life and memory, someone will be inclined to ‘pay it forward’ by choosing to act charitably, contributing their time or talents to those in need.

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Wagner, Francis (Frank) V. [MC????]

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    * Posted on: Thu, Apr 23 2009 3:40 PM



JNews: Berry, Robert [MC1953] Space Systems/Loral CEO retires

http://www.globenewswire.com/newsroom/news.html?d=163576

Photo Release — Space Systems/Loral Announces Retirement of Former Chairman and President, Robert Berry

PALO ALTO, Calif., April 22, 2009 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Space Systems/Loral, a subsidiary of Loral Space & Communications (Nasdaq:LORL) and the world’s leading provider of commercial satellites, today announced the retirement of former chairman and president, Robert Berry. Mr. Berry, whose career spanned the company’s transition from Philco-Ford to Ford Aerospace and then Space Systems/Loral (SS/L), currently consults with both government and commercial interests to explore new applications arising from combining satellite, wireless, and fibered transmission.

A photo accompanying this release is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/newsroom/prs/?pkgid=6097

During retirement, Mr. Berry intends to continue influencing the satellite industry. “While this marks my official retirement from SS/L, I intend to stay involved in the industry,” said Mr. Berry. “My hope is to continue making a contribution to the ongoing expansion of satellite capabilities and satellite services.”

With a space industry career that launched in 1957, Robert Berry played a fundamental role in the creation of today’s commercial satellite business. Under his leadership, SS/L developed some of the world’s most innovative communications and meteorological satellite projects for defense, civil, and commercial applications. Mr. Berry was instrumental in providing three generations of satellite platforms to Intelsat, helping the intergovernmental consortium provide fixed satellite services to more than 149 countries, territories, and dependencies.

“Bob has truly inspired many at SS/L including myself,” said Pat DeWitt, chief executive officer, Space Systems/Loral. “His contribution over the years to our company and the worldwide satellite industry will not be forgotten.”

The recipient of multiple awards, Mr. Berry was inducted into the Silicon Valley Engineering Hall of Fame in February 2009 for his outstanding professional achievement and significant contributions to the Silicon Valley community. In 2007, he was inducted into the Society of Satellite Professionals International (SSPI) Hall of Fame and he received the ISCe Lifetime achievement award. In 2003, he received the Arthur C. Clarke Foundation Award for his leadership, creative engineering, and management role in the design and launch of more than 170 satellites. In 1996, Mr. Berry was selected for the Aerospace Communications Award of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA). He was named a Fellow of the AIAA in 1999, and he holds a Life Membership in the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE).

A native of Atlantic City, N.J., Mr. Berry earned his bachelor of science degree from the Science School of Manhattan College in 1953 and a master’s degree in economics from the University of Pennsylvania in 1958.

About Space Systems/Loral

Based in Palo Alto, California, SS/L designs and builds satellites and spacecraft systems for commercial and government customers around the world. As the leading provider of commercial satellites, the company works closely with satellite operators to deliver spacecraft for a broad range of services including direct-to-home television, digital audio radio, broadband Internet, and digital multimedia broadcasting. With more power on orbit than any other satellite manufacturer, SS/L helps customers meet business objectives with advanced solutions based on space-proven heritage designs. For more information, visit www.ssloral.com.

About Loral Space & Communications

Loral Space & Communications is a satellite communications company. Through its Space Systems/Loral subsidiary, the company is a world-class leader in the design and manufacture of satellites and satellite systems for commercial and government applications including direct-to-home television, broadband communications, wireless telephony, weather monitoring and air traffic management. Loral also owns 64 percent of Telesat Canada, one of the world’s largest providers of satellite services. Telesat Canada operates a fleet of telecommunications satellites used to broadcast video entertainment programming, distribute direct-to-home video and broadband data services, and other value-added communications services. For more information, visit Loral’s web site at www.loral.com.

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Berry, Robert [MC1953]

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    * Posted on: Thu, Apr 23 2009 3:47 PM



JNews: Drohan, Ed [MC????] runs for Sag Harbor BOE

http://sagharborexpress.sagharborpublishing.com/shexpress/letters-to-the-editor/letters-april-23-2009-2767

Examining School Issues

Dear Editor,

My name is Ed Drohan. I have been a summer resident of Sag Harbor since 1978 and mived peranntly (sic) into our residence here in Decembe of 2006. My three children were raised here in Noyac during the summers of their childhood and my family has always loved this community. Two of my children make their home in the Hamptons. My oldest son lives in Sag Harbor with his wife and our two-year-old grandson, who will attend local schools sometime in the future. We have become transplanted summer residents after 28 years of enjoyment and beautiful memories here in the community.

In the last two years I have been active in the Noyac Civic Council and I serve on their educational committee. I have attended almost all board of education meetings over the last year and six months ago was appointed to the Budget Advisory Committee (BAC). The Noyac Civic Council is a community organization, not a special interest political group. The council does not endorse candidates, and I would not accept their endorsement if offered. I feel it would be compromising to all concerned. I am running on a completely independent basis. An examination of my qualifications and agenda will bring clarity to my position with the voters.

I am a graduate of Gorton High School in Yonkers, N.Y., and I have a Bachelor of Science degree from Manhattan College. I have a business background and have spent over forty years in the data processing industry. I have been a salesman, district manager, sales and marketing vice president, general manager, consultant, business owner and general partner at various stages of my career. Currently I work as a partner for an information technology corporation that does subcontracting and project assignments for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and staff augmentation placements for end users.

I spent seven years as a consulting vendor manager for a large international bank and during that assignment organized and then chaired a group known as the New York Technology Round Table, composed of mostly financial service firms to compare best practices through shared data and benchmarking efforts. Some of the efforts of the BAC are dedicated to benchmarking with other educational systems in order to compare best practices and achieve cost and quality educational efficiency. To that end I feel uniquely qualified to serve on the school board.

The following highlights my agenda as a prospective member of the Sag Harbor BOE:

• Foster a positive mindset in the school district and bring the entire community into the education process.

• Take advantage of the wealth of experience within our 20 percent senior population.

• Advance the school district to recognize the 50 percent population of second home owner taxpayer base to participate in summer programs and student activities and be an ambassador of the town’s good will to this valuable asset who over time may transition into permanent residents of our community.

• Initiate benchmarks that compare and analyze the taxpayer base with the demographics of other school districts. This could be the beginning of real fiduciary responsibility. The financial success of our community is strongly linked to the business of the community. We are a vacation, recreational community, dependent on a strong summer seasonal business for our success. If the school district played a stronger role in recognizing and communicating with this valuable taxpayer base, the district could be indirectly adding needed support to our local business efforts.

• Encourage the school board to work harder through various committee and mindsets to deliver serious benchmarks to the educational system that will guide future strategy. Cost comparing information in exchange with other districts can be invaluable to all participants.

• Overhaul and transition the curriculum, preparing our students to be lifelong learners. This is, after all, the centerpiece of our mission statement. In the 2001-2008 seven-year time frame, the district budget grew from $13 million to over $26 million, while the enrollment was relatively flat. In 2008/2009, per pupil expense exceeds $30,000. The elective curriculum now exceeds 40 programs. We must realize we are in the midst of an information revolution, with bilingual skills a necessity in the future work force. More focus must be placed on computer science, language arts, Spanish and an upgrade and expansion of BOCES training programs.

• Bring about a slow and reasonable transition driven by a human resource effort in strategic planning, that would encourage the advanced training of teachers in multiple subject skills with improved incentive for teachers with course versatility. I would hope to increase student load and class size slowly with quality performance checks and balances along the way. This increased efficiency could justify the growth of the previously stated programs necessary to the district.

• Promote transparency. I, along with the rest of the public, would like to know the true role of the teachers’ union, TASH, in the Sag Harbor School District. I believe in the union practice of defending their teachers against injustice and support the union in their activity to negotiate equitably for their members in contract efforts. However, I feel there is a line that should not be crossed and that the administration should be able to manage the business of the school district unencumbered by any special interest barriers. I would hope that when these negotiations are over, there would be a forum sponsored by the school board, in conjunction with TASH, open to the public. The community needs an answer to this new and expensive contract in these trying economic times.

I encourage the Sag Harbor community to vote for me based on the principles I represent and issues I intend to address.

Thank you.

Sincerely,

Ed Drohan

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Drohan, Ed [MC????]

[JR: Too late to get the word out to the alumni. Maybe he won?]

[JR: Bad "luck" (I'm paranoid!) to have two typos in the first sentence. I'd like to debate: strategically, if government education is a good idea or is it propagandizing future voters in big government is good; and tactically, as the owner of a vacation home paying double education taxes in NJ, isn't that taxation without representation? Argh!].

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    * Posted on: Fri, Apr 24 2009 9:52 AM



JNews: McKenna, Sr. Ann [MC????] honored for fifty years of service

http://thericatholic.com/stories/2095.html

Church honors jubilarians for joy-filled ministries
Posted Apr 23, 2009

*** begin quote ***

PROVIDENCE — Eighteen women and men religious in the Diocese of Providence are celebrating anniversaries of their ministries this year.

They will be honored on Sunday, April 26, at the 10 a.m. Mass in the Cathedral of SS. Peter and Paul, Providence.

Bishop Thomas J. Tobin will preside, and Father W.P. Marquis, O.P. from Providence College will deliver the homily. A reception for the jubilarians and their guests will follow in the Cathedral hall.

The annual jubilee celebration is sponsored by the diocesan Office for Religious and the Council of Religious.

{Extraneous Deleted}

50 years

{Extraneous Deleted}

Sister Ann McKenna, RSM, a native of Providence who grew up in Warwick, entered the Sisters of Mercy on September 8, 1959, at Mount St. Rita Novitiate in Cumberland, and pronounced her first vows on August 16, 1962. She completed her undergraduate degree in English at Salve Regina University and her masters degree in theology at Manhattan College in New York. Sister McKenna taught in schools in Rhode Island, Belize, Honduras and Belgium. In addition to teaching, she ministered in religious education programs in Alaska and served as a member of the team ministry at Sacred Heart Parish in Pawtucket for eight years. Sister McKenna has been involved in many aspects of the work of the Sisters of Mercy including membership on the Central American Coalition, the Mercy Elementary Education Network, the Woman’s Ritual group and the Mercy Sponsorship Office which oversees sponsored ministries of the Sisters of Mercy. Sister McKenna was the founding principal of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Academy, Central Falls. Her present full-time ministry is teaching Spanish at Our Lady of Mercy School in East Greenwich.

*** end quote ***

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McKenna, Sr. Ann [MC????]

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    * Posted on: Fri, Apr 24 2009 9:57 AM



MEmail: Predmore, Carolyn (MCfac) Unity Walk Parkinson’s Saturday Central Park

Email from Carolyn Predmore

*** begin quote ***

Hi John,

Hope you enjoy this weekend. I am joining Dr. Dick FitzPatrick and his team at the Unity Walk for Parkinson’s on Saturday in Central Park. It should be gorgeous and I really like seeing Dick’s family every year.

This is a walk that I have done with Dick FitzPatrick (Management) for several years. We start at the Band Shell at 1 pm and do a 2 mile circuit at a reasonable walking pace. If anyone would like to join us, please do, all are welcome.

Carolyn

*** end quote ***

[JR: I'm sure any Jasper that shows up would be welcome. Any one, who wants to contribute, can.]

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    * Posted on: Fri, Apr 24 2009 9:53 PM



MNews: MC and its “hotel”

http://riverdalepress.com/full.php?sid=8364&current_edition=2009-04-23

Manhattan College gives incentive to stay on campus
By Kate Pastor

*** begin quote ***

Samantha Kotch, a sophomore at Manhattan College, lives in a dorm on campus this year, but had hoped to move into her own apartment for her junior year.

That’s no longer possible for her.

The college has sent out letters saying that, starting next fall, it will give 20 percent less financial assistance to every student who moves off campus.

Commuter students have always received smaller packages than their on-campus counterparts, and the student handbook has always contained a provision for decreasing aid if a student moves out of the dorms, says the school. But until now, the college gave students who slipped off campus a break.

Those days have come to an end, and Ms. Kotch is on the losing end of a battle to live, as she sees it, like a grownup.

“My mom wasn’t so keen on getting an apartment anyway, but now it’s completely out of the option,” she said.

{Extraneous Deleted}

According to Thomas Ryan, Manhattan College’s vice president for finance, before the new dorm was built, the college rented out space in the nearby apartment buildings because only 1400 students could be housed on campus. Those contracts were terminated last June when the new building opened, he said. And there are still more than 400 vacancies in campus dorms.

So the college will no longer financially enable those who choose to move.

“The college gets hit a double whammy and the student makes out very well.” said Mr. Ryan.

*** end quote ***

[JR: A well written view of how MC is really running a hotel inside a school. Must be a real balancing act.]

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    * Posted on: Sat, Apr 25 2009 9:49 AM



JObit: Scala, Anthony J. Sr. [MC????]

http://www.legacy.com/NYTimes/DeathNotices.asp?Page=LifeStory&PersonId=126568034

Anthony J. Scala Sr.

SCALA–Anthony J. Sr., of Vero Beach, Florida, and long time resident of Harrison, NY, passed away on April 22nd at the age of 85. Mr. Scala was born in New York City on August 24th 1923. He graduated from Manhattan College and was a lieutenant in the US Navy serving in the Pacific during World War II. Mr. Scala retired from Lowy & Donnath, an electrical construction firm in New York City, in 2002 and served as president for over 40 years. He was a registered Professional Engineer in New York, New Jersey, and Idaho. He is survived by his four sons: Anthony Jr. (Mary Ellen) of Port Chester, James (Deborah) of Harrison, Peter (Joyce) of Massachusetts and Christopher (Kerry) of Harrison, his 13 grandchildren and his wife Jadwiga. He was predeceased by his wife Helen and son William. Visiting hours will be at Graham Funeral Home, 1036 Boston Post Rd., Rye, NY, on Sunday from 2-4, 7-9, with the funeral mass on Monday at 11am at St. Gregory the Great Church in Harrison.

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Scala, Anthony J. Sr.  [MC????]  

Guestbook: http://tinyurl.com/d2hhr7

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    * Posted on: Sat, Apr 25 2009 9:59 AM



JObit: Carey, Colleen [MC2009]

http://www.nytimes.com/2004/05/22/nyregion/about-new-york-in-the-bronx-a-graduation-with-honor.html?partner=rssnyt&emc=rss

About New York; In the Bronx, A Graduation With Honor
By DAN BARRY
Published: Saturday, May 22, 2004

*** begin quote ***

KATHLEEN MERCADANTE took her place in the second pew of the main chapel at Manhattan College, joining the cap-and-gown sea of men and women about to receive a diploma. Cameras whirred and clicked in the back of the room, while outside, rain clouds parted for the sun to bless a graduation day in the Bronx.

On one side of the center aisle sat dozens of young adults waiting to receive master’s degrees in education and engineering. And on the other side, people in their 30’s, 40’s and 50’s, a few with gray hair beneath their caps, and old enough to be the parents of those in gowns to their right.

These older graduates had finished Manhattan’s Adult Degree Completion Program, which is intended for people who once began but never finished their college careers, because of children or hardship or just life. According to its director, Jeff Katz, the program helps people to ”complete what has been unfinished.”

{Extraneous Deleted}

”Colleen Carey.”

Ms. Mercadante remained still, her face set in an expression that said I will not cry, as Mr. Katz explained that Colleen Carey had died — and that Kathleen Mercadante would be accepting the diploma for her older sister, Colleen, college graduate.

Colleen Carey died last June, suddenly, of diabetes; she was 42. She loved to cycle and to golf and to tell jokes. She loved taking her nieces and nephew to concerts and plays. She loved helping her neighbors, so it was only natural that when one of them became ill, she treated him to takeout and cared for his cats. Oh, and she loved cats.

Colleen especially loved education, no matter how life often sidetracked her pursuit of a college degree. Little by little, though, she collected credits at local colleges, and when she learned that Manhattan’s adult program was being made available to employees at the Entergy Corporation, where she worked as a manager, she seized the opportunity.

”She always wanted to better herself,” her sister said. ”She wanted more. And I guess she knew that without her bachelor’s degree, it wasn’t going to happen.”

COLLEEN constantly emphasized the importance of an education to her family, and supported her younger sister’s decision to pursue an associate’s degree. But Ms. Mercadante had to drop out.

”There were just a few too many things going on,” she said. ”I finally had to say, which ball am I running with today? School will have to wait. But I’ll pick it up again when the time is right.”

When finally Ms. Mercadante stepped forward to accept her sister’s degree, she felt gratitude to Manhattan College, for making the moment possible. She felt admiration for all the people around her who had worked so hard. She felt pride in her sister’s accomplishment, and a little angry. More than anything, she wanted to be in the gallery, snapping photographs of Colleen in cap and gown.

{Extraneous Deleted}

*** end quote ***

[JR: A well written poignant story. Too many times we over look these opportunities to motivate ourselves with the life stories of our fellow Jaspers. Too soon we get old; too soon we get smart about what really matters. THis story struck me because usually I do obits for Jaspers who graduate and then some number of years later, they die. This fellow alum is unique in getting the order reversed. Hopefully, we can learn to tackle the important stuff early in life.]

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    * Posted on: Sat, Apr 25 2009 12:04 PM



ENDNOTE: It’s not “war”; it was murder

April 25, 2009 

http://www.wired.com/science/discoveries/news/2009/03/dayintech_0309

March 9, 1945: Burning the Heart Out of the Enemy from Wired Top Stories by Tony Long

*** begin quote ***

1945: In the single deadliest air raid of World War II, 330 American B-29s rain incendiary bombs on Tokyo, touching off a firestorm that kills upwards of 100,000 people, burns a quarter of the city to the ground, and leaves a million homeless.

*** and ***

Tokyo immediately burst into flames. The combination of incendiaries, the way they were dropped, windy weather conditions and lack of coordinated firefighting on the ground resulted in a firestorm similar to what occurred two years previously in Hamburg, and only a month before in Dresden. Temperatures on the ground in Tokyo reached 1,800 degrees in some places.

The human carnage was appalling; bomber crews coming in near the tail end of the raid reported smelling the stench of charred human flesh as they passed over the burning capital.

*** and ***

The firebombing campaign, coupled with the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, are believed to have killed more than 1 million Japanese civilians between March and August of 1945.

*** end quote ***

[JR: My Dad, an XO on a LCI, got to Japan and saw some of the destruction. He didn't talk much about it, except if he had a large supply of adult refreshment. I can remember one "discussion" with an uncle who was a WW1 vet. Before I got shoved out, I remember him saying: "there's no excuse for murder. it wasn't war." Anytime, I read these descriptions I think of that personal testimony. And, as I wrote in my book: "How can one human being do this to another?" Sadly.]

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    * Posted on: Sat, Apr 25 2009 12:04 PM


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"Bon courage a vous tous"

"Dona Nobis Pacem"

-30-