Alumni News & Notes

NOTE: If you have news or notes about alums, please email Brad Stone '03, CBC High School's Director of Alumni Relations, at [email protected].

John D. McCormick '70

John D. McCormick '70 started his professional career as a disc jockey at a small country western radio station in western Kentucky, but he found his calling in the audio engineering field, eventually traveling the world working on documentaries before transitioning into working as a sound mix in episodic TV production in New York City for 20 years.

McCormick shared some of his memories from CBC, challenges navigating his professional career and a lesson learned from his history teacher, Mr. Findley:

My four years at CBC were a combination of academic challenges and comradery with my fellow classmates. During my junior year I had a remedial reading class in the school library. (A few years later it was established that I suffered from dyslexia.) I believe it was Brother Benjamin who was in charge of the library and my class. I had groused about my lack of academic abilities to him. He let me finish and then said; "John, we are the Christian Brothers, not the Jesuits. The Jesuits only want A and B students in their high school. Yes, we want A and B students. But we also want C students. We want students who are fighting for everything they can get. Why? Because the A and B students get lost in their thoughts and the C students are more grounded." I interrupted him and said, "OK, Brother. I will make sure that the A and B students get to their chemistry lab and then I will come to my remedial reading class."

As Brother Benjamin was speaking with me, I could see a book on the shelf behind his head. The title read; "Yes I Can." Brother Benjamin moved on, and I took the book off the shelf. The author of "Yes I Can" was Mr. Sammy Davis Jr. In my house Mr. Davis was very much respected for his incredible talents. My sister Mary Clare had a record album he recorded live from a casino in Las Vagas. I checked the book out. When I went back into the main school building, I stopped and admired the statue of St. John the Baptist de La Salle that was in the quadrangle. That night I started reading Mr. Davis's book. It took him from his early days in Harlem, NYC, to being on the road performing in Vaudeville with his parents and family. He was challenged many times throughout his life because of his race. He lost an eye when he was forced off a highway in one of the western states by a man who hated him for marrying a woman from Sweden. I was very impressed with his story and my takeaway is that Mr. Davis never quit. He would not buckle under. So, I thought to myself, I have teachers, parents and family on my side. I must not give in to my problems. I must try harder. I did and was able to graduate in the spring of 1970. Saint Louis University admitted me on "probation." I was given a semester to prove that I could compete.

College turned out much better that I could have hoped for. My GPA was 2.6 for the fall and 3.4 for the spring semesters. My family moved to Long Island, NY, after my freshman year and I was able to transfer to Hofstra University for my last three years. Upon graduating with a degree in Communications in 1974, I went to western Kentucky as a disc jockey at a small Country Western radio station, and one year later was in Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania. Because I was required to read "cold news copy" my dyslexia got in my way. I returned to Long Island and started my second career at a film mixing studio in NYC. I learned how to do many forms of Mag Transfers. It was my entry into the audio engineering world. After 2 1/2 years I was laid off. I caught a break, and, in the summer of 1979, I was a Summer Relief board operator at WABC-AM and WPLJ-FM in NYC. It got me started with the NABET union that represented the engineers.

All went well. But when I went back in December to apply for the summer of 1980, the head of engineering said, "John, don't bother to fill out an application. I won't even look at it. We must meet our Affirmative Action goals." I was totally bummed out. However, I reflected back to my summer work while a student at CBC. After my freshman and sophomore years I worked at the Brentwood Steak N' Shake making the shakes and other drinks. In the summer after my sophomore year a fellow CBC student named Stanley was working the "Bun Toaster." Stanley was African American, and he had just completed his freshman year.

There was a local businessman who would eat lunch at the counter. He would always have a Coke, light on the ice, to drink. One day he sat on the other side of the coke machine. I was pouring drinks, and he said to me, "The complexion is getting darker around here." I looked at him and said nothing and kept working. He said it a second time. I kept working. After a few minutes he said it a third time and nodded over my right shoulder. I turned, saw Stanley, and said, "That's Stanley." This was in the summer of 1968. Our African American citizens were having "sit-ins" at Woolworth's and other department stores, for the right to eat lunch in public. Now here I was in 1979 not able to apply for work because of my race. Was it fair to me? Absolutely not. However, I remembered that businessman and realized that Affirmative Action policies were necessary. If this man thought that he should not have to see a young black man working while he ate lunch, what chance would a black person have in working at his company? Absolutely none!

My mind went back to Sammy Davis: I can't quit the business. I was introduced to "freelance" film production. It took a couple of years, but I was able to start earning a good living. I also got to travel. I went from Antarctica to Greenland, Asia to Europe, and all over the US on various documentaries. After 16 years in documentaries, I was able to become the sound mixer in episodic TV production in NYC for the next 20 years.

Brother Benjaman and Sammy Davis gave me the right "Pep Talk" at just the right time in my life. CBC was very good for establishing the need for personal discipline and organization. I was most fortunate to have been a student there in the late 1960s.

When it comes to a specific "lesson learned" from one of our CBC teachers I always remember Mr. Findley, my history teacher. I have shared this story quite a lot lately. We are not talking with one another enough.

In December of 1969 in Mr. Findley's history class, he divided the class down the middle. One side was told to read that weeks' Time Magazine. The other half was assigned U.S. News and World Report. The following week he called upon both sides to give reviews from the same national stories: Vietnam coverage and other political and social stories from the US. After eight or 10 reviews from each side he said to us: "Gentlemen, do you see what is happening here? The preceding week events took place; they were covered by two sets of reporters. Now Time Magazine is considered politically liberal and US News politically conservative. It's great to be a liberal and fine to be a conservative. But you might want to read how the other side thinks so that you can sit down and talk to them about it." I have been referencing this anecdote for the last few years. Right now, I think we need more Mr. Findley in America!

Honoring John Wilbur Grutsch '63 and our CBC Brothers who made the ultimate sacrifice

John Wilbur Grutsch was born in 1945 in Brentwood, Missouri, where his family were members of St. Mary Magdalen Parish. Following his father, a 1937 graduate, he attended Christian Brothers College High School from 1959 to 1963 and was a member of the soccer and track teams all four years. He graduated from CBC on June 2, 1963. He received a soccer scholarship to Lewis College in Romeoville, Illinois. However, after a year he returned home and attended Meramec Community College until he was drafted into the U.S. Army. Upon completing basic training, he was recommended for Officer’s Candidate School and was promoted to 2nd Lieutenant in 1967 and in July of that year, he married his wife, Marleen. After only seven months of marriage he was assigned to C Company, 2nd Battalion, 1st Infantry of the 196th Infantry Brigade, Americal Division, Vietnam. Just three short months later, on May 9, 1968, he was killed in action. He was 23 years old. He died as a result of a hostile artillery, rocket, and mortar attack in Thua Thien Province, Vietnam. He earned the Combat Infantryman and Marksmanship Badges and was awarded a Bronze Star, a Purple Heart, the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, an Army Presidential Unit Citation, and the Vietnam Gallantry Cross. He was posthumously promoted to 1st Lieutenant. He is buried in the Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery and his name is inscribed on the national Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington DC.

“To the perpetual memory of these gallant C.B.C. heroes who generously laid down their lives for God and country, this memorial is reverently erected. May they rest in peace.”

This is the dedication engraved on the top of a memorial to our fallen heroes located on the CBC campus. First Lieutenant John Grutsch is remembered on this memorial. He is one of 45 CBC graduates who having sacrificed their lives in service to our country during wartime are recognized on the CBC War Memorial. Those recognized range from the earliest veteran, a 1931 graduate who died in WWII, to the most recent two, both 1967 graduates killed in the Vietnam War.

The CBC memorial was originally dedicated in 1946 upon being erected at the behest of the Fathers’ Club and was located on the Clayton Road school campus. There was a rededication ceremony on November 11, 1998 when nine names were added. In 2003, when the school relocated to its current Town and Country location, the monument was moved to the new campus, sponsored by the Class of 1951. It was specifically situated in a very prominent place at the end of the main entrance driveway where a majority of the students, faculty, and staff pass it going into and out of the school every day. A parent or guardian dropping off or picking up a student passes it while making the U turn to exit the school grounds. The north parking lot, the school’s largest, is behind the Memorial and anyone entering or leaving the school who access this parking lot passes by the Memorial. This location was strategically and deliberately situated so that it would be observed by most anyone on the school grounds as a constant acknowledgement of the debt that is owed to those CBC alums whose names are on the Memorial.

CBC has had a long and meaningful tradition with the United States Military. In 1934, the school negotiated an agreement with the United States Army to introduce a Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) Program to the school’s curriculum. CBC’s identity with military service became clearer during World War II. In a 1944 issue of The Turret, the school’s newspaper, it was reported that nearly 1,000 CBC men were serving in the armed services. Eventually that number grew to 1,400. Forty CBC alums made the ultimate sacrifice during that war. While still an important part of the school’s history and identity, the JROTC program was discontinued in 1993.

While it became a voluntary program in 1977, before it was discontinued, every student before then and those who chose to voluntarily, proudly wore the CBC uniform every day and participated in military structured drills, parades, and student life on campus. And even today, while the students no longer wear a uniform or participate in weekly drills and in military-style parades, the precepts and traditions formulated during those Jr. ROTC years are still revered and respected throughout the CBC Community.

CBC’s continued commitment to honoring its war heroes is demonstrated by actions taken by current students to ensure that veterans are not forgotten. One such example was recognized in 2019 when representatives of Gold Star Mothers visited the CBC Memorial to honor several Cadets who had taken their time to help in the remembrance and funerals of three homeless veterans who had recently died, even though they were not CBC graduates. The mothers presented a folded flag to be displayed in the school that recognized one of the veterans. The students, who had attended the funerals of the three veterans and actually served as pall bearers for the third vet, are part of an organization that is dedicated to helping veterans and their causes, especially homeless veterans.

So, the next time you visit the CBC campus, stop at the Memorial, give a salute, and say a prayer for 1st Lieutenant John Grutsch and all of the honored CBC graduates remembered on it and the ultimate sacrifice they have made for us.

Peter Lakey '84

Peter Lakey ’84 has created a new math tool that he is looking to share with the public.

“With this tool I am able to generate challenging math puzzles that I post on my website each day,” Lakey said. "This is free to the public. Anyone can access my site and try to solve the new puzzles I post there each day. I would like the CBC community to be aware of this because I’m certain that some of them will get enjoyment out of it. I have been posting new puzzles each for one year now. There are a handful of people throughout the world who solve them each day. They love the puzzles.”

Lakey’s math puzzles can be found at: https://www.cognitivecardgames.com/dailychallenge.

“I plan to start selling my X-Squared Card Deck to the local public this year,” Lakey said. “I will produce a First Edition of 2,500 units. My plan is to submit the order once I accumulate reservations for 1,000 units.”

People can request to reserve a copy of the game through the Products page of Lakey’s website: http://www.cognitivecardgames.com. He has also created a YouTube video that captures the essence of how the card deck may be used:

Q&A with Dan Lesinski '08 and Ryan Murphy '17

Dan Lesinski '08 and Ryan Murphy '17 lead the Young Professional's committee on the Alumni Association's Board of Directors.

What made you want to join CBC's Alumni Board?

Dan: "I was inspired to join the CBC Alumni Board because I believe in the power of community and mentorship. CBC provided me with invaluable experiences and connections that shaped who I am today, and I want to give back to the next generation of alumni. The opportunity to contribute to the success of the organization and be part of an ongoing legacy of CBC excellence excites me. It's about creating spaces for continued growth, both for the school and for alumni to remain connected and engaged."

Ryan: "I have always wanted to give back in ways outside of financial means. CBC had such an incredible impact on me at such an important time of my life and I am privileged to be able to give back and many different ways."

How did CBC help you become the man you are today?

Dan: "CBC helped me become the person I am today by teaching me not only academic skills but also the importance of character, responsibility, and leadership. The environment fostered a sense of discipline and a passion for giving back, which I carry with me in all aspects of my life. CBC was more than just an education; it was where I learned to navigate challenges, lead by example, and stay true to my values. The friendships I made and the mentors I encountered there continue to influence my journey."

Ryan: "CBC taught me the importance of independence and lifelong friendships. Growing up in a house with six sisters as the only boy had its challenges, but CBC gave me a true understanding of what it means to be a brother."

What do you hope to accomplish with the Young Professionals groups?

Dan: "One of my primary goals with the Young Professionals Group is to engage younger alumni early on in their careers, ensuring they stay connected to CBC and the alumni network. The longer we wait post-graduation to reach out, the more likely it is that CBC becomes just a distant memory. By building relationships with alumni soon after graduation, we can keep them engaged with the school and remind them of the value of being part of the CBC community. I hope to create opportunities for these young professionals to engage with one another and the school in meaningful ways, which will help keep CBC top of mind as they build their careers. Building that ongoing connection will help us maintain a strong, supportive alumni community for years to come."

Ryan: "One of our key initiatives is the GOLD program – Graduates of the Last Decade. The goal of this group is to create a professional network for younger alumni, similar to a BNI group. CBC has produced an incredible number of successful alumni, and we believe it's in everyone’s best interest to collaborate, network, and continue growing professionally while also supporting fellow alumni."

Q&A with Matthew Cibulka ’07

What did/do you do for your professional career, where did you work and for how long, what titles or awards did you earn, etc?

“As a Senior Producer, I manage projects from concept to completion—crafting schedules, overseeing budgets, assembling creative teams, and leading reviews with executives. With nearly a decade of experience collaborating directly and indirectly with Apple, I’ve contributed to iconic campaigns, including Apple TV screensavers, the redesigned iMac, and the MacBook Air. As a freelance Senior Producer, I partner with various companies and vendors to produce editorial, VFX, and CG films. While Apple remains a major focus, I’ve also led campaigns for InBev, Lexus, Scottrade, Enterprise, and Nike.”

Do you have any hobbies? What do you like to do in your spare time?

“I’m passionate about surf photography. The ocean brings me a sense of calm, and capturing surfers as they carve through waves, creating breathtaking splashes, is truly exhilarating. Check out my work on Instagram: @mattcibulka_photography."

How have the lessons you learned at CBC helped you in your professional life, family life, or other areas?

“Working with Mr. (Tom) Murray, I learned to trust my instincts, embrace creativity, and, most importantly, always deliver. Whether it was producing our daily newscast or overcoming creative blocks, he pushed me to put my work out there rather than overthinking it. His lesson was simple but powerful: You are enough. Keep creating. Keep delivering.

Another lasting lesson came from Mrs. H (Charlotte Hanselman), our librarian. She ran Karen House, a shelter for individuals escaping abusive relationships. Every Tuesday after school, we would drive down to cook dinner for the residents. I remember stressing over what to make or whether the food would turn out well, but to those we served, our presence mattered far more than the meal itself. That experience taught me an invaluable truth: Everyone wants to be seen and acknowledged. No matter who you meet, smile, recognize them, and treat them with kindness.”

Is there a teacher or figure from CBC who stood out in your time here and made an impact on you that lasts to this day?

“Mr. Edward Goetz and Thomas Murray, for believing in me, and showing me my potential. Joel Delpha and Charlotte Hanselman, for nurturing me into who I am. Dr. Karen Engdorf, "aka Dr. K", for empowering me through SIT (Student Information Technology).”