Bremen High School
Class of '62 Reunion Events & Activities
 
 

Haven't visited lately?  See below to catch-up on Breaking News!
December 1, 2013
Happy holidays to all!!
 

DID YOU KNOW?  The next time after 2013 that Thanksgiving will fall on the first day of Chanukah will be in the year 79,043.  That will be the year of our 77,031st reunion.  OK -- I said I needed a break , but by then I should be up & ready to organize another reunion.  Stay tuned! :-)

 

Thanksgiving and Chanukah share many of the same values: dedication, peace, gratitude, friends, and family.  As we celebrate these days of thanks with friends and family, and look forward to Christmas and year end, let's not forget:

 

  • More than 46 million of our fellow Americans (about 15% of all Americans) are living at or below the federal poverty level.

 

  • More than 16 million children in the US (22% of all children in the US) live in families with incomes below the federal poverty level.
 
Let's not only count our blessings on these days of thanks and celebration, but let's all of us give some more thought as to how we can help our less fortunate Americans in the coming New Year.
 
Stay tuned in late January or early February for the 2014 post-reunion event planning survey -- your "votes" will count!

 

September 29, 2013
Tom Dresser inducted into the Bremen Hall of Fame!!

 

A big "way to go" to Tom.  This is not only a tribute to Tom, but also to our entire class.  This year, Bremen had two inductees into the Hall of Fame from different classes -- with Tom, our class was very well represented!  SEE PICTURES FROM THE EVENT AND FESTIVITIES (on the left)
 
At the game, I was talking to Dr. David Kebelkis (Principal) and Paul Rybarczyk (Associate Principal) about the various alumni events in recent years, including our reunion, which both of them remember well.  In fact, Paul commented that we by far had the largest school tour that he has ever hosted!  Way to go "Class of '62"!

 

Both Dr. Kebelkis and Paul are keen to encourage alumni participation because it has such a positive effect on the student body.  It's not only donations that count, but also "setting a positive example".  Reunions and the Hall of Fame are important components of supporting the Bremen motto: "We have pride"!  

 

I also spoke to Paul about some other ideas that I discussed recently with Sue (Vaughan) Nelson.  Paul was very interested in them -- and we will pursue them -- so "stay tuned" for more details later!

 

Dr. Kebelkis also mentioned that he is encouraging all classes to submit more nominations to the Hall of Fame since there are no quotas and he felt that Tom's nomination far, far exceeded the requirements for acceptance.
 
One last note: The demographics of Bremen have changed dramatically over the years, and we all know that can be very challenging.  However, I am happy to report that Bremen is strong and well, which is a great testament and tribute to the Administration & Staff.  Way to go Bremen! 

 

Go Braves!

 

Rich Kieffer
 

September 18, 2013

OK -- I lied!!
 
Hi Classmates, 


Best-laid plans of mice & men...!  I said it was "a wrap for 2013", but as we all know "things happen" -- and this is a good thing!  Our classmate, Dr. Thomas Dresser, will be inducted into the Bremen High School Hall of Fame on Friday, September 27th.  Congratulations Tom!

 

The ceremony will take place in the Bremen gymnasium from 2:00 - 3:00 PM on Friday, September 27th.  Tom, and the other recipients, will be giving 2 to 3 minute acceptance speeches.  I heard that Tom will also be participating in the Homecoming Parade that starts at 3:30 PM, winds through Midlothian, and ends-up at Bremen at about 4:45 PM.  

 

The Varsity game begins at 7:00 PM.  There will be a tent at one end of the field for alums to gather and hangout.  At half-time, there will be an announcement by Paul Rybarczyk that the new recipients are present.

 

Stop by if you have a chance. 
 
Best regards,

 

Rich Kieffer

 

August 30, 2013

It's a wrap for this year -- see you again in 2014!!

 

Hi Classmates, 

 

It's been another great year for the Class of 1962.  I sense from various feedback that everyone had a super time at the August events.  See the "2013 Event Photos" (on the left).

 

ALSO -- "stay tuned" in 2014 for next year's event.  It will happen!  Who knows what?  Sky diving!  Bungee jumping!  Well, maybe just another informal dinner!

 

We're "signing-off" until next year, but that doesn't mean we're not interested in updates.  Feel free to use the "Stay in Touch!" form (on the left) to provide us with classmate updates.  Additionally, Darrell Jordan plans to continue his search for lost classmates ( see"Search for Lost Classmates" on the left).  Your feedback on lost classmates will be greatly appreciated.

 

With that I say -- "A big thanks to all the event organizers and attendees!  You made it happen!"

 

Best regards,

 

Rich Kieffer

 

August 13, 2013
August 10th Dinner - wow! -- 42 attendees!!
Hi Classmates, We missed those of you who couldn't make it.  It was another great time reminiscing about past & present experiences -- and talking about future plans.  We "held true" to our Class Theme:
 
  1. Look to the future because that's where we will be spending the rest of our lives.
  2. Cherish the present because that's how we build our memories.
  3. Never forget the past because that's what got us to where we are today.
     
 

We also "closed" the restaurant and almost "closed" another local Irish pub!  Not bad for a bunch of Seniors!  By the way, the consensus is that this will be an "annual event"!
 
STAY TUNED!  Over the next several week we will be posting pictures and comments.  We invite all who attended to give us your feedback and pictures!  
Please send comments using the "Stay in Touch" form (on the left) and your pictures to: rwkieffer@gmail.com 

 

August 8, 2013
We're in the stretch!
Hi Classmates, Only two (2) days until Granite City!!  Remember, we have reserved some "extra seats" so don't hesitate to "show-up" if your plans change!  Click-on "Welcome to Granite City!"  for directions.

A big thanks to all who responded -- all 74 of you!

THE "CONFIRMED" COUNT IS NOW: 45 attendees!


August 2, 2013
We're in the stretch!
Hi Classmates,  Only eight (8) more days until Granite City!!  Rememeber, we have reserved some "extra seats" so don't hesitate to "show-up" if your plans change.
A big thanks to all who responded -- all 72 of you!

THE "CONFIRMED" COUNT IS: 44 attendees!

 

July 24, 2013

It's a wrap!  Well, almost!  :-)

Hi Classmates!!! 

It's July 24th and we have given Granite City our "final" headcount.  However, knowing that some of you might "change your mind" at the last minute, we have reserved some "extra seats".  Don't hesitate to "show-up" if your plans change - after all, we're "Braves" so we'll make it work!!!  
A big thanks to all who responded!

THE "FINAL" COUNT IS: 46 attendees (44 Yes and 2 Maybe)!


July 18, 2013

We have had 69 responses to date!!  Thanks for respnding!!

THE NEW COUNT: 53 potential attendees (41 Yes and 12 Maybe)!

 

July 16, 2013

We have had 69 responses to date!!
THE NEW COUNT: 54 potential attendees (39 Yes and 15 Maybe)!
 
July 12, 2013
We have had 68 responses to date!!

We still have 11 "maybes" who haven't "confirmed" yet and a bunch of "undecideds" who we encourage to "respond".  It's time to decide!  July 24th is our deadline for giving Granite City a final headcount.  We can't guarantee you a seat if you don't respond.  Use the "RSVP for August 10th!" form (on the left) to sign-up or confirm your attendance.  Don't miss out!!!  

THE NEW COUNT: 52 potential attendees (37 Yes and 15 Maybe)!


July 10, 2013
A big "thanks" for all your responses!!!
We still have 11 "maybes" who haven't responded yet and a bunch of "undecideds" who we encourage to respond.  It's time to decide!  July 24th is our deadline for giving Granite City a final headcount.  We can't guarantee you a seat if you don't respond.  Use the "RSVP for August 10th!" form (on the left) to confirm your attendance.  Don't miss out!!!  
THE NEW COUNT: 51 potential attendees (36 Yes and 15 Maybe)!
 

July 9, 2013

 A big "thanks" for all your responses!!!

To all who responded "maybe" or are still "undecided" It's time to decide -- especially the "maybes"!  July 24th is our deadline for giving Granite City a final headcount.  We can't guarantee you a seat if you don't respond.  Use the "RSVP for August 10th!" form (on the left) to confirm your attendance.  Don't miss out!!!  

THE COUNT: 52 potential attendees (36 Yes and 16 Maybe)!

 

July 5, 2013

Mary Lou says thanks for all your responses!!!
Up to this point, we've been saying "no commitment needed".  Now, we're saying to all who responded "maybe" or are still "undecided" -- It's time to decide -- especially the "maybes"!  July 24th is our deadline for giving Granite City a final headcount.  We can't guarantee you a seat if you don't respond.  Use the "RSVP for August 10th!" form (on the left) to confirm your attendance.  Don't miss out!!!  
THE COUNT: 52 potential attendees (34 Yes and 18 Maybe)!

 

July 3, 2013

AN IMPORTANT UPDATE FROM MARY LOU:
Up to this point, we've been saying "no commitment needed".  Now, we're saying to all who responded "maybe" or are still "undecided" -- It's time to decide! 
 
July 24th is our deadline for giving Granite City a final count.  We can't guarantee you a seat if you don't respond.  Use the "RSVP for August 10th!" form (on the left) to confirm your attendance.   

 

"Have a great 4th -- and be safe!" 
 
June 14, 2013
We hope you are surviving the unpredictable Spring weather and are looking forward to the Summer.
It's been a "bitter-sweet" start to 2013 with the loss of some of our dear classmates, which should remind all of us that "an opportunity missed can be an opportunity lost".   Our informal get-together on August 10th is less than 2 months away, so we hope that you have the event logged on your calendar.  Also, the sooner you can confirm your intentions, the better we can plan.  You'll be hearing from Mary Lou in the near future, but in the mean time -- "Have a great Summer!" 
 
May 22, 2013
The Moore, Oklahoma tragedy:
Want to help and make sure that your money is going to the right place?  Following are two reliable ways to help these poor folks. 
  1. Send a Text Message to 90999 with the text "REDCROSS"
    (after a confirmation, $10 will be added to your mobile phone bill)
  2. Donate blood to the Red Cross.

 

May 16, 2013
The August 10th tally:
We have 54 respondents and 47 potential attendees!  Out-of-towners, make sure you book your room early!  Rooms & suites are still available at the Country Inn, but rates may increase as they reach capacity (see "Where to stay in August?" on the left). 
 
May 12, 2013
The August 10th tally:

We have 53 respondents and 46 potential attendees!  Out-of-towners, make sure you book your room early!  Rooms & suites are still available at the Country Inn, but rates may increase as they reach capacity (see "Where to stay in August?" on the left). 

 
May 9, 2013...

Sad loss of another Classmate - Jack Hille

First Cliff on April 21st, and now Jack a week later.  Jack and I had exchanged emails recently and he was planning to attend the August 10th dinner, so it was a complete shock when his Son (Jay) contacted me late yesterday.  Jack passed-away on April 28th.  Services were held on May 4th & 5th.  Jack was not only a good friend, but also a great swim team teammate, along with Ed Schuman, who we lost last year.  You can find more details and express your condolences at the following website:  

http://www.colonialchapel.com/book-of-memories/1565824/Hille-Jack-P/index.php 

 

May 7, 2013...

Checkout the recent update to the "Search for Lost Classmates" Section (on the left)

THE TALLY: We have 51 respondents and 45 potential attendees for August 10th!  Out-of-towners, make sure you book your room early!  Rooms & suites are still available at the Country Inn, but rates will increase as they reach capacity.  Request the Senior Rate, which is still cancelable any time prior to 6:00 PM on your day of arrival (the 15% discount rate is not).  That too may change. 
May 1, 2013...

Amazing! As of 13:00 CT today, we exceeded 5,000 website visits and 24,000 page views!  We have 51 respondents and 45 potential attendees for August 10th!  Out-of-towners, make sure you book your room early!  Rooms & suites are still available at the Country Inn, but rates will increase as they reach capacity.  Request the Senior Rate, which is still cancelable any time prior to 6:00 PM on your day of arrival (the 15% discount rate is not).  That too may change.  (for prior "Breaking News" go to "Breaking News History" on the left)

 

April 28-30, 2013...
We now have 51 respondents and 45 potential attendees for August 10th!
Out-of-towners, make sure you book your room early! Rooms & suites are still available at the Country Inn, but rates will increase as they reach capacity. Request the Senior Rate, which is still cancelable any time prior to 6:00 PM on your day of arrival (the 15% discount rate is not). That too may change.


April 23, 2013...

Loss of a dear classmate - Cliff Cebulski... It is with deep sadness that we have to report the passing of Cliff Cebulski on Sunday, April 21, 2013, following a courageous two year battle with cancer. Cliff was one of the "shining stars" of the Class of 1962 -- and a great friend to many of us.  Online condolences may be expressed at: www.cotterfuneralhome.com  More details can be found at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/greenbaypressgazette/obituary.aspx?n=clifford-cebulski&pid=164402497&fhid=14017#fbLoggedOut

 

April 20, 2013...

An important update on a "place to stay"... As some of you know, the Homewood Suites is now booked. They notified us that they booked another group. Oh well -- get used to living in an age that moves "at the speed of light". Maybe we can't move that fast, but we're not far behind. We have an alternative!  However, anyone interested in a room should move fast since all the area hotels & motels are telling us that they expect to be booked by August. The new "place to stay" is the Country Inn & Suites by Carlson, Tinley Park, IL (5 miles South of Granite City on LaGrange Road). See "Where to stay in August?" on the left.

 

April 19, 2013...

Sorry! A change in plans -- Homewood Suites just contacted us and said that they are now "fully booked" due to additional group activity that weekend. We are working on an nearby alternative "place to stay" so -- "please stay tuned"!  Oh well -- nobody said this would be easy! The August 10th beat goes on! Responded (48); Potential Attendees (43). Count of "Yes" and "Maybe" attendees by State: Alabama (1); Arizona (3); Florida (2); Indiana (2); Michigan (2); North Carolina (2); Ohio (1); Texas (2); Wisconsin (2)

 

April 18, 2013...

Thanks for your interest and support! 4,800+ website visits to date!

 

April 17, 2013...

Need a place to stay in August? See updated details for our "recommended place to stay" -- Homewood Suites by Hilton in Orland Park. Click-on "Where to stay in August?" on the left.

 

April 11, 2013

Current count of potential attendees for August 10th is now 41, based on 47 classmates who have responded. Checkout "Look who's coming?" (on the left). Thanks to all who have responded!

 

April 8,2013

Current count of potential attendees is now 40, based on 46 classmates who have responded. Checkout "Look who's coming?" (on the left). Thanks to all who have responded!

 

April 5, 2013

Three additional classmates sent their RSVPs -- current count of potential attendees is now 38, based on 45 classmates who have responded. Thanks to all who have responded!

 

NEW FEATURE! Get in the game! If you have anything you would like to say or share with your classmates, please go to the new section on the left: "Sign Guest Book & Comment". The rules are "keep it relevant" and "keep it clean"! :-)

 

April 3, 2013:

It is with deep sadness that we report the passing of a dear classmate, Sylvia (Bevell) Barber. Sylvia left us on Easter Sunday 2013, after a long battle with Diabetes. You will not find Sylvia’s picture in our Class of 1962 Yearbook -- she like many others missed the photo session. However, she is listed in our Commencement Program. Nevertheless, I am pleased to report that her Son (Ron Barber) contacted us and he and his siblings were kind enough to share some stories of her life -- and some picture of his Mom and her friends. To learn more about Sylvia and why our lost classmates outreach program can make a real difference in people’s lives, please go to the special section on left – “A Tribute to Sylvia (Bevell) Barber”.

 

March 29, 2013:

Happy Easter or Passover!!! In some parts of the country, there's a big difference between the "First Day of Spring" and the "First Spring Day" -- nevertheless, we are "in the stretch" for warmer weather!

...37 and counting! Don't miss out!

If you haven't sent your RSVP yet -- please go to Home page and read on!

 

March 17, 2013:
Happy St. Paddy's Day!!! Spring is coming and we just passed 4,400 visit to our website - thanks for your support! As we approach August 10th, we will post more details about the event. In fact, for those of you who missed our Granite City Brunch, we have added a new section with a description of and directions to Granite City (see "Welcome to Granite City" on the left).

 

FYI: If you have friends from the Class of '63 "stay tuned". We have been in contact with Roger Tracy, their 50 Year reunion organizer. PS: Some of us Class of 62'ers may "crash their party"! Checkout: http://bhsd228.schoolwires.net/Page/138

 

February 25, 2013:
New update to: "Look who's coming?" on August 10th (on the left):
...36 and counting! Don't miss out!

Remember to checkout "Bremen Alumni Activities" (on the left):
...Bremen Golf Outing on June 6th

 

February 23, 2013:

New update to: "Look who's coming?" on August 10th (on the left):
...35 and counting! Don't miss out!

Remember to checkout "Bremen Alumni Activities" (on the left):
...Bremen Golf Outing on June 6th

 

February 16, 2013:

Checkout "Look who's coming?" on August 10th (on the left):
...31 and counting! Don't miss out!

Checkout our new section "Bremen Alumni Activities" (on the left):
...Bremen Golf Outing on June 6th

 

February 11, 2013:
Checkout "Look who's coming?" (on the left) -- 25 and counting!

 

February 9, 2013: It is with great sadness to report that Carol (Plante) Scianna, Andy's wife of 47 years, passed away on February 6th. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in honor of "Ham's Champs", an organization her grandson Ryan started to help kids with cancer. For details, and a link to the St. Jude website, go to: http://legacy.southtownstar.com/obituaries/southtownstar/obituary.aspx?n=carol-s-scianna-plante&pid=162906392#fbLoggedOut

 

January 30, 2013:

See new "Look who's coming?" page (on the left)

See new "Our Theme" page (on the left)

 

January 26, 2013:

See August 10th "get together" update on Home page.

Make sure to review the "lost classmates" list and help.

 

January 22, 2013:

See updates to "Lost Classmates" and "Gone, but not Forgotten"

Added: Patricia (Kara) Hesse (2006)