February 1995 Omegaphone
House Improvements Highlighted at Homecoming
By Edward M. Brown '87, President of Theta Chi of Penn State Inc.
Omega Chapter celebrated another successful and eventful Homecoming Weekend on October 29. The house was looking good thanks to recent renovations and the efforts of the undergraduate members, Although a bit hectic due to the late conclusion of Penn State's thrashing of the Buckeyes, both the corporation meeting and the dinner were well attended.
Some of those present included Jack Weiss '70 (who laid quite a kiss on the pig at the traditional pre-dinner ceremony), Dave Ersek '70, Tom Raymond '73, John Wszalek '77, Drew Tomlinson '79, Dan Powell '81, Ed Brown '87, Rod Miller '89, Steve Martin '88, Jim Smith '89, Chris Thomson '89, Bill Herron '90, Jim Stuhltrager '89, Erwin Les'Pere '90, Rich Maltz '90, Jeff Damcott '91, Greg Rush '91, John Fischer '91, Greg Hancock '91, Kevin Shayer '92, Steve Wallis '93, Jim Walker '93, Bryan Cooley '94 and Chuck Schmoyer '93. My apologies to those who visited but did not have the opportunity to sign the attendance list.
The corporation meeting saw the election of alumni association officers for two-year terms and covered a number of business items. Leaving the office of vice president was Bob Kramer '88. Our thanks to Bob for his dedicated service to our chapter, including the many hours he devoted to Omega's outstanding 75th Anniversary Celebration. We look forward to Bob's continued involvement in other areas of Theta Chi of Penn State.
Once again the physical state of the chapter house was a major topic of discussion at the corporation meeting. Second and third floor bathroom renovations are complete. Anyone who has seen the project must agree that a first-class job was done in the complete overhaul. New commercial downspouts were installed on the front of the house to replace those that had fallen last winter; these repairs have eliminated further water damage to interior walls in the living room, pool room and a second floor bedroom. The damaged walls have also been repaired. Jeff Damcott '91 extended a helping hand to repair the living room while a contractor was hired to repair the bedroom. Costs were saved on the bedroom thanks to the undergraduates' assistance in clearing the room. Also smoke detectors have been purchased and will be installed in each bedroom.
Efforts continue to launch a capital campaign. Our newly elected vice president, Jim Stuhltrager '89, is working hard to prioritize and obtain cost estimates for the most necessary repairs. We have not forgotten those who have generously volunteered to help in this effort. I'd once again like to thank Joost Keesing, our Alumnus Adviser, for his ongoing service to Omega. Joost graciously kept an eye on the house over the summer and continues to help coordinate house repairs and assist the undergraduates in day-to-day operations. I look forward to working with our enthusiastic and optimistic adviser for at least the next two years!
Founders' Day will be celebrated the weekend of April 22, 1995. Watch your mail for a schedule of the weekend's events. I hope you and your family will attend. We need your support to ensure a strong Omega Chapter for the next 75 years!
523 South Allen Street: Out Home for the Past 65 Years
Out House as it appeared for the first time in the 1930 LaVie
By Stephen Martin '88, Omegaphone Editor
Last year Theta Chi Omega celebrated its 75th anniversary. In those 75 years, many changes have taken place at Penn State, in the fraternity system, and even within our National Fraternity and local chapter. But a constant since 1930 has been our chapter house at 523 South Allen Street.
Known as the Chrysler Building long ago, the chapter house was once the tallest building in State College. Nowadays the house is not even the tallest on Allen Street, and it no longer has a fancy name. But it's still home to Omega Chapter.
All of us can remember the many good times we had at the chapter, no matter what era we're from and no matter how much time we spent at the house. But the good times we had have exacted a slow but constant or the house, not to mention the effects of Mother Nature over the years. The house is getting old and needs our help.
The 65 years are starting to show on the chapter house. This past summer, we borrowed close to $50,000 and completely gutted and replaced both upstairs bathrooms. No one who has been to the chapter house in the last several years would deny that the bathroom work needed to be done. I have seen and used the new bathrooms, and they are a clear improvement over the old versions. This is not the only improvement the chapter has seen in recent years. The roof was replaced in the late 1980s. The internal fire doors were added to the second and third floors to meet code regulations. Any number of drywall sections have been replaced over the years due to water damage or general wear and tear. Add in things such as lights, carpet and furniture and a lot of good things have happened at the house, But we will need help to go further.
Our House as it appears today
At the time of this writing, an architectural assessment of the house was being looked into by the board. This assessment will, if completed, give us a clear picture of what work needs to be done inside and outside the house.
It does not, however, take a trained observer to walk around the house and see firsthand what some of the major needs might be. The side porch (off the living room) is in awful shape and needs to be completely removed (if it doesn't fall down first), at which point a decision about replacing it can be made. The windows throughout the entire house need to be replaced. There's no telling what state things like the electrical, plumbing and heating systems are in and what repairs they may need.
In the coming months, a capital campaign will be undertaken to raise money required to repair or replace all the things we can afford to do within the house. How much could we spend? $50,000, $100,000, even upwards of $200,000? Probably so. Probably more. Major repairs or replacements in a house the size of ours won't be inexpensive; the bathrooms showed us that. By law, building a new chapter house is not —permitted regardless of the amount of money available. Buying an existing chapter house and its potential problems is really no better an option than repairing our own.
When the capital campaign kicks off, please take some time to consider a donation to help improve the house we've called home for so many years. Not a single one of us alone can do all that needs to be done, but if we all contribute what we can, Theta Chi Omega can continue its tradition of excellence right where it belongs — at 523 South Allen Street.
Bequests Important to Omega Chapter
Brothers who have included Omega Chapter in their estate plans have made a thoughtful gesture toward the fraternity and have established a method for supporting the organization in the future.
While Omega Chapter can't provide legal counsel, advanced technical support, complicated trust agreements, and a thorough knowledge of tax laws like our alma mater, we can, however, promote the idea that a simple bequest—putting Omega Chapter in your will—is a method of supporting the fraternity in a significant way.
For example, did you know that Omega Chapter can be included in your will with only a minimal amount of wording? All that is necessary is the language to include the correct legal name and address of the fraternity.
A simple example of an outright bequest would be: "I give, devise, and bequeath to Omega Chapter of Theta Chi Fraternity located at 523 S. Allen Street, State College, PA 16801, the sum of ##### dollars (or, ### percent of my estate) to be used for (general purposes, to establish a scholarship, physical plant maintenance, etc.)."
A portion of your residuary estate — whatever is left after specific bequests have been paid —can also be designated to Omega Chapter. Sample wording to do this would be: "All the rest, residue, and remainder of my estate, both real and personal property of whatever and wheresoever situated, which I may own or have the right to dispose of at the time of my death, I give, devise, and bequeath to Omega Chapter of Theta Chi Fraternity located at 523 S. Allen Street, State College, PA 16801, to be used for _________.
Using this sample language can greatly reduce the potential for legal disputes during probate. This language can be shared with your attorney should you be interested in providing for Omega Chapter in your estate plans.
We encourage you to contact us if you have any questions. And, of course, it is important that you consult with your attorney or financial adviser.
To those of you who have already provided for Omega Chapter in your estate plans, you have made a very important commitment to your fraternity — we appreciate your generosity.
Wanted: Omega Brothers to Go Surfing..On the Internet
By Richard Maltz '90, Alumni Treasurer
Omega Chapter is riding on the "information super highway." Maybe you have been on-line and hadn't realized that a friend and brother is on-line with you. From America On-Line, to CompuServe, to Prodigy, there are brothers surfing the internet.
Looking to get a golf outing together? Want to get together with brothers in your area to watch the game or talk about it on-line afterwards? Wondering how to get in touch with that pledge brother who still owes you five bucks, or maybe you're trying to locate tickets for an upcoming game. We want to provide our brothers access to each other as well as more information and up-to-date news about Penn State, Omega Chapter and Theta Chi Fraternity.
We are in the process of upgrading our database to include e-mail addresses.
Omega Excels in Academics and Community Service
By Michael Hetrick '95, 1994 Chapter President
The fall semester got off to a great start, beginning with the National Convention in August in Scottsdale, Ariz. Three undergraduate brothers attended along with adviser Joust Keesing. At the convention, Omega received four National awards issued for chapter finances, alumni programming, the ritual and philanthropy/community service.
Currently there are 34 brothers living in the house. In early October, we pinned in five pledges, both freshmen and sophomores. Last fall we ranked fourth on the fraternity academic list with a 3.02 cumulative CPA. This was a dramatic improvement over previous semesters. All of our athletic teams were successful this fall, and the softball team advanced to the semi-finals.
On Saturday, October 22, we held our annual philanthropic event, the David P. Ferro K.I.C.K.S. Classic in memory of Dave Ferro '86, who started the event when he was an undergraduate. We raised over $3,000 for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. The soccer tournament was very successful and drew 33 teams. We want to thank all of you who were able to donate to make this event a success.
We are teaming up with the sisters of Alpha Xi Delta for the 1995 Interfraternity Council/Panhellenic Dance Marathon. Last year we raised $23,000 for the Four Diamonds Fund. Our goal for 1995 is to raise $40,000. Two brothers were elected sub-chairs for the Dance Marathon, and many more will participate on committees.
Homecoming 1994 was a lot of fun. It was great to see alumni back at the house. We hope to see you again — and many more brothers — in April for Founders' Day.
Through the Years
Walter B. Shaw '21 originally named the Omegaphone. The first issue was published in June 1920.
The house at 523 South Allen Street was completed on March 1, 1930.
The lot at 523 South Allen is 1251 x 167'. The house sits 75' from the street. The house dimensions are 361 x 75', with three stories above ground.
The total value of the house, lot and furnishings was $65,000 in 1930.
Welcome Our Newest Initiates
Michael J. DePasquale '98 - Media, Pa. - Chemical Engineering
Jeremy A. Gajkowski '98 - Media, Pa. - Civil Engineering
Jim Kurek '98 - Philadelphia, Pa. - Aerospace Engineering
Jason W. Reifsnyder '97 - Terre Hill, Pa. - Agricultural Education
Byrne E. Remphrey '98 - Media, Pa. - Civil Engineering
Jason Ray Shoot '97 - Pittsburgh, Pa. - Administration of Justice
Erie B. Snyder '98 - Roseto, Pa. - Chemistry
Notes, Ideas and Thoughts from Steve Martin '88, Omegaphone Editor
Thanks to everyone who took time to vote in the officer elections.
Remember, the board of directors will be elected at Homecoming in the fall. If you are interested in serving on the board, contact Ed Brown '87 or Jim Stuhltrager '89
Congratulations to the undergraduate chapter on reaching the Top Ten in academics!
If you are interested in contributing articles, photos or other information to Omegaphone, please contact me
Alumni News
Blair E. Henderson '28, a retired Army colonel, makes his home in Sun City, AZ.
"Happy memories of fraternal associations grow throughout the years," writes Sherwood K. Booth '32. "I was proud of all my brothers."
Since his retirement seven years ago, Frank E. Chipak '45 has enjoyed lots of travel. In just the first half of 1994, he attended the 75th Anniversary Celebration, spent a week on the Mississippi Queen while in New Orleans, journeyed to Washington, D.C., twice, and visited the Poconos for seven days. When he last wrote, 'Chip" was looking forward to an upcoming trip to Mackinac Island and spending 22 days in South America.
John F. McElwee Jr. '47, a professor of business administration at the University of La Verne, received the university's Excellence in Teaching Award for 1993-94 in recognition of his outstanding performance in all aspects of teaching and service. Jack notes, "There's life in us old guys yet."
James T. Nelligan '61, president of the Henry Co., also serves as president of the Roof Coatings Manufacturers Association. His oldest son is a Penn State graduate.
Charles B. Darrah '68 is a lawyer with the firm of Charles B. Darrah & Associates.
With his promotion, accountant Donald Loverich '73 has become vice president and regional controller of southwest operations for Chemical Waste Management. He has a new address in Beaumont, TX.
Robert F. Mausser '75, an accountant with Exxon, announces the birth of his first child, Stephanie, in June.
After eight years in Hong Kong, Paul V. Bender '79 has moved to Singapore. He is regional manager of The Cologne Re. "I'm hoping to have more Theta Chi visitors now, since everyone's kids are grown up and Rolling Rock beer is available here."
R. Scot Herman '80 is a police officer and corporal with the Millcreek Township Police Department. When he wrote in August, he was planning to marry Susan Jackson later in the month and to take his bride on a honeymoon throughout New England and Canada. The two first met while walking their dogs.
Civil engineer Timothy A. Boyd '83 is director of public works for Plymouth Township and has been selected for major in the Marine Corps Reserves. You can reach him in Flourtown, PA. Timothy had a great time at the 75th Anniversary Celebration and also enjoyed attending both the June wedding of Alan Vladimir '85 and the Arts Festival with Owen Fishman '85.
In July Tracy and Hugh D. Cadzow '83 moved with their son, Aidan, to a new house in Columbia, PA. Hugh works as a project administrator at David Miller Associates. Involved in Civil War re-enactment, he took part in many episodes of the A&E Network's Civil War journal.
Patrick J. O'Connor '83 has been in contact with Timothy Boyd '83.
Besides having his own law practice, Edward M. Brown '87 has joined the staff at the Brown and Waiters insurance Agency Inc., his father's business. In August he attended the wedding of Tim Paulson '86. That same month, while visiting Al Guber '87 and his family in Las Vegas, he took in the casinos, hiked in the Grand Canyon and sailed on Lake Mead. Edward has also been in touch with Owen Fishman '85, Jim Derrah '87 and Chris Casciato '85.
Steve Dodge '88 has left a civilian position with the Navy to start his own company, Advanced System Integration Corporation, with his father. The company provides PC-based data acquisition and control systems to the industrial sector.
James R. Koppersmith '88 resides in Washington, DC.
After graduating from the University of Virginia with an MBA, Robert J. Scavello '88 traveled to Hong Kong, Thailand and China before starting his new job. He is now a senior associate at Coopers & Lybrand and lives in Arlington, VA. Rob informs us that Scott Taylor '89 is pursuing an MBA at UVA.
Last year was busy for Shane Balcik '91. He began work on his master's degree, bought a house in Pittsburgh's historic South Side neighborhood, and left Mellon Bank for "greener pastures" at FiServ Inc.. where he is working as a programmer analyst. Shane, who is active in the Allegheny County chapter of the PSU Alumni Association, sees Jim Smith '89 and talks with Mike Schwartz '92, Rich Dubin '91, Greg Rush '91, John McIntyre '91 and Paul Vassil '86 on occasion.
John D. McIntyre Jr. '91 has a new job and address. He is a kindergarten teacher at Wilmington Friends School and lives in Wilmington, DE.
When he last wrote, Michael A. Noble '92 had just started working for CBS Radio News as a research and production assistant. Michael informed us that Dave Latham '89 is married and has a child.
After receiving a master's degree in engineering last May, Stephen P. Rozyckie '93 joined Whitman Requardt and Associates as a traffic engineer. He has relocated in Cockeysville, MD.
Bryan B. Cooley '94, an aerospace engineer with the Naval Air Systems Command, has a new address in Alexandria, VA. He is living near Andy Dolan '94 and reports that Scott Morton '92 became engaged to Becky. Other brothers Bryan has been in contact with include Kevin Shayer '92, Kyle Fleagle '91, Mark Franz '91 and Mike Becker '90.
Chapter Eternal
We regret to inform you of the death of ..
Jonathan E. Rittenhouse
Daniel W. Llewellyn '35
Floyd B. Fischer '37
John E. Branigan '47
Michael J. P. Feeney '89
Theta Chi mourns their passing and extends condolences to their families and friends.
Thank you to all those brothers that shared their news.
Checkout past issues of the Omegaphone by clicking here.