On Sunday, February 23, 2025, the Mendel High School alumni community gathered for a memorable event that blended nostalgia, camaraderie, and a deep commitment to giving back. The “Get Behind the Vest” Pancake Breakfast, held to support local first responders, welcomed a special guest—David Eigenberg, known for his role as Lt./Captain Christopher Herrmann on Chicago Fire. Leading the charge were Mendel alumni Mike Dreznes (’68) and Tom Gavin (’67), who rolled up their sleeves to help out alongside a dedicated crew of volunteers.

Kane Hall hummed with Mendel pride as alumni Andy Youpel, Pat Regan, Ken Kolar, Bill Johnson, Bill Duffy, and Rick Zarr joined Mike Dreznes and Tom Gavin served hungry the crews. Their efforts filled the room with the aroma of syrup and the warmth of shared memories, turning a simple breakfast into a labor of love.

But the event was about more than pancakes—it was a chance to make a difference. The Mendel alumni collectively donated $1,000 to the cause, enough to fund two protective vests for first responders. That contribution ensures that police and firefighters have the gear they need to stay safe, a gesture that echoes the service-minded spirit Mendel instilled in its students. For the volunteers—Andy, Pat, Mike, Ken, Bill Johnson, Bill Duffy, Rick, and Tom—it was a chance to give back both with their hands and their hearts.

The “Get Behind the Vest” initiative owes much of its success to Alderman Matt O’Shea, whose annual event has become a cornerstone of community goodwill in Chicago’s Southside. O’Shea’s dedication to supporting first responders rallies residents and groups like the Mendel alumni to step up year after year. His event fosters unity and gratitude, making it a perfect fit for graduates raised to be “men for others.” For the pancake crew, volunteering under O’Shea’s banner felt like a natural extension of their Mendel roots.

Mike Dreznes summed it up: “Having David Eigenberg here was a thrill, but working with Andy, Pat, Ken, and the rest—that’s what made it special. And knowing our $1,000 got two vests out there? That’s Mendel through and through.” Tom Gavin added, “Matt O’Shea’s event gives us a way to keep that spirit alive. We’re proud to pitch in—pancakes and all.”

As the last plate was cleared, the alumni left with full hearts and a renewed sense of connection. The efforts of Andy Youpel, Pat Regan, Mike Dreznes, Ken Kolar, Bill Johnson, Bill Duffy, Rick Zarr, and Tom Gavin turned a Sunday morning into a testament to Mendel’s enduring legacy—one pancake, one vest, and one memory at a time.