In Memory

Matthew Recchia (College Chemistry)

Matthew Recchia (College Chemistry)

Mr. Recchia was born on June 26, 1916 and died on February 12, 1986.

He served in the US Air Force from 1942 till 1945

He taught at BHS for 25 years.



 
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11/06/14 10:20 PM #1    

James McNamee

Mr. Recchia taught us much more than chemistry. He put things in a practical context that made us understand that knowing chemistry had greater implications. One day he asked us, "If you could possess and control any element which one would it be?". Everyone chose precious metals expecting that with such wealth we could do anything. Recchia's answer was, "I'll take iron. With iron I could wage war and take all those precious metals from you." That's an example of how he challenged us to think outside the box before that expression was fashionable.


11/08/14 12:31 PM #2    

Kathleen Bogert Owens (Beekman)

I was very grateful to Mr. Recchia because I had to take Chemistry in order to get into Nursing school and at first I really struggled with the concepts.  He tutored me every day until I finally began to understand it all.  He was instrumental in helping me to achieve my dream of being a nurse.  He was also the first person I ever heard discuss pollution.  One day he filled a glass with water which produced a lot of bubbles.  he asked us if we had any idea what those bubbles might be.  If I am remembering correctly, he said there was a small amount of soap in the water which he said was the beginning of the polution of our water.  Little did we know at the time how right on he was.  Another wonderful Bogota teacher who will undoubtedly be remembered fondly at our reunion.  Take care all!  Kathy Owens Beekman


02/10/15 10:12 AM #3    

Arthur Vernon Liming Jr.

Mr. Recchia got me interested in Chemistry. I went on to major in Chemistry in undergraduate school at Fairleigh Dickinson. I spent 40 years in management of Chemical Manufacturing operations. It has been a very rewarding career. God bless you me Recchia.


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