Following graduation from Kellenberg, Jay attended Hofstra University and received a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Management in 2002. Over the last 15 years, he has worked for Merck, Smith & Nephew, AposTherapy, and is currently an Account Manager at Bausch Health.  Jay sold medications and devices to clinicians in primary care, psychiatry, wound care, orthopedics, and dentistry. He currently sells medications and devices in the dental market. Jay resides in Plainview, with his wife, Allison, daughter Olivia (6), and son Shane (3).

How did Kellenberg Memorial shape who you are today?

Kellenberg allowed me the opportunity to be surrounded by an extraordinary faculty, student body, and culture. KMHS has instilled a high moral intelligence that has given me a foundation to be a better person by helping others in our community. As a student, I didn’t understand how important faith would be in my life. Looking back now, I have to thank Kellenberg for helping me build the faith that I have today.

How did you get involved with endurance running as a way to raise awareness and funds for charity?

After graduating from Hofstra, I ran a handful of half marathons from 2009-2015 to lose weight and stay in shape. After every half marathon I completed, I’d always think to myself: you have to be CRAZY to run 13.1 more miles to finish a marathon.  It was always a far-fetched dream for me to run the NYC Marathon, but I thought it would be an amazing feeling to run through the city that I lived in for 6 years and visited my whole life, as I am from Long Island. In March of 2015, I registered for the NYC Marathon with mixed emotions — some excitement, some nerves.  When I crossed the finish line of the marathon, it changed my life forever. After completing the marathon, I began to use running as a platform to raise awareness and money for the Long Island Alzheimer’s Foundation, in honor of my Grandmother, Ann Asparro, who is living with Alzheimer’s. I also wanted to run for my parents, my aunt and my uncle, who are my grandmother’s primary caregivers. However, I did not believe a half marathon or a marathon would suffice for raising awareness around Alzheimer’s. That’s when I decided I would run 90 miles over three days from Montauk to Plainview on Long Island. The 90 miles represented my grandmother’s age at the time. This is when The Ann Asparro Run was created. On Friday, November 4th, 2016, I ran 29.4 miles. On Saturday, November 5th, I ran 31.2 miles. Finally, on Sunday, November 16, I ran 29.4 miles, completing the 90-mile run.

Can you share a little more about the first Ann Asparro Run and what you learned from it?

The 2016 Ann Asparro Run raised $37,000 and for every mile I ran, I dedicated a mile to a family who has lived or was living through the effects of Alzheimer’s. That year, I learned about self-belief, perseverance, focusing on solutions (not the problem), and that anything is possible. The 2016 Ann Asparro Run would have never happened if it wasn’t for the love my grandmother had shown me and the rest of my family. I’m so grateful to my running coach, Alex Arslan, who gave me the encouragement and correct training plan to complete this incredible feat.

In 2017, I continued to raise money and awareness for the Long Island Alzheimer’s Foundation, in honor of my grandmother. My grandparents would have celebrated their 75th wedding anniversary in 2017, so I decided to run 75 miles in two days. I ran 48.8 miles on Saturday, November 4th from the north shore of Long Island to the south shore. Then on Sunday, November 5th, I ran the NYC Marathon.  Due to knee pain, this was one of the most challenging and difficult days I’ve ever had to endure, but I knew I was running for my grandmother and for Alzheimer’s awareness. I sacrificed so much during my training and worked so hard that there was no way I was not going to finish. Not only did I finish 75 miles in two days, but together, we raised $18,000 for the Long Island Alzheimer’s Foundation. Again, I could only reach this achievement with the love for my grandmother and my family, as well as, supporting other families living with Alzheimer’s.

In 2018, I challenged myself to complete the Lake Placid Ironman (2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike, 26.2-mile run). Unfortunately, during the swim, I was injured by a competitor and had to be taken out of the water.  My race was over, but I knew there was something I could do which I always fall back on… running. So I grabbed my running gear, and I ran 26.2 miles on my own, away from the Ironman race. This was a disappointing day, but I was still able to complete a marathon. Just recently on September 9th, I traveled back to Lake Placid, and I was able to swim around that lake for 1.2 miles and completed the Lake Placid Ironman 70.3. So far this year, we have raised $11,000 for the Long Island Alzheimers Foundation.

Who was your favorite teacher/coach/moderator when you were a student here?

I played soccer at KMHS and Mr. Declan McSheffrey was my coach, as well as my history teacher, and someone with whom I had a great relationship.  Father Tom was/is someone I love speaking with and I always feel better after speaking with him.

With this month of November being National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month, can you share with the Firebird Alumni family what your next endurance running fundraising initiative will entail?  

I’m currently organizing a run from my grandmother’s family’s city of San’t Angelo a Fasanella to my grandfather’s family’s city of Bari in Southern Italy for late 2019 or early 2020. This run across Italy will consist of one marathon a day for six days. I continue to try to create a platform through running that has a meaning to me so I can raise money and awareness for the Long Island Alzheimers Foundation to honor my grandmother, Ann Asparro.

November is National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month!  If you would like to learn more or show your support for Jay’s extraordinary efforts to raise awareness and funds for Long Island Alzheimer’s Foundation, please visit:
The Ann Asparro Run website

Facebook: Jay Asparro or Ann Asparro Run

Instagram: jayasparro7

Kellenberg Memorial High School Parents Club & KAPA cordially invite you to attend the Annual Christmas Social!

Saturday, December 15, 2018
5:00 to 8:00 PM

Kellenberg Memorial High School
The cost for the evening is $25 per person.

Registration closes 12/12 at 12 PM.

Article by Isy Odiaka ’19:

On November 26, Mrs. Anne Zimos who is a parent of a Latin school student joined the Arts and Crafts Club and educated the club on how to make a mosaic. She is very skilled in arts and crafts and has made a hobby out of it. She assisted the arts and crafts club with making mosaics. Mrs. Zimos took the arts and crafts club through the process and provided everything they needed to make their very own mosaics. Arts and Crafts club is a club held after school, run by Mrs. Delbrune and is opened for anyone to join in grades 6-12.

Article by Joseph Braskey ’19:

On Tuesday, November 27, the Kellenberg Boys Varsity Basketball team traveled with Bro. Michael Gillen, S.M., Coach McCutcheon, and Coach Lyons to Kellenberg Memorial’s new retreat house in East Islip named Stella Maris. The name of the retreat house comes from a name that is used for Mary, the Mother of God. Stella Maris means Star of the Sea.

Coach McCutcheon explained to the team that the purchase of the property of over 5 acres was to provide a new retreat house to accommodate the school’s extensive apostolic work as well as to provide a home base for the school’s newly created crew program.

We first ventured outside for a tour of the rear of the property and to see the pool area, the canal, and the second oldest tree on Long Island, all of which are found in the backyard of Stella Maris. Coach McCutcheon pointed out that adjacent to the property is the Seatuck National Wildlife preserve which will provide an interesting opportunity for our science and environmental programs.

After touring the outside of the property, the team participated in the service portion of their trip. They cleaned windows, swept floors, and decorated the interior of the house for Christmas. The experience was a very fulfilling one for the whole team. It allowed the team to work together and be a part of something bigger than themselves.

The players and coaches then gathered in the living area for a group prayer led by the Bro. Michael. Junior forward Nicolas Spinoso remarked, “Praying with my teammates was a great way to grow closer, not only with God, but with my teammates and coaches as well.”

The team continued to bond at dinner where they ate, laughed, and prepared for practice that night. When asked about the experience senior forward Olivier Bissanthe said, “This experience was very enjoyable and very important in building team camaraderie.” Coach Lyons commented that, “it is an honor to be the first group to visit Stella Maris and I encourage all Kellenberg clubs and athletic teams to visit the house for a day of retreat.”

The team drove home and finished the night with an energetic practice, where everyone was in good spirits. This opportunity allowed a group of young men to enjoy themselves while helping others and building team chemistry that will be critical to a successful 2018-2019 season.

More than 780 of the most musically talented high school students in the Eastern region of the United States have been selected to perform in the 2019 NAFME All-Eastern Honors Ensembles. Selected to perform in the All-Eastern Honors from Orchestra & Band are Marie Rose McCuminsky ’19 (violin) and Angelica Markevich ’19 (English horn).

Marie Rose McCuminsky ’19 – Violin

Angelica Markevich ’19 – English Horn

With assistance from their music teachers, Mrs. Allison Burke and Mr. Sean Vegas, these exceptional students will prepare remarkably challenging music that they will perform under the leadership of prominent conductors in this biennial event. Students will spend three days rehearsing with one of five conductors during the Eastern Division Conference of The National Association for Music Education to be held in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in preparation for performances on April 7, 2019.

The NAFME All-Eastern Honors Ensembles, consisting of a concert band, symphony orchestra, mixed chorus, treble chorus, and jazz ensemble, are organized by members of The National Association for Music Education. The concert band and symphony orchestra will each have approximately one hundred fifty instrumentalists, the jazz ensemble will have eighteen instrumentalists, the treble chorus will have one hundred twenty vocalists, and the mixed chorus will have approximately three hundred twenty vocalists. Student participation from each state is determined by a percentage of the total NAFME Eastern Division membership.

Each of the state music educators associations in the Eastern Division (CT, DC, DE, MA, MD, ME, NH, NJ, NY, RI, PA, VT, Europe) oversee the selection process in their state during the fall of the year before the event and compile ranked lists of recommended juniors and seniors for consideration. The method used to compile the lists varies from state to state, although all recommended students must have been selected to participate in their home all-state festivals.

The committee builds the ensembles from the state presidents’ ranked lists, trying to mimic the state population percentages in each group.

The 2019 NAFME All-Eastern Honors Ensembles (all except for Jazz, which will perform on Saturday evening, April 6) will perform for an audience of thousands on Sunday, April 7, 2019, in the Spirit of Pittsburgh Ballroom at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center, Pittsburgh, PA. For program and ticket information please visit www.pmea.org.

The Nativity Scene helps me understand the meaning of
Christmas. It shows Jesus, the Son of God, humbly lying in a manger,
while surrounded by those who care for him.  God sent His Son as a man
so that He could die and rise again; therefore, granting everyone who
believes in Him forgiveness from sin and eternity in heaven. We
celebrate the birth of Christ into the world to acknowledge His
sacrifice for all humanity. We do so while surrounded by our loved
ones, in a day of giving and rejoicing. Christmas is the one day where
we truly lay down the burdens that we carry, and focus on being
grateful for the bounty of blessings that Christ bestows upon us.
Christmas is my favorite holiday because it puts a twinkle in
everyone’s eyes, and instills a bit of hope and love that everyone
needs. It is a time where we give a little extra more than we normally do
because we are reminded of how fortunate we are for the sacrifice made
for us. The holiday season can get pretty hectic between the gift
giving and festive parties, but it is crucial that we don’t lose
sight of what is really important:– appreciating what we have been
given and sharing our gifts with the rest of the world.

Luke 1:26-38     We, the children of God, are all sent to listen to God’s messaging.

In Luke’s account we see how he recants the message from Gabriel to Mary about Jesus’s birth and His coming to the world.  Gabriel came to Mary and said, “Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you.”  Mary spoke to Gabriel and questioned how it was that she can conceive a child as she was a virgin.  Gabriel spoke of the Holy Spirit and the holy Child that will be the Son of God.  God speaks to us in small and great ways.  He may ask us to stop and help those who need assistance in daily activities, or He may call you for a larger, longer lasting vocation.  We must all listen intently for the opportunities that God has asked us to provide.  The Lord asks us in every instance to provide help to others.  We must be ready.  As you continue to listen and accept your calls for God’s will, you will draw ever near in your relationship to God.  Luke also speaks that nothing is impossible with God. Mary’s cousin Elizabeth has conceived a son in her old age.  Mary listened intently and accepted the word of the Lord.  When we receive God’s message and somehow think we cannot provide what we are asked to do, we must always remember that He has given us what we need to complete His will.  We can prepare for Advent by hearing our calling and working to achieve what is being asked of us, no matter how great or small the task.

Christmas to me is more than just opening presents and going to mass, it is when I spend time with my family creating memories, being together, and loving each other. Whether it is shopping for loved ones, baking cookies with siblings, or just hanging out with family, Christmas is a special time. It is a week where we are all together, and don’t have a bunch of things on our mind that we have to do. Advent is the time of year where everyone is focused on celebrating the life of Christ and being with loved ones. Every year my whole family goes together to buy a tree, there is always an argument between my siblings and I, but it wouldn’t be Christmas if we didn’t fight. Decorating the tree is always a fun time because as we go through all the ornaments putting them on the tree there is holiday music playing in the background as my mom makes popcorn.

Christmas Eve is one of my favorite days. Besides all the good food that my uncle makes, everyone is seated down at one very long table and during prayer we go around the table saying what we are most grateful for. About a decade ago all my cousins and I started our own tradition that after dinner we would all go caroling around the neighborhood and look at all the lights. This time of the night is always so beautiful because everything is lit up and you can feel all the joy and happiness between everyone. As we get back to the house, dessert is ready and everyone is excited to eat all the pies and cookies. After, we do a gift swap between all the kids and they have to guess who gave them their gift (On Thanksgiving everyone picks a name out of a hat and has to buy a gift for that person.) . This part is another favorite of mine because everyone is all around the living room sitting together talking and laughing. Towards the end of the night when people start to leave, my family heads to midnight Mass. We just started doing this a few years ago but I love it more and more each year. Christmas Day is just like Christmas Eve but with the other side of the family and for that I am grateful. Spending time with everyone from both sides of my family is important to me because I don’t see everyone too often and seeing them makes Christmas very special.

By Phoenix editor, Anya Murphy ’19:

As of Monday, December 3, 2018, the major renovation of the student courtyard, the Madonna Pavilion, is complete and doors are once again open to student traffic. The removal of overgrown plant life contributes to the crisp appearance of the new brickwork, and a beautiful waterfall dedicated to the memory of Dylan Murphy ’23 flows into the refinished fish ponds. A new lighting system was also installed. Bro. Kenneth Hoagland, S.M. addressed the school over the PA system prior to the Angelus to announce the re-opening, which was a great relief to both students and faculty as the new route will significantly alleviate hallway congestion. Senior Jack Santi said, “It’s such a relief to have it open, but it’s not just about the traffic – it’s really nice to just get outside. It looks great.”

Every Christmas morning when I was little, before I could open my
presents, my family assigned to me the special job of placing the
delicate figurines of Baby Jesus in each of the mangers in the
nativity sets around my house. I would excitedly go from one to
another, completing the scene of Jesus’ birth that each set of ceramic
figures portrayed. Even though it was a small duty, throughout all of
the Advent I would look forward to arranging both the shepherds and
the sheep to face the Holy Family, along with the Angel looking on
with a prayerful disposition.
Although I do not think that I completely understood what it
truly meant at that age, that small act inspired the way that I look
at Christmas even now. It taught me that throughout Advent and even on
Christmas Day, the joy that Jesus brings with His birth is enough to
make even a small child forget about all of the toys they might
receive for even a second. And that one second could change that
child’s view of Christmas. So to prepare for Christmas this year, the
Nativity scene is a great reminder of what should come first- both to
an adult, and to the smallest child.

Advent is a time to gather yourself and assemble yourself for Jesus’ coming. I think that it is a good way to prepare your heart for what is to come. It is a good time to self-evaluate and realize the importance of Christmas and the reason for the season. Advent shows us hope, joy, love, and peace as we await the birth of the Lord. It is also a good time to pray to Mary for her acceptance, strength, and trust in God.

Lately the true meaning of Christmas has been overlooked by the excitement of getting presents, and the idea of getting off from school. People often forget that Christmas is supposed to be about the joyous occasion of the birth of Jesus Christ. This Advent, I plan to remember the true meaning of Christmas and try get closer to God. Ways I plan to get closer to God are by continuing to go to Church every Sunday and taking part in Church activities like the Christmas play. Also I will help children at mass in lighting the Advent wreath and decorating the Jesse tree each week. I also plan to try to pray the rosary every day this Advent in honor of Mary.

Advent is the season when we prepare to celebrate the Birth of Jesus
on Christmas. The weeks leading up to Christmas are usually very busy
with shopping, decorating, wrapping …  The season of Advent reminds
us to slow down and focus on the true meaning of Christmas.  I will
try to grow closer to God this Advent season by spending more time in
prayer.  Even just a few extra minutes of prayer each day to thank God
for all the many blessings that I have in my life will help my
relationship with God to become stronger.  I also will try to listen
more carefully to the readings and homily at Sunday Mass.  In
addition, I will try to reach out to help those in need this season by
donating new clothes and toys to my parish’s Christmas Sponsor a
Family Program.  Finally, I am going to try my best to be nice to
everyone.  I hope that doing these things will help to make my Advent
more meaningful and to bring me closer to Jesus.

On November 30, the fall varsity athletics programs gathered to honor the athletes of the fall season. Awards were given for most committed, most improved, and most valuable athletes on each team.

The Most Improved Player Award is awarded to the athlete who displayed the greatest amount of improvement and growth in their skills which contributed to the success of their team.

The Bernie Ward Commitment Award is named after our beloved former faculty member, coach and colleague Bernie Ward is for the athlete who has displayed the most passion and commitment towards bettering themselves and their teammates during the season.

The Most Valuable Player Award is awarded to the athlete whose contribution to the team contributed most towards that team’s success during the season.

The Bernie Ward Commitment Award

Varsity Cheerleading

Kristen Erker

The Bernie Ward Commitment award goes to a young lady who has worked effortlessly to improve herself in all aspects of cheerleading. Kristen has a great work ethic and a positive attitude at each and every practice. She is one of the strongest backspots on the team and is always pushing herself and others to be better. She’s always ready to work with a smile on her face and we commend her for commitment to the betterment of herself and the team at practice each day. The Varsity cheerleading Bernie Ward Commitment Award goes to Kristen Erker. 

Boys Varsity Cross Country

Matthew Gornstein

Matthew Gornstein has always been a hard worker, fierce competitor, and driven. I have never seen a runner who has so dramatically changed over a four-year period. He has made me a believer that anything is possible with hard work. He is a great example of what we want all of our runners to be. He was a unanimous choice to be one this year’s Team Captains and to win this award. The Bernie Ward Commitment Award goes to Matthew Gornstein.

Girls Varsity Cross Country

Maya Richardson

This young lady knows long distance!

For four years and almost 12 seasons, this young lady has committed herself to a “passion of purpose” which has not only produced championship results and All-State accolades for her team and herself but has also won her the respect and admiration of fellow athletes all over the Metropolitan area. She commutes in from the east end of Long Island, and has not been late or missed a practice or meet in four years and nearly 12 seasons. We are honored to award the “Bernie Ward Commitment Award” to Maya Richardson.

Varsity Dance Team

Alyssa Ruggiero

This year’s Most Committed Award goes to a dancer who is an integral and influential part of the team, not only on the Varsity level. Even with injuries a few times this season, she has been invested in making our team better throughout the season. Her commitment to the team was most apparent not only on the dance floor, but in practice sessions as well. She was always willing and ready to try new dances and worked well with others to perfect her skills. When her coaches or teammates needed her, she was always there without hesitation. We are proud to have her as a member and captain of the Varsity Dance Team. This year’s Bernie Ward Commitment Award goes to Senior and Captain, Alyssa Ruggiero.

Varsity Football

Dan Wilson

The commitment of a player on your team can be seen in various ways.  One way is to see how much off season work for your sport that player puts in.  The other way is to see how much personnel sacrifice he will make for the good of the team.  This young man did both of those things to the extreme.  He came into camp in the best shape of his life.  He led by example through the tough conditioning and drill sessions. He played multiple positions for us as the need arose. One week we needed an offensive lineman, the next week we needed a blocking “H” back, another week we needed a flanker, all the while he was a standout middle linebacker.  This player was the most committed player I have seen in a long time. The winner of the Bernie Ward Commitment Award is Dan Wilson.

Boys Varsity Soccer

Charles Deaton

Chuck epitomizes what it means to be a “team player.” This season as Chuck had the expectations to continue his starting role in goal as a senior, the coaching staff chose to go with another goalkeeper for most of the season.  However, Chuck continued to work hard at practice, and the staff finally decided to start him vs. St. Anthony’s.  Chuck rose to the occasion to help the team win this crucial victory for playoff seeding.  This was to no surprise to the staff because Chuck is mature way beyond his age.  The coaching staff feels that it has been a privilege to work with such a fine young man. 

Girls Varsity Soccer

Caitlin McDonough

There is never a day that she does not show up with a smile on her face ready to work.  She has an endless amount of positive energy that she transmits throughout her entire team.  Over the past two seasons, Caitlin has been a key player for our varsity soccer team.  Each preseason she shows up in great shape and with her skills polished.  She always finds a way to push her teammates through her own exceptional play.  Caitlin has been a huge part of our defensive line and has helped our team become successful.  Her presence will be missed on the field and the team next year as she is graduating.  This year’s Bernie Ward Commitment Award goes to Caitlin McDonough.

Varsity Swimming

Shannon Pepe

Throughout the season, Shannon Pepe truly embodied the commitment that Bernie Ward showed during his time at Kellenberg. She not only came to every practice this year but also was the hardest working swimmer at every single one.  Shannon led her lane at practice, pushing herself to keep up with the swimmers in the faster lanes.  She never complained and swam any event we needed her to, even when it was not her best stroke.  Shannon was a pleasure to coach every single day because she wanted to improve her times and approached everything with a positive attitude.  Her dedication helped her to improve her times across the board and made her an essential member of the team this year.

Varsity Tennis “A”

Katherine Stewart

The Girls’ Varsity Tennis Team has been incredibly lucky to have this young lady since she was a freshman.  During the past three years, she has grown as a competitor and has led the team with exuberance and laughter unlike no other.

Junior Katherine Stewart has demonstrated a high level of play, good sportsmanship, a commitment to the team and sport throughout her three years as a Varsity level player!  She is a talented doubles/singles player who has played with different partners and has always provided positive encouragement and strategic advice.  Katherine’s talent and competitive edge helped earn her All-League Honors for the past two years and the 2018 State Doubles Champion title.  Off the court, Katherine has maintained academic successes, consistently maintaining Honor Roll status and representing the National Honor Society. But most importantly, Katherine always displayed an enthusiasm that was admired by her teammates and coaches.  On and off the court, her dedication to the team was unmatched.  Katherine Stewart is our choice for the Bernie Ward Commitment Award and there is no doubt she will continue to lead and dominate the courts throughout her senior year. 

Varsity Tennis “B”

Riley Martin

The most committed player for the Varsity B Tennis team was new to this sport yet incredibly driven. She intended not only to improve her game but to find ways to outsmart her opponents as well. This dynamic athlete looked forward to the challenges she faced in match play. She and her partner’s court was always an exciting match to watch. If her partner was frustrated, she cheered her on. Other coaches complemented her drive and determination. As her coach, I loved her enthusiasm. She always wanted to challenge herself in practice. She truly exhibits all the characteristics you could hope for in a Kellenberg athlete. This year’s Bernie Ward Commitment Award goes to Riley Martin. Congratulations on a job more than well done Riley!!

Varsity Volleyball

Krista Handler

The first step in grooming championship habits is preparation and training.  Of all of our players on the roster, Krista Handler stood out as one who put so much of herself into all aspects of preparation.  If the team held an off-season lifting session or an open gym workout, Krista was there.  If you scrolled down to see who watched the most game film throughout the season, Krista’s name was at the top.  If you needed someone to help at a youth clinic or CYO demonstration, Krista was the first to volunteer.  Indeed, when she injured her ankle mid-season at the Lindenhurst tournament, Krista arranged her PT schedule so that she wouldn’t miss any practice time, and even though she was hobbled during those practices, she was right there alongside the ball cart, feeding and shagging balls, encouraging teammates, and lending her energy in any way that she could.  For these reasons and for many more that go unseen and unmentioned, Krista Handler is the recipient of our Most Committed Player award.

Most Improved Player

Varsity Cheerleading

Gabby Quinones

The most improved Varsity cheerleader is a girl that has worked extremely hard in improving herself in all aspects of cheerleading. She has become one of the best flyers on our team and we are very confident in her stunting abilities. We have seen great improvement in her jumps as well as her tumbling. We are very happy to have this opportunity to recognize how far she has come as a cheerleader and how enjoyable she is to coach. This season’s most improved award goes to Gabby Quinones.

Boys Varsity Cross Country

Rolando Ramos

Rolando Ramos transformed himself this year from a good JV level runner to an All-League level runner. Thru hard work and determination Rolando improve his time by over a minute this year. This improvement led to him being our 2nd best runner for the entire season, except for the NSCHSAA Championship Meet where he was our top runner. This year’s Most Improved Runner Award goes to Rolando Ramos.

Girls Varsity Cross Country

Ceili Donnelly

Most Improved: This young lady “bought in” to the long-term approach for success in cross country running. She started her preparation in the heat of early July. Her longtime dedication resulted in going from not even making the JV “A” squad as a sophomore, to earning a berth on the Varsity Championship top seven squads this season. We are honored to award the “MIP Award to Ceili Donnelly.

Varsity Dance Team

Kelly McCutchan

This year’s Most Improved Player Award goes to a dancer who continually developed her technique and performance skills throughout the season. She is a valuable asset and incredible addition to the Varsity team. As the season progressed, she perfected her moves and adjusted her own dancing style to dance as one with her team members. She is always looking to improve and seeking the advice of coaches and captains in order to do so. We have seen her become a developed and gifted dancer. With her hard work ethic and practice, she excels in anything she does. This year’s Most Improved Player Award goes to Senior Kelly McCutchan.

Varsity Football

Zac Estrella

As a junior, this young man played a minimal role on our defense during the season.  Through his hard work in the offseason that included the weight room, 7 on 7 competitions, conditioning workout and film study, he transformed himself into a talented and skilled defensive back.  He started every game and played on most of our special teams.  The coaching staff was so impressed by his improvement that he was a unanimous choice for this award.  The Most Improved Player is Zac Estrella.

Boys Varsity Soccer

John Carroll

When you finish your junior campaign ranked twenty-second in the league in points and this season be ranked ninth, I would assume we all would think that this is an improvement?  John was a force to be reckoned with this year, as teams would have to plan defensively around his strong presence in the attacking third of the field.  John’s attacking ability was crucial in some of our key victories to secure another playoff run this year.  

Girls Varsity Soccer

Grace Cooper

Every successful athlete knows that speed, strength, and skill do not come from big games, but from the hard work at the practices beforehand.  Over the course of the season, this player has grown in nearly every aspect of her play.  At practice, she constantly pushed herself and her teammates in drills and her willingness to ask questions, work extra-hard at every practice, and learn from both her coaches and teammates has allowed her to develop into an excellent player. This year’s Most Improved Award goes to Grace Cooper.

Varsity Swimming

Colleen Hawkins

From the first day of tryouts to the last day of champs, Colleen Hawkins dedicated herself to becoming a faster swimmer.  She honed her skills and pushed herself at every practice to try to become faster.  Her motivation and hard work enabled her to improve in every event, however, her most impressive improvements have been in the 50 Breast, where she dropped 5 seconds, and the 100 Free, where she dropped an amazing 11 seconds!  We are so proud of what Colleen has been able to accomplish this year and look forward to many more years with her on the team!

Varsity Tennis “A”

Lydia Mercante

So many girls of the Varsity A Tennis team improved their skills during the 2018 season, but one young lady stood out.  Junior Lydia Mercante is our choice for Most Improved Player.  Throughout the past 3 years, Lydia has always been a top competitor playing singles and doubles, but this year she rose to the challenge.  Earning her spot as third singles in the lineup, she was undefeated through 4 matches.  When asked to move up, because of an unexpected injury of a teammate, she was ready.  Lydia played number one singles for Varsity A throughout the second half of the season, where she competed against the top singles players of AA & A League Divisions.  A very difficult achievement, that took great focus and athleticism.  With a league record of 4-1 and an overall record of 6-3, Lydia was awarded All-League Honors.  Her commitment to the sport and team were obvious, as she competed in outside tournaments, practiced with fellow teammates on weekends and gave positive instruction when asked.  Lydia also went on to compete in the NSCHSAA League Championships earning a spot in the semifinals where she battled the number one seed in a close contest only to lose by several points.  We look forward to watching Lydia continue to improve and dominate the courts during her senior year.

Varsity Tennis “B”

AnnaMaria Vargas

The level of play this team exhibited from the beginning of the season to the end was dramatically different. One player, however, continued to improve her game and was always ready and willing to play. At practice, we could put her with any partner without any complaints and she always had a smile on her face. She welcomed constructive criticism and wanted only what was best for the team. This athlete had a tremendous role on the team and played in many matches. Not only did she play doubles, but she played singles as well. She emerged victoriously in 2 doubles and 1 singles match. Her calm demeanor and determination is what set her apart from the rest. This award goes to AnnaMaria Vargas. Congratulations!!

Varsity Volleyball

Stephanie Conrade

There is no player on our roster who made greater strides this season than senior middle hitter, Stephanie Conrade.  A rookie to the game of volleyball, Steph went from asking about why the boundary lines on the court didn’t matter in pursuit of the ball to a starter who had to match up against the best hitter in the conference.  Her enthusiasm for the game, her competitive spirit, and her “team first” mentality added so much to our 2018 squad.  Our only regret is that we had a mere 12 weeks to work with this stellar athlete and person.  We wish her well as she continues her athletic career in softball at Molloy College.

Varsity Cheerleading

Olivia Binder

This season’s most valuable cheerleader is a young lady who is a true asset to the Varsity team. Her strength, positive attitude, and sense of humor make her a leader and role model for every girl on our team. She is an all-around cheerleader, with strong stunting skills, impressive tumbling, and beautiful jumps. We have watched this cheerleader work effortlessly throughout the season and we are extremely impressed with how far she has come. We look forward to watching her succeed and shine throughout our competitive season. This season’s most valuable cheerleader is Olivia Binder. 

Boys Varsity Cross Country

Liam O’Reilly

It is incredible to think that at the start of last year’s cross-country season Liam O’Reilly was one of the worst runners on the entire team. What a difference one year makes. Through hard work and determination, Liam has improved himself so much that without argument he is the best cross-country runner on the team. Liam received All-League Honors and narrowly missed qualifying for the New York State Championship Meet. This year’s Cross Country Most Valuable Runner goes to Liam O’Reilly. 

Girls Varsity Cross Country

Maureen Lewin

This young woman came off an outstanding junior year of track and field competition and led the effort of summer training and the path of persistence to a championship cross country season. As one observer eloquently put at the sight of her at the front of the path at the CHSAA Intersectional Championship Meet, “she was like the mother deer leading her blue, gold and white pack of determined Firebirds into the woods- all with one thing in mind- to be the very best they all could be.” Maureen Lewin was our team leader this season in the woods, in all races, and in the hearts of her teammates.

Varsity Dance Team

Nicole Baillie

This dancer has been on the dance team since her freshman year and we knew she would be a special young woman. From the start of her dance career, it was clear that she would be one of our most dedicated and strongest dancers. She possesses excellent leadership skills and is always willing to assist her teammates with learning new choreography for each dance. Her commitment to the dance program is unwavering. She is at every practice and is always willing to go above and beyond, especially to help her team and coaches. Her personality, demeanor, and sense of humor have made it a pleasure to have her on the team. This year’s Most Valuable Player Award goes to Senior and Captain, Nicole Baillie.

Varsity Football

Matt Sluka

This player is the returning MVP for the Varsity football team. He led the Firebirds to a second perfect 11- 0 record and a second straight CHSFL “AA” Championship.  He was an offensive machine, rushing for 1,131 yards with 22 touchdowns.  In the passing game, he was 74 for 101 for 1,203 yards, 14 touchdowns, and only 1 interception. He is a two-time CHSFL “AA” Offensive Player of the Year and a two-time first-team All-Long Island selection.  The Most Valuable Player for the 2018 Varsity football team is Matt Sluka.

Boys Varsity Soccer

Shane Salmon

Shane was the “cornerstone” of this team for the last two seasons.  He is the first two time MVP in the last ten years, earned both all-league and all-state recognition by the NSCHSAA, and he will be taking his talents next season to play for the Hofstra Pride.  Shane is the “complete package” and we as a coaching staff are proud of everything Shane has accomplished within his high school career. 

Girls Varsity Soccer

Paulina Valentine

This year’s most valuable player truly understands how one reliable, positive, and mature player can have an amazing impact on the entire team.  As a captain, this player is a leader both on and off the field. She has taken a personal interest in the improvement and success of the team and consistently leads by example.  The combination of her individual talent and her unselfish play has been instrumental in the team’s success. During the season, she repeatedly demonstrated her willingness to put the team’s interests before her own.  It is with great pleasure that the coaches name Paulina Valentine, as this year’s Most Valuable Player.

Carolyn DeFranco

Carolyn DeFranco is an exceptional swimmer who is the epitome of a Most Valuable Player.  She worked hard at every practice and supported her teammates throughout the season. Each meet, Carolyn earned valuable points that helped bring us to victory.  She was our go-to person any time we needed a swimmer to go head to head with the best people on the other teams, and she always came through.  At champs she truly excelled, finishing with top 5 times in the 200 IM and 100 Fly. Carolyn is dedicated, hardworking, and leads by action both inside and outside the pool. She has been an essential part of the team over the past two years and we will miss this talented swimmer greatly as she heads off to college next year!

Varsity Tennis “A”

Maggie Kutner

The success of Kellenberg Varsity Tennis was attributed to the overall fierce competitiveness and talent the team displayed during the season.  But, one young lady led the way, bringing a focus and determination, unlike any other athlete.  Sophomore Maggie Kutner is our choice for Most Valuable Player of 2018.  This is Maggie’s second year on the team, playing second singles since Freshmen year.  Soft-spoken, friendly and polite are what initially comes to mind when you meet her.  Talented and fierce soon come after.  Maggie is an exceptional tennis player, whose talent ranked amongst the top 4 singles players of the NSCHSAA.  With an undefeated league record of 5-0 and non-league record 7-2, Maggie has also been awarded All-League Honors.

She brings a genuine joy to the game and has embraced her position as a talented role model to all on the team.  Pairing up with a fellow friend and teammate, Maggie also competed in the NSCHSAA State Tournament, where they became the 2018 State Doubles Champions.  Her talent is obvious but the dedication she gives to Kellenberg and the sport go above and beyond.  There is no doubt we will witness many more great achievements from Maggie on and off the courts.   

Varsity Tennis “B”

Clarissa Perez-Pecchio

Selecting our most valuable player this season was very easy. On a team, you rely on the most valuable player to consistently come up with a win. This athlete went undefeated this season and she faced some very skilled opponents. She was incredibly sweet and humble and displayed excellent sportsmanship at all times. She was so encouraging of her teammates and always had a smile on her face. What I will remember most about her is that during our finals match, her neck was bothering her. She was choking back tears but insisted on finishing her match. She lost the 1st set narrowly after being down but came back to win the 2nd set and the super tie-break. She showed incredible strength and perseverance when her team was relying on her, you never let us down!!! Congratulations! You certainly earned this award!

Varsity Volleyball

Colleen Moulder

“Ambassador” is a word that is tossed about in government circles, denoting that person who promotes or champions a certain country, group, or ideology.  If I may, for a moment, shift the focus of that term away from diplomacy and to the world of athletics, I can think of no better ambassador for what is right about sports than senior Colleen Moulder.  Colleen plays with character, integrity, and honor at the forefront.  Never a self-promoter, she is always about “team” and the greater good.  Like the Parson in Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales, Colleen adheres to the adage: “If gold rusts, what will iron do?”   Serving as our captain, Colleen was our number one compiler in blocks and our second-most generator in kills.  Her love for the game, her willingness to train outside of the season, and her ability to get along with her teammates are just three of the many gifts she brings to our program.  Without a doubt, Colleen Moulder is the best ambassador a coach could ask for.  Her teachers, her coaches, and her teammates love her because she inspires all of us to greatness.  We may be mere iron most times, but just being in her presence is purely golden.

The season of Advent is one in which we prepare for the coming of our Lord and Savior- in fact, the word Advent literally means “the arrival of a notable person, thing, or event”. Matthew 1:23 states “Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.” For a Christian, our advent is dual- not only do we celebrate the birth of the Son, an event, but the arrival of Jesus Christ, a person- more specifically, He who is destined to save us from an eternity in hell.

As just about everyone knows, the holidays can be a time of chaos. Are the presents for Mom and Dad wrapped? Did we buy enough dip for Saturday’s gathering? Will the tree even fit inside the house? It is all too easy to get wrapped up in our own personal advent- the arrival of relatives from miles away, exciting younger children for the coming of Santa Claus, tearing open packages to find the one thing we really wanted. However, it’s vital to remember that as Christians, we’re called to remember the presence of a larger Advent- the arrival of eternal salvation, here to stay without fear. Celebrate the little details, but remember to take a look at the bigger picture this holiday season- we are preparing for the coming of Christ himself, and that is the most important advent of all.

December comes along and everyone is excited for Christmas and a new year. Lights are being hung, trees are being decorated, and snow is coming down. For many people Christmas is a time of buying presents, cooking, shopping, housing parties or wrapping gifts. Everyone is so overwhelmed and stressed out that they forget the true meaning of Christmas, which is the birth of Jesus, the same Jesus that died on the cross to save us from sins. Christmas is supposed to be a time of year to recognize and appreciate all that Jesus has done for us. Christmas has turned into a commercial holiday rather than a religious one. Although getting presents and spending time with family are all good things but also remembering Christ while doing these things is what’s most important. Christmas is a season of great joy, and is a time of God showing His love for us, but it can also be a time of healing and renewed strength.

By Phoenix Editor Maya Tadross ’19:

On Wednesday, December 5 at 3:30 p.m., Kellenberg Memorial’s Health Science Club and Psychology Club joined together in a packed biology lab to welcome speaker Joanna Formont, Licensed Mental Health Counselor. Ms. Formont has been an individual and group counselor to children and adults in crisis for almost 18 years. She currently works at SIBSPlace at South Nassau Communities Hospital in Hewlett, NY, an incredible program that serves children ages five to seventeen who have a sibling with cancer or another terminal illness. Students listened intently as Ms. Formont described her creative ways of helping these children express their difficult feelings and find positive coping mechanisms. She demonstrated one especially popular therapeutic craft, making a lava lamp: with only oil, water, food coloring, and Alka Seltzer tablets, anyone can create a visually calming grounding tool in minutes.

“Growing up I always knew I wanted to do something in life to help people,” explained Ms. Formont. “Now it’s incredibly rewarding for me to see the children I work with get out their tough emotions and learn to express them in positive ways.”

By Phoenix Editor Anya Murphy ’19:

The Sound of Music, The Drama Club’s fall musical, premiered on Friday, November 16, and was followed by additional shows on Saturday, November 17 and Sunday, November 18. Over 3300 tickets were sold, amounting to over 1000 attendees of each performance and two entirely sold-out shows.

The story of the musical follows Maria, a young Austrian girl who, though she hopes to become a nun, finds love in the most unexpected places. Junior Deidre Ambrosi captured the audience with her portrayal of Maria’s youthful joie de viviré. From her performance, it was clear that she had a profound understanding of who Maria is and how to best present her to an audience. As the musical progresses, Deidre expertly captured Maria’s growth from an air-headed and vivacious young rulebreaker into the type of strong and intelligent woman who was able to protect her family from the Nazis.

Deidre reflected, “For the first month, my Maria was a lot of fabrications and things I tried out and let go after and I was really frustrated with my characterization process. Around mid-October, something clicked in my head as I did my first act one run and I realized that love of life was the sole force behind Maria’s every action. Once I started playing her from that angle the show completely opened up for me and I began to actually enjoy the character instead of stressing about whether or not I was doing it ‘right.’ She is driven by love of children, love of life, love of hills and love of husband, and once I figured that portion of her out, everything made sense and I fell in love with her story all over again.”

When she is sent to the home of Captain von Trapp to become a governess for his seven children, Maria grows in her relationship with the family.

In a reflection of her character’s bond with the von Trapp children, Deidre grew closer to their underclassman and Latin School counterparts.

“The most fun I have probably ever had with a musical number was Do-Re-Mi,” she remarked, “The kids were incredible to work with and we spent a good three rehearsals on just that one number because the blocking is so complicated and it’s such a long and iconic number in the show. Everyone knows it’s coming as soon as the guitar cut in over my lines, and the audience responded really well every single night. Do-Re-Mi was one of my magic moments because it allowed me to bond with the kids right at the top of act one and established a relationship I could build off of for the remainder of the show.”

Stephen Scully ‘19 played the Captain in his last Kellenberg musical, and was able to grow vastly in his skills as an actor through the role.

“One thing I’d say that I learned from my character is how important it is to move forward in life, and that one tragedy can’t define who you are, The Captain in the show never gets over his wife’s death, and as a result becomes a cold, unfeeling father toward his children, and a bitter and angry man at his friends. Through Maria, he learns to open his heart again and become who he should have been all along.”

The scene in which Stephen’s character sings “Edelweiss,” was most challenging for him as an actor.

“The hardest part was definitely learning the guitar, while also having to sing,” he said, “Having to focus on my voice, my facial expressions, and also an instrument that I hardly knew how to play was extremely challenging. I don’t recommend anyone try to learn the guitar in less than a week.”

With the help of the stage crew, who painstakingly sculpted the columns used in the set and practiced moving the complicated pieces of equipment, as well as the audio provided by Jake Metzner ’20 and lighting by Nick Trainor ’19, the show was ready to go on. After months of practicing every day of the week but Sunday, the members of the drama club were sad but relieved to say “So Long, Farewell,” to The Sound of Music.

Stephen said, “My favorite memory of my last musical is was taking my final bow. Knowing that that was the final time I would walk across that stage and say goodbye to my audience was bittersweet, but I will always cherish being able to take that bow arm in arm with my friends.”

Mr. Murphy, the moderator of the Drama club, is now choosing between four plays for the spring show. On Monday, November 26, an informational meeting took stock of interest in future productions.

One of the most famous symbols of Advent is the wreath of candles, which represents the coming of Christ’s light into our darkened world. A particular candle is lit each Sunday of Advent, each with its own special meaning and rooted in a Bible verse according to Catholic tradition. The four candles collectively stand for the four thousand years that passed between Adam and Eve’s time and the birth of our Savior. Independently, however, each take on their own meaning. The first, the prophecy candle named in remembrance of the prophets, has its roots in Isaiah 7:14, the prophet who first foretold of Christ’s coming. The second, the Bethlehem candle, represents Christ’s manger as mentioned in Luke 2:12. The third, the shepherds’ candle, is pink, symbolizing joy at His birth in Luke 2:8-11. The fourth, the angels’ candle, represents peace and can be found in Luke 2:13-14. On Christmas Eve, the fifth and white center candle is lit, the Christ candle, symbolizing the life of the pure and sinless Son who has come into the world. The Advent wreath is a beautiful and symbolic way to keep Christ in Christmas, and to teach younger ones the true meaning of the most important holiday in the Church year.

The word advent derives from the Latin “adventus,” meaning
approach or arrival. During this season, we are called to reflect on
our lives as we await the arrival of Christ. Spiritually, we welcome
Him into our hearts by the power of the Holy Spirit. However, we also
look forward to His promise of the second coming, where God will
redeem and have mercy on our souls.
Advent is a sacred time filled with hope, peace, joy, and love.
Merciful God, wherever we may find ourselves throughout this season,
remind us that our only hope is in you. Prince of Peace, allow us to
be peacemakers within our families, friends, parishes, communities,
and world. Gracious God, we call out to you that we may be reminded of
the everlasting joy one may only experience through you. God, you are
love. Help us to recognize that we are loved. Help us to love others
as you have love us. Amen.