Falcon Alumni Newsletter

No organization can function without the dedication and hard work of the Secretary. Ms. Pam Halewood is beginning her 4th year with HFS. Born and raised in England, she has 2 sons and 1 daughter and 5 “perfect” grandkids. She does just about anything in the school office, except “sweep and windows”. She loves reading, dancing, music, dining out, vanilla candles, and spending time with friends. She is very interested in health foods and nature medicine. She loves the students at HFS.

Sister Mary Russell (1971-1972) was principal for one brief year. After spending time in AL, FL, KY and MO in 1988 she returned to Florida - West Palm Beach and has stayed. She is now retired but that does not mean she does not stay busy! She volunteers at DePorres Place, an adult literacy center in Riviera Beach with Adrian Dominicans as directors. Her student at the present time is a man from Honduras. He is eager to learn and she finds it challenging and rewarding.

Sister Mary is a member of Pax Christi and in a 1993 newsletter received the address of a death row prisoner through a death row support project. She has been corresponding with him ever since. Her passion is to end the death penalty and she writes letters to the editor of the FL Catholic and the Palm Beach Post.

Please join us in congratulating Joanne Donna Wasko as the 2002 Distinguished Graduate. Joanne has been very busy since graduating from HFS in 1983: graduated Trinity College 1991; awarded the Sister Seaton Award for Christian Excellence through community service; and received her Master’s in social work from NYU. She currently works at the NY Presbyterian Hospital, Chelsea Center for Special Studies counseling HIV clients. Joanne is a humanitarian and values and respects each person’s God-given life. The basis for her compassionate nature began with her family and developed through her years of Catholic education.

If you are aware of anyone who might quality for this award, please share that information with Ms. Brinsko. She can be reached at the school office or her email address is imrep@verizon.net. The deadline for submission is 11/1/02.

In almost every note, email, and letter from Alumni I have been asked to include an update on Alumni.After sending out a number of requests, the following individuals would like to share their story with me and you.

Richard attended Bishop Barry and graduated from Northeast in 1965. He received his BA from USF in 1971 and MA from Troy State University. He retired as a Commander after 32 years in the US Navy. He is currently working as a defense contractor at Central Command at McDill AFB. Richard has been married to Ann for 32 years and they have 3 terrific sons.

Thomas graduated from NEHI in 1965; University of Nebraska in 1971 and 1976. He retired from the USAF as a Major in 1985. He has been the Director of Marketing & Business Development for Logivon Technical Services, Inc. since 1996.

He and his wife Sharon have three children: Brian, Lisa, and Deanna. They are proud grandparents of Nathaniel and Morgan.

In addition to USAF assignments in Vietnam, Korea and Germany, Thomas has traveled to China, Russia, Thailand, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Taiwan, Japan, UK, and Western Europe. He received numerous medals and commendations during his military career.

Thomas’ memories of HFS include moving from St. Paul’s to HFS when the school was finally ready. He says that 5 years of Sister Regina Grace provided the best life preparation anyone could hope for. He fondly remembers cleaning the convent chapel on Friday afternoons just to get out of class.

Phyllis graduated from St. Paul’s High School in 1968. She was awarded the HF Women’s Guild scholarship for yearbook editor. She was a member of the NHS and prom court. In 1987 she completed the Florida Bankers Association Supervisor’s Academy. Today she is a VP in Retail Operations for SouthTrust Bank in St. Petersburg, FL. She is a member of HF church and serves as a Eucharist Minister.

Phyllis is married to fellow schoolmate Kenneth Salliotte (1963). Together they have 3 children: Anthony, Daniel, and David. They dote on 2 granddaughters, Ashley and Adrianna. Phyllis and Ken love to travel to Gatlinburg and hope to retire there.

Phyllis remembers the close bond she developed with classmates and teachers, Sister Andrew Irene in particular. Her best friends included Marie Tondreault and Diane Fields. “Thank you, HF, for giving me the foundation to build my character and personality with faith and God as my guide, and continue to stress faith with my family.”

To her classmates Phyllis says “ I hope your lives have been as fun after leaving HF as they were when we were together. I would love to hear from you!” Phyllis can be reached at her email address of psallio50@aol.com.

Susie graduated from CCC in 1979; Emory University in 1983; and Georgia State in 1999. She has received the Emory Distinguished Employee of the Year award.

Susie has a MS in Sport Administration and is part owner of Bay Adventures, a tour operator that specializes in scuba diving trips. Susie is single and has traveled to the Philippines, Mexico, Belize, Bonaire, Honduras, St. Vincent, Bahamas, and Europe.

Susie counts as some of her best memories writing “The Heartbreak of Psoriasis” a fictional soap-opera type novel involving the teachers. She fondly remembers Fr. Lawlor and Sr. Joseph Elise.

Mike graduated from NEHI in 1979 and UF in 1984. He was a member of the Alpha Zeta Honor Fraternity and is a member of the Pinellas County Gator Club. Mike is single and has enjoyed traveling to all 50 states along with extensive travels through Europe, especially Italy.

Mike is SVP and Chief Compliance Officer for Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. He was named Employee of the Year in 1987; and “Man of the Year” for National Association of Administration Professional. He is a current board member for “Speaking UP For Children” which supports the Guardian Ad literature program.

Mike claims he had some great teachers including Sr. Robert Myra, Sr. Joseph Ilese (always talked about “self control), and Mr. Motroni. Youth friendships, especially, Bill Thompson, Dan Brennan, Mike Roche, and Bill Dehaan, were most memorable.

“I hope all have done well and built upon the educational foundation to achieve a rewarding and fulfilling life.” You can reach Mike at mdigrol@verizon.net.

Jill Hayward-Kazmierski - Class of 1983 St Petersburg, FL

Jill graduated from NEHI in 1987 and Eckerd College in 2002. At the present time she is a Bus. Mgr. in Product Marketing for Tech Data Corporation.

Jill has been married to Eric, who also works for Tech Data, for 3 ½ years. With no children at this time they have 2 miniature dachshunds that love to walk around the lake at HF as they only live a block away.

Since they don’t have kids they love to take vacations. Cruises include one to New Orleans this year for Mardi Gras. With season passes to WDW they go at least once a month. Season tickets also take them to Tallahassee for FSU football games (Eric is a FSU graduate.)

Jill’s memories of HFS include when the girls discovered they liked boys, and grad night at WDW. Her best friends included Jennifer Humpel and Jackie Messick.

“I would like to say that I think we did get a better education at HF than we would have in public school. My goal is for my children to attend a private/Catholic school.” And, “if Jennifer or Jackie get this please send me an email.” ericjill@tampabay.rr.com

Sarah Lind - Class of 1987 St. Petersburg, FL

Sarah graduated from NEHI in 1991 and USF in 1996 (BA), 1999 (MA) and will graduated in May 2003 with a PhD. She is a member of Phi Delta Kappa.

Sarah is the Assistant Principal at Lakewood High School in St. Petersburg. Sarah remembers “snack time”, Mr Greenough’s sarcasm, our unique cheerleading uniforms, and Justin Thomas’ bowling shoes.

Best friends include Cathy Hanley, Meg Knapp, and Sara Hearst. If anyone would like to contact Sarah you can email her at linds@pcsb.org or call her at 727-528-4181.

Kelly Daniels Bajsa - Class of 1985 Gainesville, GA

Kelly graduated from St. Pete in 1989; SPJC in 1991: UCF (BS) in 1994 and (MA) in 1996. She is dividing her time as a Speech Pathologist and stay-at home mom. Married in 1998, she has a son Carmeron (2) and a daughter Sydney (1).

Kelly remembers how Mr. Greenough was always making everyone laugh, playing soccer and volleyball, and cheerleading in 8th grade.

“There were only 15 girls in the class-we were all pretty close. At that age, you have a new best friend each week. Hello- hope everyone is doing great!” Reach Kelly at KJB-SLP@webtv.net.

Kathryn Matatino -Class of 1993 Clearwater, FL

Kathryn graduated from NEHI in 1997 and SPJC in 2000. She is presently enrolled as a secondary education major at USF hoping to graduate in 2003. She is in the Phi Sigma Theta National Honor Society at USF. She is single and works as a bartender in Tierra Verde.

Lisa Lesperance - Class of 1994 Gainesville, FL

Lisa is a 1998 graduate of the St. Pete High IB program, 2002 UF graduate with a Photo-Journalism major/Art minor. She received a Florida Merit Scholarship and is listed in Who’s Who of American High School Students in ‘97 & ‘98. She is applying to schools in CA for an animation & art studio degree.

In additional to some overseas travel, Lisa has traveled around the USA for the past 3 years as a competitive swing dancer.

Lisa recalls making lifelong friends at HF- she met her best friend Jessica Howard in 1st grade on the 1st day of school. Sixteen years later they are still best friends, as are their parents (Jessica is engaged to be married next spring.)

“I hope everyone has found success and happiness in their lives.” Email Lisa at LLgators1@aol.com.

Macklyn “McKell” Kelley Moorhead - Class of 1984 St. Petersburg, FL

McKell is a 1988 graduate of SPHS, 1992 graduate of Lawrence University, and 2001 & 2002 graduate of USF. She has earned her BA in English Lit, Masters of Social Work, and Masters of Public Health. Today she is a therapist working with female juvenile offenders in a residential program in Pinellas County.

McKell is single and spends time with her “Little Sister” whom she has known since 1996. She was named Big Sister of the Year in 1988. McKell travels every few years around the USA to visit friends, including Martha Nold in New Orleans.

McKell has many fond memories of the Glee Club concerts, Sr. Frances, St. Patrick’s Day, the PA address system (the “BOX” in the corner or Mr. Greenough’s room), Mrs. Hosack as her Confirmation sponsor, and the 8th grade bench at lunch! She counts among her friends at HF Martha Nold, Amy Thacker, and Juliette Mulholland.

McKell says to all her former classmates, “Get back in touch!” and “I’m planning to run for public office in the next few years...”. Email her at mckellmoorhead@netscape.net or write to her at 310 - 11th Ave. N, St. Petersburg, FL 33701.

Sam Crooks - Class of 1984 St. Petersburg, FL

A 1988 graduate of NEHI, Sam also graduated from USF in 1994 with a BSME degree. He is an Engineering Manager at Honeywell in Clearwater. In 2001 he received the Outstanding Engineer Award from Honeywell.

Sam and his wife Debra are proud parents to twin, one year old sons, Jonathan and Benjamin.

Sam has remained best friends with fellow classmates Kevin Guettler, Shawn Gardner, and David Ditzel. You can reach Sam at samuel.crooks2@gte.net.

If you would like to be included in future newsletters, email current information to HFSALUMNI@aol.com or send it directly to the school office attention Alumni.

Support the School

Just like every other organization it seems, we rely on the generosity of our families and Alumni. The major fundraisers for this school year are listed below. If you can support any, we are very grateful.

The 4th Annual Golf Tournament is set for May 9, 2003 at Mangrove Bay, and the Jog-a-thon for October 24, 2002.

Our biggest fundraiser is the Auction on March 8, 2003. A new fundraiser, HFS Annual Raffle, will kick off on November 1st for a cash prize. Check the school web site for more information on these events, or email HFSALUMNI@aol.com with you questions.

Entertainment Books can be ordered directly through the Internet. Just go to www.entertainment.com and enter our school code 299147.

You can sign up for a Target charge card, a Kmart School Spirit card, or an Albertson’s card all to benefit the school,

We continue to recycle newspaper, collect Campbell labels and “Boxtops for Education” from General Mills products, buy pizza from Papa Johns, sell Village Inn Pie Certificates, and recycled inkjet cartridges.

Purchasing from the internet? We receive a % if you begin at one of these sites and use our name or ID number.

Adopt-a-class is a program that invites businesses or individuals to sponsor a classroom or program. The funds ($150) are used exclusively for the children. The school recognizes the sponsor by placing their name on a special plaque; the class presents the sponsor with a certificate and photo of the class and remembers the sponsor in their daily prayers. Sponsors are welcomed to share their skills and career backgrounds with the students if they desire.

Thank you to all the Alumni and parents of Alumni who have contributed to our Annual Appeal these past two years. In 2001 we received $1,270, and in 2002 we doubled the previous year with $2,555 contributed. We are very excited about these results, and we hope you will seriously consider a donation during the 2003 Annual Appeal.

In June 2002, we said both congratulations and good-bye to Sandra Botero (Spanish/Art grds. 1-5). Sandra got married and moved to NC. We wish God’s blessing on her.

Many of you know that Maureen Zientek has not only been on staff (14 yrs.), but has been going to school and working on her Masters in Guidance. She’s on the last leg which is her internship. Her decision is to do her internship at Christ the King School in Tampa. Therefore, we said good-bye to her also. We wish her well in her new endeavor.

In May we welcomed 28 graduates into the Alumni group. They are attending the following high schools:

St. Petersburg Catholic High School
John Briggs; Staci Columbus; Jessica Condor; Chris Gutierrez; Patrick Higgins; Scott McRoberts; Alex Penna; Jenny Sutherland; Jessica Tavernier; Allie Zulick

Clearwater Central Catholic High School
Corey Clarke; Alina Fabrizzi; Ashley McCarthy; Brett McKean;

Northeast High School
Daniel Angel; Tricia Bullock; Daniel DiNicolantonio; Jessica Kapkowski; Sammy Kerekes; Michael Rivas; Molly Tarbox

Please remember to keep us updated whenever you move or change your email address. We are trying to keep pace with the technology age and hope to even have a message board added to the site at some future date so you can communicate directly with each other.

We hope to eventually be able to notify all our Alumni via email that the Falcon Alumni Newsletter has been posted on the school’s web site. This year we have been able to do that for those of you for which we have current email addresses .

NOTE TO PARENTS: If you received this newsletter at your home it means we do not have a current address for your son or daughter. Please forward this newsletter to them and their current address to us. Thanks.

Lots of things have happened since our last newsletter. A major highlight is the school has opened an early childhood program. Since 8/7/02, we are officially a PreK 3/4 year old through Grade 8 program. The 26 little ones have brought a new dimension to the school. Our plan is to incorporate them right into the school program. They will come and visit the library, attend Friday liturgy with us once a month, and visit the kindergarten classroom a few times during the year. Also, they are already beginning to learn Spanish. Making them feel right at home, will help them to look forward to coming to the “big school” in a year or two!

This past year, we have had a few graduates return for a visit. It makes me chuckle to hear each one talk about the memories of their school days. One of the common comments is, “Everything looks so small!”. I guess when we are in our growing years, things looks so different. They did see many nice changes and were truly impressed. They were glad to see some of their teachers who are still teaching at Holy Family.

Whenever you are in town, feel free to come by and say “Hello”. We love to see our graduates.


October 2002 Vol. 3	*Email us at* HFSALUMNI@aol.com Visit our web site at www.holyfamily-school.com