Mercury

Thank You and See You Soon

jtosto — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 02:48:49 +0000

The graduation article was the last contribution to Mercury for the 2009- 2010 school year. Mercury will be back with new articles for the 2010-2011 school year at the end of August. With all the changes happening at PHS, we are sure that there will be a lot to write about.

This being the first year of Mercury on line,we are very happy with our efforts and we hope that our readers have also enjoyed what they have seen here. Weekly, an average of 250 readers have visited our site, and some weeks, we had 500 visitors ! We are happy with these results and we know that now that we are established and word spreads, we will be attracting even more readers .

We would like to thank Judy Kaplan, for without whom, we would never be on the web.We hope that she enjoys her retirement and also hope that she knows that she will be sorely missed. We will miss not only her technical skills, but her photograhy and writing, her editorial contributions, and her spirit.

We want to give a special shout out to Dottie Bradshaw, who was our most loyal and prolific staff member. We look forward to reading more of her work in the coming years.

Finally, we are actively looking for more contributions to the Mercury from the Peekskill High School Community. This is YOUR newspaper. Students, staff, recent gaduates,and everyone else send pictures, stories, opinions and ideas. We are at phsmercury@gmail.com

See You next month

Jim Tosto

Mercury Advisor

Peekskill High School Commencement Exercises 2010

jtosto — Thu, 01 Jul 2010 12:24:24 +0000

Graduation began at 2pm under the tent on the Parade Field. Family and friends were already assembled, and as the band played Pomp and Circumstance, the staff and students marched in. The 2010 graduation class consisted of 166 students. Mr. Burruano introduced Alanna Lyles who served as the mistress of ceremonies. Speeches were delivered by Student Council President Evelyn Romero, Salutatorians Jessica Curtain and Jason Dick, and Valedictorian Alex Velez- Green. After Assistant Principals Hersh and Reyes read the names, the graduates came up to the stage to receive their diplomas and be congratulated by Superintendent Johnson and members of the Board of Education. Senior advisors, Ms. Norton and Mr. Hubbard , continued to help organize the students as they have helped them the past four years. Superintendent Johnson urged the graduates to go out and make a difference in the world. The High School PTO presented Principal Burruano with a framed picture of the ” hanging tree” as a memento of his 42 years of service. PHS spirit was strong on Sunday and the heartfelt cheers at end of the ceremony was a sound that everyone will remember.

For more photos go to

http://jukebox.lohud.com/photos/refers/index.php?galleryyear=2010&tag1=PEEK&town=WEST&sport=grad2010§ion=GRADUATION

Videos to be put up soon

Getting Ready for the Show

jtosto — Tue, 29 Jun 2010 12:30:37 +0000

After four years of hard work and two practices conducted by Ms Hersh and Ms. Reyes, the Class of 2010 had just a little more to do before the Graduation Ceremony began. As tradition dictates, the cerenony was held under the tent out on the Parade Field and also as usual, the Commencement was well attended by friends and family. Hot weather on Graduation Day is also a tradition here at PHS, and Sunday proved to follow that tradition well. The graduates left after the ceremony a little wilted, but with with bright ,well deserved smiles on their faces.

(Staff too)

jtosto — Tue, 29 Jun 2010 12:10:47 +0000

Teachers, Support Personnel, Administrators, Board of Education Members, Common Council Members, and of course, Superintendent Judith Johnson all donned robes and participated in Sunday’s Commencement procession. It was bittersweet for some retiring staff members, especially Principal Burruano, for whom 2010 will be his last graduating class.

The Class of 2010 Cleans Up

jtosto — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 14:16:45 +0000

Last night the annual Senior Awards Ceremony was held at The Paramount Theater. What a night it was! In front of an audience filled with parents, staff, friends, and family, dozens of seniors received awards, certificates, medals, and MONEY!! The event was hosted by Principal Burruano and Assistant Principals Hersh and Reyes. Altogether 27 awards and 71 scholarships were given out. The excitement really started when Ms. Daisy Brand distributed 15 Camp Inc. Achievers Scholarships worth $1,ooo each . By the time Mr, Burruano announced that the Gates Millennium Scholarship that Joe Vele won was in the hunreds of thousands of dollars range, the mood had become electric. In between, individual seniors reaped in hundreds and in many cases thousands of dollars. Hard work certainly did pay off last night. In addition to the students work, much of the credit for the night goes to Mrs. Gordineer, whose work in the guidance department assisted the students in securing the scholarships. The night ended with Superintendent Johnson acknowledging the retirement of Principal Burruano and the crowd rising to give him a standing ovation.

SENIOR AWARDS

1 – THE PRESIDENT’S AWARD FOR EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE

CERTIFICATE

This award is to recognize and honor those students who have achieved high academic goals by their hard work and dedication to learning. Qualifications include a 90 average in academic subjects, personal qualities such as high motivation, integrity and initiative and a placement at the 80^th percentile or above on standardized achievement tests or college admission examinations.

ALEX VELEZ-GREEN DESTINY DEMELO

JESSICA CURTIN JULIANA TERJESEN

JASON DICK DANNY BUSH

JOSEPH VELE DANIEL LUNA

EMELYN MENDEZ CHRISTIAN GARRIDO

2 – THE PRESIDENT’S AWARD FOR EDUCATIONAL ACHIEVEMENT

CERTIFICATE

This award is given to students in recognition of their commitment to learning and intellectual development in their academic subjects and for their school achievement.

THERESA D’ANGELO TOSHIO WARREN

KAREN LAZARO CYNTHIA RIVADENEIRA

EVELYN ROMERO BRIANNE KANE

3 – THE PRESIDENT’S VOLUNTEER SERVICE AWARD

This award is given to students who have performed 150 to 250 hours of community service within a 12- month period.

BRONZE PINS 150 HRS SILVER PINS 175HRS

SEAN SMYTHE JESSICA CURTIN

FRANCIS ZALEWSKI JAMIE SANCHEZ

CASSANDRA MCCALMAN SAMANTHA TORRES

JULIA VELESACA

GOLD PINS 250 HRS

DANNY BUSH STACY RIBEIRO

JASON DICK EVELYN ROMERO

CHRISTIAN GARRIDO JOSEPH VELE

JOHN CARLO GARRIDO

4 – JOE BELLE MEMORIAL AWARD $50

This award is given in memory of Joe Belle, who worked for the University of Dayton for over thirty years. It is given to a varsity athlete who has demonstrated a commitment and dedication to their sport.

JAMIE SANCHEZ

5 – THE PEEKSKILL ROTARY CLUB AND JOHN DEVINS AWARD

This award is given annually to one of the top male athletes of the senior class.

DAQUAN BRICKHOUSE

6 – THE NEW YORK STATE COMPTROLLER ACHIEVEMENT AWARD CERTIFICATE

This award is given to a student who has demonstrated leadership potential and a commitment to public service.

TOSHIO WARREN

7 – THE FERGUSON PRIZE $25

This award is presented to a student in the senior class who has consistently demonstrated superiority in service, leadership and patriotism.

DANNY BUSH

8 – THE UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS DISTINGUISHED ATHLETE AWARD CERTIFICATE

This certificate is awarded to a student who displays courage, poise, self-confidence and leadership as a high school athlete.

KELLY MENDELLO & SEAN SMYTHE

9 – THE UNITED STATES MARINE “SEMPER FIDELIS” AWARD FOR MUSICAL EXCELLENCE CERTIFICATE

The “SEMPER FIDELIS” award for musical excellence is presented by the United States Marines Youth Foundation, Incorporated and the Marine Corps League in recognition of diligence, dedication and musical excellence.

VERTIS MCMILLAN

10- THE UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS SCHOLASTIC EXCELLENCE AWARD CERTIFICATE

This award is presented to a senior recognized for academic excellence and who is an outstanding young citizen

CYNTHIA RIVADENEIRA

11 – THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN, WESTCHESTER OUTSTANDING STUDENT AWARD

CERTIFICATE & GIFT

This award is given to a student who demonstrates service to her school, academic ability, and potential for future service to women in solution of social and civic problems.

ALANNA LYLES

12- THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN, WESTCHESTER EXCELLENCE IN WRITING AWARD

CERTIFICATE & GIFT

This award is given to a student who demonstrates excellence in creative as well as formal writing

BRIANNE KANE

13 – THE LAURA CROFT MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP $50

This award is presented annually to a senior who has demonstrated a high degree of proficiency in the area of mathematics and who intends to pursue a career in mathematics.

DESTINY DEMELO

14 – THE SCOTT CAMERA AWARD $25 GIFT CERTIFICATE

This award is presented to the Peekskill High School senior with outstanding achievement in photography.

THERESA D’ANGELO

15 – THE MANHATTAN COLLEGE MEDAL IN HONOR OF PETER L. WATERS MEDAL

This award is donated by the Manhattan College Alumni Society in memory of their great track coach Peter L. Waters. This award is given to a senior in recognition for student leaderships; athletic as well as academic success.

NICOLE CUMMINGS

16 – THE LATINO CULTURE CLUB AWARD GIFT

This award is given to seniors who have participated in the Latino Culture Club and contributed to furthering the development of the Hispanic culture.

JOHANNA HIDALGO $30 DENISSE UZHCA $50

NANCY VILLA $30

CYNTHIA RIVADENEIRA $100 EMELYN MENDEZ $400

KATHERINE JIMENEZ $100 KAREN LAZARO $400 JAMIE SANCHEZ $400

17- THE MANFRED LOWEN MEMORIAL AWARD $50

This award is given annually to a student in the current graduating class of Peekskill High School, who in the opinion of the faculty and the principal manifests an appreciation of the rights of others in a democratic society and an appreciation of education.

EDGAR ARPI

18- THE EUGENE CASERTA MEMORIAL AWARD $ 50

This award is given to an individual who has fostered school spirit and pride in their school.

TAI’ANA SEARIGHT

19- DEPARMENT OF THE ARMY

CERTIFICATE & MEDAL

This award is presented to the students who have demonstrated excellence in both Academics and Athletics.

JESSICA CURTIN & TOSHIO WARREN

20 – THE WILLIAM STERN POST NO. 70 PEEKSKILL JEWISH WAR VETERANS

$ 25

This award is presented to the student, who in the opinion of the faculty and the principal has shown outstanding interest and respect for our American heritage.

DANIEL LUNA

21– THE VFW POST 746 PEEKSKILL SCHOLARSHIP

$100

This award is given to a student who shown patriotism for their country and community service.

LAUREN PRAIRRIE

22– THE COLLEGE OF WESTCHESTER AWARD

CERTIFICATE

This award is presented to students in the senior class who have shown excellence in Business Education and Computer Technology.

TIRA SKAGGS EMELYN MENDEZ UMER SARWAR

23– BERKELEY COLLEGE ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

CERTIFICATE

This award is presented to a student in recognition of outstanding achievement in high school business education

EMELYN MENDEZ

24– BERKELEY COLLEGE PERSEVERANCE AWARD

CERTIFICATE

This award is presented to a student in recognition of outstanding perseverance in high school business education

SHAVAR GREENE

25 – WENDY’S HIGH SCHOOL HEISMAN

CERTIFICATE

This award is given to an athlete who also excelled in the classroom and community service.

ALANNA LYLES

26– JEWISH VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS

These awards are presented to students who have demonstrated academic success.

VALERIE WATERMAN $25 MARCO ANDRADE $100

27– THE NATIONAL COUNCIL OF NEGRO WOMEN, INC

These awards are presented to students who have demonstrated outstanding achievement in academic, performing arts, church service, athletics and community service.

ALANNA LYLES JACQUELINE PETERS

CASSANDRA MCCALMAN KEENAN KING

DAQUAN BRICKHOUSE SEAN SMYTHE

DANNY BUSH TRAVIS SHILLINGFORD

EMELYN MENDEZ TOSHIO WARREN

EVELYN ROMERO

PEEKSKILL HIGH SCHOOL COMMENCEMENT

SCHOLARSHIP/AWARDS

JUNE 22, 2010

1- NYS DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION 2010 SCHOLARSHIPS FOR ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

These scholarships are allocated by the State of New York in proportion to the school’s population and selected by a formula. Students must be citizens or hold permanent residence status and must attend a college in New York State to receive the award.

ALEXANDER VELEZ -GREEN $1,500

JESSICA CURTIN $ 500

JASON DICK $ 500

CHRISTIAN JOHN GARRIDO $ 500

JOSEPH VELE $ 500

EMELYN MENDEZ $ 500

2 – CAMP INC. ACHIEVERS’ SCHOLARSHIP

(Presented by Daisy Brand) $1,000 each

This award is sponsored by the Elton Brand Family Foundation: It is presented to seniors who have demonstrated the discipline and fortitude to overcome extreme circumstances and a difficult environment, to stay the course and achieve academic success in the form of a high school diploma.

DAQUAN BRICKHOUSE SEAN SMYTHE

ARYAN CABELL CLAUDIA TEJADA

ZOILA CHILLOGALLO ALEXANDER VELEZ- GREEN

CHRISTOPHER MORGAN ANGIE VIEIRA

LUISA PALTIN SHANISHA SESSION

KENNETH PHILLIPS LAQUANDA JOHNSON

JAMIE SANCHEZ

TAI’ANA SEARIGHT

3 – THE LOUIS PANZANARO III SCHOLARSHIP FUND

These scholarships are awarded to senior basketball players who have demonstrated scholarship, leadership and a winning attitude against all odds.

THE LOUIS PANZANARO III MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

DAQUAN BRICKHOUSE $1,000

SEAN SMYTHE $1,000

4 – THE PEEKSKILL HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT COUNCIL AWARD

FOR EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION

Presented by Ms Alison Risoli – Mr. Paul Coster

These awards are granted by the advisor of the Student Council for students who have made a major contribution to student government and the Peekskill High School Community.

JASON DICK $ 500 JOSEPH VELE $500

CHRISTIAN GARRIDO $ 500 DANNY BUSH $500

JOHN CARLO GARRIDO $ 500

EVELYN ROMERO $1,000

STACY RIBEIRO $1,000

5 – THE INTERACT CLUB ALTON CLEMENTE MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Presented by Ms Alison Risoli – Interact Advisor

These scholarships are awarded to major contributing members of the Interact Club in memory of a former Peekskill High School Student and Interact member.

SAMANTHA TORRES $100 SEAN SMYTHE $100

JULIA VELESACA $100 JESSICA CURTIN $100

EVELYN ROMERO $300 STACY RIBEIRO $300

JOHN CARLO GARRIDO $300 CHRISTIAN GARRIDO $300

JOSEPH VELE $300 DANNY BUSH $300

JASON DICK $300

6 – THE ALLISON L. RISOLI SCHOLARSHIP FOR SERVICE

Presented by Ms Alison Risoli $500

This award is being given to a student who has dedicated themselves to service and sees service as an important part of their life. The recipient is a selfless person who sees giving as a way to contribute to the beauty of our world.

STACY RIBEIRO

7 – THE REVEREND DR. G. FRANKLIN WIGGINS MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP $500 each

These awards are granted to students who compete by application for this scholarship from their church.

DAQUAN BRICKHOUSE TAI’ANA SEARIGHT

LAURA EGAN KENNETH PHILLIPS

WILMER ARPI

8- THE NORMAN A. KROPF MEMORIAL ART AWARD $200

This award is presented to an outstanding art student.

JAMIE SANCHEZ

9 – THE WOMEN’S CLUB OF PEEKSKILL/CORTLANDT SCHOLARSHIP $250

This award is given to a senior who ranks third in the graduating class and who has been accepted at an accredited four years college or university.

CHRISTIAN GARRIDO

10- THE PEEKSKILL FACULTY ASSOCIATION SCHOLARSHIP $650

This scholarship is awarded to a college bound senior in the top 10% of the class with a combined score of 1,000 or above on SAT exam and who has demonstrated community and school involvement. Student selection is based upon acceptance to a four year college and submission of an essay indicating plans for the future.

DESTINY DE MELO

11 – THE PEEKSKILL ASSOCIATION OF EDUCATIONAL SECRETARIES’ SCHOLARSHIP IN MEMORY OF RUTH E. POWELL $250

This award is granted to a graduating student who intends to pursue post-secondary education in the area of business.

SHAVAR GREENE

12 – THE PEEKSKILL ASSOCIATION OF EDUCATIONAL SECRETARIES’ SCHOLARSHIP

$100

This award is granted to a graduating student who intends to pursue post-secondary education in the field of business.

JESSYCA SMYTHE

13 – THE VINCENT BURRUANO SR. MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP $150

This award is given in memory of Vincent Burruano Sr. who was an individual who had a great love and appreciation for learning throughout his long and productive life.

SAMANTHA TORRES

14 – THE REGINA PANZANARO MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP $300

This award is given in memory of Regina Panzanaro, a graduate and life long supporter of Peekskill High School. It is given to a student who worked to their potential in school and participated in activities.

TAI’ANA SEARIGHT

15 – THE PEEKSKILL ROTARY CLUB HISPANIC/LATINO SCHOLARSHIP $ 500 each

This award is granted to a local high school student who exemplifies in their deeds and words, a contribution towards multicultural awareness and unity building.

KAREN LAZARO & JAMIE SANCHEZ

16 – THE FRANK COLOMBINI SR. MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP $ 100

This scholarship is given in memory of Frank Colombini Sr., a devoted family man and a highly decorated veteran of World War II who spent his career working in New York City’s garment district. This award is presented to a student who has excelled academically and will be pursuing further studies in Education.

LAURA EGAN

17 – THE PEEKSKILL ROTARY CLUB FELLOWSHIP AWARD $ 500

This award is granted to a well-rounded student with an excellent academic record and great potential.

JOHN CARLO GARRIDO

18 – THE HONORABLE NORBERT EHRENFREUND HUMAN RELATIONS SCHOLARSHIP

$ 150 Name added to Plaque

This scholarship is awarded every year to a senior who has demonstrated an interest in and worked towards improving human relations within the school and the Peekskill community.

DESTINY DE MELO

19 – THE PEEKSKILL ROTARY CLUB SCHOLARSHIP AWARD $500

This award is granted to the Valedictorian of the senior class.

ALEXANDER VELEZ- GREEN

20 – THE JOHN NGUYEN SCHOLARSHIP $500 each

This scholarship was endowed by John Nguyen, a PHS graduate, who came to the United States as a refugee from Vietnam. Speaking not a word of English, John achieved the “American Dream.” It is awarded to a student who best exemplifies the character of John Nguyen and who will be attending college.

CYNTHIA RIVADENEIRA & MARCO ANDRADE

21- THE PEEKSKILL LIONS CLUB $ 500

This award is granted to a college bound senior who competed by application to the Lions Club.

SEAN SMYTHE

22 – PEEKSKILL ROTARY CLUB “GEORGE SAMPSON SCHOLARSHIP “ $1,000

This scholarship award is presented to a student to purchase the required and or necessary tools for the vocation of their choice.

LUIS CHIMBO

23 – ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY, INC. NU PSI ZETA CHAPTER ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE &

DEBRA E. HOLCOMBE COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD

(Presented by Lesi Suarez)

This award was named for Debra Holcomb, a Peekskill High School graduate and member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority who was a staunch advocate of community activities.

EMELYN MENDEZ $300 KAREN LAZARO $700 ALANNA LYLES $1,000

24 – INDIVIDUAL ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT SCHOLARSHIP $125 each

This award is presented to the students who have shown academic growth over 4 years at Peekskill HS.

KENNETH PHILLIPS & CHERELLE BROWN

25 – KONNERTH MUSIC AWARD $200

This award is presented annually to a graduating senior who shows promise in the field of music. The recipient must have participated in the high school band and/ or chorus for at least two years.

CASSANDRA MCCALMAN

26 – THE HUDSON VALLEY BLOOD SERVICES AWARD $ 125 each

This award is presented to a student at our school who best demonstrates character, enthusiasm and effective leadership in organizing the student blood drive.

EVELYN ROMERO & STACY RIBEIRO

27 – THE PEEKSKILL TEACHER AIDE AWARD IN MEMORY OF ALL DECEASED AIDES

$100

This award is presented to a member of the senior class who has been a model citizen in high school and who intends to pursue post-secondary education.

LAURA EGAN

28 – THE PEEKSKILL TEACHER AIDE AWARD IN MEMORY OF JOSEPHINE CIARDULLO

$100

This award is presented to a member of the senior class who has been a model citizen in high school and who intends to pursue post-secondary education.

ANGIE VIEIRA

29 – VICTOR L. RIDDER SCHOLARSHIP $500

This award is granted to a graduating senior whose leadership and service have benefited their school or their community. It is sponsored by the Westchester Putnam Guidance Counselor Association.

ALEXANDER VELEZ -GREEN

30 – PHYLLIS MICKISH BIOLOGY AWARD $100

This award is presented to the student who has excelled in Biology throughout their high school career and maintained exemplary behavior and attendance.

DESTINY DE MELO

31 – THE EDWARD SHULMAN AWARD $200

This award is given in memory of Edward Shulman, a Teacher of music in the Peekskill School system for many years. It is presented to a student in the graduating class who has demonstrated excellence in the field of music

JULIANA TERJESEN

32 – KEVIN J. BUTLER MEMORIAL AWARD $100

This scholarship is granted to a senior BCC member in memory of Kevin Gerald Butler, son of Carlos Ann Butler founder of the PHS BCC.

ALANNA LYLES

33- PETER KRISTOPH MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP $300

This scholarship is awarded to a student who has shown commitment to their education and respect for their classmates.

DANIEL LUNA

34 – PEEKSKILL ROTARY DANIEL SADOFSKY MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

$500 each

The award is given to an involved member of the Interact Club who has committed time and effort to serve.

EVELYN ROMERO & STACY RIBEIRO

35– VIETNAM VETERANS OF AMERICA $600

This award is presented to a high school senior who as the child or grandchild of a Veteran, has demonstrated academic achievement, participation in extracurricular activities and an understanding of service to our country.

JESSICA CURTIN

36– XI CHI OMEGA ALPHA KAPPA SORORITY, INC MATH/SCIENCE $1,000

This award recognizes an African American woman who has demonstrated consistently strong motivation to achieve and community activities.

ALANNA LYLES

37– COURTLANDT LODGE No. 34 FREE & ACCEPTED MASONS $500

This award is presented to a student who has achieved academic excellence in his or her science studies.

ALEXANDER VELEZ- GREEN

38– JENNA’S DREAM PERFORMING ART SCHOLARSHIP $750

This award is presented to a student who is majoring /minoring in the performing arts.

JASON DICK

39– THE CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS SOCIETY OF PEEKSKILL $500

This award is presented to a student who has shown academic and personal achievements.

THERESA D’ANGELO

40– WESTCHESTER & PUTNAM COUNTIES ASSOCIATION OF TOWN SUPERINTENDENTS OF HIGHWAYS, INC $1,000

This award is granted to a graduating student who intends to major in the field of Public Works, Operations and/or Management, Engineering or environmental studies.

SEAN SMYTHE

41– THE WORKING CHURCHES OF WESTCHESTER COUNTY AND VICINITY $500

This award is presented to a student who has been involved in community service.

ALANNA LYLES

42- THE PEEKSILL HIGH SCHOOL BLACK CULTURE CLUB AWARD

These awards are presented to students who are in the Black Culture Club in honor of Carlos Ann Butler, founder of the PHS BCC.

TAI’ANA SEARIGHT $250 ALANNA LYLES $250

The Black Culture Club would also like to present awards to the following students for their efforts and participation in the Cablevision “Power to Learn” Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. documentary presentation.

JASON DICK $100 ALEXANDER VELEZ -GREEN $100

LAURA EGAN $100 JESSICA CURTIN $100

43- MASONIC CORINTHIAN LODGE #44 $ 500

This award is granted to African-American males who competed by application and are selected by the Lodge.

SEAN SMYTHE

44- NORMAN BERRY MEMORIAL AWARD $ 150

This award is given in memory of Norman Berry, the father of former teacher and Coach Ray Berry. It is given to a student who has demonstrated strong work habits and a desire to succeed in the future.

MARIBEL VERAS

45- THE SPECIAL EDUCATION PARENT/ TEACHER ORGANIZATION SCHOLARSHIP $ 250 each

This award is sponsored by SEPTO and goes to two graduating seniors who have benefited from Special Education Services and who plan on furthering their education in college.

TAI’ANA SEARIGHT & CHRISTOPHER OLSEN

46-THE CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS LADIES SCHOLARSHIP $125

This scholarship is provided by the Christopher Columbus Ladies Auxiliary to a student of Italian descent.

DESTINY DE MELO

47- AMERICAN LEGION MUSIC AWARD $ 100 each

This award is given to a students in the graduating class who have demonstrated excellence in the field of music

BRIANNE KANE & VERTIS MCMILLAN

48- FRANK R. MERRIWEATHER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP $ 250 each

Frank R. Merriweather was a dedicated husband of 48 years, a devoted father of four, and a loving grandfather of nine and a wonderful great grandfather to one. He always stressed the importance of a good education. Accept this scholarship in the spirit in which our dad lived his life with humility, honor, respect and concern for others. This award is made possible by contributions from the modified football team and the Merriweather family.

TAI’ANA SEARIGHT & TOSHIO WARREN

49- THE GARDEN CLUB OF PEEKSKILL SCHOLARSHIP $1,000

This award is granted to a graduating student who intends to pursue post-secondary education in the area of horticulture.

STEVEN HOUSER

EVERY YEAR A GROUP OF SCHOLARSHIPS ARE ADMINISTERED BY THE PEEKSKILL HIGH SCHOOL SCHOLARSHIP FUND COMMITTEE. (PHSSFC) THE COMMITTEE WAS ESTABLISHED IN 1929 TO SUPPORT ACADEMICALLY QUALIFIED SENIORS WHO INTEND TO PURSUE FURTHER EDUCATION AND WHO ARE IN NEED OF FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE. THE SCHOLARSHIPS ARE:

v THE SARAH T. BAKER AWARD

v THE PIETRO A. & LEILA MEAD DELUCA MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

v THE ROBERT D. FULLENWEIDER MEMORIAL AWARD

v THE BILLY LOEWY MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

v RONALD PACCHIANA MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

v THE KATHERINE WASSERSCHEID SCHOLARSHIP

AND THIS YEAR THE SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDEES ARE:

50 – THE PIETRO A. AND LEILA MEAD DELUCA MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

$4,000 over 4 years

This scholarship is awarded to a student who has proven academic potential and who has achieved at a very level.

JASON DICK

51 – THE KATHERINE WASSERSCHEID SCHOLARSHIP (PHSSFC)

This award is in memory of Katherine Wasserscheid who was a former teacher in the Peekskill School district. It is granted by the Peekskill High School Scholarship Fund Committee.

LUISA PALTIN $300 MARCO ANDRADE $300

TRAVIS SHILLINGFORD $300 JAMIE SANCHEZ $300

KAREN LAZARO $400

52 – THE ROBERT D. FULLENWEIDER MEMORIAL AWARD (PHSSFC) $300

This scholarship is presented to a senior who has demonstrated academic excellence.

SEAN SMYTHE

53 – RONALD PACCHIANA MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP $500

This award is granted yearly by the Peekskill High School Scholarship Committee to a deserving student.

TOSHIO WARREN

54 – SARAH T. BAKER AWARD (PHSSFC) $600

This award is in memory of Miss Sarah T. Baker, former teacher and dean of girls at Peekskill High School.

LAURA EGAN

55 – THE BILLY LOWEY MEMORIAL AWARD

This award is granted yearly to a student who has demonstrated the potential to successfully continue their education at a college or university.

EDGAR ARPI $300 KATHERINE JIMENEZ $300

SAMANTA VALLADARES $400

CASSANDRA MCCALMAN $500

56 – DELUCA MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIPS

These awards are granted yearly by the Peekskill High School Scholarship Committee to deserving students.

JULIA VELESACA $300 KEENAN KING $300

EMELYN MENDEZ $400

57- SEAN MCGUINESS MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP $500

The McGuiness family has donated this award in memory of Sean McGuiness who passed away this year. Sean had for many years served the Peekskill Schools by being on both the Peekskill school board and also the school board at BOCES. This award is given to a student who attended the tech center at BOCES and who plans to continue their training at a post-secondary institution next year.

NATHANIEL MARRERO

58 – RETIRED EDUCATORS CHAPTER OF PEEKSKILL FACULTY ASSOCIATION $1,500 each

This award is presented to a student who intends to major in Education.

THERESA D’ANGELO & LAURA EGAN

59 – THE HUDSON VALLEY GATEWAY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SCHOLARSHIP $1,000

This scholarship is awarded to a senior who has excelled in academic leadership and community service.

JULIANA TERJESEN

60- AMERICAN RED CROSS JEROME & LAURA HOLLAND SCHOLARSHIP $1,000

This scholarship is awarded to a senior who has exemplary efforts in community service and academics.

EVELYN ROMERO

61 – THE MARY L. COOKE SCHOLARSHIP $800 each

This scholarship is provided by the Bank of New York from the will of Mary L. Cooke to outstanding deserving students in the graduating class.

CHRISTIAN GARRIDO & JULIANA TERJESEN

62– THE AUXILIARY OF HUDSON VALLEY HOSPITAL CENTER $1,000

This award is granted to a graduating student who intends to pursue a career in healthcare.

JESSICA CURTIN

63 – THE NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY AWARD: PEEKSKILL CHAPTER Laptop Computer

This award is granted to a senior member of the National Honor Society who exhibits the society’s Principles of Scholarship, Leadership, Service and Character.

THERESA D’ANGELO

64 – NYS MATH HONOR SOCIETY AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN MATHEMATICS Laptop computer

These scholarships are awarded to students selected by the Math Honor Society.

JASON DICK

65 – THE JOHN DEVINS MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIPS

These awards have been donated by MaryLou Devins Staropoli in memory of her father. John Devins was a former coach, Athletic Director and Principal in the Peekskill schools. This award is given to outstanding senior athletes who are also successful in school.

CYNTHIA RIVADENEIRA $300 KEENAN KING $300

NICOLE CUMMINGS $300 MARCO ANDRADE $300

EMILY JONES $300 KELLY MENDELLO $300

ANTHONY RONCA $300

JAMIE SANCHEZ $500 JOHN CARLO GARRIDO $500

JASON DICK $500 VERTIS MCMILLAN $500

DANIEL LUNA $500

THERESA D’ANGELO $1,000 TOSHIO WARREN $1,000

BRIANNE KANE $1,000

JESSICA CURTIN $2,500

66– CITRIN COOPERMAN & COMPANY, LLP $4,000 over 4 years

This award is granted to a graduating student who intends to pursue post-secondary education in the area of Business or Accounting.

KAREN LAZARO

67– JANDON SCHOLARS $10,000 over 4 years

This scholarship is sponsored by the Jandon Foundation and is awarded to a student with a strong academic record who also has significant financial need for college.

EMELYN MENDEZ & JOSEPH VELE

68– THE GATES MILLENNIUM SCHOLARSHIP

This grant is given to a student who has significant financial need to promote academic excellence and the opportunity to each his/her potential. This scholarship will cover the full cost of tuition at the school the student will attend renewable each year.

JOSEPH VELE

69 – HOPE FOR YOUTH FOUNDATION JOAN GOLDSTEIN SCHOLARSHIP

$2,000 over 2 years

This scholarship is awarded to a person who has been a successful student and who has performed significant community service.

EVELYN ROMERO

70 – THE HARRY MATTIN SCHOLARSHIP $4,000 over 4 years

This award is presented to a senior who is an outstanding student in science and who has an intention to pursue a career in science or a related field.

ALEXANDER VELEZ- GREEN

71 – WESTCHESTER COUNTY BOARD MILLY KIBRICK YOUTH SERVICE AWARD

$5,000

This award is granted by Westchester County for outstanding community service.

EVELYN ROMERO

There are many students who have been awarded full and/or partial scholarships by the Colleges and Universities they expect to attend. We would like to honor and congratulate each and every one of our students.

Brother & Sister Valedictorians

jkaplan — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 17:18:12 +0000

Nicole Velez-Green was Valedictorian in 2008. Alex Velez-Green is Valedictorian in 2010. These two outstanding students share one important thing in common besides living in the same family – they both believe working hard will get you success.

Here’s more that they have in common.

They both chose the challenges of difficult colleges: Nicole attends Binghamton University and Alex will attend Harvard. Nicole is excited by the many excellent programs available and Alex feels challenges make him a better person.
They both are interested in Public Service to make the world a better place. Nicole is in the fast track BA program where she’ll earn a BA in Political Science after 3 years, then go straight into a two year Masters program in Public Administration (MPA). She wants to work for a non-profit organization like Amnesty International or Human Rights Watch. Alex also wants to do Public Service work of some sort, possibly even in the CIA or the Military.
And they both want students here to know they all can achieve more than they expect. Alex’s advice is to work real hard and aim high. Nicole wants students to realize that their current pressures here in Peekskill are temporary, that they should focus on the future – because the future holds so many opportunities to remain optimistic about.

Congratulations to our sister and brother Valedictorians – we at PHS are proud of their achievements!

The Class of 2014 Arrives!

jtosto — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 16:55:52 +0000

On Monday, the new 9th grade class came up to the high school for an orientation visit. They took a tour, met with staff and students, and learned about what would be expectected of them now that they are students of Peekskill High School. The group looked promising and it is expected that they will be successful and make their parents and the whole school community proud.

PHS Makes Newsweek’s Top High Schools List!

jkaplan — Thu, 17 Jun 2010 14:47:07 +0000

“Each year, Newsweek picks the best high schools in the country based on how hard school staffs work to challenge students with advanced placement college-level courses and tests. Just over 1600 schools—only six percent of all the public schools in the U.S.—made the list.”

“Newsweek calculates the school’s ranking by taking the total number of Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate or Cambridge (AICE) tests given at a school each year and divides by the number of seniors graduating in May or June. All public schools . . . that achieved a ratio of at least 1.000, meaning they had as many tests in 2009 as they had graduates, were put on the list on the NEWSWEEK Web site. Each list is based on the previous year’s data, so the 2010 list has each school’s numbers for 2009.”

There are more than 25,000 high schools in the nation. Based on the Newsweek formula, Peekskill High School is rated #719 in the nation!

We, at Peekskill High School, provide our students with many different opportunities for intellectual growth. We encourage our students to take the more challenging and rigorous courses such as AP and college level courses as preparation for college and life beyond high school. We are proud that so many of our students have responded by enrolling in these courses, and we will continue to inspire our students to aspire!

Class of 2011 Car Wash

jtosto — Thu, 17 Jun 2010 12:09:22 +0000

On Saturday, the Class of 2011 held a car wash to raise funds for their prom and other activities. The event was held on Main St. in the parking lot next to City Hall. The students,with the assistance of Ms. Rob and their advisor , Ms. Imhof, washed lots of cars. There was a good turn out and it was great to see the students working together. They did a fine job on this reporter’s two vehicles!

Brickhouse Jumps 6′6″!

jkaplan — Wed, 16 Jun 2010 17:28:39 +0000

We knew Daquan Brickhouse could jump high to make a basket. What we didn’t know is that he could do the high jump in a track meet! Daquan cleared 6′6″ to win the Section 1 NYS qualifier meet at Arlington HS on May 28th, 2010. Way to go Daquan!