Recent Mepham Press Releases

Daniel Stein	Benjamin Spear
Two students from Mepham High School were the winners of the Irish Cultural Society of Garden City contest. Evan Daniel Stein received first prize and $100.00. His teacher is Ms. Claire Paccione. Benjamin Spear received third prize and $50.00. His teacher is Ms. Rosemary Steel. The students were part of a group of 265 talented writers who submitted entries in a 16th century style. The following students received Honorable Mention and $25.00: Abigail Agoglia, Eleni Giorgios, Jessica Harbulak, Alison Perrino, Jami Shapiro, Hope Boyarsky and Jason Tsai.

Mepham’s Virginia Beach band trip of 2006 was an unqualified success. It was made possible through student fundraisers, and the hard work of Mr. Brian Neiderman and the band officers. Hours of preparation went into both jazz band and wind ensemble rehearsals to perfect their pieces. On competition day, we boarded buses and headed for the site where schools from Maryland, Virginia, Ohio, New Jersey and New York competed. The bus ride was quieter than usual, and it seemed as if everyone was mentally preparing to perform their best. The jazz band played three pieces for the judges: Marketplace, Critical Mass, and Another Excuse for Playing the Blues. These pieces included solos from Robert Gambo (alto sax) and Michael Farkas (lead trumpet). The jazz band was great and the other bands watched anxiously in the audience for their turn. Once the jazz band finished, the wind ensemble played three songs: Washington Post March, Prelude and Fugu and Silverado. The next day, the bands went to the awards ceremony, which was held in Busch Gardens at the Ample Theatre. All the competing schools were invited, and everyone was eager to find out how they did. The results were great. The jazz band won 1st place with an “Excellent” rating, and Michael Farkas received an award for “Outstanding Solo Performance.” The wind ensemble won 2nd place with an “Excellent” rating as well. The trip was a success for many reasons. Not only did our bands give great performances, we also represented Mepham High School’s name positively. We sent a strong message that Mepham High School is full of talented and great students. Special thanks go to Mr. Neiderman for working so hard to make this trip possible and to Ms. Cecilia Larrea, Ms. Donna Morales (Mepham), and Mr. Ben Fisher (Grand Avenue) for acting as chaperones.

The Mepham High School Wrestling Team coached by Rich Anderson and Assistant Coach Mike Muscara and the Mepham High School Girls’ Basketball Team coached by James Mulvey received the New York State Scholar Athlete Award.

Dylan Levene, a Mepham High School 10th grader in Mr. Peter Steckle’s Marine Biology class and Ms. Jeannette Rosello’s Advanced Science Research class, has been chosen as a recipient of an Honorable Mention in the Senior Division of the Dupont Challenge 2006 Science Essay Awards Program. Out of thousands of entries that were received, there are only five winners and 30 honorable mentions awarded in each division. Winning this award is a significant accomplishment.

The Mepham Chamber Singers and Mixed Choir competed in the Fiesta-Val 2006 Music Competition in Orlando Florida. The Chamber Singers placed 1st in their division and received the highest rating of Superior. The Mixed Choir also placed 1st in its division and received a rating of Superior. This is the 8th straight year that the Chamber Singers have won their division.

Priyanka Mukerjea	Alexandra Schwartz	Erica Hylton	Farryl Last
PRIYANKA MUKERJEA Priyanka is a member of three Honor societies and is currently enrolled in three Advanced Placement courses. She participates in the Culture Club, SADD, A World of Difference, Fragments, (Mepham’s literary journal) and the Buccaneer (Mepham’s newspaper). She has volunteered in Mepham’s Peer Tutoring Program for the past four years. Outside of school, Priyanka has been active as an oncology research assistant at Mt. Sinai Medical Hospital Priyanka was recognized in her junior year in Who’s Who Among American High School Students. In addition to her academic and extra curricular activities, Priyanka has been a four-year member of the tennis team and a member of the badminton team for the past two years. Priyanka plans to attend NYU and major in biology. ALEXANDRA SCHWARTZ Alexandra has been a four-year member of Mepham High School’s newspaper and a member of the Spanish Honor Society. In her freshman and sophomore years, she participated on Scholarship Day to raise money for school scholarships. She is also very proud of her volunteer work with the “Buddy” mentoring program for incoming ninth grade students. In addition to her work in and out of high school, Alexandra received achievement awards in Mathematics B, Health, Advanced Power Reading and Spanish 4. Outside of school, Alexandra has volunteered at the Hebrew High. She plans to attend Buffalo State College and major in Education. ERICA HYLTON Erica is a member of the National Honor Society and the Spanish Honor Society. She is an AP Scholar and is proud of her participation in the Science Research program. Erica is involved in many clubs such as: Peer Tutoring, Big Brother/Big Sister, Athletes helping Athletes, Key Club and S.A.D.D. In addition to her academic work, Erica has been a member of the Cross Country, Winter Track, Spring Track and Running Camp. Erica also participates in fundraising activities and volunteers in the Bellmore-Merrick EMT classes. She is most proud of her involvement in the Scholarship Drive, the Booster Drive and the Walk to Defeat ALS. Erica plans to attend Tufts College and major in biology. FARRYL LAST Farryl is the Valedictorian for the class 2006. She has been a member of five honor societies and has been enrolled in numerous Advanced Placement courses. She also participates on the Site-Based Committee, Athletes Helping Athletes, S.A.D.D., Fragments (Mepham’s literary magazine), A World of Difference, Peer Tutoring and has been the assistant editor for the past four years of the Buccaneer (Mepham’s newspaper). Farryl is involved in the Authentic Science Research program and this year she was selected as the recipient of the New York State Scholarship for Academic Excellence. In her sophomore and junior years, she was the winner of numerous poetry awards and this year one of her essays was accepted for publication in Gentle Hope. She has been a four-year member of the tennis team and has been volunteering in her senior year at a gymnastics class supervising students with various handicaps. Farryl has participated in the Breast Cancer Walk, assisted at Taste of New Orleans fundraiser as well as volunteering at Camp ANCHOR for the past four years. Farryl plans to attend NYU and major in language.

Farryl Last, a Mepham High School senior, was awarded the New York Lottery 2006 Leaders of Tomorrow Scholarship. This scholarship is awarded to students who are involved in many areas of high school life including citizenship, community service participation, leadership skills and academics. Farryl will receive a $4,000 scholarship, paid annually in $1,000 increments to be applied toward the cost of attendance at an accredited New York college or university.

Catherine Marando, a Mepham High School tenth grader, earned Second Place in the annual Italian poetry recitation contest sponsored by the American Association of Teachers of Italian. The contest, which took place at Stonybrook University, was attended by more than 240 students, and the judging was extremely challenging. Catherine’s teacher is Ms. Rosa Manzo. Catherine’s poem is entitled “La Notte.” Shown from left to right: Catherine Marando and Ms. Rosa Manzo.

Jason Chaskin, a Mepham High School senior, has received a Certificate of Award from the American Psychological Association/Teachers of Psychology in Secondary Schools for Oustanding Research in Psychology in the category of Behavioral and Social Sciences.

The state-level judges for the 2006 Prudential Spirit Community Awards (This community honors outstanding community service by young Americans) awarded Bryan Schmerler, a senior at Mepham High School, with the President’s Volunteer Service Award. This award recognizes Americans of all ages who have volunteered significant amount of their time to serve their communities and their country. Bryan has worked with Student Government class officers each year and has been an active participant in the Athletes Helping Athletes program. He has participated in many lacrosse clinics, and in projects at a local church.

Back Row (Standing), Left to Right: Angela Potorski (coach), Allison Restivo, Jessica Reichert, Kerry Kilgallin, Brittany Francke, Amanda Colasuonno, Jackie Rizzo, Samantha Striano and Jennifer Zash (coach). Front Row, Left to Right: Jessica Rubinstein, Karalyn Schoepfer, Jessica Ruvolo and Lindsay Garet. At its April meeting, the Board of Education honored Mepham High School’s Kickline team. The hard work and enthusiasm of the team paid off, and the team took home trophies for 2nd place in High Kick, 1st place in Lyrical, and 1st place in Pom at this year’s Scholastic Kickline Competition at Nassau Community College. The girls were also awarded the Long Island Championship “Champion of Champions” awards for both their lyrical and their pom routines. The kickline team is led by captains Lindsay Garet, Nicole Klerer, Jessica Ruvolo and Katie Rouse. This was an incredibly unique and outstanding accomplishment for the girls as they carried home all five of their large trophies from the competition. The coaches are Angela Potorski and Jennifer Zash.

Mepham seniors and juniors engaged ninth and tenth grade students in celebrating Pi Day. Pi is the 16th of the Greek alphabet. In math it has come to symbolize the ratio of the circumference of a circle to its diameter (or 3.14). The Students turned the cafeteria into a Pi museum. Students measured circular items to see the relationship between the circumference and diameter. They worked on crossword puzzles using their knowledge of Pi, and they created poems about Pi. It was a valuable and exciting day for all.

Ben Spear, a Mepham High School senior, participated in the National Young Leaders Conference (NYLC), a week-long program offered to high school students who are nominated by their teachers for outstanding work and leadership skills. The conference brings students from all of the United States, Guam and Puerto Rico to Washington, D.C, where they gain insight into the workings of our nation¡¯s government. Ben participated in a Model Congress, and his group's Crime Bill passed overwhelmingly. During the executive simulation, which focused on a future incident in the Darfur region of Sudan, Ben was elected President and had to make the difficult and final decision whether or not to go to war. In addition to participating in these simulations, Ben also spent time visiting memorials and the Capitol. He visited the offices of his representative, Carolyn McCarthy and both Senators Schumer and Clinton. He met with their staff members, who offered information on the workings of their offices. According to Ben, "This was a once in a lifetime opportunity that I will never forget, and I hope others have the chance to experience."

Jenna Nalakowski Joanna Murphy Ryan Catterson Bryan Schmerler JENNA NALAKOWSKI Jenna is a member of the Key Club, through which she participates in many after school activities such as the Talent Show and the Battle of the Bands. In the fall, Jenna hopes to attend Nassau Community College and plans to major in Business. JOANNA MURPHY Joanna is a member of two honor societies, and she is enrolled in AP Psychology. She is proud of her participation in the Big Brother/Big Sister program, S.A.D.D., the Literary Circle, A World of Difference and S.A.D.D., of which she is President this year. Joanna has worked on the scholarship drive and participated in the Cancer Walk. She plays the piano during her free time, and after school she helps autistic children at Birch Elementary School. Joanna plans to attend a four-year college and major in speech pathology. RYAN CATTERSON Ryan has played baseball and football for three years and has been a member of the track team since his freshman year at Mepham. Ryan is also proud of his participation in the homework support program and in AP Government and Politics. In the fall, Ryan is considering attending Adelphi University for Pre-Law. BRYAN SCHMERLER Bryan has been an honor roll student since his freshman year at Mepham High School. He has worked with his class officers each year and has been an active participant in the Athletes Helping Athletes program. For the past three years, he has been a member of the winter track team. Bryan is considering a career in business, and he plans to attend a four-year college.

Stephanie Hochhauser, a Mepham High School student, will be among approximately 400 outstanding high school students from across the United States to take part in a unique leadership development conference in our nation’s capital. During the six-day program, the National Young Leaders Conference (NYLC) will provide participants with the opportunity to interact with a variety of personnel who operate within the three branches of government, the news media, and the international community. To complement the schedule of special meetings and briefings, Stephanie will participate in a number of leadership skill-building activities and simulations. In one role-play activity titled If I Were President, students act as the president and cabinet members responding to an international crisis. Students also participate in Testing the Constitution, in which they examine actual Supreme Court cases. The Conference culminates with the Model Congress, in which scholars assume the roles of U.S. Representatives, and debate, amend and vote on proposed mock legislation. Last summer, as a junior, Stephanie was among only 350 students in the nation enrolled in the National Youth Leadership Forum on Medicine in Atlanta, Georgia. She joined 350 other high school students from around the country who demonstrated academic excellence, leadership potential and an interest in a career in medicine.

Shown from left to right: Michael Dolinger Daniel Werbeck Rebecca Stern Melissa Hylton REBECCA STERN During the past four years, Rebecca has been involved in a variety of activities both in and out of Mepham High School. Rebecca has been a member of the National and the Spanish Honor societies and is currently enrolled in three Advanced Placement courses. Rebecca is proud of her participation in the science club, SADD and the Peer Tutor program. She has written articles for the school newspaper and helped raise money for the sophomore, junior and senior classes. Rebecca is a four-year member of the varsity softball team. Outside of school, Rebecca has worked and participated in the Birch Shadow Program and the North Bellmore/North Merrick Little League. For the last two years, she has been a pitcher, first baseman and outfielder on the Queens Nassau Comets Travel Softball. Rebecca hopes to attend Molloy College and become an elementary school teacher. DANIEL WERBECK Daniel is an active member of the band and is the current editor- in-chief of Mepham’s school newspaper. This semester Daniel is doing an internship as a teacher’s assistant in an earth science class with Mr. Steckle. He plans to attend a four-year college and hopes to become a science teacher. He has raised money and walked for the prevention and awareness of breast cancer since his freshman year at Mepham. Every summer and fall, Daniel plays for the South Shore Bulldogs baseball team traveling to Queens, Nassau and Suffolk. He has been a member of the Junior Varsity and Varsity Baseball teams, and has worked in the federation of amateur baseball leagues as an umpire. MELISSA HYLTON Melissa is a member of the Spanish, Art and National Honor societies, and she is currently enrolled in five Advanced Placement courses. Melissa participates in the Key Club, Big Brother/Big Sister mentoring program and Athletes-Helping-Athletes. She has volunteered in Mepham’s Peer Tutoring Program for the past four years. Melissa has been a member of every track team at Mepham. It doesn’t matter how cold it is outside, she is always out there with a big smile running and training with her teammates. Outside of school, Melissa has been active in the District Scholarship Drive, Community Charity Walk and the Long Island Marathon since her freshman year. Melissa plans to attend a four year college and major in Sports Management or Sports Medicine. MICHAEL DOLINGER Michael Dolinger is a scholar, an athlete, and a leader. Michael is currently enrolled in five Advanced Placement courses. He is an active member of S.A.D.D., the Peer Tutoring program, and Fragments, Mepham’s school literary magazine. He has been a member of the tennis team since his freshman year. He studied Jiu Jitsu for eight years and earned his Black Belt in ninth grade. Michael has done everything from publishing a scientific research paper in the Journal of Herpetology, to receiving recognition by LI Language teachers on the National Spanish Exam. He has received numerous awards and honors while maintaining membership in four honor societies. Michael was a finalist in the Adelphi Science Competition and received a first place award in the Long Island Science and Engineering Fair. In his freshman year, he was a Siemen’s Westinghouse Competition applicant and in tenth grade he received a Darkin Memorial Award for Excellence in Chemistry. In the future, Michael will attend a four-year college majoring in Pre-Med.

At its March meeting, the Board of Education honored the W.C. Mepham Girls’ Cross Country team. The team finished its season 2nd in the Nassau County overall race and won its 4th consecutive County A title. The team also made a 5th-place finish at the New York State Championships held at Queensbury High School. In addition, the girls won the Conference 3 Championship and the Nassau Coaches Invitational. The team finished 2nd in the prestigious St. Anthony’s Invite and third in the nationally-known Manhattan College Invite. Shown front row left to right: Melissa Hylton, Erica Hylton, Samantha Beim and Samantha Cosenza. Back Row from left to right: Courtney Kelly, Amy Kilgallin, Dawn Leavy, Aileen Monks and Coach Dave Frazer. Missing from photo: Kaitlyn O’Brien, Allison Breivogal, Alison Paez, Stephanie Becker, Jeanette Lee, Laura DeFrancisci, Katherine Perillo and Coach Robert Ostroff.

Shown from left to right are Leah Haimson and Sean Gelbwaks holding a Bronze award from the March of Dimes. Leah and Sean belong to a national youth leadership group, Chain Reaction, which is run by the March of Dimes. Members of this group educate fellow students regarding the March of Dimes mission, and they raise funds for its various projects. With the help of the Physical Education department, these very involved volunteers coordinated a badminton tournament and auction that raised almost $2000 for the March of Dimes. The students will organize another campaign this winter. The mission of the March of Dimes is to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, prematurity and infant mortality. Funds raised from events like this support programs of community services, research, advocacy and education.

Amanda Kelly, a Mepham High School senior, was awarded first place in an essay contest sponsored by Community Presbyterian Church in Merrick. The essay topic was Peace. There were more than 130 entrants for this annual competition. The students were awarded with a plaque and a Treasury Bond.

From left to right: Brandon Horishny, Katie Rivara, Stefanie Hochhauser, and Peter Rees. STEFANIE HOCHHAUSER Stephanie is a member of the homework support team and has participated in the Key Club, the Big Brother/Big Sister mentoring program and S.A.D.D. She has also served as a peer tutor for the past four years. Stefanie was a member of the JV softball team and has been a member of the Varsity tennis team for the past two years. This year she is the captain of the Varsity tennis team. Outside of school, Stefanie was selected to participate in the summer 2005 National Leadership Council Forum on Medicine. She was also part of the Congressional Youth Leadership Program in January 2006. She has participated in the Breast Cancer walk since she was in fifth grade. Stefanie plans to attend medical school after graduating from a four-year college. She would like to specialize in pediatric oncology. BRANDON HORISHNY Brandon has participated in several drama productions and has been a member of the stage crew in other productions. He is an active member of the A.V. squad and greets students and staff each morning as one of Mepham’s fine P.A. announcers. Brandon plans to attend a four-year college and would like to major in film studies and film production. KATIE RIVARA Katie Rivara has an intense interest in the arts. She has taken elective courses in creative writing, journalism and media studies. She has a passion for dance activities in and outside of school. Katie is a member of Fragments, Mepham’s literary magazine and a member of The Buccaneer, Mepham’s school newspaper. Katie has been inducted into the National Honor Society and the Italian Honor Society. She has also volunteered as a teacher’s aide for several ballet classes. In the future, she plans to attend a four year college and become an English teacher. PETER REES Peter is a member of Athletes-Helping-Athletes and has been on winter track for the past three years. A four-year member on the Varsity lacrosse team, Peter has been an all-conference player and captain for the past two years. Peter also volunteers at the Bellmore-Merrick Fire Department and is a PAL lacrosse instructor. Peter plans to major in engineering at Stony Brook University. He plans on being an environmental engineer after college.

At its January meeting, the Bellmore-Merrick Board of Education honored the Mepham Junior Varsity’s Cheerleading Team in recognition of the team’s first place finish in the Nassau County Cheerleading Competition.  Their coach is Nicole Kyriacou.  Team members are: Laura Arcamone, Codi Bifone, Brittany Dubovick, Ashley Falco, Sasha Rae Fine, Ariel Frenchman, Brittany Gallagher, Shaina Golub, Lesley Kaldor, Ashleigh Longo, Elizabeth Moore, Shawna Motley, Erin O’Byrne, Michelle Pelant, Kathryn Ruvolo, Rae Ann Scalisi, Valerie Shapiro, Chelsea Stahurski, Meredith Warshaw, Ashley Yunker and Añia La Guerre.

From left to right: Lisa Di Clemente, Amanda Kelly, Brandon Mac Lellan and Dan Kinney LISA DI CLEMENTE Lisa is particularly proud of her work in the SADD program, which she has actively supported since her sophomore year. Lisa has also volunteered as a tutor to other students. Lisa is a member of the National Honor Society and is enrolled in two Advancement Placement courses. She is the current vice president of the Italian honor society, and she participated in many essay and poetry contests in Italian. She plans to attend Hofstra University and major in Elementary Education. AMANDA KELLY Amanda is a member of three honor societies, and she is currently enrolled in three Advanced Placement courses. Amanda participates in the Key Club, Big Brother/Big Sister mentoring program, Fragments (the literary journal) and the Literary Circle. She has volunteered in Mepham’s Peer Tutoring Program for the past four years. Outside of school, Amanda has been active in Girl Scouts, Children’s Church and as a nursery school helper. Amanda writes poetry and was recently published in “Young Poets of America.” She plans to attend Molloy College to major in Elementary Education. BRANDON MAC LELLAN Brandon’s schedule this year includes three Advanced Placement courses. He is a member of two honor societies. Brandon is an active member of Student Government and Fragments (the school literary magazine). Brandon has been a member of the Peer Tutoring program and SADD since his freshman year at Mepham. Outside of school Brandon participated in The Breast Cancer Walk, volunteered as a tutor in the community and in the “No Zone Basketball” program. He plans to attend Hofstra University and major in Accounting. DAN KINNEY Dan is a member of the Science Honor Society, and he is the current vice-president of the National Honor Society. Dan has been a member of the peer tutoring program and has been a member of the JV baseball team, cross country, winter track and varsity baseball. This year, Dan is enrolled in four Advanced Placement courses. Outside of school, he volunteered at legislator Denenberg’s Office. He plans to attend Syracuse University and obtain a degree in Business.

Shown are two Mepham High School students Anthony Brienza left and Kelly Butterworth right who have been selected as semi-finalists in the National Council of English Essay Contest. They are shown here with Ms. Claire Paccione, English department chairperson.

Mepham High School Athletes are Sprig Gardner Champs, 2005. Stephen Gunther (Mepham Alumni Outstanding Wrestler Award) and Frank Vultaggio (award for most pins in least amount of time) From left to right: Coach Richard Anderson, Stephen Gunther (1st 125 lbs.), Frank Vultaggio (1st 135 lbs.), Coach Mike Muscara, Coach Sean Arresto

From left to right: Coach James Koester (Conference AA3 Coach of the Year), Glenn Wallace (All-County), Chris Buttler (All-Conference), Michael Labiak (All-Conference) and Coach Oren Iosepovici (JV Coach). The Mepham High School Boys Varsity Soccer Team had a fantastic season with a record of 10 wins, 3 losses and 2 ties. Last season the team was competitive but finished with a 3-10-3 record overall. This year Glenn Wallace led the conference in goals scored with 13. He also added 3 assists and was voted to the All-County Team. Chris Buttler (8 Goals, 5 Assists), and Mike Labiak (4 Goals, 7 Assists) received All-Conference honors. Coach James Koester was named Conference AA3 Coach of the Year. Glenn Wallace, Mike Labiak, and Chris Buttler finished their high school soccer careers as winners on and off the field as members of the New York State Scholar-Athlete Team Award.

MEPHAM HIGH SCHOOL DECEMBER SENIORS OF THE MONTH DECEMBER 9, 2005

From left to right: Robert Peters, Jeanette Lee, Marshall Wegh and Jessica Ruvolo

ROBERT PETERS As a junior, Rob took AP Physics and, as a senior, he is taking six Advanced Placement courses. By the time he graduates, he will complete every AP science course offered at Mepham (Chemistry, Physics B and C, Biology, and Psychology.) In addition, Rob has taken part in the Authentic Science Research program. He is a member of the National Science and English Honor societies. He is also a member of Mepham’s track and field squad.

JEANETTE LEE Jeanette is a member of three honor societies, and she has been on the honor roll since her freshman year at Mepham. In addition to her academic work, Jeanette has been a member of the Cross Country and Winter Track teams. In her freshman and sophomore years Jeanette was the class secretary. Jeanette has been part of the Peer Tutoring Program, A World of Difference, District Site-Based Committee, The Big Brother/Big Sister Program, Student Government and NYSSMA since her freshman year. Jeanette volunteers for the Bellmore-Merrick Volunteer Ambulance Company. Of all of her accomplishments and activities, she is most proud of her involvement in this organization since she directly helps others and saves lives.

MARSHALL WEGH Last year, Marshall received a perfect score on the very demanding Math B Regents exam. He has also been enrolled in advanced science courses since the eighth grade. When he graduates, he will have completed two years of both chemistry and physics, which he wishes to pursue in college. He is an avid reader and he is often spotted with an open book in his hand. Marshall is a member of the Science Club and a volunteer in the Homework Support Program. Marshall has received several academic awards in math, A.P. chemistry, U.S. history, physics, and English.

JESSICA RUVOLO Jessica is a member of two honor societies, SADD, Key Club and A World Of Difference. She is an enthusiastic member of the Big Brother/Big Sister program and part of the stage crew. As captain of the kickline squad, Jessica has proven to be a steady leader and role model. She has contributed to numerous activities in the community, including the Cancer Walk, the Christa House Walk and the Lupus Walk. Jessica works at the YMCA as a camp counselor.

Italian Honor Society NOVEMBER 23, 2005

Shown is the Mepham High School Chapter of the National Italian Honor Society, with their advisor Ms. Rosa Manzo. The chapter recently held its 4th annual Italian Heritage Night. The night was a success, with a packed house of students, teachers and community members. Participants started off with a buffet-style meal with many different Italian dishes. Guests were entertained with Italian poetry, music and a comedic skit about a man whose wife serves him the same thing for every meal. A game of Tombola, the Italian version of Bingo, was the grand finale in which guests competed for prizes donated by local establishments. The Mepham students wish to thank the following restaurants and businesses for their generosity and kindness: Tommy’s Village Pizzeria (Bellmore), Ciao Italia (Hewlett), Luigi’s (Bellmore), Matteo’s (Bellmore), Fabio’s (Bellmore), Capri Bakery (Bellmore), Ward’s Deli (Merrick), Olive Garden (Massapequa), Iavarone Brothers (Wantagh), International Delight Café (Bellmore), Avanti Deli Café, (Baldwin) and Piccolo’s (Bellmore).

NATIONAL MERIT COMMENDED STUDENTS NOVEMBER 18, 2005

The following seniors were named “Commended Students” in the National Merit Scholarship Competition. Farryl Last Robert Gambo BOARD HONORS SIEMENS WESTINGHOUSE FINALIST AND DISTINGUISHED MUSICIANS NOVEMBER 4, 2005 From left to right: Dr. Henry Kiernan (Superintendent), Adam R. Solomon, Shannen Hofheimer, Sara Stanganelli, Michael Fargas and Ms. Andrea Messinger At its November meeting the Bellmore-Merrick Board of Education honored our district’s Siemens Westinghouse Finalist and five distinguished musicians. MICHAEL FARKAS - ALL-COUNTY MUSICIAN Michael Farkas, a Mepham High School senior, has been selected to play lead trumpet in the All-County Jazz Band. This is a rare distinction, since students in the jazz band are typically among the county's very best musicians. Michael plays lead trumpet in Mepham High School's Jazz Ensemble, and he plays lead trumpet at ensembles for the school's annual Senior Citizen Prom. Outside of school, he has played in other jazz groups, and he studies music privately. MEPHAM HIGH SCHOOL NOVEMBER SENIORS OF THE MONTH NOVEMBER 4, 2005 From Left to Right: Josh Seidman, Katherine Rouse, Dawn Leavy, Patrick Negri. JOSH SEIDMAN Josh is enrolled in five Advanced Placement courses. He is an active member of SADD, the peer tutoring program, and a proud member of Fragments, Mepham’s literary magazine. He has been a member of the basketball team since his freshman year. He is currently the co-captain of Mepham’s varsity basketball team. Josh has done everything from publishing poetry and entering science fairs to serving as co-president of the English Honor Society, and he is a member in four honor societies. He prepared his science research project for entry to the Intel Science Talent Search and the Siemen’s Westinghouse Competition. This year Josh was nominated to receive the Wendy’s High School Heisman Award. Josh will attend a four-year college and will study Physics. KATHARINE ROUSE Katharine Rouse is ranked third in this year’s class, achieving superior grades in Bellmore-Merrick’s most challenging curriculum. She is a member of five honor societies, and she is proud of her participation in the Big Brother/Big Sister program, Key Club, Fragments, Peer tutoring and A World of Difference. Katie is also involved in the Authentic Science Research program. In her sophomore and junior year, she was enrolled in the Summer Science Research Program at Hofstra University. This past summer, she was selected to receive the Young Women of Achievement Award. This year, Katie is taking part in the Intel Science Talent Search Competition. Katie has been a four-year member of the varsity kickline and has been taking dance lessons since the age of three. She has studied different styles of dance and has performed at various local and national competitions. Katie plans to attend a four-year college and major in forensic psychology. DAWN LEAVY Ranked number four in a class of 304, Dawn is a member of three honor societies. She is an AP Scholar with Distinction and a participant as a freshman and sophomore in the National Spanish Exam. Dawn was selected to perform in All County Band in her freshman year. She was part of the Mepham Pit Band in her sophomore year, and now she is first chair flute in the Mepham Wind Ensemble. Dawn is a member of SADD, the Big Brother / Big Sister program and Athletes-Helping-Athletes. Throughout her four years of high school, Dawn has run in all three seasons of track, and she was recognized as an All-County runner for each. She also was selected for All-Conference for indoor track and All-State for cross country. This year Dawn is a finalist – one of only ten women in New York State - in the Wendy’s High School Heisman Awards Program. Dawn plays the flute for her church. She also has been a camp counselor and has written a grant proposal for Have a Heart-Children’s Cancer Society. In addition to her academics and athletics, Dawn works as a music tutor and a babysitter. Dawn plans to attend a four-year college, majoring in mathematics and business. PATRICK NEGRI Patrick is a member of the National Honor Society. He is also proud of his participation in the Big Brother/Big Sister program. Throughout his four years at Mepham, Patrick has been a member of the peer tutoring program and Mepham’s SADD chapter. This year, he is taking five Advanced Placement courses and playing on the varsity baseball team. Outside of school, Patrick is an active member of the North – Bellmore Merrick Little League, both as a player and as a volunteer. In the future he plans to attend a four-year college.

HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS NOMINATED FOR 2005-2006 WENDY’S HIGH SCHOOL HEISMAN AWARD OCTOBER 28, 2005

Maegan Krifchin and Brett Rieders, at Kennedy High School, Dawn Leavy and Josh Seidman, at Mepham High School and Jarryd Ruff and Michelle Holleran, Calhoun High School have been nominated for the annual Wendy’s High School Heisman Award. The national awards program created by Wendy’s and the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP), recognizes outstanding athletic achievement, community service and athletic accomplishments of high school men and women. Dawn Leavy Josh Seidman

MEPHAM HIGH SCHOOL OCTOBER SENIORS OF THE MONTH OCTOBER 21, 2005

DANIEL SCOCA Daniel is a member of two honor societies, and he works on the staff of the school newspaper. He participated in the Scholarship Drive for the past four years, and he volunteers at the Meadows Senior Center. Daniel has been a member of the JV Baseball team and a travel baseball team. He also participates in weight training. In the future, Daniel plans to attend a four-year college and obtain a master’s degree in International Business

LISA CASSESE Since freshman year, Lisa has been a member of a variety of clubs. She participates in Mepham’s Chamber Choir, and she is an active staff member of the school newspaper. Lisa has volunteered to help other students through the peer tutoring program, and she is very proud of her work in the Big Brother/ Big Sister Program. She has been a cheerleader for four years. Next year, she hopes to attend New York University and major in dramatic art.

ANNIE HUDA Annie is a four-year member of Fragments, Mepham’s literary magazine, a member of the Culture Club, A World of Difference and three honor societies. She has volunteered for food drives and health fairs at her local mosque, and she has fund-raised for lupus and diabetes research. In the future, she plans to attend St. John’s University to study pharmacology.

MARK RUESCHER Mark is a member of two honor societies and has been stage-crew manager for five drama productions. He is also a member of SADD, a member of the Chamber Choir and a representative on the District Wellness Council. In the future, Mark plans to attend SUNY Farmingdale where he plans to study Ornamental Horticulture. Mark plans to build a landscape design/construction company.

MEPHAM HIGH SCHOOL SEPTEMBER SENIORS OF THE MONTH SEPTEMBER 23, 2005

STEPHEN GUNTHER Stephen has been part of the Varsity Wrestling Team for the past three years. He has served as team captain and was selected as an All-County player last year. He has been the president of his class for the past four years and he is an active member of the Big Brother/Big Sister program. He is also involved in Fragments, the school’s literary magazine. Last year, in addition to his academic and athletic activities, he was involved in the “Athletes-Helping-Athletes” program. For the future, he plans to continue wrestling and to attend a four-year college with a major in political science. IBBAD YOUSUF Ibbad is a member of four honor societies, and he is the senior class secretary. He is an active member of S.A.D.D., Fragments and A World of Difference. Ibbad is a member of the varsity football team and a two-year member of the varsity volleyball team. Outside of school, Ibbad is especially proud of his volunteer work with the annual Breast Cancer and Lupus Walks. He also owns a computer company called “The Comp Doc,” and in the future he plans to become a doctor. ALEXANDRA TAYLOR Alexandra is a member of three honor societies. She participates in the Key Club, Big Brother/Big Sister mentoring program and Fragments. She is treasurer of the senior class, and she has volunteered in the Peer Tutoring Program for the past four years. She has played on the JV Volleyball team and now is a member of the Varsity Volleyball team. Outside of school, Alexandra has been active as a member of her Jewish Youth Group, and she has worked as a tutor. Alexandra plans to attend a four-year college, Dental School and Orthodontics School. ELENA CUCCI Elena has been involved in a variety of activities both in and out of Mepham High School. She is Vice President of the senior class, a member of four honor societies and a representative on the District Wellness Council. She is part of the Big Brother/Big Sister program, and a participant in Mepham’s Walk for Charity and The Lupus Walk. Elena is also involved in the Authentic Science Research program and has documented ninety hours of science research in the summer of 2004 and 2005. JASON CHASKIN In addition to a rigorous academic schedule that includes four Advanced Placement courses, Jason is a member of four honor societies and he plans to enter the Intel Science Competition this fall. He has been involved in Spring Musicals for the past two years and has been an active participant in the Key Club. Jason is currently secretary of the senior class. Jason has volunteered to work at his temple as a tutor and has been a camp counselor for the past three years. CHSD STUDENTS RECEIVE YOUNG WOMAN OF ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS SEPTEMBER 23, 2005 From left to right: Katharine Rouse and Elena Cucci. Four CHSD students from Mepham High School and Calhoun High School were selected to receive Young woman of Achievement Awards from the Long Island National Organization for Women (NOW). The students were nominated and then selected because of their achievements in academics, leadership and community service. ELENA CUCCI Elena has been involved in a variety of activities both in and out of Mepham High School. The Vice President for the senior class, Elena has been a member of four honor societies and the District Wellness Committee. She is also proud of her participation in the Big Brother/Big Sister program. During the past four years, she has been a member of the varsity volleyball team. Elena has volunteered her time and talents to many worthwhile activities. She has participated in Mepham's Walk for Charity and The involved in the Authentic Science Research program and has documented ninety hours of science research in the summers of 2004 and 2005. She has been recognized as "Outstanding Junior Student" by S.A.D.D. last year and has received an award for excellence in AP chemistry, physics and mathematics. Elena hopes to attend New York University to study Pre-Law. KATHARINE ROUSE At the end of her freshman year, Kate earned an overall weighted average of 99.667, placing her among the top in her grade. Her success has not diminished. A participant in Bellmore-Merrick's Authentic Science Research Program, she will complete three years of intensive scientific research and work with a mentor during summers. In addition to her work in the classroom, Kate has maintained an active life beyond it. Kate has spent countless hours after school helping the kickline team perfect its routine. In addition, she is a member of a local dance troupe and has competed at regional and national events. Highly respected by her teachers, Kate will undoubtedly be a strong candidate for induction to Mepham's chapter of the National Honor Society. MEPHAM JAZZ ENSEMBLE MAY 13, 2005 From left to right: Michael Farkas and Mr. Brian Neiderman. The W. C. Mepham Jazz Ensemble was one of eight groups that participated in the 16th Annual Division Avenue High School Invitational Jazz Festival. Eleventh grader, Michael Farkas, who plays lead trumpet, received an outstanding soloist award. Mr. Brian Neiderman is the director of this talented group of students. HEMPSTEAD GOVERNMENT DAY MAY 13, 2005 From left to right: Mr. Henry Dircks and Stephen Gunther Stephen Gunther, a junior at W. C. Mepham High School, was nominated by his teacher, Mr. Henry Dircks, as Mepham's representative at the Town of Hempstead's Students in Government Day. Stephen spent the day touring various town facilities and meeting with Supervisor Kate Murray in order to see the inner workings of our local government. MEPHAM SCIENTISTS HONORED APRIL 1, 2005 Pictured from left to right: Bharat Kuncham, Ms. Lorrilee Geraci (science teacher), Lindsay Garet and Alison Paez. Three W. C. Mepham High School students won honorable mention for their project, "Paradoxical Viruses," which was entered in the Toshiba/NSTA ExploraVision Awards competition. This competition asks for projects that demonstrate innovative thinking about how science and technology can change the future. MEPHAM STUDENTS PLAY "BADMINTON FOR BABIES" MARCH 4, 2005 Back row from left to right: Erica Hylton, Toni Figliola, Laurence Carolan and Kyle Donohue. Front row from left to right: Andrea Socoloschi, Allison Louie, Ann Mudgett, Cynthia Brandt, Ms. Samantha Foronjy and Mike Siwick W. C. Mepham High School organized a "Badminton Tournament for Babies," a charity event to benefit the March of Dimes. Two students, Sean Gelbwaks and Leah Haimson, advertised and organized the tournament with the help of physical education teachers, Mr. James Koester, Ms. Dorothy Marino, Ms. Samantha Foronjy and Mr. Bret Malone. More than 120 students paid to participate and the students raised $500. The winner of the men's tournament won tickets to a Knicks game, and the winner of the girls' event won tickets to a Broadway show. MEPHAM TRACK ATHLETES SHINE MARCH 11, 2005 From left to right: Coach Jim Murrin, David Zellmann, Russell Brenner and Coach Dave Frazer At the state qualifying track meet held at Suffolk Community College, W. C. Mepham High School senior, Russell Brenner threw a personal best of 46ft. 7 in. in the shotput. Russell represented Nassau County in the state track meet at Syracuse University. Junior, David Zellmann was second in the Friendship Games, second in the Conference and fourth in the qualifying tournament. Jim Murrin and Dave Frazer are the coaches. MEPHAM WRESTLERS PLACE IN NASSAU TOURNAMENT/B> MARCH 11, 2005 At the Nassau County wrestling tournament, the W. C. Mepham students shown here placed in the tournament in their divisions. From left to right: Coach Mike Muscara, Coach Sean Arresto, Stephen Gunther (4th place), Steven Gurien (3rd place), Jonathan Gallogly (5th place), Santo Getz (Nassau County Champion), Adam Starr (5th place) and Coach John Hamilton. CHSD GIRLS' BOWLING TEAM WINS COUNTY CHAMPIONSHIP FEBRUARY 11, 2005 From left to right standing: Coach Lori Smith, Elisa Ballestas (Mepham), Dianna Molenko (Mepham), Allison Castellano (Calhoun) and Sarah Lipman (Mepham). From left to right sitting: Jennifer Dorler (Mepham) and Cristina Reale (Calhoun). The Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District's girls' bowling team had an amazing season. The team went undefeated during the season and came in first place in the conference for the 2nd year in a row. The girls also won the Holiday Tournament for the 3rd year in a row. They brought home the Nassau County title at the County Tournament and will travel to Latham, New York to compete in the New York State Tournament. All-county bowlers (155 average or higher) were Allison Castellano, Jennifer Dorler, Dianna Molenko and Cristina Reale. All-league bowlers (145 average or higher) were Elisa Ballestas and Sarah Lipman. MEPHAM SPANISH HONOR SOCIETY SPREAD HOLIDAY CHEER JANUARY 7, 2005 Students from the W. C. Mepham Spanish Honor Society collected toys for their annual fundraising project. Students were generous with their contributions as they helped spread holiday cheer and joy to the less fortunate. Donations were made to the Lighthouse Missions in Patchogue. From left to right: Jazmin Fuller, Joseph Boyle, Ms. Dona Morales, Spanish teacher and club moderator. MEPHAM'S ART HONOR SOCIETY AND SERVICE CLUB HELP NEEDY FAMILIES OCTOBER 22, 2004, 2004 More than 40 members of the Art Honor Society and Art Service Club painted pumpkins to be sold to staff members and friends. The proceeds will go toward preparing holiday baskets for needy families in the community. From left to right: Jessica Bruni, Ms. Roseann Soltys, secretary, Ms. Joan Hain, art teacher and club moderator, Toni Figliola, Vicky Figliola, C. J. Preattle, and Julia Weiss MEPHAM'S A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE SUPPORTS TOLERANCE June 20, 2003 By Allison Speicher Left to right: Allison Speicher, Jacquelyn Tomo, Laura Araujo and Stacy-Anne Scarlett More than one hundred of our friends, family and neighbors turned out to support what Mepham High School's chapter of A World of Difference is proud to call its biggest fundraising success yet. The group raised almost $500 to purchase tolerance-related and multi-cultural literature for the six elementary schools in the community. We have already kicked off this book donation by visiting one of the neighborhood schools and performing our own rendition of Dr. Seuss' The Sneetches, explaining the tolerance message behind the plot, and donating this book to the school library. Words are not sufficient to describe the tremendous feelings of joy we felt as we watched our friends, neighbors and classmates form a buffet line fit to rival any at the mall during the holiday season. We reached a whole new group this year, as more of our guests brought their families and friends along with them. The overall response from the community was tremendous and we truly cannot thank our local businesses enough for their continued support. The wide variety of donated and purchased foods easily took our taste buds on a world tour, and there was plenty for everyone to come back for seconds! Because of the tremendous support from the restaurants of the area, we were able to give away seven gift certificates to continue to spread the appreciation of multi-cultural foods and flavors throughout our community. Perhaps our greatest success with this year's dinner was how much we managed to improve on last year's success. This year, custom-made centerpieces and brightly colored balloons graced each table. Inspirational tolerance quotes and flags from around the world transformed our cafeteria into an international café. The club members brought in food from their own nation of origin. A welcome banner, hand-painted by one of our dedicated members, greeted guests in languages from around the world. We expanded this year's fare to include not only internationally- themed main courses, but also international desserts. While offering our guests so much more, we still managed to keep the ticket price down so that everyone could afford to enjoy our event. Perhaps the greatest testimony to A World of Difference's ability to host such a memorable event is that so many of our guests returned from last year. We hope this trend will grow in years to come! We truly could not have wished for the Second Annual Dinner for Tolerance to have turned out any better. The smiling faces sharing good food and good friendship serve as a testament to the power of diversity that unite us rather than divide us. The power of A World of Difference is slowly changing Mepham High School into a more accepting and inviting school community - one forkful at a time! MEPHAM DEDICATES MEMORIAL PEACE GARDEN October 11, 2002 Mepham High School Principal John Didden presided over the dedication of a "Memorial Peace Garden" at Mepham High School. The garden was donated through the generosity of the Mepham PTA and the Mepham Alumni Association. In attendance at the dedication were PTA presidents Diane Hochhauser and Anne Schulman and Mepham Alumni Association Board Members Jerry and Clare Worthing. In addressing the student body at the dedication, Mr. Didden asked students "to remember those who are gone and all of our heroes, but also let all that the garden symbolizes ... its life, its beauty, its diversity, its peacefullness ... refresh and strengthen your spirit and inspire you to strive to always spread hope, acceptance, and peace wherever you go." MEPHAM'S STUDENT GOVERNMENT STRIVES TO STOP BULLYING June 28, 2002 By Allison Goodman and Serena Klos Bullying and peer pressure have become an escalating factor in both elementary school and high school. Many youngsters do not know how to deal with such situations, so the Mepham Student Government has decided to step in and teach fifth grade students how to deal with and avoid bullying. This year, students have gone to the Birch and Chatterton elementary schools and worked with all eight fifth-grade classes. With each class, they performed skits, held discussions, and played class distinction games to guide them in how to solve classroom as well as home problems dealing with bullying. They made sure to inform the students on the effects of bullying and how to stop this negative behavior from occurring. The Student Government hopes that their efforts will be effective and will benefit the students for years to come. Next year, Mepham's Student Government has planned to visit as many as six additional schools throughout the Bellmore and Merrick school districts to continue their efforts in bully prevention. Standing (left to right): Rachel Gursky, Danielle Simms, Lauren Pettenon, Jessica Belsham, Mr. Rich Cuchel (Student Government Advisor), Daniela Molina, Nicole Kleinert, and Rachel Epstein. Sitting (left to right): Heather Fuller, Bridget Oporto, Lisa Klein, Rachel Eisenburg, and Andrew Kollar. MEPHAM ALUMNI ASSOCIATION GIVES PIANO May 17, 2002 Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District's Board of Education President Mr. Louis Kruh (right) accepts a donation from Mr. Frank Setteducati, President of the Mepham High School Alumni Association. Mr. Setteducati was instrumental in the fund raising of $18,500 for a concert grand piano for Mepham High School. NEW CLUB AT MEPHAM HIGH SCHOOL February 8, 2002 Standing (left to right): John Marzigliano, Chris Roach, Valerie Esposito, Mr. Bill Murphy, Frank Cinturati, Tyler Newman, and Rob Marinaro. Seated (left to right): Joe Greensmith, Joe Moskie, Jeff Leng, Matt Falbo, Jamie Lee, Zach Lupu, Colleen Oakes and Joe Chirco. The International Crisis Simulation Club, organized by social studies teacher Bill Murphy, is designed to give students insight into the inner workings of international politics and crisis management. Students assume the role of one of three major military powers in the Pacific preceding World War II. Each group is divided into three branches (diplomacy, military, and economy) and attempts to achieve victory through solving the economic, political, military, and diplomatic problems many nations face on a regular basis. Group members must learn to work together for the shared goal of both victory and peace. The ICS Club meets once a week when students are updated on the moves from the previous week through a 3-D interactive map, the current economic conditions and future production possibilities. The students then choose to make or break alliances, decide where and how to use the military, and how to spend the economic resources that are available. MEPHAM CULTURE CLUB TEACHES TOLERANCE June 19, 1998 A group of about 20 Mepham students who have been promoting interpersonal understanding and acceptance of diversity among the Mepham community this spring extended their efforts to include the elementary students in every school in North Bellmore, the future students of Mepham High School. They are the members of Mepham's Culture Club, and they have been active for three years, organizing Human Awareness Days and ethnic festivals and recognizing holidays from different cultures. But this year, the group decided to reach out to younger students. The students wrote and performed skits for the elementary school children, showing the negative behaviors some people display towards those who are different. Then they discussed the right way to behave, and they reviewed "The Ten Ways to Tolerance," some general rules for getting along with others: 1. Talk to people you don't get along with. 2. Don't think your opinion is always better. 3. Accept apologies. 4. Apologize to each other. 5. Don't "Get Back" at people. 6. Don't judge people by their beliefs. 7. Think before acting or speaking. 8. Get to know people before judging them. 9. Respect other people's opinions. 10. Think about people's feelings. The group made an impact, as thank-yous from students and teachers showed. The club's advisor, Mrs. Maria Toulas, said, "The students worked hard on this and I am really proud of them." Mepham's Principal, Mr. John Didden, said, " Although it has only been in existence for three years, the Culture Club has made a significant impact on the members of the Mepham school community and the larger community of North Bellmore. Recognizing that we live in an increasingly multicultural world, the club has created activities which heighten the awareness, appreciation and sensitivity of Mepham students to the beauty and uniqueness of each of the members of our school community. I am extremely proud of their efforts and accomplishments." The members of Mepham's Culture Club are: Greg Fox, Alan Bindler, Jigisha Bhagat, Rochelle Lee, Loretta Chao, Brigid Collins, Michael Collins, Kathy Falbo, Bryan Haas, Sheba Huda, Jyoti Jain, Sana Khan, Laju Obasaju, Mayowa Obasaju, Gaslin Osias, Karen Straker, Connie Sun, Nadia Syed, Siddhi Vaishnav, P.J. Viola, Megha Patel, Anita Singh, Julio Rievas, Josh Schwed and Ethan Beckett.

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