30th Annual Stanner Golf Classic – 2 Weeks Away!
- When: Monday, May 2nd, 2016
- Where: North Hills Country Club & Plandome Country Club
- Contact: Matt Rizzotti ’04 | (718) 943-3186 | mrizzotti@molloyhs.org
- More Details: www.molloyhs.org/golf
- REGISTRATION NOW CLOSED
by Matt Rizzotti ‘04
The 30th Annual Jim Kinnier Stanner Golf Classic is just two weeks away, and while we have many golfers signed up to play, there is still much work to be done. I would like to thank everyone who has registered so far, and I encourage those still considering joining us at the outing to take the plunge. As we have published over the past few weeks, the Stanner Golf Classic is a day filled with many perks. Every golfer will enjoy food and beverages throughout the day, cocktails, dinner, dessert, prize holes, door prizes, silent and live auctions, a raffle, and more. Beyond that, your participation directly helps students in need through our scholarship program. The bar was set high last year, with over $155,000 raised. I am confident that together as a community, along with 2016 Chairman Joe Papavero ’04 and our dedicated Golf Board, we are capable of raising the bar even higher. It all starts with your registration.
I would also like to encourage our community to consider volunteering at the Stanner Golf Classic. There are many roles throughout the day that need to be filled, and our volunteers are very important toward providing a quality experience for our alumni and corporate sponsors. If you are interested in volunteering please contact me as soon as possible.
Lastly, I would like to once again extend my condolences to the Smith family. Joe Smith was a teacher at Molloy for over 40 years, but beyond the classroom he was an enthusiastic volunteer and an even better friend to generations of alumni. He was particularly close to alumni who have golfed with us over the years because, as you may know, Joe was one of the Stanner Golf Classic’s three co-founders. Along with Jim Kinnier and John Gibbons, the “Three Amigos” created a tradition that is now celebrating its 30th year. I think the perfect way to celebrate Joe’s legacy would be a strong showing on May 2nd.
We’re looking forward to a great outing on what will hopefully be a sunny day. Get your registrations in today, and we’ll see you out on the course soon.
Remembering Mr. Smith
It was with sadness that Molloy shared news of the passing of Mr. Joseph J. Smith on April 8th at the age of 72. Joe Smith taught English at Molloy from 1968 until his retirement in the late 2000’s. Mr. Smith loved Molloy, and he always worked hard to bring the out best in each student. In addition to his passion for education, Mr. Smith was also an avid volunteer. In 1987 he, along with colleagues Jim Kinnier and John Gibbons, founded the Stanner Golf Classic, which has since raised over $2 million in scholarship support for students in need. He actively supported the Classic for nearly three decades. Mr. Smith was a wonderful mentor and friend to many, and he will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with Mr. Smith, his family, friends, and students.
News of Mr. Smith’s passing prompted an outpouring of love and support from the Molloy community via social media. Alumni, friends, family members, and colleagues shared many wonderful memories of Mr. Smith, his English class, and sometimes even his detention periods! The memories, however, were all genuine, and speak to a man that truly cared for his students. Here are just a few tributes:
“My prayers are with you Mr. Smith. Sending you my best. God Bless You. I learned many valuable lessons from you as my English teacher all those years ago. Thank you.” – Joe Manfre, CPA, ‘74
“Mr. Smith, you are one of the finest men I have ever met in my life and you were a great mentor to me. Some remember your gruffness or detention halls, but they don’t always realize how much of a caring man you were and how everything you did was for the benefit of your students and colleagues. You were a great inspiration to so many, and you were an amazing man. You helped shape the course of many lives. I have many fond memories of your lessons and will never forget the impact you had on me.” – Mike Riccardi ‘91
“Rest in Peace, Mr. Smith. Having you as an English teacher was one of the best things that had happened to me at Molloy. Much of what I learned in your class made me a sharper and more inquisitive student. That extended well into college and after. Thank you.” – Edgar Malaran ’96
“Mr. Smith was an amazing teacher and mentor. He will be missed. I will never forget the many camping trips he, Mr. Gibbons, and Mr. Kinnier took us on! So much fun! Non Scholae Sed Vitae. Rest in peace, Mr. Smith. And say hi to Mr. Gibbons for me.” – Michael Campanella ’98
“Thank you Mr. Smith. I will forever remember you.” – Louis Delvalle ’09
Around the School
Molloy Celebrates International Day
Molloy prides itself on strong values of faith, service, and excellence in academics and athletics. We also takes great pride in the diversity of our students, who collectively represent hundreds of different ethnicities among the thousands that make up New York City. In order to take advantage our central location in New York’s most diverse borough, faculty and staff founded International Day. Now 35 years running, International Day offers an opportunity for our students to celebrate their diverse cultural backgrounds through song, dance, and homemade ethnic foods.
From Europe to East Asia, South America to the Middle East, and Africa to the Caribbean, dozens of countries all across the globe were represented at this year’s International Day. The Irish Jig and Bollywood Fusion were among an eclectic performance program that also included Merengue, Salsa, and Bachata dances. Molloy’s Ebony Club, Step Team, and Dance Team each rounded out the performance portion of the day with dance routines highlighting American culture as well as cultural diversity as a general theme. “Students were excited and extremely prideful to take part in these cultural performances,” said Principal Darius Penikas, who served on the International Day planning committee for the first time. “I was impressed by not only the amount of preparation that went into each movement and step, but their execution was wonderful. It was definitely a sight to see for everyone in attendance.” (Pictured: President Richard Karsten ’81 with Herbert Leona ’11 and family)
Later in the day, homemade ethnic dishes were prepared by students and their families and made for a quick taste of regions around the world. For those craving something savory, the Leona family, including Class of 2011 graduate Herbert Leona, served up healthy portions of their whole coal fire cooked pig. Homemade lasagna, Asian glass noodles and dumplings, empanadas, tortas, smoked cheeses from Holland, Dutch pancakes, and Irish soda bread were among the many offerings served up to the hungry crowd of 400 students, parents, faculty, and alumni.
“International Day is one of my favorite days on the Molloy calendar,” said President Richard Karsten ’81. “It is important for our students to celebrate their own cultural diversity while at the same time learning about the ethnic backgrounds of friends and their families. It helps create an understanding that we are all part of one global family.” President Karsten also praised the participation of the school community at large, describing parents as “an important link to our students’ heritage who should always be celebrated.”
View full International Day Photo Gallery
Stanner Players Present: 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
- When: 4/15 @ 7pm | 4/16 @ 7pm | 4/17 @ 2pm
- Where: Molloy’s Ralph DeChiaro Theater
- Admission: Adults $10 | Students & Kids $5
- CLICK HERE TO RESERVE TICKETS
This weekend, the Stanner Players present their spring show: an adaptation of the 2005 Tony nominated Broadway production The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. The Stanner Players are excited to perform this musical comedy documenting the trials and tribulations of six kids competing against each other in the quirkiest spelling bee around – and they’re being judged by even stranger adults. It’s not too late to get your tickets! Show times, how to reserve tickets, and other information is available via the above link. We invite all members of our community to come out and support our Stanner Players!
Molloy Community Rallies to Give the Gift of Life
On March 22nd, the New York Blood Center (NYBC) visited Molloy to conduct our annual Blood Drive. According to NYBC stats, one person’s donation can help save up to three lives. Community hospitals accept donations regularly, which in turn help all different kinds of people in need. This year Molloy screened 108 donors, of which 90 were approved, resulting in 104 pints of lifesaving blood donations. Donors included students, faculty members, parents, and alumni. “Thank you to all of our donors and our friends at NYBC,” said Ms. Kathy Forgione, Molloy’s Registered Nurse. “The donations we received have helped save many lives, and they have made it possible for future blood drives to be hosted here at our school.”
DaeQuan Morrison ’16 Performs Voiceover for Commercial
Senior DaeQuan Morrison ’16 entered the living rooms of millions of TV viewers during the NCAA tournament in March thanks to his role in a national commercial spot. Daequan provided a stunning voiceover performance for the NCAA’s TV spot titled “Courts”. The commercial depicts young athletes playing basketball on courts in schools and public parks, while Daequan narrates, “Great moments are born from great opportunity…this is your time…now go out there and take it.” The commercial promotes strong academic, athletic, and good health values as important to maintain while working hard toward your goals. You can watch the commercial here: http://www.ispot.tv/ad/A2hN/ncaa-courts
Sports Update
Molloy athletes and coaches have been in the news since the start of the school year, and fortunately spring has proven no different! The Tablet Diocesan newspaper has named its Girls’ and Boys’ All-Star Basketball Teams, and several Stanners were honored among the best in Brooklyn and Queens. Among the boys, Isaac Grant ’16 was named to the “AA” First Team, while freshman teammate Cole Anthony ’19 (far left) scored a spot on the “AA” Second Team. For Isaac it is the second consecutive year he has earned this honor. For the girls, Kathryn Gibson ’16 represents Molloy on The Tablet’s Division I First Team. She is committed to playing ball at Molloy College next year. The Queens Ledger also published their All-Queens Basketball Honors, and Molloy was prominently featured alongside other outstanding programs. Coach Mike McCleary was named All-Queens Coach of the Year, while Isaac Grant and Cole Antthony were each named to the All-Queens First Team. Sophomore Khalid Moore ’18 received an honorable mention. The Ledger praised Coach McCleary for his ability to mix new talent with seasoned veterans, while Cole continues to turn heads with his clutch play late in games. Isaac was saluted for his leadership and stability on the court and in the locker room. Congratulations to all on great seasons. These articles can be found in the right column of The Beehive under the “Stanners in the News” section.
Other Upcoming Events
Men’s Soccer 40th Anniversary – Tomorrow! 
- When: Saturday, April 16th, 2016 | Alumni Games 2:00pm | Cocktail Reception 6:00pm | Formal Dinner 7:00pm
- Where: Archbishop Molloy High School
- Who: Men’s Soccer Alumni
- Contact: Matt Rizzotti ’04 | mrizzotti@molloyhs.org
- REGISTRATION NOW CLOSED
Molloy is all set to celebrate the 40th anniversary of its men’s soccer program! We are blessed to have a large crowd attending on Saturday, and we thank everyone who took the time to register early. For those who have not registered, the online form is now closed. Please email Matt Rizzotti for availability. The day will begin with alumni soccer games starting at 2:00pm (weather permitting, flat shoes only). Later, a cocktail reception will begin at 6:00pm followed by a formal dinner at 7:00pm – all right here at Molloy. In addition, Coach Andy Kostel, other coaches through the years, and teachers including Mr. Rodgers and Mr. Diorio will be in attendance to join in the celebration! For those looking to connect with former teammates online, search “Archbishop Molloy Men’s Soccer Alumni” on Facebook and join the group!
St. Ann’s Communion Breakfast – RSVP! 
- When: Sunday, June 5th, 2016 | 10:00am
- Where: Archbishop Molloy High School
- Who: St. Ann’s Alumni + Guest
- REGISTRATION NOW CLOSED
On behalf of Archbishop Molloy High School and the Stanner Alumni Center, we extend an invitation to our St. Ann’s Alumni to attend our St. Ann’s Communion Breakfast on Sunday, June 5th here at Molloy. Those planning to attend are encouraged to arrive at Molloy at 10:00am. Mass will begin promptly at 10:30am in our beautifully renovated first floor chapel. A buffet breakfast will be served following Mass. In gratitude for your leadership and serving as an example for succeeding generations of Stanners, admission to this year’s St. Ann’s Communion Breakfast is once again complimentary of President Karsten ‘81 and the Stanner Alumni Center. Please RSVP by Monday, May 30th to Mrs. Merl Doyle at (718) 441-9210 or via email at mdoyle@molloyhs.org.
Molloy Music & Art Festival
- When: Sunday, April 24th, 2016 | 12:30pm
- Where: Archbishop Molloy High School
- Admission: Adults $10 | Students $5
We invite the Molloy community to come out and see spectacular student art displays and theater performances, and to hear our freshman/sophomore chorus, junior/senior chorus, guitar and string ensembles, stage band, and NYSSMA soloists! The Molloy Music & Art Festival takes place on Sunday, April 24th! Refreshments, prepared by our Baking Club, will be served in the Festival Bistro. Student tickets are $5, while adults are $10. Doors open at 12:30pm. Performances and exhibits begin at 12:45pm and continue through 5:00pm. Please enter through the cafeteria doors from our parking lot. Come, enjoy the day, and support the arts at Molloy!
During a visit to the US Military Academy at West Point, college guidance counselor Mr. Ted McGuinness ‘81 met up with Lukasz Derda ’02. Lukasz (left) is the Northeast Commander for Admission for the USMA. Pictured right is Mike Bedryk ’95, who serves as a National Guard Liason. “The USMA was trying to increase awareness about their school and the application process. I was invited to represent Molloy as one of many counselors from across the country. We were given the grand tour,” explained Mr. McGuinness. Mr. Gus Esgro, also a college guidance counselor at Molloy, just returned from the Naval Academy in Annapolis following a similar trip. “This is the first time counselors from Molloy have been on these tours,” said Mr. McGuinness. “Visits like these are a great opportunity for us to deepen our connections at two of the best academics in the country. At the end of the day it’s our students who benefit most.”
Tony DiNome ‘54 recently retired as an adjunct professor at C.W. Post L.I.U. He spent over 39 years in public education. Tony shares that he will always be proud to be a graduate of St. Ann’s Academy.
George Jehn ’63, the author of Final Destination: Disaster, What Really Happened to Eastern Airlines, is proud to announce that the movie option rights to the book have been acquired by entertainment exec Rob DeFranco. The book is a memoir that tells the true story behind the crash of Eastern Airlines Flight 980. “I am excited to see my book adapted to the big screen and reach the widest audience possible,” said George of the acquisition. In a press release, DeFranco stated, “this is an amazing story and I am excited to be developing the property.” An announcement was also made earlier this week in Variety Magazine. We look forward to receiving more updates about the progress of the movie in the coming months. | Read the Variety Magazine Announcement
James Kearny ’76 is proud to share that he and his wife Nicole have five children, and their eldest daughter Noelle just gave birth to their first grandchild, Bri, in December. Noelle has another child on the way – and it’s a girl again! The newest addition to the family is due in August 2016. James also shared: “I have many great memories of Molloy, and I’d like to send a shout out to all my classmates from SoCal!”
Archbishop Molloy High School is saddened to share the passing of Sherban Pavlovici Jr., MD, ’88. A physician from Manhasset Hills, NY, Sherban was unfortunately stricken with a neurodegenerative disease which claimed his life far too soon. Sherban was a gifted doctor and a loving husband and father, and he will be dearly missed by all who knew him. Please keep Sherban in your thoughts and prayers. Read more about Sherban’s life HERE.
We ask that you please pray for the repose of the soul of Owen McParland ’72, brother of Eugene McParland ’64. Owen passed away at his home in Sabastian, Florida. He is survived by his wife, Theresa. Owen ran track at Molloy and is said to have loved his high school years. Owen joins his faithfully departed brother, Kevin McParland ’66 and cousin, Thomas McParland ’71, in eternal peace. Please keep the McParland family in your prayers.
Please pray for the repose of the soul of Mrs. Mary Phelan, mother of Timothy ’66, James ’71, Thomas ’75, John ’81, and Joseph ’85. The matriarch of a wonderful Stanner family, Mrs. Phelan will be dearly missed by all who knew her. Services for Mrs. Phelan will be held this Tuesday, April 19th from 2-4pm and 7-9pm at Meserole Funeral Home (143 Lord Ave, Inwood, NY 11096, 516.239.1398). Funeral services will be held Wednesday, April 20th at 9:30am at Our Lady of Good Counsel Church (68 Wanser Ave, Inwood, NY 11096). Please keep the Phelans in your prayers.
We are saddened to share the passing of Michelle McGrath Bischoff, wife of Philip Bischoff ’82. Michelle, a resident of Mooresville, North Carolina, passed away on March 24th. She was born on December 10, 1960, in Astoria, New York, to Marie Fernbacker McGrath Tinney and the late John P. McGrath. Michelle had a BA from James Madison University and a Masters from New York University. She attended St. Therese Catholic Church. Please keep Michelle, Philip, and the Bischoff family in your prayers.
It is with great sadness we share the news of the passing of Mary (Keighery) Coughlin, mother to Kevin’84 and his 9 brothers and sisters. Mrs. Coughlin passed away peacefully in her sleep after 90 years having cared for 10 kids, twenty grandchildren, and seven great grandchildren. A native of Galway, Ireland, she made Bay Ridge, Brooklyn her home for almost 70 years. Please keep the Coughlin family in your prayers.
Leave A Reply