9/11 Tenth Anniversary Memorial Mass
On Saturday, September 17th, Stanners representing many generations came together to pay tribute to those Molloy alumni, family, and friends who lost their lives ten years ago on September 11, 2001. The solemn Mass took place in the Ralph DeChiaro Theater and was celebrated by Father Pat Flanagan from St. John’s University, who regularly celebrates Mass for our students and faculty. The Stanners honored during Mass were Richard D. Allen ’88, FDNY, Thomas J. Ashton ’97, Joseph J. Berry ’64, Michael J. Cawley ’87, FDNY, Batt. Chief Thomas P. DeAngelis ’68, FDNY, William A. Gardner ’73, Scott Larsen, parent, FDNY, Ralph M. Licciardi ’89, Lt. Robert B. Nagel ’63 FDNY, Lt. Robert M. Regan ’71 FDNY, Mr. Mark Rosen, parent, Robert L. Scandole ’83, Capt. Patrick J. Waters ’74, parent, FDNY, and Timothy M. Welty ’85 FDNY. Chris Waters ’05, son of Patrick Waters and one of many people to read the names of victims at the official September 11th Memorial Ceremony at the WTC site this month, was one of several family members who participated in the mass with readings and offering sacraments during Saturday’s Mass. Other readings were spoken by Mary Rosen, and Margaret Cawley.
Following the Gospel, Alumni Spiritual Director Br. Pat Hogan read the names of Stanner victims out loud while Br. Roy George, the principal of Molloy at the time of the attacks, gently sounded the St. Ann’s bell for each name. Before Mass ended, Mr. Frank Gambino ’74, longtime religion teacher and coach at Molloy, played an original song on his guitar with lyrics that truly touched everyone in the room. The song was inspired by the victims of that tragic day, including the many fallen Stanners that he had taught over the years. Following Mass, the memorial plaque in the main hallway was rededicated by Fr. Flanagan as an additional acknowledgement that those that perished will never be forgotten. Chris Murphy ’87 is pictured above as he reads and reflects on the names listed on the memorial plaque. Click here to view a photo gallery from the Memorial Mass.
Around the School
Stanners Visit Lourdes, France
While students are still getting back to their studying routines, joining clubs and sports, and everyday life at Molloy, some of them are still daydreaming about their trip across the Atlantic this past August. Twenty-six Stanners including senior students and alumni boarded a jet to Lourdes, France where they stayed for roughly 11 days to take in the sights and sounds of Europe while also offering their time and service to people in need. As the Marist Brothers have always taught, putting the needs of others before your own is critical to living out the mission of St. Marcellin Champagnat. The Stanners took full advantage of this opportunity by assisting sick individuals (including those in wheelchairs) in the Piscine (the baths) and on their transport trains across Europe and also by helping to organize Grotto Masses and nightly candlelight processions. Those that are allowed the opportunity to travel to Lourdes must have been involved in service at Molloy throughout their tenure. According to Br. Pat Hogan, “Many participants have received the Champagnat Award for outstanding service. Of the 10 awards given out at the 2011 graduation ceremony, 9 of those winners went on to be accepted to Lourdes by the selection committee.” With that said, fulfilling the requirements (including individual fundraising efforts to attain the $2,000 to take the trip) is all worth it in hind sight for our Stanner travelers. Mary Braunstein ’05, previously a teacher’s assistant at Molloy, took the trip (after being encouraged to do so by Br. Pat) and was quoted saying, “Lourdes…is quite possibly highest on my list of best decisions I have ever made.”
Upcoming Events
Alumni Softball Game
On Saturday, October 8th all Molloy baseball alumni, who once upon a time played under Coach Curran, are invited to come out and see our Varsity boys take on Fordham Prep and then participate in a special alumni softball game – all on our Stanner Field at Molloy. First pitch for the Varsity game is scheduled for 11:00AM with the alumni softball game tentatively scheduled to begin at 1:30PM. For the $35 registration fee you will enjoy food and refreshments including catered 6 foot heroes, snacks, sodas and water and also be able to participate in the game, or you can simply hang out with your fellow baseball alumni and watch the game unfold. You may register online for this event here. Please note that space is limited for this event, so register early if possible. For more information please contact Craig Katinas ’93 at ckatinas@molloyhs.org. Special thanks to Mike McCleary, Steve Strohm ’99 and James Arrante ’99. All proceeds from this event will be put towards the continued maintenance and upkeep of our Stanner Baseball Field.
Stanner Reunion & Hall of Fame Induction
Register Online Now! The next Stanner Class Reunion is just around the corner. On Saturday, November 5th, 2011 the classes of 1941, 1946, 1951, 1956, 1961, 1966, 1971, 1976, 1981, 1986, 1991, 1996, 2001, and 2006 will reunite at Archbishop Molloy High School. There will also be a special reunion for the class of 1979, who have been very active in recruiting class members. We also welcome back all alumni that have ever run track and field for a very special reunion. We hope that you will return to Molloy and reconnect with your classmates and your favorite faculty members, and also to see what will be the completely modernized William J. Murphy library! The day begins with registration at 4:30 PM and the annual Mass of Remembrance taking place at 5:00 PM in the Ralph DeChiaro Theater. After Mass at 6:00 PM there will be a very special Stanner Hall of Fame induction for legendary Molloy track coach Frank Rienzo. Mr. Rienzo will be in attendance to receive this honor, which has already drawn a big crowd. The classes of 1961 and 1986, celebrating their 50th and 25th anniversary reunions respectively, will take part in the alumni medal presentation immediately following the Hall of Fame induction. At 6:30 PM alumni will enjoy cocktail receptions, followed by dinner, dancing, and open bar at 7:30 PM. Click here to find your class’ registration page, or contact Maria Ford at 718.943.3186 or email mford@molloyhs.org for more information.
The Andrew Harvey Memorial 5K Fun Run is just weeks away. On Sunday, October 2nd we are expecting a large turnout of dedicated Stanners for what will surely be a wonderful day for a cause that hits close to home for everyone involved. As always the run will honor Andrew Harvey ’98 who was killed in a tragic train accident during his junior year at Molloy. Andrew embodied the determination of an athlete and the commitment of a scholar, and he was well known around his community as well as around Molloy. Andrew’s memory lives on each year through the Fun Run and the scholarship established in his name. Mr. Frank Gambino ’74 always puts a ton of effort into making sure the Fun Run is a great time, and he would love to see you all at Molloy on October 2nd with your running shoes in tow. Click here to register online for this event, or download a printable registration form for mailing. Donate to Andrew’s scholarship fund here. For more information, please contact Mr. Frank Gambino at fgambino@molloyhs.org. Register by September 30th to receive your free Fun Run T-shirt the day of the event. Make sure to specify your shirt size when you register!
Stanners Visit Mike Baxter @ MLB Fan Cave
Mike Baxter ’02, who has been working incredibly hard after his promotion to the Major Leagues with the New York Mets this summer, recently visited the MLB Fan Cave in Manhattan to film an online video promoting the Baseball Tomorrow Fund’s Equipment Day Initiative. Through this initiative Major League Baseball is able to collect used sports equipment for the benefit of children in the city who cannot afford their own, which helps to keep more young people active and outdoors. Baxter, as a Queens native and lifelong athlete, was the perfect choice to serve as an ambassador for MLB’s efforts as he has the personal experience of growing up in the city and in turn a strong personal connection with the cause. Baxter also had the privilege to meet with several people from the Stanner community including current student athletes Kristen Maurer ‘14 and Julianne Tracy ‘12, teacher and coach Lou Santos, Alumni Development Director Craig Katinas ’93, and other pictured guests including Ray Maurer ’15, Matt Fealey ‘02, Anthony Avitable ’91, Ray Maurer Sr. ’82, Mike Constantine ‘00, Nick Trotta ‘95, Mike Fisher ‘94, and Steve Arocho ’00. Baxter took photos and signed autographs to round out his first visit to the Fan Cave, which he gave rave reviews. He also hopes to visit Molloy soon. It was a great event for a good cause, and special thanks go to all Stanner executives involved with MLB, Mike Baxter, and all others in our community who attended this event. Click the following link to view Baxter’s MLB promo.
Mike Baxter MLB Fan Cave Video
Briarwood 9/11 Memorial Ceremony
Sy Schwartz, President of the Briarwood Community Association invited Molloy President Richard Karsten ‘81 to address the congregation at Briarwood’s 9/11 Memorial Ceremony. Molloy’s Pipes and Drums Band led the procession down Queens Boulevard near Main Street. Mr. Karsten is pictured with Senator Malcolm Smith, Deputy Borough President Barry Grodenchik, and Assemblyman Rory Lancman. Also in attendance were Council Member James F. Gennaro (father of Brian Gennaro, ‘87), Yoel Schonfeld from Young Israel of Kew Gardens Hills and the John Bowne High School ROTC Honor Guard.
World Youth Day
Since 1984 the Catholic Church has sought to bring young people together for World Youth Day, a faith-filled event which truly lives up to its name. For 6 days young people from around the world are invited to gather together as one in celebration of the Catholic faith. Religious leaders including Archbishops, Cardinals and His Holiness the Pope himself have traveled to cities such as Buenos Aires, Paris, Toronto, and Sydney to pray with millions of young people. Hundreds of nationalities are represented at each World Youth Day as the flags of different countries wave over the heads of the crowd and the Pope begins to speak. Just ask Victor Starsky ’09, a member of the Diocese of Brooklyn for over 20 years. Victor has always maintained his faith in God, but admittedly in more of a meditative capacity. His girlfriend Claudia Goncalves, a fellow 2009 graduate at Molloy, felt that he could use a more divine experience, and encouraged him to attend World Youth Day with her in Madrid, Spain. Victor decided to give it a try.
“It was really something,” said Victor. “There were at least a million and a half people there celebrating Mass. Just reading that number is one thing, but it doesn’t make the same dent as seeing it in person. To see all of these people from across the world come together in one spot to see the Pope and express their faith, their beliefs…it was a ‘wow’ moment for me.” In addition to attending Mass, Victor and Claudia participated in other events including the catechesis in a nearby stadium. For 5 hours, 3 times a week a faith-based talk was conducted by an Archbishop, Cardinal, or Lay person to large crowds, although the Papal Mass still remained the most attended event of the week. At least 350 priests and 50 to 80 bishops were in attendance throughout the week at both the Mass and the catechesis. Victor and Claudia also took part in the Stations of the Cross and toured some of Madrid with Bishop Nicholas Damarzio representing the Diocese of Brooklyn. Along the way Victor and Claudia also encountered some fellow Molloy alumni and current students including brothers Kevin Ginter ’10 and Stephen Ginter ‘06, Jacqueline Perez ’13, Teresamarie Governale ‘10, Ray Lumokso ‘11, Ian McNee ‘11, Brittany Dombrowski ’09 (pictured left carrying the Diocese of Brooklyn flag), Sarha Avendano ’10, William Perez ’11, Mary Rooney ’11, and Jonathan Zappel ‘05. Seeing almost two million young people join together to celebrate their Catholic faith in Madrid, including many Stanners, was an experience totally worth the effort for Victor. He explains, “It is reaffirming to know that there are so many people in the world who believe in the same thing.
Ben Joson ’10 was also at World Youth Day, snapping photos (as he did in his Molloy days for the Yearbook) and taking part in many of the events around Madrid. Ben felt World Youth Day would be a great opportunity for him to not only celebrate his faith, but also to further understand his heritage by connecting with the Filipino community that has been part of Spain for many years. Ben attended the International Mass, the opening Mass, the catechesis, and an event hosted by “Catholic Underground” in addition to touring the Roman Aqueducts. Ben was very moved by his experience at World Youth Day as he saw what everyone went through just to have an opportunity to pray together with the Pope. “One other experience really stood out to me. A friend saw a Jesus statue and laid her hands on its knees. She began crying as she told me she prayed for her father’s knee injury. It was amazing to see how strong faith can be.” Photo credits to Ben Joson.
John Meade ’52 has been in touch with several close friends from his 1952 NYC Basketball championship team including Larry Tierney ‘52 (Alberqueqe, NM) and Dennis Buckley ‘52 (White Plains, NY). John realized that next year it will be 60 years since their graduation and magical championship season. 1952 was also Lou Carnesecca’s ’43 first year coaching the team. John is happy to say that Larry is coming east soon, which will help facilitate a mini-reunion between the three friends. They also hope to visit Molloy as a group. John lives in Poughquag about 20 minutes from Esopus, where he still spends a lot of time.
We received a prayer request from John F. Doyle ’77 for his mother, Mrs. Frances Doyle. John asks that the Stanner community please pray for Mrs. Doyle as she currently deals with illness. The Doyles are hoping that she will have plenty more time to share with her children and grandchildren. Please keep Mrs. Doyle in your thoughts.
Liam Flaherty ’83 is being honored at the Great Irish Fair in Coney Island next weekend. Liam is a member of the FDNY and is a Captain in one of their Rescue Companies. The Great Irish Fair is an annual event for families and friends celebrating Irish culture and heritage in this New York City. Click here to read a full list of honorees. Liam was also recently profiled by ABC and Good Morning America. His work at the World Trade Center site following the attacks on September 11th, 2001 was highlighted as well as his participation in a cross country race called “Tour of Duty” spanning 20 states meant to pay tribute to the souls lost on 9/11. The race began in Los Angeles and ended at the WTC site on the tenth anniversary. To read more about this story, click here.
After last week’s special election several Stanners had reason to celebrate. The Turner family, including Lee ’83, Paul ’85, Thomas ’87, Mark ’90, and Dan ’92, saw father and uncle Bob Turner win the vacated Queens congressional seat. The Turner boys are ecstatic about the victory and are making calls and appearances around town to share their excitement. Congratulations to the Turner family.
Eugene M. McCaffrey ’39 has passed away. A 56 year resident of New Hyde Park, NY. Beloved husband of Marilynn for 66 years. Loving father of Mary Joan (Roger Graham), Eugene Jr. (Andrea), Stephen, Ellen (Dennis Olsen) and John. Cherished grandfather to Ashley, Melanie, Matthew, Caitlin, Brianne, Katherine, Sara, Meghan and James. Dear brother of Cathleen Donohue and the late Francis and Rev. Bernard C.S.C. Fond uncle to Cathi Donohue. Gene was a devoted 4th Degree member of the NHP Knights of Columbus #2852 and a Knight of the Holy Sepulchre. On behalf of the Diocese of Rockville Centre he was a past Executive Chairman of Catholic Charities and a recipient of the Caritas Award and the St. Agnes Medal of Service. As a Notre Dame parishioner he served as a President of the St. Vincent de Paul Society, parish Trustee, President of the Holy Name Society, school board, Eucharistic Minister and founded the lectors program. He was also the Vice Chairman of Nassau County Republican Party and Executive Committeeman NHP-GCP Republican Club. Retired employee of Nassau County where he served as Deputy County Clerk, Commissioner of Personnel, Deputy Commissioner of General Services and Chairman of the Alcohol Beverage Control Board.
Barbara Pumilia, wife of Joseph J. Pumilia ’51, informed us that Joe passed away on March 5, 2011. She asks that that Stanner community please pray for Joe and him in your thoughts.
We are saddened to share news of the passing of Mrs. Mary Farrell, mother of Stanner Hall of Famers Thomas ‘61 and Peter ‘64. Please pray for the Farrell family during this difficult time.
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