The Ageless Warriors Archive
Our archive contains past news clips, newsletters, alumni spotlight stories,
events and featured Home Page stories.
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Local Assistance Available
Citizen Soldier – www.citizen-soldier.org , Coalition to salute America’s Heros www.saluteheroes.org
Fitzgerald House www.fitzgeraldhouse.org, The Fund for Veterans’ Education www.veteranseducationfund.org, Hats off to Veterans (Manhattan College) www.mysoldier.com
Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America www.iava.org, Lead the Way Fund www.leadthewayfund.org, New York Military Ministry & Fellowship Group www.nymmfg.org
NYMetroVets http://groups.yahoo.com/group.NYMetroVets , Reserve Aid www.reserveaid.org
Staten Island Project Homefront www.siprojecthomefront.org , Veterans of modern Warfare Inc. www.modernveterans.com , The Veterans Residence (The Jericho Project) www.jerichoproject.org
Wounded Warrior Project www.woundedwarriorproject.org
This was in Crain’s New York Business/ February 4, 2008
Provided By : Susan Meeker, Executive Director of the West Brighton Community LDC
Curtis Gals Clinch Island Division Swimming Title Bob Nestel, October 26, 2009
Rosemarie O’Connor and Krista Caputo were triple winners as Curtis captured the PSAL Island division crown with a 54-47 win over Tottenville Sunday at the College of Staten Island. "We made a couple of switches from our usual lineup, finishing 1-2 in the 200 IM and 100 back," said coach Ellen Cartmell-Kaht. "We hit a lot of personal bests today. Considering the lack of pool time, I was very impressed with our times." The Warriors (5-0 PSAL) won the first three races, with Rosemarie O’Connor, Ann O’Connor, Kaylie Bruce and Allison Ulsh taking the 200 medley relay, Caputo the 200 free and Rosemarie and Ann O’Connor going 1-2 in the 200 IM. Tottenville’s Stephanie D’Angelo won the 50 free, but Amanda Koenig won diving and Caputo the 100 butterfly to keep the Warriors ahead. D’Angelo won the 100 free, Sara Giberson the 500 free and the Pirates won the 200 free relay to keep it close. But wins
Curtis High School Alumni gather at 'Ageless Warriors Barbecue'
by Mark Stein Staten Island Advance, Sunday July 19, 2009, 2:00 PM
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Once a year, a portion of Staten Island links generations of Curtis High School classes, as some come from as far as Virginia and Florida, just to spend a few hours with faces of the past.
Bill Lyons/Staten Island Advance.
Among the attendees at this year's Ageless Warriors Barbecue were New Dorp residents Gerry Mosiello and her husband, honoree, Dr. Gene Mosiello of the Class of 1962. Also, Silver Lake residents John Marino, Class of 1971 and the event coordinator, along with his wife, Maureen.
At the Ageless Warriors Barbecue, an unofficial gathering of Curtis alumni held last night at the Veranda Cafe at Silver Lake Golf Course, about 90 graduates, most from the classes of the 1960s and 1970s, shared stories from the past and present.
Willowbrook's Rich Rinelli, 56, of the class of 1971, reminisced on a story of when he and his entire football team had to push a bus out of the mud to get home from a rained out football game. He also mentioned how it was great to see a girl he dated as a youngster, who he went to school with from kindergarten through the end of high school. She now lives in Chesapeake, Va. "When you see people, I think of things that happened," he said. "I would love to go back [to Curtis] and just walk around."
For Dr. Eugene Mosiello, a former Curtis football coach who founded the Lt. Nick Lia Foundation and the Andrew Barberi Scholarship Award, it was a night of strong examples. He was honored with the Ageless Warrior Lifetime Service Award, presented to him by Congressman Michael E. McMahon (D-Staten Island/Brooklyn) and City Councilman Kenneth Mitchell (D-North Shore).
While at Curtis, Mosiello was close to two influential individuals: His best friend, the late Nick Lia, a Vietnam War hero killed in action, and the late Andrew Barberi, a Staten Island football pioneer and former Curtis High School football head coach. "Because of those great times and great people, they presented many opportunities [for me to help others]," Mosiello said, mentioning his appreciation toward event coordinator and pal John Marino.
He hopes to be an influence for others to look up to, just like Lia and Barberi were to him. "It wasn't winning a game," he said. "It was winning in life. They were examples of greatness."
Mark Stein is a news reporter for the Advance. He may be reached at stein@siadvance.com.
Curtis Earth Science teacher from West Brighton takes to 
the seas
by Tevah Platt Thursday July 30, 2009
A Curtis High School teacher climbed aboard the Hugh R. Sharp vessel this summer to conduct 12 days of research at sea. Elise Olivieri of West Brighton, an earth science teacher at Curtis, was one of 30 instructors selected to take part in the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Teacher at Sea program, which provides educators with hands-on experiences they can take back to the classroom. "It was probably the most incredible experience I've ever had," said Ms. Olivieri. "Being out in the open ocean and being a part of NOAA research felt really exhilarating."
read more Elise Olivieri
June/July Alumni Spotlight
Dr. Eugene Mosiello
Class of 62' Orthodontis and Community Leader
"2009 Ageless Warrior Lifetime Service Award Recepient"
Fifty years ago this month two skinny kids showed up at Clove Lakes Park for their first summer practice with the Curtis H.S.Football Team. Coach Andy Barberi didn’t get to practices in those days until August but by the beginning of September, the Coach recognized he had two very special freshmen. Gene Mosiello and Nick Lia.
It was obvious from the start Barberi had not only two football players but two young leaders, both boys excelled in all they participated in, school and academics. The Curtis football team in those days had a little trouble winning games but the players on those teams, in the late 50’s and early 60’s developed life long friendships fostered by the leadership of both these young man.
Nick went on to Wagner immediately and excelled on the football field and more importantly in the classroom. It was Nick who rode Gene about getting a college education and having some fun playing football at the same time. As we all know Nick Lia went on to be a fearless leader of an undefeated Wagner College football team, excelled in his studies and became an inspiration to Gene and many other. After graduaton Nick, now Lt. Nick Lia found himself proudly going off to serve our country in Vietnam. It was there on his second tour that he gave his life for our country as many other courages young men. From the moment Gene heard of Nick's death he began working daily to keep the memory of his best friend alive on Staten Island. This was probably the only way Gene could deal with the grief.
Since those days of hanging with Nick, Gene Mosiello coached Curtis football, from 1968 to 1971, while he was teaching at St. Benedicta School. He founded the Lt. Nick Lia Foundation, became a Committee Member of the Council of the Boys Scouts of America and became Vice President of the Staten Island Children’s Campaign sponsored by the S.I. Advance.
Coach as he now became known was also instrumental in bringing Pop Warner football to New York City, instrumental in starting the Lt. Nick Lia Plainsman Youth Football (5th to 8th graders) and organized the S.I. Warriors, who compete throughout NYC. "Doc" as he later became known as his orthodontis practice grew, also participated in spreading the message of Msgr. John Servodidio’s with the Fr. John Boys Community Group and became one of the founders of the St. Joseph by the Sea Football program. In 1988 Doc received the Borough Presidents Community Service Award for his work with S.I. Youth. In 1991 he was given the S.I. Advance All Star Community Service Award as a “Friend of Sports and Youth”. In 1993 Doc received two awards the YMCA Community Service Award and the Guiseppe Mazzini Lodge Order of the Sons of Italy Outstanding Achievement Award.
In 2001 when most guys were looking into retirement. Doc became a big part of the Poly Prep Football Program and was appointed to the Board of Trustees of St. Joseph by the Sea High School. As if that wasn't enough he became a Committee Member of the S.I. Sports Hall of Fame and a member of the Italian Renaissance Committee for Honor students at Wagner College. All this while building an Orthodontist practice, guiding his three children in their early adult lives and supporting his wife in her career as an educator.
Then as all his peers headed to retire in Florida, Dr. Mosiello started anew and founded the Fr. Vincent Capodanno / Lt. Nick Lia Foundation and most importantly to Curtis High School, the Andrew Barberi Scholarship Award. “Doc’ has served Curtis H.S. as an athlete, coach, teacher and huge financial supporter, all while continuing to honor his best friend Nick Lia and his finest teacher Coach Andrew Barberi.
Gene, Coach, Doc, Dr. Mosiello regardless of how you address him, he always responds, yes we all know he talks a lot but he always has something worthwhile to say and you listen. There is no doubt both he and his wife Gerry, who has also been recognized as an outstanding educator at P.S. 23, have been a very important part of the educational process of our youth on Staten Island.
We honor Dr. Eugene Mosiello here today not only for his life long dedication to the youth of Curtis High School and all Staten Island Youth but to the example that he has set as a Teammate, Coach, Father, Husband, Teacher, Orthodontist and most importantly Friend. The peers of Dr. Eugene Mosiello are very happy to present him with “the Ageless Warrior Lifetime Service Award “.
Randy Litrell (Class of 96) Carries the NYC Police Department to the National Public Safety Football League championship by defeating the Philadelphia FD Blue Flame June 13, 2009 by Staten Island Advance Sunday June 14, 2009
Former Curtis HS quarterback Randy Litrell ran for a TD and threw another to lead the NYPD team to the National Public Safety Football League championship. (Bill Lyons/Staten Island Advance) Former Curtis HS quarterback Randy Litrell threw for one touchdown and ran for another yesterday as the New York Police Department's Finest team won the National Public Safety Football League championship by defeating the Philadelphia Blue Flame, 15-6, at Tottenville HS. Litrell, an Advance All-Star QB for Curtis in 1995 and '96, put the Finest up 8-6 late in the first half with a 37-yard TD pass to Apollo Story and PAT pass to Frank Soler. Litrell, an NYPD detective, ran 15 yards for a TD in the second half. Pat Donohue kicked the point after. The game was played in honor of two players who died in the line of duty Omar Edwards of the NYPD and Patrick MacDonald of the Philadelphia Highway Patrol.
Curtis High School senior wins
prestigious Petrides Award
Thursday, May 28, 2009 By DIANE C. LORE ADVANCE STAFF WRITER
A Curtis High School senior is the recipient of the 14th annual Michael J. Petrides Student Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science. Borough President James P. Molinaro presented the award to Priyan Wickremesinghe during a reception May 13 at the Petrides Educational Complex in Sunnyside. The award was established by former Borough President Guy V. Molinari in honor of the late educator who passed away in 1994. Petrides was a dean and professor of engineering at the College of Staten Island, former chairman of Community School Board 31, and a member of the city's former Board of Education. He was dedicated to promoting excellence in math and science. The award is given annually to a graduating student who excels in these disciplines. Wickremesinghe was selected from an elite group of students nominated by their respective schools. He took home a $500 check from the Petrides family, and will have his name inscribed on a marble plaque which permanently displayed at the Petrides omplex.
Eight new members are inducted into the Curtis HS Hall of Fame
Monday, May 04, 2009 By CORMAC GORDON ADVANCE STAFF WRITER
Curtis High School yesterday inducted eight new members into its Hall of Fame during ceremonies at Feldman Hall auditorium. The honorees are: Lawrence G. Anderson, Class of 1960, established the legal studies program during his 30 years at Curtis as a teacher and coach of basketball and baseball. He also coached the Wagner College baseball team which earned an invitation to the NCAA tournament. For 24 years, he was a sportswriter with the Staten Island Advance. Dr. Luci Berman Berkowitz, Class of 1955, is a noted research scholar and teacher of the Classics who is a retired professor at the University of California at Irvine. The late William C. Casey III, Class of 1938, a retired U.S. Navy commander, pioneered the development of helicopter instrument flight capabilities that are vital to the accomplishment of night rescue. He died in 2007 in his Rockville, Md., home. Ret. Col. Eric D. Garvin, Class of 1977, served in the Air Force until 2007 when he joined Northrop Grumman to work for the flagship program, Global Hawk, a high altitude intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft.
Dr. Allan Goldstein, Class of 1955, is a professor and chairman of the biochemistry and molecular biology faculty at the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences whose research has led to the discovery of important links between the immune system, the neuroendocrine system and the brain. Dr. Thomas B. Greenslade Jr., Class of 1955, is Professor Emeritus of Physics at Kenyon College in Ohio where he taught every physics course and developed an expertise in historical physics teaching apparatus. Dr. Geraldine Oliva, Class of 1961, a pediatrician, public health administrator and researcher, is an associate professor in the Department of Family and Community Medicine and a member of the Institute for Health Policy Studies at the University of California at San Francisco. The late Chester Sellitto, Class of 1944, taught history at Curtis for 24 years and was a successful basketball coach at Wagner College where he had been a football star. He died in 2004.
Bobby (Max) McGhie 69' Inducted into SI Sports Hall of Fame by Jay Price
Sunday April 26, 2009, Staten Island Advance/Hilton Flores During Saturday's event in Pleasant Plains. Israel Joseph, who was a mentor and a role model in addition to being the director of the night center at PS 44 in Mariners Harbor when that was the hub of the neighborhood, has been sick for awhile now, and he couldn't get to the Staten Island Sports Hall of Fame's Unsung Heroes Luncheon. But the proud products of his handiwork were there Saturday. "There are some people who might not be here today if it wasn't for Mr. Joe," luncheon chairman Larry Ambrosino was telling the crowd at the CYO/MIV Center on the grounds of Mou
nt Loretto, in Pleasant Plains. That sort of get-it-done-behind-the-scenes giving back to the community the "Let Us Do Good" philosophy that inspired volunteers like the Tunnel to Towers Run's Terri Magnuski, fundraisers like Linda and Keith Manfredi, and philanthropists like Lois and Richard Nicotra -- was at the heart of the Hall of Fame's fifth annual luncheon. "Like the legs on a table," the Hall of Fame's John Iasparro was saying. "When you walk into a room and see a beautiful table, you don't even notice the legs." But if you take away the legs, you don't have much of a table. Iasparro was talking about Bobby McGhie, who put in decades as a trainer and assistant coach at Curtis High School, Moore Catholic, and St. Anthony's of Jersey City, without any compensation, and without looking for any.
Staten Island sports legend part of 2009 Curtis HS Hall of Fame class by Jay Price Thursday April 30, 2009, 10:08 AM
Larry Anderson, right, with Bert Levinson back in his playing days at Curtis some 50 years ago. (Staten Island Advance file photo)It will surprise nobody who knows him that when Larry Anderson's alma mater got around to honoring him -- kind of a lifetime achievement Oscar from the old neighborhood -- he wanted to talk about somebody else. Anybody else. To hear Anderson tell it, it was just a stroke of luck to have shown up at Curtis High School 50 years ago, when a legend like Harry O'Brien was on his way out as the Warrior baseball and basketball coach, and Bert Levinson was on his way in; when the school was full of kids who were going to be pros, or the captains of their college teams, read more .....
April Alumni Spotlight
Chantal Sicile -Kira
Internationally Known Autism Speaker and Author
In a recent conversation with Chantal told me she grew up in Rosebank on Belair Road and went to St. Mary's Catholic School with the rest of her siblings, the twins Jim and Monica Sicile and her sister Marie Jose Serbaroli. At Curtis Chantal hung aorund with the Noeding twins - Cornelia and Gabriella, Anke Schroeder and her best friend and classmate Heidi Celones. Some of Chantal's fondest memories of Staten Island was dating her next door neighbor when she was a senior, Dan Hanlon who went to Monsignor Farrel High School. Chantal told me how she loved to ice skate at Cloves Lake and go to an old funky bar - Joe's - in Stapleton. But most of all she misses the Staten Island ferry ride to Manhattan. "I loved the view of Manhattan from Curtis and I used to walk to the ferry, take the ferry boat, have a slice at the terminal and ride back, doing my homework on the ferry. The ferry ride to Manhattan and the views was always my favorite thing. After graduate Chantal and her family moved to Ohio, and then back to Staten Island and Cebra Avenue in Stapleton Heights. Soon after Chantal met her future husband Daniel Kira, from Great Kills. Dan graduated from Susan Wagner High School. Chantal and Dan have two children, Jeremy 20 and Rebecca 16. Chantal's brother Jim lives in Pennsylvannia with his family. He was camerman with ABC for 20 years and now freelance for both ABC and NBC. Monica is a framer in a frame shop and enjoying the life in LA. Marie Jose raised two kids and is a stay at home mom. Chantral has recruited both Jim and Monica to join the Ageless Warriors and of course you can also contact them on Facebook :-) Well enough of my little interview, obviously Chantal has accomplish much and little did she imagine how successful she would become while she was at Curtis High School. Chantal received her BA in Social Ecology from the University of California at Irvine (UCI). Her first practical experience with autism was at Fairview State Hospital, teaching self-help and community living skills to severely developmentally disabled and autistic adolescents in preparation for their de-institutionalization. Then, as a case manager for Orange County Regional Center for the Developmentally Disabled, Chantal provided information and resources to families.
Little did Chantal know that years later, these work experiences would prove invaluable when her son was born and eventually diagnosed with autism in Paris, France, where the only treatment on offer was psychoanalysis. Chantal's struggle to find appropriate treatment for her son led them to move to England, where they became one of the first families in the UK to run a Lovaas-type (based on applied behavior analysis) home program. Having been a service provider in California, and then a parent raising her child and dealing with the 'systems' in France, United Kingdom and the United States, gives Chantel a unique and well-rounded perspective w people in this field have
Chantal Sicile-Kira, is an international speaker, author and advocate who has been involved with autism spectrum disorders for over 20 years as both a parent and a professional on both sides of the Atlantic. A bilingual French -American, Chantal raised her autistic son in France, the UK and California. Her experience in the three different countries was the subject of a 22 page article in the French professional journal on education and research for special education, La Nouvelle Revue de l'Adaptation et de la Scolarisation, June 2006, published by INS HEA. A former researcher on BBC documentaries and a line producer on a TV Series in Paris, Chantal currently hosts radio shows in English and in French on Autism One Radio (an internet based radio station available worldwide at www.autismone.org/radio). Chantal also writes for various publications, including an "Ask Chantal" column for The Autism File (www.autismfile.com) and blogs occasionally on the Huffington Post. Chantal's family has been highlighted in the Newsweek cover story "Growing up with Autism' and featured in the MTV documentary 'True Life' series, in "I Have Autism' which was the recipient of a 2008 Voice Award. Chantal's third book Autism Life Skills: From Communication and Safety to Self Esteem and More: 10 Essential Abilities Every Child Deserves and Needs to Learn and first Autism Spectrum Disorders: The Complete Guide to Understanding Autism, Asperger's Syndrome, Pervasive Developmental Disorder, and other ASD's was the recipient of the 2005 Autism Society of America's Outstanding Literary Work of the Year Award, and was nominated for the 2005 PEN / Martha Albrand Award for First Nonfiction. The UK edition was the winner of the 2003 San Diego Book Award for 'Best in Health.' Her second book, Adolescents on the Autism Spectrum, Adolescents on the Autism Spectrum: A Parent's Guide to the Cognitive, Social, Physical, and Transition Needs of Teenagers with Autism Spectrum Disorders was awarded the 2006 San Diego Book Award for "Best in Health/Fitness." Chantal is active in many non-profits, and served on the Taskforce on Transitional Services & Supports reporting to the California Legislative Blue Ribbon Commission on Autism. You can e-mail Chantal at sicilekira@mac.com
All the Ageless Warriors congratulate Chantal on all her accomplishments and we wish her even more success in the coming years!
George Thompson, Class of 71, Award-Winning Artist Emily and George Thompson met when they were both art directors for the advertising department at Bloo
mingdale’s. Both have had successful careers as editorial illustrators, working for numerous nationally known publications. As an award-winning graphic designer, Emily presently works for clients all over the United States. She has exhibited her plein-air and abstract works, which now are part of private collections throughout the Northeast. Today George works primarily as a fine artist; his landscapes and portraits have been recognized for their lush color and brash energy. He runs weekly life drawing and painting sessions and teaches classes and workshops. Learn more about these two artists at www.ethompsonstudio.com and www.georgethompsongallery.com. George doesn't look like he's aged a bit and look at the young wife he has! Some guys have it all !
Mike Caputo Wins Prestigious Wingate Award
Staten Island Advance, April 23, 2009 8:25 p.m. ( photo by Flores)
The PSAL announced it's 2008-09 Wingate Award winners for the winter season on Tuesday and two Staten Islanders were among the 10 honorees. Petrides' Brian Traub and Curtis' Mike Caputo each brought home the prestigious award, which is given to the senior that is "the most accomplished student-athlete" in each sport. Traub won the wrestling Wingate award, after a season in which he helped the Panthers to a second straight PSAL city title. Caputo was honored for boys' swimming after he became a state qualifier for a fourth straight season and led Curtis to the PSAL regular season title.
Congratulations Mike ..A Great Accomplishment!
CONGRATULATIONS VICTORIA!
Curtis' Macaulay named 2009 Jaques Award winner ... third Curtis Gal ...... joins Dot Guerriero in 93' and Clare Guerriero-Mitchell in 88'
Charlie DeBiase Jr., March 27, 2009 10:46 p.m. 
1992-93 season. Guerriero’s sister, Clare Guerriero-Mitchell, was the onlyIn a matter of four years, Victoria Macaulay has gone from basketball novice to Staten Island’s most outstanding player. The four-year varsity player from Curtis has been selected the 25th annual Jaques Award winner, the Advance has learned. This year’s award was announced yesterday by Jaques committee members George Bartell, Fran Mitilieri and Mike Reardon. Macaulay became only the third Curtis player to win the Jaques Award and, ironically, the first since her coach, Dot Guerriero, won it after the other Curtis winner in 1988.
for the rest of the story ........
Curtis H.S. beat Westinghouse H.S. to win the PSAL "A" City Mens Basketball Championship !
Finish Ranked 8th in NY State
CONGRATULATIONS
Rookie Coach Richie Buchkeit 89'
and the Curtis Warriors (25-9)(25
Lets Go To The Video ........
Rear Admiral Wayne E. Justice
Assistant Commandant for Capability
U. S. Coast Guard
Member of the Ageless Warriors and
the Pride of the Class of 73'
Rear Admiral Wayne Justice, pride of Curtis High School, excelled in academics and athletics in the early 70's, today he serves as the Assistant Commandant for Capability for the U.S. Coast Guard.
Rear Admiral Justice is responsible for identifying and providing capabilities, competencies, and capacity; for developing standards for the staffing, training, equipping, sustaining, maintaining, and employing Coast Guard forces to meet mission requirements.
Rear Admiral Justice previously served as the Director of Response Policy (CG-53) where he oversaw the development of operational policy guidance for the search and rescue, law enforcement, defense operations, and incident management missions. Rear Admiral Justice came to Washington after serving as Chief of Staff for the 7th Coast Guard District (D7) in Miami, FL, where he oversaw the performance of 12,000 men and women, as well as 52 cutters, 182 small boats, and 39 aircraft.
His previous staff assignments have included: D7 Chief of Operations; D7 Chief of Law Enforcement; Chief, Office of Programs at USCG HQ; Executive Assistant to Commander, Atlantic Area; and Coast Guard Aide to Presidents Bush and Clinton. Additionally, he served as Aide to the Vice-Commandant, and as the Senior Watch Officer in the Miami Operations Center. His shipboard assignments have included: Commanding Officer of the Coast Guard Cutters MUNRO (WHEC-724), homeported in Alameda, CA;
MOHAWK (WMEC-913), Key West, FL; SHEARWATER (WSES-3), Key West, FL; and CAPE SHOALWATER (WPB-95324), West Palm Beach, FL. Additionally, he served as Executive Officer on DAUNTLESS (WMEC-624) homeported in Miami, FL; and as Deck Watch Officer on HAMILTON (WHEC-715), Boston, MA.
In the course of his career, Rear Admiral Justice’s cutters seized 40 drug smuggling vessels, over 140 tons of marijuana and cocaine, arrested over 135 smugglers, and have interdicted and rescued over 4,500 Haitian, Chinese, Ecuadorian and Cuban migrants.
After graduating Curtis, Rear Admiral Justice received a Bachelors of Science degree in Management from the U.S. Coast Guard Academy in 1977. He received his Masters of Science degree in Human Resource Management with Honors from Nova University in 1983. He received a Masters of Arts degree from the U.S. Naval War College, College of Naval Warfare, in Strategic Studies in 1996.
Wayne's personal awards include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit (three awards), Meritorious Service Medal (three awards), and Coast Guard Commendation Medal (four awards).
Congratulations Wayne on a great career. All the Ageless Warriors send you their best and
thank you for your service to our country.
Curtis' Caputo earns All-American consideration by doleary Tuesday March 10, 2009, 3:08 PM
EAST MEADOW, L.I.. - Mike Caputo of Curtis, who finished seventh place in the New York State Federation Swimming and Diving Championships 500-yard freestyle (4 minutes, 39.97 seconds), earned All-American consideration with his preliminary time (4:38.70) at the Nassau County Aquatic Center. MSIT's Jason Collazo, who took seventh in the one-meter diving (435.25 points), won the meet's sportsmanship award. All races in yards:Continue reading "Curtis' Caputo earns All-American consideration" »
Staten Island harpist returns home for concert Amanda Romano, Class of 04 by Ben Johnson, January 22, 2009 Staten Island Advance
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- It's unlikely classical harpist Amanda Romano will pull a Yo-Yo Ma, famously forgetting her instrument in a New York taxi. "It's about six feet tall and it weighs about 85 pounds," she says, laughing. "I have great arms -- when I go to the gym, I don't have to work on my arms at all."
Romano, 22, who is currently pursuing a master's degree in performance at Boston University, obviously has a great love for playing her giant harp. (Otherwise, why wouldn't she just play oboe?) It's getting the young musician plenty of accolades as an up-and-coming soloist in the classical scene, too: So far, Romano has played with reputable organizations like the New England Philharmonic, Read more ......
St. Peter's Wondolowski wins Barberi scholarship
Charlie DeBiase Jr., February 11, 2009 8:50 p.m.
Take one look at Andrew Wondolowski and you can't help but think that the 6-foot-3, 265-pounder is made to be an interior lineman. And you'd be right. But, a deeper look into the St. Peter's senior's lifestyle reveals so much more, from his outstanding grades, his endless list of extracurricular activities and his status as a "double Eagle." The latter phrase was coined by his mother, Philita, because of his prestigious rank as an Eagle Scout, as well as being a student at St. Peter's. "A complete individual," is the way Dr. Gene Mosiello 62' put it. "Certainly so much more than a football player." For more ...... St. Peter's Andrew Wondolowski looks over his plaque with committee
member Dr. Gene Mosiello. - (Hilton Flores/S I Advance)
Daniel O'Leary, February 04, 2009 1:01 a.m.
Curtis wrestler Alana Rodriguez took home gold in the girls' division at this weekend's Mayor's Cup. The junior, competing at 119 pounds, won both of her matches to take home the top prize. She won the bronze in the 2008 Mayor's Cup. "She is one tough cookie. She comes to practice every day and no matter what we throw at her she is able to handle it," said Curtis coach Chris Alena. "She's great to have on the team." see the rest.. Congratulations Alana
Father Vincent Capodanno, Class of 47
Let us celebrate his life this month as Father Capodanno would have been 80.
Vincent Robert Capodanno was born on February 13th, 1929, in Staten Island, New York. Vince was the last of ten children. Born in Elm Park he graduated Curtis High School and afterwards attended Fordham University for one year before he entered the Maryknoll Missionary seminary in upstate New York in 1949. Vincent struggled throughout his academic life but in 1958 he was ordained a priest and received his bachelor's degree in religious instruction. 
The Maryknolls were well known for sending American missionaries overseas to China and Korea at that time. When communists overran China, many Maryknoll priests and bishops were imprisoned and tortured. With many Cantonese fleeing to Taiwan Father Capodanno's first assignment was with aboriginal Taiwanese in the mountains of Taiwan where he served in a parish and later in a school. After seven years, Father Capodanno returned to the United States for leave and then was assigned to a Maryknoll school in Hong Kong.
Looking for a different challenge, Father Capodanno requested a new assignment as a United States Navy Chaplain serving with the U.S. Marines. After finishing officer candidate's school, Father Capodanno reported to the 7th Marines, in Vietnam, in 1966. When his tour was complete, he requested an extension, served in the naval hospital and then reported to the 5th Marines.
Thanks to Taylor's heroics, Missouri's tournament resume is looking good by Daniel O'Leary Thursday February 12, 2009, 7:24 AM (See ESPN video on Advance website)
Zaire Taylor, a Curtis product, has had a flare for the dramatic over the last 10 days or so, hitting game-winners for Missouri against Texas and Kansas. (AP) On Monday night, Missouri guard Zaire Taylor hit a jump shot with 1.3 seconds left to defeat defending NCAA National Champion Kansas, 62-60. About 12 hours later, he was at the dentist. The junior had to have a wisdom tooth pulled that next morning. Talk about your ups and downs. "If there was any day to go to the dentist and get it done, that was it," said Taylor, an Advance All Star while at Curtis. "Everything felt a little better that day."The shot that beat Kansas -- about a 12-footer from the right wing that hit the left rim, bounced up high before coming straight down -- was Taylor's second game-winner in the No. 17 Tigers' last three games. He canned a shot and was fouled with 5.5 seconds left as Mizzou (21-4) beat then-No. 16 Texas last Wednesday. "The shot against Kansas, honestly, I felt it was going in," said Taylor. "Then, when I saw it bounce up, I thought, okay, we're going into overtime. But it came down and in and I started feeling good again."
PSAL football coaches name all-city selections Staten Island Advance, January 30, 2009
Eleven football players from Staten Island schools were named to the New York City Coaches Association's All-City squad last night. The announcements were made at the association's awards dinner at Stuyvesant HS in Manhattan.
Running back Naykwan Johnson, defensive tackle Dominique Easley and linebacker Aevry Wright of Curtis were honored. Easley and Wright are the only juniors while the remaining nine players are all seniors.
Congratulations Gentleman!
Kevin Thompson's 76' Personal journey has taken him near and far
by Daniel O'Leary/S.I. Advance 1/15/09 Kevin grew up in Park Hill and was very successful coaching track at Cornell and is now on his way to New Orleans ensuing a new career. Advance Story on Alumni
Alumi Spotlight Dec 2008
Karlus Trapp, Jazz Musician, Pride of the Class of 71 and recently proud Dad of Twins !You won't see anything on his website about all the work he is doing taking care of his new twins but since graduating Curtis High School in 1971, Karlus has deveolped a bluesy pop rock mix that has taken him to New Orleans, Jamaica, New York, and all the funky places in between. A well known solo performer in New York City, and a legend on Staten Island, Karlus and his band Magumbo - featuring Karlus as (Lead Guitar & Vocals), Jorgen Kjar and Peter Levin (Keyboards), Tom Curiano (Drums), Nat Seeley (Percussion), and Rubin Austin (Bass) - have shared the stage with some of the industries most accomplished musicians including members of The Paul Schaefer Band and The Rolling Stones touring band. They have also opened for such diverse artists as Tuck and Patti, Luka Bloom, and legends of Folk and Rock Ritchie Havens and Buddy Miles. For five years until its close in 2003, Karlus Trapp and Magumbo was the party band of choice at the popular Hamptons club "The Wild Rose". Creating dance jams and grooving the pretty people every night was the catalyst for some of the songs on their debut CD "WOW" such as "SHE MOVES LIKE THIS" and CHECK HER OUT ". With the release of the mostly self produced "WOW" last summer - Trapp and Magumbo have produced a catchy, rocking, intelligent, joyful, and sexy recording that crosses musical genres with gleeful abandon. From the two chord chant of the reggaeish "CALL THE WOMAN UP" to the introspective funk of "RAINING DEEP INSIDE" to the longing of the acoustic hip hop blues "WISHES ARE FREE" (with its three part harmonies,) Karlus takes himself and the listener for a familiar, but fresh, musical journey that stands up to repeated listening. Raised on the sounds of his mom's gospel music and love of pop music from the 50's and 60's, and his dad's jazz - Karlus' musical odyssey started with a toy banjo at age four and a real piano at five. At eleven years old his first group sang accapella 60's hits, and at seventeen he was mimicking his guitar heroes Hendrix and Clapton in high school bands while exploring the lure of the jam. After dropping out of college at nineteen, his first solo gig was an adrenaline and fear fueled 45 minutes of rocking guitar music at a local college. Today you can usually catch Karlus at Adobe Blues on Staten Island or a host of clubs in the Village. If you are vacationing to Jamacia or New Orleans lookk for Karlus you might just catch him on the road and I am sure he would enjoy seeing folks from back home. All signs point to this musical odyssey continuing well into the future as the band has just started working on a new record. Watch for them. Karlus Trapp and Magumbo are coming your way!
Ben Johnson, Staten Island Advance Nov. 13 ,2008 Snug Harbor Jazz Fest
"In his own words, this veteran local musician is "a blues rock guy." But anyone who's seen Trapp play can tell you that he can be much more, and for his third Jazz Fest performance, he might just play a Cabb Calloway or Fatts Waller song".
Memories of Your Early Days as a Young Staten Islander 12/08
You refer to Manhattan as 'the city.' You call the ferry 'the boat.' You can name all four bridges.
You've gone sledding at LaTourette.
There is only one mall... and it's called 'the mall.'
You know it's Prince's Bay, not Princess Bay.
You haven't swam in the water since the 1960's.
You take pride in being from the 'South Shore' or 'North Shore'. At least one of your relatives or neighbors speaks Italian and has a vegetable garden.
You remember scoring at the CYO in Port Richmond and the St. Peter's Dances You remember where Korvettes and Masters was. 'Majors' department store was BIG deal when it opened in Mariners Harbor.
You know its The Outerbridge Crossing not the Outer Bridge. You take fresh mozzarella and prosciutto for granted. Every year you went to the New Dorp/Curtis game before. Thanksgiving dinner and the victory party that night.even if you didn't go to either school. You know a deli is worthless unless they have Boars Head. You remember Weisglass milk and Weisglass Stadium.
The names Sal Somma and Andy Barbari mean something special. You know the difference between Richmond Rd., Richmond Ave., and Richmond Terrace. You remember the 'orange' home delivery bread trucks from Holterman's bakery. Someone has cut you off on the expressway by riding the shoulder.
You know the diner with the sign 'Open 23 Hours' that Rodney Dangerfield unsuccessfully tried to eat at in the movie Easy Money (...of course it wasn't open!). There are now 20 families living in town homes where there
used to be one family living in a small house with a large yard. The shocks in your car are shot. You remember trying not to slip and slide around on the wicker seats from the old SIRT 'olive colored' trains. You know who the New Dorp 'Centrals' are but you're confused
about who the 'Central Cougars' are...and by the way whet ever happened to the Port Richmond Minstrels? You know that we don't have apartment houses, we have Projects.
You've eaten a burger with fried onions at the Victory Diner at 3:30 am! You have the need to look at the people in the car next to you
when stopped at a red light to see if its someone you know. You have fond memories of Bacci's, Steckman's, Cosmo's, Al Deppes, Demyan's Hofbrau and Tavern On The Green.
New Dorp Lane was simply referred to as 'The Lane' and Richmond Ave was simply 'The Avenue' You still call the Korean War Memorial Parkway the Richmond Parkway You remember life before "The Bridge". You still call going to Belmar, Seaside Heights, Long Beach Island, etc... "going down the shore."
You remember when there were only about four or five traffic lights along Hylan Blvd from Richmond Ave all the way to the Conference House. You call the local paper the ADvance not the adVANCE and remember when it wasn't published on Sunday. You remember 'Rides' on the boardwalk in South Beach.
You remember a horrible mid-air collision where one of the burning airliners fell into Millers Field in New Dorp and the wing of the other plane lande at the Berryhouse ballfield.
Goodhue and Tompkinsville pools brings back fond memories. You remember Wetsons.
You remember movies at The Lane, The Ritz, The Star, The Tompkinsville, The St. George, The Paramount, etc. You also remember the Drive-in Movie theater and the Auction.
You know (as do our friends from Brooklyn) that a chocolate or vanilla egg cream doesn't actually have any egg in it at all. (It's just seltzer, syrup and a little milk!) You remember hanging out at the Composite, Cottage Inn, the Library, Papa Lisi's, Palermo's, the El Dorado, Dorehty's and the Stadium. It was a nickel to ride the bus with your bus pass.
The Ferry was also a nickel each way. you went to the concerts every Wednesday evening in the summer at Silver Lake - and it usually rained. You referred to the King's Arms as "the Arms" and called it the Queen's Legs at least once. Pal Joey's "slice of pizza and a coke" was $0.25! So was Nunzio's on the South Shore!
You know where Travis is . You made Al Deppe's chicken dance for a penny. Remember the Old Mill? You know where the Armory is. You know that the current SI Tech High School ( building ) is the "old" New Dorp High School. You know that the SI Rapid Transit used to be above ground with old fashioned RR crossings and the stations were made of wood. You remember the Good Humor and Bungalow Bar Ice Cream trucks driving down the streets ringing their bells.
Thank you Julia Palermo Brusco ........
Obviously you don't recall any of the partying
you did at "The Point".
Do you ?
Alumni Spotlight Nov 2008
Pete Michaels (Siringano) Class of '76 Professional Comedian/Ventriloquist
A Journey from the Curtis HS stage, to the Big Stage!
Pete first appeared on stage at the tender age of five. His fascination with music, comedy, puppets and ventriloquism also began as a child; with his influences being Edgar Bergen, Paul Winchell and Jimmy Nelson. He continued performing during his Curtis High School years, often playing the musical comedy leads. After Curtis, Pete studied at The American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York and furthered his acting studies with Weist-Barron and studied voice with Robert Marks.
Pete developed his talents further by showcasing his comedy and veniloquism at numerous venues. Pete continued to perform in Comedy Clubs and on Cruise Ships, quickly gaining wide acclaim and was soon a regular at the world famous Apollo Theater with his black puppet pal; Woody D. The duo performed dozens of television shows, concerts and special events at the landmark venue. 
Several television appearances (Showtime At The Apollo, Uptown Comedy Club, Comedy Central) and tours followed. Including opening spots for such luminaries as: Sherman Hemsley, Jamie Foxx, Gabe Kaplan, Pat Cooper, Jerry Vale, Al Martino, Johnny Maestro & The Brooklyn Bridge, The Coasters, The Drifters, Sinbad, David Alan Grier, Mark Curry, Martin Lawrence and many others Pete Michaels is a member of SAG AFTRA. He is also antaccomplished vocalist and musician, serves on the Advisory Board of the Vent Haven Museum and pioneered the first has chaired the International Ventriloquist Convention and pioneered the first Video Home-Study Course on the art of Ventriloquism called; "Video Ventriloquism." He also taught actor Jody Adrien Ventriloquism for the feature film "Dummy," and more recently actress Judith Roberts for the upcoming film "Dead Silence."
Pete was recently called by MTV to teach ventriloquism to Russy Simmons of "Run's House." He is the son of rapper turned Reverend "Run" Simmons of RUN-DMC fame. Pete said " Russy was a very quick learner, as he only had a week before the shoot". The episode titled "Say Hello To My Little Friend" can be seen on MTV and also on their website. It's been a busy past few months for Pete. He opened for Bobby Vinton at the PNC Arts Center in front of 9000 people. Pete was thrilled to open for Vinton and enjoyed
a fantastic performance after his own . You can
Once you check out Pete's website take a look at his new venture a NEW Beatle Tribute Band called "Love Me Do." The band is currently accepting lookings through their website: www.lovemedotribute.com
Pete, thanks for the interview and much more success in the future !
Rondo's August Newsletter 9/08
I would like to thank John Marino and the committee (Julia Palermo Brusco, Pat Chanod, Terry Lowe Marsiglia, Helene Hoffman, Maryanne Ammirato Paccione and Sandra Marino) of the Ageless "Curtis" Warriors for a great day and congratulations to Coach Oliveri. I wanted to include everyone that was there but I couldn't begin to. So I listed you all below. Thank you for attending. John and the committee did a great job. The committee worked tirelessly and it was phenomenal! All things worked great. The Caterer "Simply Elegant" was wonderful; the shrimp were out of this world. They were mouthwateringly delicious. The music by "SoundEffectz" was just right; everyone remembered the old tunes even if they couldn't remember each other or where hey parked their cars. (LOL)
So many faces I missed and I regret I couldn't get to see everyone. Classes of 66-68 were feeling no pain as they limped down memory lane. There will be a class of '68' reunion but as always they are open to others if they wish to attend. That's for another newsletter article. The Ageless Warriors barbeque was held at Sea Bee Park in Ft Wadsworth at the foot of the Verrazano Bridge overlooking the harbor, the narrows and the experience of the great Atlantic Ocean. In the middle was an open aired wooden lien tube to shield us from the elements if we needed it and a Gazebo for the DJ. We didn't need it because it was a great day. The DJ played the entire time. Most of the girls were dancing while the guys sat around watching them (same as in H.S.) I didn't dance for fear I would twist something and find myself in the emergency room. I must say the girls were looking great (WOMEN) for the politically correct.
There were over 100 people and everyone agreed we all had a blast. I wonder if Coach Barberi was alive if he would have attended? People came from all over the country and they needed an excuse to visit the rock and what a wonderful excuse.
There was lots of beer and wine, burgers, London broil, chicken, steaks and jumbo shrimp. Think about it ..Jumbo Shrimp??? Is that like a big midget? Hmmmmm? Anyhow Stapleton was well represented and West Brighton too. You know The Rosebank crowd was there even if they can't spell Ft Wadsworth they still managed to find the place.(Yes Virginia, there is a world outside of Rosebank.) The kids from New Brighton and St George held their place in the sun as well as well as some Tompkinsville folks. It was a love fest (LOL) They weren't sporting long hair anymore but boy I could have made a fortune selling turtle wax to shine up some of those bald spots. Well so much to write so little space. Till we meet again and I hope soon.
Tony Rondinelli, Senior, Ageless Warrior Reporter RndAnth1@aol.com
Coach Andrew Schron Fundraiser Oct. 8, 2008 Most may not know Coach Andrew Schron - Class of 1994, Curtis Football Captain, All City Offensive Tackle and S.I. Advance All Star, who went on to Hofstra University. Andrew is the son-in-law of Glen Payne who many of you remember from Stapleton. Glen married Marie Falco, who I am sure many of you also remember. Their daughter Shannon is married to Andrew. Andrew, as his father-in-law at Wagner College, has contributed greatly towards the success of the Curtis football program and the development of many student athletes over the last ten years at Curtis. Few have known that Andrew was diagnosed with non-Hodgkins Lymphoma in 2003. He has battled it for 5 years and hasn't really missed a down. He is tough. He comes from "good stock". Trust me on this one. Later this month, Andrew must undergo a bone marrow transplant. As a result he will not be able to work again for quite some time. Supporting himself, along with his wife Shannon will be tougher than ever.
Successful Golf Outing ! 10/1/08
Our congratulations to Coach Rich Buckheit and his whole staff. Great job on the Golf Outing and the dinner that followed at LiGreci's Staaten . All their preparation in securing sponsors, prizes and plenty of great food and drink was blessed with great weather for golf. The golf course and the dinning room was filled with avid golfers from local corporations, alumni, friends and family of the coaching staff and players.After dinner was served Coach Buckheit thanked all the Sponsors for their generous contributions and all who attended and helped make this event so successful. Coach Buckheit promised next year the event would even be better. Those who couldn't make it missed a real good time. The Ageless Warriors were proud to participate in such a well organized event and certainly will be happy to help out again next year.
Staten Island Advance August 12, 2008 by Charlie DeBiase Jr.
" Once a Warrior Always a Warrior " The Ageless Warriors, a group of Curtis HS alumni who graduated from 1965-1980 and their friends, have only been in existence for less than a year, but they sure know how to have a good time.
Last fall, the group got together 23 former Warrior football players at a restaurant to trade old war stories while enjoying dinner and a few drinks.
On July 26, the number increased to 110 and, according to committee member John Marino, a good time was had by all during a barbecue at Fort Wadsworth's Seabee Park. "Considering it's been almost 40 years since some of us graduated, the committee felt the event was a big success," said Marino, who was joined on the committee by Julia Brusco, Pat Chanod, Terry Marsiglia, Maryanne Paccione, Helene Hoffman, Sandra Fiore and Tony Rondinelli. "The venue for the barbecue was a great way to get back in touch with everyone." Marino said the Ageless Warriors, along with City Councilman Michael McMahon, presented retired Curtis varsity football coach Fred Olivieri with a proclamation from the City Council. In introducing McMahon, Marino said he thanked the councilman for being a great friend to Curtis HS over the years.
In presenting Olivieri with the proclamation, McMahon declared Saturday, July 26 "Coach Fred Olivieri Day." "Coach Olivieri was not only recognized for his football contributions, but also his excellence in the classroom (as a teacher)," said Marino. "It was pretty cool." The Ageless Warriors also recognized Maureen Marino for being selected "Principal of the Year" in Brooklyn and wished coach Gene Smith good luck with his new head coaching position in Kissimmee, Fla. The Warriors also announced their new Web site www.theagelesswarriors.com is still under construction, but will be the place to keep in touch and find out about future events.
"We'd also like to thank all the vendors and sponsors of the event, including Elegant Caterers, SoundEffectz' great music and gifts from the St. George Theater, Dosi Cafe and the Staten Island Yankees," concluded Marino. "And a special thanks to Rich Marino and his buddies at Possibili Tees, who provided such great Warrior t-shirts.