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Veronica E. Connor Middle School
News Web Page
2004
Veronica E. Connor Middle School Website

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Principal
Mr. Bruce F. Benson

Connor Middle School To Present Musical, "Snoopy" - 2004
The Veronica Connor Middle School 2005 musical, Snoopy, will be performed at 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 22, 2005 in the Grand Island High School Auditorium. Tickets are $5.00.

Connor Middle School Honor Roll - December 2004
The following Veronica E. Connor Middle School students were named to the honor roll for the first quarter, 2004-2005 school year:
High Honor Roll
Grade 6: Kailie Baldes, Dale Baran, Nicholas Battaglia, Christopher Boulden, Jason Chadwick, Bethany Cinelli, Nicholas Colao, Aliena Cook, Sara Diletti, Alan Endres, Christopher Ernst, Julie Hasselbeck, Emma Henderson, Matthew Killian, Lauren Kissel, Ryan McCarthy, Ariana Mendel, Kristiana Montaldi, Marina Ortiz, Jessica Osvath, Emily Pease, Christopher Rose, Kathleen Rustowicz, Evan Shaw, Benjamin Sherman, Rebecca Sturniolo, Sena Tamaklo, Eugenia Taylor, Patrick Thompson, Sara Victor, Stephen Vitello, Danielle Wegrzyn, Patrick Worbs, Alyssa Yaeger, Jessica Yarnes
Grade 7: Elisabeth Asbach, Kimberly Asbach, Stephanie Aughey, Emily Bolles, Steven Boyle, Luke Burkhart, Alexandra Buscaglia, Benjamin Certo, Michael Chauby, III, Brittany Cieri, Sarah Dolan, Jordan Dudish, Maria Edel, Kearney Erhard, Hillary Figler, Lauren Fonte, Alexander Fry, Mary George, Sara Grana, Jill Greinert, Maria Guidotti, Susan Head, Tara Hook, Maxwell Kilb, Joel Klock, Lauren Kucharski, Brian Kulak, Stephen LoPresti, Jonathan LoTempio, Jr, Liam McCabe, Megan McInerney, Lianne Montagna, Christopher Moody, Alexandra Morell, Andrea Nicolia, Erika Osberg, Ryan Osvath, Sarah Palazza, Breanne Rafferty, Michael Rayhill, Nicholas Russo, Ashley Rutland, Kaitie Samland, Christopher Stessing, Scott Suszczynski, Jameela Syed, Caitlin Taylor, Samantha Tilkins, Maria Todaro, Maritina Tsembelis
Grade 8: Allison Boron, Mary Grace Egloff, Julia Figliotti, Ashley Fike, Rachel Gaydosh, Kaitlyn Hardison, Taylor Jackson, Taylor Kaufman, Alexandra King, Charlene Meyer, Alexander Richter, Jennifer Schaber, Sheree Tamaklo, Kelly Williams, Amanda Zernickel
Honor Roll
Grade 6: Karl Albrecht, Shannon Becker, Scott Bennett, Alexandria Bleich, Kathryn Boutet, Brian Brink, Michael Campanella, Brooke Chamberlain, Amandip Cheema, Amanda Cinelli, Nicolette Corrao, Samuel Cummings, Elizabeth Davis, Austin Dee, Brooke DeMarco, Alexandra DeMita, Kaleigh Deuser, Robert Dickinson, Sara Dzielski, Thomas Dzielski, Anna Ferrante, Sara Fiedler, Korin Frantz, Edward Gauthier, Jr., Joshua Gebhart, Larissa Gelyon, Christian Gibson, Amanda Heftka, Kyle Held, Steven Henderson, Tyler Hinaman, Ava Jackson, Emily Jones, Kyle Keifman, Alex Killian, Taylor Kozlowski, Andrew Kuch, Justin Lee, Kelly Lorence, Bradley Ludwig, Lucas Madia, Julia Manuszewski, Christina Martinez, Jennie McCoy, Christopher Meyer, Shelbi Milkas, Shannon Moody, James Mysliwiec, Kevin Neary, Katie Oursler, Michael Paasch, Alaina Pariso, Paige Rockwood, Miranda Santa Lucia, Rachel Schauger, Amy Schooping, Julie Schopp, Samuel Serra, Aren Shanor, Christopher Shemik, Allison Stewart, Megan Tates, Benjamin Tomkins, Tyler Wunsch, Andrew Yockey, Megan Young
Grade 7: Alyssa Accardo, Kaitlyn Affuso, Jonathon Anderson, Stephanie Aronica, Adam Asbach, Catherine Aughey, Jeffrey Bellanca, Katelyn Belter, Lisa Braun, Eric Breier, Brett Brennan, Mary Elizabeth Britten, Nathan Busch, Amanda Camizzi, Kenneth Cerrillo, Krystal Chapin, Kathryn Cobello, Joseph Collins, Courtney Cox, Samantha Darby, Renee' Doermer, Kara Dudley, Marwa Eltagouri, Nicholas Ernst, Alexander Fabiilli, Joseph Fischer, Victoria Fleming, Kate Garten, Christopher Gibney, Krista Glownia, Chelsea Hall, Kelly Hooven, Krystin Hoppel, Timothy Howley, Emily Incorvia, Nicholas Kelly, Zachary Kelly, Kristy Knickerbocker, Savanna Kustra, Jeffrey LaRiviere, Joshua Little, Elizabeth Lorence, Daniel Major, Aman Mattu, Keran Mattu, Thomas McDonnell, Nicole McGuire, Sara McNulty, Michael Montaldi, II, Jared Northrup, Courtney Papaj, Deanna Paternostro, Jessica Randhawa, Alexander Re, Elizabeth Restey, Spencer Seese, Taylor Segarra, Keith Skelly, Jamie Sobieski, Michael Sperrazza, Kaitlin Symula, Patricia VeRost, Kristin Wegrzyn, Eric Weigold, Aria Yanicki, Sarah Young
Grade 8: Kelli Adreon, Natalie Agnello, Alexa Amato, Robert Amsdill, Sarah Bastian, Lee Becker, Amy Bidell, Maria Buyer, Simarjot Cheema, Kyle Clayton, Dustin Coryn, Kaitlyn Czerwonka, Darren DelSignore, Michaeline Dera, Amber Duda, Shane Eddy, Joseph Edel, Jenna Fanara, Melissa Fargino, Kelsey Foote, Samantha Forysinski, Angela Fusco, Leah Gangloff, Samantha Gieselman, Zachary Gilbert, Andrew Ginsburg, Meghan Haley, Scott Holler, Jenna Hutzler, Kaitlin Incorvia, Joshua Kahn, Michael Karpie, Haroon Khawar, Erin Krieger, Charles Lavallee, Timothy Lewis, Jacqueline Maitner, Matthew Major, Kelsey Mash, James McDonnell, David McMichael, Alexander Neutz, Genna Nuchereno, Shawn O'Rourke, Joseph Oliverio, Marvin Pawlowski, III, Susan Pioli, Christopher Podlucky, Joshua Prygon, Sierra Seese, Nicole Serra, Timothy Shantler, Kayleigh Shepard, Kuljit Singh, Eric Siwicki, Alyssa Spada, Robert Tates, Emily Thompson, Jordan Tripi, Nicholas Vitello, Lauren Whitney, Christopher Wilczek, Brianna Wojnar, Joseph Zarbo, Tyler Zikuski

Connor Middle School Merit Roll - December 2004
The following Veronica E. Connor Middle School students were named to the merit roll for the first quarter, 2004-2005 school year:
Grade 6: Danya Abdellatif, Matthew Arida, Marissa Arki, Robert Arsenault, Nathanial Benoit, Kathleen Brady, Dallas Broady, Justine Call, Andre Certo, Tyler Ciffa, Andrew Dale, Ian Danahy, Sean Donovan, Zerena Drake, Samantha Ducette, Chelsea Fairbairn, Geoff Federspiel, Carson Filips, Patrick Gallagher, Carmela Gentile, Heather Graff, Molly Higgins, Ryan Jackson, Mark Jurga, Nicholas Kellner, Krysta Kinmartin, Wesley Link, Melina Lombardo, Jaime Magaris, Nicholas Masiello, Chelsea Mazurkiewicz, Jaclyn Nusstein, Jonathan Oyer, Alexzander Prine, Jeremy Rockwood, Nicholas Rossi, Chelsea Rupert, Kayla Schmidt, Michael Seaman, Rachel Spiker, Sarah Stewart, Ambria Tim, Sarah Webb, Courtney Weiser
Grade 7: Sara Ali, Richard Amantia, II, Patrick Antonelli, Alissa Bailey, Conrad Baker, Benjamin Bakula, Kolby Banker, Malorie Bennett, Jovana Bichler, Patrick Brady, Anthony Bruno, Sean Burke, Victoria Cacciatore, Jason Caldwell, David Campuzano, Julianna Capizzi, Kaitlyn Chapin, Seana Chirico, Joseph Connors, James Cooke, Anne Cooper, Anthony Darpino, Kayla Deuble, Brett Dlugosz, Michelle Fanara, Rahsanica Ford, Christopher Franklin, Amy Grenke, Korey Hagen, Eric Harnden, James Heberlein, Shaughn Irving, Courtney Justus, Raman Kaur, Jacob Killian, Timothy Krecisz, Steven Lillian, Kori Loder, Hayley Metro, Dylan Rau, Robert Ross, Anthony Russell, Jonathon Seaman, Zaeem Shah, Margaret Shonitsky, Vincent Spada, Jennifer Spencer, Kelly Stark, Rachel Starr, Rachel Surdi, Zakiyyah Wilbert, Sara Wilczek, Nicole Winter, Molly Wynne, Rebecca Zimmerman, Travis Zukic
Grade 8: Zachary Adams, Joseph Aladeen, Mark Argy, Kaitlin Arida, Anthony Aughtmon, Sean Benninger, Courtnnie Booker, David Britten, Conor Bryan, Brianna Busch, Olivia Chopra, Aaron D'Angelo, Jason Davis, Korey DiMatteo, Shannon Farmer, Gregory Feathers, Brianna Fetzer, Christopher Fiels, Andrew Fix, Jordan Gibson, Krista Goff, Heather Goris, Kaitlin Hager, Christopher Harper, Adam Helman, William Henderson, Michael Hillock, Craig Hooper, Alexandra Imperi, Jatinder Kaur, Brittany Keel, Joseph Khreis, Benjamin Kose, LeAnna Kozlowski, Benjamin Kuch, Tristen LaBarre, Beau Lapp, Nicholas Lovetro, Carolina Luciani, Matthew Ludwig, Mia Magliazzo, Eric Manuszewski, Christian Martinez, Ashley McCord, Daniel McKenna, Andrew Mrzygut, Nicholas Muoio, Davis Nelson, John Osberg, Destiny Perez, Craig Perno, Travis Perno, Sarah Pici, Scott Quider, Kathryn Raiser, Lance Robinson, Michael Rustowicz, Robert Rutland, III, Kayla Salonek, Victoria Schaber, Michael Scheid, Anthony Schojan, Carla Schory, Lee Schuster, Alexander Seyler, Carly Snyder, Sara Stenzel, Joshua Stoddard, Jeffrey Szczepaniak, Evan Tsembelis, Matthew Violanti, Megan Wagner, Allison Walker, Alexandra Whitford, Shaun Winter, Aaron Wood, Arlene Wunsch

Connor Middle School December Concert - 2004
The Connor Middle School December Concert by the student music groups will be held in the Grand Island High School Auditorium at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, December 15, 2004.

Middle School Parent/Teacher Conferences Scheduled - 2004
Parent/Teacher Conferences will be held on Monday, November 29, 2004 in the Connor Middle School from noon to 2:45 p.m. and from 4–7 p.m. There will be no school for students on this day.

Middle School Students Take Part In Mock Trial Program - November 2004

Jodi Robinson story and photos - Click photos for larger view
Connor Middle School seventh graders - Team D are holding a mock trial this week based on "The Outsiders" by Susan Eloise Hinton. Social Studies teacher James Randles started the mock trial concept seven years ago as a means of teaching the students the judicial process. At that time Mr. Randles based the trial on a made-up delinquency case. Then two years later along came English teacher Lori Ohrum who thought it was a great idea and suggested using "The Outsiders" novel as a trial example.
The social studies students play the parts of the defense attorneys, the prosecutors, judge and bailiff. The English students are the jurors and the news media. The students are graded on the knowledge they bring to the trial process and of the story. Essays are written by all participants regarding the parts they have played.

International Night Celebrated At Middle School - November 2004

Nathan Cook Photos - Click photo for larger view.
Connor Middle School students prepared and served a wide variety of ethnic food, which was enjoyed by their families and friends, at this year’s International Night. The students showcased various cultures through games, arts and crafts, a Chinese auction, music and dance.

Connor Middle School Music Groups Play For Full House - 2004
By Teddy Linenfelser
   Students and faculty taking part in the Connor Middle School Fall Concert in the High School Auditorium Tuesday, November 9, 2004 received numerous ovations throughout the evening of band, orchestra and choral music. Empty seats were scarce and the audience was enthusiastic throughout.
   Mr. Clarke Elliot, just as enthusiastic as the audience, directed the 7th and 8th Grade Jazz Ensemble. Kearney Erhard's trumpet solo during "Purple Haze" drew audience appreciation and deservingly so. The Jazz Ensemble's "Can't Buy Me Love" was probably the favorite of the concert and the students gave an excellent performance highlighted by topnotch saxophone solos by Michael Rayhill, Steven Boyle, Ben Certo, Allison Boron and Bobby Rutland.
   Mr. Elliott also directed his Connor Middle 7th & 8th Grade Concert Band, completely and well rehearsed, with much attention paid to their professional appearance at the start and finish of each number. The percussionists and the overall blend of sections was superb during the "Fantasticks" number.
   Listening to these concerts of lower grade students leaves little doubt as to how Deb Remson's high school orchestra constantly comes off sounding like a philharmonic. She seems to have a knack of bringing her young musicians to the height of their potential. The orchestra members were excellent in the "Swingin' Strings" number, making the smoothest changes during the piece. The viola and cello sections led by string bass player Jessica Osvath gave fantastic balance to the violinists.
   The 93-member Connor Middle School Eighth Grade Choir gave a good performance during their three songs directed by Mrs. Annalea Masiello. The choral students sang Tue, Tue; My Love and I and Gloria Deo!
   Ending the program was the middle school sixth grade band under the direction of Mr. Alexander Hughes. All sections contributed to the enjoyable "Star Wars (Main Theme)" with the reed section giving an outstanding performance for such young musicians.

Connor Middle School Fall Concert - 2004
A Connor Middle School Fall Concert by the student music groups will be held in the Grand Island High School Auditorium at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, November 9, 2004.
The concert will featured the Jazz Band and 7-8th Grade Band under the direction of Mr. Clarke Elliot, the 6th Grade Band under the direction of Alex Hughes, the Connor Middle School Orchestra under the direction of Miss Deb Remson and the 8th Grade Chorus directed by Mrs. Annalea Masiello.

International Night At Connor Middle School - Public Welcome - 2004

Kathleen Ganz Photo (2003) - Click photo for larger view.
The annual Connor Middle School International Night is scheduled for Friday, November 5, 2004 from 6-9 p.m. Admission is free and the public is welcome.
There will be a variety of activities for everyone to enjoy and participate in. These will include ethnic dances and musical groups performing. Those attending will have an opportunity to learn an international dance, or watch a cultural demonstration in the Middle School gym. Crafts from around the world will be taught in the Little Theater. International foods may be sampled in the cafeteria for a small cost. School clubs and merchants will be selling their handicrafts and international theme baskets will be raffled during the evening. Students are encouraged to wear ethnic costumes, as there will be a costume contest.

Middle School Scholastic Book Fair - 2004
Veronica Connor Middle School will host a Scholastic Book Fair October 26-28, 2004. The family event will be held from 6:30-8:30 p.m. on October 26. Baked goods and refreshments will also be for sale. Contact Heather Figler, 773-4722 or Vicki Harnden, 773-3138 for more information.

Connor Middle School 8th Grade Moving-Up Ceremony - 2004

8th grade graduate Anthony Piccolo entering the auditorium - Michael Dinsmore (right) receiving his certificate from Principal Bruce Benson.

(left) Faculty member Mrs. Patricia Myers looks on as Alicia Sommer receiving her certificate; Student Council Representative Bailey DeGlopper leading the pledge of allegiance; Guest Speaker Mike Schopp
Diane Hassan Photos - Click photos for larger view.
   Veronica E. Connor Middle School Moving-up Ceremonies took place in the Grand Island High School auditorium Tuesday evening, June 22, 2004.
   The processional of the 8th grade Class of 2004, numbering 236, entered the auditorium while the middle school orchestra played Pomp And Circumstance. Guest speaker was GIHS Class of 1989 graduate and Talk Show Host of WGR Sportsradio Mike Schopp. Principal Bruce Benson, assisted by faculty member Mrs. Patricia Myers, made the presentation of the moving-up certificates, and numerous awards were presented as the "full house" applauded the honorees during the extremely warm night.

Middle School Teacher Named "Educator of the Week" - 2004
    Veronica E. Connor Middle School teacher Julie Slowinski has been honored as an “Educator of the Week.” The award is sponsored by Channel 2 and the New York Lottery. Thirty teachers are chosen throughout the school year for the honor, based on nominations from students and the school communities. A committee reads through the letters and makes the selections.
   In choosing the 7th and 8th grade math teacher for the honor, Channel 2 personnel said, “Julie Slowinski is the reason kids are excited to get back from lunch. And while 7th graders rarely look forward to math class, they have a teacher who has an infectious energy, exciting lessons, and funky sayings. This combination of learning and fun all adds up to our Educator of the Week.”
   The Middle School teacher and her husband joined the other 29 Educators of the Week at the annual luncheon at the Park Country Club in Williamsville. “Besides the delicious food, we were treated with an ‘Educator of the Week’ plaque, coffee mug and copy of our 30-second TV commercial video,” Slowinski said.
   She has just completed her third year at Connor Middle School. She began her teaching career in 1993 taking part time and long term sub positions in local private and public schools. “This award was a wonderful honor, but I know of several of my colleagues who are just as, or even more deserving,” Slowinski said. “I have been very blessed to work with such an awesome faculty and administration. I love being a part of the Grand Island community!

Middle School Student Council Raises $1418.55 For "Meaghan's Miracle" - June 2004
   Veronica E. Connor Middle School Student Council members held a fundraiser for the "Meaghan's Miracle" fund and collected $1418.55 from students and faculty.
   The fundraiser consisted of three containers placed in the cafeteria, each representing a grade level (6th, 7th and 8th). Pennies and paper (bills) were deposited in the students' respective grade containers, but if a silver coin was deposited into the other grades' container, it was deducted from their individual total. The students really got into the spirit of this event - depositing 13,140 pennies, 907 nickels, 1434 dimes and 664 quarters by the end of the contest! The 7th grade container had the greatest amount of money, but all the students came out victorious, because the money was donated to this worthy cause. Congratulations to everyone who contributed!
   Student Council Advisors Mrs. Patty Myers and Mrs. Kathleen Saunders who assisted, thank Sara Kurpiewski, an 8th grade student, who headed the event. Eighth grade math teacher Mr. William Brodie came up with the idea for "Pennies and Paper Are Positive, Silver Is Negative!"

Connor Middle School PTA Officers - 2004

Click photo for a larger view.
   Connor Middle School PTA officers installed in the Buffalo Launch Club May 25, 2004 are (left) 2nd Vice President Mary Jane Fonte, President Donnette Rayhill, Corresponding Secretary Karen Fischer, Treasurer Kati Posch, 1st Vice President Kathy Chadwick, Council Delegate Vicki Harnden, and 2nd Vice President Amy Garten. Officers missing from the photo are 1st Vice President Mary Howard, Recording Secretary Maria Shory and Council Delegate Weltha Rutland.

Aboriginal Art From Connor Middle School - 2004

Jodi Robinson Photos - Click photos for larger view
   Connor Middle School's Display at the District Art Show is Australian Aborigine inspired. The district wide theme this year is "Animals In Art." The grade eight students made ceramic tiles. They have designed totem animals and completed them in the "X-Ray style." After completing the animals, they adorned their tiles with Aboriginal icons.
   The seventh grade art students made animals in clay.

Middle School Singcopations Receive Gold Rating - May 2004
May 6, 2004 . . .Veronica Connor Middle School Music Department's The Singcopations received a Gold Rating in a Level 3 competition this past week. This is the first time in Middle School history that a vocal group has participated in NYSSMA. The students are under the direction of Annalea J. Masiello.

Middle School Honor Roll - April 2004
The following Veronica E. Connor Middle School students were named to the honor roll for the third quarter, 2003-2004 school year:
High Honor Roll
Grade 6: Catherine Aughey, Stephanie Aughey, Emily Bolles, Steven Boyle, Luke Burkhart, Alexandra Buscaglia, Benjamin Certo, Michael Chauby, III, Brittany Cieri, Sarah Dolan, Jordan Dudish, Kara Dudley, Maria Edel, Marwa Eltagouri, Kearney Erhard, Nicholas Ernst, Hillary Figler, Joseph Fischer, Lauren Fonte, Maria Guidotti, Susan Head, Tara Hook, Kelly Hooven, Krystin Hoppel, Maxwell Kilb, Joel Klock, Lauren Kucharski, Jeffrey LaRiviere, Stephen LoPresti, Jonathan LoTempio Jr., Daniel Major, Keran Mattu, Liam McCabe, Megan McInerney, Lianne Montagna, Christopher Moody, Alexandra Morell, Andrea Nicolia, Erika Osberg, Ryan Osvath, Sarah Palazza, Breanne Rafferty, Michael Rayhill, Nicholas Russo, Christopher Stessing, Scott Suszczynski, Jameela Syed, Caitlin Taylor, Samantha Tilkins, Maria Todaro
Grade 7: Zachary Adams, Allison Boron, Simarjot Cheema, Amber Duda, Shane Eddy, Mary Grace Egloff, Julia Figliotti, Leah Gangloff, Rachel Gaydosh, Samantha Gieselman, Taylor Jackson, Michael Karpie, Jacqueline Maitner, Matthew Major, Kelsey Mash, Joseph Oliverio, Sierra Seese, Kuljit Singh, Sheree Tamaklo, Nicholas Vitello, Kelly Williams
Grade 8: David Benko, Cassandra Coffey, Bailey DeGlopper, Jacob Ferrante, John Gannon, Cathryn Hilliard, Amber Hultgren, Amanda Jaeger, Samuel Kilb, Ashley Koerntgen, Kaitlyn Little, Samuel LoPresti, Ashley Mazurkiewicz, Lindsey Miller, Danielle Nash, Jessica Sturniolo, Shana Wierchowski
Honor Roll
Grade 6: Alyssa Accardo, Kaitlyn Affuso, Jonathon Anderson, Adam Asbach, Elisabeth Asbach, Kimberly Asbach, Jeffrey Bellanca, Katelyn Belter, Jovana Bichler, Patrick Brady, Lisa Braun, Brett Brennan, Mary Elizabeth Britten, Nathan Busch, Amanda Camizzi, Kenneth Cerrillo, Kathryn Cobello, Joseph Collins, Courtney Cox, Samantha Darby, Anthony Darpino, Victoria Fleming, Rahsanica Ford, Alexander Fry, Mary George, Krista Glownia, Sara Grana, Jill Greinert, James Heberlein, Timothy Howley, Emily Incorvia, Courtney Justus, Raman Kaur, Nicholas Kelly, Kristy Knickerbocker, Brian Kulak, Savanna Kustra, Elizabeth Lorence, Aman Mattu, Nicole McGuire, Michael Montaldi, II, Deanna Paternostro, Jessica Randhawa, Alexander Re, Elizabeth Restey, Ashley Rutland, Kaitie Samland, Jonathon Seaman, Spencer Seese, Taylor Segarra, Keith Skelly, Jamie Sobieski, Michael Sperrazza, Kelly Stark, Rachel Starr, Timothy Symington, Patricia VeRost, Kristin Wegrzyn, Eric Weigold, Sarah Young
Grade 7: Kaitlin Arida, Lee Becker, Amy Bidell, Kyle Clayton, Kaitlyn Czerwonka, Darren DelSignore, Michaeline Dera, Korey DiMatteo, Joseph Edel, Melissa Fargino, Kelsey Foote, Zachary Gilbert, Andrew Ginsburg, Krista Goff, Kaitlin Hager, Meghan Haley, Kaitlyn Hardison, Christopher Harper, Scott Holler, Craig Hooper, Jenna Hutzler, Joshua Kahn, Taylor Kaufman, Alexandra King, Benjamin Kose, Erin Krieger, Benjamin Kuch, Beau Lapp, Drew Lazelle, Timothy Lewis, Nicholas Lovetro, Carolina Luciani, Matthew Ludwig, Nicholas Marmino, David McMichael, Charlene Meyer, Alexander Neutz, Genna Nuchereno, John Osberg, Destiny Perez, Sarah Pici, Susan Pioli, Christopher Podlucky, Joshua Prygon, Alexander Richter, Lance Robinson, Michael Rustowicz, Jennifer Schaber, Nicole Serra, Kayleigh Shepard, Eric Siwicki, Carly Snyder, Alyssa Spada, Jeffrey Szczepaniak, Jordan Tripi, Kaitlyn Wardour, Christopher Wilczek, Brianna Wojnar, Amanda Zernickel
Grade 8: Joseph Amsdill, Giovanna Andolina, Alma Aponte, Jessica Bakkila, Tyler Baldes, Chelsea Baran, Alexander Battaglia, Teighlor Bennett, Ellen Betterson, Jasmeet Brar, Lauren Brindisi, Kahla Cerrillo, Kelly Cich, Jennifer Ciechoski, Jaclyn Coe, Taylor Cool, Theresa Covatto, Shannon Curry, Anthony Daubney, Alexandra Davis, Tiffani Dickinson, Rebecca Donnelly, Caitlyn Driscoll, Sean Duff, Brandon Fetzer, Marc Gerfin, Ashley Green, Ryan Hagen, Kelcie Hanaka, Jennifer Huber, Alexander Hultgren, Joshua Kaplan, Richard Karpie, Ryan Killian, Matthew Klock, Matthew Little, Eric Madia, Adam Masse', Stephen Mathes Jr., Lauren McGowan, Jeremy Meyer, Nichole Nash, William Newsome, Jessica Oyer, Jordan Paolucci, Michelle Paternostro, Alexandra Peters, Anthony Poupalos, Matthew Riley, Carrie Schooping, Riley Sexsmith, James Sica, Brandi Skill, Theodore Slipko III, Kimberly Snell, Rebecca Sobol, Alicia Sommer, Nicholas Taylor, Scott Thompson Jr., Jordan Toth, Nicholas Vallina, Roman Velletta, Alexander Webb, Alexandra Weiser, Kacey White, Noah Yanicki

Middle School Merit Roll - April 2004
The following Veronica E. Connor Middle School students were named to the merit roll for the third quarter, 2003-2004 school year:
Grade 6: Richard Amantia, II, Patrick Antonelli, Stephanie Aronica, Alissa Bailey, Conrad Baker, Benjamin Bakula, Kelsey Bettinger, Eric Breier, Anthony Bruno, Sean Burke, Julianna Capizzi, Kaitlyn Chapin, Krystal Chapin, Seana Chirico, Harold Clark, Ian Conner, James Cooke, Brett Dlugosz, Renee' Doermer, Alexander Fabiilli, Michelle Fanara, Christopher Franklin, Kate Garten, Christopher Gibney, Samantha Green, Amy Grenke, Korey Hagen, Chelsea Hall, Shaughn Irving, Zachary Kelly, Timothy Krecisz, Steven Lillian, Kori Loder, Scott Ludwig, Michael Lydle, Daniel Mathes, Thomas McDonnell, Sara McNulty, Hayley Metro, Angelo Mole, Christopher Mornelli, Jared Northrup, Courtney Papaj, Michael Phillips, Tony Rains, Ian Rogers, Robert Ross, Anthony Russell, Robert Schiffhauer, Margaret Shonitsky, Allison Snell, Paige Speidel, Kasey Sumner, Rachel Surdi, Kaitlin Symula, Sara Wilczek, Nicole Winter, Molly Wynne, Aria Yanicki, Rebecca Zimmerman, Travis Zukic
Grade 7: Kelli Adreon, Natalie Agnello, Joseph Aladeen, Alexa Amato, Robert Amsdill, Sarah Bastian, Sean Benninger, David Britten, Danielle Bush, Maria Buyer, Olivia Chopra, Aaron D'Angelo, Jason Davis, Nicolette Fadel, Jenna Fanara, Shannon Farmer, Gregory Feathers, Ashley Fike, Samantha Forysinski, Angela Fusco, Amanda Geis, Adam Helman, Cody Hogrewe, Alexandra Imperi, Kaitlin Incorvia, Brittany Keel, Charles Lavallee, Eric Manuszewski, Christian Martinez, Ashley McCord, James McDonnell, Daniel McKenna, Nicholas Muoio, Davis Nelson, Katie Nordvik, Shawn O'Rourke, Brian O’Keefe, Marvin Pawlowski III, Travis Perno, Lauren Priest, Joseph Romano, Michele Rossi, Robert Rutland III, Kayla Salonek, Victoria Schaber, Michael Scheid, Carla Schory, Timothy Shantler, Sara Stenzel, Joshua Stoddard, Emily Thompson, Charanjot Tiwana, Ryan Vertino, Matthew Violanti, Allison Walker, Alexandra Whitford, Lauren Whitney, Andrea Wilson, Shaun Winter, Arlene Wunsch, Joseph Zarbo, Tyler Zikuski
Grade 8: Steven Accardo, Nicholas Argy, Alexandra Armusewicz, Danielle Asbach, Jared Billica, Kelsey Borgeson, Lindsey Boyle, Lauren Braun, Casey Carminati, Jeremy Chopra, Matthew Collins, Ashley Curry, Daniel DeMarco, Bryan Deuble, Casey Deuser, Jessica Doyle, Christopher Eley, Adam Funk, Thomas Gebhard, Shari Geblein, Carly Hall, Nicholas Hall, Michael Heftka, Matthew Helf, Lea Hinaman, Ryan Hoople, Matthew Huber, Sean Joseph, Reid Kashmanian, Todd Kunze, Jeremy LaBarre, Pasquale Lemme, III, Shawna Long, Kurt Makowski, Edward Mallwitz, Nicholas Martinez, Courtney McCoy, Ashley McGuire, Craig Meaney, Walaine Melendez, Amber Meyers, Christian Nestark, Sara Orsolits, Brittany Papaj, Lauren Quattrini, Caitlin Radecki, Jordan Ricigliano, Scott Ross, Patrick Sexton, Aleem Shariff, Nicole Stickl, Melanie Switalski, Michael Symington, Joseph Tanbakuchi, Kristin Toellner, Patrick Winters, Matthew Zarbo

Medieval Costume Day At Connor Middle - 2004

Left photo: Anthony Coraddo, Jed Herberlein, Kristen Wegrzyn, Becca Zimmerman, Kelsey Bettinger, Hailey Wiles.
Jodi Hayes Robinson Photos - Click photos for larger view
   Connor Middle School's annual Medieval Costume Day, Friday, March 12, 2004 began at 9:45 a.m. as the students arrived by class dressed in their finery. The students entered the high school auditorium and seated themselves by titles such as kings, queens, noblemen, noblewomen, princesses, peasants, executioners, monks, nuns, knights, Robin Hood, and jesters. For the sixth grade students, this annual project includes the research of a medieval topic, the writing of a paper, an art project, and giving an oral presentation. The students look forward to the completion of the project and the day of Medieval dancing, music, beautiful costumes and the parade.

"Bye, Bye, Birdie" Is Crowd Pleaser - March 2004
   This year's Connor Middle School musical was "Bye Bye Birdie," performed by the students on Tuesday evening, March 9, 2004 in the Grand Island High School auditorium. As usual, the Middle School play drew a near full house. The event was performed through a generous donation from the Grand Island Foundation.
   The leads were played by Robert Rutland as Albert, Rebecca Donnelly as Rosie, Alexandra Davis as Mae Peterson, Anthony Poupolos as Conrad Birdie, Allison Boron as Kim and TJ Slipko as Mr. MacAfee.
   Eighth grader TJ Slipko, as head of the household, gave a strong presentation throughout and his rendition of "Kids" was well received by the audience. Alexandra Davis as Albert Peterson's mother ("Sweetheart, Darling") came across as close to professional and Robert Rutland as Albert and Rebecca Donnelly playing opposite worked well together making their parts quite believable.
   Music teacher Debra Remson's many hours after school and on Sundays spent directing the 6th, 7th and 8th graders in lines, songs, dances and blocking certainly paid off, and the entire cast and crew (click for cast/crew) had a lot of fun along the way. (Scroll down for rehearsal photos)

Middle School Rehearses "Bye Bye Birdie" - March 2004

Jodi Hayes Robinson Photos - Click for larger view
   Connor Middle School students, under the direction of music teacher Debra Remson, rehearsed their play, "Bye Bye Birdie" for the Island grade schools Monday in the Grand Island High School auditorium where the play was produced Tuesday evening, March 9, 2004.

Mardi Gras Dance At Middle School - March 2004

Click photo for larger view
Seventh and eighth grade Connor Middle School students enjoyed their February 27, 2004 Mardi Gras Dance from 7-9 p.m. in the school gym. The dance featured great music, pizza, pop and prizes awarded for those with the best Mardi Gras masks.

Middle School PTA Meeting - March 2004
   A meeting of the Veronica Connor Middle School PTA will be held 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 2, 2004 in the library. Speaker for the evening will be a guidance counselor whose topic is bullying. This meeting date was omitted from the school calendar.

Connor Middle School Student Council
Raises Money For Make-A-Wish Foundation - Feb. 2004

Shown from left are Breanna Fetzer, Mrs. Berger, Jed Heberlein, Lauren McGowan, Justine Vanthoff and Nick Argy.
Veronica E. Connor Middle School has lots of heart! Student Council members conducted their annual Valentine's Day carnation sale in late January when students ordered carnations for their friends, family, teachers, themselves, or that special someone. Each carnation cost $1.00. This year 2,951 carnations were sold, the most ever! The red carnations were delivered to the students on Friday, February 13.
Student Council representatives voted to donate all proceeds from the sale this year to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. By combining the carnation proceeds with money raised during International Night, the donation was an outstanding $2,000! Faculty advisors Mrs. Myers and Mrs. Saunders would like to extend their sincere thanks to all the students, faculty, staff, parents and friends who purchased carnations.
Mrs. Margaret Berger from the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Western New York visited the school on Friday, February 20, 2004 to congratulate the students and receive the check from the Student Council officers.

Middle School Honor Roll - February 2004
The following Veronica E. Connor Middle School students were named to the honor roll for the second quarter, 2003-2004 school year:
High Honor Roll
Grade 6: Emily Bolles, Steven Boyle, Luke Burkhart, Alexandra Buscaglia, Benjamin Certo, Michael Chauby, III, Brittany Cieri, Kara Dudley, Marwa Eltagouri, Kearney Erhard, Nicholas Ernst, Hillary Figler, Lauren Fonte, Alexander Fry, Susan Head, Tara Hook, Kelly Hooven, Maxwell Kilb, Joel Klock, Kristy Knickerbocker, Lauren Kucharski, Jeffrey LaRiviere, Stephen LoPresti, Jonathan LoTempio Jr., Daniel Major, Aman Mattu, Megan McInerney, Lianne Montagna, Christopher Moody, Alexandra Morell, Andrea Nicolia, Sarah Palazza, Breanne Rafferty, Nicholas Russo, Kaitie Samland, Jameela Syed, Caitlin Taylor, Eric Weigold.
Grade 7: Zachary Adams, Allison Boron, Simarjot Cheema, Kaitlyn Czerwonka, Amber Duda, Shane Eddy, Mary Grace Egloff, Julia Figliotti, Leah Gangloff, Rachel Gaydosh, Samantha Gieselman, Kaitlyn Hardison, Jenna Hutzler, Taylor Jackson, Michael Karpie, Jacqueline Maitner, Matthew Major, Kelsey Mash, Charlene Meyer, Alexander Neutz, Joseph Oliverio, Joshua Prygon, Kuljit Singh, Carly Snyder, Sheree Tamaklo, Jordan Tripi, Nicholas Vitello, Kelly Williams
Grade 8: Tyler Baldes, Chelsea Baran, Cassandra Coffey, Bailey DeGlopper, John Gannon, Kelcie Hanaka, Alexander Hultgren, Amber Hultgren, Amanda Jaeger, Samuel Kilb, Ashley Koerntgen, Kaitlyn Little, Samuel LoPresti, Adam Masse', Ashley Mazurkiewicz, Jeremy Meyer, Lindsey Miller, Jessica Sturniolo, Nicholas Taylor, Shana Wierchowski
Honor Roll
Grade 6: Alyssa Accardo, Kaitlyn Affuso, Richard Amantia, II, Jonathon Anderson, Stephanie Aronica, Adam Asbach, Elisabeth Asbach, Kimberly Asbach, Catherine Aughey, Stephanie Aughey, Jeffrey Bellanca, Katelyn Belter, Jovana Bichler, Christina Borden, Patrick Brady, Lisa Braun, Mary Elizabeth Britten, Kenneth Cerrillo, Kathryn Cobello, Joseph Collins, Courtney Cox, Anthony Darpino, Sarah Dolan, Jordan Dudish, Maria Edel, Joseph Fischer, Victoria Fleming, Rahsanica Ford, Anthony Genova, Mary George, Christopher Gibney, Krista Glownia, Sara Grana, Jill Greinert, Amy Grenke, Maria Guidotti, Chelsea Hall, Krystin Hoppel, Timothy Howley, Courtney Justus, Nicholas Kelly, Zachary Kelly, Brian Kulak, Elizabeth Lorence, Daniel Mathes, Keran Mattu, Liam McCabe, Nicole McGuire, Michael Montaldi, II, Erika Osberg, Ryan Osvath, Deanna Paternostro, Jessica Randhawa, Michael Rayhill, Alexander Re, Elizabeth Restey, Ashley Rutland, Jonathon Seaman, Spencer Seese, Taylor Segarra, Margaret Shonitsky, Jamie Sobieski, Michael Sperrazza, Kelly Stark, Rachel Starr, Christopher Stessing, Scott Suszczynski, Kaitlin Symula, Samantha Tilkins, Maria Todaro, Patricia VeRost, Kristin Wegrzyn, Sarah Young, Rebecca Zimmerman, Travis Zukic
Grade 7: Kelli Adreon, Alexa Amato, Lee Becker, Amy Bidell, David Britten, Kyle Clayton, Aaron D'Angelo, Jason Davis, Darren DelSignore, Michaeline Dera, Korey DiMatteo, Joseph Edel, Nicolette Fadel, Jenna Fanara, Ashley Fike, Angela Fusco, Zachary Gilbert, Andrew Ginsburg, Krista Goff, Kaitlin Hager, Meghan Haley, Chris Harper, Scott Holler, Craig Hooper, Taylor Kaufman, Alexandra King, Benjamin Kose, Erin Krieger, Benjamin Kuch, Beau Lapp, Charles Lavallee, Drew Lazelle, Nicholas Lovetro, Carolina Luciani, Matthew Ludwig, Nicholas Marmino, David McMichael, Genna Nuchereno, Marvin Pawlowski, III, Sarah Pici, Susan Pioli, Christopher Podlucky, Alexander Richter, Lance Robinson, Joseph Romano, Michael Rustowicz, Robert Rutland, III, Kayla Salonek, Jennifer Schaber, Carla Schory, Sierra Seese, Kayleigh Shepard, Alyssa Spada, Sara Stenzel, Emily Thompson, Kaitlyn Wardour, Lauren Whitney, Brianna Wojnar, Arlene Wunsch, Amanda Zernickel, Tyler Zikuski
Grade 8: Giovanna Andolina, Alma Aponte, Nicholas Argy, Jessica Bakkila, Alexander Battaglia, David Benko, Teighlor Bennett, Jasmeet Brar, Lauren Braun, Lauren Brindisi, Kahla Cerrillo, Kelly Cich, Jennifer Ciechoski, Jaclyn Coe, Matthew Collins, Theresa Covatto, Alexandra Davis, Tiffani Dickinson, Rebecca Donnelly, Caitlyn Driscoll, Sean Duff, Christopher Eley, Jacob Ferrante, Brandon Fetzer, Marc Gerfin, Ashley Green, Ryan Hagen, Matthew Helf, Cathryn Hilliard, Jennifer Huber, Joshua Kaplan, Richard Karpie, Ryan Killian, Matthew Klock, Todd Kunze, Lauren McGowan, Danielle Nash, Nichole Nash, William Newsome, Jessica Oyer, Jordan Paolucci, Brittany Papaj, Michelle Paternostro, Alexandra Peters, Vernique Pitner, Anthony Poupalos, Matthew Riley, Carrie Schooping, Riley Sexsmith, James Sica, Brandi Skill, Theodore Slipko, III, Kimberly Snell, Rebecca Sobol, Alicia Sommer, Scott Thompson Jr., Jordan Toth, Nicholas Vallina, Alexander Webb, Alexandra Weiser, Kacey White, Noah Yanicki, Matthew Zarbo

Middle School Merit Roll - February 2004
The following Veronica E. Connor Middle School students were named to the merit roll for the second quarter, 2003-2004 school year:
Grade 6: Patrick Antonelli, Alissa Bailey, Conrad Baker, Kolby Banker, Kelsey Bettinger, Eric Breier, Brett Brennan, Anthony Bruno, Nathan Busch, Victoria Cacciatore, Amanda Camizzi, David Campuzano, Julianna Capizzi, Anthony Carrato, Krystal Chapin, Seana Chirico, Calla Clark, Harold Clark, Ian Conner, Joseph Connors, James Cooke, Samantha Darby, Kayla Deuble, Brett Dlugosz, Renee' Doermer, Alexander Fabiilli, Christopher Franklin, Kate Garten, Anthony Grande, Maria Grant, Samantha Green, Korey Hagen, James Heberlein, Emily Incorvia, Shaughn Irving, Raman Kaur, Savanna Kustra, Timothy Lang, Steven Lillian, Joshua Little, Kori Loder, Nicholas LoManto, Scott Ludwig, Michael Lydle, Thomas McDonnell, Sara McNulty, Angelo Mole, Jared Northrup, Courtney Papaj, Michael Phillips, Tony Rains, Ian Rogers, Robert Ross, Anthony Russell, Stephen Shackelford, Zaeem Shah, Keith Skelly, Allison Snell, Amber Spiesz, Kasey Sumner, Rachel Surdi, Timothy Symington, Sara Wilczek, Aria Yanicki
Grade 7: Natalie Agnello, Joseph Aladeen, Narmeen Ammar, Robert Amsdill, Kaitlin Arida, Peter Aronica, Sarah Bastian, Brianna Busch, Maria Buyer, Olivia Chopra, Dustin Coryn, Natalie Dommell, Melissa Fargino, Gregory Feathers, Brianna Fetzer, Kelsey Foote, Samantha Forysinski, Amanda Geis, Adrian Grant, Adam Helman, Cody Hogrewe, Alexandra Imperi, Kaitlin Incorvia, Joshua Kahn, Brittany Keel, Joseph Khreis, Timothy Lewis, Mia Magliazzo, Eric Manuszewski, Christian Martinez, James McDonnell, Daniel McKenna, Andrew Mrzygut, Nicholas Muoio, Davis Nelson, Katie Nordvik, Brian O'Keefe, Shawn O'Rourke, John Osberg, Destiny Perez, Scott Quider, Michele Rossi, Michael Scheid, Lee Schuster, Nicole Serra, Timothy Shantler, Eric Siwicki, Jeffrey Szczepaniak, Robert Tates, Justine Vanthoff, Matthew Violanti, Megan Wagner, Allison Walker, Alexandra Whitford, Christopher Wilczek, Shaun Winter, Joseph Zarbo
Grade 8: Steven Accardo, Joseph Amsdill, Alexandra Armusewicz, Danielle Asbach, Ellen Betterson, Jared Billica, Timothy Boorady, Kelsey Borgeson, Lindsey Boyle, Jeremy Chopra, Taylor Cool, Ashley Curry, Shannon Curry, Daniel DeMarco, Bryan Deuble, Julia Fleming, Adam Funk, Thomas Gebhard, Bethany Gebhart, Shari Geblein, Carly Hall, Nicholas Hall, Lea Hinaman, Ryan Hoople, Matthew Huber, Sean Joseph, Reid Kashmanian, Nathaniel Keefe, Alexandria Kelly, Jeremy LaBarre, Matthew Little, Shawna Long, Eric Madia, Michael Magaris, Morgan Majewski, Nicholas Martinez, Stephen Mathes, Jr., Courtney McCoy, Craig Meaney, Walaine Melendez, Amber Meyers, Christian Nestark, Alexis Odasz, Lauren Quattrini, Caitlin Radecki, Scott Ross, Patrick Sexton, Aleem Shariff, Shawn Speidel, Nicole Stickl, Melanie Switalski, Joseph Tanbakuchi, Kristin Toellner, Roman Velletta, Patrick Winters

Middle School Merit Roll - April 2004
The following Veronica E. Connor Middle School students were named to the merit roll for the thirdquarter, 2003-2004 school year:
Grade 6: Richard Amantia, II, Patrick Antonelli, Stephanie Aronica, Alissa Bailey, Conrad Baker, Benjamin Bakula, Kelsey Bettinger, Eric Breier, Anthony Bruno, Sean Burke, Julianna Capizzi, Kaitlyn Chapin, Krystal Chapin, Seana Chirico, Harold Clark, Ian Conner, James Cooke, Brett Dlugosz, Renee' Doermer, Alexander Fabiilli, Michelle Fanara, Christopher Franklin, Kate Garten, Christopher Gibney, Samantha Green, Amy Grenke, Korey Hagen, Chelsea Hall, Shaughn Irving, Zachary Kelly, Timothy Krecisz, Steven Lillian, Kori Loder, Scott Ludwig, Michael Lydle, Daniel Mathes, Thomas McDonnell, Sara McNulty, Hayley Metro, Angelo Mole, Christopher Mornelli, Jared Northrup, Courtney Papaj, Michael Phillips, Tony Rains, Ian Rogers, Robert Ross, Anthony Russell, Robert Schiffhauer, Margaret Shonitsky, Allison Snell, Paige Speidel, Kasey Sumner, Rachel Surdi, Kaitlin Symula, Sara Wilczek, Nicole Winter, Molly Wynne, Aria Yanicki, Rebecca Zimmerman, Travis Zukic
Grade 7: Kelli Adreon, Natalie Agnello, Joseph Aladeen, Alexa Amato, Robert Amsdill, Sarah Bastian, Sean Benninger, David Britten, Danielle Bush, Maria Buyer, Olivia Chopra, Aaron D'Angelo, Jason Davis, Nicolette Fadel, Jenna Fanara, Shannon Farmer, Gregory Feathers, Ashley Fike, Samantha Forysinski, Angela Fusco, Amanda Geis, Adam Helman, Cody Hogrewe, Alexandra Imperi, Kaitlin Incorvia, Brittany Keel, Charles Lavallee, Eric Manuszewski, Christian Martinez, Ashley McCord, James McDonnell, Daniel McKenna, Nicholas Muoio, Davis Nelson, Katie Nordvik, Shawn O'Rourke, Brian O’Keefe, Marvin Pawlowski, III, Travis Perno, Lauren Priest, Joseph Romano, Michele Rossi, Robert Rutland, III, Kayla Salonek, Victoria Schaber, Michael Scheid, Carla Schory, Timothy Shantler, Sara Stenzel, Joshua Stoddard, Emily Thompson, Charanjot Tiwana, Ryan Vertino, Matthew Violanti, Allison Walker, Alexandra Whitford, Lauren Whitney, Andrea Wilson, Shaun Winter, Arlene Wunsch, Joseph Zarbo, Tyler Zikuski
Grade 8: Steven Accardo, Nicholas Argy, Alexandra Armusewicz, Danielle Asbach, Jared Billica, Kelsey Borgeson, Lindsey Boyle, Lauren Braun, Casey Carminati, Jeremy Chopra, Matthew Collins, Ashley Curry, Daniel DeMarco, Bryan Deuble, Casey Deuser, Jessica Doyle, Christopher Eley, Adam Funk, Thomas Gebhard, Shari Geblein, Carly Hall, Nicholas Hall, Michael Heftka, Matthew Helf, Lea Hinaman, Ryan Hoople, Matthew Huber, Sean Joseph, Reid Kashmanian, Todd Kunze, Jeremy LaBarre, Pasquale Lemme, III, Shawna Long, Kurt Makowski, Edward Mallwitz, Nicholas Martinez, Courtney McCoy, Ashley McGuire, Craig Meaney, Walaine Melendez, Amber Meyers, Christian Nestark, Sara Orsolits, Brittany Papaj, Lauren Quattrini, Caitlin Radecki, Jordan Ricigliano, Scott Ross, Patrick Sexton, Aleem Shariff, Nicole Stickl, Melanie Switalski, Michael Symington, Joseph Tanbakuchi, Kristin Toellner, Patrick Winters, Matthew Zarbo

Sidway, Connor Middle Students Attend Art Reception - Feb. 2004

Sidway art teacher Theresa Barnack and her students gather near the masks that are among their creations on display at the Amherst Museum. From left are students Melissa Ullrich, MaryKate Petz, Kathryn Gentz, Mark Valle, Eric Ackerman Jr. and Natalie Henderson.
Kathleen Ganz Photo - Click for a larger view.
   Grand Island schools were well represented at the New York State Art Teachers Association Student Art Show at the Amherst Museum. Art teachers Theresa Barnack from Sidway and Nora Klein from Connor Middle School were at the museum on Feb. 7 with their students to explain their creations and view work from other young artists in the area. Participating from Sidway were MaryKate Petz, Natalie Henderson, Taylor Latvala, Eric Ackerman Jr., Melissa Ullrich, Devon Perri, Mark Valle and Kathryn Gentz. From Connor Middle School were 8th grade students Jennifer Chiechoski, Theresa Covatto, Carly Hall, Kyle Kraft, Sam LoPresti, Scott Thompson, Kristin Tollner and Shana Wierchowski.

Connor Middle School's Second "Going Bald For Bucks" Fundraiser A Success - Jan. 2004

Craig Davis, left. Jim Randall, right
(Standing left): Craig Davis, Tony George, Ed Anchor, Jim Randall, Tom Feeney, Craig Voight, Bill Brodie; (seated): Mike Zuch, Ray Hartman, Chris Simpson, Becky Goelz, Jim McIntyre and Pete Montana
                                    Jodi Robinson Photos - Click for larger view.
   A group of teachers from Connor Middle School participated in the "Going Bald For Bucks" fundraiser for the second year and raised over $5000 for Roswell Park's fight against cancer. Ten of the boys moderate basketball team coached by Bill Brodie (fundraiser organizer) started it off by shaving their heads on Thursday, January 29, 2004 and raised $1,300. The teachers from the middle school (and one from the high school) shaved their heads on Friday morning, January 30.
   Joining the teachers group this year was fundraiser originator Tony George, an American History teacher from Lakeshore Senior High School. Tony's sister was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 29 in 1996. In 2002 after a second re-occurance in Cathy George's cancer, Tony wanted to help. He jokingly told his class he was going to shave his head and the students offered donations and help with raising funds. The first year the group had 30 participants and raised $3500. Lake Shore had over 20 teachers and 70 students participate last year. They also had one dozen girls donate their hair to the "Locks of Love" organization.
   Between Grand Island and Lakeshore, over $11,500 was raised in 2003. This year's goal is $20,000. Other schools are being asked by the Lake Shore High School Student Council to get involved. Those interested in making a donation or getting involved are asked to contact Tony George at 812-2897 or email ageorge@lakeshore.wnyric.org.

Self-Portraits And More - Jan. 2004

Self-Portraits
Jodi Hayes Robinson Photos
   Twenty of Middle School Art Teacher Nora Klein's students currently have artworks on display in the community meeting room of the Grand Island Memorial Library. The display is one of several continuously changing shows that the art department of the Grand Island schools presents during the school year. The current display features the work of 8th grade student artists. They have self-portraits in pencil and O'Keefe pastel emulations on display. The show will remain on view through January. A previous story featured the Georgia O'Keefe exhibit. The Studio in Art students have created realistic self-portraits in graphite after studying the work of contemporary American Painter Chuck Close. Like Close, they have gridded their portraits as they created them.
   These displays are sponsored by the school district, the Friends of the Library and the Grand Island Art Society.

The following students have their work on display:
Chelsea Baran
Jasmeet Brar
Lauren Brindisi
Kahla Cerrillo
Kelly Cich
Jackie Coe
Theresa Covatto
Bailey DeGlopper
Tiffani Dickinson
Rebecca Donnelly
Kory Holzle
Alex Hultgren
Matthew Klock
Ashley Koerntgen
Kaitlyn Little
Sam LoPresti
Anthony Poupolos
James Sica
Alex Webb
Shana Wierchowski