OUR YEAR OF CELEBRATION BEGINS THIS SUNDAY, MAY 9TH:
Please come to St. Mary's for the Rosary, May Crowning and Mass on Mother's Day, May 9^th.  For several weeks now we have been signing the names of our own mothers and grandmothers in a special journal in the church.  Please come early enough so you may have time to write the names of your mother in the 150th anniversary Mother's day registry too.

1)  THE MAY CROWNING AND ROSARY KICK IT OFF:  Plan to arrive about 11:30 for a decade of the rosary followed by the May Crowning of our Mother, Mary Help of Christians.  The St. Mary's Youth choir (3rd grade and up) along with the St. Mary's Junior Choir (PreK through 2nd grade) to sing for the crowning of the Blessed Mother, joined by flautists from the St. Mary's.  After the May crowning we will continue our celebration with 12:30 MASS. 

2) THE MOTHER'S DAY LITURGY: Principal celebrant Bishop Thomas V. Daly will concelebrate the 12:30 pm mass with the many priests who were at St. Mary's at one time or another during our rich history. 

3) LIGHT REFRESHMENTS AFTER MASS: Following mass, all parishioners are invited to a buffet of light refreshments and the opportunity to view parish memorabilia in the lower church.

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JUNE 12TH HOMECOMING DAY ITINERARY:
* Alumni are invited to attend the 2004 commencement exercises in the church Friday evening June 11, 2004.
* Saturday June 12th homecoming festivities will begin with a light reception in the Auditorium at 3:00pm
* We continue over to the church to celebrate the 5:00pm mass together
* Cocktail party with horsd'oeuvres, refreshments and live entertainment beginning after the 5:00 mass

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THE RECEPTION ART SHOW:
The teachers have the assignment, and the theme is "The Blessed Mother".  Mrs. Cunningham's 2nd grade class has already completed their project & her participants have been selected.  If all goes well there will be about 50 art-show participants from St. Mary's School and the School of Religion/CCD.  If you have an easel that you would like to donate to the St. Mary's Art department for the art show display in the main gym, please reply to this email for further information. 

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HOME SCHOOL AND ALUMNI ASSOCIATIONS JOIN FORCES:
It really must be just around the corner because the raffles and donations and 50/50 tickets are being arranged for as we write this!  Alumnus and Home School Maria G. '78 and Kim J. '74 have joined forces to organize this section of the homecoming celebration.  We are looking forward to a fun-filled afternoon and evening of games and prizes with proceeds going to the home school association to benefit school programs.  Thanks Kim & Maria!

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ST MARY'S YOUNGEST STUDENTS CONTINUE THE TRADITION:
The March open house was a big success, and it was wonderful to see so many alumni with their children and grandchildren.  Many alumni who have moved away are dropping their children off with Grandma and Grandpa, on their way to work.  We are pleased to see these children continue the SMS tradition by enrolling in St. Mary's for the upcoming September term!  If interested, please call the school for information ASAP!  You don't have to wait until June!

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THAT'S ENTERTAINMENT...
Not only has St. Mary's created some highly intelligent individuals, but oh so talented too!  Alumni from the SMS and Confraternity/CCD classes of 1978, 1984, 1986 and 1981, will provide some of the entertainment at the homecoming.  Thanks to Garry, Ki-Young & Fabio.  If you would like to participate in some way please send a note to alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org and we will point you in the right direction.

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"MASS" MAILING (no pun intended...)
A big thank-you to the cadets of St. Mary's girl scouts for their incredible help last Friday evening getting the alumni mailing stuffed, labeled and done!  In speaking with the kids last night, it's my pleasure to tell you they are very excited about homecoming day!  If you graduated in 1979 or 1954, your must remember the excitement of the celebration.  The class of 2004 is particularly honored to be graduating on the 150th anniversary.

RESPONSES:
20's: 1
40's: 11
50's: 55
60's: 45
70's: 45
80's: 35
90's: 1
00's: 9
CCD: 4
Former faculty: 8
*Please note these totals include spouses, etc. (Volunteers: 25)

Many members who write in on a consistent basis have not RSVP'd.  The regular mail flyers were done last night, but if you will be attending please don't wait for the flyer.  If you are one of the people saying, "they know I'm coming..." or "I'll just pop-in" - we respectfully ask that you drops us a note letting us know of your plans.  We also need to know who is coming to plan participation in the liturgy.  Just send an email to:  alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org

** WE WILL SEND A CONFIRMATION OF YOUR RSVP IMMEDIATELY *** If you have not received a confirmation of your RSVP, then you are probably not on the list.   

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HEARTWARMING GENEROSITY:
We would like to stress there is no charge for the homecoming, but we have been overwhelmed with questions about donations for the celebration and school programs.

Many of you have said you prefer to make your donation in person on homecoming day, but of course if you are one of the many who want us to have it in advance to help pay for the celebration it can be mailed to the rectory.

Just this week two ladies from the class of 1955 dropped by for a weekday mass and popped in to the rectory with their homecoming donation.  If you want to mail or drop off a donation in advance of the celebration, please mark the envelope as follows so there is no confusion:

St. Mary's Alumni Association
Attn: Homecoming / V Holley
70-31 48th Avenue
Woodside, NY  11377

We want to reiterate there is no charge for the party, but the incredible generosity of St. Mary's alumni is truly heartwarming.

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PLEASE KEEP IN YOUR PRAYERS:
The Calamari Clan has been a part of the heart and soul of St. Marys school and parish for as long as anyone around here can remember.  Calamari graduates span the classes of 1927, 1930, 1951, 1954, 1958, 1961, 1965, 1971, 1972, 1983, 1984, 1985, and 1988... (Need we say more...)  Family matriarch, Eleanore Calamari has fallen ill as of late and has "one foot in heaven" as her niece Ann has so eloquently put it.  Eleanore's daughter requested that we let our members know they can send a prayer and/or get well card to Eleanore while she is still with us.  For further information, please reply to this email.

We would also wish Patty D. '66 a speedy recovery from some rather serious injuries sustained in a car accident  recently.  Our prayers will accompany you on your road to recovery.

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LIGHT UP THE SKY WITH MY NAME...
Do you know of anyone famous who graduated from St. Mary's?  Are you famous?  Actors, Singers, Politicians... who is in the public eye?  Wanted posters do not count! (Kidding!)  Please let us know by responding to this email!  alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org

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IF THEY COULD SEE ME NOW!!!
We would like to congratulate the following:

Christopher Gonzalez (class of 2000) who was recently accepted to Cornell University.
Rachel Flynn '03 for making the Mary Louis Academy Principal's List and Honor roll for the 2nd trimester

This year's 8th grade graduating class of 2004 for their recent acceptances into the following schools: Loyola, Townsend Harris, Bronx High school of Science, St. John's Prep, Archbishop Molloy, The Mary Louis Academy, Christ the King, St. Vincent Ferrer, Dominican, Monsignor McClancy, St. Francis Prep, Holy Cross, Xavier, Stella Maris and St. Agnes, to name a few.

The class of 2004 also earned fully paid 4-year scholarships to Archbishop Molloy, The Mary Louis Academy, St. Francis Prep and Xavier.  Partial scholarships and grants were also earned for those schools in addition to Stella Maris.  THEY ARE A CREDIT TO OUR NAME!

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DOWNLOAD OF THE MONTH:
"Spybot Search & Destroy" removes cookies and other 'spyware" from your computer - it's free.  A few friends have been using it and I tried it this week.  It seems to be working and I love it. 
http://download.com.com/3000-2144-10194058.html?tag=lst-0-1

Here is a fun but frustrating game of geography:
http://www.pibmug.com/files/map_test.swf

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OLD WINFIELD LINK OF THE MONTH:

LaGuardia and Wagner archives:
http://www.queenshistory.lagcc.cuny.edu/queenshistory/photographs.asp
Just search for a topic - there are some photos that are over 100 years old on file.  Great resource!

Other old photos sites:
http://www.queenstribune.com/best2002/oldphotos.htm

Winfield Station 1967:
http://www.lirrhistory.com/mar2003/win1967.jpg

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SCHOOL DAYS, SCHOOL DAYS, DEAR OLD GOLDEN RULE DAYS:
Since the last newsletter we have received RSVP's from many of our beloved former educators.  Please get the word out!  So far we expect to see:

Sr. Mary Noemi Kreppein
Mrs. Sheila Smith-Gonzalez
Sr. Eileen Marie
Sr. Francis Genevieve
Sr. Joan Cecelia
Sr. Mary Pieta
Sr. Vivian
Sr. Lenore Toscano
Mrs. Susan Makse-Cronin (Former faculty & Alumnus)
Mrs. Catherine Migliorato-Comeau (Former faculty & Alumnus)
Mrs. Barbara Pokorny - McArdle (Former faculty & Alumnus)

We also understand that Sister John is back in the hospital at Good Samaritan.  Hope she is feeling better, please keep her in your prayers.  If you know of any former faculty and can pass our email address to them, please do so: alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org

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WHAT A WONDERFUL WORLD:
We are collecting graduation gowns of any color the children's choir.  If you have any PLEASE send them to us!  big thank you goes out the Bauer and Sawtelle families for their donations. For information on where to send the robes, please send an email to:  alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org

The Children's choir will have many copies of their fund-raiser CD on homecoming day.  If you didn't get your copy yet, PLEASE plan on picking one up on homecoming day!  The kids will be there in full force as waiters and waitresses to serve you, so please support them by planning on participating in their fund-raiser. Remember all funds raised to directly to school programs.

The next CHILDREN'S CHOIR event will be**:
Sunday May 9th Pre-Mass May crowning with Bishop Daly 11:30 am

The next SCHOOL MASS will be**:
Tuesday May 18, 2004 Hosted by 1st Grade at the 8:30 am Mass

The next FAMILY MASS will be:
Sunday May 23, 2004 Family Mass at the 10:00 am Mass

All other 10:00am masses are "CHILDREN'S LITURGY" masses, attending to the special needs of our very young parishioners.!!  Please come and bring the kids and the grandkids... better yet have them join us!

Announcing the St. Mary's School Junior choir for grades PreK through 2

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150th ANNIVERSARY CALENDAR OF EVENTS:

MAY 9, 2004:
12:30PM MASS: Opening 150th Anniversary ceremonies at 11:30AM

JUNE 12, 2004: 
Homecoming begins at 3:00PM in school

JUNE 20, 2004:
12:30 PM MASS Celebration of Fathers.

SEPTEMBER 12, 2004:
PARISH FEAST Celebrate our cultural diversity.

OCTOBER 17, 2004:
8:30AM MASS followed by Communion Breakfast.

NOVEMBER 17, 2004:
10:00AM Family Mass of Thanksgiving.

DECEMBER 12, 2004:
12:30AM MASS Dedication of Shrine of O. L. of Guadeloupe

FEBRUARY 13, 2005:
8:30AM MASS Holy Name Society.

MAY 14-18, 2005: 
PARISH RENEWAL

MAY 21, 2005:
PARISH DANCE Immaculate Conception Center.

MAY 22, 2005:
12:30PM MASS Closing ceremonies start at 11:30AM

For an up-to-the-minute calendar of events please visit the Parish Website: http://www.stmarysofwinfield.com

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THE $64,000.00 QUESTION:

1) WHAT PROFESSION DID YOU GO INTO?
2) WHICH CHURCH SONGS WERE YOUR FAVORITE AS A CHILD?

We need to know your favorite choristers hymns and songs!  Did you sing at St. Mary's as a child?  We would like to know what your personal favorite hymn or song was as a child.  Please write back - it may affect what the children will sing on homecoming day!  Respond to:  alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org

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TO EVERYTHING TURN, TURN, TURN:

To help us keep up to date with alumni who have gone to heaven defending our country and preserving our freedom, we ask you send in any KIA and MIA information you may have from Vietnam to present.  If you know of anyone that should be added to our memorial listing, please send that information into:  alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org

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STEWARDSHIP FAIR BIG SUCCESS:
The Stewardship fair that was held Palm Sunday weekend was a huge success!  We have met so many new friends and our St. Mary's family is continually growing and getting stronger.  You are the fruit of the seeds we planted long ago.  Keep spreading the word and planting your seeds.  With every good word and deed, you ensure a fruitful harvest for years to come.  Become a part of the force escorting St. Mary's into the future! 

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150TH ANNIVERSARY JOURNAL:
If you are one of the many interested in reserving space to commemorate your class, family or a personal intention in the 150th Anniversary journal, please let us know so we can reserve a space for you.  Send an email to: alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org and we will forward the information to the appropriate party.

==================

EVERYBODY'S TALKIN' AT ME:
The SMS chat boards are really taking off, and if you have not joined in yet we're waiting!  Last time we checked there were thousands of views to the chats and tons of new members every day!  Not bad for an alumni association that isn't even a year old!  Just sign into the BVM message boards here: http://www.stmarysofwinfield.com

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TEA FOR TWO... OR THREE... OR FOUR...
REUNIONS ARE AS FOLLOWS: 1947 is planning a reunion along with the classes of 55, 56, 80, 84 & 1986 along with the cadets.  Specific information is listed below.

CLASS OF 1947: Organizer Peter Lacey.  Need help locating classmates.  If you know of anyone who graduated from St. Mary's during this time period, please urge him or her to contact us.  It is VERY difficult to find people from almost 60 years ago - ESPECIALLY the girls because they take married names.

CLASS OF 1955: Organizer dick Olson & Kathy Dunphy.  The graduating class of January 1955, will be meeting for brunch on Sunday in a diner nearby in Elmhurst on Queens Blvd.  More information as to the time and place will follow.

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BLUE ANGELS/CADETS:  Organizer Susan O'Neil.  Please respond if interested.  If enough of you respond Susan will proceed with organizing the event.  You can join the Cadets chat at this website:
http://stmarys.proboards20.com/index.cgi?board=general&action=display&num=1078070391

If you want to plan a reunion, or if you are already planning a reunion for your class, please let us know so we can post the information accordingly. For further information or to contact your class-reps and/or classmates, just drop us an email and we will forward it to the appropriate parties.  Send your submissions and inquiries to:  alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org.  See the reunion pages here: http://www.stmarysdramaguild.org/alumnireunions.htm

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AND NOW BATTING CLEANUP...
We are putting our volunteer list together for setup and breakdown duty.  We have gotten a few people on-board from the last few newsletters, and if you are going to be in the area Friday evening (June 11th), Saturday (June 12th) before 3:00pm or Saturday after the cocktail party and would like to volunteer for either one of these duties, please send an email to:  alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org 

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IF A PICTURE'S WORTH A THOUSAND WORDS...
"Our Parish Voice" photos from the 70's including the 1977 block party, the bicentennial celebrations from the 60's we have the cadets, the cheerleaders, baseball at Tymon field!  We are a little backed up getting the photos online, but we will get to everything as soon as we can.  To see what is already up, please click into "photos" on this page:  http://www.stmarysdramaguild.org/alumni150.htm

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JUST LIKE A MOVING PICTURE SHOW...
If you are getting rid of any children's Disney movies or cartoons or other movies such as The Wizard of Oz, The Parent Trap, Abbott and Costello, That Darn Cat, etc... in VHS format, the alumni association would like to collect and donate them to the BVM after school video library.   Please reply to this email:  alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org 

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IF I HAD A HAMMER...
Thanks to Pat Casey, we now have an official memorabilia room, for which the anniversary committee is currently accepting display items.  All memorabilia on loan to St. Mary's church will be returned at the end of 2005, after the anniversary year has come to a close.  If you have something you consider to be an exceptional piece of St. Mary's history and would like to offer it for display, PLEASE reply to this email:  alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org 

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CAN YOU HEAR ME NOW?
Those of you in the area interested in becoming active in the alumni association, we need help making mass announcements at Saturday and/or Sunday masses.  If interested please let us know ASAP.

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CLASSMATES... DOT... COM...
There are MANY alumni listed on the www.classmates.com website.  We have tried to contact all of them, but unfortunately most of them have not responded.  If you think you may have better luck at it, why don't you search for your graduation year at the St. Mary's section of their website found here:
http://www.classmates.com/cmo/user/school/list.jsp?startYear=1900&communityId=17028731

If you do get in contact with an old friend or two, please have them contact us so we can get them on the list!  Just have them send an email to: Alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org

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ST. MARY'S IRISH DANCE: 

Saturday May 22, 2004 from 8:30 pm to 1:00 am.  Open Bar, Hot Food, Music by The New York Show Band.  $25.00 per person.  Contact the rectory for further information 718 672-4848

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150TH ANNIVERSARY PILGRIMAGE TO EUROPE:
to Paris, Lisieuz, Lourdes, Burgos & Fatima.  With Fr. Noel and Fr. Tom.  October 18th through the 26th, 2004.  $2,159 per person including tax.  Please contact the rectory for further information at (718) 672-4848.

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GOLDEN AGE CLUB HAPPENINGS:
MAY 13th: AAW's 30th anniversary kick off ball at the Skylands in Northern New Jersey.  Luncheon, entertainment, bus price $51.00. 

JUNE 10th:  Mardi Gras at Doolan (Spring Lake) transportation, luncheon, entertainment, gift prizes, price $51.00

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GOLDEN AGE CLUB HAPPENINGS:

To ensure delivery of your alumni newsletter, make sure to add us to your "Trusted Senders" list (especially Outlook for Windows XP users). Make sure to clear alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org as approved and not "junk mail." Because we use a "BCC" (blind carbon copy) on our e-mailings, Spam filters may block our newsletter from your inbox. *** ESPECIALLY AOL AND HOTMAIL USERS ***

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VIRUS WARNINGS:
Have you have been receiving strange email from people you don't know - with weird attachments that make no sense?  If the answer was "YES," then one of your friends may have sent you a new computer virus called KLEZE"NETSKY" AND/OR "BEAGLE"  You can protect your computer and on occasion download free "removal tool" from Symantec (The Norton Anti-Virus people).  Just click here for more information:  http://www.symantec.com

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HOLY HUMOR:
Little Johnny had been having a hard time with his math as of late.  His mom and dad had done almost everything to help their son, but nothing worked. Finally, they took their savings and enrolled him into a very small Catholic school hoping this would finally give their son what he needed to excel in math.

At the end of the first day of school little Johnny walked in with a stern expression on his face, and walked right past the parents and went straight to his room and quietly closed the door. For nearly two hours he toiled away in his room with math books strewn about his desk and the surrounding floor. He only emerged long enough to eat, and after quickly cleaning his plate, he went straight back to his room, closed the door, and worked feverishly at his studies until bedtime.

Overjoyed, the parent's went into their son's room, thrilled at his enthusiasm. 

"Was it the nuns that did it?", the father asked. The boy only shook his head and said, "No." 

"Was it the one-on-one tutoring? The peer-mentoring?", asked the mother. Again, the boy shrugged, "No."

"The textbooks? The teacher? The curriculum?", asked the father. "Nope," said the son.

"When I walked into the lobby, and I saw that guy nailed to the plus sign, I knew they meant business!"

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EASTER SEASON NEWSLETTER 

APRIL 1, 2004 

Fellow Alumni, Parishioners and Friends, 

This year is flying by so quickly it is almost overwhelming to think that our year-long journey of uniting and re-uniting will culminate in 9 weeks or so. We want to impress the importance of RSVP's for the June 12th homecoming. If you have not officially RSVP'd, please do so as soon as you can. 

With all the hubbub about Mel Gibson's passion let us not forget "The Passion of Christ" is playing at a church near you this week... Palm Sunday is the first day of a week-long celebration of Jesus' love for us. We pray this Easter season for Peace and Love throughout the world, and in our own hearts. 

Best Regards and God Bless, 
BVM Alumni Association 
150th Anniversary Committee 

============================= 

WE'RE TAKING A FEW SURVEYS: 

1) WHAT WAS YOUR PROFESSION DID YOU GO INTO? 
2) WHICH CHURCH SONGS WERE YOUR FAVORITE AS A CHILD? 

We need to know your favorite choristers hymns and songs! Did you sing at St. Mary's as a child? We would like to know what your personal favorite hymn or song was as a child. Please write back - it may affect what the children will sing on homecoming day! 

Respond to: alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org 

============================= 

LET YOUR FINGERS DO THE WALKING - IT'S A SNAP... 
We want to impress the importance of RSVP's of the June 12, 2004 Homecoming Celebration. If you have not officially RSVP'd to us, then please do not assume you are on the list. Contact us immediately so you will be on the check-in list. 

Many people are saying, "they know I'm coming..." or "I'll just pop-in" - we respectfully ask that you tell us specifically who is coming, whether or not you are bringing a spouse, etc. If we have not heard from you, drops us a line. We also need to know who is coming to plan participation in the liturgy. 

** WE WILL SEND A CONFIRMATION OF YOUR RSVP IMMEDIATELY *** 

ACTUAL RSVP'S RECEIVED: 
40's: 2 
50's: 21 
60's: 8 
70's: 6 
80's: 12 
90's: 1 
00's: 0 
faculty: 2 
setup/breakdown: 12 

It will REALLY help with the event planning. Just send an email to: alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org 

============================= 

KIA, MIA: ST MARY'S VERERANS 
To help us keep up to date with alumni who have gone to heaven defending our country and preserving our freedom, we ask you send in any KIA and MIA information you may have from Vietnam to present. Sadly we begin our Vietnam list with alumnus Alfred Fillipeli, class of 1963. Alfred will be in our hearts on homecoming day, 40 years after his passing. 

If you know of anyone that should be added to our memorial listing, please send that information into: alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org 

============================= 

ALL ABOARD THE S.S. STEWARD-SHIP!!! 
The Stewardship fair will be held this Saturday after the 5:00 mass and Sunday after from 8:30am until about 2:00. If you are still a resident of the area (or even if you're not but want to bring a friend who is in the area), please think of popping into the Stewardship fair!! As an alumnus you are already a rich part of St. Mary's history, wouldn't it be wonderful to be a part of the force that will escort St. Mary's into the future! We hope to see you. 

============================= 

150TH ANNIVERSARY JOURNAL: 
Many of you remember the 100th and 125th Anniversaries and the beautiful journals that commemorated them. If you were one of the many who have been inquiring about reserving space in the 150th Anniversary journal, we will begin reserving space shortly. Whether your page commemorates your class, your family or a personal intention, we should have more journal information available in the newsletter that will go via first-class mail at the end of this month! For further information send an email to: alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org 

** Information will be supplied sometime after Easter 

============================= 

TAUGHT TO THE TUNE OF A HICKORY STICK... 
Since the last newsletter Sr. Noemi and Sr. Francis Genevieve, long-time teachers at St. Mary's have recently contacted us and RSVP'd for the homecoming! We also know Sr. Jeremy may be attending a private class reunion for 1956, and we are waiting to hear from her regarding the homecoming. We have recently found out Sr. Mary John (1950's era) is in the hospital, please keep her in your prayers. If you know of any former faculty and can pass our email address to them, please do so: alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org 

WE ARE FAMILY, I MEAN ALL MY SISTERS AND ME..! 
Sr. Frances Geneveive, 

============================= 

HOMECOMING ITINERARY - JUNE 12, 2004: 
* All alumni are invited to attend the 2004 commencement exercises in the church the evening of Friday June 11, 2004. 
* Saturday afternoon's homecoming festivities will begin with a light reception in the Auditorium. 
*We will have student art show in honor of the 150th anniversary 
*Next we will celebrate the 5:00pm mass together as the St. Mary's family that we are. "Praising God together we are one" 
* Finally a sea of blue and gold will be the setting for the homecoming cocktail party with horsd'oeuvres, refreshments and live entertainment. 

The homecoming is no charge and there are no tickets, but we may have an RSVP check-in. For those of you who asked, donations will of course be accepted. Similarly, for those of you not in the area who cannot attend, thank you for the donations you have already sent in! Every little bit helps the school, and St. Mary's is eternally grateful to you, her children. 

We are unique - we are 150 years old and you're a part of it! 

============================= 

JESUS LOVES THE LITTLE CHILDREN OF THE WORLD... 

The next SCHOOL MASS will be**: 
Tuesday April 6, 2004 at the 8:30am Mass 

The next CHILDREN'S CHOIR MASS will be**: 
Easter Sunday at the 10:00am Mass 

Our next FAMILY MASS will be: 
April 25, 2004 at the 10:00am Mass 

All other 10:00am masses are "CHILDREN'S LITURGY" masses, attending to the special needs of our very young parishioners.!! Please come and bring the kids and the grandkids... better yet have them join us! 

** COMING SOON THE SCHOOL JUNIOR CHOIR FOR 2ND GRADES AND UNDER ** 

============================= 

HOMECOMING LITURGY: 
Do you know of any alumni who have answered God's call? Fr. Kenneth Boller, class of 1960, will be celebrating the alumni 5:00 mass. As we begin to plan this homecoming liturgy, we are actively gathering a contact listing for alumni in ministry and service to the Lord such as priests, brothers, sisters, deacons, etc. to participate. If you can help us please send an email to: alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org 

============================= 

THE CLASS OF 2004: 150 YEARS OF PRIDE IN OUR PARISH! 
This year's 8th grade graduating class of 2004 will be the newest additions to our alumni association. They deserve a lot of credit for their recent acceptances into the following schools: 
Loyola, Townsend Harris, Bronx High school of Science, St. John's Prep, Archbishop Molloy, The Mary Louis Academy, Christ the King, St. Vincent Ferrer, Dominican, Monsignor McClancy, St. Francis Prep, Holy Cross, Xavier, Stella Maris and St. Agnes, to name a few. 

The class of 2004 also earned fully paid 4-year scholarships to Archbishop Molloy, The Mary Louis Academy, St. Francis Prep and Xavier. Partial scholarships and grants were also earned for those schools in addition to Stella Maris. 


A CREDIT TO OUR NAME: ALUMNI WORKING HARD IN HIGH SCHOOL! 

St. John's Preparatory Honor Roll: 
Lauren Fusco 
Alexandra Galicia 

Archbishop Molloy Honor Roll: 
Jose Jimenez 
David Lopera 
Brandon Nunziale 
Christopher O'Donnell 
Katy Peng 
David Rojas 

============================= 

"MASS" MAILING (no pun intended!): 
Please, if you have not sent your contact information in - now is the time to do it! it would be wonderful if we could keep our returned mail to a minimum for the snail-mailing, so if you think we are missing any address information from the master list, please send it in ASAP. 

============================= 

A "ROBE" OF MANY COLORS: 
We are collecting traditional graduation type gowns (of any color) for a special children's choir project. If you have any old robes gathering dust around the house, in the basement, in the attic, etc... PLEASE send them to us! For information on where to send the robes, please send an email to: alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org 

============================= 

THAT'S ENTERTAINMENT... 
Not only has St. Mary's created some highly intelligent individuals, but oh so talented too! Alumni from the SMS classes of 1984, 1986 and Confraternity/CCD 1981, will provide some of the entertainment at the homecoming. 

============================= 

TIME PASSAGES... 
We are so happy to have been put in contact with Cecelia Scotland - Omara, alumnus of the Class of 1925. Cecelia graduated 79 years ago and Mrs. Omara is, to our knowledge, the eldest of our honored alumni. 
We were thrilled to have received the following email from her neighbor Joanne M. class of 1960: 

"I was sure you would be pleased to hear about Ceil (as she is called). I see her all the time. She lives 2 houses away from me... Im sure she will be happy to talk about her school years! I plan to bring her to the festivities...Will let you know Take care, Joanne" 

In addition, Mary Bennetti from the class of 1928 has also contacted us. Alma Mater St. Mary, your children are coming-home to you! If you have a friend or relative who graduated during that era, would you please let us know? That generation tends not to have Internet access, and therefore has probably not been receiving our e-newsletters. We would love you hear from you, about them. 

============================= 

FROM CHALK BOARDS TO CHAT BOARDS: 
The SMS chat boards are really taking off, and if you have not joined in yet we're waiting! Last time we checked there were thousands of views to the chats and tons of new members every day! Not bad for an alumni association that isn't even a year old! Just sign into the BVM message boards here: http://www.stmarysofwinfield.com 

============================= 

...SO EXCITED 'CAUSE WE'RE REUNITED HEY HEY! 
The class of 1947 is planning a reunion along with the classes of 55, 56, 80, 84 & 86 and the cadets. Specific information is listed below: 

Graduation year 1947 needs help locating its' members. If you know of anyone who graduated from St. Mary's during this time period, please urge him or her to contact us. It is VERY difficult to find people from almost 60 years ago - ESPECIALLY the girls because they take married names. 

Blue Angels / Cadets reunion posted. Organizer Susan O'Neil. Please respond if interested. If enough of you respond Susan will proceed with organizing the event. You can join the Cadets chat at this website: 
http://stmarys.proboards20.com/index.cgi?board=general&action=display&num=1078070391 

If you want to plan a reunion, or if you are already planning a reunion for your class, please let us know so we can post the information accordingly. For further information or to contact your class-reps and/or classmates, just drop us an email and we will forward it to the appropriate parties. Send your submissions and inquiries to: alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org. See the reunion pages here: http://www.stmarysdramaguild.org/alumnireunions.htm 

============================= 

SET 'EM UP JOE... 
We are putting our volunteer list together for setup and breakdown duty. We have gotten a few people on-board from the last few newsletters, and if you are going to be in the area Friday evening (June 11th), Saturday (June 12th) before 3:00pm or Saturday after the cocktail party and would like to volunteer for either one of these duties, please send an email to: alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org 

============================= 

MAMA DON'T TAKE MY KODACHROME AWAY... 
Great new "Our Parish Voice" photos from the 70's including the 1977 block party, the bicentennial celebrations from the 60's we have the cadets, the cheerleaders, baseball at tymon field! Just click into "photos" on this page: http://www.stmarysdramaguild.org/alumni150.htm 

============================= 

SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE WAS A HUGE SUCCESS... NEXT ONE IN JUNE! 
Open house big success. Great to see so many alumni with their children. Many of our graduates who have moved away are dropping their children off with Grandma and Grandpa on the way to work. These school-age children are continuing the tradition now enrolling in St. Mary's for the September term. We're sure that Grandma and Grandpa are thrilled too! 

Even the 8th grade boys have stayed until 6 and 7pm making huge banners and cutting and pasting letters. It would really make you proud to see the boys working so hard to keep St. Mary's going strong. They love their school just we do! Come June they will be the newest addition to the Alumni Association. Very nice. 

Call the school for registration information, you don't have to wait until June! 

============================= 

HOLY-HUMOR... 

A father wanted to read a magazine but was being bothered by his little girl, Shannon. Finally, he tore a sheet out of his magazine on which was printed the map of the world. 


Tearing it into small pieces, he gave it to Shannon, and said, "Go into the other room and see if you can put this together." 

After a few minutes, Shannon returned and handed him the map correctly fitted together. The father was surprised and asked how she had finished so quickly. 

"Oh," she said, "on the other side of the paper is a picture of Jesus. When I got all of Jesus back where He belonged, then the world came together." 


============================= 

ALUMNI IN NEED OF YOUR PRAYERS: 

MARY JANE CURRY '55: 
"Just made a phone call to find out how my classmate, Mary Jane Curry, was doing. Sadly, she passed away on Sunday. I had known she was ill with bone cancer, and thought she'd have lasted longer. I only found her about 3 weeks ago, but was lucky to have had a 20 minute chat with her. I sent her a copy of the graduation picture, and had put her in touch with another classmate who lived on her block as kids. She left her 87 year old mom and 2 siblings." 
-Mary K. '55 

Mary K. class of 1955 has arranged with rectory secretary Frances, to have masses said at St. Mary's for Mary Jane Curry and Ed Voska, the two most recent losses to our alumni association. Mary Jane's mass is April 30 at 12 noon, and Ed's is on the anniversary of his passing, August 20th. 

FRANK MCPARTLAND '43 
He had a stroke five years ago. He remembers everything from years ago including classmates and friends. He is in a wheelchair and paralyzed on one side. Thanks for inquiring and say a prayer for him. -Bob 

============================= 

WE NEED SOME DISNEY MAGIC...! 
If you (or anyone you know) is discarding VHS videotapes of Disney movies, Classic Disney cartoons, or any other type of children's videos (such as The Wizard of Oz, Charlotte's Web, March of the Wooden Soldiers, Fantasia, etc...), please reply to this email. The alumni association would like to collect and donate them to the BVM after school video library. Please reply to this email: alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org 

============================= 

OLD WINFIELD BUFFS: 
By far the greatest resource for Winfielders and Winfield Buff's is this 1873 census map of Winfield. There is nothing quite like it, and it has the original St. Mary's buildings noted. It is a truly amazing historical document: 
http://www.bklyn-genealogy-info.com/Map/Winfield.html 

OTHER WINFIELD AREA WEBSITES: 
http://freepages.nostalgia.rootsweb.com/~bwickham/metpics.htm 
http://www.astorialic.org/starjournal/1910s/1915april.shtm 
http://www.newsday.com/extras/lihistory/spectown/hist0017.htm 
http://www.forgotten-ny.com/ 
http://www.trainsarefun.com/lirrphotos/towers/Tower-Win-WinfieldJct-1967.jpg 
http://www.sunysb.edu/libmap/nypath1.htm 

============================= 

LINK OF THE MONTH CLUB: MONDAY'S CHILD... 
From Cathy B. '68: 
http://217.154.97.2/dob/index.asp 

============================= 

150TH ANNIVERSARY OPENING CEREMONY MAY 9, 2004: 
Bishop Daily will be the principal celebrant at the 150th Anniversary opening ceremony at the 12:30 mass on May 9, 2004 (Mother's day). The day will begin at 11:30 with a May crowning of our Blessed Mother, Anniversary cards and a special rosary. We will keep you posted. For a full calendar of events, keep checking the alumni home pages here: http://www.stmarysdramaguild.org/alumni150.htm 

============================= 

IF I HAD A HAMMER... 
Thanks to Pat Casey, we will be constructing an official memorabilia room, for which the anniversary committee will be accepting display items. 

We have already received a photo of the 25th anniversary of Father (later Monsignor) Fox's ordination into the priesthood. It is a scroll about 30 inches long and it is dated June 2, 1942, from Paul T. class of 1947. 

All memorabilia on loan to St. Mary's church will be returned at the end of 2005, after the anniversary year has come to a close. If you have something you consider to be an exceptional piece of St. Mary's history and would like to offer it for display, PLEASE reply to this email: alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org 

============================= 

CAN YOU HEAR ME NOW? 
Those of you in the area that would like to help the alumni committee by making special announcements for the June homecoming at Saturday and/or Sunday masses, please reply to this email. 

It would be really nice to see some old, familiar faces making these alumni announcements, especially if we haven't seen you in a while. It's not a big commitment... just a few pre-written sentences before we leave church, any weekend you're available. It would be so nice to get our little "shin-dig" off to a good start with a variety of people helping to spread the word. Let's show them our alumni association is "alive and kickin'!!!" We would love to see you, and we could sure use the help. If you reply to this email, we'll make sure you get all the information you need ASAP! Just reply to: alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org 

============================= 

THERE'S A RIBBON IN THE SKY FOR OUR LOVE 
The homecoming children's art show is being planned, and every participant will receive a special ribbon commemorating their unique and special contribution to the homecoming event. Elizabeth, an alumnus of the class of '57, is donating the ribbons but a theme has yet to be decided (alumni, graduation, 150th anniversary, etc.) If you have any suggestions for an appropriate theme for this art exhibition, Please reply to: alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org 

============================= 

2004 PARISH HAPPENINGS: 
* Carmelite sisters retreat weekend: March 5th to the 7th 
* Passionists of Bishop Molloy, men's retreat: March 5th to the 7th 
* 2005 Mass Book opened March 1st 
* Reconciliation retreat at St. Mary's March 8th through the 11th 
* Holy Ghost Father's Irish Heritage tour May 16th through the 27th 
* Lenten day of prayer at St. Mary's Saturday March 27th. 
* 150th Anniversary Pilgrimage to Paris, Lisieux, Lourdes, Burgos & Fatima will be this October. If interested please reply to this email immediately and we will send you the contact information. 

If interested please reply to this email immediately and we will send you the contact information. 

============================= 

CLASSMATES... DOT... COM... 
There are MANY alumni listed on the www.classmates.com website. We have tried to contact all of them, but unfortunately most of them have not responded. If you think you may have better luck at it, why don't you search for your graduation year at the St. Mary's section of their website found here: 
http://www.classmates.com/cmo/user/school/list.jsp?startYear=1900&communityId=17028731 

If you do get in contact with an old friend or two, please have them contact us so we can get them on the list! Just have them send an email to: Alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org 

============================= 

HOUSTON, WE HAVE A PROBLEM... 
To ensure delivery of your alumni newsletter, make sure to add us to your "Trusted Senders" list (especially Outlook for Windows XP users). Make sure to clear alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org as approved and not "junk mail." Because we use a "BCC" (blind carbon copy) on our e-mailings, Spam filters may block our newsletter from your inbox. *** ESPECIALLY AOL AND HOTMAIL USERS *** 

============================= 

VIRUS WARNINGS: 
Have you have been receiving strange email from people you don't know - with weird attachments that make no sense? If the answer was "YES," then one of your friends may have sent you a new computer virus called "NETSKY" AND/OR "BEAGLE" We have been receiving it at the alumni email, so a few of you MUST have it. You can read about it and download a free "removal tool" from Symantec (The Norton Anti-Virus people). Just click here for more information: 
http://securityresponse.symantec.com/avcenter/venc/data/w32.netsky.d@mm.html 

============================= 

YESTERDAY, TODAY AND TOMORROW 
AD JESUM PER MARIAM 

March 2, 2004
Fellow Alumni, Parishioners and Friends,
Spring training, spring fever, you name it spring is in the air!   March sure did come in like a lamb around old Winfield this year.  The Lenten season is off to a good start with spiritual retreats and honor roll news!  There is a wealth of new information below including a nostalgic look at old Winfield and the link of the month club!  Please enjoy!
=============
NEITHER RAIN NOR HAIL NOR SLEET NOR DARK OF NIGHT:  We are currently creating the 1^st regular mail newsletter, which will be sent within the next month or so.  Please, if you have not sent your contact information in - now is the time to do it!  With the large volume of graduates and faculty that have already responded, it would be wonderful if we could keep our returned mail to a minimum.  If you think we are missing any information (or people) from the master list, please send it in ASAP.  See past E-newsletters here: http://www.stmarysdramaguild.org/alumninewsletter.htm
=============
150TH ANNIVERSARY OPENING CEREMONY MAY 9, 2004: Bishop Daily will be the principal celebrant at the 150th Anniversary opening ceremony at the 12:30 mass on May 9, 2004 (Mother's day).  The day will begin at 11:30 with a May crowning of our Blessed Mother, Anniversary cards and a special rosary.  We will keep you posted.  For a full calendar of events, keep checking the alumni home pages here:  http://www.stmarysdramaguild.org/alumni150.htm
=============
HOMECOMING CELEBRATION JUNE 12, 2004:
* All alumni are invited to attend the 2004 commencement exercises in the church the evening of Friday June 11, 2004.
* Saturday afternoon's homecoming festivities will begin with a light reception in the Auditorium.
*We will have student art show in honor of the 150th anniversary
*Next we will celebrate the 5:00pm mass together as the St. Mary's family that we are.  "Praising God together we are one"
* Finally a sea of blue and gold will be the setting for the homecoming cocktail party with horsd'oeuvres, refreshments and live entertainment.

PLEASE NOTE: We have already started collecting RSVPs (mainly for refreshment planning).  If we have not heard from you, please drops us a line and let us know whether or not you are coming.  It will REALLY help with the catering.  Just send an email to:  alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org.   Homecoming news can be found here: http://www.stmarysdramaguild.org/alumni150.htm

=============
150TH ANNIVERSARY JOURNAL: Many of you remember the 100^th and 125^th Anniversaries and the beautiful journals that commemorated them.  If you were one of the many who have been inquiring about reserving space in the 150^th Anniversary journal, we will begin reserving space shortly.  Whether your page commemorates your class, your family or a personal intention, we should have more journal information available in the newsletter that will go via first-class mail at the end of this month!  For further information send an email to:  alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org
=============
BVM ALUMNI STILL MAKING US PROUD!

The Mary Louis Academy Honor Roll:
* Rachel Flynn, Class of 2003
* Elizabeth Zecca
Cathedral Prep Seminary H.S. Honor Roll:
* Thomas Bilach
MINISTRY:
Christopher Gonzalez, Class of 2000, was installed as a Eucharistic Minister at the 12:30 mass this past Sunday, February 29, 2004.
=============
IF WE BUILD IT THEY WILL COME: Thanks to Pat Casey, we will be constructing an official memorabilia room, for which the anniversary committee will be accepting display items.  All memorabilia on loan to St. Mary's church will be returned at the end of 2005, after the anniversary year has come to a close.  If you have something you consider to be an exceptional piece of St. Mary's history and would like to offer it for display, PLEASE reply to this email:  alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org 
=============
NOT-SO CANDID CAMERA: Please see the alumni photos pages for new pictures from the 1930's, 1940's, 1960's & 1970's.  The class of 1939 photo is just great, and I love the matching taffeta gowns!  What a different time it was back then.  In the new 1943 photos you can see the subtle changes that have occurred to the school building over the last 61 years.  Just click into "photos" on this page:  http://www.stmarysdramaguild.org/alumni150.htm
=============
"THEMES" LIKE OLD TIMES: The homecoming children's art show is being planned, and every participant will receive a special ribbon commemorating their unique and special contribution to the homecoming event.  Elizabeth, an alumnus of the class of '57, is donating the ribbons but a theme has yet to be decided (alumni, graduation, 150th anniversary, etc.)  If you have any suggestions for an appropriate theme for this art exhibition, Please reply to: alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org 
=============
FAMILIAR FACES: Those of you in the area that would like to help the alumni committee by making special announcements for the June homecoming at Saturday and/or Sunday masses, please reply to this email.  It would be really nice to see some old, familiar faces making these alumni announcements, especially if we haven't seen you in a while.  It's not a big commitment... just a few pre-written sentences before we leave church, any weekend you're available.  It would be so nice to get our little "shin-dig" off to a good start with a variety of people helping to spread the word.  Let's show them our alumni association is "alive and kickin'!!!"  We would love to see you, and we could sure use the help.  If you reply to this email, we'll make sure you get all the information you need ASAP!  Just reply to: alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org
=============
FROM BLACK BOARDS TO CHAT BOARDS: The SMS chat boards are really taking off, and if you have not joined in yet we're waiting!  Last time we checked there were 8 Separate Topics with over 904 views to the chats and 41 new members!  Not bad for an alumni association that isn't even a year old!  Just sign into the BVM message boards here: http://www.stmarysofwinfield.com
=============
THE LINK OF THE MONTH CLUB:
This link came to us from Fr. Berran:
http://www.thebigview.com/pastlife/
These links came from Elizabeth '57:
http://www.dmarie.com/timecapsule
If you see an interesting, nostalgic website and want to share it, send it to us and we'll try to put it in if time and space allow.
=============
THE HOMECOMING TEAM ADVANTAGE: We are putting our volunteer list together for setup and breakdown duty.  We have gotten a few people on-board from the last few newsletters, and if you are going to be in the area Friday evening (June 11th), Saturday (June 12th) before 3:00pm or Saturday after the cocktail party and would like to volunteer for either one of these duties, please send an email to:  alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org 
=============
CELEBRATE THE MOMENTS OF YOUR LIFE...
1928   Anton            Posavetz
1929   Marie            McCauley-Coster
1930   Peter            Calamari
At 90 years of age, Mr. Posavetz is, to our knowledge, the eldest of our honored alumni.  We are thrilled to have received the following email from his granddaughter, Mary:
Dear (Alumni Association),
I just wanted to let you know that my grandfather has been working on a story of remembrances from his elementary school days at St. Mary's.  I will send it to you when he is done.
Yours,
Mary
If you have a friend or relative who graduated during that era, would you please let us know?  That generation tends not to have Internet access, and therefore has probably not been receiving our e-newsletters.  We would love you hear from you, about them.
=============
HOMECOMING LITURGY: Do you know of any alumni who have answered God's call?  Fr. Kenneth Boller, class of 1960, will be celebrating the alumni 5:00 mass.  As we begin to plan this homecoming liturgy, we are actively gathering a contact listing for alumni in ministry and service to the Lord such as priests, brothers, sisters, deacons, etc. to participate.  If you can help us please send an email to: alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org 
=============
NEEDLE IN A HAYSTACK: The following classes need a "class rep" to take charge of locating missing classmates, many records are incomplete and obsolete and/or missing, and some alumni are not represented at all:
1927 and before, 1929, 1931-1938, 1941-1946, 1948-1949, 1951, 1953, 1958-1959, 1964, 1968, 1973, 1987, 1989-1991, 1993-1994, 1996 to 1999, and 2001 to present
=============
LOOK FOR THE RE-UNION LABEL: The class of 1947 is planning a reunion along with the classes of 55, 56, 80, 84 & 86 and the cadets.  Specific information is listed below:

Graduation year 1947 needs help locating its' members.  If you know of anyone who graduated from St. Mary's during this time period, please urge him or her to contact us.  It is VERY difficult to find people from almost 60 years ago - ESPECIALLY the girls because they take married names.

Blue Angels / Cadets reunion posted.  Organizer Susan O'Neil.  Please respond if interested.  If enough of you respond Susan will proceed with organizing the event.  You can join the Cadets chat at this website:
http://stmarys.proboards20.com/index.cgi?board=general&action=display&num=1078070391

If you want to plan a reunion, or if you are already planning a reunion for your class, please let us know so we can post the information accordingly. For further information or to contact your class-reps and/or classmates, just drop us an email and we will forward it to the appropriate parties.  Send your submissions and inquiries to:  alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org.  See the reunion pages here: http://www.stmarysdramaguild.org/alumnireunions.htm
=============
A "ROBE" OF MANY COLORS: We are collecting traditional graduation type gowns (of any color) for a special children's choir project.  If you have any old robes gathering dust around the house, in the basement, in the attic, etc... PLEASE send them to us!  For information on where to send the robes, please send an email to:  alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org 
=============
VIDEO LIBRARY: If you (or anyone you know) is discarding VHS videotapes of Disney movies, Classic Disney cartoons, or any other type of children's videos (such as The Wizard of Oz), please reply to this email.  The alumni association would like to collect and donate them to the BVM after school video library.   Please reply to this email:  alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org 
=============
GIVE PEACE A CHANCE... THE PEACE CORPS THAT IS... Former St. Mary's student, Crissie Ferrara, joined the Peace Corps to work as a missionary teacher helping the poor and less fortunate of the world.  Recently she returned from her South American school house (where they don't even have running water) to speak their pen pals, our own St. Mary's 7th graders.  Crissie's family history with St. Mary's is extensive and dates back to her grandfather, Eugene Calamari Sr., an alumnus of the class of 1928!  If interested in sending Miss Ferrara desperately needed school supplies, reply to : alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org
=============
SEPTEMBER 11TH REMEMBERANCE: We have received word that 2 of our graduates were victims of the 9/11 attack on the World Trade Center.  They are Gary Brown - Class of 1967 and Jerry O'Leary - Class of 1981. Of course, we hope there will be no more additions to this list, however further information can be sent to: alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org
=============
THE STEWARDSHIP FAIR: The Stewardship fair will be held on Palm Sunday, this spring.  If you are still a resident of the area (or even if you're not but want to visit) & have a little talent you would like to share, please think of popping into the Stewardship fair!!  As an alumnus you are already a rich part of St. Mary's history, wouldn't it be wonderful to be a part of the force that will escort St. Mary's into the future! We will keep you posted!
=============
LET THE CHILDREN COME TO ME: Our next FAMILY MASS will be March 28, 2004 at the 10:00am Mass, and all other 10:00am masses are "CHILDREN'S LITURGY" masses, attending to the special needs of our very young parishioners.!!  Please come and bring the kids and the grand-kids... better yet have them join us!

Speaking of the children, we're anxiously awaiting the 3rd press of our own The St. Mary's Children's Choir CD.  They should also be available in the back of the church at the next family mass on March 28th.  So far it's been an awesome fund-raiser, and if you were one of the many who got your copy "hot off the presses" - we thank YOU for your generous support!!!  If you would like to receive a copy, please mail your order form with suggested $10.00 donation to: St Mary's School     Attn: Children's Choir CD     70-20 47th Avenue     Woodside, NY  11377 ** Please include $2.50 for shipping/handling if you can't pick up **
=============
2004 PARISH HAPPENINGS:
* Carmelite sisters retreat weekend: March 5th to the 7th
* Passionists of Bishop Molloy, men's retreat: March 5th to the 7th
* 2005 Mass Book opened March 1st
* Reconciliation retreat at St. Mary's March 8th through the 11th
* Holy Ghost Father's Irish Heritage tour May 16th through the 27th
* Lenten day of prayer at St. Mary's Saturday March 27th.
* 150th Anniversary Pilgrimage to Paris, Lisieux, Lourdes, Burgos & Fatima will be this October.  If interested please reply to this email immediately and we will send you the contact information.

If interested please reply to this email immediately and we will send you the contact information.
=============
OLD WINFIELD BUFFS: By far the greatest resource for Winfielders and Winfield Buff's is this 1873 census map of Winfield.  There is nothing quite like it, and it has the original St. Mary's buildings noted.  It is a truly amazing historical document:
http://www.bklyn-genealogy-info.com/Map/Winfield.html

The Winfield Business Directory of 1873:
HAMANN             L & J   Groceries        Winfield
HYATT C.                   Farmer & Surveyor        Winfield
KEEGAN, Michael          Contractor/Bridges        Winfield
MINER, J. H.               Carpenter                  Winfield
MERKLEIN F.                Beer Saloon                Winfield
MURPHY, Thomas H.         Attorney & Agent          Winfield
RAMHOLD, Philip   Road House                 Winfield
RUCK, John J.     Coal & Wood                   Winfield
WALL, Thomas      Mason/Builder              Winfield

Remember there WERE no phones in 1873!
=============
CLASSMATES... DOT... COM... There are MANY alumni listed on the www.classmates.com website.  We have tried to contact all of them, but unfortunately most of them have not responded.  If you think you may have better luck at it, why don't you search for your graduation year at the St. Mary's section of their website found here:
http://www.classmates.com/cmo/user/school/list.jsp?startYear=1900&communityId=17028731

If you do get in contact with an old friend or two, please have them contact us so we can get them on the list!  Just have them send an email to: Alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org
=============
ATTENTION AOL & HOTMAIL USERS: To ensure delivery of your alumni newsletter, make sure to add us to your "Trusted Senders" list (especially Outlook for Windows XP users). Make sure to clear alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org as approved and not "junk mail." Because we use a "BCC" (blind carbon copy) on our e-mailings, Spam filters may block our newsletter from your inbox. *** ESPECIALLY AOL AND HOTMAIL USERS ***
=============
VIRUS WARNINGS: Have you have been receiving strange email from people you don't know - with weird attachments that make no sense?  If the answer was "YES," then one of your friends may have sent you a new computer virus called "NETSKY."  We have been receiving it at the alumni email, so a few of you must have it.  You can read about it and download a free "removal tool" from Symantec (The Norton Anti-Virus people).  Just click here for more information:
http://securityresponse.symantec.com/avcenter/venc/data/w32.netsky.d@mm.html
=============
CAN YOU HEAR ME NOW?   We have been sporadically placing short reunion notices in local and regional papers. If there is a publication that you feel may help us reconnect with fellow alumni, please forward their email address to us at:  alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org.  We will send them a press release ASAP

Best Regards and God Bless,
BVM Alumni Association
150th Anniversary Committee

FEBRUARY NEWSLETTER:

February 7, 2004

Fellow Alumni, Parishioners and Friends,

The way things look outside my window; I fear the groundhog was correct! In spite of it all, Catholic schools week starts off for St. Mary's with the annual talent show tomorrow. There are some new news-bits and some old news-bits below. If you have any news to add, please send it in and if time and space allow, we will try to accommodate.

================

ANNIVERSARY OPENING CEREMONY: Time sure does fly! The 150th Anniversary opening ceremonies will be held at the 12:30 mass on May 9, 2004 (Mother's day) in honor of our Blessed Mother, Mary. The principal celebrant will be the Bishop, and we will keep you posted! It should be exciting with a May crowning and special rosary. 

Don't fret all of you Father's out there, a special liturgy will be celebrated in late June in honor of Father's day.

================

MESSAGE BOARDS: The BVM message boards are buzzing with new "threads," People are using it to re-acquaint themselves with former classmates. You can do that too, just sign into the BVM message boards here: http://www.stmarysofwinfield.com

=====================

HOMECOMING CELEBRATION, TENTATIVE PLAN FOR JUNE 12, 2004:
* All alumni are invited to attend the 2004 commencement exercises in the church the evening of Friday June 11, 2004. 
* Saturday afternoon's homecoming festivities will begin with a light reception in the Auditorium. 
*We will have student art show or contests in honor of the 150th anniversary, with alumni judges. 
*Next we will celebrate the 5:00pm mass together as the St. Mary's family that we are. "Praising God together we are one"
* Finally a sea of blue and gold will be the setting for the homecoming cocktail party with hors d'oeuvres, refreshments and live entertainment. PLEASE NOTE: We will need to ask for RSVPs for refreshment planning, more info to follow.

We are unique - we are 150 years old and you're a part of it!


==========================================

HOMECOMING RSVP's: Some form of RSVP's will be needed to plan the Homecoming refreshments, so please remember no one is automatically on the list - we MUST be contacted with updated information such as valid email address, current mailing address, home phone & year of graduation (alumni and confraternity/CCD) for you on file. Please make sure we have this information for your friends and family as well.

=====================

INTERESTING SMS DEMOGRAPHICS: Data is generated from total respondents and is organized by decade.

Out of NYS:
1950-1959 34.0%
1960-1969 26.5%
1970-1979 32.5%
1980-1989 7.0%

Still in NYS:
1950-1959 19.9%
1960-1969 16.1%
1970-1979 44.3%
1980-1989 19.7%

Still in the SMS area:
1950-1959 17.2%
1960-1969 15.1%
1970-1979 34.9%
1980-1989 32.8%

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JOIN THE HOMECOMING TEAM: We are putting our volunteer list together for setup and breakdown duty. We have gotten a few people on-board from last month's newsletter, and if you are going to be in the area Friday evening (June 11th), Saturday (June 12th) before 3:00pm or Saturday after the cocktail party and would like to volunteer for either one of these duties, please send an email to: alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org 

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CALLING ALL IN SERVICE TO THE LORD: Do you know of any alumni who have answered God's call? As we begin to plan the homecoming liturgy, we are actively gathering a contact listing for alumni in ministry and service to the Lord such as priests, brothers, sisters, deacons, etc. If you can help us please send an email to: alumni@stmarysdramaguild.org 

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CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK: Catholic schools week begins Sunday February 8th with the annual talent show. To check on other school events, just visit this page on the school's website: http://users.erols.com/bvmqueens/calender.htm

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FAMILY MASS: The next family mass will be February 29, 2004 at the 10:00am Mass. All other 10:00am masses are "Children's Liturgy" masses, attending to the special needs of our very young parishioners. Please come and bring the kids and the grandkids!

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SING A NEW SONG UNTO THE LORD: The St Mary's Youth Choir Christmas CD is available now!!! The CD's should be available in the back of the church at the next family mass . So far it's been a great fund-raiser, and if you were one of the many who got your copy "hot off the presses" - we thank you for your generous support!!! If you would like to receive a copy, please mail your order form with suggested $10.00 donation to: