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Family Singers Perform In NYC!

By Tyler M. : 5 November 2012

The Family Singers  teamed up with Hancock Central School and Union-Endicott Choir’s  to perform at the world premier of The Christmas Rose at Carnegie Hall.

The play was originally written and composed by Tim Janis under the nameNight of the Shepherd’s and performed on The Family School’s very own stage in December 2011. When given the opportunity to perform in The Christmas Rose; a slight alteration of Night of The Shepherds, The Family School singers were more than eager.

Janis and Family School choir director, Paul Geer have collaborated on many projects including, Celebrate America in 2009, America Christmas Carol in 2010 and Night of the Shepherds in 2011. The connection with Janis provided the students at all three schools an amazing opportunity to perform at Carnegie Hall— one of the world’s most famous venues.

The day started off with a three hour warm-up session at Cary Hall— a practice auditorium where all three schools sang together for the first time. A complete run through of the songs and individual work prepared the singers for the real deal. For many this trip marked some very special milestone­- from a first choir performance to the first trip to the Big Apple, students were in awe during all parts of the day.

Following lunch at a classic BBQ joint, a full dress rehearsal gave the choir a taste of the stage life, from rushing around backstage to acting in close proximity with big name stars. A rush of emotions could be seen on all faces when, “All choir singers please report to the stage entrance,” came over the loud speaker.  As the singers filed onto stage they were looking into a sea of 2,800 seats.  “It was intimidating and awe inspiring to perform in such an historic concert hall,” said Noel C.

When show time rolled around, the singers were more than eager to hit the lime light. “It was interesting and exciting to follow the show from conception to the stage,” said Geer.  Geer who has been with the play since early 2011 finally struck it big, bowing in front of a full house at Carnegie than taking his position on stage conducting the choir.

Jane Seymour, the Christmas Rose’s big name actor played the part of the host, but more importantly she was there to represent, the Open Heart Foundation.  A portion of ticket sales and revenues are donated to the foundation which helps support various charities. The foundation honored two people with an open heart award that evening, one going to Leonard Lauder who is a co-founder of Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery  Foundation and the other award went to Lisa Lori for her close work with Operation Smile and dedication to helping kids in need.

Family Falcons Make a Fabulous Finish

By Tyler M. : 7 November 2012

Rob H (left) and Mike D race side by side at the Bear Mtn Sectional race.
Rob H (left) and Mike D race side by side at the Bear Mtn Sectional race.

The Family School concluded its first season of Cross Country at the Bear Mountain Sectional meet Monday, November 5. Runners, Rob H, Patrick W, Mike D, Mike C and Aviv B-A participated in the class D race.

The race embodied the best five to seven runners from each school creating stiff competition and well experienced runners who came to win.

48 runners participated in the 3.2 mile race around the Bear Mountain Park.  Mike D. represented the Falcons with a time of 20:56, placing 27 overall followed by Rob H. at number 28 with a time of 20:58.  Patrick W. and Aviv B-A followed with a strong finishes was well. Mike C., who normally averages a 20 minute time, was suffering from shin splints and completed the race at number 47.

“For a first time team, the boys did very well. They all stuck it out and gave it their all,” said Coach Tom Cummings. Coaches Jeff Brain, Jenn Culver and Cummings were instrumental in creating the first Family School cross country team and, like the students, this first year was a trial run. “I am grateful for the opportunity to run cross country. I don’t play soccer so I am happy the team was started,” said Patrick W.

Plans for next year may entail a course around the property at the school and a more developed girls’ team. “We want to get more involved and attend more invitational races and other meets in the area,” said Athletic Director Carlton Williams.

Roster:

Coaches: Tom Cummings, Jeff Brain, Jenn Culver

Rob H Mike D
Mike C Pat W
Aviv B-A Lukash S
Nolan W Shannon S
Josh S Eleanor K

Missing Teenager Search Continues

By Tyler M.

Rita Argiros from Eagle Valley SAR prepares search plans with NJ SAR and Sam’s Point SAR team members.
Rita Argiros from Eagle Valley SAR prepares search plans with NJ SAR and Sam’s Point SAR team members.

On the night of January 16, 1987 17 year old Joe Helt left a local party with three acquaintances and was never seen again. It has been 25 years and still no evidence of what happened to him.

The Friday night he disappeared was a pretty typical night for a teenager in Ellenville, NY. There was partying at the local abandoned Mount Cathalia ski lodge where many people saw Helt get into a car with three men, John LaForge, Wade Marks, and Kelly Diaz. The last eye witness account of his whereabouts was the top of Sam’s Point Preserve where Laforge’s Subuaru got stuck in the snow.

Helt and his three companions were enroute to Marks’ house, five miles from Sam’s Point and a quarter mile from Mount Cathalia, when the car got stuck. The boys tried to free the car from the left ditch  where it was stuck in six to eight inches of powder that lined the outside edges of the snow packed road. Helt, who was close friends with Kelly, started walking down the road with nothing but a camouflaged jacket lined with a sweatshirt, high top shoes and a Walkman. The three men continued to try and free the car, but after 15-20 minutes gave up and walked the same direction that Helt had gone.

The three men made it safely back to the Marks’ house never saw Helt again. Diaz and Marks remarked that they would jog for a while, call Helts name, walk and repeat until they arrived at their destination where the three where going to sleep over. Laforge, who was older than the other boys, did not plan to stay the night at Marks’ house.

When Helt failed to show at work the next day at the Napancoh Auction Barn, the owner called Helts’ mother and notified her of his absence. She contacted the police after she checked around for him.

Search efforts where focused on Sam’s Point Preserve and teams geared up during the night and despite snow flurries to searched for evidence of Helts’ whereabouts. Over the next two days a large snow storm hit the area, erasing all foot prints or evidence of direction. For six days NY State Forest Rangers, State Police helicopters, K-9 search teams, local police, local volunteer firefighters and numerous friends, relatives and neighbors investigated the area, but due to lack of evidence and extreme conditions the efforts were called off.

Many officials are focusing efforts to the different paths and trails that the delirious Helt could have taken. The use of alcohol and marijuana mixed with below freezing temperatures made for lethal conditions. The 45 minute walk from Sam’s Point peak to Diaz’s house is a reasonable walk for somebody prepared for the conditions and not under the influence. The switchback road that Helt walked gave many opportunities for hypothermia effects to set in and allow for a deviated path into the woods or snowmobile trails that led even deeper into the woods.

Speculation around the town are common and some are suspicious. The NY State Police have labeled Joe Helt’s disappearance as a lost persons due to the lack of evidence pointing towards foul play. Some former students state that there was a small altercation between Helt and the other three boys about a marijuana deal that almost turned physical. Ranger DET report seeing no evidence of tire trails at the apparent scene.

Family School Dog Corps students participated in a search for evidence of the lost boy. The search was a joint effort by Sam’s Point Search and Rescue, Eagle Valley Search and Rescue and New Jersey Search and Rescue.

The three friends, John, Wade, and Kelly have suffered with the unbearable load of losing a friend. For 27 years this tragedy has been a mystery in Ellenville, NY and many friends, family and alumni want to know what happened to Mr. Helt. If you have a tip, no matter how small you may think it to be, we urge you to call the lead investigator in Joe’s case, Mr. Thomas Fortuna of the NYS Police. His direct phone number is 845-626-2863. You can also reach the private investigator working with Joe’s family, Mr. Robert Rahn, at 1-800-490-2267.

Language Teacher Dies From Injuries

Bill Kromer taught Spanish level II and III classes.
By Tyler M

William Kromer, a cherished Spanish teacher at FFS died Wednesday October 3rd due to traumatic injuries from a motorcycle accident August 23 after being struck by a deer on Route 97 in Hancock.
Students and staff at FFS recall Kromer as a very special man with extraordinary talents and lots of blessings. Just as proficient in Spanish as he was English, he retired from Downsville Central School after 30 years and began working at The Family School, where he taught for 8 years.

“He was an honest, straightforward, trustworthy man. I could always trust him and he would try to help me every time we talked,” explains student Luke M. Students all say the same thing; everyone loved him and respected his knowledge on a great level.

A very diverse man who could speak seven languages, play the piano, and had a photographic memory made Kromer such a brilliant, interesting individual. “He was such a good guy, had a great sense of humor and was always outgoing, very willing to take a minute and talk to you, not to mention he was very talented musically,” said Coach Carlton Williams.

It isn’t until someone is gone that you understand how much they mean to you and that is what students at FFS are appreciating now. Whether it be giving moral or academic support or just a good friend, Bill was always there to count on. “Budget cuts years ago forced us to cut back on staff and William was the first one to volunteer to work, he loved helping people out,” says teacher Cindy Argiros.
“Besides his pervasive loving-kindness and compassion, I’ll remember him most for his stories. The man was incredible,” student Dani R says, remembering their conversations together in his classroom. He had a way of looking at you through his thick-framed glasses that showed genuine care for how you were doing. He would listen attentively, and somehow, he would always just understand. The absolute rawness, simplicity, and sincerity that Bill Kromer lived by remains unparalleled by any man I have ever met.

“Dios, me da la serenidad, para aceptar las cosas que no podemos cambiar, el corage para cambiar las que si puedo, y la sabidura para reconecer la diferencia,” Kromer would start every class with this Spanish version of the Serenity prayer; smiling and paying special attention to the true meaning of the words and the immaculate rolling of his “r’s.” He taught in a way that was enthusiastic and engaging, never giving up on even the most self-defeated and unwilling students. Consequently, the kids would gradually open up and learn the curriculum, and Kromer would be there to praise and encourage them right along. Nothing would make him absolutely beam with joy more than when a student would start to believe in themselves as much as he believed in them—except maybe his adorable little terrier puppy, Lupe.

 

Carnivorous Plants Come to Stage

By Tyler M.

“Feed Me!” the blood-thirsty plant screamed as students and their families watched The Family School Players perform the musical Little Shop of Horrors.

Family Day, a semi-annual event at The Family School provides students with an opportunity to show-off their myriad talents to visiting family and guests.

In addition to the theatrical performance, visitors were treated to fresh baked snacks, art displays and student-led tours of the school campus.

The main event, a production of Little Shop of Horrors, combined a six foot tall, talking, carnivorous plant named Audrey II (puppets operated by Kevin P) with a singing and dancing troupe of shop workers (played by Dezi H, Tom M and Noel C).

Add in a diabolical dentist  (played by Luke M) and a band of street urchins (played by Anna F, Jennifer J, Shannon S, Veronica D, Xaimara M and Ali G) and you have the ingredients for a rollicking, if somewhat gruesome, adventure.

Many first time actors such as Tom M, Stefan D performed well during their first debut. Tom has had practice performing on stage with his metal band and his performance clearly reflected such experience. Stefan a star athlete on the soccer and lacrosse team has had  no prior experience with acting, but enjoys singing and is used to being in the limelight.

“Although I most likely will not act on stage again, I still enjoy  performing for an audience and will be singing at Carnegie Hall. This experience has also helped me over come my self consciousness.” Said Tom M, who played the major role of the shop owner. ” At first I was pretty nervous about acting in front of a crowd, but I got over it and gained insight about the performing arts department.” said  Stefan D.

 

 

Falcons Soar Over Bears

 
by Joe T.

They’re back, they’re brutal, and they’re ready to show New York who is the best soccer team in section 9. Coming off a humiliating 7-0 shutout in Downsville, The Family Falcons turned the tables and buried the Tri- Valley Bears with a similar score 8-0, except this time it was the Falcons in the winner’s circle.

Chris B. and Tim R. led the massacre with two goals apiece. Colin M., Lucas V- P., Alan G., and Steve R. all had points as well.

Hosting the Bears in the infamous “Falcons Nest,” the boys came out ready to silence the critics after their disappointing opening game. The beginning of the home opener showed many similarities to the poor playing behavior the boys portrayed in their massive lost from the day before; lack of communication, poor offensive blunders, and lack of team chemistry. Colin M. turned the game around, scoring the first goal of the season, off a rocket corner kick from Tim R. with five minutes left in the first half. “I was just taking a shot Tim delivered perfectly. I’m just happy we got our first goal out of the way. It felt amazing I had the privilege,” said Colin.

Coach Carlton Williams and his Falcons took the late lead and never turned back. Immediately following Colin’s goal, Falcon forward Lucas picked off the ball from the Bear’s speedy offense, and took possession down the field, followed by a strong kick that soared over the opposing goalie.

More offensive heroics were seen, with two minutes remaining, as Chris B. scored off a header from Tim R. again, and Alan G. sealed another goal after a breakaway from mid field with seconds left in the half. Family fans erupted with chants as halftime rolled around with their beloved hosts leading by 4 points.

Now knowing what strength and talent the Falcons possessed, the game blew away the second half with a win written all over for The Family School. Chris B. scored once again, and Tim R. nailed an absolute superb kick, completely out of the reach of Bear’s stunned defense landing in the back pocket of the net. Minutes later Steve R. added his own goal increasing the lead. “We were playing hard, and we kept driving up taking our shots,” said Steve. Tim R. tacked on one last goal to make the final score 8-0 for FFS.

With the help of the back defenders, mainly a zealous returning left stopper Kevin S., leader and other captain center defender Rodrick O., and minor experienced keeper Cameron S. the scoring threats were very rare for the Bears.

The squad will be preparing to perform once again as they welcome Sullivan West and Eldred this week to their campus. “I’m ready to show the other schools were here to stay and play hard,” said Tim R.

Digital Family Times

By Adam B.

For 15 years The Family Foundation School has produced The Family Times newspaper. It was designed to inform parents, students, and alumni about the events occurring on and around campus. Up until recently, this has been enough to satisfy our hungry readers.

As the technological era continues to grow we must grow with it. Instead of receiving the paper every five weeks, readers will now be able to view our website to see the weekly updates. We have also introduced the blogging system to our website to let the readers inside the writer’s mind.

The Family Times is currently undergoing a change from the old to the new. The weekly articles can now be viewed on www.thefamilyschooltimes.com. Cindy Argiros, Family Times editor, has expressed a desire to produce daily updates if possible. We will still produce a printed newspaper every five weeks. Readers who have not yet shifted to the World Wide Web will still be able find out the latest news and read their favorite articles. We will now cover sporting events, campus life, and family trips through a week by week basis. Our readers can take a closer look at the details about what goes on at our school.

Instead of looking at a whole season worth of games for a sport and just viewing the scoreboard, viewers will now be able to follow game by game for every season. All in all this will enable us to better serve our readers and viewers.

Alumni News

Josh R.

Program Graduate June 2010

Family Foundation School alumnus Josh R. stopped by to see his old friends and attend the June graduation ceremony.

Josh is a full time construction worker in Manhattan, New York. He says that he is really enjoying the way life has shaped up for him; however, before attending The Family School, his life was anything but enjoyable.

Due to a serious drug addiction and a poor relationship with his family, Josh’s life was heading down a very negative path. It was at that point that his parents sent him to a wilderness program.

Following his experience in the woods, Josh realized he still needed more help. He then willingly came to The Family Foundation School on July 12, 2008.

“Right from the start I struggled adapting to the people around me,” Josh said. “I could not find myself being able to open up to anyone or become honest.”

Josh made friends here at the school through chorus and soccer and with their help overcame his difficulties. Josh kept striving to improve himself and show that he wanted the change that was being offered at the school. “I now really do realize this place saved my life. I owe a lot of my progress to the school,” said Josh.

He departed from FFS on June 26, 2010 as a program graduate.

He continued his schooling at home and now has a full time job that he loves. When asked if he had any advice for the newcomer Josh said, “Just remember life gets better. I would recommend you find someone who you trust, and start by opening up to them.”

Alumni News

Cresse M.
Class of December 2010

On June 9 Cresse M. returned with fellow alumnus, Lana G., to share her experience, strength, and hope with friends at The Family Foundation School.

Cresse arrived at FFS on June 15, 2009 for drug abuse and horrendous relationships at home. “I was truly the definition of self will run riot. I did whatever, whenever,” Cresse said, describing her lifestyle before FFS.

With the help of the girls in her family, Talbot House, Cresse was able to make the changes she needed so she would be eligible to graduate from the school in December 2010.

Her last six months were the most exciting of her stay as she was awarded the kitchen internship. “That work study was one of the most beneficial jobs I have ever had. I learned how to work as hard as I can, which will be useful,” said Cresse.

With a diploma in her hand and a novelty experience ahead, Cresse left her home in South Carolina and moved to Brooklyn, NY.

She found sobriety hard at first, but after finding an inspirational sponsor she kept the knowledge she had learned over the past years and applied it to her life. “My sponsor is so awesome. She keeps me going, and now my life is manageable thanks to her help,” Cresse said

Now Cresse attends school and is an active meeting maker. She keeps striving to help others, and work on herself to become an even better young woman.