Stephanie

	School	Story
	Transfiguration 1998-2007	Stephanie was originally set to attend Sacred Heart in Hartsdale, but a conversation with Cheryl from Ann & Andy’s changed everything. Cheryl shared a troubling experience her child had with a particularly harsh teacher at Sacred Heart and instead recommended Transfiguration School, where her own children had flourished. Wasting no time, Doreen scheduled an appointment with the principal, Mrs. Henshaw, an old-school disciplinarian known for her strict but effective leadership. Determined to make a good impression, Doreen dressed in her best and secured Stephanie’s spot at Transfiguration. This decision would set the stage for an enriching and memorable education from kindergarten through eighth grade. From the very beginning, Stephanie showed confidence and excitement about going to school. She couldn’t wait to board the school bus, even at a very young age. Ed and Doreen fondly remember her eagerness as she confidently waved you off, letting you know she was ready to take on the day. Her early independence and strength were clear signs of the determined and capable person she was becoming. Stephanie quickly adapted to life at Transfiguration, forming lifelong friendships, including a special bond with Kelly Tracy, who would remain one of her closest friends for years to come. Her journey wasn’t without its challenges, as she encountered a very strict and old-school second-grade teacher whose stern methods left a lasting impression. Despite this, Stephanie with Doreen's quidance excelled academically and socially. In fifth grade, she joined the basketball team coached by Kelly’s father, Mr. Tracy, where she developed both her athletic skills and her love for the sport. She also embraced her creative side as a twirler, adding a unique flair to her school years. Her time at Transfiguration was filled with growth, confidence, camaraderie, and opportunities that shaped her into the well-rounded and self-assured person she became.
	White Plains High School 2007-2008	When it came time for Stephanie to attend high school, her family wanted something different from the all-girls Catholic schools most of her friends were choosing. They sought a diverse and well-rounded environment where Stephanie could interact with both boys and a broader population. White Plains High School stood out as the perfect choice, offering the opportunities and balance they wanted for her. Although her time at White Plains High School was brief, Stephanie made her presence known, even though she was naturally a bit shy. One of her social studies teachers quickly recognized her potential and enthusiasm, nominating Stephanie for an award and encouraging her to join a special committee. This opportunity allowed Stephanie to spend a week upstate at Cornell University, participating in a farming and agricultural program. It was a unique and enriching experience that expanded her horizons. Additionally, the program opened doors for Stephanie to work for the city of White Plains during the summer, giving her hands-on exposure to new responsibilities and skills. Stephanie’s talents weren’t limited to academics. As a freshman, she made the varsity basketball team—a significant accomplishment that highlighted her dedication and athleticism. While this achievement was exciting, it stirred some controversy among parents of older players, who were upset about a younger player earning a spot. However, Stephanie’s hard work and skill spoke for themselves, proving she deserved her place on the team. Her time at White Plains High School may have been short, but it was filled with accomplishments, growth, and memorable experiences that set the stage for her continued success.
	Jupiter Community High School 2008-2011	Stephanie’s high school years took an unexpected turn when her father, Edward, relocated the family to Florida for a new job. Just a month into her sophomore year, Stephanie found herself uprooted from the familiar surroundings of White Plains and beginning anew at Jupiter High School. The transition was challenging, as Stephanie struggled with leaving behind her friends, her community, and the routines she knew so well. The first year brought its share of difficulties, including moments of anxiety as she worked to adjust to her new environment. Despite these challenges, Stephanie displayed remarkable resilience and determination. She focused on her studies, achieving academically high grades and dedicating herself to her coursework. Her ability to overcome obstacles and maintain her commitment to excellence was a testament to her strength of character. Stephanie continued her passion for basketball at Jupiter High, playing on both the JV and varsity teams for three years. While she didn’t crack the starting five, her dedication to the sport and her team never wavered. She remained a valued member of the program, demonstrating persistence and teamwork both on and off the court. Stephanie’s time at Jupiter High School was defined by her ability to adapt, persevere, and succeed in the face of change. Her academic achievements and continued involvement in basketball highlighted her unwavering drive, setting the stage for her future accomplishments.
	University of West Florida 2011-2013	When it was time for Stephanie to choose a college, the family embarked on a road trip across Florida, visiting several schools to find the perfect fit. Ultimately, Stephanie chose the University of West Florida in Pensacola—a decision that surprised everyone, considering it was a 9½-hour drive from home. The long trek to Pensacola became a family adventure (and ordeal), but despite the dread of the journey, they all made it through. Stephanie spent two years at UWF, earning her Associate of Arts degree while focusing her studies on science and biology. Her time at the university was marked by personal growth and meaningful connections. Stephanie formed close friendships that have lasted to this day, finding a supportive community that made her time at UWF truly special. Though far from home, Stephanie thrived in her new environment, exploring her interests in biology and building a foundation for her future. Her time at the University of West Florida wasn’t just about academics—it was about discovering herself, forming lifelong bonds, and taking an important step toward her goals.
	University of Central Florida 2013-2016	After two years at the University of West Florida, Stephanie knew it was time to take the next step in her educational journey. UWF had been a great starting point, but Stephanie set her sights on the University of Central Florida (UCF) in Orlando. During a campus visit, she was captivated by the energy and beauty of the school, particularly the serene pond at the heart of campus. It was clear that UCF was the perfect place for her to continue pursuing her goals. Edward fondly recalls taking Stephanie to her UCF orientation around Father’s Day in a brand-new red Corvette, rented as a Father’s Day gift. The car wasn’t just for show—Stephanie even got to drive the “beast” part of the way home, an unforgettable memory for both father and daughter. At UCF, Stephanie hit her stride academically and socially. She lived on campus for two semesters before moving off campus, where she expanded her circle of friends. One of her new friendships was with a girl from her hometown of Jupiter. Although they hadn’t known each other well in high school, their connection was strengthened through mutual friends and shared experiences at UCF. Stephanie graduated with a degree in biomedical sciences, a rigorous prerequisite for medical school, along with a minor in psychology. Her time at UCF was a testament to her hard work and determination, paving the way for her future in the sciences. The journey from her starter college to UCF was one of growth, discovery, and lasting friendships, marking an important chapter in Stephanie’s life.

Eric

	School	Story
	Transfiguration 2001-2007
	Mamaroneck Avenue Elementary 2007-2008
	White Plains Middle School - Highlands Campus 2008
	Jupiter Middle School 2008-2011
	Jupiter Community High School 2011-2015
	University of South Florida 2015-2016
	West Virginia University 2016-2019

Will

	School	Story
	Farminton High School
	Weber State University

Ed

	School	Story
	PS 15 1969-1975 Facebook	Edward attended PS 15 for more than seven + years, starting in kindergarten prematurely alongside his sister, who had begun school a bit earlier than expected. His earliest memories at PS 15 include causing plenty of chaos, like the time he knocked over paint stand, sending splashes and stains everywhere. Ed also remembers taking nap time next to the cookie stash. Walking to school with his brother and sisters down Hollywood Avenue was a daily ritual, but the real fun often started on the way. Edward and his friend Jimmy had a mischievous streak, using water pistols to playfully ambush Catholic school kids walking nearby. PS 15, an old and sprawling school expanded over the years, provided endless opportunities for adventure. One favorite memory was discovering a shortcut near the library that led through the boiler room and to the back of the stage in the cafeteria—a thrilling exploration for a young boy. The school also held exciting year end events, like a softball game between teachers and parents. Edward vividly remembers a new music teacher who was a former college and semi-pro baseball player. This new teacher ran across the outfield in his leather shoes during practice, only to slip and fall on the blacktop, dislocating his shoulder. The Ed stayed with him until the nurse arrived. PS 15 wasn’t just a place for academics—it was home to the best hill for sledding and the perfect field for playing “cat and mouse.” Edward recalls the thrill of running down the hill during the game, only to be tackled and end up with broken fingers.
	Walt Whitman Junior High 1975-1978	Edward attended Walt Whitman Junior High for two years, completing seventh and eighth grade. Each day, he walked to school regardless of the weather—rain, shine, or snow—building a routine that emphasized discipline and commitment. One of Edward’s memorable classes was woodshop, where he admittedly struggled. Despite his challenges, he passed the class, realizing early on that his strengths lay in academics rather than hands-on woodworking. This period marked a shift in his focus toward academic pursuits, shaping his future priorities. Walt Whitman Junior High introduced Edward to the concept of using a locker with a combination lock, a small but significant milestone that added to the sense of growing independence. In seventh grade, Edward often hung out with his friend Billy Fields, getting into mischief that earned them the attention of their teachers. Eventually, the school staff separated the pair, a move that turned out to be beneficial. Freed from distractions, Edward began to concentrate on his studies and saw a noticeable improvement in his performance. One teacher, in particular, stood out—Ms. McGee, the science teacher. She owned two (or maybe three) Dobermans, which fascinated Edward and left a lasting impression. Under her guidance, Edward excelled in science, finding both the subject and her teaching style inspiring. These years at Walt Whitman Junior High provided Edward with early lessons in focus, discipline, and the importance of balancing work and play, laying the groundwork for his future success.
	Roosevelt High School 1978-1981	Edward attended Roosevelt High School during a unique time in its history—his class was the first in years to complete a full four years at the school. Roosevelt had recently undergone renovations, adding a new classroom wing and upgrading the football field with cement stands, making it a hub of activity and school pride. As a sophomore, Edward briefly joined the JV football team—not out of a love for the sport, but because of a bet with a friend. While he didn’t take the game too seriously, he played until a concussion convinced him to focus on other priorities. After that, Edward shifted his attention to work, setting up a schedule that allowed him to finish school early and start work in the afternoons. Edward was one of the first among his peers to get a driver’s license, and he drove to school regularly, parking across the street. While he didn’t participate in many after-school activities, he made it a point to attend Roosevelt’s football games, even though the team wasn’t as strong as in previous years. Roosevelt High School was a stepping stone for Edward, providing him with the foundation to pursue his ambitions and develop a strong work ethic, balancing his responsibilities between school and work.
	Iona College 1981-1983	Edward’s journey to college began with mixed results on the SATs—he excelled in math but struggled with the English section. He applied to two schools, Iona College and Fordham University, but ultimately only gained acceptance to Iona. This turned out to be a blessing in disguise, as the small campus provided a welcoming environment for Edward to focus on his studies and adjust to college life. Balancing a rigorous schedule, Edward worked nearly full-time at night and on weekends while attending classes during the day. Despite the demanding routine, he thrived in his coursework, particularly enjoying business law and math classes. The structured core curriculum helped him build a strong foundation for his future studies in finance. Edward appreciated the small, close-knit campus and made several friends along the way. He regularly visited the gym and became a fan of the pizza across the street on North Avenue, which became a staple of his college experience. While he found joy in many aspects of campus life, Edward never attended any sporting events, instead focusing his time on academics, work, and socializing with friends. Iona provided Edward with a solid start to his college career, setting the stage for the next chapter of his education when his family relocated to Florida.
	University of South Florida 1983-1985	Edward vividly remembers coming home from finals during his sophomore year at Iona College and seeing a note on the refrigerator: Mom and Dad were moving to Florida. This sudden change prompted Edward to apply to the University of South Florida (USF), and he was thrilled to be accepted. Transitioning to USF turned out to be a fantastic experience. Edward pursued a Bachelor of Science in Finance, finding the campus to be not only beautiful but also highly convenient. He loved that he could easily walk to class from his off-campus housing, and the vibrant campus life offered plenty of opportunities to get involved. One of Edward’s favorite memories from his time at USF was attending numerous basketball games in the Sun Dome, soaking in the energy and excitement of college sports. He also thought it was fascinating that the business school was built underground, a unique architectural feature that made his studies even more memorable. Over his final two years at USF, Edward embraced the opportunities and challenges of his program, completing his degree and building a strong foundation for his future in finance.
	LIU	While working at New York Life Insurance Company, which offered tuition reimbursement, Edward decided to further his education and applied to the Mercy campus of Long Island University (LIU). Excited to expand his skills, he enrolled in several classes. However, he quickly realized that much of the coursework felt like a repetition of undergraduate material, lacking the innovation and challenge he had hoped for. Believing his time could be better spent on practical, career-enhancing skills, Edward shifted his focus. Instead of pursuing traditional coursework, he began exploring certifications in Microsoft products, application development, and database design. These certifications provided hands-on, technical expertise that aligned with the evolving needs of the business world, enabling him to stay ahead in his career. This decision reflected Edward’s pragmatic approach to education and his ability to adapt to change, ensuring his efforts were always directed toward meaningful growth and success.

Peter

	School	Story
	PS 15 1940-1944	After being adopted and moving with his new parents to Scarsdale Road, Peter attended PS 15 for a few years. Conveniently located just a few houses away, PS 15 offered an easy commute for young Peter, providing him with a comfortable start to his education. However, when an opening became available at Annunciation School—a newly established Catholic school that had opened in 1939—Peter’s parents seized the opportunity to enroll him. Spots at Annunciation were limited, and securing a place there was a sign of their commitment to providing Peter with a strong foundation in education and faith. The transition from PS 15 to Annunciation marked an important step in Peter’s childhood, blending the stability of his new home with the values and community that his new school offered.
	Annunciation School 1944-1948	After securing a coveted spot at Annunciation School, Peter joined a close-knit community where he stood out in a unique way. In the 1930s and 1940s, adoption was not as common as it is today, and most of Peter’s classmates knew that he was adopted—a detail that set him apart but also highlighted the love and care of his new family. At Annunciation, Peter quickly made friends, including Miles Almond and John Manning, who would remain a part of his childhood memories. Peter became involved in both academics and extracurricular activities, proudly joining the school’s football team and serving as an altar boy, contributing to the spiritual and communal life of the school. Peter’s class had the distinction of being the first to graduate from Annunciation, a milestone that made him and his peers pioneers in the school’s history. In its early years, Annunciation held classes in a house that, years later, became the Tice family home during the late 1960s, 70s, and 80s—a full-circle connection that linked Peter’s past with his family’s future. Peter’s time at Annunciation was marked by friendships, faith, and the beginnings of a legacy that would become intertwined with the school and its community for decades to come.
	Iona Preparatory School 1948-1952	Peter attended Iona Preparatory School in New Rochelle, where he was deeply involved in extracurricular activities that showcased his dedication and versatility. Over his time at Iona, Peter made a mark in various areas, serving on the yearbook staff for three years, participating in the Glee Club as a senior, and competing on the track team for two years, where he focused on the high and low hurdles as well as sprints. Peter’s commitment to these activities and his ability to apply himself made him a valuable member of the Iona Prep community. His efforts reflected not only his work ethic but also his determination to contribute meaningfully to the school’s vibrant student life. However, there was a persistent rumor that Peter’s father had to make a significant donation to ensure he could graduate. While unconfirmed, this story became part of the lore of his time at Iona, adding an intriguing anecdote to his high school experience. Peter’s years at Iona Preparatory School were filled with challenges, growth, and achievements, shaping him into the determined and multifaceted individual he would become.
	St. Josephs College 1952-1954	After graduating from Iona Preparatory School, Peter embarked on a new journey, attending Saint Joseph’s College in Philadelphia, now known as Saint Joseph’s University. He lived in Quirk Hall, immersing himself in college life and embracing the opportunities that came with moving away from home. However, like many students transitioning to life away from home, Peter faced challenges. He missed the comforts of his family, home-cooked meals, and, most of all, his longtime girlfriend, Nancy. Nancy fondly remembers Peter taking the train from New York City all the way to Philadelphia to visit her, demonstrating his devotion despite the distance. Despite his efforts to adjust to life at Saint Joseph’s, the pull of home proved too strong. After a short time, Peter decided to return home and soon made a pivotal decision to join the military, setting the stage for the next chapter of his life. Though his time in Philadelphia was brief, it served as an important stepping stone in his journey of self-discovery, showcasing his dedication to family and love while preparing him for the next phase of his life.
	Iona College 1956-1957	After completing officer training in the Army and earning an honorable discharge, Peter returned home, ready to begin the next chapter of his life. He briefly attended Iona College, enrolling for a semester or two. However, Peter quickly realized that sitting in a classroom wasn’t for him. He preferred hands-on experiences and engaging directly with people—qualities that would define his career. Recognizing that his strengths lay outside traditional academics, Peter made the decision to leave Iona and focus on building a career in Manhattan. This choice marked the beginning of a successful professional journey, where Peter’s energy, determination, and interpersonal skills helped him thrive in the fast-paced environment of New York City. Though he didn’t finish his degree, Peter’s time at Iona reinforced his understanding of what he valued most: meaningful work, personal connections, and the drive to succeed on his own terms.

Pete

	School	Story
	Annunciation School 1964-1968
	PS 15 1968-1971
	Walt Whitman Junior High 1971-1974
	Roosevelt High School 1974-1977
	Westchester Community College 1977-1980
	CUNY-Lehman College 1980-1980
	French Culinary Institute Class 1995

Maryhelen

	School	Story
	Annunciation School 1965-1968
	PS 15 1968-1972
	Walt Whitman Junior High 1972-1974
	Our Lady of Good Counsel 1974-1976
	Roosevelt High School 1976-1978
	Quinnipiac College. 1978-1982
	Pace University. ?

Steve

	School	Story
	Annunciation School 1966-1968
	PS 15 1968-1973
	Walt Whitman Junior High 1973-1977
	Roosevelt High School 1977-1979
	Westchester Community College 1979

Nancy Garst

	School	Story
	PS 15 1941	Nancy attended PS 15 while living in Colonial Heights, a time filled with vivid childhood memories. Living in a large, grand house on Colonial Parkway, she remembers peering out the second-story bathroom window each morning to watch the school bus arrive. There where times when the sight of the bus brought on a sense of dread, she would play sick, hoping to avoid school for the day. The house on Colonial Parkway was beautiful but came with challenges. During the harsh winters of the Great Depression, heating such a large home proved to be an enormous expense. Eventually, Nancy and her family made the difficult decision to move into the city to adapt to the economic hardships of the time. Despite the move and the challenges of the Great Depression, Nancy’s years at PS 15 and her experiences in Colonial Heights remained a defining part of her childhood—a time of both struggle and resilience.
	Annunciation School 1942-1950	After a brief time living in Manhattan and Florida to help her brother with his breathing illness, Nancy and her family returned to Colonial Heights. Settling back into the neighborhood, Nancy attended Annunciation School, where she first became aware of Peter Garst, her future husband. Their paths crossed because one of Nancy’s best friends lived just around the corner from Peter. It wasn’t long before Nancy and Peter began dating, a connection that started late in grade school and would grow over the years. Nancy fondly remembers her mother driving her to school in an old Ford Model T, a simple but cherished memory of those early days. Nancy’s return to Colonial Heights and her experiences at Annunciation marked a pivotal chapter in her life, one that planted the seeds for her future with Peter while reaffirming the bonds of family and community.
	Academy of Our Lady of Good Counsel 1950-1954	After graduating from Annunciation, Nancy attended the Academy of Good Counsel, a Catholic school in White Plains on Route 22. Her time there was filled with both challenges and fond memories. Nancy vividly recalls one of her English teachers declaring her “incorrigible,” a label that only fueled her competitive spirit and determination. Nancy thrived in the school’s athletic programs, enjoying volleyball and basketball. Making the basketball team as a senior was a particularly exciting moment for her. However, the rules of the 1950s women’s basketball era limited her role as a guard—she wasn’t allowed to cross half court or take a shot. Despite these restrictions, Nancy embraced her role with enthusiasm, contributing to the team’s success in other ways. Nancy also enjoyed the commute from Colonial Heights to White Plains. Typically, her journey involved a train ride, a daily ritual that added a sense of adventure and independence to her high school years. The Academy of Good Counsel provided Nancy with a blend of structure, competition, and camaraderie, shaping her into the determined and dynamic person she would become.
	Saint Vincent Hospital 1954-1957	After graduating from high school, Nancy was determined to follow her own path. Despite expectations that she would attend New Rochelle College and train to become a teacher, Nancy had always wanted to help people in a different way—by becoming a nurse. With guidance from the nuns at the Academy of Good Counsel, it was decided that she would attend St. Vincent’s in Manhattan. At St. Vincent’s, Nancy embarked on a rigorous program that combined classes with hands-on training in the hospital. She thrived in this environment, relishing the opportunity to care for patients and gain practical experience while preparing for her future career. Immersed in her studies and surrounded by like-minded peers, she felt a deep sense of purpose as she trained for the career she had always dreamed of. Her time at St. Vincent’s marked the beginning of Nancy’s lifelong commitment to helping others, shaping her into the dedicated nurse and compassionate person her family and patients would come to know and admire.

Dorothy

	School	Story
	PS 15 1969-1975 Facebook
	Walt Whitman Junior High 1975-1978
	Roosevelt High School 1978-1981
	Brandywine College ?
	Westchester Community College ?
	Indian Rivier Community College ?

Others cars

	School	Story
	2005 MAzda RX8	Coming soon!!

Doreen

	School	Story
	PS 36 Bronx 1970-1974 Facebook	Doreen attended PS 36 in the Bronx, located on Castle Hill Avenue. Along with her sister Debbie, she skipped kindergarten and started directly in first grade—a testament to her readiness and enthusiasm for learning from an early age. PS 36 became the foundation for Doreen’s academic journey, shaping her early experiences in education. The bustling Bronx school provided a vibrant environment where Doreen began to develop her love for learning and formed the building blocks for her future success.
	Junior High 125 Bronx 1974-1976 Facebook	Doreen’s academic journey took a significant leap when her class at PS 36 in the Bronx excelled on the IGC test. This achievement led most of the students, including Doreen, to skip eighth grade entirely and move directly to high school. This accelerated progression was a testament to Doreen’s academic abilities and determination. At JHS 125, she adjusted quickly to the new environment, continuing to build on the strong foundation she had developed at PS 36. Skipping a grade marked a pivotal moment in Doreen’s educational path, highlighting her readiness to take on challenges and excel beyond expectations.
	Norman Thomas High School 1976-1980	Jennifer Lopez might have written about the 6 train, but Doreen has her own long history with this iconic subway line. It began during her high school years when she attended Norman Thomas High School, a business-focused school located on 34th Street and Park Avenue in the Murray Hill neighborhood of Manhattan, just steps from the underground subway stop. For Doreen, the 6 train was a daily part of life, whisking her from the Bronx to Manhattan and back again, connecting her to opportunities in the city. Years later while playing a pickup basketball game her son’s team competed in the gymnasium of none other than Norman Thomas High School. By that time, the school had been closed for a few years, but stepping into its familiar halls brought a wave of nostalgia and a reminder of how far life had come since Doreen’s high school days. For Doreen, the 6 train represents more than a subway line—it’s a thread woven through different chapters of her life, connecting her past in a way only New York City can.
	Pace University. 1980-1985	After graduating from Norman Thomas High School, Doreen and her sister Debbie both enrolled at Pace University in Manhattan. Once again, the 6 train became a daily part of Doreen’s routine, carrying her from the Bronx to the bustling city as she pursued her education. Attending night classes while working full-time at Meinhart-Commercial, Doreen demonstrated an unwavering work ethic and determination. The transition to college life wasn’t without challenges. Doreen took a semester or two off to adjust to her changing circumstances, balancing work, family responsibilities, and the pressures of higher education. Despite these hurdles, she found the courage and determination to return to Pace and finish what she started. Through sheer perseverance, Doreen earned her Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting. Her hard work paid off, and she achieved her degree, building a strong foundation for her career in finance and accounting. Doreen’s journey through Pace University is a testament to her resilience and commitment to achieving her goals, no matter the obstacles.

Lori

	School	Story
	Westhill High School ?
	Southern Connecticut University ?	Bachelors and Master’s Degree