The cover of this yearbook is a collage of hand drawn caricatures drawn by Mr. Jason Laracuente. It shows the faces of the 14 graduating students clustered together in about 3 rows. The top left to right is: Richard Gabriel, Jayce Rivera and Michael Leong. The next grouping from left to right is: Skylar Kominski, Alyssa Cayetano, and Chelsea Del Toro. The bottom line, clustered together is: Selma Sulejman, Niara Devere, Devin Bullock, Eilyn Vargas, Paradise Morgan and Winston Jawed. Jason Laracuente’s signature is between the caricatures of Eilyn and Winston.

SCHERMERHORN CLASS OF 2008 is written in bold blue letters underneath the caricatures. There is a blue and gold lined frame surrounding the caricatures and words.

We wish to dedicate our yearbook to our mentor and inspiration

DR. ABRAHAM NEMETH

There is a photograph of Dr. Nemeth in the auditorium of the New York Institute for Special Education. There is an American flag and a blue banner with the words THE NEW YORK INSTITUTE FOR SPECIAL EDUCATION printed in gold (the school’s colors) Dr. Nemeth is sitting in a high back upholstered red chair and is surrounded by the class of 2008. From left to right the students are: Niara Devere, Devin Bullock, Skylar Komninski, Chelsea Del Toro, Eilyn Vargas, Richard Gabriel, Winston Jawed, Paradise Morgan, Alyssa Cayetano, and Michael Leong. Kneeling to the left of Dr. Nemeth is Selma Sulejman. Not photographed, Jayce Rivera. The caption underneath the photograph lists the names mentioned as well as “Class of 2008” This dedication has 3 pages of photographs. The second printed page shows a photograph of Dr. Nemeth sitting in the red chair mentioned above. He is smiling and reading the poster given to him by the students.

The next photograph is of Dr. Nemeth playing the grand piano. The last photograph shows Dr. Abraham Nemeth sitting in the red chair with a group of students (seniors) around him. Everyone including Dr. Nemeth is smiling. There is an American flag and a blue banner with the words THE NEW YORK INSTITUTE FOR SPECIAL EDUCATION printed in gold. Dr. Nemeth is holding up a poster which is difficult to read. It seems as though there are several names on the poster but the words, THANK YOU FOR THE CODE are very clear to read. Standing around Dr. Nemeth from left to right are: Niara Devere, Chelsea Del Toro, Devin Bullock, Richard Gabriel, Skylar Kominski, Eilyn Vargas, Alyssa Cayetano, Paradise Morgan, and Michael Leong. Winston Jawed is kneeling next to the right of Dr. Nemeth. Not pictured, Jayce Rivera.Under the photograph are the words: We will always remember your words: “It is better to light a candle than to curse the darkness”

A letter from Dr. Bernadette M. KappenThe New York Institute letterhead has Image of the New York Institute for Special a circular seal.  It has the name, THE NEW YORK INSTITUTE FOR SPECIAL EDUCATION. It is circular with the name and date 1831 encircling a flamed torch and an open book.  The words LUX ORITUR are written below the book. Founded in 1831 as The New York Institute for the Education of the Blind is in the top right corner.  The bottom of the School’s  letterhead reads:  999 Pelham Parkway, Bronx, NY  10469-4998, (718-)519-7000, (718)519-6196 (TTY), (718) 231-9314 (Fax), www.nyise.org, Executive Director Eugene McMahon, Ed.D., BOARD OF TRUSTEES, President , John B. Rhodes, Vice Presidents, Donna O’Hare Brayton, M.D., Edward Ridley Finch, Phillip G. Foote, Secretary, Rosanna K. Silberman, Treasurer, William L. Musser, Jr. Edward F. Cox, Frances F. Dennison, John H.D. Dewey, Thomas A.D. Ettinghausen, Richard C. Gay. Dear Members of the Class of 2008:The day you have all been waiting for is finally here! I know that you must have mixed feelings about leaving The New York Institute for Special Education. Some of you have been here for many years and others spent just a few years with us. During this time you have developed strong bonds of friendship. As you go on to college, a training program or work always remember how important these relationships have been. I hope you will try to stay in touch and share your new experiences and get support from your friends.Each of you has achieved so much during your years in high school. The staff is so proud of you and wants only the best for you as you graduate. Moving on brings with it some nervousness but think back to what made you successful at NYI. You worked hard, participated in extra-curricular activities and communicated well with your teachers and peers. Being open and willing to communicate will be one of the keys to your success. Share your thoughts, your needs related to your visual impairment and be your own advocate as you move on. You have been a part of NYI during the 175th Anniversary celebration and you are now a part of the School’s history for the future. Each of you has left your mark and we will always remember your contribution to the school.Please remember that NYI is here to support and help you. I hope you will come back often and let us know how you are doing.Congratulations and good luck always,Bernadette M. KappenExecutive Director

A letter from Joe CataveroThe New York Institute letterhead has Image of the New York Institute for Special a circular seal.  It has the name, THE NEW YORK INSTITUTE FOR SPECIAL

EDUCATION. It is circular with the name and date 1831 encircling a flamed torch and an open book.  The words LUX ORITUR are written below the book. Founded in 1831 as The New York Institute for the Education of the Blind is in the top right corner.  The bottom of the School’s  letterhead reads:  999 Pelham Parkway, Bronx, NY  10469-4998, (718-)519-7000, (718)519-6196 (TTY), (718) 231-9314 (Fax), www.nyise.org, Executive Director Eugene McMahon, Ed.D., BOARD OF TRUSTEES, President , John B. Rhodes, Vice Presidents, Donna O’Hare Brayton, M.D., Edward Ridley Finch, Phillip G. Foote, Secretary, Rosanna K. Silberman, Treasurer, William L. Musser, Jr. Edward F. Cox, Frances F. Dennison, John H.D. Dewey, Thomas A.D. Ettinghausen, Richard C. Gay.

Dear Graduating Class of 2008,

I write this letter to you in anticipation of your graduation with mixed emotions. While I am delighted that each of you has successfully completed your High School career, it saddens me to know that you all will be leaving.

The long days and nights of hard work and sacrifice you endured these past several years have come to fruition. You have arrived at the beginning of your next journey through life. But it is one that you now control and can make as exciting and unique as you wish.

The sadness is in knowing that your smiling faces, caring natures and engaging conversations will not be part of my day come July. However, knowing that you will meet your next set of challenges head on and with the same vigor you have demonstrated so far in your young lives transcends the feeling from sadness into one of pride.

I am very proud of each of you for who you have become as individuals. Your efforts and contributions to the community are reflective of the caring and empathetic nature you routinely demonstrate. Indeed, you have inspired us with the belief one does not need to see to have a vision, but one needs a vision in order to succeed. I congratulate each of you and your families. Best wishes and we will speak again soon.

Joe Catavero

Centered, and at the top of the page is the name DEVIN BULLOCK. There is a photograph of Devin from the middle of his chest up, on the cover page of her section. He is standing in front of a pink cherry tree in full bloom. He is wearing a dark blue Yankees baseball cap and 2 t-shirts. The inside t-shirt which shows around his neck is black and the actual t-shirt he is wearing is a very light blue-green with thick white print and says” Est. 1996 ENYCE” . Devin has a serious expression on his face. The quote under her photo reads, “to be a winner, you need to win”.

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Nickname? NU

Years at NYI? 4 years

Favorites:Food? Chicken Wings Movie? Training DayBook? BeowulfMagazine? Sports Illustrated and The SourceMusician? Trey SongzMusic? R&BWebsite? Kumby

What do you like to do on the weekends? Going to parties and write music.

What will you miss the most at NYI? (There is an icon of 2 young men clowing around. The icon is a cartoon and one of the boys is giving the other bunny ears. Both boys are wearing baseball caps) After the icon, Devin’s response is: My NYI family

Where do you see yourself in 10 years? Done with college and well on my way to my career as a business representative and A BACHELOR

Where do your friends see you in 10 years? As a politician or motivational speaker

Where in the world would you like to travel someday? Brazil (there is a small icon which is a photograph of a globe where North and South America are shown. You can sort of see the word Brazil in the area of Brazil)

Who has had an impact on your life? My Mom

If you could spend a day with a celebrity, who would it be and why? Martin Luther King – so I could learn from his non-violent ways

What is a memory you have of NYI? Home wrestling matches

What is a memory you have of a friend? My favorite memory is of Michael Leong. It was awesome to see his reaction after he won the track tournament. (0n the bottom of the page is a drawing or simple sketch of a person running with his hands up in the air. It looks like he is crossing the finish line in victory)

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Centered at the top of the page is the name ALYSSA CAYETANO. There is a photograph of Alyssa from her chest up, on the cover page of her section. She is standing in front of a pink cherry tree in full bloom. Her hair is pulled back and in a ponytail and she is smiling. She is wearing a black short sleeve t-shirt with the words “All Star” on the front. The quote under her photograph reads, “Let love help you live your life”

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Nickname? Brat

Years at NYI? 3 years

Favorites: Food? Chicken and cheese roll from Prago’sMovie? Ice PrincessBook? A Child Called ItMusician? Right now Sara BareillesMusic? Pop Rock AlternativeWebsite? myspace

What do you like to do on the weekends? I like hanging out with my friends and traveling all over the place

What do you like to do in your spare time? (there is an icon in this space of a woman working on the computer. She is facing the screen) Alyssa’s answer is to the above question is: Sleep and go on “myspace”

What will you miss the most when you leave NYI? All the great times with the greatest people in my life

Where do you see yourself in 10 years? As the head of VISIONS

Where do your friends see you in 10 years? A nurse or psychiatrist

(there is an icon of a simple drawing of an airplane in this space) The question reads: Where in the world would you like to travel some day? Europe and Asia

Who has had an impact on your life? All of the people that have taught me a lot and have influenced me to be a good person and to be me.

What is a memory you have of NYI? Hanging out at my favorite hangout with my favorite person who has great conversations to offer.

If you could spend a day with a celebrity, who would it be and why? Sara Bareilles because she seems like a fun loving person

What is your secret to happiness? Only think about the people and things that make you want to get up in the morning and face the day.

What is your favorite memory of a friend? My talks with the NAP girls (That stands for Nadreca, Alyssa and Paradise)(on the bottom of the page is a drawing of the shadow of 3 girls. They are each standing near each other with their arms raised high as though they are reaching for the sky)

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Centered, at the top of the page is the name CHELSEA DEL TORO. There is a photograph of Chelsea, from her waist up, on the cover page of her section. She is standing in front of a pink cherry tree in full bloom. She is resting her right hand on the trunk which is low. She has pink streaks in her long blond hair and she has a serious expression on her face. She is wearing red lipstick and is wearing a sleeveless black top. The quote under her photo reads, “Some people curse roses for having thorns, but I’m just glad that thorns have roses”

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Nickname? Chels

Years at NYI? 12 years

Favorites: Food? Chicharon de polloMovie? ConstantineBook? Running With Scissors Musicians? Collide—Breaking Benjamin--- The Academy Is Music? RockWebsite? morbidnight.net

What do you like to do on the weekends? (there is an icon of a cartoon of 2 girls sitting on a long sofa with small snack tables in front of each of them. The girl in the foreground is talking on a telephone and a tray of food is in front of her on the snack

table. The girl sitting in the background is not as clear to see. She too has food in front of her but she looks like she may be reading or possibly talking on a phone as well) After the icon, Chelsea’s response reads: Call friends to chat—Write html code--- Model

What do you like to do in your spare time? Draw and write poetry

What will you miss the most at NYI? I’ll miss the teachers, students that I’ve become close to and especially Mr. and Mrs. Walsh

Where do you see yourself in 10 years? Playing Kate in The Taming of the Shrew on stage and graduating with a Doctorate in Business

Where do your friends see you in 10 years? Successful in whatever she does

Where in the world would you like to travel some day? Germany, Las Vegas, and Japan (there is an icon of a cartoon of the world and an airplane flying around it. The airplane looks bent a little sort of like the shape of the circular world)

Who has had an impact on your life? Everyone around me has had some impact but the biggest has to be Mr. C., Mr. and Mrs. Walsh, Mrs. Rahni, Mr. Pedulla, Mayeline and Ms. Kim

What is a memory you have of NYI? How everyone reacted to September 11th and came together to help each other.

If you could spend a day with a celebrity, who would it be and why? Johnny Depp because he’s sexy

What is a memory you have of a friend? Everyone bumping into each other down the slide at the cheerleader tournament

What is your secret to happiness? Communication and picking battles

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Centered, at the top of the page is the name NIARA DEVERE. There is a photograph of Niara, from her waist up, on the cover page of her section. She is wearing a pink quilted jacket and is standing next to a pink cherry tree. The pink flowers on the tree are very close to Niara and she is holding one of the flower bunches in right hand. Niara’s hair is shoulder length and in corn rows. She has a slight, serious smile on her face. The quote under her photo reads, “We do not remember days,we remember moments“ Cesare Pavese

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Nickname? Ni

Years at NYI? 10 years

Favorites:Food? ItalianMovie? Feel the NoiseBook? A Christmas SecretMagazine? Rundown Musicians? Beyonce’, Omarion Chris Brown& Ray Jay Music? R&B, Hip hop, Country and soft rock Websites? Aim, ask, yahoo, games.com and promgirl.com

What do you like to do on the weekends? (There is a small icon after this question. The icon is a cartoon with pink background and an African American lady with an Afro haircut walking and holding 2 bags. She looks like she just came from a shopping trip)After the icon, Niara’s response says: I love going shopping with my friends, going to the movies or just hanging

What do you like to do in your spare time? I like to listen to music, talk on the phone or watch TV.

What will you miss the most ay NYI? I will miss the teachers

Where do you see yourself in 10 years? As a teacherWhere do your friends see you in 10 years? The owner of a daycare center

Where would you like to travel some day? I would love to go to Rome and Paris

Who has impacted your life? My mom, my grandma, and Ms. Kim

What is a memory you have of NYI? (There is an icon of a cartoon of a chef’s hat flipping a hamburger. The hat has 2 legs) After the icon is Niara’s response: All those BBQ’s and field days

If you could spend a day with a celebrity, who would it be and why? Chris Brown because he’s cute and I would like to get to know him.

What is your secret to happiness? (There is an icon of a children’s drawing of 2 little girls with big smiles hugging each other) Niara’s response is: Having good friends and not listening to others about nonsense

What is a memory you have of a friend? When Winston fell UP the stairs!!!

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Centered, at the top of the page is the name RICHARD GABRIEL. There is a photograph of Richard sitting on a big rock near Crosby Phelps dorms. He looks like he’s thinking. He has his left leg bent at the knee and his left arm bent and underneath his chin. His right hand is bent and his hand is on his left knee. He has a serious expression on his face. He is wearing white shorts and a white t-shirt. The quote under his photograph reads: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you” The next page ----

Nickname? Gabe

Years at NYI? 12 years

Favorites:Food? EverythingMovie? I am LegendBook? Harry PotterMagazine? Comic BooksMusician? Utada HikaruMusic? JapaneseWebsite? Bleach Exile

What do you like to do on the weekends? Hang out with friends, family, and Shavon

What do you do in your spare time? I like to read and draw.

What will you miss the most at NYI? Being around the same people every day for the past 12 years.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years? Designing video games

Where do your friends see you in 10 years? As video game designer(There is a cute colorful cartoon icon of a penguin sitting on the floor playing a video game. Behind him is a tall stack of video games. The penguin looks very serious and is concentrating hard.)

Where would you like to travel some day? The World (There is photograph icon of a jet plane taking off)

Who has had an impact on your life? My Parents

What is a memory you have of NYI? When I won the heavy-weight champion tournament (There is a colorful icon of a trophy which is a cup with handles on both sides and standing on a platform)

What is a memory of a friend? Meeting and hanging out with Winston – he’s like a brother to me

If you could spend a day with a celebrity, who would it be and why? Will Smith because he is very successful in life

What is your secret to happiness? Keep an open mind and think positive

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Centered, at the top of the page is the name SKYLAR KOMINSKI. There is a photograph of Skylar from her waist up. She has a big smile and is showing her teeth which have braces. She is wearing a gold heart necklace and a black sweater. Behind Skylar is a purple lilac bush. Below the photograph is the quote, “No one can make yu feel inferior without your consent” Eleanor Roosevelt

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Nickname? Sky Sky--- Angel Eyes---Fallen Angel

Years at NYI? 8 years

Favorites: Food? Polish and Italian foodMovie? Grind ---Lords of Dogtown---Lord of the RingsBook? Too many to list!!! (There is an icon of a stack of colorful books) Musicians? HIM --- CKY--- Fall Out BoyMusic? I love all music, especially Rock (There is an icon of a photograph of a guitar)Website? Myspace.com

What do you like to do on the weekends? Hanging out with friends, reading, writing, and chillin’ out with my family

What do you like to do in your spare time? Read and write-fill out surveys on myspace (There is a icon of a black and white drawing of a hand drawing lines with a pen. The hand and lines are within a picture frame)

What will you miss the most at NYI? All of the people that I’m leaving behind

Where do you see yourself in 10 years? As a psychologist

Where do your friends see you in 10 years? As a global studies teacher or a psychologist

Where in the world would you like to travel some day? I want to travel the world. Lucky, I have a head start. (There is an icon of a colorful drawing of an airplane) Who has had an impact on your life? My dad. He’s an inspiration and he helped make me who I am today

What is a memory you have of NYI? I have so many memories, I can’t just pick one.

If you could spend a day with a celebrity, who would it be and why? Ville Valo of Elijah Wood because they’re so handsome and talented and I want to marry them.”LoL”

What is a memory you have of a friend? I’ll always remember Chelsea’s randomness, Winston’s ditsiness , Mayeline’s face when me and Chelsea said something disturbing, Ruben’s pranks, Raymond’s giggling for no reason, how me and Ruben almost always killed Ms. Cuggy with the soccer ball, how un-Asian Alyssa acts, and just Toni in general

What is your secret to happiness? If I told you I would have to kill you

Centered, at the top of the page is the name MICHAEL LEONG. There is a waist up photograph of Michael with a big smile on his face. He is wearing a light colored shirt and is holding his cane in his left hand. You can see his watch on his left wrist. He is standing in front of a beautiful pink cherry tree.

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Nickname? Mikey

Years at NYI? 15 years

Favorites:Food? Chinese FoodMovie? BeowulfBook? Of Mice and Men (I like Lenny and George) Magazine? sports Musician? The Beatles and also Beethoven, Tsychosky, and Mozart Music? oldies but goodies but I like classical too! Website? Microsoft Word

What do you like to do on the weekends? (After this question, there is an icon of a beautiful, shiny black grand piano with the top open)Michael’s response to the question is: Go to the Lighthouse and practice the piano

What do you like to do in your spare time? Listen to music and play the piano

What will you miss the most at NYI? The trips and the people

Where would you like to travel someday? China

Who has had an impact on your life? My parents

What is your favorite of memory of NYI? Working at a nursing home

Where do you see yourself in 10 years? Working with music

Where do your friends see you in 10 years? Being a translator and playing the piano in a fancy restaurant

What is a memory you have of a friend? I remember Ruben Tavares getting good grades and being so good in sports.

If you could spend a day with a celebrity, who would it be and why? Mozart, to play the piano with him (There is a small icon of Mozart. It is a drawing and is in black and white except for his bright red jacket. Mozart has white hair and a white ruffled shirt. He is standing in front of musical notes which are all black and white)

What is your secret to happiness? Singing and listening to music (At the bottom of the page is a staff with a G-cleft and musical notes)

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Centered, at the top of the page is the name PARADISE MORGAN. Paradise is standing in school’s yard. The gazebo is in the background and there are pink cherry blossoms around her. She is seen from the waist up. She has a big smile on her face. She is wearing a black and white plaid blouse and black pants. Her left hand is on her waist and her right hand is holding her cane. Under her photo is her quote:“Dream as if you’ll live forever. Live as if you’ll die today.” James Dean

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Nickname? Dicey

Number of years at NYI? 4 years

Favorites:Food? Collard greens and smoked turkey Movie? Jaw Breaker Book? The Coldest Winter Ever- Sister Soldier Musician? Al GreenMusic? All music Website? Gurls.com

What do you like to do on the weekends? Hang out with family---shopping---chilling with friends

What do you like to do in your spare time? Dancing and singing (There is a small red icon of Betty Boop who is a dancer. The cartoon is red, white and black. Betty is dancing with a stick in her left hand. She is . holding a black top hat in her right hand. She has a red dress and red high heel shoes. Betty has bangle bracelets on each wrist and a red heart garter on her left thigh.)

What will you miss the most when you leave NYI? Staff and friends

Where do you see yourself in 10 years? Successful an having a huge family

Where do your friends see you in 10 years? (There is a graceful icon of a lady dancing. She looks like she’s leaping in the air with her arms extended and her right leg bent and her left leg out behind her. She is wearing a colorful outfit which has a flowing pink skirt and a blue blouse with full bell shaped sleeves) Next to the icon is Paradise’s response: A dancer

Where in the world would you like to travel some day? Hawaii, Bahamas, and Paris

Who has impacted your life? Ms. Dawn, Ms. Romano, and Ms. Nicole

What is a memory you have of NYI? All the soap operas in the dorm

If you could spend a day with a celebrity, who would it be and why? Morris Chestnut because he is sooooo fine!

What is your secret to happiness? (There is an icon of a blue smurf laughing. He is wearing a floppy white hat.) After the icon is Paradise’s response: Laughing What is your favorite memory of a friend? Toni and I dancing at the talent show and my NAP (Nadreca, Alyssa, and Paradise) talks

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Centered, at the top of the page is the name JAYCE RIVERA. There is a photograph of Jayce sitting on the rock in front of the Crosby Phelps dorm. He is smiling and is wearing a navy blue hooded sweatshirt. Below Jayce’s photograph is the quote, “Happiness is very important to a great and long life”

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Nickname? Jason

Years at NYI? 12 years

Favorites: Food? Tacos Movie? Lion King Musician? Britney SpearsMusic? Everything What do you like to do on the weekends? Hang out with my friends

What do you like to do in your spare time? Go on the computer and play video games

What will you miss the most at NYI? The staff and the fun times

Where do you see yourself in 10 years? Having my GED and working

Where do your friends see you in 10 years? (There is an icon of a cartoon drawing of 2 money bags with the dollar sign on each) After the icon is Jayce’s response: Working and making money

Where would you like to travel some day? Disneyland in Florida (There is an icon of a photograph of the castle in the Magic Kingdom in Disneyland.)

Who has had an impact on your life?A lot of people like: David Bias, Richard Bias, Bobby Martin, Patty B, Lee S., Tracy, Lois, Joe Salano, and Joe Catavero

What is a memory you have of a friend? The first time I watched Gabe orbit, like Winston does

If you could spend a day with a celebrity, who would it be and why? Britney Spears, because I have a crush on her

What is your secret to happiness? You only live once. It doesn’t make sense being serious all the time. Happiness is the key!

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Centered on the top of the page is the name SELMA SULEJMAN. There is a photograph on this page of Selma from the waist up standing in front of green bushes making up a dark and light green background. Selma is wearing her hair pulled back in a braided ponytail and has a slight smile on her face. She is wearing a short sleeved horizontal blue and green striped t-shirt and a gold necklace with a charm. Below her

photograph is the quote: “Keep away from people who try to belittle your ambitions. Small people always do that, but the really great make you feel that you, too, can become great.” Mark Twain

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Years at NYI? 10 years

Favorites: Food? Anything spicy, like Buffalo WingsMovie? Definitely, The NotebookBook? A Walk to Remember by Nicholas SparksMagazine? SeventeenMusician? Justin (Randall) Timberlake Music? R&B, Pop, Reggae, Punk Rock, & Hip Hop Website? myspace.com

What do you like to do on the weekends? I like going shopping, going to the movies, hanging out with my friends and family and going to parties.

What do you like to do in your spare time? Relaxing and just cranking up the tunes on my iPod

What will you miss most about NYI? I’ll miss my friends, teachers and all the good times I had here.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years? As a successful attorney (There is an icon of a symbol of a lawyer which is the scale symbolizing the scales of justice)

Where do your friends see you 10 years? As a lawyerWhere in the world would you like to travel some day? I’d like to go to Rome, Paris, Barcelona and Hawaii

Who has had an impact on your life? My mom and my sister have had a great impact on my life.

What is a fond memory of NYI? The day I met Winston. He will be remembered!!!

If you could spend a day with a celebrity, who would it be and why? (There is an icon of a photograph of Chad Michael Murray)

Chad Michael Murray because he’s sooo hot and gorgeous….and….I would like to find out what his life is like as a celebrity.

What is your secret to happiness? (There is an icon of a yellow smiley face with its mouth open with a wide smile)I try not to hold onto grudges and just be happy. I remember to smile once in a while!

What is a fond memory you have of a friend? I’ll never forget the day that Eilyn left her curls intact for too long and came into school looking like Shirley Temple. It was hilarious, but you got to love her!

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Centered, on the top of the page is the name Eilyn Vargas. There is a photograph of Eilyn from the waist up standing in front of the gazebo in the yard of the school. Above

her head is a pink branch of the cherry tree in bloom. Eilyn has her hair pulled back and is wearing dangle earrings. She also has a gold cross necklace. The blouse she is

wearing is a black and blue print with an open neckline. Below Eilyn’s photograph is a quote which reads: “Don’t let your past dictate who you are let your heart tell you”

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Nickname? Vargas

Years at NYI? 4 years

Favorites: Food? Lasagna Movie? Hairspray Magazine? Teen and Vogue Musician? Chris Brown Music? Everything Website? Yahoo

What do you like doing on the weekends? (There is an icon of a lady walking and carrying so many colorful packages that they are pressed up against her face and you can’t see her, only her ponytail. She is in a walking motion and is wearing high heeled shoes) Next to the icon is Eilyn’s response: Go shopping and also go to the movies

What do you like to do in your spare time? Listen to music and hang out with my friends

Where do you see yourself in 10 years? Being a psychologist

Where do your friends see you in 10 years? As a sophisticated young psychologist or a teacher

Where would you like to travel someday? The World (There is an icon of a light blue rectangle suitcase with a red handle. The suitcase has a Band-Aid and 2 stickers on it)

Who has had a great impact in your life? My parents

What is a memory you have of NYI? Meeting good friends

If you could spend a day with a celebrity, who would it be and why? Chris Brown, because he’s hot

What is your secret to happiness? Always put a smile to a problem (there is a yellow happy face with black dot eyes and a big black smile)

What is your favorite memory of a friend? When Winston sang “Barbie Girl” in theatre arts

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This is the introduction page for the next section. It has 2 lines of 6 square icons each. One line on the top of the page and one line of 6 icons on the bottom. The words WE ARE THE BEST are in bold letters between the rows. A description of the icons are as follows: Smiling clown with a white face, red mouth and orange hair coming out from each side of his face near his ears; A cartoon of a band is shown. The cartoon shows simple blue figures of 3 band members, 2 carrying various horns and 1 holding and beating a drum. There is one band leader in the front holding a baton and all 4 are marching. Blue music symbols are around the icon; man’s hands on a piano keyboard; a cartoon of 2 men debating. The picture shows the busts of 2 men with white wigs perched on stools and facing and yelling at each other; 2 hands holding each other (helping hands), 4 people dressed in black jumping up with their arms extended upwards as though they are cheering. The bottom row of icons below the words WE ARE THE BEST!!! from left to right are as follows: An African American girl’s hair in cornrows; a simple sketch of a girl or young lady comforting a tearful small child; a colorful artist’s palate with a paintbrush; a black and white cartoon of a rapper holding a microphone to his mouth with one hand and his other arm, bent at the elbow making some type of gesture; a yellow cartoon face holding up his hand seeming to say, “shhhhh”; a cartoon of a boy sitting at the computer. The boy is smiling with his teeth showing and the computer keyboard also looks like it is smiling too. It has the same teeth as the boy.The following pages have the above mentioned icons next to the award title and name of the student:CLASS CLOWN, Winston Jawed (the clown icon)

BEST HAIR (AND STYLIST TOO!!!) Paradise Morgan (icon of girl with corn rows)MOST HELPFUL, Jayce Rivera (icon of helping hands)BEST PIANO PLAYER, Michael Leong (icon of hands on a piano keyboard)MOST ARTISTIC, Chelsea Del Toro (icon of the artist’s palate with paintbrush)MOST QUIET, Niara Devere (icon of a yellow cartoon face holding up his hand seeming to say, “shhhhh”)FUN AND LOUD, Alyssa Cayetano (icon of 4 people dressed in black jumping up with their arms extended upwards as though they are cheering)MOST CONSIDERATE, Eilyn Vargas (icon of a simple sketch of a girl or young lady comforting a tearful small child)BEST LEADER, Selma Sulejman (icon of a cartoon of a band is shown. The cartoon shows simple blue figures of 3 band members, 2 carrying various horns and 1 holding and beating a drum. There is one band leader in the front holding a baton and all 4 are marching. Blue music symbols are around the icon)BEST DEBATER, Skylar Kominski, (icon of a cartoon of 2 men debating. The picture shows the busts of 2 men with white wigs perched on stools and facing and yelling at each other)COMPUTER GEEK, Richard Gabriel, (icon of a cartoon of a boy sitting at the computer. The boy is smiling with his teeth showing and the computer keyboard also looks like it is smiling too. It has the same teeth as the boy)MOST ATHLETIC RAPPER, Devin Bullock, (icon of a black and white cartoon of a rapper holding a microphone to his mouth with one hand and his other arm, bent at the elbow making some type of gesture)MOST LIKELY TO SUCCEED, CLASS OF 2008 (icon of the words HEAD FOR SUCCESS in a circular shape with a colorful rainbow background)

THE MYSTERY OF METhis introduction page has a black and white shadow sketch of Sherlock Holms looking through a magnifying glass and a question mark.There is a colorful cartoon icon in the corner left hand corner of the next page. A confused bald man is shrugging his shoulders as and his hands are face up as though he is asking, “who knows?” Next to the icon is the words: What People Don’t Know About MeI don’t like drinking from anyone’s cup except my own---not even my mom’s!!! ---SelmaMy middle name--- WinstonI like to party---NiaraI play the flute--- MichaelEven though I appear so calm and collected, I’m actually a nervous person----DevinA lot of people don’t know I’m a very good sing----SkylarI don’t like to wear neckties!--- JayceI love to dance. If there’s music---I’m there! ----EilynI don’t trust squirrels !!!---GabeI like Shirley Temple--- ParadiseMy mom gave birth to me at 42---ChelseaI’m actually quiet at home--- Alyssa

(There is a large thick blue question mark on the bottom of the page.)

The introduction page has a green 4 leaf clover and the green bold letters LUCK!The top of the following page has 3 symbols of luck. From left to right are a pot of gold with a shamrock on the side of the pot, a green shamrock, and a horseshoe with a shamrock resting on it and a small banner “Good Luck” draped o;n it.In bold letters are the words: The Luckiest Thing That Ever Happened to MeHaving Mr. Flynn as my teacher two years in a row!---Michael Coming to this school and meeting all my best friends---WinstonBeing visually impaired is luck for me because if I was 20/20 I wouldn’t have met all of my lovely friends and teachers and experience what I got to experience here at NYI---NiaraMeeting my boyfriend Andre (Love you babe)S(there is a small icon in this space of a pink heart)--- SelmaBEING BORN---DevinWhen I got my kidney transplant--- Paradise(there is a small icon of a pot of gold with a colorful rainbow attached)

Making the right choice and getting into this school---AlyssaGetting accepted into the People to People Student Ambassador’s Program--- SkylarMeeting my friends here ---EilynI was blind for 6 months after birth and somehow gained my vision ---ChelseaI have so many friends ---GabeComing to NYI---Jayce(there are 3 horse shoes at the bottom of this page)

The cover page has 2 long stem red roses. One rose is at the top and one at the bottom of the words:Roses are for Remembrance The next page says: Each year the rose garden of the NYI is enhanced with a new rose bush and plaque as a token of appreciation and remembrance from the graduating class. (after the words is the same long stem rose that appears on the cover page)

The CLASS OF 2008 reflects on what the Institute has given to them A lot of progress ---- MichaelHope for a better future---- ParadiseLove and Caring ----AlyssaMotivation to succeed in my desired career ----WinstonConfidence ----- NiaraPerseverance and it gave me the ability to allow me to chase my dreams to be successful ---- SelmaIt’s helped me become a leader and bring out the leader qualities I always knew I had--- Devin

Another home for the past 12 years ---- GabeA safe haven by the way of a blind community---ChelseaA second home---JayceCompanionship and knowledge --- SkylarMaturity --- Eilyn(There is a small photograph of students from the waist down, planting roses in the rose garden. You can see 3one holding the handle of a long shovel and several rose bushes in bloom around them. A plaque is also apparent underneath one of the rose bushes)

The introduction page of the section has the bold words: IMPORTANT EVENTS AND PEOPLE IN HIS STORY. Between the HIS and STORY is a black and white sketch of a man’s hand writing with a quill pen.The pages are as follows:

Jimmy Carter, Devin Bullock and a small colored photograph of Jimmy Carter. He appears to be sitting and wearing a suit and necktie. There are the red and white stripes of the American flag behind him.

Carter was elected President of the U.S. in 1976. His friends knew him as a man of great personal warmth and charm. In politics, he was an able, energetic campaigner with an iron will and a determination to win every fight. According to his political aides, he demanded hard work and set high standards but pushed himself the hardest. His first major decision as President was to pardon draft evaders of the Vietnam War. His greatest foreign policy achievement was the Camp David Accords where he served as the middle man in a 1978 peace agreement between Israel and Egypt. After leaving the White House in 1982, he returned to Plains, GA and worked as a volunteer carpenter on projects for Habitat for Humanity. This is a project where volunteers build houses for the poor. DEVIN too is an admirable humanitarian. He has great personal warmth and determination. He pushes himself hard to succeed and like Carter has the iron will and determination needed to succeed. As President of Student Council, Devin showed leadership, high standards, and reassurance to his classmates that the buck stops with him.

Rosa Parks, Alyssa Cayetano and a small black and white photograph of Rosa Parks sitting on a bus looking out of the window and a white man in a seat behind her.

Rosa Parks was a retired seamstress who is noted as being a very important American Civil Rights Movement activist. She is best known for her role in a 1955 boycott of the Montgomery, Alabama bus system. Rosa Parks was arrested, tried, and convicted with disorderly conduct on December 1, 1955 for refusing a bus driver’s order to give up her seat to a white man and stand. By "sitting down" for what she believed in, and refusing to give up her bus seat, Mrs. Parks made history. On appeal the case ultimately resulted in the U.S. Supreme Court ruling that segregated bus service was unconstitutional. The Civil Rights Movement was put into motion, which led to the Civil

Rights Act of 1964. Today all Americans, whatever their race, nationality, or religion, must be given equal treatment under the law. Alyssa is civic minded as well. She speaks up for what she believes is right and is always there to help make the world a better place for everyone. When she believes she is right, there is not much that can stand in her way from expressing herself. Alyssa is determined, spirited, and courageous which are all qualities that parallel Rosa Parks.

Rachael Carson, Chelsea Del Toro and a small black and white photograph of a lady whose hair looks wavy (like in the 60’s) and she is looking through a microscope.

Rachel Carson was a leader in alerting Americans to the dangers of pesticides. Her 1962 book, Silent Spring, sounded the alarm for Americans to wake up to the destruction of plant and animal life caused by using insecticides and pesticides. She warned that with the continued use of pesticides and the resulting chemical pollution, a time would come when wildlife would die off and the food supply would be unfit for human use. Her book became a controversial issue with chemical companies vs. people in the community. President John F. Kennedy promoted an investigation of the dangers and benefits of pesticides used. This investigation confirmed what Carson’s words and triggered what is now commonly labeled the "environmental activist" issue. Chelsea is also a civic minded young lady who is an environmental activist as well. It is important to Chelsea that the environment is secure and safe for future generations. Like Carson, Chelsea is also a scientist; a keen observer of the world around her. Conflict and controversy will not stop Chelsea from doing whatever she believes is necessary to help those she believes are threatened.

JANE ADDAMS, NIARA DEVERS -There is a black and white photograph of a lady sitting and reading to about 9 boys and girls. The people look as though they are from the early 1900s.

Jane Addams is remembered primarily as a founder of the Settlement House Movement. She and her friend Ellen Starr founded Hull House in the slums of Chicago in 1889. She is also remembered as the first American Woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize. Jane was a selfless giver to the poor, but few realize that she was a mover and shaker in the areas of labor reform (laws that governed working conditions for children and women), and was a charter member of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).  She had a gift of tolerance, philanthropy, and a strong work ethic. Jane made speeches about the needs of the neighborhood, raised money, convinced young women of well-to-do families to help, took care of children, nursed the sick, listened to outpourings from troubled people. NIARA is also a kind and tolerant young lady. She is admired by all as having a strong work ethic and loves helping others. She would most likely be the one to aid urban poverty and educate the underprivileged.

There is a black and white sketch at the bottom right hand corner of the page of the Hull House

Mohandas Gandhi, Richard Gabriel – A small black and white photograph of Gandhi draped in white cloth.

Mohandas Gandhi was the major political and spiritual leader of India and the Indian Independence Movement. He developed a large following among India’s peasants and resisted the British control of India by using non-violent methods. He urged Indians to disobey unjust British laws through civil disobedience and passive resistance. This led India to independence and inspired movements for civil rights and freedom across the world. He said, “I object to violence because when it appears to do good, the good is only temporary; the evil it does is permanent.” Gandhi is commonly known in India and across the world as the Mahatma "Great Soul". This approach to life and people is emulated by Richard. His way to handle adversity is through his own form of civil disobedience and passive resistance. Gabe too is sensible and reasonable and he too is a Great Soul who is simple in desires but great in reverence.

WINSTON CHURCHILL, WINSTON JAWED- There is a color photograph of a statue of Churchill. The words “CHURCHILL” are carved below the man.

Sir Winston Churchill was a British politician known chiefly for his leadership of Great Britain during World War II. He served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. He was also a war correspondent and wrote histories, biographies, memories and even a novel, while his journalism, speeches and broadcasts spread. He was also a man of vast humanity and enormous wit. His most famous speeches, sayings, puns and jokes have passed into history. Winston Jawed like his namesake is also a great wit. He could have very well expressed his sense of humor with these examples of humor as well: “A joke is a very serious thing”; “A lie gets halfway around the world before the truth has a chance to get its pants on”; “Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference”; “I’m easily satisfied with the very best”; “Personally, I’m always ready to learn, although I do not always like being taught.” Winston Jawed also has an interest in broadcast and a way with words. Like Churchill he is quick to reply and spontaneous as well. So many of Winston’s sayings, behaviors, and ethics are engraved in the minds of those lives he’s touched for all time. All Winston Jawed needs is a British accent and the two Winstons would be hard to confuse.

MARCO POLO, SKYLAR KOMINSKI- A colored icon of a man in robes standing next to a drawing of Asia. There are lines drawn on the drawing marking a route which runs around India and southern China and also through parts of the Middle East.

Marco Polo was a trader from Venice and explorer who gained fame for his worldwide travels, recorded in the book The Travels of Marco Polo. Polo, together with his father and his uncle was one of the first Westerners to travel the Silk Road to China and visit and become a confidant of Kublai Khan. He excelled all the other travelers in his determination, his writing, and his influence. It has been written that Marco Polo discovered eye glasses, ice-cream, spaghetti, and the riches of Asia! When he returned, no one believed his stories of the riches he found in Asia. Marco Polo showed them some of the riches he had brought home. Marco Polo was very courageous too. He wasn't scared of the people in the different countries he visited. When Marco was near death, a priest came in his room to ask him if he'd like to admit that his stories were false. Instead, Marco said, “I did not tell half of what I saw". Skylar is the Marco Polo of our graduation class. She has traveled the world and we wait to hear of her travels and experiences. Her exotic experiences and encounters will continue this summer and who, knows how many future travels on which she will embark. Like Marco Polo, Skylar is brave, determined and courageous in all of her undertakings. Too bad ice cream and spaghetti were already discovered, because Skylar would have done it first.

CONFUCIUS, MICHAEL LEONG – there is a colored drawing of a Chinese man with a thin mustache facing downward and a triangular shaped beard on his chin. In the top right corner of the icon are 2 Chinese characters (letters)

Confucius was a well-known leader in philosophy created and theories about the law, life, and the government. His sayings in ancient China helped many people learn about nature, the world, and human behavior. His theories and principles on moral standards were spread throughout China by and soon many people learned from his wise sayings. He taught the great value of the power of example. Confucius himself had a simple moral and political teaching: to love others; to honor one's parents; to do what is right instead of what is of advantage; to practice "reciprocity," i.e. "don't do to others what you would not want yourself"; to rule by moral example instead of by force and violence; and so forth. Confucius was also a great lover of music and played some himself. Michael is also a Chinese man with a well known philosophy of kindness, respect and music. He is a master of music and grace and moral principles. He asked to be compared to Ancient China because he is proud of his own ancestry but it is apparent that Confucious’ practices resemble Michael’s creed. Michael’s respect for his parents and teachers is profound. He, like Confucius is a teacher. Michael teaches Mandarin Chinese at PS 20 and generously shares his knowledge with others.

HARRIET TUBMAN, PARADISE MORGAN – There is a black and white photograph of Harriet Tubman standing and facing the camera. She is wearing a dress from the 1800s.

Harriet Tubman was a runaway slave from Maryland who became known as the "Moses of her people." Over the course of 10 years, and at great personal risk, she led hundreds of slaves to freedom along the Underground Railroad, a secret network of safe houses where runaway slaves could stay on their journey north to freedom. She later became a leader in the abolitionist movement, and during the Civil War she was a spy for the federal forces in South Carolina as well as a nurse. In the post war era she struggled for women’s suffrage. Paradise is a spirited and creative young lady who would also use her resources to provide safe houses to those in need. She is a visionary and her morals and principles are strong and do not waiver. Like Harriet Tubman, Paradise is dedicated and loyal. She can be considered a women’s right advocate like the early suffragettes because of her determination and aspiration to support anything she believes to be right.

The New Deal, Jayce Rivera- there is a round, black and white FDR campaign button. The button shows a photograph of FDR from the shoulders up and the words : FOR A NEW DEAL above him.

FDR’s New Deal Plan was a sequence of programs and promises he initiated between 1933 and 1938 with the goal of giving Relief, Recovery and Reform. It was designed to get the U.S. back on its feet after the Great Depression. It was first used by Roosevelt in his speech accepting the Democratic Party nomination for President in 1932. Roosevelt addressed the problems of the depression by telling the American people that, "I pledge to you, I pledge to myself, a new deal for the American people." Programs paid for by the federal government were created to help the American economy regain its balance and run smoothly. During this time in history Roosevelt held fireside chats on the radio. He tried to build people’s confidence by telling them things would get better. Jayce, like the New Deal, has qualities, which enable him to bounce back and turn around a situation. He is resourceful, creative, reassuring and wise and seems to always have a “New Deal” to put into action up his sleeve.

Elizabeth I, Selma Sulejman – A colorful icon of seated, Queen Elizabeth is shown. She has a ruffled collar and long beads. Her hair is red.

Queen Elizabeth I of England was the first Protestant woman to rule England. Elizabeth's clever political skills and strong personal character were directly responsible for putting England (in 1558 a weak, divided country far outside the mainstream of European power and cultural development) on the road to becoming a true world economic and political power and restoring the country's lost sense of national pride. She made the church in England a Protestant denomination, the country’s main religion. This act was revolutionary. She was a strong and clever ruler and succeeded in furthering England’s interests despite foreign threats and religious unrest at home. Elizabeth gained the loyalty and admiration of her subjects. Selma can be compared to

Elizabeth because she has the quality of being a gifted leader and keeps an open mind to change. She served as Student Council Vice-President and also co-founded The Grapevine, which became a successful, enlightening and revolutionary school newspaper. Selma is also strong and clever like Elizabeth. Selma is revolutionary but loyal to those around her. She is tolerant but firm and focused and truly admired by many.

Clara Barton, Eilyn Vargas- A sepia photograph of Clara Barton is shown. She is seated and looking into the camera. She is wearing a long dark dress from the late 1800s or early 1900s. Her hair is parted in the center and pulled back.

Clara Barton was a dedicated nurse during the Civil War. She carried supplies to soldiers and cared for wounded men on the battlefields. Clara Barton, a shy farm girl from Massachusetts, harnessed her iron will and devotion to human welfare to accomplish the good works which earned her world fame. Despite life-threatening conditions, she provided supplies and care to troops in the American Civil War and became known as "The Angel of the Battlefield." Almost singlehandedly she founded the American Red Cross, which has provided comfort in times of crisis since 1882. As the Detroit Free Press wrote of Barton shortly after her death in 1912, "She was perhaps the most perfect incarnation of mercy the modern world has known." Eilyn for her kindness and caring for others is very much like Clara Barton. Her warm smile and calm temperament puts the people around her at ease. She is patient and compassionate and is always committed to human welfare. Eilyn is our Clara Barton of the twenty-first century.

Christopher Columbus, The Age of Exploration, THE CLASS OF 2008 – There is a drawing of one of Columbus’ ships. It has wide, white sails with red crosses on 2 and a brown bottom.

Christopher Columbus was an outstanding navigator and organizer of expeditions. He sailed across the Atlantic Ocean in search of a sea route to Asia. The desire for a sea route to Asia launched a remarkable wave of European exploration. Europe constantly improved its ships and navigational aids. Europeans had a passion for trading and a desire to preach Christianity worldwide. Christopher Columbus had a strong will and stuck with his beliefs. His single-minded search for a westward route to Asia changed Europeans commonly accepted views of the world and led to the establishment of contact between Europe and the Americas. Historians praise his persistence, courage, and maritime ability. Columbus’ explorations ended centuries of mutual ignorance about what lay on either side of the Atlantic Ocean.You, the Class of 2008, like Columbus are at your Age of Exploration. Yes, you have various personalities, interests, and desires but you all have one thing in common. You have the desire to explore, move ahead, and conquer. You spent your senior year investigating and navigating to a destination which will direct you to your destiny. You have discovered that there is something out there waiting for you and you are eager and prepared to go for it. Your persistence, intelligence, and courage will enhance and spread your talents in music, art, science, the media and psychology. Yes, the sky is the

limit. As you leave the New York Institute you will search for a route to greater wisdom, growth and success. You have the sea legs to endure and succeed. Go out and explore. There is something out there for each of you. Just always remember there are people who trust, love, and wish you a bon voyage and smooth sailing ahead.

--Mrs. Homsy--

GOVERNOR DAVID PATERSONFIRST LEGALLY BLIND GOVERNOR OF NEW YORKWE ARE PROUD TO BE GRADUATING DURING YOUR FIRST YEAR IN OFFICETHANKS FOR BEING A ROLE MODEL

There is a color photograph of Governor Paterson from his chest up. He is wearing a dark suit, white shirt and a burgundy necktie. His hair is short and he has a short beard and mustache which is gray and black. His black hair is short. (not actually a crew cut)

We would like to thank Mr. John Hernandez, Mr. Jason Laracuente, and Mrs. Nina Rodriguez for your help. You are one of the bunch!

This page repeats the cover’s caricatures. Added to this cluster of faces are 3 black and white photos of the faces of Mr. Laracuente, Mrs. Rodriguez, and Mr. Hernandez.

Autograph page at the end