spring 2007 partners in giving

PARTNERS IN GIVINGDevelopment Office of the Salesian Sisters

Daughters of Mary Help of Christians

www.salesiansisters.org

Celebrate Youth! Sr. Theresa Lee sings and signs along with the students from ImmaculateConception School in Marrero, LA, among the more than 1,700 Salesian young people, theirteachers, parents, and friends, who gathered with the Salesian community of New Orleans’

Westbank to celebrate the feast of Saint John Bosco. See story on page 17.

Partners in Giving • Spring 2007

2 • Partners in Giving • Volume XVII • Issue 2 Please call us toll-free: 877-OUR-NUNS

Sr. MaryRinaldi’s

LetterDear Friends,

Spring is here at last, and with it comes the promiseof renewal and rejuvenation, as we rejoice in theglorious Resurrection of Our Lord on Easter Day.My fellow Sisters and I extend to you and all yourfamily members God’s richest blessings.

Some news to report:

• This edition is Party Central! We Sisters arealways happiest when we can gather with ourfriends and family in celebration, at our Partners Circle Gala in Tampa, FL (pages 4-5),or our annual Spring Party in North Haledon,NJ (pages 6-7). All the fun is for a good cause:to help our kids. Thank you!

• Excitement is building for our Centennial,beginning just under a year now (page 3).

• The Partners Circle (pages 8-11) remains a greatblessing to our mission, and members inspire uswith their commitment and generosity. At theannual meeting in Tampa, the board initiatedthree exciting matching challenges: a $76,000matching grant for tuition aid at Villa MadonnaSchool in Tampa; a $25,000 matching grant for a renewal campaign for St. Joseph’s School inTampa; and a $100,000 matching grant for tuitionaid at Mary Help of Christians Academy in NorthHaledon. Wow! Thank you! And now we needyour help to win these challenges for the kids!

• But that’s not all. Another exciting matchingchallenge grant has been issued for theRetirement Fund of the Salesian Sisters. Ananonymous friend of the Sisters has agreed tomatch $50,000 if the same is raised.

I thank you for walking with us and supporting ourmission to the young. Happy Spring!

Congratulations to the First Place winners in ourCentennial Prayer Contest, conducted in SalesianSchools across the United States!

Level IA (grades 1-3): Keanan Brown, Mary Help ofChristians School, Corralitos, CA:

Lord, Please bless the Salesian Sisters because theyare kind, always there for us, and they teach usabout You. Amen.

Level IB (grades 4-5): Juliana Irizarry, Pope John Paul IISchool, Clifton, NJ:

Lord, You guided the Salesian Sisters to the U.S.A.100 years ago. You guided them to follow theirdreams. They spread the Good News to the NewWorld. Lord, now please help them to last for manymore years. Help many more women realize theirvocation in life to be a Sister. God bless the SalesianSisters. Amen.

Level II (grade 6-8): Mary Tomaino, Villa MadonnaSchool, Tampa, FL:

Lord, We gather every day together, the Salesianstudents, teachers, and Sisters, united as one inprayer to love and to serve you, our Lord. We askyou to continue to bless the Salesian Sisters forgiving 100 years of service in the United States.Lord, help them to continue their special way ofteaching the students. Let them grow stronger notonly in number, but also in love for You, our God,forever, till the end of time. Amen

Level III (grades 9-12): Michelle Hauer, Mary Help ofChristians Academy, North Haledon, NJ:

Lord God, Bless the good work of the SalesianSisters. One hundred years ago they came here andblessed us with their presence. After such numerousyears of service to the United States, we ask thatthey may be blessed and that their mission continueseternally here. Enable them to withstand the test oftime so many more children can be touched by theirlove. Lord, thank You for their presence andinfluence. May the graces their presence bringsnever end. Mary, please intercede on behalf of yourworkers and on behalf of their students. Amen.

Prayerful StudentsInspire Our Centennial!

Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org Partners in Giving • Spring 2007 • 3

MAKING HEADLINES AROUND THE PROVINCE

Get Ready: Centennial Celebration on the Way

Next year, 2008, will mark avery special year for theSalesian Sisters and their

countless friends here in the UnitedStates. One hundred years ago, on thefeast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel,July 16, 1908, the first four SalesianSisters arrived in New York Harborfrom Italy to continue the fine workof Saint John Bosco in a new world:America.

The Salesian Sisters have shared theirfaith and love for God and the poorby educating hundreds of thousandsof those most in need throughout theworld. In the U.S.A., the SalesianSisters’ influence can be felt from Eastto West, North and South in schools,camps, youth centers, and after-schoolprograms. All that we have – ourenergy, time, and resources – isdevoted to helping children. Werejoice in the last 100 years, celebrateour successes, and secure the futureby building on this strong foundation.

To prepare for the Centennial of the

Salesian Sisters, a national CentennialSteering Committee comprised ofSisters and laity from across the U.S.has been formed. Members areheading up varying responsibilities fortheir subcommittees and regions.

What’s being planned for the Centen-nial? Amazing things, starting with ourbeautiful Centennial Logo, designed byJude Maceren and shown here. Thelogo will inspire us in our planning, aswill the beautiful prayers written byour students for a Centennial PrayerContest (on the opposite page).

Future issues of Partners in Givingmagazine will be your ticket to learnmore about the CentennialCelebration, including :

• Special liturgies across the U.S.

• Youth rallies

• Past pupil gatherings

• Pilgrimages in the U.S. andEurope

• Special event galas

• A Centennial History Book commemorating the legacy of theSalesian Sisters in America

• A Campaign to support Endowments and Capital Needs.

Stay tuned!

AAnnaa MMaarriiaa AAuuxxiilliiuumm AAwwaarrddssThursday, May 17

Villa Madonna School,Tampa, FL

Monday, June 11Mary Help of ChristiansAcademy, N. Haledon, NJ

CCeelleebbrraattiioonn iinnHHoonnoorr ooff OOuurr

JJuubbiillaarriiaannss && OOuurr 9999tthh AAnnnniivveerrssaarryy

Sunday, August 5 Mary Help of ChristiansAcademy, N. Haledon, NJ

Save These Dates & Watch for Details in the Mail!

44tthh AAnnnnuuaall SSaalleessiiaannBBooyyss && GGiirrllss CClluubb GGoollff TToouurrnnaammeennttSaturday, June 2

Plantation Palms Golf Club,Land O’Lakes, FL

For more information, callTheresa: (813) 226-0836



Partners Circle Gala Salutes Two Stars!

On March 3, the Partners CircleDinner was held at the WestinHarbour Island Hotel in

Tampa, FL. Nearly 200 guestsgathered to support the mission of theSalesian Sisters and to honor two veryspecial people: Mark J. Spada andSr. Dora Adames, FMA.

Mark Spada received the highestaward bestowed by the Salesian Sisters,the Joseph J. McAleer, Sr., Award,for his outstanding commitment andkindness to the children of the SalesianYouth Center and the Salesian Sisters.Sr. Dora Adames received a specialrecognition award for her 33 years ofservice to the children and families ofTampa. Congratulations, Sr. Dora andMark! We are so grateful for yourcountless contributions.

Mike Guarnieri, chairman, presentedthe “State of the Partners Circle” toadvise our many loyal friends in thePartners Circle how their gifts were

Above, Honoree Sr. Dora Adames issurrounded by past pupils who remembertheir former teacher with great affection.Below, the Spada Family gets ready tocelebrate Dad Mark’s special award!

used to support the extraordinaryneeds of Province in 2006, including:

• An Emergency Fund for childrento help in any emergency that mayarise where Salesian Sisters workfrom New York to Florida.

• A Vocations Formation Housewas founded to assist with theformation and education of newSisters.

• Emergency funds were providedto care for the Elderly Sisters.

Thank you to our many “Partners”!We could not continue caring for theemergency needs of the Sisterswithout YOU!

We acknowledge all of our specialfriends from Florida as well as allthose who flew down from the Northto be with us in Tampa. Thank youfor your continued support,enthusiasm, and friendship!

PHOTOS BY DAVID HENLINE


Joe Garcia presents the Joseph J. McAleer, Sr., Award to Mark Spada.

Partners Circle Board chair Mike Guarnieri gives the State of the Partners Circle address.

Enjoying the gala are Anne Garcia, Pilar Caso, and Trudy Carey,all from Tampa, FL

Sr. Kim Keraitis present flowers to Ely Spadaas her husband and son proudly look on.

Villa Madonna students Tariq Sherif and his sister, Taleia,charmed the crowd with tales of how much they love their school!

New Partners Circle Board member Bob Harkinsof Franklin Lakes, NJ, with his family.


Our Spring Party was an Egg-cellent Time!


Sisters Liz Ryan and Pauline Joss, and Pat De Domenicis of Northfield, NJ(father of Sr. Loretta De Domenicis), enjoy the hospitality of Mary Help of Christians students at the Spring Party.

Right, Spring Party Committee Chairs Terry Laudone and Pat Connors,both of Wyckoff, NJ, share a smile with the Easter Bunny!

Sr. Grace Ruiz with Al Queisser of North Haledon, NJ,and his friend Irene Schimpf of Clifton, NJ.

Right, Long-time Salesian supporter Alma Curcio of Commack, NY, with her granddaughter,

who won a fantastic basket!

We love our Spring Party! Afestive time was had by allon Palm Sunday, April 1,

in North Haledon, NJ. Following asolemn Mass in Saint Joseph’sChapel, we headed next door for foodand fun. The gym sparkled as usual.The Market Basket lunch was superb,and the gift baskets and craft tablesseemed larger and more impressivethan ever! These pictures tell thewonderful story. We thank all whohelped make this party a success, butespecially YOU, our generous friends,who help us to support students at

Mary Help of ChristiansAcademy!


Sr. Balbina Lopez with her faithful adopter, Norma Bonamo ofStaten Island, NY, and her grandchildren, David and Francesca.

Smiles aplenty from Sr. Mary Palladino and Frances Durante of Waterbury, CT.

Sr. Frances Gumino with her sister, Carmela Seminario (right),and Dr. Allyson Hardy and her son, of Cresco, PA.

Sr. Mary Baroni enjoys the Spring Party with Mrs. Mary Cook of Fair Lawn, NJ.

Sr. Arlene Rubino with her sister, Donna, of Iselin, NJ, RosalieFrancaviglia of Rahway, NJ, and Sr. Monique Huart (with bonnet!)

Sr. Claire Perino with Jane Massey Licata of Evesham, NJ (left), andher sons, and Marie Sanvito (lower right) of Weekhawken, NJ.

MASSACHUSETTSMs. Josephine Petrillo

Mr. & Mrs. Theodore Reading

NEW JERSEYMr. & Mrs. Gary Baccaro

Mr. & Mrs. Richard BadenhausenMr. & Mrs. Robert Boland Mr. & Mrs. Larry ConditMs. Elizabeth Crovella

Mr. & Mrs. Frank DaviesMr. Anthony B. Della CerraDr. & Mrs. Frank De Maria

Ms. Debi DebiakMr. & Mrs. Robert Fox

Mr. & Mrs. Jerry Giamonco Mrs. Theresa Gutto

Mr. & Mrs. Charles LechnerMr. & Mrs. Michael Losurdo

Ms. Laura MannarinoMr. & Mrs. Anthony MarangiMr. & Mrs. John Peragallo Jr.

Mrs. Ann PetrocelliMr. & Mrs. Joseph Piotrowski

Mr. & Mrs. Cameron ReidMr. & Mrs. John Soldoveri

Mr. Joseph SpinelliMr. & Mrs. William Stuart

TD Banknorth

NEW YORKMr. & Mrs. Jack Betwarda

Mr. Vincent Cagnetta

Mrs. Joseph ClairMr. & Mrs. Charles Curcio

Mr. & Mrs. Charles Curcio, Jr.Mr. Edward DeLucaMr. & Mrs. Bill Leahy

Mr. John Lombardi & FamilyMs. Carol Martindale

Mrs. Joan Oliver Mr. & Mrs. Angelo Roncallo

Mr. & Mrs. Angelo SilveriMr. & Mrs. John Weaver

A Friend

NORTH CAROLINAMr. & Mrs. Paul Liotard

Mr. & Mrs. Chester Michewicz, Jr.

OHIOMr. & Mrs. Albert Klaben, Sr.

PENNSYLVANIADr. Allyson & Kevin HardyMr. & Mrs. Jack Hedgecock

Mr. Paul I. Sheaffer, II

TEXASMr. & Mrs. Bill Locklier

VIRGINIAMrs. Dominique Faust

WEST VIRGINIAMr. Guy Bucci

ARIZONAMs. Tonia Kempfer

A Friend

CALIFORNIAMr. Ian H. Graham

Mr. & Mrs. Robert ObenbergerA Friend

CONNECTICUTMr. & Mrs. Frank Merenda

Mr. & Mrs. Robert MoseyMr. Daniel Tomaselli

A Friend (2)

FLORIDAMr. & Mrs. Bernard Arenas

Mr. & Mrs. Carlos Baldor, Sr.Mr. & Mrs. Carlos Baldor, Jr.

Mr. & Mrs. Javier BaldorBianco & Mansfield, P.A.

Mr. James J. BurrowesMrs. Yoli Buss

Mrs. Trudy CareyDr. & Mrs. Antonio CastroColonial Bank of FloridaMr. & Mrs. Ted Couch

Ms. Anne CoyMr. & Mrs. J.C. De Lotto

Dr. & Mrs. Emilio EchevarriaMr. & Mrs. Luis Garcia

Dr. & Mrs. Reynaldo GeerkenMrs. Rose Graziano

Dr. & Mrs. Jack GugginoMrs. Elsa Gutierrez-Janulionis Mr. & Mrs. Robert Mace, Jr.Mr. & Mrs. Mark S. Reynolds

Mr. & Mrs. Philip RinaldiMrs. Peggy Theis

Mr. & Mrs. Ron YatesMr. & Mrs. Rene Zarate

Mr. Bob Zurek

GEORGIAMr. & Mrs. Charles Fantauzza

ILLINOISMr. & Mrs. Joseph Olivieri

KENTUCKYMr. & Mrs. Jack Danehy

MARYLANDDr. & Mrs. Andrew Saladino

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!Partners Circle “Members”: Annual gift of $500

Partners Circle Member, Lee Pallardy (center) of Tampa, FL, is one of thebest friends of Villa Madonna School and the Salesian Youth Center!

The Partners Circle was founded in 1991 to provide unrestrictedfunds for urgent needs of the Salesian Sisters and their mission.These include support for capital needs, scholarship assistance,

technology upgrades, and funds for those unforeseen situations thatrequire immediate attention.

Your donation to this unrestricted fund empowers the Salesian Sistersto continue their mission – the education and evangelization of today’schildren.

There are seven levels of membership, starting at $500, and these arelisted on these three pages. Won’t you consider joining this dynamicgroup? Please call us toll-free today: (877) OUR-NUNS.

Mr. Anthony GulinoMs. Ida Gulino

Ms. Nancy GulinoMr. & Mrs. Donald Hofmann

Mr. & Mrs. Edward Korn Mr. & Mrs. Anthony LainoMr. & Mrs. Joseph Massood Mr. & Mrs. Brian McAuley

Mrs. John McMahonMr. & Mrs. Mario Monaco

Mr. & Mrs. Jim MullerMr. & Mrs. Joseph Palladino

Mr. & Mrs. Joseph PfeiferWeaver Marine Agencies

NEW YORKDr. & Mrs. Michael Altamura

Ms. Lea BattiatoMsgr. William T. RodgersMr. & Mrs. Matt Sabatine

NORTH CAROLINAMs. Marianne O’Doherty

OHIOMr. & Mrs. James Millar

TEXASMs. Theresa C. Rauber

ARIZONAA Friend

CALIFORNIAGeraldine & Joanne Rizzuto

CONNECTICUTMs. Mary Gaine

FLORIDADr. Braulio Alsonso

Mrs. Pilar CasoMs. Judith Cataldo/

The Handmaiden FoundationDr. & Mrs. Rod Jurado

Mr. & Mrs. James W. LeeDr. & Mrs. Hernan Leon

Mr. & Mrs. H. Tyson Lykes IIMr. & Mrs. James Major

Mr. & Mrs. Frank MiddendorfMr. & Mrs. James MillarMr. & Mrs. Gene Perez

Judge & Mrs. A. RodniteMr. & Mrs. Mark Spada

NEW JERSEYMr. Alfonso DaloisioMr. Al De VincenzoMrs. Joseph Festa

Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Granatell

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!Partners Circle “Benefactors”Annual gift of $1,000

CONNECTICUTMr. & Mrs. David McAleer

FLORIDAMr. & Mrs. Declan

Mansfield

NEVADAMr. & Mrs. Timothy Murray

PartnersCircle

“Associates”Annual gift

of $750

ILLINOISMr. & Mrs. Larry Peterson

INDIANAMrs. Beatrice Lightfoot

NEW JERSEYTony Amato Family The Carini Family

Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Hoffman

Mr. Anthony PetrocelliMs. Celeste Tripi

NEW YORKMrs. Pearl Kalikow

CALIFORNIARichard Meissner,

Meissner Manufacturing

FLORIDADr. & Mrs. Vincent Bagli

Mr. Ray CampoMr. & Mrs. Joseph Garcia

Angel Oliva FamilyMrs. Ann Murphey

Dorothy Thomas Foundation

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! Joseph J. McAleer, Sr., Heritage Society Major Bequests to the Partners Circle

Partners Circle “Partners”Annual gift of $5,000

Mr. & Mrs. Bill McLaughlinMr. Stephen Papetti

Mr. & Mrs. Rodger RohdeMs. Roberta Ruocco

NEW YORKMr. John Cassara

TEXASMrs. Betty Turner

Mr. & Mrs. Ray Wooldridge

CALIFORNIAMs. Doriana Sobek

CONNECTICUTA Friend

FLORIDADr. & Mrs. Nelson Castellano

Mr. & Mrs. Lee Pallardy

NEW JERSEYMr. & Mrs. Tony Chernalis Mr. & Mrs. Robert Harkins

“Stewards”Annual gift of $10,000

NEW JERSEYMarcalus Family

Foundation Robert R. Waitts

Foundation

NEW YORKThe Sabatine Foundation,

in memory ofPhilip & Josephine Sabatine

TEXASMr. & Mrs. Fritz Duda, Sr.

PENNSYLVANIAA Friend

SOUTH CAROLINAMr. & Mrs. Tom Aldinger

Mr. & Mrs. Joseph HoffmanMr. & Mrs. Michael Massood

Mrs. Kathleen MedoreMs. Antonia Meola

Ms. Rose PeroneMr. & Mrs. Mark Swartzberg

NEW YORKMs. Jordon Carroll

Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Scala, Jr.

CONNECTICUTMr. Michael Guarnieri

Dr. Joseph McAleer

FLORIDAMr. Ernest “Cookie” Garcia

Dr. Idalia Lastra

NEW JERSEYMr. & Mrs. Marco BrizzolaraMr. & Mrs. John Connors

Partners Circle “Founders”: Annual gift of $2,000


On March 3, the Salesian Sisters Partners Circle Board of Trustees met at the Salesian Youth Center in Tampa,FL, to review the past year’s achievements and make plans for the year ahead. The leadership team of thePartners Circle was in full attendance and included Chairman, Mike Guarnieri (Stamford, CT); President of

the South, Javier Baldor (Tampa, FL); and President of the North, Maggie Waitts (North Caldwell, NJ).

Highlights from the meeting included the addition of two new board members: Linda Christiansen of Greenwich, CT,and Robert Harkins of Franklin Lakes, NJ. Welcome aboard! We’re honored to have you a part of our team.

Provincial Superior, Sr. Phyllis Neves, presented to the Board her “Vision for the Province” which was most excitingfor all to hear, especially that more young women have begun to study to become Salesian Sisters. The Partners Circlealso approved matching gift campaigns to jumpstart fundraising for Villa Madonna School and Saint Joseph’s School inTampa, and Mary Help of Christians Academy in North Haledon, NJ. Now, let’s get to work!

Partners Circle Board Reviews ‘06, Plans ‘07


Salesian Sisters and Partners Circle Board Members gather on the steps of the Salesian Youth Center in Tampa, FL, following their annualmeeting: (front row, l-r) Carlos Baldor, Linda Christiansen, Bill McLaughlin, Christina McAleer, Sr. Suzanne Dauwalter, Sr. Mary Rinaldi;

(back row, l-r) Robert Harkins, Dr. Vincent Bagli, Dr. Emilio Echevarria, Javier Baldor, Sr. Phyllis Neves, Maggie Waitts, Louis Garcia, Michael Guarnieri, Dr. Joseph McAleer, Dr. Hernán Leon, Dr. Antonio Castro, and Joe Garcia.


We Enjoyed Our Tour of the Sunshine State!

Sr. Mary Rinaldi and ChristinaMcAleer embarked recently ona trip to visit friends and

supporters of the Salesian Sisters insunny Florida!

Their first stop took them to SanibelIsland to visit dear friends andadvocates for children, Pat and FrankMiddendorf, who have 14 adultchildren and five dogs. TheMiddendorf ’s were very generous andprovided a beautiful place to stay thatincluded some very exciting alligatorpatrolling from the dock (!). We spentwonderful time together and shared countless stories.

With Naples not far off, Sr. Mary andChristina headed there to visit morefriends. Joanne Mansolillo, a memberof the Adopt a Sister program since1999, raved about it and just loves her

adopted Sister, Sr. Carmen Morales.We shared stories and fun together.

A little later they met up with JimBurrowes at Joey’s Restaurant inNaples, who welcomed theopportunity to meet the one-and-onlySr. Mary. He expressed hisappreciation for our taking the time tosee him and how grateful he was forhis adopted Sister, Sr. Ruth Steckerand for being a part of the PartnersCircle. Jim, thank you. It was ourhonor to meet you!Fort Myers brought the duo to the

home of Kathleenand Victor Medore,who are life-longfriends of Sr. Maryand go back withher to theirchildren’s days atCamp Auxilium.Kathleen and herhusband praised thefine work of theSalesian Sisters andthe great impactthey had not just ontheir children, buton their own lives.

Heading north, theteam met anotherdear friend of theSisters, BeaLightfoot, for lunchat IHOP in Dade

City. Bea has known the Sisters formany years and raves about theAdopt a Sister program and especiallyher dear Sr. Mary Palladino, whomshe considers to be like family. It wasnon-stop laughs being together!

Heading due north again . . . to seeEllen and Tom Folsom ofThonotosassa. Ellen and Tom, part ofthe Adopt a Sister program for years,and hosted Sr. Mary and Christina foran amazing lunch at their seven-generation home and provided a tourof their citrus grove afterwards.

To all of our dear friends in Florida,thank you, thank you! It waswonderful to be with you. Thank youfor your kind welcome and for all thatyou do for the Salesian Sisters.

Won’t you join our friends andAdopt a Salesian Sister for

yourself or a loved one? This makesa beautiful and especiallyappropriate gift for a First HolyCommunion or a wedding. For moreinformation, call us, toll-free:877-OUR-NUNS, or visit us onlineat www.salesiansisters.org

Our wonderful Florida friends: Kathleen Medore, Jim Burrowes, Tom and Ellen Folsom, Bea Lightfoot, and Joanne Mansolillo.

Play ball! Sr. Mary Rinaldi attended the annual New YorkYankees Luncheon in Tampa, invited by her friend, Trudy Carey,who also supports the Sisters. While Sr. Mary was there she metthe entire team and had photos and baseballs signed by all the

players – including Jason Giambi – to use at fundraisers.



Salesians Storm the United Nations!

From February 29-March 9, agroup of six Salesian Sisters andfour Salesian young women

participated in the United Nations’51st Commission on the Status ofWomen. The commission focused onthe elimination of discrimination andviolence against women, specificallygirls. In attendance were CharinaTolibas and Sr. Maria Victoria SantaAna from Asia; Memory Phiri and Sr. Roberta Tomasi, ProvincialSuperior from Africa; Rosy ClerGomez and Sr. Fabiola Ochoa fromLatin America; Veronica Barrios andSr. Phyllis Neves, Provincial Superiorfrom the U.S.; and Sr. BernadetteSangma and Sr. Runita Borja from theSalesian headquarters in Rome.

For this commission, the SalesianSisters decided to have the four youngladies attest to the works of the Sisters,as opposed to only having the Sistersreport about themselves. During a sideevent sponsored by the Salesian Sisters,Memory, Charina, and Rosy gavetestimony of their transformation frommarginalization to empowermentthrough the help of the SalesianSisters. Memory was also asked to givetestimony during an event called“Girls Speak Out,” moderated byKatie Couric and broadcast worldwide.

As a result of the success of thisyear’s involvement in the UnitedNations commission, the SalesianSisters will be applying for status asan official organization within theUN. With more than 14,000 Sisters,most of whom deliver servicesdirectly to youth such as Charina,Memory, Rosy, and Veronica,attaining this status will not bedifficult for the Salesian Sisters!

– Veronica R. Barrios

Salesians at the U.N. – Sr. Fabiola Ochoa, Sr. Phyllis Neves, Sr. Maria Victoria Santa Ana,Charina Tolibas, Sr. Runita Borja, Veronica R. Barrios, Rosy Cler Garcia, Memory Phiri,Sr. Roberta Tomasi, and Sr. Bernadette Sangma. This photo was taken after the Salesian

Sisters’ side event called, “Empowering Girl-Children in Vulnerable Situations.”

At left, CBS Evening News Anchor KatieCouric joins Salesian student Memory Phiri

after the” Girls Speak Out” event.

Below, Salesian students Charina Tolibas,Veronica Barrios, Memory Phiri, and Rosy

Cler Garcia pose outside the U.N. beforeheading to the General Assembly Room.

MemorialsReceived between January 16 and April 2, 2007


You can honor a cherished relative or friendwith an everlasting gift of love – a memorial.

Our Partners in Giving Memorials & Tributesgive you the opportunity to comfort thosewho have lost a loved one or tocommemorate a special occasion.

This gift lives forever. It supports the worksof the Salesian Sisters & joins your lovedones to the prayers & works of the Sisters.

The name of your loved one will appear inour Partners in Giving magazine – a pricelessgift to those you love.

Give the gift that lasts forever.

Enclosed is my Memorial/Tribute Gift of:

q

$25 q

$20 q

$15 q

$

Memorial for

Tribute for

Occasion

Please send an acknowledgement to:

Name

Address

My NameAddress

Detach & mail to Sr. Mary Rinaldi

659 Belmont Ave l

North Haledon, NJ 07508-2397

Please make checks payable to SALESIAN SISTERS

A LoveThat Lasts

Forever

Name – DECEASED

Name – LIVING

Hope M. McAleer:20th Anniversary

The McAleer Family

Tom YovanniMr. & Mrs. Julius

De Lotto

John O. BrianMrs. Dolores Clark

Lorraine KohlerMs. Barbara DrumMr. Kevin S. FinnMr. Thomas McManus

Elizabeth Ann KellyMr. Frank Gould Marine Equipment &

Supply Co.National Marine

DistributorsMr. & Mrs. Gary F.

Shillingford

Robert Mace, Sr.Mr. Robert H. Mace, Jr.

Louis GambelloMrs. Josephine Pellegrini

James MarcheseMr. & Mrs. Roger

Marchese

Patrick RestucciaMs. Francine Rigolioso Mr. Frank Rigolioso

Rita & Luisa SaggeseMr. Charles Saggese

Lucille VisaggioCapt. & Mrs. Victor Y.

Goldberg

Hellen WassonMr. Robert L. Neef

Sr. Mary Louise AguirreMs. Kathleen Capodice Ms. Frances CoulterMs. Severina DimarananMs. Elizabeth FarrellMs. Suellen FranzMs. Mary Louise

MahoneyMs. Angeline MartocciMr. & Mrs. Robert MoseyMr. & Mrs. Brad NillesMr. & Mrs. Fred PrzybyszMrs. Maureen

ScheuermannMrs. Joyce SchwartzMr. & Mrs. Tony WitczakSalesian Cooperators

Perpetual MassEnrollments for Sr. Mary

Louise AguirreThe Scheuermann Family

Ms. Judy OlanderMs. Eileen M. Carter

Simone BellMs. Alice E. Caravella

Antonio CacciolaMr. & Mrs. Joseph

DeVita

Mario CaracappaMrs. Madeline Fitzgerald

Thomas CarusoMrs. Candida Caruso

Willie Doll ThomasMrs. Clare S. Van Loon

Alyssa EstevezMrs. Nelly Camm

Maria Tedde & Giovanna Tedde-Mowbray

Mr. Giuseppe Tedde


You may now adopt a Sister to pray for your deceased friend andfamily member for one year. The

certificate (like the one shown here) will besent out immediately. It is a one-time gift witha suggested donation of $160. Adoptionforms are available at www.salesiansisters.org,or by calling toll-free, (877) OUR-NUNS.

TributesReceived between January 16 and April 2, 2007

Sr. Catherine Altamura,FMA

Mrs. Ilene B. Nelson

Sr. Virginia Dickey, FMAMrs. Cheri Brinkman

Sr. Rosalie Di Peri, FMAMrs. Ilene B. Nelson

Roger MarcheseMr. & Mrs. Roger Marchese

Pat ParisiMr. & Mrs. David Diedrick

Margaret PortilloMr. and Mrs. Robert

Wagner

Sr. Grace Ruiz, FMAMrs. Roseann Mosseau

Special IntentionMr. Charles Saggese

Saint Joseph’s Feast Day,March 19

Ms. Antoinette ColellaMrs. Edith Van den Houten

A BeautifulWay to Honor a Loved One

Remembering Sr. Mary LouiseEditor’s note: As reported in the lastedition of Partners in Giving, our dear Sr. Mary Louise Aguirre passed away onJanuary 14, 2007, at the age of 80.

I lost my beloved husband sixyears ago and Sr. Mary

Louise was a great comfortto me. Her prayers andalways cheerful dispositionhelped me through thatvery difficult time. Mygrandchildren loved herand we prayed for her eachevening. When they spentovernights here, Sr. MaryLouise was one of the first personsin their long prayer intention list. Shecame right after their parents andsiblings, and before me, their cousins,friends, and pets.

Tampa, FL

Imiss my Adopted Sister so much. Iconsider myself blessed for having

known her. I am very grateful for allher prayers. I know she is out of painnow and with God but it still leaves asadness with her gone. I’m enclosing$50 in memory of Sr. Mary Louise.I’ll try to send another $50 sometimelater in the year. God bless all of yourand the work that you do.

Jamaica, NY

Iwas so sorry to hear the news thatour Adopted Sister had died – I

wanted her to know that her prayers

had been answered. Sr. Mary Louisehad been praying for my twin nieces.One was a battered wife, and theother had breast cancer at age 37.With Sister’s prayers, my one niece is

now a director at a BatteredWomen’s Shelter, and the

other did not need treatmentafter surgery. We were alltogether at New Year’s andspoke of Sister’s manyprayers. I only wish shehad known of her good

results to my lovely nieces.Denham Springs, LA

My deepest condolences on thepassing of Sr. Mary Louise

Aguirre. I had been including her inmy prayers. She was praying for mysister before she passed on in 2003.She is at home now with the Lord. Iwill continue to pray for her. Pleasehave a Mass for her on my behalf.

Chicago, IL

Iam confident there is enormouspower in prayer, and welcomed the

opportunity to be the recipient ofSr. Mary Louise’s prayer offerings onbehalf of my intentions. I, in turn,included her in my daily prayers aswell. I am convinced Sister’s petitionsand offerings aided significantly instrengthening my spiritual well being.Know that I will always keep her inmy heart, as she awaits our arrival.

New Rochelle, NY


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GIVE US THIS

Day

Please reserve this day(s) in 2007 or 2008in honor of my special intention to support the Endowment for the St. Joseph Provincial Center for our retired Sisters:

Day 1 (Month, day): Significance:



Total enclosed@ $100 per day:

$ ____________

Please make yourcheck payable to:Salesian Sisters

Name

Address

Telephone

Please detach & mail this form to: Sr. Mary Rinaldi, FMA, 659 Belmont Avenue, North Haledon, NJ 07508

Please Help Our Retired Sisters In Need!

Have You “Given” Us Your Special Day?

During the next six months,is there some date that isspecial to you? Will you

share it with the Salesian Sisters? Itmay be a day of joy, a day of a sadevent, a day of recognition, a day ofany significant meaning in your lifeor a loved one.

We invite you to share this day withthe Sisters. It remains on thebulletin board in front of the chapelas a reminder and a sharing. TheSisters will keep that day in prayerthroughout the whole day. You,your family, the person you wish tohonor, will be given specialprominence and will be givenspecial consideration throughoutthe day. Let us know, then count onus for a special day just for you.

We Sisters feel honored to be asked.You and your loved ones willbenefit. God bless you!

This year, Mardi Gras at the St. Joseph ProvincialCenter was a great celebration. Everyone became

young at heart. Sr. Amelia was Mardi Gras Queen,parading in a lovely homemade float. Her attendantswere Sr. Helene, Sr. Loretta, and Sr. Antoinette. The

Mardi Gras spirit was alive and contagious as theQueen and her attendants strew beads out to the joy ofeveryone. How beautiful it is to taste, relish, and be

immersed in the Family Spirit, which keeps us youngat heart with a sparkle in our eyes and smile on ourlips! Our Co-Foundress, St. Mary Mazzarello, said,“Cheerfulness is a sign of a heart that loves the Lord

very much.” We surely do love Him!

Enjoying Mardi Gras are (left) Sr. Rosemary Cordes

and (above) Sr. Trini Maygagan.


Salesian Youth Report

From right, Sr. Phyllis Neves, Provincial; Sr. Maria Colombo, Principal, Archbishop Blenk High School; Linda Henry, Assistant Principal, Immaculate Conception School; Sr. Lise Parent, Principal, Immaculate Conception School;

and Dr. Lisa Taylor, Associate Superintendent of Schools, join in the Salesian community celebration.

Louisiana Rally Shows Spirit is Strong!

On January 31, 2007, 1,700Salesian young people, theirteachers, parents and

friends, gathered with the Salesiancommunity of the Westbank inNew Orleans, LA, to celebrate thefeast of St. John Bosco.

Past pupils, Salesian Cooperators,and clergy from nearby parishesjoined Immaculate ConceptionElementary School, ImmaculataHigh School, Archbishop BlenkHigh School, Archbishop ShawHigh School, St. RosalieElementary School, and Our Ladyof Prompt Succor ElementarySchool in a fervent, youthfulcelebration of life!

The gathering, held at the AlarioCenter, began with a EucharisticCelebration celebrated by Fr. SteveRyan, SDB, Vocation Director forSt. Philip the Apostle Province.Fr. Steve challenged the youngpeople to remember that faith canbe fun, and that joy is an importantpart of Salesian spirituality. Heused examples from the life of DonBosco to emphasize the importanceof devotion to Jesus in the BlessedSacrament and to Mary, Help ofChristians.

Young people from the high schoolsre-enacted the dream of Don Boscoconcerning the first missionaryexpedition. Contemporary Christian

music rocked the hall as the youngpeople sang, moved, and clapped tothe praises of their God!

A special blessing was the presenceof Sr. Phyllis Neves, Provincial. Sheendeared all those present with astory that touched both minds andhearts. She finally led the assemblywith a spontaneous demonstrationof praise and worship.

Lunch and a social, including a DJ,concluded the celebration! DonBosco’s words ring true: Love whatthe young love, and they, in turn,will love what we love!

– Sr. Maria Colombo, FMA



Welcome to the Salesian Family, Sacred Heart School inDover, NJ! When this Catholic school (at left) found itselfsuddenly in need of a new principal for the remainder of this

school year, they contacted the education “experts.” Sr. Domenica Di Peri (above, left) has taken the reins, assisted by Sr. Esther Cruz (at right. Sr. Emy Di Filippi, center, was on hand for the photo!). Wewish the Sisters well as they serve the young people in this school andparish, in the spirit of St. John Bosco and St. Mary Mazzarello.

CORPUS CHRISTI SCHOOL,PORT CHESTER, NY –American history sprang to lifeduring a Patriotic Assembly inFebruary, when fourth-gradestudents dressed up as theirfavorite historical figure orAmerican President and sangpatriotic songs like “This Land isYour Land.” Students in everygrade, from pre-K through 8,made presentations, coordinatedby Sr. Margaret Rose Buonaiutowith the assistance of facultyand staff.



VILLA MADONNA SCHOOL,TAMPA, FL – Congratulations toVilla Madonna School on a successfulaccreditation visit by a QualityAssurance Review team from theFlorida Catholic Conference (FCC)and the Southern Association ofColleges and Schools/Council onAccreditation and SchoolImprovement (SACS/CASI). Theteam spent two days visitingclassrooms and speaking to parents,teachers, and community leaders andsupporters of Villa Madonna afterreviewing the School ImprovementReport (an 18-month project).

The team is recommending to FCCthat they renew the accreditation, andrecommending to SACS/CASI thatVilla receive its initial accreditation.

The team met separately withchildren and parents and asked themto describe Villa Madonna in oneword. They heard words like:“family,” “caring,” “color-blind,” and“awesome” from both groups.

When students were asked tocompare Villa Madonna to a fruit andwhy, they received some interestinganalogies.

One first grader said, “Villa Madonnais like a cherry, it’s sweet and goodthings come in small packages.”Another observed, “Villa Madonna islike a watermelon. The students arethe seeds, all different and surroundedby sweetness – the teachers.”

An eighth grader shared, “VillaMadonna is like a peach. Attractiveon the outside; sweet when you biteit, like the students and the teachers.When you get to the pit, it is strongwhich is like our Salesian Sisters, thecore of our school.”

– Martaluz R. Pozo, Assistant Principal

Villa Madonna students sing the same song: “We love our school!”

Get Ready to “Fling” on April 26!

POPE JOHN PAUL II SCHOOL, CLIFTON, NJ – Maritza Loyola,parent, and Melissa Madrid, student, make baskets with Arthur Fierrofrom the St. Anthony Students Supporters for the third annual “Fling inthe Spring” basket raffle and dinner, to be held on Thursday, April 26, at 6 p.m. at the Valley Regency in Clifton. The fundraiser benefits students ofthe former St. Anthony School who now attend Pope John Paul II. Formore information and tickets, call (973) 942-3663.


The very first Villa Madonna Campus Golf Challenge was held onJanuary 19 at the Groves Golf & Country Club in Land O’Lakes,

FL. Golfers assembled to play 100 holes with a partner. One hundredholes of golf ? Yes, that’s right! Everyone was very tired and soreafterward, but triumphant that they had met their goal. Sponsors paid apledge per hole, and $25,000 was raised for the children of VillaMadonna School and the Salesian Youth Center/Boys & Girls Club! Theweather was beautiful, and everyone had a great time. Thank you to allwho participated. We look forward to seeing you again next year!


ST. JOSEPH SCHOOL, TAMPA,FL – Important and exciting thingsare happening at St. Joseph’s! Theentire library from the now-closed St.Patrick School was donated to St.Joseph’s, and the school now has afull-time librarian. Plans are in theworks for a major capital improve-ments, including a new pavilion forthe school and parochial activitiesthat will have a regulation basketballcourt. Plans for additional bathrooms,cafeteria improvements, and tuitionassistance are also in the works.

For funding, we have already receivedseveral matching grants, and signif-icant help from Fr. Felix Sanchez,Pastor of St. Joseph’s Parish. We’realso delighted that the Salesian SistersPartners Circle Board approved a$25,000 matching grant for ourpavillion project. Thank you, Partners!

We at St. Joseph’s are veryenthusiastic about these plans, and asyou can see, your help is greatlyneeded. Stay tuned for more news!

– Dr. Emilio Echevarria

CAMP AUXILIUM, NEWTON, NJ – Young children at the Camp Auxilium LearningCenter commemorated National Women’s History Month in March. Each class chose afamous woman to highlight through song, skit, or activity. Some of the famous womenwere Betsy Ross, Rosa Parks, St. Mary Mazzarello, Mother Teresa, Laura Bush, andClara Barton (kindergartener Gabriella Guerriero, at right). Mr. Ron Marin, Director of

the Newton Branch of theAmerican Red Cross (at left),explained that Barton, the “angelof the Red Cross,” began the workof the Red Cross in caring for ourinjured soldiers, a timely topic.He spoke to the children about allthe good that Barton did during herlifetime and all the good the RedCross continues to do. Sr. Lou AnnFantauzza concluded by telling the children about the good Jesuswants them to do as youngchildren, and throughout their ownlifetimes.



ST. JOSEPH SCHOOL, TAMPA, FL –Students held their annual “Mission Fair” onFebruary 2 and raised a record amount ofmoney. They brought in old books, movies,toys, and stuffed animals in good condition.There were games, competitive events, facepainting (left), and raffles. Studentsexchanged winning tickets for the used toysof their choice. With the help of parents andteachers, students raised $1,300, $650 for theDiocesan Mission and $650 for the SalesianMissions. In addition, truckloads of clothes,food (especially peanut butter), vitamins,medicines, and toys were collected for “HelpBrings Hope for Haiti.” This organizationtakes doctors and medical staff to Haiti tohold a summer medical mission. Studentshope their supplies will help assist in effortsto help as many as 1,000 people.

IMMACULATE CONCEPTION SCHOOL, MARRERO, LA – Seventh and eighth graders in the Builders Club ofImmaculate Conception School go to the Second Harvest Food Bank of Greater New Orleans every month to serve inwhatever capacity is needed, such as inspecting donated food items and repacking them for sorting and distribution.The Food Bank continues to serve many people who have returned to New Orleans and are still struggling to get theirhouses and lives back in order.


Editor’s note: This new feature of Partners in Giving magazinefocuses on the outstanding work of local businesses that supportthe Salesian Sisters and their mission.

With more than 60,000 homes to its credit since1976, M/I Homes has established a nationalreputation as a quality builder.

Their homeowner approval rating of95% during the past decade, and thesecond- and third-timehomebuyers, further attest tothe builder’s commitment tocustomer satisfaction. The Confidence Builder Programand M/I Homes’ 30-year transferable structural warrantyplay a big part in the company’s success.

Mark Spada, Division President of M/I Homes ofTampa, LLC, has helped make our connection with M/IHomes Foundation possible. The Salesian YouthCenter/Boys and Girls Club is grateful to the M/I HomesFoundation for their support of Tampa’s youth. Manychildren have been given opportunities for the future thatthey would have never imagined possible, thanks to thegenerosity of M/I Homes Foundation.

To learn more about M/I Homes, visit www.mihomes.com

M/I HOMES

TAMPA, FL

SALESIAN SISTERS BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Help Others, Help Yourself

If you are over the age of 70 1/2, you are eligiblefor a special IRA donation that can help you andthe Salesian Sisters. For this tax year and the next,

you can roll over up to $100,000 annually from yourIRA to charity. These gifts can be made tax-free andmay help you meet your required IRA distributionlevels. And as always, a gift to the Salesian Sisters willgo far in helping us continue to meet the needs of thechildren we serve in our ministries all over thecountry.

Simply direct your custodian to transfer a portion ofyour required minimum distribution on or beforeDecember 31, 2007, directly to the Salesian Sisters.Thank you!

The Robert R. Waitts Foundation wasestablished in 2002 by his wife, Maggie,who is currently the President of the

Partners Circle North Board and Chairwomanof the Dames of Mary Help.

The Waitts Scholarships enable young womenfrom Paterson, NJ, to attend Mary Help ofChristians Academy in North Haledon, NJ,and realize the bright future offered by aquality, faith-based Salesian education. Shownabove with Sr. Mary Rinaldi are the tworecent recipients of the Robert R. WaittsScholarship: Alexandra Bravo and LorenaHumancaja, both freshmen at Mary Help ofChristians Academy. Congratulations!

You, too, can make a real difference in thelife of a child by making a gift to one of ourendowed Salesian School scholarship funds.Details on the page opposite. Please join us!

Scholarships Makea Real Difference

Please Help Us Secure a Child’s Future

The Joan CullinanScholarship Fund, est.by her husband &friends, memorializesthe beauty & spirit of aSeptember 11 victim.

The Joseph J. McAleerVocations Fund,named for the PartnersCircle founder, est. byhis family, will fosterSalesian vocations.

The Frances EvelynGrandoff Endowment,est. by her daughter,Betty, aids studentswith high academicpotential.

The Rev. August P.Bosio ScholarshipFund, est. to honorthis Salesian priest byhis friend, benefitsMary Help students.

The Robert R. WaittsScholarship, est. by his wife, Maggie, forstudents at VillaMadonna School and at Mary Help.

The Rose La MalvaScholarship Fund, est.by her children, givesfinancial aid to fresh-men at Mary Help ofChristians Academy.

The Hope M. McAleerScholarship Fund,est. by her family, willenable young womento attend Mary Help ofChristians Academy.

The Sr. Wilma SanchezScholarship Fund, est.by her brother, ArsenioSanchez, benefitsstudents of St. Joseph’sSchool in Tampa, FL.

The Mary Santa CruzTrout Endowment, est.by her family, was thefirst fund to aid studentsat Villa MadonnaSchool in Tampa, FL.

The CorradoScholarship Fund,est. by the children, toaid a freshman at Mary Help ofChristians Academy.

The Ana MariaAuxilium Award, est.by the Baldor family,to benefit students atVilla Madonna Schooland at Mary Help.

The CariniScholarship Fund, est.in honor of Inez &Louise, whose estatesprovide funding toassist needy students.

The Clair/Militello ScholarshipFund, est. by theClairs, in honor oftheir parents, & byFr. Benedict Mili-tello, for Mary Help.

Could there be a better gift than providing a quality, faith-filled, Salesian School education for a child? You can makeit happen this coming fall by supporting one of our Endowed Scholarship Funds! Please check one (or more), fill

in the details below, and mail this page with your donation in the enclosed envelope. God bless you!

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Please accept my donation for ___________________________________________ in the amount of: $ _______________

Your Name: ___________________________________ Address: _________________________________________________

______________________________________________ Telephone: ________________ E-mail: _______________________

PLEASE DETACH & MAIL IN THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE. PLEASE MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO: SALESIAN SISTERS

The Dolores & VictorDe Lucia Scholarship,for students at MaryHelp of ChristiansAcademy in NorthHaledon, NJ.

The Dan CedolaScholarship, honoringhis character &courage, for students atVilla Madonna & theSalesian Youth Center.

Have You Moved?

Please help us update our mailing list.If the address on this magazine at right is incorrect, kindly fill in thisform with the correct information &mail it to our office. Many thanks!

Name:

Address on label:

Correct Address:

Salesian Sisters of St. John BoscoDevelopment Office659 Belmont AvenueNorth Haledon, NJ 07508-2397

Non-Profit OrganizationU.S. Postage

P A I DClifton, NJ

Permit No. 1104

PARTNERS IN GIVINGis a bimonthly magazine published by the

Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco Development Office659 Belmont Avenue

North Haledon, NJ 07508-2397Telephone: (973) 904-0102

Toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS Fax: (973) 904-0041

E-mail: [email protected]: www.salesiansisters.org

Federal Tax ID # 22-6043753Missionary Society of Salesian Sisters, Inc.

PRIVACY POLICY: Your name, address,and other information are held in confidence

by our ministry and will never be sold, rented,or given to any other organization.

Editorial BoardDr. Joseph McAleer, Editor

Sr. Mary Rinaldi, FMA, Development DirectorMrs. Christina McAleer, Director of Advancement

Janet Arias, Production ManagerAriane Nagrosst, Editorial Assistant

Partners in Giving welcomes letters, articles,and photos from contributors. We reserve the

right to edit for publication.

Partners in Giving • Spring 2007

Talk about your Easter bonnets! Saint Theresa Schoolin Kenilworth, NJ, kicked off its annual celebrationof Catholic Schools Week with a “Hats off to

Catholic Schools” event. Children created their own hats towear during the day. This was just one of the fun activitiesplanned for the week. Pictured above with Sr. TheresaSamson, principal, are a lively group of fifth grade students:Camille Mckenzie, Molly Dillon, Tracey Swan, andAlessandra Finis.

spring 2007 partners in giving

Documents

fellow sisters

matching grant

mary help ofchristians

salesian young people

partners circle pages

sisters arealways happiest

partners circle gala

mary tomaino