In thIs Issue - The Out-of

For Alumni, Families, and friends of The Out-of-Door Academy
Fall 2007
the banyan
Volume 2, Issue 2
In this Issue:
Hear the Thunder!
page 2
Extravaganza ’07
page 22
Volume 2, Issue 2
the banyan is published twice a year
for alumni, families, and friends of
The Out-of-Door Academy by the
Advancement Office.
Advancement Office Staff
Dennis Chapman
Director of Advancement
Julie Fineberg
Director of Communications
Shannon Neill ’03
Director of Alumni Relations & Database Manager
Amanda Stutzman
Director of Parent Relations & Special Events
Contributor
Luke Anderson
Sports Information Director
(L to R) Kristin Turner, Morgan Woods, Alex Bradbury, Natalie Buffett, Callan Malone
Class of 2015
Contents
Feature
Hear the Thunder!
2
Student News
Main Phone: 941-349-3223
Admissions: 941-346-1383
Siesta Key Campus — Grades PK-6
444 Reid Street • Sarasota, FL 34242
Lakewood Ranch Campus — Grades 7-12
5950 Deer Drive • Sarasota, FL 34240
www.oda.edu
Mission
As an independent, collegepreparatory school, our mission
is to provide an environment in
which students strive to achieve
high academic goals and to build
character through a balanced program
of academics, athletics, and the arts.
The Out-of-Door Academy admits qualified children of any race, color, nationality, or
ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded and
made available to the children of the School. Out-of-Door does not discriminate on the
basis of race, color, nationality, or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational
policies, admissions policies, scholarship, or loan programs.
Day to Day on the
Lower Campus
Day to Day on the
Middle and Upper
School Campus
4
8
Departments
Advancement
21
Parent Event Highlights
22
23
Drama
10
Arts
11
Getting to Know You:
Renee Huntley
Musical Notes
12
Tributes
24
Commencement
13
Kudos
25
Alumni Notes
26
Thunder Athletics:
Sports Wrap-up
14
All School Events
20
Upcoming Events
Extravaganza ’07
29
Openings/Closings
BC
1
T
The Out-of-Door Academy is putting more muscle into its mission
with a renewed emphasis on athletics. When students return
this fall, they’ll find a new athletic director, a new sports information
director, a new athletic logo and the foundations
of an exciting future for ODA athletics.
“Our mission statement charges us to provide an
environment in which students strive to achieve high
academic goals and to build character through a
balanced program of academics, athletics and the arts,”
said Head of School David V. Mahler, who has spearheaded
the drive for athletic advancement at Out-of-Door.
“In our ongoing efforts to educate the well-rounded student for the challenges of college and beyond,
we are taking important steps to make sure that we are known not only for an outstanding academic
program and college placement record, but also as a school that provides excellent opportunities for our
students in the areas of the arts, student activities and athletics. There are many important life lessons
that can be learned through participation in athletics and we want to make sure that every one of our
students is afforded that opportunity to participate and grow. Learning what it means to be a good
teammate, to be humble, to persevere and overcome adversity, and to make personal sacrifices for the
benefit of the team are just a few of the great character building experiences that occur when young
people participate in interscholastic athletics.”
Leading the charge
The newly hired athletic director, Jason Peters, comes to Sarasota from Memphis—with
a powerful legacy and record of achievement. The former head of athletics at Lausanne
Collegiate School will also coach the ODA boys’ varsity basketball team.
“Jason’s appointment is a significant milestone for our program,” said Head of School David V.
Mahler. “Given his experience as an independent school Athletic Director, coach, and teacher
we are confident that he will strengthen every facet of our athletic program in the years ahead.”
In seeking out a new post, Peters said, he had been looking for an independent school “in a great area
that emphasized the most important component of my philosophy, which is the well-rounded student
athlete.” In discussions with Mahler and in visits to the school, he continued, “I could tell it was an
exceptional place.”
Equally important, Peters explained, was that fact that “while [the Out-of-Door Academy] has a sound
athletic program in place, the school is challenging itself to take athletics to the next level, perhaps up to
the level of its academic standards.”
“I was excited to take on that challenge,” said Peters, who added that he will draw on his previous
experience to help the Academy meet its athletic goals.
2
“When I arrived at Lausanne,” he said, “the school was
more or less at the bottom of the barrel, athletically”—to
the point that students were reluctant to enroll. “Over nine
years,” he explained, “we built a strong athletic school, with
several of the programs, including boys’ and girls’ basketball,
swimming, soccer and lacrosse, becoming recognized at the
district, regional and state levels.”
And that, he said, is exactly what he wants to do at the Outof-Door Academy.
Among his goals for the school’s athletics component, he
said, is “creating a quality program for each and every sport
that is competitive, regardless of the talent pool available
at any particular time.” In addition, he stressed, “our sports
teams will compete in a sportsmanlike, dignified manner.
They will be competitive and hard-working, while courteous
to their opponents and the officials.”
The new Out-of-Door Academy athletic director attributes
his philosophy and many of his strategies to his father Jerry,
the basketball coach at Memphis University School, and the
winningest high-school coach in Tennessee, with 918 victories
over a 43-year career. Jason Peters played for his father, as
did his three brothers.
“Jason’s personal experience and professional background
have given him a great regard for the importance of athletics
in building character and community,” Mahler said. “He is
the type of leader we need in this key aspect of our School’s
growth, and we are eager to have him join us.”
For his part, Peters said, he is just as eager to relocate. “Both
my wife (Buffy) and I were overwhelmed at how beautiful the
[Sarasota] area is,” he said. “It’s a big change from landlocked Memphis, Tennessee!”
Getting the Word Out
Though not new to the school, English teacher and swim
coach Luke Anderson will take on new duties as the school’s
sports information director. A former NCAA All-American
swimmer at the University of Virginia, Anderson too is
devoted to having a strong athletics program.
While his teaching load will be lightened, he will certainly keep
busy, he said, establishing and maintaining press relations and
working “to help create an image of ODA athletics that the
school and community can look to with pride.”
Another of his tasks, he said, “is to completely beef up the
athletic portion of [the school’s] Web site.” Upgrades will
include an on-line newsletter and interactive technology that
will allow students, parents and other interested parties to
get the latest information on individual ODA sports.
What excites him most about taking on his new assignment?
“Everything,” Anderson said. “It’s an opportunity to create
something new that is part of our vision of taking all aspects
of our school to the next level.”
He’s also excited, he said, “about the amount of change
people are going to see going forward. Everything is going
to be different, starting with the introduction of a new athletic
director, all the way down to the programs at athletic events
and the daily reports that will be available to the public.”
“Every aspect of what we are doing in athletics will change
for the better,” he concluded.
Powering Up the Brand
Some changes already are apparent, as visitors to the
ODA Web site can see the Athletic Department’s new and
improved logo, which was unveiled at the recent year-end
sports banquet. According to ODA officials, the concept
includes a more formidable Thor to exemplify determination
and the inclusion of the school’s name to strengthen the
connection between the school and its athletic programs.
Foundation for the Future
Shayna Zion was hired last year as Out-of-Door Academy’s
Athletic Trainer. Ms. Zion is charged with overseeing every
student-athlete on every team in an effort to make sure
that they are healthy, fit and well prepared for competition.
The School has also recently expanded and upgraded its
training facilities with the addition state of the art training
and injury prevention equipment to take keep Out-of-Door’s
student-athletes on the field. According to Mahler, “we will
be making a sizeable investment in our facilities in order to
increase our athletic infrastructure over the next couple of
years.” Potential projects include a new track and field, an
expanded gymnasium and weight room, new baseball and
softball fields, and the addition of tennis courts.
Additional goals will be set during the coaches meeting to be
held before the school year, Peters added.
“I want the best for these kids,” the new athletic director
said. “I want them to be competitive, not necessarily in terms
of wins and losses,” but in effectively meeting the challenges
presented in athletics.
“I want them to have the best possible coaches with the best
possible support structure, a practice environment that will
dictate success and an outstanding, quality sports program,”
he continued.
And, he stressed, he is excited to play a role in the
Out-of-Door Academy’s continued growth and success in
presenting high-quality programs for its students throughout
all its endeavors.
3
STUDENT NEWS
Day to Day
on the Lower Campus…
PK
Pre-Kindergarten spent Oo Week studying the ocean
and its many creatures. Students created ocean books
that included shark puppets, starfish tracings, and
octopus information. The students combined their
knowledge of caring for the earth and keeping our
oceans clean to create a life-sized mural to display in
their classroom. Their study of the ocean culminated
with a field trip to Mote Marine where they had the
opportunity for hands-on field work while learning
about the care and protection of sea turtles.
TK students enjoying their time in the butterfly garden
TK
The Shining Stars of Transitional-Kindergarten enjoyed
learning about the lifecycle of butterflies this spring. It all
started with the arrival of a shipment of live caterpillars.
They watched as the larva ate and grew larger each
day. Soon the larva hung upside down from the top of
their container and created chrysalis, becoming pupa.
In about five days, students were rewarded with the
emergence of 5 painted lady butterflies. Students were
fascinated by the metamorphosis. Once the wings dried
and the butterflies began fluttering around their habitat,
students released them into the garden.
4
K
The kindergarten classes spent
the second half of the school year
continuing to develop their reading
and writing skills through many
“Recipe for Reading” activities. As a
result, the students have advanced
Alex Aberle and Hannah Bizick
their reading abilities and are now
making an art project
reading an assortment of books,
stories, and poetry. They have also discovered that they are able to
write stories of their own and feel at ease whenever they write. The
world of words has truly opened up to them.
1st
The annual 1 grade Iditarod was recently run! All 1 graders were paired up for
the race, which started early in the morning. The Iditarod race is unlike any other
event on the Lower Campus, covering miles of the most extreme and beautiful
terrain known to the Siesta Key Lower Campus. The mushers and their dogs
raced, rested, slept and eventually crossed the finish line in style!
st
st
2nd
“We’re Going to America!” was the chant
heard from our second grade “immigrants”
as they boarded the U.S.S. Liberty to travel
third-class in hopes of finding a better
way of life in America—the land where
the streets were supposed to be paved
with gold. The passengers first had to
earn money in class to buy a third class
ticket, and they were then photographed
in immigrant garb for their passports. After
researching their own family heritage, each
student came up with an immigrant name
and filled out official documents, telling the
“inspectors” what job they would pursue
and where they planned on settling.
The trip was quite harrowing with violent
storms, and most passengers were
overcome with seasickness. Students were
all moved to see a quite life-like Statue of
Liberty greet them at New York Harbor.
They found it frightening to be checked
2nd grade students listening intently to stories of Ellis Island
by so many inspectors and doctors to get their
official papers stamped. Those students with
incurable illnesses were told that we would have to go back to the “Old Country” and would not be able to stay with their
families. It was a sad moment until, in true second grade style, a famous Dr. Shnoodlemeister was able to cure the sickest
immigrants and they ALL boarded the train to their new life. The second graders actually lived the Ellis Island experience and
will always remember this unit of study.
5
STUDENT NEWS
3rd
On May 18th the 3rd
grade presented their
20th Anniversary Wax
Museum. The students
have read about persons in history who have made
a contribution to society, written reports about their
special person, and made a poster board display of
their lives and accomplishments. The students dressed
as their person and become their waxed figure in a
cafeteria-turned-museum. A special surprise this year
was a visit from the museums co-creator, Mrs. Joanne
Hagner. Twenty years ago the young and ambitious
efforts of both Mrs. Waterman and Mrs. Hagner put
this yearly special into the history books of our School.
4th/5th
The 4th and 5th grade participated in the Math Contests
sponsored by the Math League. Schools from all over the United
States partake of this event and a certificate is awarded to the
student with the top score from each grade level.
Kyle Schweizer, ’14
6th
The sixth grade was busy in May as they presented their
“Faberge Eggs” that they created after studying the former
Soviet Union in geography this term. Peter Carl Faberge, the
talented Russian jeweler, created his works of art for the czar in
the late 19th century. Our students may not have used precious
jewels to adorn their eggs, but they did use priceless pictures
and/or mementos to describe themselves. (L to R) Neall Denman, Wyatt Page, Elton Roberts, ’13
(L to R) Darby Tingle, Ashtin Frank, Haley Preininger, ’13
6
Lower School Events
GrandFriends’ Day
The annual Lower School GrandFriends’ Day
was held on March 16th on the Siesta Key
campus. The celebration began with a continental
breakfast served under the Banyan trees,
followed by musical performances and a display
of international booths.
Paul Reiter & Marilyn Hennessy and Samantha Albano, ’13,
enjoying GrandFriend’s Day together.
Banyan Day
Jennifer Layer, ’17
Jump for Heart Raises $9,378
The annual Jump for Heart event was held on Valentine’s Day. As in the past, the Lower School students “Jumped for Heart”
to raise funds for the American Heart Association. This event
offers many benefits: first, the money our School raises will help
fund potentially lifesaving research into heart and blood vessel
disease. Second, the event funds the development of educational
materials that teach the importance of heart health and staying fit.
On May 31st, the last day of school on the Lower
Campus, went out with a suitcase race! Banyan
Day is a wonderful tradition started in 2006, giving
the Lower School community an opportunity to
come together
to celebrate
the finish of a
super year. It
was a simple
day, filled
with yearbook
signings, good
food, and a
bit of studentSpanish teacher Angela
faculty rivalry.
Giorgianni-Mejicanos enjoying
the traditional “suitcase relay”
With Banyan Day,
on the last day of school
the Lower School
celebrated their
last day of the 2006/07 school year as a family!
Sleepytime Storytime
Stuffed animals, pajamas, quilts and blankets were all needed to prepare for the annual Sleepytime Storytime evening on
January 19th. All Pre-Kindergarten, Kindergarten and 1st-graders enjoyed the evening of stories written and read by our own
faculty members. The night ended with cookies and milk, of course!
7
STUDENT NEWS
Day to Day
on the Middle & Upper School Campus…
7th Graders Go Down Under At Sea Camp
From May 20th to 23rd the seventh grade traveled to
Newfound Harbor Marine Institute, located on a ten-acre
peninsula of Big Pine Key,
which is home to some
of the most extraordinary
sea and shore wildlife
in the world. It was an
ideal site for students to
explore tropical marine and
terrestrial habitats, and they
experienced an underwater
edification that they will not
soon forget!
Middle School Hosts Guest Speaker
Students in the 8th grade had a unique opportunity to host
a special series of World War II veterans during the course
of the winter and spring. Lt. Col. Doolittle was a navy pilot
during World War II who choreographed an air raid on
Japan in April 1942, the first air raid by the United States to
strike the Japanese home islands after Pearl Harbor. Lt. Col.
Doolittle’s co-pilot, Lt. Col. Richard Cole, came to speak to
the 8th grade
students about
his experiences
during World
War II. As they
studied the
second great war
and its aftermath,
this was a rare
and exciting
opportunity
for students.
(L to R) Lt. Col. Doolittle, Kate Ellicott, Lt. Col. Cole,
Austin Ferro (class year of students ‘11)
8
(L to R) Jonathan Pina, Austin Ferro, Tim Dobosz, Nick Contino,
Taylor Kess, Class of ‘11
8th Grade Visits Washington D.C.
and New York City
For the Class of 2011, the much anticipated
Washington, D.C. and New York City trip finally arrived
in mid-May. Students visited the National Archives,
Capitol Hill, Arlington National Cemetery, the Statue
of Liberty and Ground Zero. The highlight of the trip
was viewing a performance of Wicked on Broadway,
a suiting finale to a wonderful educational experience
that will last students a lifetime!
Upper School Events
Thunderpalooza
Building new traditions! In just
its second year of existence, the
Student Activities Program is quickly
establishing some new Out-of-Door
traditions. The latest in this line
of newcomers is Thunderpalozza,
a student and faculty talent show
that dazzled nearly 200 spectators
on May 12th. Thunderpalooza was
conceived, organized and directed
through a joint effort by the Tri-M Society and Student Activities director
Tim Brewer. The evening showcased upper and middle-school talents and
raised money for Manasota BUDS, an organization for families in Sarasota
and Manatee counties who have children with Downs Syndrome. Seeing
the success of Thunderpalooza 2007, students are already planning their
acts for next year’s show!
A Royal Affair
Prom 2007 was a Masquerade Ball
held at Serenoa Country Club. A
total of 94 Junior and Senior class
members were in attendance. The
students danced until midnight
and then headed to afterprom, a tradition begun
by the Parent Association
in 2006. The Parents’
Association, in conjunction
with administrators, faculty
and staff, coordinated
a stellar “after-prom”
party that continued into the
Top photo: Kevin Mercier, Spencer Whealy
morning hours. The hit of
and David Cooper, ’07
Bottom photo: Rachel Yonker, Worthy Dye
the evening was a psychic,
and Xandra Gebhard, ’07
who impressively hypnotized
students! Along with being mesmerized by the psychic, students enjoyed
laser tag, caricaturists and most importantly, each other’s company.
And More…
Other traditions that continued this past year include, Howl-O-Scream at
Busch Gardens, the Homecoming Bonfire with Mattress Race, Grad Bash,
and After Prom. In addition to Thunderpalozza, some new events this
past year included a Laser Tag Night and Orientation Day Kick-off. The
school year started with a bang, and the hits just kept coming!
Dan Goldman, ’09
The Thunder Cup
The Thunder Cup Competition is a year
long battle for class supremacy, where
students compete in big weekend
events such as Dodgeball Night, Bowling
Night, and a three-on-three basketball
tournament dubbed “March Madness.”
Additionally, lunch time competitions
such as the Grape Toss, the Mystery Bag
Relay, and the Candy Cane Pass add
dramatic excitement to the normal class
days. By competing in these events,
classes accumulate points throughout
the year, leading to the announcement
of a victor in April. The winning class
is awarded with a party at Livingston’s
Amusement Center, and has their class
year inscribed on the Thunder Cup
Trophy, which permanently resides in
the Thunderdome. Last year the Class
of 2006 set the bar high, and the Class
of 2007 has met the challenge. Both
classes were successful in their quest for
the Thunder Cup, creating a Senior Class
winning tradition. Can the Class of 2008
keep the tradition going?
9
STUDENT NEWS
Drama
High Society
The Out-of-Door Academy lived
up to its name with its first drama
production held under the stars
this past January. The Drama Club
presented the musical romantic
comedy, High Society, which opened
on January 24th on the Lakewood
Ranch campus’ quad.
their absent foster
mother knows which
one. They decide to
rule jointly until the
mystery is solved.
But they also find
out that the king was
married in infancy to
the daughter of an
impoverished duke
and duchess, who have arrived in
Venice in search of the heir. And—of
course—the beautiful daughter is
already in love with a lowly drummer.
In true Gilbert and Sullivan fashion,
there are many twists, intrigues, and
complications. But the true identity of
the king is finally revealed, and “all’s
well that ends well.”
Based on The Philadelphia
Chelsea Gonzalez ’07, William Crouse ’07, Laurel Hurd ’12,
Story, Cole Porter created the
Cat Scheufler ’08 and Maria Sulimirski ’09
delightful movie musical High
Society, starring Grace Kelly, Bing Crosby, and Frank Sinatra.
A Night of Parody
This screwball comedy revolves around the attempts
The Drama Club presented two one-act plays this past
of Tracy Lord’s childhood friend, jazz musician, and exseason, opening the dual production on April 12th. The first
husband, Dexter Haven III, to prevent her from making a
show was Richard Conlon’s The True Story of Cinderella. This
disastrous second marriage to a bland businessman. By
was a wonderful comedy presented by the cast at the Florida
involving tabloid reporters, Mike Connor and Liz Imbrie, as
Theatre Conference in Lakeland this past November and
well as Tracy’s nosey little sister, Dinah, Dex uses all means to
at the District 6 One-Act Competition of the International
persuade Tracy of her mistake. The story of the men who vie
Thespian Society in January at North Port High School.
for Tracy’s love is told through sophisticated and witty dialog,
with wacky moments and—of course—the timeless love
song, “True Love.” Lend Me A Tenor
Comedy was the flare of the Drama Club’s rendition of
Lend Me a Tenor, which opened at the Siesta Key campus
on February 7th. Set in an elegant 1930’s hotel room, this
clever contemporary farce boasts a cast of eight outrageous
and colorful characters in a romp of desperate measures
and compromising situations. The Cleveland Grand Opera
Company is celebrating its biggest night with a gala
fundraiser. A world-famous tenor is scheduled to sing the
lead, but even before he arrives, things begin to unravel.
The characters pursue any line of deceptive actions—no
matter how improbable—to extricate themselves from
absurd situations. There are lots of deliberate or accidental
disguises, confusion of identities, wrongful accusations, and
six slamming doors.
Gondoliers
The Drama Club presented Gilbert and Sullivan’s operetta
Gondoliers at the Glenridge Performing Arts Center, opening
the show on March 22nd. After two very handsome and
charming gondoliers marry their sweethearts, they learn
that one of them is really the King of Barataria—but only
10
The second play was Doug Rand’s The Idiot and the Oddity,
a parody on Homer and Greek theatre. The cast consisted of
over twenty MS/US students plus six faculty members. This
show, directed by Ms. L’Tanya Evans, was quite a spectacle.
The Out-of-Door Academy Drama
Celebrates New Inductions and Elections
in the International Thespian Society
On May 15, 2007, The Out-of-Door Academy Drama
Department, also known as Troupe Number 6908 of the
International Thespian Society, proudly added 13 new
members to the dramatic arts honor society. Despite being
a recognized member of this honor society for only 2 years,
this induction brought the lifetime total roll to 37 students—a
wonderful accomplishment, and a testament to the hard work
of our student actors and their fearless (but alas, retiring)
leader, Mr. Robert True. Competition for entrance into the
International Thespian Society is intense; membership may
only be earned through qualifying participation in numerous
high school productions.
New members of Troupe 6908 of the International Thespian
Society are Mike Auchter, Cayman Bone, Cameron Deems,
Lauren Dobbins, Steven Freund, Sarah Hitchcock, Ellie
Hurd, Gina Maraia, Souki Mehdaoui, Sean Meyler, Marissa
Montgomery, and
Veronica Rosser.
Congratulations are
in order for all!
Shortly after the
induction ceremony,
Troupe 6908 held
officer elections
for the 2007-2008
Arts
school year. Troupe officers are responsible for many aspects
of drama department administration, including tracking
membership points of all student actors, assisting in troupe
correspondence, and keeping a portfolio of programs, news
clippings and posters of all productions.
The 2007-2008 officers
President—JD Carter
Vice President—Cat Scheufler
Membership Coordinator—Lauren Ettinger
Secretary/Treasurer—Kevin Smith
Co-Historians—Becca Huntting and Alex Salzberg
Fine Arts Festival
Arts’ Day
This past January, from the Bayfront to Lemon Avenue,
and from First Street to Ringling Boulevard, downtown
Sarasota came alive with fine-arts performances
and exhibits! Out-of-Door art teachers stayed busy
coordinating the event for all to enjoy. Congratulations to
all who helped represent The Out-of-Door Academy in
fine style! (Pictured from left to right: David Spencer ‘07,
Trae Huber ‘09, Alex Salzberg ‘08 and Mario Aiello ‘08.) LS Arts’ Night
This year’s annual
spring concert by
4th, 5th and 6th
grade students of
orchestra, band and
chorus merged with a
visual art exhibit by
the lower school art
students of grades
4th grade art students painting a
pretty picture together
Pre-K through 6.
Every student’s
finest art works were on display as teachers turned the
library, tutor room, and classrooms into creative and
elegant galleries. Parents, friends and neighbors viewed
student artwork as Upper School Art Instructor, Paula
Kozak, mentored lower school art instructor, Linda
Wallin and helped to ensure that student works received
their due respect and special awards. The evening’s
collaboration of art and music turned out to be a
highlight of the year, and will be an event to look forward
to in the coming school year.
Saturday, May 5th was a magical
night of musical performances,
artistic exhibitions, and fine
food. The Fine Arts Festival
showcased the MS/
US Concert Band, the
Upper School Wind
Ensemble, MS/US
String Ensemble, music
students from the Lower
School, the MS/US
choruses and the Jazz
Ensemble.Additionally,
the library was transformed into an art gallery by Ms.
Kozak and Ms. Thomas the impressive display of student
creativity included drawings, paintings, sculpture, masks,
and architectural models, and Chinese Brush painting.
Arts Guild Sponsors Visiting Artists
The Arts Guild recently sponsored a variety of programs
on both campuses in conjunction with the Artists-inSchools program. Artists-in-Schools are one of the
Sarasota County Arts Council’s longest running programs,
and have served thousands of people of all ages for the
past fourteen years. Pamela Sumner was the visiting artist
who worked with students for a three class workshop
at the Upper School. Sumner uses traditional tools and
brushstrokes that Asian painters have used for centuries.
As an American artist she creates work that is complex in
its simplicity, capturing the essence of her subjects in just
a few strokes. Working closely with students, she began
to teach them this delicate art form. Additionally, Lower
School students were treated to stories by Gladys Varga
from Gladtales Productions. Special thanks to the Arts
Guild for their support of this venture!
11
STUDENT NEWS
Musical Notes
LS Music
The Music Department had a very exciting and busy year.
Students of general music, as well as the specialized chorus,
orchestra, and band, worked hard to learn and prepare
multicultural and seasonal music for a variety of concerts
and festivities. The lower school orchestra students started
out the year by joining forces with the middle and upper
school instrumental students with musical presentations
for Convocation. Soon after, the fourth grade students
performed a concert in honor of ancestors and relatives
who settled in the New World. Songs about immigration
and our rich heritage helped us to celebrate traditions of all
nations. Third grade students sang about the Underground
Railroad and second grades performed a musical about the
history of Out-of-Door Academy, with original script and
songs written by Linda Vasilaki and Sean McDonald and
the second grade team. The 4th, 5th and 6th grade music
students performed in honor of winter solstice and the PreK
through 1st grades delighted parents with a Cookie Concert
just before winter break. Spring season brought grandparents
to our school to enjoy a concert in their honor, as students
sang and depicted customs from around the world in
conjunction with International Day. Instrumental students and
choral students reached new heights as they learned and
performed new and challenging pieces under the direction
of Betty Silberman (chorus), Dr. Linda Vasilaki (orchestra and
Celebration Chorus) and band (Patrick Miller).
Middle and upper school music students, under the direction
of Patrick Miller and Dr. Lisa Rosser, performed great
concerts in December and May. They offered lower school
instrumental students a special challenge when they invited
them to learn and play specific songs with them in concert.
Dr. Rosser and Mr. Miller took the advanced students around
the community to perform at various important functions,
including our own Extravaganza. Listening to them perform is
an awesome experience, and there are times when it is hard
to believe they are students and not professionals!
Due to the overwhelming musical abilities of our students
in grades 2-6 and their strong
desire to develop it, Dr. Vasilaki
started a new “Celebration
Chorus” for students who
wanted to play an instrument but
who also wanted to develop their
vocal abilities. The Celebration
Chorus made it possible for
those in band and orchestra to
also keep up with their singing.
They learned two and three-part harmonies that enhanced
many of the pieces that were programmed on our various
concerts. They rehearsed at the wee hour of 7:30 a.m.! Even
at that early hour, they managed to warm up their voices and
cheer up the music building every Friday morning. They were
a major part of every concert.
Encore! Encore!
Encore faculty piano teacher Susan
Laurence teaching Corey Raggo ’16
12
Encore students, grades Pre-K through 12, from The Out-of-Door Academy and
surrounding schools presented one or more concerts per month during the winter
and spring terms. A city-wide Arts’ Day Celebration kicked off the new year, as our
orchestra students performed a “Prelude to Arts’ Day” concert for the Sarasota
Community and our visual art teachers and students
conducted a popular arts’ booth on Main Street Booth for
aspiring young artists. In February, Encore music students
presented their annual Valentine concert at Borders Book
Store. April’s concert took place in Savannah Grande,
May’s concert found our musicians performing in “The
Gardens”, and in June, the students performed an annual
ODA Summer Music Camp
solo and ensemble recital. Through out the summer months,
our Encore students can be heard participating in concerts on and off campus.
They performed God Bless the USA and When Johnny Comes Marching Home at
a patriotic concert at the Church of the Palms in July. In August, they will be performing
as part of the ODA summer music camp festivities. Every concert brings with it new
challenges and experiences, and the students rise to each occasion in style! C
Commencement
Commencement exercises for 6th, 8th and 12th grade took place on June 1st and 2nd. From the Siesta Key Chapel to the Petrik
Thunderdome, students accepted their diplomas in grand style. Excerpts from student graduation speeches given at the three
ceremonies show how dedicated our students are to our community.
Class of 2007
Brenna Stevens (Grade 12):
Whether we succeed and win the game, or fail, it won’t matter, because we’re
learning an invaluable lesson—that life is about taking chances. The school took
a chance, a bumpy chance filled with its share of mistakes, but it was necessary.
And now, it’s our turn to take a chance, get off the bench, knowing that even if we
fumble a few times, the game is never over…Just once in awhile, remember how
far we’ve come. Remember to take a chance. Remember to appreciate the people
who helped us along the way.
William Crouse (Grade 12):
It is not only the teachers that make up ODA’s atmosphere, it is every student sitting here today that has made this year so lifealtering. The senior class is a class united, a class where you can talk to anyone, where you can ask anyone to borrow an English
book or a calculator. These men and women are the people I have been excited and happy to surround myself with for the last
fourteen years of my life. They are my family and my friends, they are also my role models and my colleagues. I have no doubt
that each one of these remarkable people will leave an everlasting mark on the world.
Ian Mullen (Grade 8):
We have all made it here, the end of middle school. We have passed
our greatest challenge of the year, our finals, and we are ready for
high school. Although we will be losing some of our friends over
the summer, we will be gaining many more in our four years of high
school. Not only will we have new classmates, but we will have a
completely new set of teachers. We will be thrust away from the
teachers that we have learned from in our two years of middle school
and thrown into the grasp of new teachers that are waiting to guide
us. We are all eager to take on the challenges of high school, just
as we were eager to take on the challenges of middle school. With
Class of 2012
those challenges, however, will also come more opportunity. Our
Middle school years have laid the foundation, now we look forward to using that foundation to build a fortress of success over
next four years of high school. It is difficult to move on, but we are all looking forward to the challenges that await us.
Samantha Albano (Grade 6):
I know what ODA has given me. It’s fine friends, and most of all, real
confidence. Ten months ago, I never would have thought that I would be
up on stage and singing, and look at me now. This is what the faculty of
ODA has done for me. To them and the school I am truly grateful.
This year will never be erased from my memory.
Class of 2014
13
STUDENT NEWS
Thunder Athletics
S p orts W ra p - u p
Luke Anderson, Out-of-Door Athletics
Lady Thunder Basketball Looks to Future
Underclassmen provide depth and potential.
Guided by lone seniors Erin Kane and Ro Marchese, the
ODA Women’s Basketball team finished their season 1314, advancing to the sweet-sixteen in regional playoff
competition. After a heartbreaking overtime loss to Heartland
Christian of Lakeland, FL in Regional play, the Lady Thunder
turned their thoughts to the 2007-2008 season, where they
hope to improve on their past performance.
Coach Carl Williams describes his team as focused. “They
come in, they work hard, they want to get better, they want
to learn, and that sets the tone for the season,” said Williams,
who is admired by his team for his determination and ability
to motivate. Shaping his season much like a basketball
game, Williams describes the “four quarters” of high-school
competition. “The first quarter is about trying to find where
the pieces fit, learning our system. In the second quarter,
which leads up to the winter break, we polish our skills. In the
third quarter we turn it on, building the collusiveness of our
top five. The fourth quarter is District competition and on.”
The Florida 1A District Tournament, which coach Williams
describes as “the toughest in the state,” seemed to provide
some orientation for the season as well. “We had our goal
set on trying to get out of District,” said Williams, a goal
that proved difficult to meet. Seeded third entering the
14
tournament, the Thunder advanced to the final round, where
they faced 2006 state runner-up Sarasota Christian for the
District Championship. Falling to the SC Blazers, the Thunder
finished the tournament in second place, allowing them to
advance to the Regional tournament. Sarasota Christian later
advanced to the final four in state playoff competition.
Senior Captain Erin Kane attributes this season’s success
to teamwork. “We developed the teamwork we needed
so we could learn how to win,” said Kane, “We knew we
could develop the skills we needed along the way.” Kane’s
tenure on the Lady Thunder Basketball team has allowed
her to see the changes the program has undergone. Finishing
her fourth season of varsity play, Kane describes the program
as “a lot more serious.” She ascribes their recent success
to the myriad of young players that dominate the Thunder
bench. “We had some young talent. They’re athletic. They’re
doing a lot of off-season work.” Referring to underclassmen
such as Christine LaFrance, who led the Thunder in scoring
for the second straight year, Kane believes the future of
Women’s Basketball at the Out-of-Door Academy looks
bright. As the Thunder look forwards to the 2007-2008
season, where they hope to improve on this year’s success,
they will rely on LaFrance and others to replace the loss of
seniors Kane and Marchese.
Rather than single-out a few key players, Coach Williams
credits the bright future of the Lady Thunder basketball team
to the work-ethic of his players. “I have never had a team
work as hard as ODA. Never,” said Williams. In a coaching
career that spans over ten years, Williams’ comment comes
as high praise.
New Leader, New Start
for Men’s Basketball
Jason Peters embraces his role as head coach.
Returning their entire roster for the 2007-2008 season, the
Out-of-Door Academy Men’s Basketball team looks forward
to the leadership of newly appointed head coach Jason
Peters. Peters comes to Out-of-Door from the Lausanne
School in Memphis, TN, where he compiled a 162-84 record
in nine seasons of coaching. Along with his experience,
she had a lot to learn.” In addition to leading the Thunder
defense, Moreo was the lone senior player on the team, and
joined sophomores Meg Hughes, Alyssa Goldman-Burr and
Krystal Young as team Quad-Captains.
With only two junior players on the team, the Thunder roster
looks to be consistent for several years to come. Over 50%
of the team is composed of eight and ninth graders, who
make up for their inexperience with their energy. “They have
excellent future seasons ahead of them,” said Schopfer, who
also teaches Biology at Out-of-Door. “All grade levels are
equally strong.”
Peters brings a renewed sense of strength to the youthful
Thunder basketball squad.
With a 5-14 record during the 2006-2007 season, the
Thunder fell out of district contention in the first round of
competition. Despite this setback, Peter’s team began fall
pre-season practices with their minds set on the future of the
program. “I am optimistic that this year’s team can compete
in the district,” Peters said, adding that he wants to see his
team improve over the course of the entire season.
Team play and work ethic will be key contributors to the
future success of men’s basketball at ODA. “The players
work hard,” Peters said, “they are very coachable and they
seem to enjoy each other’s company. To me, these are the
three big things for this team because none of them are
superstars.” Given Peters’ impressive history with the sport,
Thunder basketball looks to be a competitor this season.
While youth bodes well for the future of Thunder Soccer,
it seemed to detract from the team’s collusiveness for the
present season. “They’re going to have to come together
as a team,” said Schopfer. “They’re new, they haven’t ever
played together before. The individual talent is incredible,
and if they can pool their talents together as a team, this
next season will really set the ground work for them, and
then the year or two after that should really be incredible.”
Captain Krystal Young concurred. “Our team was young and
inexperienced, but considering our youth we did well.”
As District Runner-Up, the Lady Thunder have set themselves
up for a stunning 2007-2008 season. Overcoming their
youth and a struggling defense to face perennial champions
Sarasota Christian in the final round of District play, the
Despite Difficulties, Girls Soccer
Continues to Grow
Young team pushes forward through obstacles.
In a season fraught with obstacles, The Out-of-Door
Academy Varsity Women’s Soccer team held their own
against tough District competitors, setting themselves up
for a successful future. Finishing the 2006-2007 season with
a final record of 4-6-1 against District competition, the
Lady Thunder advanced to the District Semi-Final match,
where they faced number-one ranked Sarasota Christian.
Though a 5-3 loss knocked them out of contention for the
Regional Playoffs, the match marked a turning point for
Out-of-Door Soccer.
Beginning their season without a goalie, the Thunder turned
to rookie senior Martha Moreo to fill the goal position. Moreo’s
lack of experience didn’t faze Coach Rebecca Schopfer. “She’s
never played soccer before,” said Schopfer. “Nobody else
wanted to fill the goalie position, so she jumped right in it
and was awesome. Being a first time goalie and soccer player,
Thunder finished their season on a high note. “They way
we ended the season was great for the girls,” said Schopfer.
With the momentum now rolling, the future of Women’s
Soccer at The Out-of-Door Academy is both exciting
and promising.
15
STUDENT NEWS
Women’s Tennis on a Roll
Ramos, Hughes undefeated as Thunder strike hard.
It what may be the most successful season in the history of
the Out-of-Door Academy’s women’s tennis team, the Lady
Thunder finished the 2007 season undefeated in district
competition, with every member of the team compiling a
winning singles record. Led by captains Erica Ramos and
Lisa Gelbman, both juniors, the Thunder placed third in the
District tournament behind St. Stephen’s Episcopal School
and Bradenton Preparatory Academy.
Entering the 2007 tennis season, Coach Noel Dougherty was
less than optimistic. “I thought we would have a hard time
improving on last year’s performance,” said Dougherty, who
also teaches English at the Out-of-Door Academy. As the
season progressed, however, Dougherty changed her pointof-view, soon referring to the season as “stellar.” In 2006 the
Thunder were 3-14, placing fourth in District competition. With
a total record of 10-2, the 2007 season marked Out-of-Door’s
stunning arrival on the Florida high school tennis scene.
Entering the district tournament, the Lady Thunder knew
they had a challenge before them. Facing district schools
that draw athletes from the International Management
Group’s Nick Bollettieri Tennis Academy in Bradenton, FL,
Dougherty’s team placed third, surprising themselves and
spectators alike. “ODA was the only school to break the
Bradenton Prep- St. Stephen’s monopoly on the finals,” said
Dougherty, who observed that the finals were “comparable
to collegiate matches in quality.”
In a word familiar to Out-of-Door athletics in 2007, “youth”
seems to be the key operative for women’s tennis. Guided
by freshman Michelle Ramos and sophomore Meg Hughes,
both of whom were undefeated in 2007, the Lady Thunder
16
had but one senior on their roster. Coach Dougherty looks
forward to leading her team to success again in 2008. “It
is an absolute pleasure to work with these young women,”
said Dougherty, “they make you proud at every turn. Their
behavior, their composure—there was never an instant
where I wasn’t absolutely stupefied at how they handled
themselves—that sportsmanship that people often overlook.”
Given their past success, and their outstanding sense of team
and sport, women’s tennis looks to be the guiding light for
ODA Athletics in 2008.
Track & Field Blazes Trail for Success
Rogers, Ragone lead the Thunder pack.
While most high school track teams spend their spring
afternoons on rubber or asphalt ovals, practicing technique
and timing, the Out-of-Door Academy runners spend their
afternoons on the grass and roads that encompass the
school, getting in what training they can with a limited
amount of space. Despite this obstacle, the Thunder track
team has seen remarkable improvement with its 2006-2007
season, sending twelve athletes to compete at the regional
level, where one athlete moved on to state competition.
When head coach Joe Runge took over leadership of the
ODA track team in 2004, he had but five runners competing
for him. In three years time, Runge has slowly built those
numbers, and had forty athletes competing for him this
season. Rather than bask in that success, however, Runge
is not satisfied. “Ultimately, to build a good independent
school team, we need 50-55 kids—that’s the plateau,” Runge
said, adding, “We’re almost there in terms of volume.” While
in its early years the Thunder track team could hardly fill a
relay team, this season they had runners competing in almost
every event that track & field offers.
An increase in numbers also signals a demand for an increase
in leadership from older team members. Turning to CoCaptains Kyle Pack and Heather Steele, the Thunder coaches
were thrilled to watch their youngest team members follow
the example of such strong leaders. “Kyle stepped into the
role as leader,” said Assistant Coach Alicia Anderson, “The
younger kids looked up to him a lot. He led by example.”
Also leading the Thunder were underclassmen Brian
Ragone and Alana Rogers, who both earned the title of
Most Valuable Player by season’s end. Competing in the
distance events, Ragone turned in outstanding results in the
2-mile event, running close to an 11-minute race. Given that
he’s only a seventh grader, coaches Runge and Anderson
are excited to watch him grow. “The sky’s the limit with
Brian,” said Runge, adding that Ragone “has never run
competitively.” Competing in the sprint events, freshman
Alana Rogers is already used to the spotlight. As 2006
District Champion in the 100 and 200 meter events, Rogers
had a lot to live up to entering the 2007 season. Never
daunted, Rogers remained consistent, earning the title of
District Champion for the second year in a row.
Moving forward, coaches Runge and Anderson look to their
infrastructure for the future success of their team. With their
main goals focused around building a track in the coming
years, they believe the improvement in facilities will better
enable their athletes to train. “When we’re fully equipped
we can consolidate their training,” Runge said. “Right now
we’re on the side of the school, we’re on the roads, we’re
on the football field, we’re on the softball field, we’re setting
up hurdles in between, we’re dodging softballs while we’re
stretching, so what it’s going to do is consolidate all the
training, so we won’t lose any training time.” Given his already
impressive results, it is exciting to think of what Runge and his
team might accomplish with the facilities they desire.
Men’s Tennis Finds Success
Despite Fierce Competition
Bangoura leads charge against national-caliber teams.
Facing perhaps some of the toughest high-school
competitors in the nation, the youthful Out-of-Door
Academy’s men’s tennis team finished the 2007 season 9-4,
placing fourth in District competition. Led by sophomore
standout Sekou Bangoura, Jr., the Thunder entered the
2007 season without the seniority that many teams rely
on for leadership. “My oldest player on the team was a
sophomore,” said Thunder coach Shelley Stone, who also
teaches math at ODA, “But we had a great season.”
Opting not to elect team captains, the Thunder turned to
Bangoura for leadership. Ranked amongst the top high
school players in the country, Bangoura was a natural choice,
often assisting his teammates in developing their game.
Stone’s team made it clear, however, that they held no
expectations for Bangoura. “They pulled me aside at the
beginning of the season,” said Bangoura, “They said they’re
there to back me up, but I shouldn’t feel as though I have
to carry the team.” As the team approached the District
tournament, this mindset proved valuable.
For the second year in a row, Bangoura chose not to
compete in the District tournament so that he could travel
to Palm Springs, California to compete in the Easter Bowl
Tennis Tournament, the premier showcase for American
junior tennis. Though Bangoura would have been invaluable
to the Thunder’s district team, possibly securing an
individual District championship, Coach Stone supported
his decision to compete in the Easter Bowl. “It’s something
he can’t miss,” Stone said, “It’s important for his career.”
Bangoura seconded Stone’s opinion. “If you do well there,”
Bangoura said, “It sets you up for the rest of the season in
terms of rankings.”
Without Bangoura, the Thunder entered the District
tournament facing a blind draw seed against number-one
ranked Bradenton Preparatory Academy. One of several
District schools that draw athletes from the International
Management Group’s Nick Bollettieri Tennis Academy in
Bradenton, FL, Bradenton Prep would eventually secure the
District Championship and advance to Regional competition.
At the conclusion of the district tournament, The Out-of-Door
Academy Thunder were in fourth place behind Bradenton
Preparatory Academy, St. Stephens Episcopal School, and
Bradenton Christian School, all of which draw athletes from
the IMG academies.
Despite the high level of competition within the District,
Coach Stone is optimistic about her team’s future. “If
the boys keep progressing as they do, we could give the
Bradenton Prep and St. Stephen’s a run by the time these
guys are seniors,” said Stone. Besides crediting her team’s
youth for their future success, Stone also credits her team’s
love for the game. “They talk tennis constantly,” Stone said,
“They’re excited about the game.” The Thunder’s excitement
about tennis is easily translated into excitement about the
future of men’s tennis at the Out-of-Door Academy.
17
STUDENT NEWS
Baseball Barrels towards
District Championship
Mercier leads Thunder, re-writes record book
Led by senior captain and four-year veteran Kevin Mercier,
the Out-of-Door Thunder baseball team set lofty goals for
themselves this season, setting their sights on a district
championship. Though falling just shy of a birth in the district
championship game, the Thunder completed their most
successful season to date, setting a new school record for
most wins in a season.
Despite the loss of Mercier, Verrill retains eight starters and all
of his pitchers. With many of his returning players attending a
summer baseball camp in Maine to improve their play, Verrill
is optimistic about the 2008 season. With the team’s recordbreaking 2007 season and their lofty goals, 2008 looks to be
a bright year for Thunder baseball.
Despite Youth, Thunder Softball
Commits to Improvement
Captains Kane-Hartnett and Weiner
lead underclassmen
Going into the 2007 season, head coach Mike Verrill believed
his team was capable of advancing to Regional playoff
competition. When knocked out of district contention in
a thrilling 12th inning loss to Sarasota Christian, Verrill
remained positive. “My belief in our goals never changed,”
said Verrill, “and the team worked very hard to achieve our
goals.” Though unsuccessful in their pursuit of a District title,
the Thunder finished their season 15-10, their largest number
of wins in a season to date. This record sends “a strong
statement to the District that the Out-of-Door Academy has
turned the corner and will be a team to contend with in the
future,” Verrill said.
The future of Thunder baseball is going to rely on
underclassmen to replace the loss of Kevin Mercier, who
will matriculate to Stetson University this fall. In his four-year
career on the Thunder baseball team, Mercier re-wrote the
record books, setting new marks in five offensive categories,
including a .786 hitting percentage and a .553 on-base
percentage. In the district tournament Mercier was 8-10
at-bat, hitting a remarkable three triples against Sarasota
Christian in the final game of the season.
Their roster dominated by underclassmen, the Lady Thunder
Softball team went 2-12 during the 2006-2007 season, a
record that doesn’t accurately reflect the great strides of
improvement they were able to make in just one year. With
their team batting average and on-base percentage nearly
100 points over last year’s mark, they seem well on their way
to a successful season in 2008.
Co-Captains Liza Kane-Hartnett and Rachel Weiner
demonstrated their leadership on the field, leading the
Thunder in all offensive categories. Head Coach Robert
Peterka also credited their mental and emotional leadership
skills to their role as effective captains. With most of his
roster returning in 2008, Peterka looks forward to continued
improvement next season.
Men’s Soccer Embraces New Challenges
Higher level of competition doesn’t faze thunder
Moved up a division after the 2006 season, the Out-of-Door
Academy’s men’s soccer squad faced more competitive
teams in 2007, demanding them to increase their level of
play. Responding positively to this challenge, the Thunder
went 8-7-4 this season, with four additional games canceled
due to inadequate lighting.
18
Head coach Dave Hawkes was positive about his team’s results.
“It was a good season for us,” Hawkes said, “We’re playing
more skillful teams.” Amongst these teams was St. Stephen’s
Prep, whom the Thunder faced in a district semi-final match.
With many of their players coming from the International
Management Group’s Soccer Academy in Bradenton, St.
Stephen’s defeated the Thunder 7-0 and went on to place
second in the region.
While Hawkes was “very impressed” with this season’s squad,
his team is never satisfied. With their sights set on competing
for a district championship in 2008, they will look to their
underclassmen players for leadership. Given the depth and talent
of the 2007 team, their goals seem very much within reach.
JV Teams Summary
JV Men’s and Women’s Soccer boasted
high participation numbers this season, with
both upper and middle-schoolers filling
out their teams. With an occasional player
stepping up to play at the Varsity level for
certain matches, the Thunder JV squads
are excited to continue what has become a
strong soccer tradition at the Out-of-Door
Academy. JV Baseball will likewise make a
strong impact on the Varsity team next year,
having improved greatly over the course of
the season. Coach Terry Creek was proud
of his team’s determination and drive to
improve, two traits that they maintained
throughout the spring season.
19
STUDENT NEWS
All School Events
Lower school students bouncing at Thunder Fun Day
Thunder Fun Day
Cayman Bone ’10 and Veronica Rosser ’10
The Out-of-Door Academy Parent Association hosted
its inaugural Thunder Fun Day at the Lakewood Ranch
campus on March 17th. Lower School and Upper
School students, joined by families from the community,
enjoyed an afternoon of fun and games. Favorites
included the water balloon sling shot, the inflatable
“bounce house,” and the cake walk, where winning a
round was awarded with a whole cake to take home. In
the craft area, students were also able to do such things
as decorate frames and make spin art.
The Middle School and Upper School students also
hosted various booths as class fundraisers. Some of the classes sold breakfast treats, popcorn, ice cream and “Thunderade,”
while others offered face painting and items from the Sixties to support their fundraising efforts.
The Lakewood Ranch campus was buzzing with excitement
on March 30th as PK-12 students participated in “Spirit Day,”
our all-school field day. This year, the “blue” team took away
top honors, as a blue-shirted mob swarmed the final obstacle
course to celebrate their victory. Like always, it was a great
event filled with camaraderie and a bit of friendly competition.
20
Tristin Ukmar ’15 and Jeremy Luna ’15
FROM ADVANCEMENT
Annual Fund Update
The Out-of-Door Academy Annual Fund concluded with another very strong year of giving. The Out-of-Door family gave
$392,000 towards this past year’s campaign. Our Trustees, Faculty and Staff gave 100% and parent participation was at 71%.
Thank you all for another year of outstanding philanthropy!
Thunder Golf Tournament
The Thunder Golf Tournament took place on May 24th.
With 20 foursomes competing, it proved to be an
enjoyable day of golf and good company. All golfers
went home with an Adidas Clima Cool golf shirt, a
sleeve of Titleist Pro-V1 golf balls, and coffee tumbler
all of which featured the new Thunder Athletics logo.
The big winners on the
day were: 1st place (Gross)
- 57 - (pictured left - L to
R) - Jim Onufrak, Mike
Gough, Leo Tedesco
and Roger Osterling;
2nd place (Gross) - 58 Mike Montgomery, Craig
Robson, Mark McCabe
and Chris Robb; 3rd place (Gross) - 58 - Ernie Garcia,
Marc Bruer, Andrew
Grady and Paul
Parrish. 1st place
(Net) - 54 - Chris
Hill, Rick Dupee,
Mike Wolf, Kevin
Gallagher. Both 1st
place teams will be
listed as winners on
Mickey Davis, Regina Putrino,
the coveted Petrik
Susan McCann and Patty Schremmer
Cup. Other winners
included: Longest
Drive - Roger Osterling, Longest Putt - Mickey Davis,
and Closest to the Pin - Rick Shaw.
A special thank you is extended to our sponsors:
Lunch sponsor – First Watch (Ken and Jenny Pendery)
and Cocktail reception sponsor – Southwest Florida
Orthopadeic Centers (Dr. Christopher Sforzo and Terri
Vitale) and our hole-in-one sponsor – Gerd and Feli
Petrik. Thank you to our committee: Bob Falahee, Chris
Hill, and Keith Reeves (Co-Chairs), Mike and Sandy
Albano, Mark Hughes, Brett Timmons and Tim Brewer
for the hard work to make this a very successful event.
Arts Guild
Since its inaugural year in 2003 the Arts Guild has made
a significant impact on our visual art, music and drama
programs, thanks to the generous donations of our members.
We have been able to enhance the current programs
with: a drum set, keyboard, digital photography software
and licensing, art display board and frames, and sound
equipment. This past year it also began a series of visits
by local guest artists through the Sarasota County Arts
Council. A storyteller visited the Kindergarten classes, a
musician entertained the first grade classes, and an artist
taught Chinese Brush painting to the Upper School art
students. For more information, please visit www.oda.edu.
Thunder Athletic Club
The Out-of-Door Academy’s athletic programs have built an
impressive record of success in a very short time. Since the
founding of the Out-of-Door Academy Upper-School in 1996,
our high school teams have reached district and regional
finals in almost every sport. The Out-of-Door Academy’s
varsity athletes have placed at the state level in swimming,
golf, tennis and cross country. Almost 100% of Upper-School
students participate in interscholastic athletic competition.
A solid foundation for The Out-of-Door Academy Athletic
Department has been laid by a small but passionate group
of coaches, teachers, parents, and staff. As our school
continues to grow, we see a need for a larger community
to provide support for that growth—the type of support an
active and engaged Thunder Athletic Club can provide.
As a college preparatory school, The Out-of-Door
Academy’s mission is to build character through a balanced
program of academics, athletics and the arts. The mission
of the Thunder Athletic Club is to provide financial,
volunteer and fan support to help ensure a quality sports
experience for all students who wish to participate in
interscholastic athletics. Please join us in our effort to keep
The Out-of-Door Academy amongst the best athletic
programs in the state of Florida by becoming a member
of the Thunder Athletic Club today. For more information,
please visit www.oda.edu and click on “Athletics.”
21
PARENT EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
Announcing Her Majesty’s Secret Service:
007 Committee Kick-off Party
Her Majesty, this year’s Extravaganza Chair Jayne Gelbman,
was elated to unveil the 2007 Extravaganza committee on
April 21st. The weather was perfect and the setting was
amazing at Villa Solstice. Accolades go to Kim and Charles
Githler and Jayne and Ron Gelbman for hosting a wonderful
kick-off party for the Extravaganza 2007 committee. Past
Extravaganza chairpersons and committee members were
acknowledged and thanked and Chuck and Phyllis Savidge
were introduced as inaugural Honorary Chairs in recognition
of their tremendous support for Out-of-Door.
Agents Dressed
to Kill
Jayne Gelbman, Extravaganza
Chair & Ron Gelbman, Board
of Trustees Chair
2007 Extravaganza Committee
Chair
N. Jayne Gelbman
Art/Design
Janice Bowers
Online Auction
Nancy Freund
Vice-Chair
Kathryn Kelley
Advertising
Tonya Gowan
Public Relations
Ginny Hitchcock
Honorary Chairs
Phyllis & Chuck Savidge
Decorations
Lisa Dailey
Reservations
Tonie Branica
Live Auction
Rhonda Deems
Michael von Waldner
Evening Volunteers
Mary Ann Mullen
Tuition Drawing
Mickey Davis
Event Coordinator
Lin Runge
Advancement Office
Dennis Chapman
Amanda Stutzman
Julie Fineberg
Shannon Neill ’03
Silent Auction
Nita Ettinger
Sponsorships
Dennis Chapman
Dir. of Advancement
Administration
Tonya Maxey
Bonnie McKee
Heartstrings
Jennifer Siciliano
Kathryn Kelley, Extravaganza
Vice Chair & Nita Ettinger,
Silent Auction Chair
Kid Pictures
Marie Dowdy
Cindy von Waldner & Mike von Waldner,
Live Auction Co-Chair
Nick Branica & Tonie Branica,
Reservations Chair & Former
Extravaganza Chair
Kick-off Party
Kim & Charles Githler
Parent Association Luncheon
Many parents attended the annual
Parent Association Luncheon in May.
The theme of the luncheon, chaired by
Noreen Polidoro and Joan Golub, was
“Back-to-the-Future”. Attendees were
delightfully entertained and educated
by three alums from Out-of-Door. They
were Katie Dobosz ‘06, Katie Hayes ‘70,
and Ann Chamberlain ‘35. The alums
spoke of some of their experiences while
they attended Out-of-Door.
Parent Association
2007-2008
Executive Board
President
Kitty Cranor
President-Elect
Diane Sulimirski
Upper School Vice President
Diana Harvey
Katie Hayes ‘70, Katie Dobosz ‘06, Ann Chamberlain ‘35,
and David Mahler
Wiseman Speaks on Children’s Social Issues
The Out-of-Door Academy Parent Association was proud to be a
co-sponsor of the event that brought Rosalind Wiseman to the Sarasota
area. Rosalind Wiseman, an internationally recognized author and
educator, spoke to the group about social conflicts and challenges that
face all of our children.
22
Middle School Vice President
Kim Chait
Lower School Vice President
Noreen Polidoro
Secretary
Nita Ettinger
Treasurer
Susan Hurd
Renee Huntley
Director of Academic Services
1. What made you decide to pursue
a career in education?
When I was a very young child growing up in New Jersey,
I used to play school with my neighborhood friends. I was
always the bossy teacher, waving a ruler, writing on the
chalkboard and reading books. We used to write plays,
create the costumes and props and perform for whomever
would come. It is no surprise that I wound end up being a
Reading Specialist. Reading and writing has been a passion
my whole life. My undergraduate degree in English Literature
from Montclair State University in New Jersey led me to
further my studies in linguistics and the development of
literacy at The College of New Rochelle, in New Rochelle,
New York where I earned a Masters of Science Degree in
Reading. Fate pushed me to settle in New York where I
married, had two sons and taught reading and writing to
children of diverse learning styles in a premier school district
in the state of New York. I had 22 fabulous years of working
as a reading teacher and as a member of a Child Study Team
which also consisted of a psychologist, speech therapist,
classroom teacher, and special education teacher.
The best experiences and opportunities in life often evolve
from situations with which we place ourselves. I had established
a tutoring business when we settled in Osprey in 2002. I was
expanding my networking, and I happened to visit Out-ofDoor one day…a lucky day. I spent the next year balancing my
business and working on the gorgeous Siesta Key campus. The
kids were dynamite, and the teachers were incredibly dedicated
and caring. The position of Academic Services Director was
created a year later, and I was fortunate enough to be hired.
I was officially a member of a new educational community.
I could barely contain my excitement as my role as an educator
was transformed into a child advocate.
GETTING TO KNOW YOU
2. What role does Academic Services
play at Out-of-Door?
Academic Services is a program that functions as a safety net
for any Out-of-Door student who may require extra support
or skill strengthening in order to achieve academic success.
As the Director of Academic Services, I serve as a liaison
and child advocate. I work closely with classroom teachers,
parents and other professionals to translate students’
particular learning needs into a practical educational plan
that can be implemented in the classroom. If a student is
struggling, either a teacher or a parent can approach me
for help, and I will guide them through the appropriate
process. The Siesta Key campus tutoring center consists
of certified teachers, a Speech and Language Pathologist,
and an Occupational Therapist. The work that takes place
in the tutoring center is closely monitored and reviewed
by the Director of Academic Services. Progress reports are
provided to the parents and the teachers on a regular basis.
Sometimes a teacher or a parent will ask me to conduct
individual or whole class reading evaluations to determine
baselines or derive suggestions to enrich instruction.
Occasionally, teachers or parents ask me to observe children
in the classroom and examine their work. Through careful
examination, it is my responsibility to gather information,
interpret it, and communicate it to parents and teachers
working with the student. If a more substantial evaluation is
deemed necessary, there is a network of local professionals
whose names are available from my office. These
professionals work closely with me, and they are familiar with
the Out-of-Door community and its standards. Teachers at
Out-of-Door are unique because they extend themselves as
professionals to accommodate the diverse learning styles of
their students. They regard Academic Services as another
resource in their “toolbox.”
3. What is the one thing that you would like people
to know about the work that you do here?
My work at Out-of-Door is both gratifying and stimulating.
A typical day could consist of simple tasks like downloading
software for tutors and helping them arrange their schedules
and collect materials. They could also include meetings with
the lower head, teachers, phone conversations, e-mails, or
meetings with parents or other professionals in the field,
program planning and training of new tutors, testing children,
meeting new children, or planning professional development
workshops for the faculty. The Out-of-Door administration
fosters professional growth, and it has encouraged me to
reach out into the community and develop relationships with
other educational specialists who are happy to visit the Out-ofDoor Academy and offer their expertise so we may enrich our
(cont.)
23
GETTING TO KNOW YOU
(cont. from page 21)
faculty and thereby our students’ daily learning experiences.
Although I encourage parents to call if they would like an
appointment, parental concerns regarding their children do
not conveniently conform to calendar schedules. Please know
that my door is always open, and I am a concerned advocate
for your youngster.
If I am having an especially wonderful day, one of the children
might come in and give me a big hug and ask me how I am.
You can’t top that…children bring love and joy!
What is the ABC (Academic Booster Club) group?
A group of Out-of-Door Academy parents, faculty
and administrators whose mission is to support our
teachers and students by funding programs to enrich
academic development.
What are the ABC group’s accomplishments to date?
•
ABC helped outfit the marine science classroom
with touch tanks and has sponsored field trips to
Mote Marine. ABC provided additional classroom
materials for Lisa Cheney’s Marine Science program.
•
ABC sponsored the Dr. Howard Gardner speaker
event, which drew educators from across the state
and southeast to hear about Multiple Intelligence
theory. The entire PK-12 faculty attended a private
dinner and lecture with Dr. Gardner followed by a
Q and A session.
•
ABC has assisted the school in purchasing new
textbooks in a variety of disciplines including social
studies, mathematics and reading.
•
ABC currently covers the entire cost of Renee
Huntley’s salary as the Academic Services provider
and has purchased some teaching resources for
this department.
•
ABC provided resources for Sandy Elliot’s
technology classes relating to Lego Robotics.
•
ABC funds summer educational development for
teachers through grants.
•
24
Butterfly Garden – The courtyard, including the
fountain and the addition of tiles, was restored
and dedicated to Carolyn Johnston, a long time
art teacher at Out-of-Door Academy. ABC funds,
specifically through a gift from Pam Morris were
used for this project.
Tributes
Phyllis Keyser
Rainbows filled the
Lower Campus on
May 30th in honor
of Mrs. Keyser,
who is retiring
this summer after
15 years of service at the Out-of-Door Academy. In
recognition of Mrs. Keyser’s contribution to the school,
students dressed in rainbow colors and expressed their
appreciation with song and written tribute. The Out-ofDoor Academy wishes Mrs. Keyser many happy years as
she enters into retirement.
Robert True
Serving as Middle School
Dean, Drama Department
Head, English teacher
and director of countless
Out-of-Door drama
productions, Robert True is known as a motivator,
mentor, and positive inspiration. Retiring this summer
after devoting a decade to The Out-of-Door Academy,
Bob will be missed by all.
Faculty and Staff Pay Tribute
to Phyllis Keyser and Bob True
The entire Out-of-Door faculty and staff paid tribute
Phyllis and Bob at an extraordinary luncheon held at
Roy’s Hawaiian Fusion. Head of School, David Mahler,
honored each with an engraved rocking chair for them to
enjoy during their retirement. Phyllis’ husband Steve and
Bob’s wife Sandy also surprised them at celebration. The
Out-of-Door Academy sincerely wishes Phyllis and Bob
well in their new endeavors.
Kudos
S
Sara De Soto Chapter Essay Winners
Congratulations are extended to Peter Runge ‘14 and
Melanie Mason ’13, winners of the Sara De Soto Chapter
of the National Society for Daughter’s
of the American Revolution American
History Essay Contest. Peter and
Melanie shared their essays at a special
awards ceremony on April 2. They
received winners’ certificates signed
by Congressman Vern Buchanan, an
American flag that has been flown over
the United States Capitol building, and a history medal.
The Out-of-Door Academy is proud of Peter and Melanie’s
accomplishment! (Pictured left to right: Martha Gulacsy, DAR
history essay chairman, Ruth Ritenour, Melanie Mason ‘13
and Peter Runge ‘14)
Red Rose in the Bush is an Award Winning Play
Congratulations are in order for Megan Jenkins ‘14 (pictured
right) for her original play, Red Rose in the Bush, which
was an award winner at the Young Playwrights Festival on
May 19th. Megan was recognized for
her distinguished achievement and
will be honored at a luncheon for
the playwrights and their educators.
Congratulations are also extended to
fifth graders Lauren Maxey and Allison
Schnathmann, who received special
merit for their play, The Flea’s Allergies.
Well done!
KUDOS
Boston Marathon in just over four hours. Mr. Runge supported his wife by being the
official family photographer for the event!
(right) Jane Runge crossing the finish line
Who’s Who
Martha Gulácsy, Lower School English Department Head,
was recently appointed as a biographical candidate
into the Cambridge Who’s Who Among Executives and
Professional Women. Inclusion is limited to women who
have demonstrated leadership and achievement in their
profession. Congratulations!
Nationally Acclaimed
Author Visits Lower School
The Out-of-Door Academy hosted nationally
acclaimed author and historyteller Jennifer
Armstrong on February 19th. Armstrong has
authored more than 100 books, specializing in
History and historical fiction. During her visit, she
spoke to students about writing, shared original
stories, and discussed the way books are authored
and illustrated.
Freshman Work Displayed on Bayfront
As part of a freshman English assignment, several students
submitted original quotations on the topic “Embracing
Our Differences” for the annual Embracing Our Differences
Art and Quotation display that takes place on the Sarasota
Bayfront each spring. Quotations from Lauren Dobbins and
Steven Freund were selected from hundreds of entries.
Congratulations!
Boston Marathon
Jane Runge, an Out-of-Door Academy parent and PreKindergarten assistant, joined 20,000 other competitors in
running the 111th Boston Marathon on April 16th. Despite the
unseasonably cold, windy and rainy conditions, Mrs. Runge
and her sister from Ohio were delighted to finish their first
2nd grade students Tristan Bleau, Bam Han and Adam Langbert
25
Head of School, David V. Mahler,
has been Elected to FCIS Board
D
David V. Mahler has been elected to the Board of Directors
of the Florida Council of Independent Schools (FCIS).
Mahler will serve a twoyear term, renewable for
another two years without
re-election. He then will be
eligible for appointment as an
officer, according to Council
Executive Director Skardon C.
Bliss. “We are very happy to
have him [on the Board],” said
Bliss. “We will use his talents
in multiple ways.”
Interestingly, Mahler was
nominated to serve on the
Board by a member of the team that evaluated the Outof-Door Academy last year. Charley Zimmer, retired head
master of Episcopal High School of Jacksonville, said his
team’s members got to “see David in action” and were
impressed by what they saw. “To my way of thinking, he’s
the consummate school man” said Zimmer, who now
works in Episcopal’s advancement office. “He loves kids,
he’s sensitive to their needs and he’s full of integrity.”
While visiting the school, Zimmer said, his team had the
opportunity to “see [Mahler’s] issues and how he was
addressing them.”
Mahler said he is honored to be a representative of FCIS,
“the ultimate advocacy group for independent schools
in Florida,” and he considers the experience “a great
opportunity to work at the highest level to promote all the
good things going on in independent schools across the
state.” “It’s also a chance for me to develop personally
through the exchange of ideas with highly experienced
and talented school leaders.” Working with the Board,
he said, “also will give me the opportunity to learn new
ways of thinking about school issues and problems that
may directly translate into improving the program at the
Out-of-Door Academy.”
Alumni Notes
Pre-1999
Henry Tyson ’45 is living in Middleton, WI, and is retired
from General Motors.
Hugh Nevill ’56 lives in Warrenton, VA, and started a
saddlery with his wife 35 years ago that has ‘morphed into
clothing for men and women, gifts, etc.’
Katie Erhart Hayes ’69 lives in Sarasota and works
with her husband, Peter, at their business, Tandem
Construction. Her daughter graduated from Out-of-Door
‘01, her son, Kent, graduated from Out-of-Door in ‘03,
and her daughter, Kelsey is in the Class of 2009.
Tak Konstantinou ’70 now lives in Sarasota after having
lived in New York City for many years in the 1980’s, working
in the entertainment field with different dance, theater
and television productions. He has worked as a freelance
photographer and has published many photographs. He
has also done underwater research all over the world with
his mother, Dr. Eugenie Clark, “Shark Lady” and founding
director of Mote Marine Lab in Sarasota. He currently works
for Michael Saunders.
Alanson Brown ’71 lives in Sarasota and works
as a realtor for Michael Saunders and Company on
Siesta Key.
Susan McConnell Norrell ’73 now lives in
Hutchinson, KS.
John Brennan ’80 lives in Barneveld, NY.
Liz Buzzelli Logan ’82 lives in Sarasota. Her son, Max, is
in the Class of ’11, and her son, Sam, is in the Class of ’10.
John Harper ’85 now lives outside San Francisco and is
the corporate historian for Chevron Corporation.
Rhett Erb ’91 lives in Sarasota and works for Sketches.
Richard Helms ’92 lives in Sarasota and works for
Helmsmen Marine as a Naval Architect. His son was born
on February 2, 2007.
Aaron Riley ’95 lives in Sarasota and works as a
Financial Representative for Northwestern Mutual
Financial Network.
Ceiliah Epner ’96 is living in Sarasota and working for
Hettema, Saba, Walch as a Commercial Appraiser.
While he’s always looking for ways “for the Out-of-Door
Academy to get even better,” Mahler said there’s been
another interesting side effect of his work for the Board.
Whitney Erb ’97 lives in Barbourville, Kentucky.
“It puts things in perspective,” he said, “and allows me
to see just how strong our School is. It gives me a better
appreciation of the things we do well—and sometimes
take for granted.” “We have a lot to be thankful for at
Out-of-Door,” he concluded.
Ben Sprout works in the video games industry on the
game Metroid Prime 3: Corruption for the Nintendo Wii
system, due for release 2007.
26
Class of 1999
Carrie Smith lives in Gainesville, FL, and is finishing her
studies in Physical Therapy.
Landon Pack now lives in Greenville, SC, after having
lived in Pyoengtek, South Korea as an engineer for
Advanced Automation.
Stephanie Fuhr graduated in April from Florida State University
Cum Laude with a BA in Psychology.
Class of 2000
Patrick Lofstrom lives in Brooklyn, NY, and graduated
from Pratt Institute in May with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in
Computer Graphics.
Vinci Battaglia lives in Washington, DC, and is in her second
year at Gerogetown Law School.
Isis Graham Luce lives in Boulder, CO, and works for the
Boulder Quest Center as a Mighty Dragons Instructor.
John Crouse works as an Assistant Marketing Director for Camp
Rockmont. He travels for work and for life. “I have yet found the
place or the person to settle down in or with and I am enjoying
the journey of life.”
Leslie Merrill graduated from Elon College with a double
English major in Professional Writing and Literature with a minor
in Spanish. She plans to work for a program called Bunac for six
months in London.
Class of 2000—8th grade
Seth Woolf graduated from George Washington University in
Washington, DC, and plans to attend law school in DC next fall.
Alexandra Lonsdale lives in Gainesville and will receive her
BA in Education from University of Florida in December. She
will continue working on her MA in Education and graduate in
December 2008.
Class of 2004
Class of 2001
Peter Dobosz lives in Orlando, FL, and continues, as a junior,
to pursue a Bachelor of Arts degree in Liberal Studies at the
University of Central Florida. He is also a cast member at the
Walt Disney World Resort.
Michelle Alecci lives in Tampa Palms and works for Morgan
Stanley as a Financial Advisor.
Greg Dechow lives in Sarasota and is majoring in illustration at
Ringling School of Art and Design.
Cristin Lavelle lives in San Francisco and works for Accenture as
a Business & Systems Integration Analyst.
Teri Musall lives in Bridgeport, CT, and attends the University
of Bridgeport. She is studying Graphic Design. She continues
to compete in bars and beam as part of the gymnastics team of
University of Bridgeport.
Sibyl McCarley lives in Milwaukee, WI, and recently
graduated from Marquette University with a Masters degree
of Business Administration.
Krystie McMurry lives in Monroe, NC, and works for
Tillman-Wright, PLLC, as a Legal Assistant.
Ashley Palmer lives in Watertown, MA, and works as a
Research Technician at Harvard Medical School/Massachusetts
General Hospital.
Blair Sprout lives in Pompano Beach, FL, and works for
Morgan Stanley as a Fixed Income Analyst.
Ryan Sullivan lives in San Diego, CA, and works for his start up
company, BarJax.
Class of 2002
Natalia Battaglia lives in Washington, DC, and is working at
Corporate Executive Board.
Steve Farkas lives in Maitland, FL, and works at Kim Michael
Cullen, P.A. as a Legal Assistant. He plans to attend law school in
Fall 2007 or January 2008.
Amanda Petruzzi lives in Hamden, CT, and attends Quinnipiac
University. She continues to play Division I women’s tennis for
the ‘Bobcats’.
Class of 2005
Daniel Kane is attending Middlebury College in Vermont
and majoring in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry.
Emily Krouse is attending the Miami University of Ohio.
Patrick McArdle is attending Davidson College in North Carolina.
Erica Morse is attending the University of Vermont.
Class of 2006
Mercedes Brown is attending the University of Wisconsin.
Katie Dobosz is attending the University of Central Florida.
Brian McInnis thoroughly enjoyed his freshman year
at the University of North Florida.
Bennet Hammer is attending Florida Gulf Coast University
seeking his MBA with a concentration in Information Systems. He
hopes to start his own business once he gets his degree.
Scott McMurry finished his freshman year at
Florida State University.
Class of 2003
Scott Woolf finished his freshman year at the University of
Miami. Life is good.
Libby Pendery is attending Hamilton College in New York.
Alexander Cameron is a senior at University of Central Florida.
He will stay one extra year as he is pursuing two majors (French
and Criminal Justice).
27
Spotlight On Recent Alums
Alumni in the News
David Rodriguez
David Rodriguez ’05, was an outstanding
basketball player for the Out-of-Door
Academy as the school’s career leader
in points and rebounds. He was offered
several basketball scholarships at small
colleges upon graduation. Deciding not
to play college basketball, Rodriguez matriculated to
Vanderbilt, where he planned to study economics. During
his freshman year, Rodriguez attended an open tryout for the
basketball team, but found that the team was not interested.
The fall of his sophomore year, Rodriguez attended another
open tryout for the basketball team. Again, the coaches
did not seem interested. However, sometime around
Thanksgiving, Rodriguez’s cell phone rang and it was Dan
Muller, a Vanderbilt assistant basketball coach. “I was shocked
when he said who he was,” Rodriguez said. When asked if he
wanted to practice with the basketball team because of an
injury to another player, Rodriguez didn’t think twice.
Towards the end of December, Rodriguez was told that he
was dressing for a game against Alabama A & M. Late in
that game, Rodriguez was put in the game for two minutes,
during which he never took a shot and committed one
turnover. He never played again during the regular season.
When Vanderbilt entered the NCAA tournament in March,
Rodriguez had another chance to play. In a game against
George Washington, Rodriguez was sent into the game
during the last two minutes. He was fouled and ended up on
the free throw line. First shot….in and out…a miss! Second
shot….SWISH! His first college point came during a NCAA
tournament game as Vanderbilt advanced up the ladder.
Information from Herald Tribune and Tim Brewer
Chris Hayes
Chris Hayes, ’06, has always, since
childhood, been a rabid University of Miami
football fan. While living in Sarasota and
attending The Out-of-Door Academy, he
played basketball, baseball and soccer. His
love was always football, but Out-of-Door
did not have a football team.
Unfortunately, Chris graduated one year too early to play on
ODA’s newly established football team. He matriculated to
the University of Miami, and when he heard about walk-on
tryouts for the Miami football team, he decided to ‘go for it’
even though he had never played football.
28
Five minutes after tryouts ended, Chris learned that he
had earned one of five spots on the team. “I wanted to
dance and scream, but told myself that wasn’t a good idea,
so I stayed calm.”
Chris didn’t dress for any games, but was on the sidelines
for home games. He did play on the scout team and was
involved in special drills. Chris finally got the chance to put
on a uniform and battle the scholarship players in one of
this year’s spring games. “I was in for eight plays. I didn’t
have any passes thrown to me, but it was fun to be out
there,” he said. Chris said he hopes to suit up for games by
his junior year. He is majoring in motion pictures and sports
management. Chris knows he could be living the plot for his
first movie.
Excerpts from Sarasota Herald Tribune
Niece of Out-of-Door
Co-Founder
Visits Campus
Mrs. Phyllis Gavin
Robinson, niece of
Out-of-Door co-founder
Catherine Gavin, visited
the Siesta Key campus
over the summer and
renewed a long-standing
friendship with Richard
Schaefer ’08 and Clarence
Dodge ’17, sons of Avery Brunson-Dodge ’69.
Alumni Portal on School Website
Look for an announcement soon about the launch of our new
Alumni Portal on our website. The portal will make it easy for
alumni to keep in touch with both the Out-of-Door Academy
and each other. Each alumnus will be able to create their own
alumni directory page that will be accessible to other alumni
only, with provision for easy self-updating of contact info or
other personal information. Long-term, recent and future
alumni will be able to post personal news or update personal
profiles online. For more information, contact Shanon Neill
’03, Director of Alumni Relations at 941-554-3437.
Class Representatives Needed
We’re currently looking for individuals from each
class to help us keep in touch with their classmates. If
you’re interested in becoming a Class Representative or
would like to find out more information please contact
Shannon Neill ’03, Director of Alumni Relations at sneill@
oda.edu (941) 554-3437.
The Out-of-Door Academy 2007 Calendar of Openings and Closings
Monday, August 6
Fall Athletic Practices Begin Grades 9-12
Monday, August 6 -10
8th Grade Leadership Camp
Monday, August 20Conference Day PK - 9
Tuesday, August 21Student Orientation Grades 7 - 12
Wednesday, August 22
First Day of Classes Grades PK-12
Monday, September 3
Labor Day – School Closed
Monday, October 8
Columbus Day – School Closed
Thursday, October 25
Fall Parent Conferences;
No School for Students
Wednesday, November 21
Thanksgiving Break Begins Monday, November 26
Faculty Professional Day;
No School for Students
Tuesday, November 27Classes Resume
Thursday, December 20
Holiday Break begins at 12:00 p.m.
The Out-of-Door Academy
www.oda.edu
Phone (941) 349-3223
Admissions (941) 554-3400
Pre-K through Grade 6
444 Reid Street, Sarasota, Florida 34242
Grade 7 through Grade 12
5950 Deer Drive, Sarasota, Florida 34240
An Education for a Lifetime
Non-Profit Org.
U.S. Postage
PAID
Permit No. 1422
Manasota, FL