December, 2008

Dear North County Parents and Community,

The holidays are upon us! I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving. We begin our three week Winter Break following our last day of Term 2 on Friday, December 19th. School will resume on Monday, January 12th at 10:30 AM with the start of Term 3. On this Late Start Day, busses will pick up students 90 minutes later than usual. All students will report to Homeroom to pick up their Term 3 class schedules. Students will have brand new classes (except for A/B year long classes) to start 2009.

Some important school news to consider during this festive, yet often hectic, time of year:

- Dance Company and Dance II present their Fall show
December 11, 12 and 13th at 7:00 pm in the Forum. It will be a great show!

- Don’t miss the “Holiday Arts Faire” on Tuesday, December 16th in the Forum. The Visual and Performing Arts Department will showcase their talents beginning at 6:30 PM.

- Term 2 Final Exams will be administered from December 15th through December 19th.

- Term 2 grades are permanent semester grades. Encourage your student to study hard and complete all standards for all their classes.

PLEASE TRY TO ARRANGE FAMILY VACATIONS SO YOUR CHILD IS IN SCHOOL EVERY DAY. GRADES WILL CERTAINLY BE EFFECTED BY MISSED SCHOOL DAYS.

On behalf of all 120 North County Staff members, I wish you all a safe, happy and beautiful holiday season. Bless you all!

Sincerely,

Steven Hirt, Principal
    (831) 633-5221

FORMER NC PRINCIPAL TO RETIRE IN SEPTEMBER

Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources Don Pedroni announced his retirement effective September 30, 2008 after 34 dedicated years of service.

Don began his career in 1974 at Lick High School in San Jose as a Science teacher. He coached a variety of sports and served as the Activities Director there until he accepted the same position at NMCHS in 1986. Don served two years as our school’s Activities Director before leaving to open the, then, new middle school at Moss Landing. Don returned to North County High in 1991 and served as the Assistant Principal until 1998. Don served five years as the Principal at NMCHS until 2003 when he was appointed to his current position.

I have worked closely with Don since 1986. I have always appreciated his warmth, intelligence and integrity. Our school and the North Monterey County Unified School District is a better place for students because of his superior work. While he will be greatly missed, I am happy for Don. He has certainly earned this opportunity to enjoy a wide array of new endeavors.

May 7, 2007
Congratulations Roger O'Sullivan!
Roger O'Sullivan Wins 2007 Ercia Harden Award

Roger O'Sullivan, the NMCHS 2007 nominee, won the Ercia Harden Excellence Award for Teaching on Friday night at Hartnell College. Roger was one of two high school teachers selected from all Salinas Valley High Schools and secondary alternative education programs. Roger and the other Harden winners were featured in Saturday's Salinas Californian.

Roger has taught U.S. Government for the past 25 years at our school. He makes the content come alive with creative ways of mixing the current political situation with the study of American Government institutions. He has made an art of the use of questioning in the classroom. In addition, Roger has served as a mentor for many aspiring educators over the years.  

This 1988 Condor of the Year accepted his award before an audience of 350 with his usual humility and understated gratitude.

ROGER O'SULLIVAN APPOINTED ATHLETIC DIRECTOR AT NORTH COUNTY HIGH
Date: May 3, 2007
Roger O'Sullivan was appointed the new Athletic Director of North Monterey County High School effective June 30, 2007. Roger replaces long time AD Al Ferreira who is retiring from that position after 11 years of distinguished service.

Principal Steve Hirt stated, "Al Ferreira has been a great Athletic Director. I really appreciate his incredible service to the school and to Monterey County athletics. I am very pleased that North County High has such a strong and respected leader to follow Al Ferreira. Roger OSullivan brings a wealth of experience, expertise and wisdom to the position."

Roger served as a Head Track and Field Coach for 19 years (14 at NC and 5 at Palma) and achieved unparalled success that was widely recognized throughout Monterey County and CCS. He currently serves as an assistant coach with the Condor Track team.  He has held numerous other leadership positions both in education and in the community. Roger will continue to teach some sections of Government even as he tackles his new duties.

Roger has received many honors for his work in athletics and education. He was the 1988 Condor of the Year. He has received three teaching awards from outside groups over the years. He was a three time MBL Track and Field Coach of the Year. In 1994, Mr. O'Sullivan received the presitigious Central Coast Section Honor Coach Award.

NORTH COUNTY HIGH EARNS FULL 6 YEAR WASC TERM!!

The Western Association of Schools and Colleges announced that the Accrediting Commission of Schools granted a “full six-year term of accreditation with a midterm review, expiring on June 30, 2013. A WASC Visiting Committee studied the school’s action plan and carefully reviewed North County High during a late February, 2007 four day visit.

The full term earned by the school means that North Monterey County High School and its programs meet the rigorous standards outlined by WASC. Colleges, universities, the California State Department of Education and other national educational institutions recognize schools earning the WASC accreditation.
North Monterey County High School WASC Coordinator Whitney Grummon helped lead the staff, students and community on a two year self study process where the school’s strengths and growth needs were identified. A comprehensive action plan was created by the school’s WASC committee to address those growth needs in the coming years.

Principal Steve Hirt stated, “I am proud that North County High School has earned the full WASC term. The term is a testament to the high quality of the school’s instructional programs and the hard work put forth by every staff member. WASC Coordinator Whitney Grummon did terrific work in leading our school through the WASC process. I am anxious to start on our action plan and make our excellent school even better!”

2007 - 2008 Academic Reports

NORTH COUNTY HIGH SHINES IN STATE 05-06 ACADEMIC REPORT

           The State of California released the 2005 - 2006 APR report that includes the state API and the federal AYP (No Child Left Behind) on August 31, 2006.  NMCHS raised its API 24 points from 651 to 675!  The school's growth target was 7 points.  It marks the school's largest jump in the API since the accountability program was instituted several years ago.  The school also improved its performance for the seventh time in eight years.

North County High also met ALL federal and state goals; as a school and within all sub-groups. Of special note: only 29% of the high schools in California met all their goals this year!  While all sub groups showed improvement, the school's Hispanic/Latino and English Language Learner students showed the greatest improvement.
 
 Student performances on the CST (STAR) tests and California High School Exit Exams are used to calculate each high school's acadmic progress. Four subject areas are tested in the STAR Exam: Language Arts, Mathematics, Science and Social Studies.  The California High School Exit Exam tests students in Language Arts and Mathematics only.

          Principal Steve Hirt praised the hard work of the staff and students. He said, "it was a team effort.  We still want to do our best to prepare our students for life after high school.  We're always looking at ways to improve our instruction and curriculum.  Again, I am very pleased with the results that show the school's headed in the right direction."
 
API AND AYP WEIGHTED CRITERIA
 
                             CST (STAR) ELA                           .30
                             CST (STAR) MATH                       .20
                             CST (STAR) SCIENCE                  .15
                             CST (STAR) SOCIAL STUDIES    .225
 
                             CAHSEE ELA                                .30
                             CAHSEE MATH                            .30

NORTH COUNTY MEETS 04-05 STATE, FEDERAL GOALS

North Monterey County High School met all state and federal educational goals the California State Department of Education announced in September.

Results from the annual California Standardized Testing and Reporting (STAR) Exam, the California High School Exit Exam (CAHSEE) and school graduation rates were used to determine the school’s academic progress.

NMCHS raised its state Academic Performance Index (API) 11 points from 640 in 2004 to 651 in 2005. The school met its API goal for the sixth time in the past seven years. The STAR Exam and the High School Exit Exam results were used by the state to calculate the school’s progress.

The six federal “No Child Left Behind Act” Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) goals were met by North County High. Students needed to score at proficient levels on the CAHSEE in sufficent numbers (over 20% in 2005) in Math and Language Arts to met the national target. NMCHS far exceeded those expectations. The school’s graduation rate and API score also met the federal guidlines.

I am pleased that we have met all state and federal goals for 2005. Our staff continues to put forth an extraordinary effort to ensure that all students learn. We still have students who are not performing as well as we’d like. We are working hard at identifying their needs and supporting their academic efforts. Nonetheless, we look forward to continued academic progress even as we celebrate this good news.


Sincerely,
Steve Hirt, Principal
Please feel free to contact the school (633-5221) for more information on the above events.

NORTH COUNTY HIGH RECOGNIZED AT STATE SUPERINTENDENT’S SUMMIT IN SACRAMENTO

North Monterey County High School was recognized for its high graduation rate of Latino students during the “State Superintendent’s First Annual High School Summit” on October 25th, 2004 in Sacramento. Over three thousand educators from throughout the state, including NMCUSD Superintendent Keith Parkhurst, NMCHS Principal Steve Hirt and conference presenter and North County teacher Louann Baker, attended the two day conference under the leadership of State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O’Connell.

North County High was recognized during the opening session by the keynote speaker, Katy Haycock, a nationally known educational researcher.

In her address before the 3,000 attendees, Ms. Haycock highlighted successful high schools across the nation. She described the great work of selected schools in different areas of high school education. NMCHS was the first California high school she recognized in her address. She stated,

“Great things are happening in the state of California, too. North Monterey County High School has enjoyed great success in reaching students who traditionally struggle to graduate from high school. The percentage of Latinos who started at the school and actually graduated far surpasses the state average.”

Ms. Haycock went on to say that schools like NMCHS are models of how high schools can be successful and encouraged the conference participants to “look closely at the practices of these schools.”

NEED HELP WITH MATH, ENGLISH, SCIENCE, SOCIAL STUDIES OR ANY ACADEMIC CLASS?
STILL NEED TO PASS THE HIGH SCHOOL EXIT EXAM?

FREE AFTER SCHOOL TUTORIAL!!!

NEW! FREE LATE BUS TO CASTROVILLE, MOSS LANDING AND PRUNEDALE! (BUS LEAVES NC AT 4:40 PM)

WHEN: EVERY MONDAY AND WEDNESDAY- 3:15 PM - 4:30 PM

WHERE: MATH - ROOM 53 WITH MS. GLINES

ENGLISH, SCIENCE, SOC. STUDIES, SPANISH - LOWER LIBRARY/ COMPUTER LAB WITH MR. WHITE.

Trained College Tutors from UCSC in both rooms!!!

RAISE YOUR GRADES!
GET THE HELP YOU NEED!
ALL STUDENTS WELCOME!!!!

CLASS of 1998 10 Year Reunion

When: October 24th, Friday
Where: Elkhorn Yacht Club
Time/Price: TBA

If you're planning on attending, you can contact:
Maureen Bomactao - mbomactao@gmail.com
Ellen Phillips - elmorganphildog@gmail.com
Chris Young - christopherdavidyoung@gmail.com
Yuri Dew - ycd201@yahoo.com

If you have contact information or last known addresses for '98 graduates please send them along.

Thanks!
Maureen Bomactao

North County Class of ‘90

October 27th, Class of 1990 night out in Monterey!

Hey Condors!
Ever get to wondering how your class mates are doing? Ever wonder where they’re at in life? Well, here’s your chance to see what’s up! Jennifer Rondez-Zurita and Andrea Salacup are hosting a Night out in Monterey on October 27th. Consider this a PRE-20 Year High School Reunion… or should we just say 17 year get together??

This is an informal event dress as you wish and bring who you’d like…(except no Watsonville Wildcats!) Also, this is not a high school sponsored event. What’s that mean? It means bring your wallet! We will be spending the evening in Monterey for drinks, food, drinks, pool, drinks and maybe some dancing! So dust off those dancing shoes.

We will be sending out a second email once we have the location settled. Please pass this on to whomever I have missed…
See ya there!!

Go Condors!!

Contact Info:
Andrea Salacup: asalacup@synopsys.com
Jennifer Rondez-Zurita: jenzurita@earthlink.net

10th REUNION PICTURES FOR CLASS OF ‘95

Our class reunion was held at 7p.m. on November 5th at Peachwoods steakhouse in Santa Cruz. Alumni can view pictures at...
    http://jeffandraquel.albumpost.com/10-Year-Reunion-11-5-05?page=1

CLASS of 1988

When: Saturday, July 26, 2008

Time: 6 pm - 12 am
6-7 Meet and Greet
7-8:30 Seated Dinner
9-12 Music/Dancing

Where: Elks Lodge #614
614 Airport Blvd.
Salinas, CA 93905

Cost: $ 70.00 per person or $ 135.00 for a couple
*It is extremly important that anyone interested contact me ASAP to RSVP, I will need your address so I can send you an invitation. It will be a seated dinner, I must have your dinner choice and payment ASAP, they will prepare only what we pre-arrange.

This event is for paying adults!

A Family Event is Scheduled for;

When: Sunday, July 27, 2008
Time: 11 am - dusk
Where: Toro Park - Badger Flat Area
HWY 68
This is a family and friend event, the reserved area will hold 200 people, there is a large pit BBQ, electricity, running water. There is no covered area other than the trees so bring unbrellas if you want to be out of the sun. There is an option to pay a small fee for hot dog and soda, or feel free to bring your own. If there are enough that RSVP we will also have a dj for entertainment.

Cost: $ 9.00 for Alumnist $ 3.00 per plate there also will be an extra charge at the gate of $ 6 per car.

There is all the necessary information on classmates and myspace this is the link for the myspace site: http://www.myspace.com/condorclassof88
On Myspace you will find missing alumni and alumnist that are attending the reunion. You DO NOT need to have a myspace account. The Site is completly open to be viewed by anyone. If you have any questions or concerns Please contact me at poohim@att.net


Thanks for your time, Shelley Long-Grogan

Contact information is also available on classmates.com and there is a myspace.com place "NoMoCo1988" group name for our alumni.

North Monterey County Class of 1987
Wednesday May 2, 2007

**The Reunion date has been changed**
(Please take note of this.)

Where:  Embassy Suites, 1441 Canyon Del Rey, Seaside, CA
When:   Friday September 28th, 2007
Time:    6pm- Cocktail hour
             7pm - Buffet 
 
In order to coincide with Saturday September 29th's homecoming game, we have decided on moving the date of the Reunion from October 5th, 2007 to September 28th, 2007. All previous arrangements will remain the same, the only change being the date. 
 
If you do plan on coming, please do not wait until the last minute. The Embassy Suites will not accommodate for those who do not RSVP. They are only putting enough food & seating for those who have reserved in advance. Tickets are $85 per person.  If you have any questions, you can email me at Cali87cds@aol.com, or reach me at (831) 206-2835. Hope to hear from all of you.

ELOISE MILAM IS THE 2007 - 08 CONDOR OF THE YEAR!

North Monterey County High School awarded its most prestigious award, Condor of the Year, to the school’s Administrative Assistant Eloise Milam. Eloise was presented the award at the school’s final staff meeting on June 3rd. Eloise was selected by the school’s 23 person School Leadership Team for her great service to the students, staff and school.

Eloise has been at North County High since the school opened in 1978. She is one of three employees who has served at the school for 30 continuous years. Over the years, Eloise has served in many important positions in the school. She has been an attendance clerk, coordinator’s secretary, ASB finance clerk and, most recently, as the assistant principal/athletic secretary. Eloise became the school’s Administrative Assistant/Principal’s Secretary in the summer of 2007 upon the retirement of former Condor of the Year Carol Westfall.

Eloise jumped into her new position with great enthusiasm and initiative. Her work in this new position was magnificient from the very beginning of the year. She helped organize a new scheduling system for all freshmen. Ms. Milam trained and effectively managed all office staff to ensure that the school ran smoothly. She is the master multi-tasker who is able to work on several projects simultaneously. Eloise is a creative thinker and an excellent problem solver.

In accepting the Condor of the Year award, Eloise noted that her husband, David, and her late mother, Marie Rodriguez, were previous recipients of the award. It was a warm and touching moment. North Monterey County High School is proud of this true Condor; Eloise Milam: the 2007 - 2008 Condor of the Year!

HESIK AND TRUJILLO CONDOR ROOKIES OF THE YEAR

North County teachers Annameekee Hesik and Temo Trujillo were selected the 2007 - 08 Rookies of the Year for their superb contributions to NMCHS in their first year at the school. The School Leadership Team made the selection at the end of the school year.

Ms. Hesik joined NMCHS after teaching at North County Middle School for several years. In her first year at NC, Annameekee taught English to freshmen and sophomores. Her classroom was alive with excitement and great learning. Ms. Hesik’s lessons were carefully prepared and, combined with her dynamic classroom presence, her students enjoyed a great learning experience. In addition, Annameekee sponsored two vibrant and active clubs on campus.

Mr. Trujillo was the “Teacher of the Year” at Alisal High School before coming to North County. Temo, a 1998 graduate of North Monterey County High School, is a bright and resourceful Social Studies teacher. He brings a very strong depth of knowledge to all his subjects. Students are often working collaboratively in his classroom on creative projects related to the subject matter. Temo, the school record holder in the 800 meter run, is the Head Track and Field Coach for the Condors.

Congratulations to our two rising stars: Annameekee Hesik and Temo Trujillo!

  MELISSA DECKER EARNS ATHLETIC SCHOLARSHIP

   North County Senior Melissa Decker signed a national letter of intent to attend school and play softball at Henderson State University in Arkansas. 

Melissa, a star pitcher for the Condors, earned a full ride, four year scholarship to the Division II school.

Melissa's parents, Bruce and Lisa, and sister, Michelle, attended the signing ceremony in Principal Steve Hirt's office on November 14th.

Congratulations to Melissa Decker!

Hello all!
Just CLICK here for the RSVP flyer for our first Alumni Association Event, Friday, October 24, 2008 from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. at A Taste of Monterey, 700 Cannery Row, Suite KK, Monterey. It will be an evening of wine tasting and reconnecting with alumni and friends. Hope to see you there! We also have agreat deal on ALUMNI MEMBERSHIP - download the flyer by clicking here*

Join the Facebook group "North Monterey County High School Alumni Association."
Please invite other North County related people to join!!!

To see more details and confirm this group invitation, follow the link below:
http://www.facebook.com/n/?group.php&gid=30366623684

Don't forget about Black and White Spirit Dress Up every Friday!!!!!

Thanks so much!"

Jodie Kaminskis and Lori Lowensen
North Monterey County High School
Alumni Association
13990 Castroville Blvd.
Castroville, CA 95012
(831) 633-5221 ext. 343

ALUMNI CORNER   (NEWS AND NOTES ON CONDOR GRADS)
by Steve Hirt, Principal
    - Have info on a Condor alum? Contact me at 831-633-5221 or by email.

2000's

David Batinovich, Christopher Tansey and Joseph Yezek (NC '5) graduated from the Monterey Peninsula Fire Academy in December, 2006. Joe's mother, Liz, is the NMCHS Career Center Coordinator.   Christopher's grandfather, "Doc" Tansey, was Superintendent of the NMCUSD when North County High School opened in 1978!

Daniel Jenkins (NC ‘04) has earned the rank of Private and is an Aviation Technician in the United States Marines. He is training in Pensicola, Florida for one year.

Travis Bell (NC ‘04; BS University of Arizona, Major: Regional Development; Minor: Political Science, 2008) graduated in May from the University of Arizona. Travis lettered in football by playing for the Wildcats. His brother, Tanner, graduated from the U of A in 2006 and also competed for the Wildcat football team.

Tiffany Guglielmo (NC ‘03; BA Molecular and Cell Biology, UC Berkeley 2007) has been accepted in the medical program at West Virginia School of Oesteopathic Medicine and plans to focus on family practice and rural medicine.

Trevyn Anthony Guglielmo (NC '03; BS University of Wyoming, Major: Architectural Engineering, Mechanical Systems) is a Second Lieutenant in the United States Air Force and has been assigned to the Civil Engineering Detachment at McGuire Air Force Base in New Jersey.

Tanner Bell (NC '02; BS Major: Regional Development, Minor: Business Administration University of Arizona)  Tanner, a football letterman who received a full scholarship at the U of A, graduated in December, 2006.

Esteban Lara (NC '02) is part of a medical response team at  Westmed Emergency Services in Marina. He earned his Emergency Response Techician Certification shortly after high school. Esteban was recently featured in the Salinas Californian where he mentioned his high school job shadow assignment with an EMT as a life changing experience!

Jill Thornton (NC ‘02; a Senior at Sonoma St. University - majoring in Geography) just published Running Through Deserts, a novel that is available on Amazon.com and Barnesandnoble.com. Jill was featured in a full page article on the front page of the September 17, 2005 Living section of the Salinas Californian.

Kenichiro (Ken ) Yoshida (NC ‘02; BS Animal Science - Pre Veterinary Medicine California State University, Fresno, 2007 is currently working at Bionetics Corporation at the Contract Research Service facility at NASA AMES Research Center in Moffett Field, CA.

Alexandra Lett (NC ‘01; BA Human Development and Social Relations Kalamazoo College 2005). Alex has joined the Peace Corps and will be teaching Environmental Education to classroom teachers in Costa Rica.

Rachelle Perez (NC ‘01; BA Art Education and Art Studio  Humboldt State University 2005). Rachelle is a Regional Field Coordinator for AFS Intercultural Programs in Portland, OR. Rachelle was an AFS exchange student in Chile during her years at NC.

Mike Souza (NC ‘00; BA Illinois St. 2004) is playing quarterback in the Canadian Football League! He started at quarterback on September 29th against Toronto and threw for over 250 yards. Wow! Mike is the son of Hartnell Head Football Coach (and former NC Coach) Larry Souza and North County teacher Jane Souza.

Sara Evanger (NC ‘00; BS Wildlife Fish and Conservation Biology UC Davis 2004) is returning to the United States after living and studying in Cape Town, South Africa for eight months. She also circumnavigated South Africa with eleven other students.

Cheyene Daries (NC ‘00; BA Centenary 2004) is a softball pitcher in Europe for the Amsterdam Pirates. Cheyene was the Mid Con MVP and Pitcher of the Year for Centenary in 2004 while leading her team to the league title. She pitched a one hitter in the NCAA 2004 Regionals against Arizona State.

Paris Carvey (NC ‘00) is finishing his 5 year enlistment with the United States Marines. He flew combat missions in Iraq as part of Heavy Helicopter Squadron 462. Paris also assisted with the tsunami relief effort in Sri Lanka. He is interested in a career in acting and has already appeared in commercials and some TV shows. Paris and his wife, Heather, live in San Diego.

JoAnna Claassen-Luttner (NC ‘00; BA UC Santa Cruz 2004) is traveling with friends in Asia and Africa, bringing to a total of six continents she’ll have visited! This past fall Joanna worked as a home-based teacher working with Spanish speaking families in Watsonville.

1990's

Naomi Hatter (NC ‘99; BS (suma cum laude) Psychology Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo 2003; Masters in Education and Calif. Single Subject (English) Teaching Credential Cal Poly, SLO 2006) Naomi wants to be a teacher after enjoying subbing in our district and coaching soccer.

Brandan Gillogly (NC ‘99; BA American Studies University of California, Davis 2004). Brandan is living in southern California where he works as a writer/photographer for Trukin’ Magazine in Anaheim. His mother, Frances, continues to provide great service in the North County Cafeteria.

Milagros Gomez (NC ‘99; BA Political Science and Spanish UC Davis 2003; MA Spanish Literature UC Davis 2005) is working on her doctorate at UC Davis. She is also an Associate Instructor at UCD.

Alex Vassar (NC ‘99; BA San Jose St. University) is currently working in Sacramento as part of the Capitol Fellows Program. He is working with a state senator while he works on his Master's in Public Administration through CSU Sacramento. Alex and fellow 1999 NC grad, Shane Meyers, started a political website (joincalifornia.com) that received 1.5 million hits last year. Shane received a Congressional Commendation for this work on the project in 2006!

Sara Blagg (NC ‘98; BA Political Science University of California, Davis; Seattle University Law School, 2005). Sara lives in Seattle and works for King County as a Family Law Facilitator. She works in Superior Court representing families that can’t afford their own attorney.

Rodney Brillante (NC ‘98; BA Communications UC Davis, 2002) is a financial aid advisor at Expression Art School in Emeryville, CA.  Rodney is also a singer/songwriter and just released his first album.  Rodney is single and lives with ‘98 classmate Chris Young.

Yuri Dew (NC ‘98; BA Major: Political Science, Minor: Education University of Southern California 2002; MA Educational Administration New York University 2004) lives in New York City. She works for the nation’s largest non-profit agency, the Federation Employment and Guidance Service, as the Assistant Director of Workforce Development. At USC, Yuri was the Black Grad Valedicatorian for the Class of 2002!

Eric Jones (NC ‘98; BA Spanish and Psychology - Double major - UC Davis 2003). Eric lives in San Francisco and works at a video game publisher website company.

Christopher MacMillan (NC ‘98) is serving in the United States Navy as military medical professional. Christopher has served in Kuwait, Japan, San Diego, South Carolina and aboard the USS Enterprise. He is now an instructor at the Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Command in Bridgeport, CA.

Katrina (Miller) Hornbuckle (NC '98; AA Butte College in University Studies and Social and Behavioral Science; BA Chico State University Major: Criminal Justice, 2007). Katrina and her husband, Jason, live in Chico with their three month old daughter, Amelia.

John Heintzberger (NC ‘98; BS Plant Biology University of California - Davis) is working as a lettuce breeder for Paragon Seed, Inc. in Salinas and Yuma, Arizona. He was the North County High ASB Vice President in 1997-98. John lives in south Salinas.

Abby Souza (NC ‘98; BA Organizational Communications with a minor in Journalism California State University, Stanislaus) is a reporter for the Sonora Union Democrat in Sonora, CA. Recently, Ms. Souza was awarded the “Partners in Education Excellence” award from Region 7 of the Association of California School Administrators. Abby’s mother, Jane, is a Home Economics teacher at NMCHS. Her father, Larry, is the former Head Football Coach at North County and is currently the Head Coach at Hartnell College.

Chris Young (NC ‘98; BA Social Psychology Stanford University, 2002; MA Education Stanford University, 2004) is a social studies teacher at Berkeley High School.  He will be the acting Activities Director at the school this Fall.   Chris is single and lives in Berkeley with ‘98 classmate Rodney Brillante.

Maria Ziolkowski (NC ‘98) is the Payroll and Employee Benefits Manager for a company in Simi Valley, CA.  She has three children Adelina, 6; Makayla, 4 and Carson, 1.

Merlyn Calderon (NC ‘97; BA California State University, Monterey Bay, Major: Global Studies, 2001; Master’s in Public Administration, University of Southern California, 2005) has recently returned to the Central Coast and is serving as the National Deputy Political Director for the United Farm Workers of America. Merlyn has worked in the California State Assembly with Assemblywoman Judy Chu. She also served in the U.S. Embassy in Paris, France. In Washington D.C., Ms. Calderon served in the office of Senator John Kerry (who was the Democratic nominee for President in 2004) on the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, worked with the U.S. State Department and, from 2005 - 2007, worked in the Presidential Management Fellowship program. Recently, Merlyn has given presentations to several classes at NMCHS on her incredible life journey.

Summer (Jennings) Haro (NC ‘97; BA History and Theater Arts Loyola Marymount - Los Angeles 2001; MA New Mexico St. 2002) is working on her Juris Doctorate at McGeorge School of Law in Sacramento. Her husband, Matthew (a Palma grad), is in the Air Force.

Summer (Dew) Havins (NC ‘97; BA UCLA 2001; MA in Secondary Mathematics 2004) teaches high school mathematics in Georgia where her husband, a U.S. Army Ranger, is stationed.

David Holland (NC ‘97; BS Chemistry and BA Biology UC Santa Cruz 2002) is working on his PhD in Chemistry at Purdue University in Indiana. David hopes to teach and work on research at a small college or university when he completes his Doctorate in 2008.

Matt Hirt (NC ‘97; BA Major: Communications, Minor: Spanish UCLA 2001) is the Imaging Director and a morning show co-host on Power 92.3, the top ranked radio station in Phoenix, Arizona. Matt worked at KDON-FM in 2001-2002 before he and and the crew from MG’s Morning Madhouse were hired in Phoenix... and, yes, he’s the Principal’s oldest son.

Anthony Pedroni (NC ‘96; BS Environmental Engineering, Stanford University 2000; MBA Naval Postgraduate School 2005) is a Captain in the United States Air Force. After finishing his education at the Postgraduate School in Monterey, Anthony will become an instructor at the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado. Anthony is the oldest son of former North County Principal and current NMCUSD Assistant Superintendent Don Pedroni. He and his wife Celeste have lived in Mississippi, Guam and Prunedale.

Todd Appleby (NC Class of 1995; BA Biology UC Santa Barbara 2000) teaches Science and Spanish at Norwood Junior High. Todd and his wife, Tara, live in Sacramento.

Rick Lemmon (NC ‘95; BA Information Systems San Diego State University) lives in San Diego and works for the college in IT.

Dawn Tanner (NC ‘95; BA Major-Zoology, Double Minor- Chemistry and Microbiology Brigham Young University 2000). After earning her BA, Dawn worked as a volunteer English teacher in Wuhan, China and on a Navajo Reservation in southern Utah. Dawn is attending medical school at Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska. She wants to work with underserved populations when she becomes a physician.

Amber (Tanner) C. Steen (NC ‘95; BS Construction Management Cal Poly San Luis Obispo 2004) lives in Oceanside, CA and is a Construction Superintendent for Pulte Homes. Amber traveled and lived in Europe prior to graduating from Cal Poly. She was recruited to Pulte Homes where she worked as a Superintendent in the Orange County area. While living in Oceanside, CA she married Philip Steen who is currently a Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps. They recently relocated to Kimberly, ID where Amber is back in school working towards her degree in Registered Nursing. Riedesel & Associates - Twin Falls, 208-733-2446, fax 208-734-2748.

Jesus Galindo (NC ‘94; BS Physical Education Sacramento State University 1999; California Secondary Teaching Credential Sacramento State 2000; Masters in Education Cal. State University Monterey Bay 2003) is a teacher at his alma mater, North County High! He is the Head Varsity Boys Basketball Coach at NC. Jesus and his wife Audelia live in Hollister.

Omar Mercado (NC ‘94; BA San Diego St. 2002) teaches special education at North Monterey County High School. Omar also coaches football and serves on the school’s GAP committee that addresses the needs of its at risk students.

Nicole Rothstein (NC ‘93; BA University of Southern California 1997; University of San Diego School of Law 1995) just passed the California State Bar Exam and is now a practicing attorney in Los Angeles.

Mike Turner (NC ‘93; BA Stanford ‘97) is finishing up medical school at Harvard University. Mike will graduate on June 9, 2005.

John D’Auria (NC ‘92; BS (High Honors) Biochemistry University of California, Davis 1996; Masters of Science Biology University of Michigan 1999; PHD Molecular, Cellular & Developmental Biology University of Michigan 2002). John is now a post doctoral fellow at the Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology in Jena, Germany. He has been awarded numerous fellowships over the years. He can be reached at dauria@ice.mpg.de.

Helen (Dorado) Maestas (NC ‘92; BA Communication and Political Science University of New Mexico) has worked in Washington D.C. with Congressman Tom Udall and in Santa Fe, New Mexico with U.S. Senator Jeff Bingaman. She is currently working on her MA in Organizational Leadership through Gonzaga University. Helen and her husband, Chris, live in Albuquerque and welcomed their first child, Carmen Isabell, into the world this past April. Helen can be reached at <hdmaestas@comcast.net>.

Jerry Morales (NC ‘92; BA Fresno St. ‘97) is doing a fabulous job as the Migrant Coodinator at North Monterey County High School.

Stephanie Matthew-Diaz (NC '91) attended the University of California, San Diego and majored in Theater and Literature. She is an actress and lives in Chicago.   Stephanie is currently performing in the King and I in Chicago. Recently, she audtioned for a role on Broadway in New York City. She has taught theater in residency at middle schools and high schools in Chicago, San Diego and Seattle and is currently an instructor at the Auditorium Theater of Roosevelt University.

Melesio Munoz (NC ‘91; BA Computer and Information Sciences, and History UC Santa Cruz) works two very exciting positions. He is a researcher with the California and Carnegie Search for Extrasolar Planets with San Francisco State University. Mr. Munoz also works with the Optical SETI program at the Lick Observatory on Mount Hamilton near San Jose. He searches for planets around other stars, and civilizations that may be trying to communicate with us right now!

Tiffany (Ventresca) Cotter (NC ‘91; BS Health Sciences The Ohio State University 1997, MA in Counseling/PPS San Jose St. University 2006) is the Head Volleyball Coach at North County High. Ms. Cotter is currently serving as a Coordinator. Tiffany and her husband, Geno, have a beautiful one year old daughter, Bailey.

Todd Whitehurst (NC ‘90; BA Sociology Sonoma State University 1996; MA Educational Counseling and P.P.S.C. San Jose State University 2002).  Todd is the District Administrator for Aspira’s Foster and Family Services in Kern County, CA.  He and his wife, Jeannie, live in Bakersfield.  One of the finest athletes in North County history (helped lead the Condors to 3 CCS Championships in football and 1 in baseball), Todd reports that he has a 5 handicap in golf.

Brian Brennan (NC ‘90; BA Stanford ‘94; MA Princeton ‘01) is working on an advanced degree at Oxford University in England. Brian has worked in Russia for the U.S. government periodically over the last few years. Politcal Science and Governmental Affairs are his areas of speciality.

1980's

Dave Gilchrist (NC '89; BA Brigham Young University, Major: Math Education; Minor: PE, 1996; MA Western Governors University in Education, 2004) is a high school math teacher, football coach (Offensive Coordinator) and an assistant varsity basketball coach in Orem, Utah. Dave and his wife, Alisa, have five children. He is hoping the Class of ‘89 will put together a 20 year reunion!

Nicole Rothstein (NC ‘89; BA English Literature University of Southern California 1993) is finishing the University of San Diego School of Law this Spring. Nicole is married to a UCLA grad and lives in San Diego.

Bryon Benini (NC ‘88).  Brian is the Vice President of Dye Precision Paint Ball Co. in San Diego, CA.  He travels world wide representing his company.  He is a professional paint baller with the San Diego Ironmen.  He is Carol Westfall’s (the NC Principal’s secretary) son.  He has a five year old son.

Robert Fernandez (NC ‘88; BS  Major Finance, Minor Economics San Jose State University) is the owner of Atlas Mortgage in Salinas and Bakersfield.  Robert was recently featured on the front page of the Business 101 section of the Salinas Californian. He has started a scholarship at NMCHS and presents it yearly at the Senior Awards Night in June. Robert is single and lives in Gilroy.

Shelley (Long) Grogan (NC ‘88; Columbia College, AA) Licensed Nail Technician, Married 1998, Three children two girls and one boy.

Laura (Whitmire) Carr (NC ‘88; BA Major: Sociology San Diego State University, 1996; MA Marriage and Family Therapy Alliant International University, 1998) is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in San Diego and teaches at a local university. She is married and has a 3 year old son, Alexandre.

James Pennington (NC ‘88; BA East Asian Studies College of William and Mary 1993; MA Cognitive and Lingustic Studies Brown University) has his own foreign language translation business in San Francisco.

Chris (Toby) Halstead (NC ‘87) is serving his third tour of duty as a United States Marine in Iraq. He is the father of two children, Stephen and Camille. His sister, Crickett Halstead-Hoffman is an alum from our school’s first graduating class in 1980 and currently lives in Los Angeles.

Ron Welts (NC ‘87; BS Marine Engineering Cal Maritime; MBA Saint Mary’s 1999). Ron is the General Manager for the entire Canadian division of Otis Elevator.

Everett Jenkins (NC ‘86; BA South Carolina State University, 1990) works as a Production Manager for Pepsi Americas in St. Louis, Mo. He served as a Captain in the United States Army and saw combat in Somalia in the mid-1990’s. Everett is in the North County High Basketball Hall of Fame and played Division I college basketball at South Carolina St. He is married and lives in Missouri.

Kim (Kotolup) Memmott (NC ‘86; BA Simpson College 1990) is married to Mike Memmott, the Pastor of High School Ministries at Bethany Community Church in Tempe, Arizona. After several years of teaching middle school and serving as Principal of a small Christian school in Kansas, Kim is happy to be a stay-at-home mom. She and her husband have three children.

Dave Norwood (NC ‘86; BA California State University, Sacramento) is the Site President for Citigroup Credit Services, Inc as part of the Dallas Transaction Services site. He also serves on the Board of Directors of the Dallas-Fort Worth Native American Chamber of Commerce. He is happily married and the father of two children. He lives with his family in Irving, Texas.

Lonce Bailey (NC ‘85; PHD. Political Science University of Massachusetts 2006) was recently featured in the Salinas Californian. He recently earned his doctorate at UMass. His dissertation was Ideological Dissention in the Progressive Era.  Lonce was the 1984 - 85 North County High ASB President and was one of the founders of the school's famous Election Convention.

Mike Azevedo (NC ‘84) recently retired after 21 years of service in the United States Navy. Mike married Elaine Almendras in Singapore in 2005. They have a one year old daughter, Victoria. Mike is interested in any reunions hosted by the Class of ‘84. His e-mail address is <mike_azevedo@hotmail.com>.

Jay (JJ) Cordoba (NC '84) just retired from the United States Marines after 22 years of service! He lives in Albany, GA. and is a government contractor for the Marine Corps Logistics Command.

Rob Welts (NC ‘84; BA Applied Management Kaplan University) Rob served in the Navy for twelve years. He taught Advanced Electronics and served on submarines in the service. Rob is currently Director of Operations for Victory Global Solutions. He is married, has two sons and lives near Pittsburgh, PA.

Darren Greenwood (NC '83; BS Park University Major: Management Computer Information Systems, 2006) is retired from a long career in the Air Force. He is currently working in Iraq as a contractor in support of American troops.

Lisa (Kimple) Smiley (NC ‘82) owns the largest face painting company, Smiley Orca Face Painting, in California. She lives in Pacific Grove with her husband Michael. They have two sons (Khristofer and Nicholas) and one daughter (Michelle).

Eva Leyva (NC '82; Porterville College, RN program, 2006) just passed her state board exams to become a nurse. Eva retired from the U.S. Postal Service after 17 years before changing careers. She and her husband have four girls and live in Hanford, CA.

Kevin Jennings and Teresa (Dunkin) Jennings (NC ‘82) are married and live in Morgan Hill. They have three children: Jessica, 19; Christina, 15 and James, 13. Their children attend LiveOak High School, but both parents still always root for the Condors! Teresa is a stay at home mom. Kevin attended DeVry in Phoenix, AZ. and earned a BSEET. He received his MBA from Pepperdine University.

Congratulations! We are proud of all of our distinguished gradutuates.

Do you have info to share about yourself or another North County alum?
Contact Steve Hirt via e-mail at .... skinman13@aol.com

SCHOOL GRIEVES FOR LOSS OF JUVENAL GARCIA, JR.

Juvenal Garcia, Jr. was killed in an automobile accident on January 31, 2005. Juvenal was a sophomore at North County High. He was 15 years old.
Services were held on Thursday, February 3rd at Our Lady of Refuge Catholic Church in Castroville. Family, friends, school mates and NC staff were among the hundreds of mourners at the service.

Juvenal was a good boy with lots of friends at school. This is a terrible tragedy. Juvenal will be greatly missed.

  NORTH COUNTY MOURNS BRENDEN TSUKIMURA

North Monterey County High School mourns the loss of 2004 alum Brenden Tsukimura. Brenden was murdered in a failed robbery attempt at his place of employment on December 11th.

Brenden was a good student at NMCHS. He was a two sport athlete in football and track and field. He was always friendly and accepting of others. Brenden was a student at Monterey Peninsula College at the time of his death. Brenden has been remembered and honored by his many friends in several different ways this week.

This was a senseless and cowardly act that robbed our community of a good and decent young man. Brenden was an excellent citizen and a fine student who had many friends. He was a wonderful young man.

During the services at Cypress Community Church, at the burial immediately following at Monterey City Cemetary and at the Rememberance at North Monterey County High School Forum Saturday afternoon, over 500 of Brendan's friends and family honored him and comforted each other.

Monterey County Herald Obituary and Guest book entries for Brenden

  KEVIN COSTELLO REMEMBERED

Kevin Costello, the North Monterey County High School 2004 Valedictorian, passed away on August 31, 2004 after suffering major injuries in an accidental fall while on a field trip.

Kevin was on a trip with other students as part of the Presidential Scholars program at San Francisco State University along the Marin County Coastline.

North Monterey County High School mourns his loss. Kevin attended NMCHS all four years. He played on the school’s roller hockey team and enjoyed surfing in his spare time. He graduated at the top of his class of 330 students and spoke eloquently at the 2004 graduation on June 11, 2004. Kevin was an outstanding musician. He played in the school’s marching, concert and jazz bands. He performed with the band in China and at events related to the dedication of the World War ll Memorial in Washington D.C. this past May. He also played with Left Side Antics, a popular rock band, with several of his high school friends.

A memorial reception for Kevin was held on September 3rd at Pajaro Dunes, a beachside community where Kevin resided with his family. A large contingent of family, friends and school staff attended and fondly remembered Kevin.

Kevin had an amazing zest for life. He attacked each new challenge with passion and a smile on his face. His energy was contagious! Kevin Costello set a great example of how to succeed and enjoy life! He will be dearly missed.

Half Moon Bay Review Article

Steve Hirt, Principal
Sincerely,
    (831) 633-5221