St. Anthony School Programs: Creating Opportunities for Students with Special Needs
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Spring 2005

Spring is Busy with Activity for St. Anthony's Students and Staff


Golf Outing at Oakmont Country Club

Mark Twain once said, "Golf is a good walk spoiled." Mr. Twain obviously never had an opportunity to participate in the St. Anthony's annual Golf Outing at Oakmont Country Club. The 2005 golf outing held on April 18th was a tremendous success. The event was sold out this year, and over 120 golfers enjoyed the sunny 78 degree weather and the beautifully manicured greens and fairways of Oakmont Country Club. Golf was followed by an elegant dinner and the awarding of prizes for the tournament winners.

As usual, our students were the highlight of the event. Kristin Wagoner entertained the golfers with her renditions on the piano, and David Bechtold showcased his successes as he told attendees more about his experiences with the program. Even those who entered this event with no prior knowledge of St. Anthony's left the event with a greater understanding of the wonderful life-changing programs that are being offered to our students.

This event raised over $34,000 for the special children of St. Anthony's, due to the generosity and support of the participants.

Thank you to all that participated, and we hope to see you again next year. If you or your group would be interested in golfing next year, please contact the St. Anthony's office at 412-882-1333.


Kristin Wagoner, her dad Ken, David Beechtold, his mom Cindy and Gary Eiseman, Vocational Director enjoy the program at the golf outing.


Henry DeFrancesca, Max Janairo and Brad Barr present a check to Board President Matthew Schneider.


Faith Formation at St. Anthony's


Justin Puharic, Father Paul Zywan and Deven Michel at the students' First Holy Communion

St. Anthony students begin religious education in Kindergarten and continue each year as the students learn about their faith and prepare early on the receive the sacraments of Reconciliation, First Holy Communion and Confirmation.

Pictured at right are Justin Puharic and Deven Michel who received the sacrament of their First Holy Communion on April 10, 2005 at St. Alexis with Father Paul Zywan officiating. Justin and Deven were able to participate in religious classes inclusively at their school and worked with their families at home to prepare for this special day.


St. Anthony's Throws a Strike with the Annual Bowl-A-Rama


St. Anthony students Lauren Bianco, Jordan Hilty, David Cooke and Emily DeFrancesco enjoy an afternoon of bowling.

St. Anthony students took over the New Great Valley Lanes in North Versailles during the annual Bowl-A-Rama held on April 17th. Over 120 students and their families participated in this fun-filled day of fellowship which included bowling, a silent auction, 50/50 raffle and of course an afternoon of fun!

This year, students were given the opportunity to solicit family members and friends to sponsor them at the bowling outing. Fifteen of our students got sponsors in the $74-$99 range and were eligible to bowl for free. Fourteen students got sponsors in the $100-$199 range and earned a $20 Loews movie card, and three students secured sponsors for over $200 and will earn a savings bond for their efforts. Congratulations to all of our students on a great job!

It was a super day which raised over $4,500 for St. Anthony's. Thank you to our students, parents, volunteers and staff. The day would not have been possible without your help. We truly appreciate all of your efforts.


St. Anthony's Graduates Six Students in the Spring of 2005

The St. Anthony's staff is proud to report that we have six students graduating from our programs this year. Congratulations to:

Curry Alder, North Catholic
Lauren Bianco, Duquesne
Jessica Carpon, Duquesne
Jordan Hilty, Duquesne
Paul Sanker, Duquesne
Mike Tedesco, Bishop Canevin

Briefs...

  • This September, the United Way will once again be starting its annual campaign. You can contribute to St. Anthony's directly by selecting donor option #194. These donations, when multiplied with other contributions, have the power to bring about real changes in the lives of our students and their families. Many employers match contributions made as payroll deductions. Don't forget to check with your employer, and continue to support St. Anthony's all year long.

  • Did you see our article? The March 25, 2005 edition of the National Catholic Reporter included an article regarding the uniqueness of St. Anthony School Programs. The article highlights many of the successes of our St. Anthony students and staff. If you missed it, make sure to get a copy. It's a wonderful reflection on the great work that is going on in our program.

Inclusive Games


Clara Govanchini from SS. Simon and Jude runs for the finish line in the relay race.

As soon as the words "Let the games begin" were shouted, our students were off to another fun day at the annual Inclusive Games. This year's event was held on April 29th at St. Paul Seminary. Each year St. Anthony's students from all of our schools and their general education peers compete together and against each other in events including a long jump, tug of war and relay race. The games were a great success, however they would not have been possible without the help from parents, principals, teachers, staff and volunteers!


Justin Puharic gets encouragement from his teacher Melanie Sobeck.


Lucy Devlin plans strategy with her teacher Mrs. Young.


Everyone's a winner at the inclusive games as judges tally up the scores.


From the Executive Director...Gary Lasinski

One of the greatest assets in life, as I see it, is its true friendships. A friend is a valued possession.

What is true of our personal lives is also true in our professional lives. We like to have our donors feel that there is a warmth of friendship that goes out from St. Anthony's with every success story accomplished. As the school year comes to a close, I am sure everyone can reflect on many positive moments, such as the golf tournament, the Bowl-A-Rama and, of course, the Inclusive Games which were all highly visible events that have promoted the mission of St. Anthony's.

I offer you my thanks and grateful appreciation for the role you have played in enabling us to reach so many goals this past year. Your loyalty and confidence in St. Anthony School Programs has contributed greatly to our success. I truly hope the spring and summer will be pleasant seasons of work and relaxation for you and your family.

With My Very Best Regards,

Gary Lasinski

Educating God's Special Children

Times are financially difficult for most of us. Perhaps you've decided to cut corners, packing lunch instead of buying it or going out to eat less often.

Times are difficult for St. Anthony's too. However, we don't have the option of cutting corners on our students' education. As you decide how to spend your hard-earned dollars, please remember the exceptional children at St. Anthony's.

Your prayerful gift is appreciated more than you know!

There are many ways to give:
  • Spring appeal

  • Remember St. Anthony's in your will

  • Donate a valuable item for an auction

  • Support a special event

  • United Way Donor Option #194
Wish List...
  • $1,000 will buy a much needed computer.

  • $500 will help fund critical life skills education for a student.

  • $335 will educate a child for a day.

  • $100 will purchase a child's books.

  • $80 will find a St. Anthony student for the summer program.

2005 Opportunity Award Dinner

Mark your calendar...

Friday, October 14, 2005
The Westin Convention Center, Pittsburgh
Cocktails and Silent Auction begin at 5:30 p.m.
Dinner and Award Presentation at 7:00 p.m.

The dinner honors individuals, organizations and corporations that throughout the year, significantly supported students with developmental disabilities and St. Anthony's beyond expectation. Mark your calendar today, and plan to attend this special event. For additional information, please call our office at 412-882-1333.

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