Flight of the Firebirds: A Kellenberg Memorial Podcast

In this episode of Flight of the Firebirds, physics teacher and EMT program moderator Mr. Paul Ditrano explores Kellenberg Memorial’s 15-year partnership with the Nassau County EMS Academy and the impact of its student EMT training program. He is joined by seniors Caroline Davide ’26 and Rima Courgi ’26, along with alumna Erin Moore-Salomone ’13, who now works as a cardiothoracic ICU nurse at Nort...

This episode of Flight of the Firebirds celebrates a year of dedication, curiosity, and innovation for twenty of Kellenberg Memorial’s standout 8th graders. These students pioneered the Latin School’s first-ever Aquinas Program, an experience blending research, hands-on learning, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Hosted by Mr. James Walsh, director of Latin School admissions and Aquinas Program...

This special bilingual episode of Flight of the Firebirds brings listeners into the experience of language learning at Kellenberg Memorial. Hosted by advanced Spanish teacher Mrs. Susan Borruso, the episode features fellow advanced Spanish teacher Mrs. Lidia Marten and students Gabriel Garo ’27, Melanie Argueta ’27, and Kyara Diaz ’26. Together, they reflect on the value of challenging themselves...

In this special episode of Flight of the Firebirds, religion teacher Mr. Shaun Moran '04 sits down with chemistry teacher Mrs. Kacie Anthony '16 and students Riley James '26 and James Hartery '26 to reflect on the journey through Lent and the start of Holy Week—a time when sorrow and celebration begin to intertwine. The group shares their personal Lenten sacrifices and spiritual practices, from gi...

This episode of Flight of the Firebirds highlights the transformation of the St. Sebastian Hall weight room at Kellenberg Memorial. Host Sophia Venturino ’26 is joined by teacher and coach Chris Alfalla, strength and football coach Cole Neuendorf, sophomore Michael Cotto, and junior Veronica Braut to discuss how the newly redesigned space is helping build a stronger Kellenberg student body. Guests...

In this episode of Flight of the Firebirds, join Varsity cheer coach Mrs. Kelly Meisse, Varsity dance coach Miss Ashley Forbes, Varsity dancer Peyton Smith, and Varsity cheerleaders Olivia D’Angelo and Charlotte Kearns as they reflect on their incredible Nationals experience in Florida. The teams discuss the grit, teamwork, school spirit, and faith that helped them thrive in the competition. The a...

In this episode of Flight of the Firebirds, Mrs. Castelli, head coach of the Kellenberg Memorial High School Science Olympiad team, joins members of her New York State–bound squad to discuss the program and the excitement surrounding their recent qualification. Seniors Zachary Corallo and Lauren Reyes, along with junior Conor Stanton, take listeners inside the rigorous preparation required for Sci...

In this episode of Flight of the Firebirds, Mr. John Benintendi, Assistant Principal for Activities at Kellenberg Memorial, leads a conversation centered on the school’s service and leadership clubs. Joined by Mrs. Mia Delbrune and Dr. Val Serpe, moderators of the SMART Program and the Service Immersion Club, the discussion highlights meaningful service opportunities and their lasting impact on st...

In this episode of Flight of the Firebirds, Fr. Tom Cardone, S.M., sits down with Brother Michael McAward, S.M., and Brother Roger Poletti, S.M., on the feast of Blessed William Joseph Chaminade. Together, they explore the mission of the Marianists and reflect on influential figures such as Father Philip Eichner and Brother Joseph C. Fox. Brother Michael and Brother Roger share their personal jour...

In this episode of Flight of the Firebirds, Mr. Christopher Kahn, the Latin School’s technology teacher, explores how technology is being used to enhance, not replace, the core values and lessons of a Kellenberg Memorial education. Joined by eighth grade students Samantha Vona, Reilly Toner, and Brandon Black, the conversation highlights how interactive tools, digital projects, and responsible tec...

In this episode of Flight of the Firebirds, Mrs. Peggy York welcomes the new year alongside senior Anabelle Senatus, junior Harper Lollo, and sophomore Jayden Gomes. Together, they reflect on the lessons of 2025 and set meaningful goals for 2026. The students share their New Year traditions, discuss the value of setting attainable resolutions, and highlight both their academic and personal aspirat...

In this episode of 'Flight of the Firebirds,' Mr. Liam Von Elm and his colleagues, Mr. Kevin A'Hearn, Mrs. Jeanne Ceasar, and Mrs. Brittany Shukri , discuss their favorite Christmas traditions and pastimes. They talk about the music, movies, decorations, and family customs that the season would be incomplete without.  The conversation wraps with reflections on the joyous environment created at Kel...

In this episode of 'Flight of the Firebirds,' Mr. Matthew Kirk, Assistant Principal of Student Life at Kellenberg Memorial's Brother Joseph C. Fox Latin School, interviews three senior students: Valentina Colasuonno, Brooke Oldenborg, and Miles Abdeldaim. They reflect on their decision to stay at Kellenberg Memorial beyond the Latin School and describe the faith and confidence that transitioned th...

In this episode of 'Flight of the Firebirds,' special guest Bishop John Oliver Barres, STD, JCL, sits down with Mr. Robert York ‘01, Assistant Principal for Personnel and Parent Relations and Kellenberg Memorial seniors Amelia Campbell and Robert De Tullio to discuss the significance of the Advent season. The conversation covers ways to spiritually prepare for Christmas, the traditions and memorie...

In this episode, Miss Morgan D’Argenio, moderator of the Drama Club, sits down with the stars of Kellenberg Memorial’s fall production of Annie. Ahead of opening night, Grace Power ’29 and James Florio ’26 share insights into their roles as Annie and Oliver Warbucks—and the personal connections that make these characters so meaningful to them. Listeners will get a unique understanding of the hard...

In this episode of 'Flight of the Firebirds,' Mr. Matthew Bursig, Chairman of the History Department, sits down with his colleague, Sergeant First Class Anthony Wevers and Abigail Hassett ‘27, to discuss the importance of Veterans Day. In this patriotic conversation, Mr. Wevers shares unique takeaways from his 25 years of service in the 42nd Infantry Division Band and Abigail taps into her family’...

In this episode of 'Flight of the Firebirds,' Father Daniel Griffin explores vocational discernment and the call to religious life and priesthood. The discussion with Brother Kenneth Hoagland, Father Matt Browne ‘11, and Father John Crozier ‘11, centers around their personal journeys and the powerful motivations behind their commitment to serve. They debunk common misconceptions about religious vo...

From backyard ballgames in Lynbrook, to spreading the Word of God across the world, Archbishop Christopher Cardone, O.P., and Father Thomas Cardone, S.M., discuss the bonds of faith, family, and service. In this heartwarming episode of Flight of the Firebirds, host John Gaffney ’26 sits down with the Cardones to reflect on their Long Island roots, their formative years at Chaminade and Kellenberg...

This episode of the 'Flight of the Firebirds' podcast, hosted by Mrs. Anne Masiulis ‘02, delves into the strengthening of sibling bonds at Kellenberg Memorial. The discussion features the White Sisters, Bridget, Kelly, and Shannon, the Porter brothers, Jordan and Jaden, and the Gutierrez siblings, Arle and Isabella.  In their conversation, the siblings touch on their school day interactions, daily...

In this episode of the "Flight of the Firebirds" podcast, Assistant Principal for Admissions, Mr. O'Brien is joined by current students, an alumni, and a parent to discuss what makes Kellenberg Memorial High School so special. They share personal stories and insight into the school’s supportive, family-like atmosphere, highlight unique programs, champion the Marianist mission and discuss how Kelle...

In this episode of Flight of the Firebirds, Mr. Castelli, a religion teacher at Kellenberg Memorial, is joined by Father Daniel Griffin, students John Furlong and Abigail Moscola, and special guest Christian Surtz, co-director of 'Carlo Acutis: Roadmap to Reality.' The discussion delves into the inspiring life of the first millennial saint, exploring how St. Carlo’s faith, use of technology, and E...

Mr. O'Brien hosts a special podcast with four exceptional seniors and three influential teachers from Kellenberg Memorial High School. They reflect on their experiences, memorable moments, and the impact of their education as they prepare for the next steps in their lives. The seniors share their favorite school memories, talk about their college choices, and offer advice to incoming students. Tea...

In this episode of the Flight of the Firebirds podcast, host Robert Tulio is joined by Mrs. York and Father Dan, the school chaplain, to discuss the importance of attending Mass and understanding the real presence of Jesus in the Eucharist. The conversation covers eye-opening statistics about church attendance, the impact of the Eucharistic revival, and how current events like the election of Pope...

In this episode of the Flight for the Firebirds podcast, host Robert Tulio is joined by Father Tom and Mr. Basil to discuss the recent inauguration of Pope Leo XIV. The guests share their thoughts on the inauguration ceremony, the Pope's initial actions, and the historical significance of his name choice. The conversation delves into the themes of unity, love, and social justice highlighted by Pop...

In this episode of 'Flight of the Firebirds,' Mr. O'Brien hosts a special podcast featuring juniors and seniors from Kellenberg. The students — Maggie, Christian, Sadie, Aiden, and Maya — share their diverse experiences and reasons for choosing Kellenberg. They discuss the sense of community, faith, and numerous opportunities that drew them to the school, along with their involvement in sports, cl...