During the 2018-19 school year, three of our Upper School teachers, Jessica Kolodetsky, Josh Moore, and Tonya Singleton, were chosen to receive The Barrett Family Foundation Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teacher Award.

Our faculty members represented three out of the twelve winners and our school represented one out of 49 schools from four counties who had teachers submit entries. Winners were selected based on recommendation letters from the school head, a colleague, a student, their resume and personal letter, and a 3-5 minute video.

Each of the winners was presented with a $10,000 tax-free cash award. In addition, Amy Smith, Farragut Upper School Mathematics Teacher and 2017-18 Winner, was a guest speaker at the event.

About the Award

The Barrett Family Foundation Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teacher Award was created in 2013 as a vehicle to award outstanding math and science high school teachers from private and public schools in Pinellas, Hillsborough, Pasco and Sarasota counties. Through this award, The Barrett Family Foundation proudly honors outstanding high school teachers who share their energy and enthusiasm for science or mathematics through creative and innovative methods. In total, The Barrett Family Foundation has awarded $270,000 to local high school math and science teachers and $30,000 to local high school’s math and science departments.

Meet Our Teachers

Jessica Kolodetsky, Upper School Mathematics

“During my past fifteen years of teaching and as the wife of a retired military sponsor, I have had the opportunity to teach multiple levels across five different states. This has provided me with a unique opportunity to teach a variety of students and share my passion for learning. As a lifelong learner, I am always looking for new innovative teaching methodologies to incorporate into my lessons. I truly believe that now is an exciting time to be a teacher, with the advancements in technology and current brain research on neurological connections, we have even more insight into how the brain learns. We know that new experiences can structurally and functionally change the brain by building connections only when we use teaching strategies that are most aligned with how the brain learns. I am constantly on the search for any new classes or professional development that allows me to be a more effective teacher.”

Mrs. Kolodetsky earned her B.S. in Administration in 2003 and her M.S.A. in Administration in 2005 from Central Michigan University. With the $10,000 award, she plans to continue schooling and earn her doctorate in administration.

Josh Moore, Upper School Mathematics

“Most teachers can attribute their passion for teaching to an inspirational teacher they themselves had during their general education. I am not one of those teachers. I was not a stellar student in my youth. I was the youngest in a family of high school dropouts. I was preceded in high school by an older brother that did not create the best reputation. Coming from a small town, by the time I reached high school the bar was set rather low for me by my teachers and parents. I was not expected to succeed, and I did not exceed those expectations. When I became the first person in my family to graduate high school, I assumed my academic ability was far lower than those of my college seeking peers. I had completed four years of high school and I never once had a teacher or counselor speak to me about the potential of college. As I’ve grown older, I’ve often wondered how different my life may have been if I had a teacher encourage or see some potential in me during these important formative years. This is something that I remember to this day and do my best to make sure every one of my students can see the potential they have before them.”

Mr. Moore earned his B.S. in Mathematics Education in 2015 from Saint Petersburg College and is currently in the process of earning his M.S. in Mathematical Sciences from the University of West Florida. With the $10,000 award, he plans to pay for his final year of his master’s program.

Tonya Singleton, Upper School Scuba

“Teaching was never part of my career plan, but thankfully that is where I am today. As a child growing up in the mountains of West Virginia all I wanted to do was study the ocean. After graduating from high school I attended college at Coastal Carolina University near Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. It was there I discovered my true passion of being under the water. Although, my major, at the time, was Marine Science I found my drive and curiosity was to understand the underwater more by being there myself. Ultimately, I decided to focus more on dive certifications and learning the physics and physiology of this mysterious world before devoting my life to something I didn’t know anything about. Once I discovered that this is where I should be, I transferred to the University of South Florida to study Environmental Science. During my senior year, I was lucky enough to receive an internship at the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission where eventually I accepted a job as a Biological Scientist. I then realized that I so enjoyed teaching my community and the public about our underwater world and this beautiful ecosystem for which we live. This is when I thought my life would better be spent teaching children about the underwater world, and no matter what, you can have a career that involves your passion. It is so rewarding to see how happy students are when they realize they can breathe underwater and face their fears. I tell them this is the closest thing to outer space I will ever get to because they are quite similar. You can accomplish goals in so many different ways no matter how long it takes.”

Mrs. Singleton earned her B.S. in Environmental Science and Policy in 2007 from the University of South Florida St. Petersburg. With the $10,000 award, she plans to help put a down payment on a new home for their family.

On December 11, 2018, the head of Farragut’s science department and biology teacher Sari Deitche was given a $995 Environmental Education grant by the Florida Association for Water Quality Control (FAWQC). This is the tenth year in a row that Mrs. Deitche has been awarded this grant.

FAWQC is an association of professionals dedicated to managing, improving, and protecting the quality of Florida’s waters. The FAWQC E2 Fund was established to promote environmental education and awards grants for environmental projects at Florida schools, civic or community organizations, and awards prizes at Florida science fairs. Over the past ten years, FAWQC has given out over $150,000 in grants to schools around the state. E2 Grants are awarded based on the proposed project’s overall environmental value as to:

• Fostering awareness and understanding of a water-related issue;
• Being cost effective;
• Basing the project on sound scientific principles;
• Promoting the involvement of students or citizens; and,
• Promoting enhancement of a water resource or associated habitat.

Mrs. Deitche was awarded the grant during her 3rd-period Biology 1 class by FAWQC president Scott Deitche and vice president Ilia Balcom. Farragut was one of 30 schools that applied for the grant and was in first place out of 12 schools that received the grant in 2018.

The project that Mrs. Deitche proposed to receive the grant is a continuation of the one she received the grant for in 2017. It will be used for an experiment, including all science classes in Lower to Upper School, to help them study and learn about the importance of mangrove habitats. Our students will be growing mangrove seedlings in different types of soils and different environments to see what works the best. This project will help our students have a better understanding of mangrove shorelines, how they filter the water, and their importance to Tampa Bay.

To learn more about this project, read the news article from December of 2017.

The holidays are coming up and we’ll all be searching for that perfect gift for our loved ones. With Amazon Smile, no matter what gift you find on Amazon.com this holiday season, you can give back to Farragut at the same time.

AmazonSmile is a simple and automatic way for you to support your favorite charitable organization every time you shop, at no cost to you. Just visit smile.amazon.com and choose Admiral Farragut Academy as your charitable organization!

It’s so much more than football or another reception… It’s coming together united for America and Admiral Farragut Academy.

The 2018 Army/Navy Alumni Weekend kicked off on Friday evening December 7th with a reception at the historic Union League Club of Philadelphia. Alumni came from near and far along with special guests including military leaders, business leaders, and celebrities to join in one of the premier Farragut events of the year.

The reception opened with guest of honor, RADM Mark “Buz” Buzby ‘75N, USN (Ret.), who spoke about how Farragut impacted his life and shaped his character that lead to an esteemed military career and life. RADM Buzby is currently the Administrator of the United States Maritime Administration. Buz reminded the attendees how Farragut stands apart from other college preparatory schools with its strong NJROTC program and outstanding core values that began in 1933 and are still relevant today. He expressed pride in the outstanding leaders Farragut produces and pointed out the fine men and women who have chosen to serve. It was an honor having Buz and his wife, Gina, join us.

Other notable guests included Col Bill Roberti, USA (Ret.), Col Glenn Mitchell ‘63N, MD, USA (Ret.), RADM Phil Sobeck, Director, 21st Century Sailor Office, who once commanded the USS Farragut and continues to be a huge supporter of the Academy, TV and film producer Joseph Zolfo ‘86N and his wife Carrie, and legendary actor George Hamilton whose son, George T. Hamilton, is a 2018 alumnus.

The true stars of the evening were the cadets and recent alumni including Regimental Commander Evan Schlifstein ‘19, Regimental Training Officer Ashton Raymer ‘20, cadet Tyler Turner ‘22, and cadet Alex Erwin ‘22. The cadets were honored to be a part of such a special event and to gain wisdom from speaking with alumni, an experience they will never forget. Additionally, many recent alumni attended including MIDN 3/C Trevor Benatti ‘17, USNA, MIDN 3/C Zachary Fine ‘17, Duke, MIDN 4/C Ethan Lipsky ‘18, USMMA, George Hamilton ‘18 and Chis Kosarzycki ‘17.

Alumni Director Victoria Raymer introduced a new tradition to the event, “Ring The Bell for Farragut”. The historic Class of 1966 engraved bell was displayed at the front of the room for alumni and friends to ring and share their Farragut stories and why they continue to support the Farragut legacy. The bell was rung throughout the evening by many alumni including Art Musicaro ‘73N, Board Chair Christian Wagner ‘82N, alumni parent George Hamilton, Sea Naval Officer USNA Zack Northcutt ‘09, alumni parent Al Benatti, alumni parent David Lipsky ‘75N, and Jeff Ogden ‘00. Heartfelt stories were shared with the common bond that unites generations of alumni. As a result of this new tradition, significant funds were raised for the Academy.

On Saturday, December 8th, Farragut alumni and friends attended the 119th America’s Game at Philadelphia’s Lincoln Financial Stadium. The march on the field is a long-standing tradition and an amazing sight to behold. The pomp and circumstance prior to the game are in many aspects more exciting than the game itself. Farragut alumnus and tech company owner Aquiles La Grave ‘98 and his wife, Megan, flew in from Colorado to attend what he described as, “a bucket list item”.

Before the game started a powerful opening prayer by Chaplain Col Matthew Pawlikowski of the USMA West Point stated, “Some wonder why we pray for a football game so I tell them in this game every player on the field is willing to die for every person watching.” It was quite the opening with the Commander in Chief conducting the official coin toss. Navy lost 17-10 in a closely contested defensive match-up. The game was not decided until the final minutes and all in attendance had a wonderful time.

The weekend represented more than just a football game or reception, it represented the best in our country and Admiral Farragut Academy. Dr. Lou Cona ‘73N summed it up best, “The weekend was just amazing. It was an honor to be in the presence of things that have always meant so much to me, friends and our young men and women who have chosen to serve. It doesn’t get better than that!”

Jenn and Jarrett Creacen-Crawford current Farragut family attended the game this year and shared, “Attending the Army/Navy game with our daughter (Sarah, 8th) was spectacular. As a first-year student, it gave her the opportunity to see the big picture of where her education and career can take her. To be amongst the cheering cadets of both the USMA and Naval Academy is an unforgettable experience. The sense of unified pride, patriotism, and comradery (regardless of who won) was moving. We will do it again next year and bring our other children for sure.”

We look forward to continuing this tradition next year on December 13 and 14, 2019, and hope many more alumni and friends of Farragut will plan to attend. If you are interested in reserving your place for this event please contact Alumni Director Victoria Raymer at 727-224-4332 or vraymer@farragut.org.

Gulf Beach Masonic Lodge No. 291 recognized Farragut Cadet Shyann LaPorte ’20 with the presentation of the ‘Steven M. Fetherman JROTC Excellence Award’ on November 29th at the Lodge’s Annual Awards Dinner. This award is presented to a JROTC student who excels academically, demonstrates strong leadership skills, and is active in the community and school.

Steven M. Fetherman was a Past Master of Gulf Beach Lodge and served in the United States Marine Corp from 1976-1982. Steve Fetherman exuded the ideals of the Marine Corp and was a proponent of helping young people better themselves by hard work and discipline. Steve Fetherman died unexpectedly this year at the age of 64, the members of the Masonic Lodge have created this award to honor his memory. Shyann was presented the award by Mrs. Kendra Fetherman, Steven’s widow.

Shyann is a junior and has earned the rank of Chief Petty Officer. She is the starting catcher for Farragut’s state champion softball team and is a catcher and a third baseman for the 18U Clearwater Bullets. She is most proud of her position this year as the unarmed drill team commander. Shyann takes part in the National Honor Society and holds a 4.4 GPA. She earned the 2018 FACA All-State Academic and All-State Athletic award. She offers her time volunteering at the VA Hospital assisting wounded warriors and at the Pinellas Hope center feeding the homeless. She also volunteers during her summers at the Pinellas Recreation Summer Camp. When she graduates in 2020, she hopes to attend the Air Force Academy.

With the introduction of new tax law this year, you may wonder how you will be impacted. For many taxpayers, the new tax law creates an opportunity in the form of increased disposable income. Here are the main takeaways of the 2018 law, along with some things to consider for charitable giving this year.

What’s New?

Income Tax Brackets
Whether you’re a single filer or a married person who files jointly, separately or as head of household, you will likely fall into a new tax bracket. The new law maintains seven tax brackets, but lowers rates for most brackets. The new brackets are: 10, 12, 22, 24, 32, 35 and 37 percent. Most taxpayers will see their tax rate decrease. A married couple with a combined income of $150,000, for example, will go from a 25 percent tax rate to 22 percent under the new law. You may be in a lower bracket this year and pay less taxes. You may now have an opportunity to give more to the charitable organizations you care about, such as Admiral Farragut Academy.

Higher Standard Deductions
The new law nearly doubles the standard deduction to $12,000 for single filers, $18,000 for heads of household, and $24,000 for joint filers. You may be less likely to itemize on your taxes and use the income tax charitable deduction. You may now have an incentive to give more to Farragut in one particular year over another to exceed the standard deduction and itemize your deductions.

Itemized Deductions
If you elect to itemize this year, your deductions may look a little different (though charitable deductions remain under the new law). Under the new plan, you will be able to deduct up to a total of $10,000 for state and local taxes. If you purchase a new home, there is now a cap on the mortgage interest deduction for the first $750,000 of debt on newly purchased homes.

Cash Charitable Contributions
The new law increases the limitation of 50 percent of your adjusted gross income (AGI) for donations by cash, check or credit card up to 60 percent. Higher net worth donors may want to consider increasing cash gifts.

Estate Tax Exemption
The threshold for triggering an estate gift or generation-skipping tax was raised to $11.18 million per person ($22.36 million for a married couple). Only an estimated 0.1 percent of estates will be subject to estate tax under the new law. (By comparison, the rates in 2017 were $5.49 million for individuals and $10.98 million for married couples.) If you have a high net worth, you may no longer anticipate being subject to estate tax and have an incentive to make larger gifts during your lifetime to obtain an income tax charitable deduction instead of waiting until after your lifetime.

What’s the Same?

Charitable Deductions
You will still be able to deduct your charitable contributions if you itemize your taxes.

Long-Term Capital Gains and Dividends
The tax rates on capital gains and dividends remain the same at 0, 15 and 20 percent, depending on your tax bracket.

Appreciated Property Charitable Contributions
The limitation on charitable gifts of long-term appreciated property to public charities will remain at 30 percent of your adjusted gross income. You can still carry over any excess for up to five additional years.

What Does This Mean for Me?

The lower tax brackets may mean that you are likely in a better financial position to help others this year. Here are three smart ways to be charitable as we close out the year.

1. Donate Appreciated Property. With these markets experiencing strong growth, consider a gift of appreciated property to Admiral Farragut Academy. You may qualify for an income tax charitable deduction and eliminate capital gains tax.
2. Name Admiral Farragut Academy as a Beneficiary of Retirement Plan Accounts. Assets in your IRA, 401(k), or other qualified retirement plan accounts remain subject to income tax when distributed to your heirs. If you name us as a beneficiary of all or part of your plan, your gift will pass to us tax-free.
3. Give from your IRA (If you are 70 ½ or older). Regardless of whether you itemize your taxes, this gift helps you fulfill your required minimum distribution and is not considered taxable income.

Need Help?

If you have questions, please contact Tony Sloan at 813-416-7202 or tsloan@farragut.org.  We’d be happy to help and can discuss how you can include your support of Admiral Farragut Academy as part of your year-end giving plan.

The weekend of October 12 & 13, 2018, eighteen schoolmates, wife’s & friends of RADM Mark “Buz” Buzby ‘75 gathered in Washington, DC to celebrate Buz’s more than 40+ years of service to his country beginning as a midshipman at the United States Merchant Marine Academy, Kings Point, NY in the summer of 1975.

The Class of 1975 has maintained an especially close relationship throughout the years and has come together on numerous occasions outside of Farragut Homecoming events to celebrate their friendship. At their 30th Reunion (2005) in St. Petersburg, 21 schoolmates showed up and witnessed Buz receiving his promotion to Rear Admiral U.S. Navy during the Homecoming Parade. Buzby chose to hold off his promotion ceremony until that time so he could share this achievement with the men he bent his first set of dress blues with at age 14, in Pine Beach. Since then, the class has found numerous reasons to come together many more times to share the bond. There was the commissioning of the USS Farragut DDG-99 in Mayport, Florida (2006), where Buzby also served as the Navy’s Senior Representative for the ship’s Commissioning Ceremony, or the joint 50th Birthday Celebration at classmate Rick Clegg’s Guanabana’s Restaurant, Jupiter, FL (2007).  In 2009, there was the Navy’s Change of Command Ceremony in Baltimore when Buz assumed Command – Military Sealift Command.  In 2013, the class gathered again at the Pine Beach campus’ “Farragut Rock Dedication Ceremony. There have also been many smaller get-togethers in between.

Aside from honoring Buzby, a highlight of this weekend was remembering departed classmates, faculty, and friends. Saturday morning, they gathered at Arlington National Cemetery to visit friends and mentors, Coach Stan Slaby and Captain Frederick N. Klein (Director of Activities and Naval Training). The final stop before visiting the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was at the grave of Vice Admiral Joel Thompson Boone (Medical Corp), Buz’s great-uncle. VADM Thompson is a descendant of Daniel Boone and was awarded the Medal of Honor during World War I for saving the lives of many wounded Marines in the battlefields of France. He later served in WWII and Korea. Aside from the MOH, Boone received numerous others awards making him the most highly decorated medical officer in the history of the United States.

 A prayer was said at each gravesite in the honor of the departed.

Saturday evening the group came together for a wonderful dinner at the District ChopHouse to not only pay tribute to Buzby but remember their seven classmates that have passed way too soon. Individual members of the class stood to read the name of their classmate, followed by a story they shared recollecting their friendship with that shipmate. Others followed with personal stories of their own. We remembered ~

• Kendal Thomas Capps III
• Arturo Alberto Diaz
• Donald James Kennedy
• Alan Mark Meola
• David Christopher Mingay
• John Teeko Scarney
• Robert Stanley Schneider

These men are forever missed and their memory lives on through our stories, gatherings and the laughter we share.

Featuring: CAPT David Isquith ’53, USN (RET); Morgan Underberg (Neuhoff) ’06; LT Blake Lusty ’09, USA; ENS Amanda Puckett ’12, USN; and LTJG Taylor Scott ’12, USN

CAPT David Isquith ’53, USN (RET)

“Thank you for the Fall 2018 issue of REVEILLE. There has been a massive change at Farragut, in facilities, events, programs, and opportunities since my late brothers (Alan & Robert) and I attended Farragut North. I almost wish that I had waited until Farragut South reached its present level before I enrolled. Of course, that was in the Class of 1953 and the tuition was $5,000/year per student, eggs were 26 cents a dozen, and Sam was the chief cook.

My wife Clare, owner of Global Adventures in Travel, LLC and a Virtuoso travel agent, recently put together a highly successful Columbia River cruise for a number of my U.S. Naval Academy ’57 classmates. One whom you may recall of special note – Class ’53, AFA South – is BGEN Charles Duke, USAF, the youngest astronaut to walk on the moon’s surface.

Charlie is on the left, with his wife Dorothy, in the attached photograph. Clare and I are in the center, and another Annapolis classmate, Dr. Brad Parkinson (COL, USAF (Ret)) – the reason we have GPS today – and his wife Ginny are on the right.

The other photo was taken at a resort gala on June 30, 2017, in celebration of Clare’s 80th birthday and our 60th anniversary. We were married the same month I graduated from Annapolis.

Again, I regret that I never took the opportunity to attend a reunion at Farragut North, with my brothers and Clare’s brothers, Daniel ’53 and Norman ’52, but my wife and I have visited and were very impressed with Farragut South.

Sincerely,
David Isquith ‘53N
CAPT, USN (Ret)”

Do you have news to share? Have you accomplished something big? Where are you today and what are you doing? Have you moved or changed emails or phone numbers? 

Submit an Alumni Update

Glow Party!

Lower School: PreK-7th Grade
Friday, January 11, 2019
6:00-8:00 p.m.
Farragut Gymnasium

UPDATE: ALL OF LOWER SCHOOL STUDENTS ARE INVITED!

All of Farragut enrolled PreK-7th-grade students and their parents(s) or guardian(s) are invited and may attend for FREE! The event will include light fare, refreshments, activities, dancing, and face painting.

Please note all attendees are required to have a parent/guardian chaperone.

RSVP’s ARE REQUIRED by Tuesday, Jan 8 to help our Parents’ Group prepare the right amount of food and activity supplies.

This event is organized and sponsored by the Admiral Farragut Academy Parents’ Group and event chair Lanie Salebra.

Final results and recap for athletic teams that ended in the Fall season of the 2018-19 school year.

Volleyball:  Volleyball continued to make strides as an overall program from Middle School to Varsity. The team participated in the Panther Volleyball Showcase, winning the Bronze bracket, by defeating Southeast and Gulf Coast Heat. On Senior Night the girls celebrated a big win over Brooks Debartolo. The girls had record numbers this year, worked hard, and got better every day. We are proud of the way they progressed and are excited for next year.

Swimming and Diving:  The Farragut boys and girls swim team had an outstanding season. They all worked exceedingly hard, trusted the process and ended up with many personal bests throughout their time in the pool. The girl’s team ended with a 6-2 record and the boy’s team ended with a 4-3-1 record. Our team competed in districts, having five swimmers move on to regionals, and Jillian Aprile moved on to place in the state championship. The coaching staff is extremely proud of everyone and is looking forward to next season! Go BlueJackets!

Cross Country: Farragut Cross Country had a great season. The boy’s team won the Districts, finished 3rd in the Region, and placed 5th in the State! Philip Henderson placed 10th at States, as well as, won the overall District. Alex Fiorillo competed in the FACA All-Star Classic in Lakeland. During the regular season, these accolades also occurred: St. Petersburg City Championships 3rd, Dunedin Invite 3rd, Mitchell Invite 3rd, Bradenton Invite 5th, and the Big Pirate Invite 1st. The Boys JV team also had success with the St. Petersburg City Championships 2nd, and the Pirate Invite 4th.

For the girl’s team, Saria Oi had a great season finishing 5th at Districts and moved onto the Regional Meet in Gainesville. She also finished: 2nd in the Pirate invite, 5th at the St. Petersburg City Championships, and 6th at the Bradenton Invite.

Golf: The Farragut Golf Team had a great season. At practice, the boys worked hard every day and improved tremendously as the season progressed. The BlueJackets were in mid-season form by September; defeating Indian Rocks Christian and Shorecrest in back to back matches. The teams mid-season push is largely due to senior leadership from Eiki Matsuyoshi and Evan Schlifstein. Uriah Jenkins and Kyle Smith were both stellar all season for the BlueJackets. In practice, they pushed one another to compete at their best. Following a successful regular season campaign, Uriah and Kyle posted respectable numbers at the District Championship, good enough to qualify for the 2018 Regional Championship! The boys played some great golf but narrowly missed the cut to advance to the State Final. Both Uriah and Kyle will return for the 2019 season.

Football:  Farragut Football had a historic year capturing the 2A Region 3 Championship. On their path to the title game, they finished the regular season with an 8-1 record, with convincing victories over Indian Rocks Christian, Northside Christian, and St. Pete Catholic. This helped the Football team earn the number one seed in Region 3, as well as, a first-round bye. In the State Series, they defeated Cambridge Christian 40-14 as well as Seffner Christian Academy 20-7 for the Region Championship. They fell a little short in the State Semifinal game against Champagnat Catholic 20-24, finishing 10-2.  After the season, players received individual accolades: Psaveon Reaves was named FACA District 14 2A Player of the Year, Lorenzo Valencia and Psaveon Reaves were chosen to play in the Florida Athletic Coaches Association All-Star Classic, Nick Manhertz was chosen to play in the Pinellas County All-Star Game.

Please join the Aviation department in congratulating Alex Oi Moreno ’19 on earning his solo endorsement. Alex flew solo for the first time on November 13, 2018, in a Cessna 172 N54067 at Albert Whitted airport on runway 18.

Planes have always interested Alex, who is a 7-day boarder from Nagoya, Japan. He wasn’t sure at first whether aviation was the right choice for him, but after joining the program with some friends, he now loves it.

Alex has been at Farragut since the 8th grade and has been in the aviation program since his sophomore year. Still, he was nervous his first time flying alone.

“When my flight instructor stepped out of the plane his first words were ‘don’t mess up’,” Alex recalled with a laugh. “The first landing was nerve-wracking, but after that, I knew what I was doing so I felt much more confident.”

“It’s cool to get a chance to fly in high school,” he continued. “Not many kids do. There’s not much opportunity for that back home in Japan. I always have friends from home text me and tell me they’re jealous I get to fly when they have to wait till they graduate and come to the US.”

At Farragut, Alex is involved in cross country, soccer, track, student government, and he is the president of the math club. He has been accepted to Jacksonville University, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, and Lynn University. He plans to major in Aeronautical Science with the goal of becoming a commercial airline pilot.

“I love being in the air,” Alex said. “Farragut has such a rigorous program, but when you’re in the air, it takes away all the stress and worries about homework and academics. It’s very freeing.”

Please join the Aviation department in congratulating Eiki “Luke” Matsuyoshi ’19 on earning his solo endorsement. Luke flew solo for the first time on Saturday, December 8 at Albert Whitted airport in a Cessna 172SP, tail number N6013J, on runway 18.

Luke is a 7-day boarder from Tokyo, Japan. He grew up around planes, with several family members who were part of the aviation career, and he’s always wanted to be a pilot.

There were a lot of firsts when Luke flew solo. “It was windy that day,” he said. “When I took off, the Air Traffic Controller (ATC) told me the wind shear was happening, which I’d never experienced. I was on a runway I didn’t normally use, and it was a little confusing, but the ATC helped me step by step and I landed.”

“It felt weird,” he continued. “The aircraft was very light, and I was the only one there, so I was nervous.”

At Farragut, Luke is involved in golf, soccer, drone club, yearbook, and he is president of the photography club. His outside hobbies include surfing and Japanese martial arts. He has applied to Embry-Riddle Aeronautical College, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, and a few other colleges in California. His goal is to become a commercial airline pilot.

“I love seeing a bird eye view of the world,” he said. “I fly drones, but that’s different because you’re on the ground. You’re looking at it through a camera. But when you’re in a plane, you’re seeing it for real.”

Completion of Farragut’s new multi-purpose performing arts building, DeSeta Hall, has surprisingly little to do with floor plans, concrete or steel to the people who have invested in its construction. It’s all about the students who will benefit from the Academy’s state-of-the-art facility once the project is finished in the fall of 2019.

“Everything’s running on schedule and that’s great news for our students,” said Ed DeSeta, Farragut Class of 1967 and donor to the project whose family name will adorn the new building.

Construction is moving the way it is supposed to, and it is anticipated on schedule. Interior work continues. Irrigation and sod will be installed around the new building. Duke Energy installed new lighting. Asphalt is also being poured on the new parking lot. Auditorium seating is being put into place.

“True completion, however, occurs when our students begin using it next fall,” said Tony Sloan, Farragut’s Chief Development Officer.

There’s an opportunity for a sneak preview of the massive new structure when the Farragut Parents’ Group hosts their fundraising gala there, “Reach for the Stars” held on Saturday, April 6, 2019. The event will feature exciting performances by speed painter Michael Israel.

Meanwhile, fundraising will continue throughout the spring and summer with a campaign completion celebration scheduled for October. Funds are still needed for interior finishing, furnishings, and equipment. There are a number of naming opportunities still available. Click here to make a gift or email Tony Sloan at tsloan@farragut.org.

It is with great pleasure that we introduce the Regimental Leadership Staff for the 2nd semester of the 2018-19 school year.

The following cadets are promoted to the position and rank:

• Regimental Commander: CCDR Valentina Galiano
• Regimental Chief of Staff: CLCDR Alex Oi
• Regimental Operations Officer: CLTJG Fernando Robalino
• Regimental Administration Officer: CLTJG Amy Xu
• Regimental Public Affairs Officer: CPO3 Diana Romanovskaya
• Regimental Logistics Officer: CLTJG Ty Ulevich
• Regimental Ordnance Officer: CCPO Jenna Willard
• Regimental Supply Officer: CPO2 Vladimir Poliak
• Regimental Training Officer: CLTJG Maya Cooney
• Regimental Adjutant: CLT Stephen Smiley
• Alpha Battalion Commander: CLTJG Alexis Hernandez
• Alpha Battalion Executive Officer: CLTJG Josiah Davis-Brown
• Bravo Battalion Commander: CLCDR Gianni DeFelice
• Bravo Battalion Executive Officer: CCPO Haley Saylor
• Charlie Battalion Commander CLTJG Shyann Laporte:
• Charlie Battalion Executive Officer: CLTJG Ashton Raymer

An Interview with 2018-19 2nd Semester Regimental Commander Valentina Fornaro Galliano ‘19

Valentina is an international student from Argentina and has attended Farragut since the 8th grade.

What does this leadership role mean to you?

It’s something that I’ve always wanted. When I first started at Farragut I saw the Regimental Commander during a parade and I told my mom, “I’m gonna be standing there one day.” Now that I’m here, I know it’s more than just being up there in front of everyone. I understand the importance of the role and the responsibility that comes with it. But what’s even more important is that it was my ultimate goal, and it’s a goal that I achieved.

What do you hope to accomplish this upcoming semester?

I’ve always had a focus on boarding life. It’s important to me because Farragut is my home. I really want to start getting the other students involved, not because they’re required to be, but because they want to be. I also want to bring back the level of respect for commanding officers that I remember from my 8th-grade year, and make sure that everyone is doing their job and getting stuff done.

How did you feel when you found out you would be the new Regimental Commander?

We found out at a formation where they announced promotions from the bottom up, and I kept not hearing my name. I was trying not to get too excited, but then it actually happened. It was a goal that was so important to me. My grandfather was in the military in Argentina in the days when serving was mandatory, and it was a tough military then. The fact that I can stand tall at graduation and show him that I did something important with my time here really makes it worth it.

How has your time at Farragut prepared you for this leadership role?

I know that once people get to college, a lot of people have a tough time because of time management or not being able to handle everything that’s on their plate. Farragut has prepared me for that. It’s taught me how to delegate and how to work in a team. It’s tough to work in a team because you have to trust that the other person is going to get stuff done, but Farragut has helped me with that. It’s also helped me understand that while people may not have the best reaction, you have to let it roll off of you and get stuff done anyway.

What is your goal for college and for a career?

I’m currently going through the recruitment process to play soccer at the college level. I’m planning to study business and maybe aviation in college, and my ultimate goal is to create my own business.

An Interview with 2018-19 1st Semester Regimental Commander Evan Schlifstein ’19

Evan has attended Farragut since the 4th grade and is a former day student from St. Petersburg who moved onto campus this past year as a boarder since earning his recent leadership role.

What words of advice would you give Valentina as you complete the Change of Command?

Don’t get frustrated. You’ll start out with all of these goals and you have these benchmarks and you have the right people in the right positions, but sometimes it doesn’t happen, and it can be frustrating. But part of the position is being able to get over that frustration, whether it’s finding solutions or going down a different pathway. You just have to roll with the punches.

How did being the Regimental Commander impact you as a person and as a leader for your future?

I’ve been at Farragut for nine years now, and this past semester has been the most impactful of my life. Being a 7-day boarder, being Regimental Commander, or even just being an officer and leader in general at this school, has taught me a sense of integrity that I never imagined I’d have. When you’re living on campus 24/7 with the people you’re trying to lead, you have to act properly or else you lose their respect so easily. You have to be on top of your game, following rules, no matter what, because how can you expect people to respect the rules if you don’t?

What was your biggest accomplishment last semester as Regimental Commander?

I think our biggest accomplishment was getting a steady officer base. I’m really proud to say that we have the right people for the job in the right positions. I’ve had the best people I could ever ask for working under me. The second biggest accomplishment is that we’ve grown the morale of the regiment and the respect our students have for the naval aspect of the school. We’ve managed to inspire others to strive for leadership positions and to show the rest why we wear the uniform and why we’re proud of what we do.

What is your goal for college and for a career?

I’ve applied to the Naval Academy as my first choice, the Air Force Academy as my second, and if neither of those pan out just something with ROTC. I want to become a pilot, and then eventually a doctor in the Navy.

On Friday, January 11, 2019, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. in the Farragut Gymnasium, Lower School students ages PreK-7th grade and their parents glowed bright!

The event included light fare, refreshments, glow item giveaways, a glow in the dark photo booth, music and dancing provided by DJ Rob Snyder, hula hoop and limbo contests, face painting, and a glow in the dark cotton candy machine.

The event was organized and sponsored by the Admiral Farragut Academy Parents’ Group and event chair Lanie Salebra. We would like to thank all of our parent volunteers who planned and set up the event and all of our Lower School faculty and staff for helping run the event and clean up afterward. It would not have been possible without all of the teamwork!

“Reach for the Stars” will be the first time Admiral Farragut Academy will open its doors to the new performing arts building, DeSeta Hall! Expect to be surprised, delighted, and over-the-moon when you see this amazing space and witness art-in-concert by famous speed painter Michael Israel. Mark your calendars to join us on Saturday, April 6, 2019, from 6:30-10:30 p.m. Purchase sponsorships and tickets at www.farragut.org/RFTS.

Questions about Reach for the Stars? Check out these frequently asked questions about the event.

Why does the Parents’ Group host a fundraising event every year?

For 20 years the Parents’ Group, which consists solely of Admiral Farragut Academy parent volunteers, has raised funds to pay for additional school needs that are not allocated in the school’s budget. Recent projects that were funded include buying a school van, resurfacing the tennis courts, installing filtered-water stations, adding sun shades at the playground, and much more! This group is a vital part of annual school improvements and they raise funds through large events including the Golf Tournament hosted in fall and the Annual Auction hosted in spring.

Who is Michael Israel?

This year the Parents’ Group has partnered with Michael Israel, a world-renowned American artist, entertainer, speaker, and humanitarian famous for “Speed Painting” performances and inspiring compassion and support for many charities including the Special Olympics, Make-A-Wish, Komen Breast Cancer, and Ronald McDonald House Charities. He has shared the limelight with celebrities, CEOs of Fortune 500 companies, and world leaders alike painting at prestigious venues including Grimaldi Forum in Monte Carlo, the Olympic Medals stage in Salt Lake with Brooks & Dunn, the Berkshire Hathaway Shareholders Meeting with Warren Buffett, and Presidential events in Washington, DC. | Watch this video. “Michael’s audience must only be present to be drawn in, engaged and energized. His live action painting viscerally makes the connection between music, art, and the viewer’s heart – there are audible gasps as he works his magic, passing energy back and forth with the cheering crowd during an experience they will remember the rest of their lives!”

Why “Reach for the Stars” theme?

As you know Admiral Farragut Academy offers an array of opportunities that most private boarding and day schools do not. With two graduates who have walked on the moon and course offerings from scuba to aviation, Farragut is proud to offer our students the opportunity to quite literally “Reach for the Stars”.

What will the silent and live auctions include?

There will be opportunities to silently bid on items like parking spots, class projects and experiential events. The live auction will focus on paddle raises for STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Mathematics) projects and special experiences similar to last year. In addition, Michael Israel will put on an impressive performance as you witness art-in-concert which will be available for live bidding. There will be items for all budgets and a variety of paintings and artwork to choose from. All proceeds will go to the Parents’ Group and Admiral Farragut Academy.

Who is invited and welcome to attend?

As always all Farragut families and supporters are invited and encouraged to attend but we hope you also extend the invite to your friends, family, neighbors, employers, employees, and more too! With an exciting artist like Michael Israel, we are inviting the community-at-large including art enthusiasts, politicians, corporations, Farragut friends and family, and more. Please note this event is 21 and up.

What are the ticketing prices and sponsorship levels?

The Unforgettable Universe $10,000

• 12 tickets
• Reserved premier seating during the performance
• VIP area with private top-shelf open bar
• Private attendants during the entire event
• Plated heavy hors d’oeuvres and dessert
• 6 special gifts
• Private cocktail reception with Michael Israel and George Hamilton
• Corporate or individual recognition during the event, a retractable pop-up banner for display during the event and to keep afterward, listing on Farragut website, featured on Farragut social media, and in Farragut’s online (website) and print (biannual magazine) business directory for one year

The Glorious Galaxy $5,000

• 8 tickets
• Reserved priority seating during the performance
• VIP area with private top-shelf open bar
• Plated heavy hors d’oeuvres and dessert
• 4 special gifts
• Meet and greet with Michael Israel and George Hamilton
• Corporate or individual recognition during the event, listing on Farragut website, featured on Farragut social media, and in Farragut’s online (website) and print (biannual magazine) business directory for one year

The Shooting Stars $2,500

• 4 tickets
• Reserved seating during the performance
• Top-shelf open bar
• Plated heavy hors d’oeuvres and dessert
• 2 special gifts
• Meet and greet with Michael Israel and George Hamilton
• Corporate or individual recognition during the event

Individual Ticket $150

• 1 ticket which includes heavy hors-d’oeuvres, dessert, and open bar

Can I submit a charitable donation?

Yes of course! We are also open to opportunities for corporate partnerships and sponsorships. Admiral Farragut Academy is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and donations are tax deductible. Tax ID# 59-3038365

How can you be involved and/or support the auction?

Are you connected to major players or companies in our community? Do you want to work with your child’s grade to create the class project? Do you want to help set up and decorate prior to the event? The Parents’ Group President Marjorie Deskovich is in the process of forming committees and would love to find a fit for you based on your skill sets and area of interest. Please email parentsgroup@farragut2.org or call 727-384-5500 ext 266.

Register for “Reach for the Stars”

Please join the Aviation department in congratulating Luis Eraso on earning his Private Pilot Certificate. Luis passed his Private pilot practical test on Thursday, December 20, 2018, at Winter Haven airport. The examiner commented that it was the best Private Pilot check ride he had ever done.

Luis, a 7-day boarding senior from Venezuela, has been a Farragut student for two years, but he’s been around aviation for much longer. Both of his parents are pilots, and the year before he entered Farragut he earned his solo endorsement through a summer program at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. He has fond memories of his first solo flight.

“It didn’t really hit me until I was in the air already that I was alone,” he said. “It was a great feeling. I’ll never forget it”

He chose Farragut for its aviation program.

“When I heard about Farragut’s aviation program, I was captivated,” he said. “There was this school you can go and get your private license. It’s amazing.”

“This school is perfect for flying,” he continued. “I wouldn’t have gotten my license this early in my life if I hadn’t gone to Farragut. There are so many opportunities here, so many people here to help you and you make lifelong relationships.”

Luis now gets to fly twice a week in his aviation classes at Farragut, and sometimes gets to fly at home in Venezuela as well. He’s been working on his certificate for the past school year.

“The toughest part of it was the theory,” he said. “Memorizing the regulations, the airspace, flight plans, paperwork, and getting to know the system. It’s very complex and you never really fully understand it. But it’s worth it. Flying is so cool. Knowing that you can go where you want is the best feeling ever. It’s freedom. You own the sky.”

“Over the course of the past year and a half, Luis has become a very accomplished pilot,” said Rob Ewing, the director of the Aviation program at Farragut. “He understands the immense responsibility that comes with having a pilot certificate. I have no doubt that he will have an extremely successful aviation career. It is always a pleasure to fly with excellent pilots and Luis is certainly one.”

Outside of aviation, Luis enjoys Farragut’s opportunities for sailing, swimming, track, and scuba. He also has a hobby of building and flying RC planes on the football field. He has some advice for aspiring pilots.

“It’s a great career and there are so many doors into the aviation world,” Luis said. “So just go for it!”

Luis is planning on attending an aerospace engineering college in Spain. “I want to be a pilot for anything. It could be military, commercial, or cargo planes, but I just really want to fly.”

At Farragut, our students don’t just excel, they soar. Check out this story from Spectrum Bay News 9 about our amazing Aviation program!