August 2009 Hi Everybody, On Wednesday, August 12, 2009 I drove down to Peekskill to see what was happening at the Peekskill Middle School, (formerly Peekskill High School). I am sad to report that demolition has begun on our beloved school. There is a fence to keep unauthorized personnel out, but I found a gate opened and proceeded to trespass on the property anyway. I took several pictures from the outside. The building is still standing but windows have been removed, and some of the outer walls have been taken down. I said to myself, "I'm this far, I might as well try to see what is going on inside". The front doors were open, so I stepped inside the lobby area. All of the frescoes have been removed and there is a lot of debris everywhere. After taking some pictures I was politely approached by a worker who asked if he could help me. I told him I was a graduate of the school and that I was just there to take some pictures. He told me that the work has been very slow going, and he said I couldn't stay for safety reasons. I thanked him and left. I will not post the photos I took. I think we want to remember our high school the way it was fifty years ago. See you all at the reunion. Take care of yourselves and travel safe . Sal Carano June 21, 2008 Hi Everybody, As some of you may know, our beloved Peekskill High School (now the Peekskill Middle School) will be torn down either at the end of this year or the middle of 2009. It could be longer because of some construction issues with the new building. The old building will not be demolished until the new one is completed. I heard about the plan to build a new Middle School and tear down the old a couple of years ago. Construction of the new building has been under way for some time now. Progress is slow but steady and you wouldn't believe the changes that are taking place. Not just on Ringold Street, but you wouldn't recognize the property from Washington Street. Early this year, I wrote to the Superintendent of Schools requesting permission to take pictures of the interior of the building. I made two separate visits. One in March and one in May. I had full access to all areas except the swimming pool. I took lots of photos on both trips and when you see them, I know they will bring back a lot of memories. I've only attached 24 for Mike to post on the website....You'll all have to come to the 50th Reunion to see the rest. It was a rather emotional experience walking those halls and taking these photos. Seeing how the building has aged and knowing that it will all be gone before long. I hope these pictures will bring back happy memories to all of you. I will have them mounted (along with many others) and displayed for our 50th Anniversary Celebration! I hope to see you all there! Take care of yourselves. Sal Carano