Susan Otec Barbagallo

Wow a lot can happen in 30 years and to put it down on paper..... Let's hit the highlights. Right out of high school I went to work for Mercantile Bank, which, ten years ago was sold to US Bank. And much to my liking I am STILL working for the bank (30 years - what an accomplishment). I have managed to move up in the ranks and went from an Administrative Assistant to an AVP managing a group of people. (not bad for not having a college degree) I sincerely enjoy my job and actually look forward to going to work (sounds sick....but when retirement comes around, I'm sure I'll be ready). I married my high school sweetheart, Mike Barbagallo in 1982. We had two BEAUTIFUL boys, Joshua and Jonathan (now 19 and 21 years old). We provided a good life for our boys and still do, however, we are no longer together. I am now divorced (I hate that "D" word) and almost cringe typing it...but it is what it is. So for the last five years I have been experiencing what I missed out doing while I was in High School....and that is dating. I almost feel like I am back in high school.....I said ALMOST. I actually met up with an old aquaintance and have been dating (and actually engaged) with no arranged date. Oh, and before I forget...LA LA LA LA LA.....my love for signing hasn't changed. I still cantor for two Catholic Church's as well as singing for weddings. I wasn't able to make it famous by being the "Wedding Singer" BUT.....what I can now add to my resume is I have been singing with a band (EXIT 180). Yeah, yeah, yeah..that's the Pevely exit. Not necessarily where I am from but the other lead vocal IS from Pevely. The name Exit 180 not necessarily describes where we are from but who we are as a band. We are so "180" from each other. You'll have to check out our website (exit180theband.com). Talk about fun....and keeping me young.....WOOH! Still loving life, loving my boys and loving being a mom.

OMG....what I remember about high school. They say the eye sight is the first thing to go, or was that the memory?!?!? So does that tell you what I remember about high school? That was 30 years ago.....30 years. Doesn't even seem possible. What I do recall is that we were a small group of kids that had clicks, much like today I am guessing. I wasn't in one of the more popular clicks. I didn't date (not because I didn't want to but because no one ever asked me out - BARRY GOVERO - I'm not bitter). He was the love of my life....so I thought. What did I know, I was only 17..... I do know that I met a number of wonderful people and have maintained several of those relationships. High School was a stepping stone to help form the foundation of my life. God has been good to me. My religious background at St. Pius, along with the support of my wonderful parents and siblings have afforded me the beautiful life I live. To all of you that have touched my life, I thank you.