Golden and I Knew It

Golden and I Knew It

After a two-year stint as a rookie teacher at a small and new Catholic high school in northern New Jersey, I left the job for economic and personal reasons. The economics reflected starting a family (my wife ceased to work as a new mother). The personal involved doubts about my chosen profession.

Because of a confluence of circumstances, I had been made English Department Chairman. I was given this position simply because I was the first of the new English teachers hired to staff the school, where I taught junior and senior English. Fresh out of college, I felt out of my depth as an educator. I had to design a curriculum, assign classes, and select and order textbooks, all without a veteran teacher or mentor as a sounding board. Lacking any frame of reference, I felt relieved when I had to leave.

After two subsequent years as the world’s worst salesman (tires), I realized that although I was raw and uneven in my teaching, my future lay in education. What I needed, I determined, was further experience in the company of other teachers who could provide answers to questions that mattered in the day-to-day life of an educator.

The opportunity to reenter teaching presented itself in 1972 when an opening occurred at West Side Central Catholic (soon to be renamed Bishop O’Reilly) High School in Kingston, Pennsylvania. I took the position full of doubts and reservations, but determined to learn, once and for all, if time and circumstance could make a difference. It was to be a turning point in my life, both professionally and personally.

My first impression of the students was impressive. They seemed to move through the day with an ease and maturity untypical for teenagers. While they certainly dealt with the universal and eternal concerns of peer acceptance, self-image and increasing autonomy, they nevertheless demonstrated a congenial symbiosis with teachers and administrators, and exhibited a genuine sense of belonging to their school. In general, they looked comfortable and content in their demeanor. There were cliques, for sure, but no real distinct separation. Jocks were in the glee club and in plays, while National Honor Society students played sports and joined homecoming committees. With rare exceptions, they respected their teachers, and looked upon them as professionals who cared about their academic and personal development.

I always considered them as guests in my classroom. As their host, I both extended and received a respect that permeated our discussions and interactions. Even their gentle mockery of the faculty belied a palpable esteem. I remember student-generated and circulated comic books that poked fun at teachers who, they alleged, were hiding in plain sight as superheroes. One history teacher in particular was presented as Captain Coma, who wore a cape with a huge C in its center. Captain Coma once saved children from escaping tigers and lions at a zoo by lecturing them until they fell into comas in mid rampage.

We had our share of miscreants over the years, but they usually didn’t last long in the school’s family ambience. They were looked upon as odd or pitiful by the majority of students, alongside whom they stood out in marked contrast. While my rose-colored glasses of retirement have not obscured the undercurrent of experimentation that colors teenagers of all eras, the reality is that such activity rarely breached the surface of student life in any blatant or consistent fashion. Perhaps strong family bonds were part of that equation. At any rate, a positive student demeanor and deportment evidenced itself in an excellent academic and social environment.

Perhaps the best example of the school’s warmth and vitality can be seen in its addition of an educational program for special-needs students during its later years. Essentially a school within a school, its curriculum was geared to the needs of these students, although there was some overlap in some other courses, such as computer classes. These students also shared the cafeteria, attended pep rallies and frequented sporting events. If the idea was to have such students get used to mainstream society, it accomplished considerably more. As I stood at my classroom door during change of classes, I often witnessed my students making casual conversation with these special adolescents, high-fiving them and asking about their classes. In the final analysis, I don’t know which group learned more about life and love in those interactions.

The teachers were of two types: generally older nuns from several orders (their percentage of the faculty had begun to decline as vocations ebbed after Vatican II), and generally younger lay teachers. Initially, the sisters seemed to tolerate us as unfortunately necessary components of the teaching staff. Over the years I spent at the school, the ratio of sisters to lay teachers tilted quickly. By the end of the school’s existence, one nun was on staff as a librarian. Lay teachers were generally in their twenties in the early 70’s, and graduates of local colleges and residents of surrounding communities.

Because Catholic schools were exempt from state/federal educational policies and regulations, and the religious staff generally left us to our own resources, we were able to pursue teaching in a purely practical and innovative fashion. We weren’t bogged down in a morass of state standards, promulgated by faceless bureaucratic “experts” who couldn’t find the inside of a classroom with a map and a flashlight.

Consequently, we relied upon one another to build and implement teaching methods and strategy. Aside from periodic (and generally inconsequential) teacher meetings conducted by the administration, we discussed our mutual concerns informally – in the faculty lounge, local taverns, at holiday “progressive parties,” and end-of-the-year picnic outings. Because we shared our approaches and discussed our failures and successes, we grew and prospered as a faculty. The result created an exceptional educational experience for teachers and students alike. During the four decades I spent at Central Catholic/Bishop O’Reilly, graduating seniors merited college acceptance in the 90th percentile range and millions of dollars in scholarship offers.

At the risk of sounding hyperbolic, I found teaching at Central/O’Reilly to be almost magical. The work was both hard and time-consuming, but the classroom experience made those considerations more than worthwhile. Very often the change-of-class bell interrupted a class discussion that neither students nor teacher wanted to end. Because many teachers volunteered their time to chaperone after-school activities, we got to know students, and to be known by them, in an added dimension. Teachers in charge of a student club or activity had merely to ask their colleagues to assist at an event. Proms, all-night dance marathons, plays and concerts all provided teacher-student interaction outside the classroom. Weekly free tutoring at the school in multi-disciplinary areas during early evening hours also offered opportunities to foster mutual understanding and respect.

In retrospect, the number of second-generation students whose parents I had taught offers confirmation of the value afforded the school. At report card nights, parents often related their desire to have their children share their high school experience. It is noteworthy that we also taught many students whose parents were public school teachers and administrators. Perhaps the most telling and gratifying indication that we were doing worthwhile work can be seen in the number of graduates who returned to the school as new educators and became valued colleagues of their former teachers.

The time and distance afforded by retirement has deepened my appreciation for being able to participate in such an extraordinary time and place. It is a source of immense satisfaction that the school’s traditions and accomplishments endure in the memories of her graduates and will be passed on to their children and grandchildren. I suppose that line from the Alma Mater had it right: West Side Central Catholic/Bishop O’Reilly will “live on in glory” in the hearts and minds of everyone lucky enough to be associated with that incredibly fulfilling educational institution. Not only is that time a “golden age” in memory, it carried with it a golden aura each day I walked those halls, and for that I will always be grateful.


Jim Lynch
Fleetwood, PA
April 10, 2012
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This is a guest posting by Jim Lynch to the Bishop O'Reilly Class of '77 Weblog. If you'd like to provide any feedback to Mr. Lynch, he can be reached at jimadalynch(at)gmail.com. You'll need to fix that email to use it, by substituting the @ symbol for the (at) characters.

Eugene D. Hogan

I just got this information from Maryellen Cusma who told me that Gene Hogan passed away yesterday after a month-long illness. These are the only details available in the Times Leader. I'll post more details when they become available.


Eugene (Gene) D. Hogan, 53, Plymouth, died Sunday, March 4, 2012, in Kindred Wyoming Valley, Wilkes-Barre. Born March 4, 1959, he was the son of Eleanor Vaselin Hogan and the late Eugene Hogan. He was a graduate of Bishop O'Reilly High School, Kingston, class of 1977, and attended Luzerne County Community College. He worked alongside his father at the Bull Run Garage, Plymouth, and eventually becoming proprietor of Bull Run Garage-Sunoco. He was a member of All Saints Parish, Plymouth. He was a former Plymouth Borough controller and councilman. He served as Plymouth Borough Democratic Party Vice-Chairman for the past five years. He was a Democratic Committeeman from 1988.

Preceded in death was his father, Eugene Hogan, May 13, 2007. Surviving, besides his mother, are his wife of 18 years, the former Helene Simonds; brothers, Robert (Jeanne), Shavertown; John (Lisa), Shickshinny; Patrick (Michelle), Shavertown; and Kevin, Kingston; sister, Nancy Snyder, Plymouth; numerous nieces and nephews. A funeral will be held Wednesday, 9:30 a.m. in Kielty-Moran Funeral Home Inc., 87 Washington Ave., Plymouth, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. in All Saints Parish, Willow St., Plymouth. The Rev. Robert Kelleher will officiate. Interment will be in St. Vincent de Paul Cemetery, Larksville. Friends may call Tuesday, from 5 to 8 p.m., in the funeral home.

Joseph Hometchko

Joseph Hometchko


February 12, 2012

Joseph Hometchko, 89, a former resident of Swoyersville, passed away on Sunday afternoon, February 12, 2012, in the Bay Pines Veterans Hospital, Seminole, Fla. His beloved wife was the late Helen J. (Kender) Hometchko, who passed away on October 8, 2007.

Together, Joseph and Helen shared 60 beautiful years of marriage. Born on June 16, 1922, in Luzerne, Joseph was a son of the late John and Julia Hometchko. Joseph was raised in Swoyersville and had resided there most of his life. He was a graduate of the former Swoyersville High School, class of 1941. After Helen's passing, Joseph moved to Largo, Florida, to be closer to his family. A U.S. Army veteran, Joseph honorably served his country during World War II with the 90th Infantry, 1st Battalion, 358th Regiment of Patton's 3rd Army. On June 6, 1944, he landed on Normandy Beach in the D-Day Invasion. Joseph was also involved in the Battle of the Bulge and was decorated with the Purple Heart, the Bronze Star and many battle ribbons. Upon his honorable discharge on October 27, 1945, he attained the rank of Private 1st Class.

Prior to his retirement, Joseph was employed by the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Wilkes-Barre. In his earlier years, he was employed in the local garment industry. Joseph was a faithful member of Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Church, Swoyersville. A proud veteran, he continuously held membership with the Veterans of Foreign Wars. He and his late wife, Helen, were both members of the Swoyersville Senior Citizens Club. They always enjoyed their regular trips to Atlantic City with the senior citizens. In addition to his parents, John and Julia Hometchko; and his wife, Helen, Joseph was preceded in death by his brothers, John, George, Peter, William and Michael; his sisters, Mary, Anna and Marie. Joseph is survived by his sons, David Hometchko and his wife, Bonnie, Charlotte, N.C.; Joseph Hometchko and his wife, Ann, Largo, Fla.; Richard Hometchko and his wife, Susan, Largo, Fla.; grandchildren, Michael Hometchko, Victoria Tomberlin and her husband, Jerry; Kendra Hometchko, Rileigh Hometchko, and Ashley Chase; great-granddaughter, Londynn Victoria Tomberlin; numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial, which will be celebrated on Saturday at 11 a.m. in Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Church, 116 Hughes St., Swoyersville, with the Rev. Edward P. Lyman, officiating. Interment with the Rite of Committal will follow in Holy Trinity Cemetery, Swoyersville, where Military Honors will be accorded by the United States Army. There will be no public calling hours. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the care of the Wroblewski Funeral Home Inc., 1442 Wyoming Ave., Forty Fort. For additional information or to send the family of Mr. Joseph Hometchko an online message of condolence, you may visit the funeral home website www.wroblewskifuneralhome.com . Memorial Contributions may be made in Joseph's memory to the Suncoast Hospice Foundation, 5771 Roosevelt Blvd., Clearwater, FL 33760.

Jean Petrasek

April 25, 2011

Regina Petrasek, 78, of Luzerne, passed away at Wilkes-Barre General Hospital on Monday, April 25, 2011. Born in Wilkes-Barre, February 22, 1933, Regina or Jean, as she was known, was a daughter of the late Edward and Mary Flaherty Laux. She was a graduate of Coughlin High School, class of 1950. Jean was a member and officer of the Mother's Club of the former St. John's Grade School, Luzerne, and the Central Catholic/Bishop O'Reilly Mother's Clubs. She was a member of Holy Family Parish, Luzerne, and its Altar and Rosary Society. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by a brother, Gerald.

Regina is survived by her husband, Joseph, whom she married November 21, 1953; her daughter, Maureen, Martinsburg, W.Va.; sons, Joseph, and wife, Rosemary, Martinsburg, W.Va., Ronald, and wife, Carla, Garland, Texas; and grandchildren Alyssa, Meredith, John, Julie, and Jill. She is also survived by a brother, Edward Laux, Wilkes-Barre; and sisters, Eleanor Verazin, Nanticoke, and Carmella Cunningham, Wilkes-Barre; as well as many nieces; nephews; and cousins. Funeral services will be held 9:30 a.m. Thursday from the Metcalfe & Shaver Funeral Home, 504 Wyoming Ave., Wyoming, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. in Holy Family Parish, Bennett Street, Luzerne.

Interment will be in St. Cyril and Methodius Cemetery, Pringle. Family and friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society , in memory of Regina Petrasek, 712 South Keyser Ave., Taylor, PA 18517 or online at www.cancersociety.com

Jim Keaney

I got an email from Michael Kinney a few days ago that had been sent to him by Mr. Slusser letting him know that Jim Keaney had died. I never had Mr. Keaney for any classes, but I'm sure many of you did. I've included this image of him from our yearbook. Here is his obituary:

Jim Keaney died suddenly at his home in New Port Richey Florida on September 6th, 2010. He was 65. He was born in Wilkes-Barre on December 3rd, 1944.

A graduate from Kings College with a BA in English, he went on to earn his MED at Shippensburg University. He was a past president of the Shippensburg Lions Club and a member of the Knights of Columbus. Jim was leader in the Boy Scouts for over 30 years, serving as camp director at Camp Acahela in the Pocono Mountains.

For forty years he taught students Latin and English – 29 of those years were in the Shippensburg Area School District, where he was also a swim coach for many years. He is survived by his wife Julianne of 35 years, his daughter Erin, son Jamie, mother Alicia, three brothers Mark, Paul and Matthew and two grandsons Roman and A.J.

A memorial service will be held in his honor on September 18th, 2010 at 10:00 am in Shippensburg, PA at Our Lady of the Visitation Church, 305 North Prince Street. Condolences may be sent to his wife at 8433 Creedmoor Lane, New Port Richey, FL 34654.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Jim Keaney Scholarship Fund by making checks payable to the "Jim Keaney Scholarship Fund" and send them to Jamie Keaney, 1623 Memorial Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15216

Jeanne M. Dalley

Thanks to Joe Ziller for informing me about the passing of Marijean and Marijoan's mother, Jeanne. Our deepest sympathy to both of you.

August 8, 2010

Jeanne M. Dalley, 86, of Wyoming Avenue, Wyoming, passed away Sunday morning, August 8, 2010, in her home in peace. Born in Wilkes-Barre, she was a daughter of the late Charles A. and Agnes Taugher McGroarty. She was a graduate of St. Mary's High School of Wilkes-Barre, Class of 1942. Jeanne continued her education at King's College in Wilkes-Barre to receive her Real Estate license. For most of her real estate career and up to her retirement, she was employed as an agent for Lewith & Freeman Real Estate, Kingston. Earlier in her career, she was employed by Joseph P. Gilroy Real Estate. Besides her career in real estate, Jeanne was a devoted and loving homemaker and mom as well as an avid reader, contributing to her volunteerism as literacy mentor. She volunteered as a Girl Scout leader as well as fundraising for the American Cancer Society . She loved the ocean, listening to music and hosting tea parties. She was a dedicated Nana to her grandchildren and will be sadly missed. She was a member of Our Lady of Sorrows Church of West Wyoming. Jeanne resided in Forty Fort for 40 years before relocating to Wyoming in 1997. Preceding her in death was her husband, Chester L. Dalley; and sisters, Joan Green and Gege Hutsko; and a brother, Charles McGroarty. Surviving are children, Patricia L. Dalley, Wyoming; Sharyn A. Ashman and her husband, Bill, Bel Air, Md.; Deborah Phillips and her husband, Matt, Henderson, Nev.; Duke Dalley and his wife, Joann Urick, Lehman, Pa.; Marijean A. DeCesaris and her husband, Mark, Mahwah, N.J.; Marijoan T. Morena and her husband, Al, Newbury, N.H.; six grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews. A funeral service will be held at 9:30 a.m. Thursday from the Metcalfe and Shaver Funeral Home Inc., 504 Wyoming Ave., Wyoming, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. in Our Lady of Sorrows Church, West Wyoming. Interment will be in the Mount Olivet Cemetery, Carverton. Friends may call from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Best Friends Animal Society, 5001 Angel Canyon Road, Kanab, Utah, 84741-5000; or the American Cancer Society of the Wyoming Valley, 190 Welles St., Forty Fort, Pa 18704. .

Mystery Drummer

I was curious to see where this drummer image would end up if I uploaded it to the new blog hosting site. It appears that it will be at Blogspot.com. Oh well, if anyone can guess the name of this 17-year-old drummer, you win the contest. He's a bit older now, since this photo is from the 1970s.

New Blog Address

A few months ago, Blogger, which is owned by Google and provides the software we use to post and organizes this blog, informed me that they would no longer support the feature (FTP) that lets me host the content on my own domain. Previously, this blog was at http://k0lee.com/bor77reunion/blogger.html. It is now on Google's blogspot.com domain, as you can see from the URL in the address bar. I'm not sure how it will handle picture uploads, but I may give that a try later today and see if it works.

I had contemplated moving the whole blog to Wordpress as I have done with my own blogs, but that is a lot of work and you'd have to learn a new user interface. I still may do that in the future, but at least for now we'll be able to post again.

I'll do a redirect in place of the original blogger file so that anyone attempting to access that URL will be directed here.

Holiday Greetings!

A Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you all!

BOR 77 Christmas Gatherings - Sat 12/26/09

It looks like there will be two gatherings of our class members tomorrow, Saturday, December 26th. Starting at 6:30 p.m., a group will meet at Grotto Pizza in Edwardsville and another will be meeting at 7:30 p.m. at at Pinnack's 199 Division St. in Pringle, which used to be Cleary's, which of course used to be Pileggi's. If you schedule your time right, you can probably make it to both of them.

More from Karen...

Here is another posting from Karen (I liked your greeting, Karen!) :-)

Thanks Lee, You're The Best!!! I just think we needed something new on there and it worked, 2 more additional postings. I didn't know that Jay now has 3 grandchildren and they all are beautiful children, wow, Aidan grew up a little there. I guess I keep thinking of him the same as the photo of Christian, nonetheless, it was nice seeing something new and good for a change.

Thanks again, and Happy Thanksgiving to you and Terri.
Karen

All right, Karen. Here you go. These are pictures of our three grandchildren.

Aidan,Lily, and Christian.

Thanksgiving Gathering - Novemer 28, 2009

Wow, 2 messages for the blog in one day! Karen must have started something. This one is from Michael Kinney.


It's Holiday Season 2009! Anyone interested in getting together at Grotto Pizza on Saturday November 28th from 6:30 or so onward? Let's go to the Edwardsville Grotto where we held our Icebreaker a few months ago. Let me know if you're interested. Hopefully, Lee will post this on the Class of 1977 website. Happy Thanksgiving.

Email me at fishfishr@juno.com

Michael

Happy Thanksgiving from Karen

This is a message from Karen Leonardi.

Hello Everyone,

Recently I had the opportunity to visit our website and noticed that there has been no postings on our website blog lately, so in an attempt to keep our website (that Lee has worked so very long hours to create and maintain) I am posting a blog and for me this is long overdue. For those that have sent , called or offered condolences regarding my mom, I thank you. I also thank Lee for adding the recent obituaries to the website as I did not know of a few that appeared there. It appears that I’m not alone with a great loss and sadness this year, especially with the Thanksgiving Holiday being next week and the Christmas Holidays right around the corner, there have been many losses of parents, but there is a good part, we are all still here to pass on what our parents and teachers taught us, it’s called Traditions.

I am most saddened by not seeing any recent pics of Jay’s grandson Aidan, there’s an oldie from one of our old blogs, who knows, maybe he’s in grade school, or possibly high school by now, but it won’t be Bishop O’Reilly, now did I say that, who knows, maybe he’s in preschool and has a little girlfriend by now, It would be nice to see new pictures of Aidan and any other grandchildren he may have increased in the Tobias household, even recent Halloween pictures would be nice. I would really like to see some happy and uplifting stuff by now, It would be nice for a change. Aidan if you see this, please tell Grandpa Jay we need to see some new pictures of the first grandchild of the Class of 1977, maybe some others would post and we can all pass on our Traditions to Aidan. Jay, Aidan is soooo cute, how could you not add newer pics, bad grandpa.

For all others that have not posted, I know there’s facebook out there too, I recently added my name, but I still come back to this website, it’s like going back home and you never get bored of it. Even though it sounds like I’m singling Jay out, but I'm not, no one is free of this, Bruce & Beverly, c’mon, get with the program, I’m sure everyone would love to hear and see pictures of Adam, he’s doing great, but I’ll let them tell us more, our 1977 Class is so great, we could have a good little soap opera going on here, I’m sure Mark Hession could tell a lot, anyway, I’m waiting to hear from all of you and Aidan, I’m waiting for a new picture!!!!

Hmmmm, maybe I should have written all of this to Sister Heloise??????

PS: Happy Thanksgiving Everyone…Cluck, Cluck!!!

Helen M. Klecha

Jay just informed me that Sue Klecha O'Donnell's mom passed away last Thursday. Below is the obituary from the Times Leader.


Helen M. Klecha

Helen M. Klecha, 86, formerly of Kingston, passed away on Thursday at Wilkes-Barre General Hospital, surrounded by her family.

Born in Philadelphia, she was a daughter of the late Adolph and Nellie Valevas Kadish. The majority of her life, she resided in Kingston. Helen was a graduate of Kingston High School, Class of 1941. She was a member of St. Ignatius Church, Kingston.

In her younger years, she belonged to the Susquehanna Trailers hiking club, enjoyed playing cards with friends, traveled throughout the United States, loved watching her children play sports, and dedicated herself to family and community.

In her most recent years, she enjoyed watching ballroom dancing and the Pennsylvania polka on WVIA-TV, as well as game shows. Throughout her life, she remained an avid reader and faithful viewer of “All My Children.”
Her favorite pastime was spending time with family and friends. She could never pass up a good laugh or a Milky Way bar.

She was preceded in death by her husbands, Michael Kraftician and John Klecha; brothers, Albert, Joseph and Edward Kadish; as well as a sister, Genevieve Katoski.

Surviving are children, Connie Butler of West Wyoming; Diane Piekanski and husband, Stanley, of Larksville; John Klecha and wife, Mary Ann, of Fairfield, Conn.; Paul Klecha and wife, Jan, of Kingston; Susan O’Donnell and husband, Tim, of North Kingstown, R.I.; 10 grandchildren; three great-grandsons; sister, Agnes Alson, of Wyandotte, Mich.; brother, Adolph Kadish of Swoyersville; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral will be held on Monday at 9:30 a.m. from the Betz-Jastremski Funeral Home Inc., 568 Bennett St., Luzerne, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. in St. Ignatius Church, Kingston. Interment will be in St. Mary’s Annunciation Cemetery, Pringle. Friends may call on Sunday, from 4 to 7 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial donation can be made to the Kingston Ambulance, 600 Wyoming Ave., Kingston, PA 18704.
Condolences can be sent to sympathy@betzjastremski.com

50th Birthday Party Pics!

Pat Balester sent me a DVD with a lot of digital images of the 50th Birthday Party from last month. There are over 270 photos! I was going to go through the process of figuring out which ones to upload to the website but thought that I'd just upload them all in two separate sets, one that came from Mike's camera and the other that came from Pat's camera. They are in the password protected section of the website. Please email me for the username/password if you've forgotten it.

Mike's Pictures

Pat's Pictures

I also got about 6 videos from Mike, but they are too big to host, and I don't want to upload them to YouTube or anywhere that would make them available to the rest of the world because they involve dancing, singing, and other antics ;-). I may also need to get rights clearances from various sources, since some of these folks have amazing talent, and may have already enlisted the services of a Hollywood agent to represent them. So check back later and perhaps I'll be able to figure out how to share them.

The party went off very well and the setting and weather look absolutely beautiful. I'm sorry to have missed it, as I'm sure are many others who could not make it so I'm thankful for this set of photos to give us a taste of what it must have been like, at least in a virtual sense.

The pictures are arranged in thumbnail sizes and you can click on any one to get a larger size image. If you want to get a full resolution version, you can email me and let me know which ones you want and I'll figure out how to get you full resolution images.

Facebook comes of age

I feel like I just spent a virtual weekend with Beverly and Bruce Cottle at their vacation getaway at the shore in Delaware. I wasn't there in person, but the numerous pictures that Beverly posted to Facebook today were amazing, and it gave me a sense of what it must be like to vacation with them at their home in Lewes, DE.

I also got to attend a pig roast with my long lost friend, Wink, again in a virtual sense, because she invited me to join her on Facebook a few days ago. I haven't seen Wink for more than 20 years, but hopefully if a few more of you connect to her on Facebook, we'll see her at our 2012 (35th) reunion. It sure felt good to reconnect with her after all these years.

I've been really enjoying the ease-of-use of Facebook and I appreciate the periodic invitations I've gotten to join some of your inner circles and getting to see your pictures and status updates.

If you haven't used Facebook yet, I highly recommend it. At one time, I thought Facebook was just for the kids, but now I'm finding more, ahem, 'mature', people are joining it.

Sure, we were all blogging here back in 2002 when Facebook was still a gleam in the eye of some Harvard nerd, but Facebook really seems to have come into its own in the past year or two with nearly everyone getting on board. Please feel free to invite me to your inner circle (if you feel I'm worthy of that honor :) and take a look into my connections for any familiar BOR77 names. At last count, I had over a 17 of them, and it seems to grow each week.

I think it would be great to stay connected with as many classmates as possible on Facebook. If you've been a hold out, please join now and I can guarantee you won't be without quite a few friends from way back (but do let us know you've joined so we'll know to connect with you!)

50th Birthday Party

Chuck Brennan sent along this photo of the 50th Birthday Party held at the Castle Inn in Dallas last weekend. I'll be getting a DVD soon with more pictures and perhaps a few videos of the event.

I was unable to make it this time, but got several updates from Michael during the event and it sounded like everyone was having a great time. When I get more pictures, I'll post them either here in the blog, or provide a link to the password-protected part of the site.

Bishop O’Reilly Class of 1977 50th Birthday Party Update

From Michael Kinney: (Please note that the attendee status of this post will be updated regularly --- Last update: July 11th)

Due to circumstances beyond our control, the location of our 50th Birthday Party has been changed. It will be held at The Castle Inn on Route 415, the Memorial Highway in Dallas, a few miles before Harvey’s Lake. The date is still July 18th. I’m sorry for the late change and the late notice.

The party will begin at 1:00 PM and end at 6:00 PM. Food (dinner) will be served from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. We will have a birthday cake, desserts, pretzels and chips from 1:00 PM on.

“Just Us”, our class band will be playing live just for us!! If you haven’t heard them recently, you’ve missed out. They are still wonderful after all these years. (Two of our three classmates won’t be 50 by the 18th; it’s up to you to guess who they are!)

The menu will be a picnic menu complete with Yogi Bear. Ok, maybe not Yogi, but I got you reminiscing. It includes: Bar-B-Que Chicken; Sausage and Peppers; Hamburgers, Hotdogs, Macaroni Salad, Potato Salad and Cole Slaw. There will also be lettuce, tomatoes and onions. Beverages include unlimited soda, beer and wine. The facility has volleyball, horseshoes and basketball available for us youngins to play. If you feel young that day, bring some foot wear to join in the games. Some of us might want to bring some Ben Gay or your muscle rub of choice.

I need some help choosing the ½ of beer we should have on tap. Please email me and let me know your choice. Majority rules. I already have two votes from our meeting tonight for Yuengling Lager. Please let me know your choice email me at fishfishr@juno.com .

Since the party ends at 6:00 PM. Chuck Brennen suggests everyone join him at St. Nick’s Bazaar next to Bishop Hoban afterwards. I’m serious about that and so is Chuck.

The cost is still $35.00. Make the check payable to Michael Kinney. Mail it to Michael Kinney 150 Andover St. Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702. Please note: I have to give them a final count on July 11th. If you have already paid and do not want to attend please call me at (570) 821-0464 and I will send you a refund.

We will still be holding the Yankee Present swap. So being a present not more than $25.00 and please no gag gifts. Just something from where you currently live. Kathy Hannon Blaum is probably bringing New Jersey blueberries and cranberries, but Robin Lonsdale wants her to bring passes to Atlantic City! See the possibilities are endless!

The Icebreaker will still be held at Grotto Pizza on Route 11 in Edwardsville on Friday the 17th beginning at 6:30ish, ending when they decide to toss us!

Check our class website for those who have paid and are attending. I will be trying to keep Lee updated daily.

This is a list as of July 11th of those who have paid and are attending our 50th Birthday Party.


Mark Dushok
Maryellen Finley-Cusma
Deborah Sadusky-Casey
Michael Laton
Joseph Petrasek
Paul McAndrew
Denise and Sandy Scalzo
Michele Chakon-Garen
Kathy Blaum-Hannon
Michael and Sally Kinney
Paul Reinert
Debbie Cannon-Cramer (2)
Bee Harris-Darrow
Robin Lonsdale
Patrick Balester
Dave Kotarski
Chuck Brennan
Sabrina Baynes
Jay Tobias
Mary Helen Carey-Little
Jolayne Kalac-Pinchak
Mark Hession
AJ Kopicki
Mark Kopicki



IceBreaker Attendees:

Mary Pappas-Kosin
Michael Kinney
Deborah Sadusky-Casey
Mark Dushok
Maryellen Finley-Cusma
Chuck Brennan
Patrick Balester
Robin Lonsdale
David Kotarski
Mary Helen Carey-Little
Bee Harris-Darrow
AJ Kopicki
Mark Kopicki


Maybes:

Michael Laton
Joseph Petrasek
Denise and Sandy Scalzo
Kathy Blaum-Hannon (if she gets into town early enough)
Paul Reinert
Joseph Lynch
Mark Hession


Those Indicating Interest in the Yankee Present Swap:

Joseph Lynch (PA)
Mary Helen Carey-Little (PA)
Debbie Cannon-Kramer (OH)
Kathy Blaum-Hannon (NJ)
Denise & Sandy Scalzo (PA)
Paul McAndrew (PA)
Deborah Sadusky-Casey (Germany)
Michael Kinney (PA)
Bee Harris-Darrow (VA)
Patrick Balestar (MO)

Beer Choices:

Yuengling Lager 4
Miller Lite 2
Coors Lite 2

Class of 1979

Bob and Kim Lonsdale
Ron Petrasek and wife
Tony Kalinosky and wife
Patrice Martinsky
Bridgid Piffer
Noreen and Danny Diaco

P.S. my apologies to Deborah Sadusky-Casey for spelling her name wrong the other day. I only had in front of me and still managed to screw it up.

Also Congrats go out to Grammy Beverly Yakus-Cottle and her husband, Grampy Bruce on the birth of Lily this past Sunday.

Don’t forget the deadline is July 11th.

Re: My Mom

I want to take this opportunity on behalf of my Dad, my brother and myself to thank all of you for your thoughts and prayers in reference to my Mom's recent passing. Thanks to everyone for your online condolences, those who came to the viewing and funeral, and who had us in your thoughts and prayers. We are very grateful.

Albert V. Yakus

I got this notification from Chuck Brennan and Karen Leonardi:

Albert Yakus, 75, of Forty Fort, returned to the Lord Friday afternoon at Hospice Community Care Geisinger South Wilkes-Barre surrounded by his loving family. He was born and raised in Luzerne. He was the son of the late Charles and Martha (Mazietis) Yakus.

He was a graduate of Luzerne High School, Class of 1951. He also attended the University of Maryland. He graduated from the NCO, Luke AFB, in Glendale Arizona with the highest grade ever attained at the Academy. He attained the rank of Sergeant while serving with the Air Force during the Korean Conflict.

He was employed as a master plumber and worked as a guard at S.C.I. Dallas, retiring in 1999. He was a member of Holy Family Parish in Luzerne and a former member of the American Legion Post # 525, Luzerne. He was also a former Forty Fort Council member. He enjoyed taking his wife and family out for dinner and to plays. “Poppy” loved fishing with his grandchildren and treating them to the circus every year. Preceded him in death were sisters, Irene Yakus, Florence Kamus, Nellie Lukesh, Mary Adamchick, Ann Baltruchitis and Jule Drakas and brothers, Charles, Edward, Frank, Anthony, Joseph, and Raymond Yakus.

Surviving is his wife of 56 years of marriage, the former Dolores Blassic, at home. Daughters, Deborah Dudeck and her husband, Roy, Kingston. Susan Hoover and husband, Kenneth, Dallas. Beverly Cottle and husband, Bruce, Forty Fort. Marta Saneholtz and husband Paul, Forty Fort. Son, Albert R. Yakus and his wife Elaine, Shavertown. 13 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. Sister, Helen Repshas, Kingston. Brother, Leonard Yakus, Omaha, NE. Numerous nieces and nephews also survive.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday at 10:15am from the Lehman and Gregory Funeral Home Inc., 281 Chapel Street, Swoyersville with a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM in Holy Family Parish, Bennett Street, Luzerne. Interment will be held in St. Ann’s Cemetery, Lehman Township. Family and friends may call on Tuesday from 5 to 8 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Holy Family Parish, PO Box 125, Luzerne, PA 18709.

Mary Lou Tobias

I just got this news from Joe Ziller. Jay's mom passed away on Friday. Here is the obituary from the Times Leader:


Mary L. “Mary Lou” Tobias, 73, of Swoyersville, passed away Friday evening, May 8, 2009, at Hospice Care of the VNA, Inpatient Unit, Heritage House, Wilkes-Barre, surrounded by her loving family.

Mary is survived by her husband, John H. Tobias. Mary and John would have celebrated their 51st wedding anniversary on June 21, 2009.
Born in Swoyersville, on Dec. 27, 1935, Mary was a daughter of the late Maurice J. and Amelia (Reese) Monahan. She was a graduate of the former Swoyersville High School, Class of 1954.

A homemaker most of her life, Mary dedicated herself to caring for her loving family. In her earlier years, Mary was employed by the Okonite Company, New Brunswick, N.J.; Goodbody and Company, Wilkes-Barre; United Penn Bank, Wilkes-Barre, and French Steak, Swoyersville.

Mary was a member of Holy Trinity Church, Swoyersville. An active member of her church, Mary greatly enjoyed volunteering at the church’s annual bazaar. She previously volunteered at the former Bishop O’Reilly High School, Kingston, in their cafeteria and was also a past member of the Swoyersville Kiwanis Club.

An accomplished and dedicated pianist, Mary took great pleasure in sharing her beautiful talent with others. She enjoyed playing the piano in various school productions and also for entertainment at various dinner functions. Also, Mary participated in various piano competitions throughout her life.

Mary took great pleasure in cooking for her beloved family and watching various cooking shows. Also, Mary enjoyed reading various books.

Mary had a deep and devoted love for her family and greatly enjoyed spending time with each and every one of them. She will forever be remembered as a loving, generous and kind wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. All those who knew and loved Mary will deeply miss her beautiful presence.
In addition to her parents, Mary was preceded in death by her sister, Jeanne Vanderhoof; brothers, Nicky Lockman, Raymond Monahan and Robert Monahan.

In addition to her loving and devoted husband, John, Mary is survived by her sons, John and his wife, Margaret Tobias, Binghamton, N.Y.; Michael and his wife, Joyce Tobias, Swoyersville; grandchildren, Lydia Mahoney and her husband, Bryan, North Carolina; Rory, Andrew, Emily and Leigh Tobias, all of Binghamton, N.Y.; Katie and Maria Tobias, Swoyersville; great-grandchildren, Aidan, Lily and Christian; brothers, Maurice J. Monahan Jr., Swoyersville; and Lawrence D. Monahan, Wyoming; numerous nieces; nephews; and friends.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend the funeral which will be conducted on Monday at 9 a.m. from the Wroblewski Funeral Home Inc., 1442 Wyoming Ave., Forty Fort, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 9:30 a.m. in Holy Trinity Church, 116 Hughes St., Swoyersville, with the Rev. Richard J. Cirba, her pastor, officiating.

Interment with the Rite of Committal will follow in Holy Trinity Cemetery, Swoyersville. Family and friends may call today, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Mary’s memory to the charity of one’s choice. For additional information or to send the Tobias family an online message of condolence, visit www.wroblewskifuneralhome.com

Molly Hanlon Mirabito running for Luzerne County Judge

Karen Leonardi called me tonight and asked if I'd mention on the blog that Molly Hanlon Mirabito, a fellow BOR graduate (class of 1980), is running for Luzerne County Judge and needs your vote in the primary and election. We hope that she can count on votes from fellow BOR alumni. Molly has a website that lists her experience and qualifications along with her campaign theme - Embrace Our Future. I encourage you to check it out.

Here's the announcement from the Citizen's Voice:

Hanlon Mirabito declares she’s in judicial race

BY ELIZABETH SKRAPITS
STAFF WRITER
Published: Tuesday, February 24, 2009 4:07 AM EST
FORTY FORT — On the front porch of her childhood home, surrounded by her family, friends and neighbors, Molly Hanlon Mirabito announced Monday she is seeking one of the three open Luzerne County Court of Common Pleas judicial seats.

What better place to make the declaration, she said, than the site of some of her most beloved memories, the place where she learned her values from her parents, Tom and Norita Hanlon.

“I can think of no one who’s more loyal or compassionate or honorable than Molly,” Kathy Hanlon said in introducing her sister.

Due to the cold, Hanlon Mirabito cut short the speech she delivered to approximately 80 people. She said there is a serious war on crime and residents need a voice.

“I am unabashedly confident in my ability to be that voice,” she said.

Hanlon Mirabito, 46, graduated from Bishop O’Reilly High School and King’s College, and received her law degree from the University of Notre Dame. She started practicing in 1987 and specializes in family law.

She served as an assistant district attorney under five of Luzerne County’s DAs; she is a member of the special victims unit. The Luzerne County Court appointed her as a per diem law clerk to visiting senior judges, and she has served as a special master in divorce and real estate equity cases.

Hanlon Mirabito has volunteered on several boards, including that of the Forty Fort Ambulance Association, VISION and the Family Service Association. The Forty Fort native lives in the borough with her husband, Michael, a professor at Marywood University.

Regina Lanczak

I was just notified by Maryellen that Karen's mother passed away on Monday. Here is the obituary from the Times Leader.

Regina Lanczak, of Luzerne Borough, entered into eternal rest surrounded by her family on Monday, April 20, 2009, at Hospice Community Care at Geisinger South Wilkes-Barre, formerly Mercy Hospital.

Regina was born April 1, 1927, in Bronx, New York, to the late Harry and Frances Glassberg Rutenberg and attended George Washington High School, New York City, where she was a member of the Swim Team. Due to Regina’s academic excellence, she was honored to advance a grade level and graduated in 1944.

In 1952, Regina was married to the love of her life, John, and relocated to Luzerne County, first residing in Wyoming, and a few years later to Luzerne Borough until her passing.
For many years, Regina was employed by Meyer & Saba as an office secretary until her retirement. During the time her children were in elementary school, Regina was a member and past Secretary of the Saint Monica’s Mothers’ Club of the former Sacred Heart School, Luzerne. Regina was also a faithful member of Sacred Heart Church, Luzerne, until its closing.
In addition to her parents, Regina was preceded into death by her husband, John, who passed away in May of 1995; sister Bernice Rutenberg; and a granddaughter, Angela (Angel) Lanczak D’Andrea.

Regina is survived by her two children, son John “Chris” Lanczak Jr., at home; daughter Karen Leonardi; and son-in-law Robert, Pringle, Pa.

Regina’s extended family includes Renee’ Traeger Lutecki and her husband, John, with their children, Katrina and Tyler; Donna Knell Bowen and her husband, Bill, with their three children, Justin, Emily, and Abby who cared for Regina in times of need.

Regina’s many joys were first and foremost her family, but she also enjoyed her Saturdays with the ladies having her hair done by Rita Herman and breakfast at Mary’s Place, Luzerne, and lest we forget her most favorite pastimes, crossword puzzles and Winston cigarettes.
Regina will be dearly missed, loved and remembered by all who knew her.

Funeral will be held on Thursday at 9 a.m. from the Betz-Jastremski Funeral Home, 568 Bennett St., Luzerne, with A Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 a.m. in Holy Family Parish with the Rev. Richard Fox officiating. Interment will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Carverton. Friends may call on Wednesday, from 5 until 8 p.m. Rosary will be recited on Wednesday at 4:30 p.m.

Easter tidings

I hope that you all have a happy and blessed Easter.

James Balester

James W. Balester of Chestnut Avenue, Kingston, died Wednesday, April 1, 2009, at home.

Born Dec. 12, 1925, in Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of the late Fred J., Sr., and Ruth Watrous Balester. He attended local grade schools and Elmer L. Meyers High School.

In 1942, he joined his father and brother in the family business, Balester Optical Co., located on North River Street, Wilkes-Barre. He retired having served as vice president and secretary.

He resided on Chestnut Avenue since 1959 and most recently his granddaughter, Tami Snow, resided with him. Jim was an avid photographer, responsible for taking family wedding photos. He and his family enjoyed spending time at the family farmhouse in Dorrance Township.

His wife, the former Kathleen J. Shea, died Dec. 28, 1999. Also preceding him in death were his son, James W., on May 15, 1972; and brother, Fred J. Balester, on Jan. 13, 2009.

Surviving are his children, William F. Balester and his wife, Marcia, Dorrance Township; Jacqueline A. Pekar and her husband, Mark, Sierra Vista, Ariz.; Dorothy B. Hodle, Kingston; Frederick P. Balester and his wife, Nancy, Hanover Township; Patrick J. Balester and his wife, Virginia, Gladstone, Mo.; Susan B. Dennis, Riverview, Fla.; 14 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held Monday at 10 a.m. from Hugh P. Boyle & Son Funeral Home Inc., 416 Wyoming Ave., Kingston, with the Rev. Brian J. Clarke, chaplain of Holy Redeemer High School, Wilkes-Barre, officiating. Entombment will be in St. Mary's Mausoleum, Hanover Township.

Friends may call Sunday, 5 to 8 p.m.

Memorial donations may be made to the Epilepsy Foundation, 919 Walnut St., Suite 700, Philadelphia, PA 19107, or a charity of the donor's choice.

Prayer Request

I got this from Arlene yesterday:

"I received news today that my brother-in-law, Rick, has a tumor on his liver. This man has been my "Brother" for 40 years, and I don't understand why this has to happen to someone who gives his all to his family, church, friends, etc. I trust my sister's instincts when she says "this does not look good", as he has not been feeling well for some time now. They are waiting for the biopsy to be scheduled, so I am asking for your help. I have never asked anything of my classmates before, but I am asking now. Please take a few minutes out of your day when you get this to say a prayer for Rick and our family. We desperately need good news. Thank you and God Bless you and yours."



Arlene Galanda Kuharchik

6 Months old! Ain't he cute?

James C. Cannon

I just got this notification from Joe Ziller just after I sent out the mass email. I am sorry to report that Debbie (Cannon) Cramer's father passed away this weekend.

James C. Cannon, 71, of Shavertown, passed away on Saturday at his home.
He was born May 17, 1937, in Larksville, a son of the late James J. and Mildred Flynn Cannon. He was a 1955 graduate of Kingston High School and was employed for many years by Acme Food Markets. Most recently, he worked for Penn Fern Gas in Trucksville. Mr. Cannon was a member of St. Ignatius Church, Kingston, and enjoyed bowling and golf.

Surviving are his wife, the former Lorraine Gavlick, with whom he celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in October 2008; children, Debra Cramer and her husband, John, Ohio; Linda Sharpe and her husband, William, Bartonsville; James Cannon, Coopersburg; Lori Mrochko and her husband, Edward, Sweet Valley; grandchildren, Allison, Ashley, Brian Cramer; William, Daniel, Christopher Sharpe; Nicholas Mrochko.

The funeral service will be held Monday at 7 p.m. at the Maher-Collins Funeral Home, 360 N. Maple Ave., Kingston. Friends may call Monday, from 4 to 7 p.m.

Condolences can be sent to the family at www.maher-collins.com.
Published in the Times Leader on 3/15/2009

News updates...

Michael Kinney will be getting married this Saturday, March 21st, 2009. Please wish him well if you see him or if you want to email him or call him you can find his contact information linked to the 'email addresses' section main reunion page. Email me for the user/password if you've forgotten it. I apologize if anyone has tried to reach those pages in the past month or so. I've made some changes to my website which resulted in breaking the password protected sections but they are working now.

I've changed the way that the headliners work so that now the two images at the top of the main page load randomly. If you're like me, you'll sit there loading that page over and over to see if you can find yourself ;-). Actually, I had a good excuse, because I needed to test it to make sure all the links worked.

Corinne Kotch Musto has a new address. She's living in North Platte, NE which is the first town east of me in Nebraska, just 240 miles away... You can find her new address in the list on the main page.

I hope all of you have marked your calendars for the next reunion. Can you believe it's only 4 months away? That's right, on July 18th, 2009 at the Checkerboard Inn in Trucksville. Hope to see you there!