Members and guests of the Lincoln High Class of 1954 held their 2018 “81 and Still Having Fun” annual party on Saturday July 14, at the Ellwood City Saxon Club.
Festivities began at 3 p.m. as arrivals were greeted at the entrance by the welcome sign “Reunions in Review.”
Recalling Christmas in July, dressed in her original elf outfit, Ilene Gardner photographed each person fronting a large mural of the Lincoln High School Building as they were registered by Arlene “Pinky” Maielli and Ellie Paul.
Pudue LaCava, Patty Tino and Rosina Massaro presented tickets for awards and directed seating to the tables covered in colors of pink, yellow, aqua, magenta blue and white with centerpieces of themes from previous parties.
Maielli recreated the birthday cakes features at the 2006 Birthday Bash. They invited all to partake in the appetizers, and the many pictures, photo albums and scrap books provided by Gardner.
All the displays and arrangements were made and setup by Gardner’s son, Jeff Gardner, daughter Kim Groom and granddaughter Hanna Groom.
A memorial table displayed three glass framed graduation pictures of the 111 deceased class members. Centered by a memorial candle and four votive candles.
The very properly attired Director, John Tino with a megaphone and clipboard, serving as Emcee, assembled the group and called on Paul Abraham.
Welcoming the group on behalf of James Spielvogel, James Gillespie and himself, Abraham expressed appreciation for the 70 in attendance at this celebration of the 64th year of our graduation from Lincoln High School.
He recognized the work, time and talents of the working committee members, Gardner LaCava, Massaro, Maielli, Abraham, Jan Keenan, Patty Tino, Bob Calve, Clemmy Sirimarco, helpers Jackie Perno, Judy Portugallo and the very supportive wives, Ingrid Abraham and Arlene Spielvogel.
Tino recognized Julia “Ginger” Roccapriore who presented a very prayerful invocation. He invited all to enjoy the buffet dinner of chicken marsala, potatoes, pasta, meatballs, sausage, peppers and onions, baked corn, and salad catered by Aurora’s Catering.
Desserts of decorated cakes and fresh fruit plates were furnished by the committee. Coffee, iced tea and lemon-aid were also provided.
Director Tino opened the social time with a presentation of a prayer poem composed by a classmate, the late reverend Harry Holfelder. A memorial service followed with Tino adding the names of Gloria Houk, Barbara Ruhe, Ronald Sheeler and Rose Marie Wenglik as Gardner lighted the votive candles in their honor.
Reviewing past reunions, recognition was given to Freida McMath and Massaro for their 50’s poodle skirts, saddle shoes and full attire, Patty Tino and LaCava in Hawaiin mumu and flowered leis, Vita (Mariotti) Sweeney in leg revealing beach clothing, Gardner as the Christmas elf and movie director, John Tino.
Awarding of door prizes of gift certificates displayed on LaCava’s golden Christmas followed. Winners were John Tino, Rosina Massaro, Nancy Piecuch, Betty Ann Brown, Ellie Paul, Ted Syphrit, Maielli, Sirimarco and Joyce Cusato. The winner of the 50/50 raffle was Rose Massaro.
Jan Keenan captured all the event with her photography. All picture information is available by contacting Ilene Gardner.
Wish that I could have been there with all of you fine people.
Write John Prokovich at jxproko@gmail.com St Charles MO