Old Forge High School Class of 1976

THIRTY-FIVE!!

2011-08-25T20:05:00.002-04:00

Our 35th Reunion

2011-08-16T22:44:00.002-04:00

It was great to see everyone again at our 35th Reunion on August 13th at Arcaro's. And don't we all look damn good! Our class is the best! So nice catching up with old friends, lots of great food, plenty of dancing and uh...other merriment. Here are some pictures from Nick on PicasaBut wait, there's more! Joan has some Picasa pics too. If you are a member of our Class Facebook Group, there's LOTS more there.
Thanks to the committee (you know who you are) for all the work putting this together and to everyone for coming out to party like it's 1976! See you all again for the 40th!

2011-07-31T17:58:00.000-04:00

and remember...Friends don't let Friends miss reunions.....

2011-07-25T18:33:00.000-04:00

2011-07-13T15:32:00.000-04:00

If you did not get your invitation or know of anyone who didn't get one...Let us know

Invitations Are Soon To Arrive

2011-06-27T18:48:00.000-04:00

It's been 30 years (OMG) since this photo was taken.

Let's do it again!

OFHS Class of 1976 35th Reunion

8-13-11

Arcaro and Genell's

Look for your invitation in the mail!

2011-06-14T22:35:00.000-04:00

Richard P. Notari, Sr., 64, of Old Forge, passed away Sunday, June 12, 2011 at Moses Taylor Hospital from complications from pancreatic cancer.

Born in Scranton on May 7, 1947, he was the son of the late Peter and Margaret Bartoli Notari. He was a graduate of Old Forge High School, Class of 1965 and earned his bachelor of science degree in mathematics from Wilkes University, Class of 1969, and his master's degree in education from Rider (NJ) University.

He was an educator in the Old Forge School District having taught secondary mathematics at Old Forge High School for 30 years before his retirement in 2004. Previously he taught at North Brunswick (NJ) Middle School. He served as the Mathematics Department Chairman while at Old Forge High School, as well as an advisor to the senior class, the Chess Club, and the Blue and Gold Varsity Club.

He was the Old Forge High School golf coach for 20 years, and served as an officer of the Lackawanna Scholastic Golf League. He also served as the school's athletic director for 10 years, and also coached football, basketball, bowling and baseball during his tenure in the Old Forge School District.

He owned and operated Valley Aquarium in Old Forge for 10 years. He was a parishioner of St. Nicholas of Myra Byzantine Catholic Church, Old Forge where he previously taught catechism. He was a founding member of the Old Forge Boys Roundall Club, a former member of the Old Forge Booster Club and an honored member of the Wilkes University Colonel Club having been awarded the traditional Colonel Blue Blazer.
He is survived by his wife of 41 years, the former Diane Barbara Lesneski; sons Richard P. Notari, Jr., Old Forge; Dr. Robert J. Notari, and wife Amy, Old Forge; and Timothy J. Notari, and wife Jennifer, Pittsburgh; granddaughter Kamryn J. Notari; mother-in-law Madlyn Argonish Lesneski, Old Forge; sister-in-law MaryAnne Jasuta and husband Leonard Jr., Manhattan Beach, California; nieces Stephanie, Jacquelyn, and Victoria Jasuta, and nephew Kyle Jasuta, all of Manhattan Beach, California; a godmother, Rosemarie Gromelski, Old Forge;aunts, uncles, cousins, and three godsons.

He was also preceded in death by his father-in-law Henry C. Lesneski.

The funeral will be held Thursday at 9 a.m. from the Victor M. Ferri Funeral Home, 522 Fallon St., Old Forge with Divine Liturgy and Office of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. in St. Nicholas of Myra Byzantine Catholic Church, 140 Church St., Old Forge to be celebrated by the Rev. Gary Mensinger, pastor. Interment will follow in the parish cemetery.

Family and friends may call Wednesday from 4-8 p.m. at the funeral home with Parastas at 7 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made towards a scholarship fund to be set up in the name of Richard P. Notari, Sr. c/o any PNC Bank Branch in Northeastern Pennsylvania or St. Nicholas of Myra Byzantine Catholic Church Beautification Fund, 140 Church St., Old Forge, PA 18518. To leave an online condolence visit www.ferrifuneralhome.com

Gloria Nardone Allegrucci Obituary: View Gloria Allegrucci's Obituary by Scranton Times

2011-05-14T22:47:00.000-04:00

Gloria Nardone Allegrucci Obituary: View Gloria Allegrucci's Obituary by Scranton Times

Anthony R. Trotta

2011-05-11T11:28:00.000-04:00

Anthony R. Trotta, decorated WWII veteran and former Old Forge Mayor.
May 9, 2011

Scranton Times Obituary
Sign the Guest Book

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Tony, Angela and the entire Trotta family.

2011-03-31T21:10:00.000-04:00

2011-02-28T20:12:00.002-05:00

Superman Walks

2011-02-16T11:28:00.029-05:00

This is simply an amazing and truly inspiring story.

I don't have much to add but just want to share what has been already written.

Teammates inspired him

February 13, 2011

By Rick Notari rnotari@psdispatch.com
Pittston Sunday Dispatch Staff Writer

It takes Kiel Eigen anywhere from 25-30 steps to walk from the baseline to half court in the Elio Ghigiarelli Gymnasium at Old Forge High School.

That’s right. Read it again.

I wrote walk.

(READ FULL ARTICLE)

(click on above image to see Kiel walk out for Parent's Night)

Above video shows Kiel working out during basketball practice.

Old Forge senior walks on Parent's Night
after an injury forced him to a wheelchair

BY JOBY FAWCETT (Times-Tribune STAFF WRITER)

Published Feburary 16, 2011

OLD FORGE

Kiel Eigen never believed the odds would defeat him. With his powerful determination and an unwillingness to give in, he finally won.

After suffering a serious neck injury as an eighth-grader that left him in a wheelchair, Eigen lifted himself up and walked with the aid of leg braces and a walker to center court to meet his mother, Kandi, and father, Keith, on an emotional Parents' Night before the Blue Devils played Holy Cross in a boys basketball game.

(READ FULL ARTICLE)

Paralyzed Athlete Takes Giant Steps

By Sharla McBride (WNEP.COM)

10:17 p.m. EST, February 15, 2011

A young athlete whose neck was broken in a high school football game nearly four years ago has been an inspiration to family, friends and classmates.

The senior at Old Forge did something many thought he might never do again.

Kiel Eigen has been bound to a wheel chair for four years. Although paralyzed as a freshman while playing football for Old Forge, Eigen never gave up on sports and has continued to support his peers from the sidelines.

In the high school gym Tuesday night the community showed its support for Eigen as he walked in public for the first time since his accident.

(READ FULL ARTICLE)

And from CNN via WBRE. Including interivews with Kiel, Keith, Kandi and Coach Al

The list is getting smaller...

2011-02-04T20:20:00.000-05:00

ROBERTA COLLINS JACOBSON VISCO TEIXEIRA
FRAN EZDEBSKI
DOTTY FOGLETTA COWER
MARGARET JONES
JANET KACZMARCZYK VERMAK
MIKE MAIKRANZ
VICTOR PAGNOTTI
DIANA RIOUX

Ann Moses

2011-01-27T09:34:00.000-05:00

Ann Moses, 87, formerly of Old Forge, died Tuesday evening under the care of the Jewish Home, Scranton. John, her husband of 54 years, died on Dec. 29, 1998.

Link to Scranton Times Obituary

The Class of 1976 extends its deepest sympathies to the Moses family.

REUNION...Save the Date...August 13th

2011-01-10T22:08:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas

2010-12-16T20:49:00.000-05:00

Black Friday 2010 @ Julia's

2010-11-29T20:17:00.000-05:00

Save the Date !!

2010-11-28T14:48:00.000-05:00

2010-10-29T22:31:00.000-04:00

The search goes on for our Missing Classmates.

2010-10-23T17:14:00.000-04:00

I must give a "Super Sleuth Award" to Mrs. Holtzman (Lisa's Mom) for helping me find quite a few of the missing..I am thinking about starting our own Private Investigating Service..

Also special thanks to friends of friends of friends who FINALLY lead us to finding Carol Walsh.

ROBERT BARON

EDDIE CHERUNDOLO

ROBERTA COLLINS JACOBSON VISCO TEIXEIRA

FRAN EZDEBSKI

DOTTY FOGLETTA COWER

MARGARET JONES

JANET KACZMARCZYK VERMAK

BILL KESLOSKY

MIKE MAIKRANZ

VICTOR PAGNOTTI

BERNADINE PAWLOWSKI

MIKE POCH

DIANA RIOUX

It's Getting Closer...REUNION 35

2010-10-12T19:51:00.000-04:00

Felittese!!

2010-09-12T11:23:00.009-04:00

Photo by Angela Ceccarelli

Looking Good Ladies!

Felittese Festival concludes today

in Old Forge

From the Pittston Dispatch Posted: September 12
Italian festival opens at noon following procession; ‘The Poets’ play tonight
The Felittese Association of Old Forge annual Italian Festival concludes today, September 12, at 146 Third Street, Old Forge. For more than 20 years, the festival is held annually on the second Sunday of September in commemoration of Our Lady of Constantinople.

Parade kicks off Felittese Italian Festival
BY STEVE MCCONNELL (Times-Tribune STAFF WRITER)
Published: September 11, 2010

OLD FORGE - The parade may be a draw, but for Sandy Yurcheck the pasta is equally potent.
"The cavatelli and broccoli is great. It's five bucks, just so you know," said Mrs. Yurcheck, among the eager crowds who made their way to the food stands Friday night after the Felittese Italian Festival kicked off with a parade along Main Street.
The festival, which began Friday and runs through Sunday at 146 Third St., has been celebrated for more than 20 years and was brought to the borough by emigrants from Felitto, Italy, who settled in the area.

2010-09-11T00:01:00.002-04:00

Class Web Page

2010-09-09T10:43:00.000-04:00

I have made the decision, starting today, to temporarily suspend the "Class Web Page" that was previously located at http://mysite.verizon.net/ndlagrasta/Class76/home01.html . Until further notice there will simply be a page there saying "under construction". There are various reasons for this decision. I started the page four years ago after our 30th Reunion as a vehicle for photo galleries and other stuff that couldn't be easily put on the blog. Things have changed in four years. Now with Facebook and Picasa and similar sites that can easily post photos and videos, etc., the need for a dedicated class web page has waned. I know I haven't updated the page in over a year. I found I simply don't have the time or energy to maintain that page at this point, not to mention the nightmare of dealing with HTML code compatibilities with various browsers, etc. At some point I may redesign from scratch a leaner, cleaner version. Until then there is a new link on the blog for "Class Web Page" that goes to a different location, which is http://mysite.verizon.net/ofhs76/class76/. Sorry for any inconvenience. For those class members that are so inclined and haven't already done so, there is a private class group page on Facebook. You do need to be a Facebook member to view that group page, as well as get an invite to join that group. We intend to use that Facebook page for information about our upcoming 35th Reunion next year. Of course the Blog will remain as is. Send me an email if you have any questions.

"UP THE ROAD"

2010-08-29T18:51:00.000-04:00

http://picasaweb.google.com/JOANIE820/70SUpTheRoad#

Thanks to Joe Sohara for getting the Old Forge Pa. Children of the 70's together again for the first annual "Up The Road" reunion...

For those of you not on Facebook.... It's time to Join...and look us all up...

REUNION.....35

2010-08-12T20:16:00.000-04:00

It's time for a Meeting !!!!

OUR GOAL...NO CLASSMATE LEFT BEHIND

2010-06-29T21:41:00.000-04:00

Our goal is NO CLASSMATE LEFT BEHIND...
so I will continue the search for our Missing Classmates..

Here is the list of the Missing and some of the I'm just not sure that I have the right address for them...

KAREN ALEXANDER MISUIRA
LORRAINE ALIMENTI SACCHETTI
ROBERT BARON
KAREN CAREY LUGIN
EDDIE CHERUNDOLO
CINDY CICHY
ROBERTA COLLINS JACOBSON VISCO TEIXEIRA
GARY CRISTIANO
FRAN EZDEBSKI
DOTTY FOGLETTA COWER
SHARON HOLLY SCHIPPANG
MARGARET JONES
JANET KACZMARCZYK VERMAK
BILL KESLOSKY
RAY KUDEY
MIKE MAIKRANZ
JOHN MILETTA
KAREN MIZGALA BARNES
KEVIN MUHA
VICTOR PAGNOTTI
BILL PAVLIKOWSKI
BERNADINE PAWLOWSKI
JOE RAYNAK
MIKE POCH
DIANA RIOUX
DAWN SCHERER YALE
FRANCINE STALLONE SHERMAN
JOE STEFANO
GERI ANN STOUT DEPAOLA
DAVE TUMINSKI
RICHIE ZALEWSKI
CAROL WALSH

2010-06-22T22:32:00.000-04:00

2010-06-16T16:31:00.001-04:00

2010-06-10T22:42:00.000-04:00

$8.50.....LOL....

2010-05-30T20:31:00.000-04:00

It is amazing what Kathy Eva has saved over the years...

John Jemiola

2010-05-25T23:04:00.000-04:00

John J. Jemiola, 84, of Dupont died Friday morning at the Fort Wayne, Ind., Veterans Affairs Hospital. His wife of 56 years is the former Matilda Victor. Link to obit and guestbook.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Debbie and her family. Godspeed John.

35 YEARS...REUNION

2010-05-20T21:10:00.000-04:00

It's that time again !!!

2010-05-01T20:49:00.000-04:00

35 Years
Are you Ready ??
We will update with the date and location as soon as we figure it all out..

Blue Devils fall in Eastern semis

2010-03-21T21:51:00.004-04:00

Old Forge ousted by Northern Cambria, 58-40 Saturday afternoon

By Rick Notari (Pittston Dispatch)

Sunday March 21, 2010

For the first 14 minutes of Old Forge's PIAA class 1A Easter Semifinal on Saturday, the Blue Devils went bucket for bucket with District 6 runner-up Northern Cambria. But a two minute stretch at the end of the first half dictated the tempo the rest of the way and swung momentum as the Lady Colts raced by Old Forge for a 58-40 victory at Mifflinburg Intermediate School near Lewisburg. (FULL ARTICLE)

Tough loss for the Devils. Congratulations to Coach Gatto and the girls on another outstanding season.

Shots refuse to fall in Blue Devils loss

2010-03-21T21:42:00.003-04:00

Old Forge shoots just 28 percent in 46-37 loss to Greenwood

By Rick Notari (Pittston Dispatch)

March 21, 2010

When Old Forge needed its offense the most, its shooting touch went missing in action as the Blue Devils had its season come to an end in a 46-37 loss to Greenwood at the Whitney McCloskey Center at Danville High School on Tuesday night in the second round of the PIAA Class 1A Tournament. (FULL ARTICLE)

Blue Devils March On!

2010-03-18T23:05:00.003-04:00

Old Forge advances to Class A quarterfinals with win over Greenwood

BY ASHLEY TEATUM (STAFF WRITER)

Published: March 18, 2010

DANVILLE - Going into its PIAA Class A second-round playoff game against Greenwood on Wednesday, Old Forge knew it had to slow the pace and silence the Lady Wildcats' leading scorer, Autumn Pellman. The Blue Devils did both. Never trailing in the second half - and building a lead of as many as 10 points in the third quarter - Old Forge held off Greenwood, 40-35, at Danville Area Senior High School. (FULL ARTICLE)

Nice Season, Boys

2010-03-18T22:55:00.004-04:00

PHOTO BY CHRIS MANNING (TIMES-TRIBUNE)

Greenwood gets by Old Forge in boys Class A second round

BY JOBY FAWCETT (TIMES-TRIBUNE)

Published: March 17, 2010

DANVILLE - Playing with its usual tenacity, Old Forge gave itself a chance Tuesday night, but the shots wouldn't fall. And as Greenwood celebrated a rugged 46-37 win in the PIAA Class A second round at Danville High School, the Blue Devils were left to ponder their opportunity that slipped away. (FULL ARTICLE)

CONGRATS TO COACH AL AND HIS STAFF AND ALL THE BOYS ON A FINE SEASON!

Blue Devils Advance

2010-03-14T20:16:00.006-04:00

Mansfield no match for Blue Devils

Kaville scores 22 to lead 58-22 rout of Lady Tigers

By Rick Notari (Pittston Dispatch)

March 14, 2010

Old Forge imposed its will in every facet of the game on its way to a 58-22 victory over Mansfield High on Saturday afternoon at the Insalaco Arena on the campus of Marywood University.

The victory moves the Blue Devils into the PIAA Class 1A Eastern Quarterfinals against Greenwood (22-5) on Wednesday at a time and site to be announced.

(FULL ARTICLE)

Sweet Sixteen!

2010-03-13T10:43:00.005-05:00

Blue Devils Advance to Sweet Sixteen

By Rick Notari (Pittston Dispatch)

March 14, 2010

Led by a stellar defensive effort by senior Mike Avvisato, and an almost perfect execution of its offense, Old Forge advanced to the Sweet 16 of the PIAA Class 1A Championships with a 54-46 victory over Sayre at the Insalaco Arena on the campus of Marywood University on Friday night.

The Blue Devils will face District 3 runner-up Greenwood (24-3) on Tuesday night at a site and time to be determined.

(FULL ARTICLE)

If it's March, it must be PLAYOFFS!

2010-03-06T22:50:00.004-05:00

THREE-PEAT!

THRICE AS NICE

Old Forge wins school-best third straight D2 Class 1A crown

BY RICK NOTARI (Pittston Dispatch)
MARCH 7, 2010
Old Forge set a school-record by winning its third-straight District 2 Class 1A title with a 44-38 victory over top-seeded Forest City on Wednesday night at Scranton High School
(FULL ARTICLE)

Kaville leads Old Forge to third straight District 2 Class A Title

BY JOBY FAWCETT (TIMES-TRIBUNE)

MARCH 4, 2010

Kim Kaville wanted to finish her District 2 basketball career in style. Taking over the Class A title game at Scranton High School, the senior led Old Forge to a 44-38 win over Forest City on Wednesday Night for the school's third straight title. (FULL ARTICLE)

CONGRATULATIONS COACH GATTO AND THE LADY DEVILS! ON TO THE STATE PLAYOFFS!

FOUR-PEAT!

PHOTOS BY BILL TARUTIS

Devils Show FOUR-titude
BY Rick Notari (Pittston Dispatch)
MARCH 7, 2010
It wasn't the prettiest of Old Forge's four championships during its domination of District 2 Class 1A basketball, but it may have been its most resilient as the Blue Devils rallied from a seven point halftime deficit to defeat Freeland MMI, 41-37 in the Thomas R. Kelly gymnasium at Pittston Area on Thursday night and earn their fourth consecutive small school crown.
(FULL ARTICLE)

Old Forge rallies for fourth straight District 2 Class A boys basketball title
BY JOBY FAWCETT (TIMES-TRIBUNE)
MARCH 5, 2010
As the energetic student section, decked out in blue and gold, chanted "four-peat", Old Forge players finally had a chance to breathe a sigh of relief. Challenged to the final horn by a gritty group from MMI Prep, the top-seeded Blue Devils responded and won their fourth straight District 2 Class A title, 41-37, Thursday at Pittston Area High School. (FULL ARTICLE)

CONGRATS TO COACH AL AND THE BOYS! ON TO THE STATE PLAYOFFS!

Catherine Borthwick

2010-03-04T20:35:00.005-05:00

Catherine J. Borthwick

March 1, 1924 - February 3, 2010

Catherine J. Borthwick, 86, of Old Forge, died Wednesday afternoon at Moses Taylor Hospital. She was preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth Borthwick. (LINK TO OBIT)

SIGN GUEST BOOK

Our deepest condolences to Tom, Gary and their families.

Need we say more.

2010-02-26T20:44:00.004-05:00

Pizzeria worker sees Jesus in sauce bucket on first Friday in Lent

By Jeremy G. Burton

Times-Tribune

February 25, 2010

When Mary Louise Salerno saw Jesus Christ in a bucket of pizza sauce, her instinct was not to alert the media or even to tell many friends.She did not want people descending on her family's West Scranton pizzeria, and she did not want to invite critics or doubters of what she felt was a clear sign."To us, it was something special," Ms. Salerno, 65, of Old Forge said. "God smiled on us that day."

FULL ARTICLE

Another Night Out At Dooley's

2010-02-20T22:08:00.003-05:00

http://www.dooleyspubandeatery.com/

The Devil's Advocate

2010-02-15T21:55:00.002-05:00

By Rick Notari

Pittston Dispatch Sports

February 14, 2010

The Russian Army lost a great soldier this week – and the world lost a great man.

My grandfather passed on Monday leaving a huge void in the universe and of course, in “The Russian Army.

Read the Full Article

Henry Lesneski

2010-02-10T08:41:00.006-05:00

Henry Lesneski

July 29, 1921 - February 8, 2010

Henry C. "Hank" (Lesniewski) Lesneski, 88, of Old Forge, died Monday at Mercy Hospital, Scranton, after a brief illness. His widow is the former Madlyn Argonish. They would have celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary May 26. (Link to Times Leader Obit)

Sign the Guest Book

It is with great sadness that I note the passing from this earth of Henry Lesneski. Our deepest condolences to Mary Anne, Len and the Jasuta family, Diane and Rich and the Notari Family, and the extended Lesneski and Argonish families.

God Bless you all.

GAME DAY!

2010-02-07T11:49:00.004-05:00

Today I bleed Blue and White

FOLLOWING THE FORGE

By Rick Notari

Pttiston Dispatch Sports

Today, I bleed Blue and White – and so should you. No, I haven’t lost my mind and become a State Penn – uhPenn State – fan. Today, I am an Indianapolis Colts fan, and there is no reason why the entire Borough of Old Forge shouldn’t be rooting for the Colts as well. (READ FULL ARTICLE)

Rychleski making Super debut

Old Forge native reaches SB XLIV as Colts special teams coach

By Tom Robinson

Scranton Edition sports correspondent

Joe Namath was the reason many high school quarterbacks in the 1970s just had to wear white shoes.

(READ FULL ARTICLE)

BEST WISHES RJ!

Old Forge Pizza Challenge

2010-02-03T11:31:00.003-05:00

if anyone can help out it would greatly appreciated

check out the Old Forge Pizza blog

Millersville Jumps on the RJ Bus

2010-02-02T14:20:00.002-05:00

Millersville Alumnus Ray Rychleski to Coach in Super Bowl

2/1/2010 10:45:38 AM

Millersville, Pa. - Millersville alumnus Ray Rychleski, current special teams coordinator for the Indianapolis Colts, will coach in this Sunday's Super Bowl XLIV. (Read Full Article)

The RJ Bus Rolls On

2010-02-01T21:33:00.007-05:00

Columbus, Georgia Ledger-Enquirer

Monday, Feb. 01, 2010

Rychleski ready to get down to business in Super Bowl

Former USC assistant still spends late nights in the office

as he tries to help the Colts win a title.

By JOE PERSON - jperson@thestate.com

When he was hired at South Carolina, Ray Rychleski jokingly proclaimed himself Columbia’s most eligible bachelor and bought a townhouse in the heart of the Five Points entertainment district. (Read Full Article)

Old Forge's Avvisato dedicating season to cancer survivor Matt Petrini

2010-01-29T11:10:00.002-05:00

From The Scranton Times 1-24-10

Old Forge's Dom Avvisato needs only to look into the stands to appreciate his opportunity to play basketball.

READ FULL ARTICLE

Rychleski Leads Colts To The Super Bowl

2010-01-24T20:08:00.011-05:00

Special Teams Clearly The Key

To Grounding Jets

Sunday in Indianapolis, Coach Ray "R.J." Rychleski's Colts seized the AFC Championship from the Cinderella New York Jets with a convincing 30-17 victory. Crisp execution, marked by sterling special teams play, sealed the victory for the Colts. A giddy All-Pro Center Jeff Saturday called Coach Ray "..the sparkplug for this entire franchise". Coach Jim Caldwell credits "those totally cool sunglasses" for "setting the tone" for the team this season. Kicker Matt Stover, whose three special teams field goals were a huge part of the winning margin, remarked "Coach Ray is definitely the baldest coach we have". Future Hall of Fame quarterback Peyton Manning added "Ray who?"

CONGRATULATIONS R.J.!!!

FROM ALL YOUR T.O.F. FRIENDS.

ON TO MIAMI...WHOOP!

Ragni leads Trinity

2010-01-20T11:22:00.004-05:00

Well it seems another member of the Class of '75 has had a successful coaching career. Bill Ragni was named head coach of Camp Hill, Pa.'s Trinity High this year and led the team to a 7-4 record. Thanks to Jamie R. for finding this nice article on Bill from the end of Sept. last year.

Trinity football coach Bill Ragni gets his chance

Brad Kane, for the Patriot/News, Sept. 29, 2009

It's been a long and winding road for Trinity football coach Bill Ragni. After 24 years of coaching at various levels, Ragni got his first head coaching job this year. (Read Full Article)

Here's another article about Coach Bill from The Rick (thanks pal)

"From 'Rags' to riches" Pittston Dispatch Aug 23, 2009

Devils upset #1 Carbondale

2010-01-13T12:35:00.020-05:00

photos courtesy Kathie Mozeleski/Rick Notari

(Pittston Dispatch/Rick Notari)

Inspired Blue Devils charge over Carbondale.

Goodall scores 29 and Old Forge beats Chargers, 60-50.

Old Forge junior Tony Goodall put on a career-performance and an inspired Blue Devils squad played its best basketball of the season on its way to a 60-50 victory over Carbondale Area in the Devils Den on Tuesday night. The victory by Old Forge gave the Chargers its first Lackawanna League Division II loss of the season. (Full Article)

The boys also beat Lakeland 57-49 on Friday, while the girls squad won their second straight game on Thursday.

January 9th, 2010

2010-01-09T13:43:00.003-05:00

Rena Rosati

March 7, 1920 - January 9, 2010

Scranton Times Obituary

Contact Frank

Hey Hey Coach Ray

2010-01-05T23:30:00.005-05:00

photo courtesy life.com

Playoffs?!! Playoffs??!!!

Well not this week, thanks to an outstanding regular season by the Colts (in Coach Ray's rookie year in the league), they have a bye week.

Best Wishes to Coach Ray on the Road to the Super Bowl.

While searching for a nice picture of Ray I came across this pretty cool blog post.

"The Ray Rychleski Guide To Looking Cool With Sunglasses"

Vincent A. Piccolini

2010-01-01T20:15:00.004-05:00

Vincent A. Piccolini

August 3, 1934 - December 30, 2009

Link to Ferri Funeral Home

Merry Christmas To All

2009-12-24T00:39:00.003-05:00

2009-12-23T15:57:00.004-05:00

clique – noun

1. a small, exclusive group of people; coterie; set.

We are a small, limited interest blog by design. Who else but our class members or Old Forgers that know us would care about any of this stuff? We started long before Facebook was popular with adults as a fun way for us to remember the ‘good old days’ and stay connected in the present.

However, we are NOT exclusive. If you Google: “Old Forge High School Class of 1976” the blog is the first thing that comes up. There is no login required to view the blog. Anonymous comments clearly are allowed, and while those commenters are encouraged to identify themselves only to me, comments that are not spam or offensive are generally allowed to stand. Open discussion is encouraged. It is the life of this blog. Content is intentionally directed to be relevant to our class members. If you are not from our class or don’t know any of us personally, why would you bother looking at this blog? If you are a member of the Class of ‘76 and I have your email address, you have been invited to join this blog at some point. Others may have been invited if they asked or had relevant input. Not everyone has accepted those invites. Not everyone wants to bother with this blog and that's totally fine with me. We all have our own lives and families and work and better to attend to all that than to spend the precious time we have on this earth dawdling away in cyberspace. Anyone can contact me directly via email with feedback at any time by clicking on the contact info link. I had moved it down to the bottom of the page a while ago and now I’ve added a new contact link in the “Related Links” section.

Since Facebook has blossomed in the last few years there has been a lot less discussion and postings on this blog. That doesn’t mean there has been less traffic here, there has been more than ever. But not everyone bothers with Facebook either. So the blog still serves as a point of contact for a number of Old Forge expatriates. When there is news of note and interest, it gets posted for those who otherwise might not find out. Unfortunately from time to time some notable citizens of the Borough pass from this earth. I feel a responsibility to share that information and I always post a link to the obituary, where those who choose to do so can leave a comment in the guest book that the family can see. Chances are high that the family is NOT going to see the blog. I include a photo if I have one, in Bobby’s case I didn’t. Others may choose to attend the family services in person. I found out about Bobby’s passing from a post on Facebook. There were a LOT of comments there, all very positive. I really didn’t expect any comments to be made about Bobby on our blog. It’s been many years and the memory clouds, but I don’t personally recall any of my classmates ever being mean or disrespectful to him. When I was a senior he was around 40 years old. I never had much direct contact with him but in retrospect I am proud that our community enabled him to be who he was and encouraged him to be such an active and visible participant in Borough life.

Anonymous comments are still welcome on this blog. However, if the volume of anonymous spam comments increases, that may need to change. I have been deleting about four or five random spam comments per week in the last month or two. Anonymous commenters who do in fact know some of us personally should take the time to contact us directly to share their views. Even if you don’t know us and have something to say to any of us directly, person to person contact carries more weight that a nameless comment on a blog. It’s not that hard for anyone to find us. Based on a phone call I got recently about a comment that was posted three years ago, I should know. I am very grateful that after 33 years members of our class are still a close knit group. For those of us living out of town, this blog has been a huge part of that. It’s a way for us to remember and cherish the uniqueness of the community of Old Forgers.

RIP Bobby Jr.

2009-12-14T19:59:00.000-05:00

Robert M. Nese, 73, of Old Forge, died Saturday morning in the Mountain Rest Nursing Facility, Scranton.

Link To Legacy.com

Dooley's Black Friday 2009

2009-11-28T16:22:00.002-05:00

Check out the rest of the Pics

Picasa Web Albums - JOAN - Dooley's November 27 2009

Nice work Joan, and here are my pics

Picasa Web Albums - Nick - Black Friday @ Dooleys 2009

When Black Friday Comes...

2009-11-22T22:13:00.002-05:00

We'll see you at Dooley's

http://www.dooleyspubandeatery.com/

2009-11-19T19:36:00.000-05:00

Old Forge High 100th Anniversary News

2009-11-14T18:11:00.002-05:00

The Old Forge School District 100th anniversary committee is seeking the names of every student who served as Miss Devilette during the school’s history. It is believed the first Miss Devilette was named in 1949.The majority of names have been found, but the committee is still seeking Miss Devilettes from 1950 to 1958 and for 1960. Anyone with information can contact the superintendent’s office at 457-6721.

The committee is also seeking the names of every student that has earned the honor of valedictorian during the school’s history. The first graduation class was in 1910. Anyone with information regarding the school valedictorians can contact the principal’s office at 457-6721

Donors are needed for 100th anniversary banners that will be placed on telephone poles throughout the borough. Design of the banners is still in the planning stages but will feature the donor’s name. For more information or to make a donation, contact high school principal Chris Thomas at 457-6721.

The committee will meet on Wednesday, Dec. 9, at 3:30 p.m. in the elementary library. Members of the community are welcome to attend and participate. For more information contact the superintendent’s office at 457-6721.

It's Official

2009-11-11T16:40:00.000-05:00

Dems Our Gals

2009-11-04T21:37:00.015-05:00

The Borough of Old Forge voted overwhelmingly Tuesday to retain Mayor Petrini for another term. Congratulations Michele! A pizza in every kitchen!

OLD FORGE MAYOR           VOTE FOR NOT MORE THAN  1

(WITH 7 OF 7 PRECINCTS COUNTED)

MICHELE PETRINI AVVISATO (DEM)  .  .  .     1,762   61.54

RALPH R. CHASE, JR. (REP) .  .  .  .  .     1,091   38.11

WRITE-IN.  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .        10     .35

Total .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .     2,863

In New Jersey District 8, not quite the results we were hoping for. Running a strong campaign in her first statewide race, Debbie came up short against two tough incumbents. Yo, New Jersey, wassamaddawityoo? How could you not love that face??!! Ah, fugettaboudit. Deb, you're still tops with us. Keep fighting the good fight. State Assembly - District 8 - General
154 of 162 Precincts Reporting - 95%
Max Winners=2

Name	Party	Votes	Vote %
Addiego, Dawn Marie (i)	GOP	38,921	31%
Rudder, Scott (i)	GOP	37,564	30%
Brown, Bill	Dem	24,369	19%
Sarcone, Debbie	Dem	24,366	19%

CENTENNIAL VOLUNTEERS

2009-10-25T20:21:00.002-04:00

The Old Forge School District will hold a 100th anniversary committee meeting on Wednesday, November 4 at 3:30 p.m. in the elementary library for anyone interested in becoming a member.
If you have volunteered for the committee please contact the superintendent’s office at 457-6721 if you are able to attend.
Volunteers for the committee are still being sought, and anyone is welcome to attend to the meeting.

On the Campaign Trail....GI's

2009-10-22T20:55:00.001-04:00

Picasa Web Albums - JOAN - Michele for Mayor

Forgot to get myself in one of the pictures LOL..

More Election Campaign

2009-10-20T23:02:00.003-04:00

Your friendly local Old Forge Borough Candidates.

Mad Scientist

2009-10-18T21:19:00.001-04:00

Deb for NJ State Assembly

2009-10-16T15:35:00.000-04:00

"Two Candidates that will Fight For You" from Brown/Sarcone on Vimeo.

LOOKING FOR ALL OFHS DEVILETTES

2009-10-13T21:33:00.001-04:00

Devilette reunion: Homecoming football game, half-time Devilette reunion, Thursday, part of district 100th anniversary, former Devilettes planning to attend; 457-6721, ext. 100.

LOOKING FOR OLDEST OLD FORGE HIGH SCHOOL GRAD

2009-09-27T14:03:00.001-04:00

The Old Forge School District is seeking the oldest living graduates of Old Forge High to take part in Homecoming Festivities on October 16 when the Blue Devils host Carbondale. Graduates will be honored during pre-game ceremonies.
Alumni are asked to contact Athletic Director Debbie Pepsin at 457-6721 if interested in participating.

chirp...chirp....

2009-09-18T00:26:00.005-04:00

More Decade Reunion Photos

2009-08-13T19:51:00.003-04:00

Here are some more Decade Reunion Photos

Thanks Karen...they are Great

Picasa Web Albums - Decade Reunion 2009 (Karen's Pictures) - Decade Reunion 2009 (Karen's Pictures)

Decade Alumni Celebration 2 - The Video

2009-08-06T00:09:00.003-04:00

Decade Alumni Celebration 2

2009-08-02T20:52:00.005-04:00

Had a GREAT TIME !!!

Check out the rest of the pictures...

Picasa Web Albums - DECADE REUNION 2 - DECADE REUNION 2

and here is the link to Nick's Picasaweb pictures

For those of you on Facebook,

here is the link to the event page.

More pictures and (gasp) video will be posted there soon.

2009-07-22T17:19:00.002-04:00

It's not too late to join the FUN !!!

Link to the FACEBOOK EVENT PAGE

DATE: Saturday,August 1,2009

PLACE: All Season Banquet Center

3729 r. Birney Ave,Moosic Pa
TIME: 6:30 to ????
COST: $50 per person

EVERYONE is WELCOME

Invitations are out for the
"Decade Alumni Celebration"

If you did not get an invitation and want to attend
or if you would like to donate

please send response to

Dianne (Goosley)DeFrancesco, 47 Hale Street,Yatesville Pa 18640

A Rose by any other name...

2009-07-16T21:33:00.010-04:00

...would still be as lovely a lady.

Vaya con Dios Mrs. Kenney.

Rose Costanzo Kenney

Rose Costanzo Kenney, West Scranton, died Wednesday from complications suffered after a recent stroke.

For more than 20 years, she taught Spanish language and literature and English at Old Forge High School. (link to continue reading obit)

2009-07-15T23:58:00.004-04:00

Hey ladies, follow me to the "Decade Alumni Celebration"

2009-07-07T20:30:00.002-04:00

The OFHS Classes of "77" &"78"
are hosting the "Decade Alumni Celebration"
honoring Kiel Eigen"

The invitations are out .....
which means the Limoncello was flowing

DATE: Saturday,August 1,2009

PLACE: All Season Banquet Center

3729 r. Birney Ave,Moosic Pa
TIME: 6:30 to ????
COST: $50 per person

EVERYONE is WELCOME

Invitations are out for the
"Decade Alumni Celebration"

If you did not get an invitation and want to attend
or if you would like to donate

please send response to

Dianne (Goosley)DeFrancesco, 47 Hale Street,Yatesville Pa 18640

Miami...Nice!

2009-07-06T23:48:00.007-04:00

Well they did not locate Crockett or Tubbs, nor Brad Pitt for that matter, and no word on whether Miami Ink had any new customers, but it looks like quite a fine holiday weekend was had in South Beach for Mare, Joan, Tori, and the rest of the volleyball crew. Those of you with Facebook accounts can link in to the rest of Joan's pictures here.

TOW 7-1-09

2009-06-30T23:55:00.002-04:00

OK, it's July. Time for these again.

And 33 Years Later...

2009-06-13T19:53:00.005-04:00

OMG has it really been that long?

Congratulations to all the Class of 2009 graduates

and to the Moms and Dads - looking great!

Let's go Devils!!!!!

2009-06-11T10:16:00.002-04:00

On June 12, 1992 the Old Forge Blue Devils baseball team won the PIAA Class 2A Baseball Championship, beating District 9 champ Ridgway, 15-5. The Blue Devils were decided underdogs.

On June 12, 2009, the Old Forge Blue Devils softball team will try to accomplish the same fete, and win the school's first female state championship when they take on District 9 champ Curwensville. Again, the Blue Devils will be decided underdogs.

Support the team and travel to Shippensburg!!! If you can't, catch the game LIVE on PCN at 2 p.m.

And yes, one other thing, Friday will be the 17th anniversary of the state championship baseball team. Old Forge softball coach Pat Revello wears jersey No. 17!!!

2009-06-09T20:57:00.002-04:00

DATE: Saturday,August 1,2009

PLACE: All Season Banquet Center

3729 r. Birney Ave,Moosic Pa
TIME: 6:30 to ????
COST: $50 per person

EVERYONE is WELCOME

Invitations are going out this week for the
"Decade Alumni Celebration"

If you did not get an invitation and want to attend
or if you would like to donate

please send response to

Dianne (Goosley)DeFrancesco, 47 Hale Street,Yatesville Pa 18640

TOW 5-20-09

2009-05-20T22:57:00.004-04:00

TOW 5-12-09

2009-05-12T21:30:00.002-04:00

TOW 4-27-09

2009-04-27T00:11:00.002-04:00

New Baseball Facility Dedication 04-18-09

2009-04-18T20:39:00.007-04:00

The Gene Goosley Memorial Hitting Park was dedicated today at the Old Forge Miles Street Community Park during Opening Day Ceremonies at the Old Forge Little League. On hand to cut the ribbon and throw out the first ball was Gene's daughter Diane Goosley DeFrancesco, OFHS Class of '77. Also on pictured are Paula Goosley Kashuba and Coach Pat Revello. Thanks for the pics, Rick.

"Baby Joe" Lettieri

2009-04-11T22:57:00.007-04:00

July 8, 1952 - April 11, 2009

It is with deep sadness that we learned today of the passing of "Baby Joe" Lettieri. Our information is that he had been seriously ill and in the hospital for the last few weeks.

For any of us that spent any time at Salerno's in the last 30 some odd years (and I know I speak for a lot of people that spent a LOT of time at Salerno's), we also spent a lot of time hangin' out with Baby Joe. Yes there was the great pizza and the wonderful characters and the classic ambience, but the Baby was the constant, warmhearted presence that made it the cool place to be and the once place you always wanted to come back to hang out in again. We will still come back, but it won't ever be quite the same.

On the other hand, Heaven is now a much cooler place to be. We'll miss you, pal. Salut.

Our deepest condolences to the Lettieri and Salerno families.

Times Obituary and Guest Book

Welcome to Balmer, Hon

2009-04-09T23:56:00.007-04:00

Well the 2009 Tori Jasuta JOQ Rock and Roll Volleyball Tour rolls on this weekend, with a stop in Charm City. So naturally the very few of us who could, took the opportunity to catch up with Dr. J again, however briefly it was. Rumour has it that some of the Notari clan will also making an appearance in Baltimore this weekend. Nice to see you again Mare, and Good Luck Team Tori!

(Now I know that if you live outisde of MD or you've never seen "Hairspray" you won't get the joke in this post headline, but I had to make it anyway.)

NEPA Blogs

2009-04-05T18:38:00.002-04:00

A friend from Pittston and Penn State clued me in to these links.

gort42

nepablogs

T.O.W. 04-04-09

2009-04-03T23:33:00.002-04:00

...phylum lepidoptera...

Teacher of the Week 3-30-09

2009-03-30T22:32:00.001-04:00

Help me out somebody, I can't remember what this guy's famous words were.

2009-03-23T21:40:00.001-04:00

This is the last picture from my archives

Street View

2009-03-12T22:45:00.007-04:00

Well, I gotta tell ya this Google Map stuff is pretty amazing. Thanks to Tony for pointing me in the right direction. Turns out this is about a block and a half northeast of the White House, which may have been at that time the site of that really horrible cafeteria, the Holloway House. Here's the link to Google Maps for that. Oh, and for good measure, the map link to the Governor Inn.

2009-03-09T18:14:00.003-04:00

Book a room at the Quality Inn Governor

Blue Devils Girls Playoff Run Ends

2009-03-08T13:01:00.004-04:00

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXphoto by Bill Tarutis

A tough loss for the Old Forge Girls ends their 2009 playoff hopes. Read Rick's Dispatch Article. Congratulations once again to Coach Gatto and the Blue Devils Girls for their District 2 Class 1A Championship and an outstanding season.

Great Season, Boys.

2009-03-07T09:57:00.004-05:00

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXphoto by Bill Tarutis

The Blue Devils Boys playoff run ended last night at Pittston Area HS with a tough 50-39 loss to Mansfield. Coach Al's boys gutted it out, holding a 4 point lead in the 3rd quarter, but fell victim to cold shooting and turnovers in the 4th. Read the Times Article. Read Rick's Dispatch Article.

Congratulations to Coach Al and the Boys for another District 2 Championship and a fine season.

Blue Devils Girls (19-5) game today at 3pm at Scranton HS vs. Benton (23-3).