Nativity B.V.M., Pottsville, PA Class of 1968

mark your calendar: October 19, 2013

2011-08-16T14:18:00.000-07:00

I see that in the future...in the year 2013.... the Nativity
BVM Class of 1968 will hold a reunion in the second half of that year....in the month of.....October...on a Friday...no!.... I am wrong... I see that it is being held on a Saturday....it appears to be a day in the middle of the month...it looks like the 12th ...NO..no my crystal ball is smudgy....let me get some windex..Yes, it is the 19th.........Yes, the 19th. Yes I see that it is definitely the 19th...the weather will be good that day...the leaves will be changing into a colorful collage.......it looks as if the reunion will be held in the country,somewhere outside of Pottsville....Yes...I see a body of water..it will be held near water! I see a waterfall.....the reunion will be held at.... Niagara Falls!....No...it will be held at Yosemite Falls...No. I am wrong....Let me turn this ball around and get a better look....yes...the reunion is to be held at Sweet Arrow Lake outside of Pine Grove, Pennsylvania... It is difficult to read the crystal ball without my reading glasses....damn I should have looked for my reading glasses before gazing into the future..where the hell did I put them? Oh! I now see someone swinging on a rope over the lake....I see the person falling into the water...Now wait...I am wrong... there is no rope and no one falls in...that was a piece of string on the crystal ball.....let me wipe it off with the windex.....that is better....everyone is having a good time..... Anyway, mark your calendar....
PS the daily number for October 19, 2013 will be 660. Mark my word..... Now wait, maybe it will be 099 as the crystal ball was upside down. I will have to call the crystal ball help line......

Mario J. Santilli

2010-12-24T05:01:00.000-08:00

Mario J. Santilli, 60, of Pottsville, was lifted up to God on Wednesday evening December 22, 2010 at Schuylkill Medical Center-East Norwegian Street.Mario J. Santilli, 60, of Pottsville, was lifted up to God on Wednesday evening at Schuylkill Medical Center-East Norwegian Street.

Born in Pottsville, May 24, 1950, he was a son of the late William A. and Marion Tassone Santilli.

He was a graduate of Pottsville Area High School and then went to Penn State, where he received an associate degree in accounting.
Mario worked in the pre-press department for The Republican-Herald for 32 years, retiring in 2002.
He was a member of the former St. Joseph Roman Catholic Church, and a member of St. Patrick Roman Catholic Church, both of Pottsville.
He was a social member of the American Legion Post 544, Minersville, and Good Intent Fire Company, Pottsville, and a member of the Schuylkill County Pool League. He was also an avid golfer.

Surviving are a brother, Joseph A. Santilli, Pottsville; and a goddaughter, Jayda Fisher, Philadelphia.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Tuesday at St. Patrick Roman Catholic Church, with the Rev. Edward B. Connolly as the celebrant. A viewing will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. Monday evening at Lord-Bixler Funeral Home Inc., 1818 Mahantongo St., Pottsville, and on Tuesday from 9 a.m. until the procession departs from the funeral home for the church. Interment will be in Schuylkill Memorial Park, Schuylkill Haven. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions in Mario's memory be made to the American Kidney Fund, 6110 Executive Blvd., Suite 1010, Rockville, MD 20852-9813. Lord-Bixler Funeral Home Inc., Pottsville, is in charge of arrangements.

Published in Republican & Herald on December 24, 2010

*incorrectly identified in the newspaper as Pottsville Area High School.

Mario was musically talented and a kind soul. Requiesce in pace

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Father McKenna

2010-06-25T16:15:00.000-07:00

I wonder where is he now? Well, wonder no more!

According to the Allentown Diocese newspaper, the Rev. F. Charles McKenna II, is a retired priest in residence at Holy Family Villa for Priest, Bethlehem, who recently celebrated his 50th anniversary in the priesthood May 13, 2010 with a Mass of Thanksgiving and a dinner at the villa.

Fr. McKenna was born July 27, 1934 in Allentown, son of the late Frances Charles and Ouida M (Petit) McKenna. He attended 13th and Union School, Northeast Junior High School and Reading Central Catholic High School, all in Reading. He received his bachelor of arts degree from St. Charles Borromeo Seminary, Philadelphia in 1956. He also studied at Villanova, Penn State and Temple Universities. He was ordained May 14, 1960 at the Catheldral Basilica of SS Peter and Paul, Philadelphia by the Most Rev. J. Carroll McCormick, DD. He celebrated his first mass the next day at St. Joseph, Reading. He taught at Nativity 1964-1966 with residence at Mary Queen of Peace, Pottsville. He then taught at Marian High School...

Some memorable events of the era 1964-1966 include:

1964: TV Quiz show Jeopardy! premiered with Art Fleming as the host.

1965: "What's New Pussycat" sung by Tom Jones reaches Number 3 on the Billboard charts.
1966: All U.S. cigarette packs have to carry "Caution Cigarette smoking may be hazardous to your health."

John Liebner

2010-03-26T15:21:00.000-07:00

John J. Liebner

John J. Liebner, 59, of Pottsville, passed away Wednesday evening (March 25, 2010) at ManorCare Health Services, Pottsville.
Born in Pottsville, Aug. 1, 1950, he was a son of the late Fred J. and Anna Marie McMurtrie Liebner.
He was a 1968 graduate of Nativity BVM High School and a veteran of the Vietnam era, serving in the Air Force. He was employed by Eastern Press, Pottsville.
He was a member of St. Patrick Church, Pottsville.
On June 26, 1982, he married the former Barbara Purcell, Pottsville.
In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by a brother, the Rev. David Liebner.
Surviving, in addition to his wife of 27 years, Barbara, are two daughters, Teresa and Beth Liebner, both of Pottsville; two brothers, Fred and his wife, Ann Marie Liebner, Pine Grove, and Mark and his wife, Karen Liebner, Port Carbon; three sisters, Mary and her husband, Charles Cagle, Lake Wynonah, Anne and her husband, Michael Liptock, Pottsville, and Jane and her husband, David Wallner, Exeter Township; nieces and nephews.
A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. Monday at St. Patrick Church, Fourth and Mahantongo streets, Pottsville. Family and friends may call at the church from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery. Memorial contributions can be made in John's name to All Saints Catholic School, Seventh and Mahantongo streets, Pottsville, PA 17901. Your condolences for John's family can be left online by visiting http://www.bestlifetributes.com/.

Requiescat in pace

nativity1968 blogspot: the movie

2010-03-09T05:21:00.000-08:00

I have run out of material. The blog will go dormant for now. Enjoy the movie version that was created over the weekend. It received a G rating as well as A-I from the National League of Decency (morally unobjectionable for all). It is not in 3-D so put away those glasses.

freshmen math & tv tribute

2010-02-24T13:53:00.000-08:00

Sister Florence

2010-01-14T19:23:00.000-08:00

Twenty years ago---January 30, 1990

Sister M. Florence, 68, of the Missionary Sisters of Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, who resided in the motherhouse of St. Michael's Convent, Hyde Park, Reading died Tuesday January 30, 1990 in the afternoon in Sacred Heart Hospital, Norristown, where she had been a patient for six weeks.

She was born in Coplay, a daughter of the late Charles and Katherine Buscolits Walakovits.

After entering the order in 1939, she taught in parochial school elementary schools in Palmerton, Nazareth, Philadelphia and Coopersburg for eight years. She taught five years at Little Flower Catholic High School for girls, Philadelphia, and eighteen years at Nativity BVM High School, Pottsville.

She was a receptionist at Sacred Heart Hospital for 12 years until she was assigned to the motherhouse in 1987 as convent librarian.

She was survived by two brothers and six sisters.

Internment was at the Convent cemetery.

Junior 6 History Club

2009-12-20T16:19:00.000-08:00

I was planning on doing a Christmas blog but changed my mind...bah! humbug!

Instead I found this photograph from the 1967 yearbook featuring Junior 6.
I have no idea who anyone is other than Sister Alacoque. I never even heard of the American History Club. Who is the person talking on the telephone?

If you were wondering where in the blazes the name Alacoque came from then click here:

Sister Alacoque

If you aren't interested in that and prefer some uptempo '60s christmas cheer then sit back in your easy chair, grab your egg nog and watch the Beach Boys:

Merry Christmas to all of you who watch the blog either intentionally or accidentally.

November 5, 1967: a day that will live in history (sort of)

2009-11-03T00:07:00.000-08:00

NATIVITY ENDS LONG LOSING STREAK!
4th QUARTER RALLY TOPS MARIAN!
November 5, 1967 (courtesy of the Pottsville Republican 11/6/67)

The win famine has ended.
After 27 consecutive losses the Nativity Hilltoppers rallied for two touchdowns in the last quarter to break a 6-6 deadlock and topple the Marian Catholic Colts by a 18-6 count, Sunday afternoon at Lansford.

Nativity out to end the slump dominated the play throughout the game, as they chewed up yards on the ground while their spirited defense limited the Colts to a mere 23 yards rushing. The big win for Nativity was directed by their quarterback, Dave Toth, and was highlighted by the fine running of Jim Franklin and Joe Ferris.
The last win for the Hilltoppers was against Marian, on November 7, 1965 when they handed the Colts a 31-0 setback. The losing streak began the following weekend when the Hilltoppers were dumped by Notre Dame 32-6.
Neither team could mount an offensive thrust during the initial 12 minutes of play as the entire quarter was played between the two 30 yard stripes, except on the last play of the frame, when Dave Toth's booming punt put the Colts back on their own 15 yard line.
Early in the second frame the Hilltoppers advanced to the Colts 43 yard line and with fourth down and short yardage needed for the first down, Dave Toth faked a punt, but his pass fell incomplete. On the first play of the series, Mike Bimler picked up ten yards, but the Hilltoppers were called for a personal foul and the penalty, from the point of the foul, gave the Colts a first down on the Hilltoppers 30. Three running plays were stopped at the line of scrimmage, by the Nativity defenders, but fourth down, quarterback Tom Andregic pitched a flat pass to Mike Mazur on the 19 yard line and the big fullback tight-roped his way along the sideline, breaking two tackles, and covered the remaining distance for the score. A pass by Jack Pieracini from a fake placement, fell incomplete and the Colts jumped into a 6-0 lead, and the 7:57 mark of the second quarter.
Following the kickoff, the Hilltoppers drove to the Colts 23, where they lost possession on downs. The Hilltoppers regained possession on the third play of the next series, when Mike Bimler fumbled and Mike Coleman recovered for Nativity on the Colts 39. Three running plays gave the Hilltoppers a first down on the Marian 8. Joe Ferris shot over his right tackle and was stopped at the one, from where Dave Toth carried into play dirt on a quarterback sneak. The Colts stopped Ferris short of the goal line on his run for the go ahead point and ths score was deadlocked at 6-6 with 1:57 remaining in the first half.....
Ferris picked up three on the first play of the final frame, but then Toth was dropped for a one yard loss. On the next play, Toth sent Joe Ferris through a gaping hole over his right tackle and the speedy fullback romped untouched into the end zone. Toth's attempted pass for the extra point was batted to the ground, but the Hilltoppers forged into a 12-6 lead, with 10;57 remaining to be played.
Midway through the final frame, the Colts gained possession on their own 47 yard line and drove to the Nativity 16, in three plays, where the drive came to a sudden halt when Mazure fumbled and Ed Muldowney recovered for the Hilltoppers. Nativity was held for downs, but Toth's punt was fumbled by Frank Kane and recovered by Pete Cherrybon, on the Colts 47. Ferris picked up one yard on the first play. Jim Franklin iced the victory on the next play as he shot through a hole, between right tackle and end, cut the sideline and outraced the Marian secondary to the end zone. Toth missed on a drop kick attempt, but Franklin's 46 yard jaunt gave the Hilltoppers a 18-6 spread, with only 2:11 left in the game.
The Colts made on desperate attempt to hit the scoring column for the second time, following the kickoff, but Pete Cherrybon's second interception of the day killed the drive, giving the Hilltoppers a 18-6 victory.

Team Roster
Ends- Cherrybon, Rada, Toomey
Tackles - Leininger, Wollyung, Brown, Forney
Guards - Dougherty, Coleman,
Center - Egan
Backs - Toth, Franklin, Ferris, Muldowney, Boris, Mootz, Haffey, Clark, Wabby, Pavalko
A great sigh of relief fell over the area but soon the celebrations began.

go phillies!

2009-10-28T17:28:00.000-07:00

Click here for the 1968 Phillies Roster

Shindig's version of "take me out to the ball game" featuring Jerry Lee Lewis and Neil Sedaka (and, of course, the Shindig dancers).

half-time

2009-10-04T19:12:00.000-07:00

Who could forget those half-time routines by the Nativity Band.

I studied this photograph for some time and I think it is a salute to the state of Tennessee.

I am referring to the photograph on the bottom :)

The Other Side

2009-09-02T17:14:00.000-07:00

The Other Side

The Other Side was the premiere psycheledic-oriented local rock band in the late 1960's.

Here is the Website for The Other Side

Here is a photo of one of the places you could hear the band: Rokosz Hotel, Sunbury St., Minersville.

Gerry Wargo

2009-08-17T12:53:00.000-07:00

August 14, 2009
Gerald C. Wargo, 58, of Spring Mills, died Friday at his residence.
Mr. Wargo was born in Pottsville, Aug. 16, 1950. He was a son of Anna Klizas, Saint Clair.
He retired from the Hamburg Center as a supervisor.
He was of the Catholic faith.

Gerald was a graduate of Nativity BVM High School, class of 1968, and Penn State University.

Surviving, in addition to his mother, are two sons, Nathaniel Wargo, Hamburg, and Joshua Wargo, Hamburg; two grandchildren, Lucas and Trent Wargo.

A visitation with the family will be held from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Wednesday and a memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at Geschwindt-Stabingas Funeral Home Inc., 25 E. Main St., Schuylkill Haven, with Deacon John Pogash officiating. Interment will be in St. Casimir Cemetery, Port Carbon. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a charity of your choice. Geschwindt-Stabingas Funeral Home Inc., Schuylkill Haven, is in charge of arrangements. Condolences can be sent to http://www.gsesfuneralhomes.com/.

Gerry attended the 40th reunion at Sweet Arrow Lake in October 2008. He never minded his old nickname, 'frog,' in fact he liked the name.

Requiescat in pace

Father McKenna's history lesson

2009-08-07T17:36:00.000-07:00

The second week of August 9th – 16th is chock full of history:

On August 9, 1974 Richard Nixon resigned from office and Gerald Ford was sworn in as president. On August 9, 1995 Jerry Garcia died.

On August 10, 1943 Ronnie Spector was born; in 1963 Stevie Wonder’s “Fingertips Part 2” reaches Number 1 on the charts.

On August 11, 1965 the Watts Riots began in earnest;

On August 12, 1965 Ian Fleming died; not much else happened;

On August 13, 1995 Mickey Mantle died; in 1965 “I Got You Babe” hits Number 1.

On August 14, 1950 cartoonist Gary Larson is born;

On August 15, 1965 the Beatles perform at Shea Stadium; on August 15, 1969 the Woodstock Music & Arts Aquarian Exposition began in earnest. "We must be in heaven, man!"

On August 16, 1977 the King of Rock and Roll dies; in 1931 Eydie Gorme was born.

Jordan Brothers

2009-07-26T09:38:00.000-07:00

Here is the link to the official Jordan Brothers Website.

Still another Pop Quiz

2009-07-14T04:34:00.000-07:00

Pop Quiz:

The above photograph depicts the following:

1. Try-outs for the Quiz Show, "The $64,000 Question."

2. Interpreters attempting to deciper the lyrics to "Louie, Louie."

3. Girls trying on ear muffs at a Pomeroy's Winter Clearance Sale.

4. The Language Lab

5. Traffic controllers at the Pottsville Bus Terminal.

6. All of the above

7. I give up. I don't know that answer. I should have paid attention in French class.

8. Nuremburg War Crimes Trial Interpreters honing their skills.

9. Prehistoric early Chat Room.

Happy Bastille Day. Yes, Happy Bastille Day.

Father Dagle

2009-06-27T19:56:00.000-07:00

From the A.D. Times 6/25/09:

Rev. Harold F. Dagle, Pastor Emeritus of Immaculate Conception BVM, Allentown will celebrate his 50th anniversary as a priest with a Mass of Thanksgiving and dinner with family. He also celebrated before leaving Immaculate Conception last yea. Fr. Dagle is now Catholic chaplain at VA Medical Center, Lebanon and resides at St. Mary's, Lebanon.

He was born August 22, 1993 in Philadelphia, the son of the late Harold and Mary E. (Murphy) Dagle. He graduated from St. Helena School in Philadelphia in 1947 and completed two years at LaSalle College High School. Father entered St. Charles Borromeo Seminary, Philadelphia in 1949 and received his bachelor of arts degree in philosophy in 1955. He recieved his master's degree from Villanova University in 1966. Father also did studies and supervision in marriage and individual counseling at Lehigh Valley Pastoral Institute, Allentown (1972-976), and was certified as a marriage and family therapist by the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists.

He was ordained in May 1959 in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. His assignments included assistant pastor, Annunciation BVM, Shenandoah (1959-1962); religion and math teacher, Marian Catholic HS, Tamaqua (1962-1965); religion and math teacher Nativity BVM, Pottsville (1965-1968); assistant pastor at SS Simon and Jude, Bethlehem (1968-1970), St. Joseph, Summit Hill (1970-1972), Holy Rosary, Reading (1972-1973); pastor St. Mary, Star of the Sea, Branchdale (1973-1980), Immaculate Conception, Allentown (1980-2008), and VA Medical Center chaplain (2008-present).

In Memoriam

2009-05-05T04:49:00.000-07:00

Donna Marie Beverly, 59, passed away Friday May 1, 2009, at Grand Strand Regional Medical Center, Myrtle Beach, S.C. Prior to retirement, she was employed as an assistant manager for Giant Food in Maryland for more than 25 years. She moved to Myrtle Beach in 2006.

For more information or to make a donation in her memory see the donna beverly fund.

Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May she rest in peace. Amen.

"Donna"

variety show contest

2009-04-21T18:57:00.000-07:00

Contest
Name all of the participants in the 1968 Variety Show featured in the above photograph and win
a trip for two!

Official Rules
One entry per person.
One point is assessed for every name answered correctly.
Correct answer must include first, middle, surname and Confirmation name.
The contest is open to everyone with the exception of anyone who has graduated from Nativity High School or is or has been a faculty member.
To be eligible, entry forms must be submitted in person to Frankie's Smoke Shop.
Decision of the Contest Judge is final.
In the case of a tie, attendance at St. Patrick's grade school will be worth an additional two points.
The destination of the trip is left to the discretion of the Contest Judge
The prize cannot be redeemed for cash
Winner will be announced along the Burma Road on some late Friday evening yet to be determined.
Winner must be present to win.
By claiming the prize, the winner authorizes the use of his or her name and/or likeness for promotion of this blog.
In accepting the prize, the winner, and any guest, acknowledges that this blog may not be held liable for any loss, damages or injury associated with the trip for two (destination yet to be determined).
Good luck! and Don't Worry.

Springtime means golf time

2009-03-22T15:18:00.000-07:00

Spring is the time to bring out the golf clubs. Back in the 60s there was a school golf team.

David Letterman's top ten ways to make golf more exciting:

Locate at least one hole on median of the nearest Interstate Highway.
Each foursome must include at least one man wrongly acquitted of double homicide.
Instead of green jacket, Masters champion wins all the other golfers' clothes.
New hazard: Civil War re-enactments.
Instead of following golf ball in air, camera now pans crowd looking for dumbest hat.
Replace Tiger Woods with actual tiger.
One hour before tournament begins, each golfer must consume some spoiled tuna salad.
When somebody's about to putt, announcer screams, "Let's get ready to rumble!"
Replace sand traps with bear traps.
New rule: miss a putt, swallow a tee.

some statistics

2009-02-28T15:29:00.000-08:00

From December 1, 2008 through February 28, 2009 the top three most popular pages viewed have been:

1. Sister Nicholas Marie's History Lesson - 179 hits

2. St. Stanislaus, Minersville -120 hits

3. Sophomore 1 - 112 hits

Here is a 60s tribute

Happy New Year

2008-12-31T04:55:00.000-08:00

before there was Dick Clark there was Guy Lombardo. Party like its 1968!Remember that it is also a holy day of obligation.
"In Circumcisione Domini et Octav Nativitatis"

Genesis 17:10-12: This is my covenant which you shall observe between me and you, and thy seed after thee: All the male-kind of you shall be circumcised. And you shall circumcise the flesh of your foreskin, that it may be for a sign of the covenant between me and you. An infant of eight days old shall be circumcised among you, every manchild in your generations: he that is born in the house, as well as the bought servant, shall be circumcised.

A jewish boy and christian boy were talking to one another

"I’m getting operated on tomorrow, "said the christian boy.

"Oh? What are they going to do?" asked the jewish boy.

"Circumcise me!" replied the christian boy.

"I had that done when I was just a few days old," said the jewish boy.

"Did it hurt?" asked the christian boy.

"I couldn’t walk for a year!"

Paul Cullather

2008-12-29T04:53:00.000-08:00

With sadness I report the passing of Paul Cullather on December 27th, 2008. Paul was an asset to his home town of Schuylkill Haven doing much to promote youth sports.

Paul V. "Cully" Cullather Jr., 58, of Schuylkill Haven, passed away Sunday at Schuylkill Medical Center-East Norwegian Street.Born in Pottsville, March 13, 1950, he was a son of Claudia Burke Cullather, Pinebrook Personal Care, Orwigsburg, and the late Paul V. Cullather Sr.He was the husband of Rita Leddy Cullather, to whom he was married 30 years.He was a member of St. Ambrose Roman Catholic Church, Schuylkill Haven, where he coached CYO basketball and was an officer in the league.He was the owner and operator of Cully's Sub Shop, Schuylkill Haven.Cully was a member of Rainbow Hose Company and Schuylkill Haven Recreation Commission, and he was a Schuylkill Haven Little League coach and Anthracite Action basketball coach.Surviving, in addition to his wife and mother, are a son, Shaun Cullather, York; two daughters, Janelle Cullather, Schuylkill Haven, and Lindsey Cullather, Schuylkill Haven; two brothers, Brian Cullather, Schuylkill Haven, and David Cullather, Schuylkill Haven; a sister, Sharon Schafer, Schuylkill Haven.A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at St. Ambrose Roman Catholic Church, Randel Street, Schuylkill Haven, with the Rev. Michael Stone officiating. A viewing will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday and from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at St. Ambrose Roman Catholic Church. Interment will be in St. Ambrose Cemetery, Schuylkill Haven. The family request donations be made to St. Ambrose Church CYO, 201 Randel St., Schuylkill Haven, PA 17972, or Schuylkill Haven Recreation Commission, 12 W. Main St., Schuylkill Haven, PA 17972.

Réquiem æternam dona ei, Dómine.
Et lux perpétua lúceat ei.
Requiéscat in pace.
Amen.

merry christmas

2008-12-24T17:47:00.000-08:00

christmas greetings.

christmas youtube: 1950s-1960s

aluminum tree

elvis

white christmas

baby please come home

Glasswax stencils

Kent cigarettes make great Christmas presents

even more random photographs

2008-12-14T00:01:00.000-08:00

Above is an picture of the group getting organized for the photograph. If you want to watch a great Youtube concert of an old classic from the sixties, then click the Link: Stand By Me
It is very uplifting and highly recommended if you are in need of an uplift, watch the whole video, even if your employer is watching you waste time on the computer.

I received these photographs from Joan Rees which I will share with you. All the lower photographs were taken indoors except the photo of Sholly (center bottom) which editted and cropped from the group photograph; she is exhibiting some serenity and coolness while everyone was trying to get settled for that large photograph--- who said class reunions need to be stressful? again if you click your mouse on the photograph it will enlarge.

thanks Joan for sharing these with us.

December 8th

2008-12-08T06:04:00.000-08:00

December 8th - the feast of the Immaculate Conception.

It is a holy day of obligation honoring Mary.

It is also the date that we lost John Lennon.

Here is the B side of Happy Christmas (War is Over): Listen, the snow is falling. I think that is the song being sung in the picture above.

Here is the first national announcement of the assassination of John Lennon: Howard Cosell.

on the porch

2008-12-07T06:53:00.000-08:00

this picture was taken on the porch of the Sweet Arrow Lake Club House. Not a great picture as almost everybody ended up in shadows.

hallway portrait

2008-12-03T19:02:00.001-08:00

rummaging through some old, unused photographs (that is, scraping the bottom of the barrel)....here is one depicting Sister St. Isabelle smiling at a portrait of Bertie the Bunyip in the school hallway next to the fire extinguisher. Of course it is another fraudulent photograph... fire extinguishers were on the opposite walls.

40th reunion random photo #4

2008-11-26T04:42:00.000-08:00

Here is a photo sent in by Bill Garrity. You get an excellent view of the lake with a trio of classmates posing for the camera.
Speaking of trios, the maitre de blog has selected the following as the most popular trios of the baby boomer era:

Jimi Hendrix Experience
My Three Sons
The Shangri-Las
Cream
ZZ Top
The Three Stooges
Bee Gees
The Supremes
Crosby, Stills and Nash
Kingston Trio
Peter Paul and Mary
Kukla, Fran & Ollie
Huey, Dewey & Louie
The Toys

40th reunion random photo #3

2008-11-21T07:25:00.000-08:00

Here is a collage of random "happy faces" photographs taken at the Sweet Arrow Lake Clubhouse. Notice how all the photographs were neatly editted. Photography sure has come a long way since the old photo booth at the Trailways Bus Station down at the corner of East Norwegian Street and Highway 61.

cakes

2008-11-18T06:26:00.000-08:00

Here are two cakes that were on the desert bar. Ann Marie was especially proud of these cakes, and rightfully so. When deciding on the proper desert the imortal words heard in the Language Lab came to mind...."Qu'ils mangent de la brioche." "Let them eat cake."

40th reunion random photo #2

2008-11-15T13:09:00.000-08:00

Here is a collage of the reunion. The photo of the waterfalls was not taken at the reunion (the leaves are all green) but it fits in well.

photo courtesy of George Connell.

P.S. The blog has had over 10,000 hits as of 11-14-08.

40th reunion random photo #1

2008-11-13T16:45:00.000-08:00

Here is a photograph of a Minersville contigent taken at the 40th reunion at Sweet Arrow Lake on October 18th.
The number one record on October 18th, 1968 was "Hey Jude" and it was performed on "The Smothers Brothers Show" during that month. It became a big, big hit.
Here is a Youtube video of the Minersville Bicentennial Parade from 1976. I think the video man had a one track mind, and it was not on the bicentennial....Minersville 1976 the video is eight minutes long, so make sure your boss is not nearby when you watch it.

The photo of the group courtesy of George Connell.

Another group photo

2008-11-11T18:49:00.000-08:00

Here is a photo taken by George Connell, who cleverly was able to be in the picture at the same time. This proves that it is actually possible to be at two places at the same time. This version of the group photo omits Pat Braukas while adding Mickey Brennan and Suzie Somers. A mystery that perplexes even the best forensic photography experts to this day.

Peggy Powers was at the reunion but not in either photo; so don't bother looking for her, you won't find her.

If you have a lot of time on your hands you can compare the two group photographs to see the subtle differences. But really, if you have that much time on your hands, go out and rake some leaves, look for some missing socks, rotate your tires, take your dog for a walk...for God's sakes....do something productive with your life....

George will be sending me some other photographs that will be shared with you on the blogsite.

If you want me to email the photograph to you, then send in a request. But if you click your mouse on the picture, close your eyes and say the magic words, "the reunion was groovy," the photograph will enlarge for you. Believe me.

Here is the list of names for the above photograph:

First row (seated on ground), left to right:
Ginny Holley Cunningham, Marie Zambiasi Fries

Second row (kneeling / sitting), left to right:
Jerry Yeasted, George Connell, Ken Koscil, Larry Lonergan,
Carol Felker-Kaufman Scarborough, Rosemary Zitka Armour, Marsha Pradon Baumener, Ann Louise Schlitzer Scheuer, Diane Kubilus Noga, Mary Shollenberger Roth, Joan Rees Katz,
Mary Jane Appleby, Lynn Zula Caudill, Marlain Carroll

Third Row, left to right:
Peggy Moser Hutton, Cliff Hutton, Ed Sadusky,
Cheryl Belas Koscil, Carol Talpash Weirich, Sue Hutsko Klegka,
Marie Messaros Zebertavage, Kathy Gauntlett Palokas, Tom Takach,
Maureen Hughes, Ann Marie Lescavage Wachter,
Imelda Pfeiffenberger Juba, Jo Ketner Gallagher, Peggy Holahan,
Patty Murphy Loeper, Jackie Maley Troy, Kathy Brixius,
Sue Hummel Sheetz, Suzanne Somers

Back Row, left to right:
Mickey Brennan, Joe Murton, Dave Cunningham, Marie Seminavage Wetzel, Bill Schlitzer, Jerry Zebertavage, Don Reidel, James Morgalis, John Salmon, Vickie Centeleghe, Jay Zane, Al Frantz, Marty Eagan, Bill Garrity, Joe Ferris, Paul Steffanic, Jerry Wargo, Mim Leinheiser Tirjan, Dennis Maley

Robert Namiot

2008-11-07T04:37:00.000-08:00

I was sent this obituary this morning. It is from the Fredericksburg Free-Lance Star newspaper and brought to my attention by Tim Mihalski. It is with hearfelt sadness and sorrow to post it. Our love and prayers go out to the family.

Robert J. Namiot

Born in Minersville, PA on Nov. 23, 1950

Departed on Nov. 3, 2008 and resided in Fredericksburg, VA.

Robert James Namiot, 57, of Fredericksburg, won his battle with cancer and went home to his Heavenly Father Monday, November 3, 2008. Bob spent his final days at his home surrounded by his loving family and friends. In fighting his illness Mr. Namiot's courage was an inspiration to many.
He was a retired LTC in the Virginia Air National Guard and had retired as a gunsmith and instructor at the FBI Academy at Quantico. Mr. Namiot was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church, as well as the Knights of Columbus and the Rappahannock Model Railroad Club. He was also a motorcycle, car, sailing, and health and fitness enthusiast. He loved God, his family, his country, and chocolate ice cream.
Survivors include his wife, Jane Namiot; a son, Benjamin Namiot and his wife, Kari; a daughter, Amy Chidester and her husband, Mark and their daughter, Violet Chidester who is due to arrive in December; a brother, Leon Namiotcavage; several nieces and nephews; two grandnephews; and one grandniece. He was preceded in death by his parents, Benjamin and Josephine W. Namitcavage; and a brother, James.
A Mass of celebration will be held at 10:30 Friday, November 7 at St. Mary Catholic Church. Interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Mary Catholic Church, 1009 Stafford Ave, Fredericksburg, VA 22401 or The Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center at Duke, Duke University Medical Center, DUMC Box 3624, Durham, NC 27710.

Online guest book at: http://www.covenantfuneralservice.com/

All Souls Day

2008-11-02T01:02:00.000-07:00

On All Souls Day

Remembering those classmates who have died over the past five years:

Paul Hollywood

Daniel Fisher

Gloria Pauser

Michael Coleman

Frank Betz

Frank Ney

Barbara Valinsky

"Réquiem æternam dona eis, Dómine. Et lux perpétua lúceat eis. Requiéscat in pace."

Amen.

40th reunion - group photo

2008-10-29T16:53:00.001-07:00

This photograph of the group picnic is compliments of Marie Zambiasi.

Maybe someone can send me a list of the names in order and the list of names will be posted.
Other photographs of reunion are welcome at the blog. Send them in....
The group gathered together in the sunshine and sat for this picture on a picnic table that is not visible in this photo.

I think if you click your mouse on the photograph, you may get a somewhat larger picture...

Thank You

2008-10-25T12:27:00.000-07:00

We give a special thanks to those classmates and friends who sent in a contribution for the reunion but were unable to attend:

George Donahue, John Mager, Ceil Elinausky, Mernie Mulroy, Rita Wachter

thanks to Pine Creek Nursery for decorations, Hidden Valley Golf Course for the ice.... thanks to Mim for bringing Elvis....thanks to Bob Evanchalk and Sweet Arrow Lake County Park for the hospitality...thanks to Marsha Pradon who brought her memorabilia along to share with us...thanks to "honorary classmates," Tom Noga and Dan Wachter for helping set up.... thanks to George Connell for taking some pictures that he will share with us...thanks also to those who made any financial contribution or helped out in anyway....thanks to those who travelled a great distance to attend...thanks to those who showed up and made it a great time...thank you.....

Consider becoming a financial supporter of Sweet Arrow Lake

To preserve Sweet Arrow Lake to ensure that future generations may enjoy the benefits and memories that the lake has provided to us and past generations.
To join, send five dollars for one year’s dues to:
SWEET ARROW LAKE CONSERVATION ASSOCIATION
C/O CAROL J. KEESEY
154 WEST LAKE DRIVE
PINE GROVE, PA 17963

some photos of reunion

2008-10-24T15:50:00.000-07:00

Here is a collage of photographs taken on October 18th, 2008.

Remember the reunion held at Sweet Arrow Lake Park?

60s memorabilia is thrown in to liven up the picture.

it's over

2008-10-18T18:41:00.000-07:00

The reunion was great....weather was fall-like, not as warm as the past week but dry and seasonal...no one skinny-dipped in the lake.....the number of people who signed up totalled 88....Elvis entertained for 90 minutes after the feast....George Connell took the official picture....Awards were presented to the following:
1. Travelling the farthest (or is it furthest?)....Rose Zitka....San Diego, CA.
2. Travelling the least.....Mim Leinheiser
3. The coveted SPAM award for first to correspond by email...Geraldine Glunz
4. First Time Attendee Awards.. Rose Zitka, Pat Braukus, Al Frantz, Sue Hummel, Cathy Gauntlett
5. First to show up (the punctuality award)...Jerry Zebertavage & Marie Messaros
6. Most participation via internet....Bill Garrity
7. Tattoo's...Lynn Zula, Peggy Moser
8. The shot glass award...Lynn Zula
9. left over calendar award....Paul Steffanic

Somehow in all the hoopla the award for first person to send in a reservation was overlooked...George Connell will have to wait five years to receive his prize.

A splendid time was had by all

A great time to reminisce and great re-acquainted with old friends or acquainted for the first time with new friends. If you attended and have any suggestions or comments please leave them by clicking on the comments link.

Here are a few comments received so far:

" IT WAS GREAT!!!!! I agree the reunion was the best ever, no one tried to impress anyone- Everyone could just be themselves, it was so much fun, it was great-to see everyone and be able to just talk. I liked having no DJ. The Elvis guy was good, he sang just enough songs to relive the old days and reminisce. I was so glad I went."

"I agree it was certainly one of the best. What was the attendance?" 88 registered with three that did not show up: Dave Toth, John Mager and Patti Minnig

THANKS PINE CREEK NURSERY, 1425 Long Run Road Friedensburg, FOR THE DECORATIONS.

map of the area

2008-10-18T05:27:00.000-07:00

Going up the country

Here is a map of Sweet Arrow Lake Park. For anyone leaving afterwards and heading to 81 South, a word of caution. Pine Grove is holding a large parade and the streets will be closed. Traffic will be diverted hopefully but it was recommended that you turn right on Waterfall Road and then left on Sweet Arrow Lake Road and avoid the congestion. You should head to Paradise and the Ravine entrance to 81.
Remember that the doors open at 1PM, group photo at about 2:45, food at 3PM, entertain 4-6.
Early arrivers should get some exercise by checking out the park...commune with nature....However skinnydipping in mid-October is not recommended for a variety of reasons.

the last photograph

2008-10-17T03:00:00.000-07:00

May everyone have a pleasant journey to the reunion tomorrow.....

weather forecast for Sweet Arrow is:
Saturday: mostly sunny. Highs in the mid 50s. North winds 5 to 10 mph
Saturday Night: Mostly clear. Lows in the lower 30s (so bring a jacket!). North winds 5 to 10 mph.

THE REUNION IS INSIDE THE CLUBHOUSE, WHICH HAS A GAS FIREPLACE....but bring a sweater or jacket for the outside........

go phillies

2008-10-15T15:34:00.000-07:00

the 30th: candid photographs

2008-10-14T06:39:00.000-07:00

The Pottsville Club was the scene for the 30th reunion .

candid photographs courtesy of George Connell.

random photograph #18

2008-10-13T06:14:00.000-07:00

This obviously fake photo tries to give you the impression that Senor Wences was a part of the Language Dept.

hamburgers

2008-10-12T06:37:00.000-07:00

I am running out of photographs...I am now down to a final few...I call these my hamburgers photographs.....this obviously phony picture to the left depicts Sister Marie de Lourdes checking out J. Wellington Wimpy in the school cafeteria. Everyone just called him Wimpy and while he is appropriately dressed in a white shirt, tie and jacket, hats were not permitted to be worn.

The photograph on bottom left depicts an orderly hamburger dinner for Junior 6 home economics class.

Some things haven't changed in forty years, such as the love of a good hamburger. Yes, even the whole family.

There was a fast food joint down on the Boulevard where some classmates found employment. It was the Stop N Go.

regrets from the west coast

2008-10-11T05:55:00.000-07:00

The Blogosphere received this personal note from a classmate on the West Coast who is unable to attend.

It was so good to get the invitation to our 40th class reunion. Regretfully my wife and I will not be able to attend......Please say hello to Teresa DeMarkis, Dave Cunningham, Jim Morgalis, Joe Murton, Kathy Keating, John Dougherty, Jerry Yeasted, Mike Fanelli and so many others...my cup runneth over. I am sure there are so many other classmates whose names escape me, but hi to everyone and I wish the best for all.

Best Regards,

John

Bellingham,Washington

From York

2008-10-10T06:01:00.000-07:00

Hi,

I can't print out the invitation but I shall be there!

Peggy

This note came from York, Pennsylvania the where the the Continental Congress met in in 1778 and approved the Articles of Confederation, the first document to refer to the "United States of America." Enough history trivia already...York is noted for the Weightlifting Hall of Fame and the weightlifter that greets everyone passing on 83. We are certainly glad that Peggy will with us.

Time is running out. Get your reservations in right now or email your intentions. We just had a donation of an Elvis Impersonator who will entertain from 4-6...

Hi from Montgomery County

2008-10-09T06:46:00.000-07:00

Hi...I will definitely be there...thanks for tracking me down.

Maureen

Pottstown, PA...often mistaken for Pottsville, Pa...the birthplace of Daryl Hall....situated in Montgomery County....home county of Patti Labelle and Bill Cosby.

The Discipline Office pop quiz

2008-10-08T06:34:00.000-07:00

Is the caption of this photograph:

A. "Operator, give me Beechwood 4-5789."

B. "Operator, what do you mean, 9-1-1 hasn't been invented yet?"

C. "You have the wrong number...This is not the Butterball Turkey Hotline. It is the Nativity Discipline Office."

D. "The so-called note your son dropped off is not being accepted. Being 'sick of school' is not a valid excuse for being absent."

E. "Is this Angelucci's Pizza Shop? I would like two pepperonis, with extra cheese, delivered to the Discipline Office."

E. "This is the Discipline Office....It is for Nativity students only. Sir, you have to be a student here to be disciplined. I suggest you try the yellow pages."

F. "Matt, I want to put one hundred dollars down on Tampa Bay."

G. "No, this is not Ms. Cleo; this is the Nativity Discipline Office. But I can predict your future...detention for one full week."

H. "Is this American Idol? I cast one vote for...Fantasia."

I. "Barnes and Noble? Do you carry 'Punishment for Dummies?' "

H. None of the above.

35th reunion

2008-10-07T06:15:00.000-07:00

For your information, the number of reservations for the 40th has now surpassed the number for the 35th and the 30th. Way to go. The 35th reunion was the "controversial" reunion held at the county club. As Groucho once said, "I refuse to join any club which would have me as a member." Some refused to attend fearing that they would be forced to change into loud checkered golfing clothes.

Anyway, a good time was had by all.

2003 was the year that Arnold Schwarzenegger was elected Governator of California. Incidentally Gary Coleman came in 8th place. Phil Spector was arrested for murder and the Righteous Brothers, Spector's artists, were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

photo courtesy of George Connell.

Incidentally, if you would have invested twenty dollars into a ticket to the reunion one month ago, you would be ahead of the Stock Market right now. It is still not to late to get in on the action. See the left column of the blog for Invitation information.

miscellaneous photographs

2008-10-06T06:51:00.000-07:00

The upper photo is that of Sister Dionysia during a Mission Club meeting.

The lower photograph shows Sister Jane de Chantal reviewing a book in a classroom.

library

2008-10-05T06:16:00.000-07:00

Here are some '60s girls in the school library wearing the latest in school fashion.

If you are planning to attend the reunion, then send in your reservations now. I think the Book of Love had been checked out years ago and never returned. The library had many other books, but I don't ever remember ever checking one out.

Here is a TIME magazine's list of the top ten most banned books in the 20th century (of which the 1960s was a part of):

10. Candide by Voltaire

9. Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, by Mark Twain

8. Brave New World, by Aldous Huxley

7. 1984, by George Orwell

6. The Catcher in the Rye, by J.D. Salinger

5. Lolita, by Vladmir Nabokov

4. I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, by Maya Angelou

3. The Anarchist Cookbook, by William Powell

2. The Satanic Nurses...I mean...The Satanic Verses, by Salman Rushdie

1. Harry Potter, by J.K. Rowling

Cincinatti

2008-10-04T06:16:00.000-07:00

Plan on attending the reunion and looking forward to seeing former classmates. This will be the second one I will attend, the first being number 5...
Regards,

Jim

Jim,
Glad to hear that you are heading in from Cincinnatti, Ohio for the 40th. I checked and discovered that Cincinnatti is the birthplace of the great 60s and 70s band, The Isley Brothers, as well as the birthplace of Roy Rogers and Pete Rose.
Happy Trails to you,
maitre de blog

Hudson River Valley

2008-10-03T06:50:00.000-07:00

Looking forward to seeing everyone!

Peggy

Good to hear from you. By the way, the Hudson River Valley is the birthplace of greats, such as Martin Van Buren, Pee Wee Herman, and Mel Gibson and made famous by Washington Irving.

Reporting in from North Carolina

2008-10-02T06:38:00.000-07:00

Looking forward to the reunion.... Marlain said that there was a group going to Maroons in Pottsville on Friday night.... Can't wait to see everyone....
Lynn

Finally we heard from Lynn. She now resides in North Carolina - the birth place of Ben E. King, Soupy Sales, Andy Griffith, Aunt Bee. and the Panthers. By the way, the state dance of North Carolina is "the shag." Maybe Lynn will oblige with a lesson for all.

Update 10.6.08: Lynne wants you all to know that Wilkes County, NC is the Moon Shine capital of the world. It says so on the Sign that welcomes you to the county. Also, N Wilkesboro speedway is where Nascar got its start.

St. Ambrose School

2008-10-01T06:46:00.000-07:00

This relic of a photograph recalls the days of 1964. We just finished the 1950s (that decade ended in November 1963) and were heading into the 1960s. Apparently there is an imposter in the group.

Mothra v Godzilla premiered in the theatres that year along with several other films.

Some sports history from that year:

World Series: St. Louis Cardinals d. NY Yankees (4-3)
NBA Championship: Boston d. SF Warriors (4-1)
Stanley Cup: Toronto d. Detroit (4-3)
NCAA Basketball Championship: UCLA d. Duke (98-83)
NCAA Football Champions: Alabama (by AP, UPI)

The top ten records were:

1. I Want To Hold Your Hand, The Beatles

2. She Loves You, The Beatles

3. Where Did Our Love Go, Supremes

4. Oh, Pretty Woman, Roy Orbison

5. I Get Around, Beach Boys

6. Everybody Loves Somebody, Dean Martin

7. My Guy, Mary Wells

8. People, Barbara Streisand

9. Last Kiss, J. Frank Wilson and The Cavaliers

10. Hello, Dolly! Louis Armstrong

random photograph #17

2008-09-30T06:54:00.000-07:00

I am sure that this is just another fake photo; Nativity never had a salute to Andy Warhol during senior year. In fact Andy Warhol was ignored, along with Roy Lichtenstein and even Yoko Ono.
I am not sure if the identification of the classroom students is correct or not, but who cares, it was the 60s, wasn't it.
Any corrections, additions or deletions should be emailed in.

Secretarial Class

2008-09-29T06:30:00.000-07:00

Here is a photograph from junior year. I don't have many details or things to add. Could it be that the young women are learning off-track betting skills in this "secretarial course?"

Here are Dave Letterman's Top Ten Signs You've Hired A Bad Secretary (from 4/26/2005)

10. Secretary files all documents under "D" for "Document".
9. Types 60 words a week.
8. Autopsies on her last 5 bosses show lethal amounts of white-out.
7. "Flu attacks" suspiciously coincide with Phillies home day games.
6. Wears inappropriately short skirts, no matter how many times you tell him not to.
5. Will only dispense "petty cash" to Tom Petty or one of the Heartbreakers.
4. Instead of chatting by water cooler, goes 2 miles away to chat by the reservoir.
3. You asked if anyone called--she said, "I'm not here to talk about the past, I'm here to talk about the present."
2. Every night tries to fax self home.
1. Filed a sexual harassment lawsuit because you asked her to take dictation.

social studies department

2008-09-28T05:37:00.001-07:00

..........................................................................

As our school years occurred during the midst of the "Cold War" it is highly unlikely that the leader of the USSR, Nikita Khruschev appeared with the Social Studies Department.

greetings from Happy Valley

2008-09-26T15:30:00.000-07:00

(I have) been located.

Frankly, I wasn't aware I was missing! But, then, that makes it a lot like the late 60s, doesn't it?!?
I will be coming to the reunion. I'll send off the dollars at the beginning of the month (I'm a pensioner, don't you know!).
(I live)...roughly 25 miles east of State College, along Rte. 192, through the heart of Amish country....See you folks on the 18th.

Gerry (Frog)

thanks for the update on your email and snail mail address, see you there at the lake.

random photograph #16

2008-09-25T06:34:00.000-07:00

It is amazing how many fake photographs are out there.

Here is one that supposedly proves that Ed McMahon was not the original sidekick on the Tonight Show. First of all The Tonight Show had four incarnations: Steve Allen hosted from 1954-1957- way past bedtime for most of the Class of 1968. The second incarnation was the Jack Paar era . Johnny Carson hosted after Paar, and followed the current Jay Leno.

Sister St. Isabelle never appeared on any episode of any Tonight Show.

By the way Gene Rayburn was Steve's sidekick; Hugh Downs was on the Paar Show; Ed McMahon on the Carson version; and Kevin Eubanks is the sideman for Leno.

As for the reunion, don't forget to send in your reservation or response as soon as possible.

latest technology

2008-09-24T04:40:00.000-07:00

This trio is trying out the latest in electronic technology - a reel-to-reel tape recorder. There is no record of what is being said or sung. Maybe belting out a 60s pop song .

In the 1960s, most home recording was done on reel-to-reel tape recorders. While cassette tapes were invented in 1957, they were used primarily for office dictation machines (dictaphones). In the mid-1960s cassette players for home use began to be introduced. While the first 8-track tape players were introduced in 1966.

Neither the cassette or the 8-track were widely used until the 1970s.

research papers

2008-09-23T06:57:00.000-07:00

Research or term papers were so much different back in the sixties. The internet had not yet been invented by Al Gore, so books had to be actually read and notes had to be written out. There was no "cut and paste" yet. Pens had to be used to write in cursive English. A very primitive time indeed.

There are no records of what these students were researching but it could have been:

Will Elvis be able to make a comeback in 1968?

Ulysses v Bluto: Who would win?

The True Meaning of the Lyrics of American Pie

McArthur Park: Could it ever be put to a disco beat

TIA

2008-09-22T06:14:00.000-07:00

Initials were big in the sixties. The TIA was one club known by only its initials rather than its formal name "Teenagers In Action." The group was led by Father Xavier. He is seen with his bumper crop of apples in the lower left.

random photograph #15

2008-09-20T05:57:00.000-07:00

If my memory serves me correct, the walls of the billiard hall on North Centre Street were not this clean.

Again, another photographic fraud.

W. Va. response

2008-09-19T07:00:00.000-07:00

--------------------

Hi, .....planning to come to the reunion -- haven't missed one yet. BTW, is it a BYOB picnic? Have enjoyed the blog site.

"To B...YOB or not to B...YOB, that is the question."

Here is the answer:

The reunion will have beer, soda and bottled water. Wine was not planned. It is a good idea to bring along some wine or other beverages to share.

Jo now resides in West Virginia, the home of Don Knotts, Booker T. Washington, and former home of The Real McCoys.

If you look carefully enough, the photograph on the right will actually be taken on October 20, 2008 on a West Virginia golf course. Jo recently sent this picture in to prove that West Virginia has shed its Real McCoy image of years ago and is a very beautiful state.

One month until reunion

2008-09-18T07:17:00.000-07:00

The reunion is only one month away. Have you sent in your response? Well get going.
$20 is a bargain.
If you liked the class blog, then why not even send in a little extra. It is cheaper than Classmates.

spot the differences #2

2008-09-17T19:23:00.000-07:00

Can you spot the differences in these two photographs?

The posters of the sixties were great.

Random Photograph #14

2008-09-15T07:00:00.000-07:00

I know for sure that this photograph is a hoax. Ouiji Boards would never be permitted on school property. Ouiji Boards were considered magic.

UFO sighting

2008-09-14T18:29:00.000-07:00

Apparently most of the crowd was watching the Ferris Wheel and missed the close call with the UFO.

The nun in the bottom left of the photograph was there to make sure no funny business went on during the ride.

Faculty photo

2008-09-13T06:40:00.000-07:00

Here is a photograph taken of the faculty along with Maynard G.Krebs or Gilligan.

I am not sure, the sixties were so long ago.

English Department

2008-09-12T06:16:00.000-07:00

Here is the photograph of the 1967-1968 English faculty. Some of us had an opportunity to read Romeo and Juliet and other Classics. The English influence was quite prevalent in the late 1960s.

Awards

2008-09-10T07:28:00.000-07:00

Former defensive tackle with the Philadelphia Eagles, Floyd Peters, congratulates Father Gilmore on the high quality of Nativity's athletes. The high producers of the basketball team receive trophies for their ability: Left to right, Coach Robert Wachter, Frank Betz, best performance at the foul line, Joe Ferris, most assists, and Bill Schlitzer, most valuable player and most rebounds.

Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary

2008-09-08T06:00:00.000-07:00

Just wondering why wasn't this birthday a school holiday?

Grandparents' Day

2008-09-07T07:44:00.000-07:00

September 7th is National Grandparents' Day. I found this appropriate photograph of one of my favorite grandparents, Grandpa Munster, with his family. Somehow Sister St. Isabelle is also in the photo. How she got there I don't know. People should learn to mark their photographs. Another famous boomer grandparent was Granny Clampett.

rain along the east coast

2008-09-06T04:50:00.000-07:00

September 6th we have rain from Hurricane Hannah moving up the east coast. As Sister Florence would want us to know, "rain is a product of the condensation of atmospheric water vapor that is released on the Earth's surface."

more football

2008-09-05T06:00:00.000-07:00

Here is a football story:

One Friday evening a man walked into the Necho Allen Hotel and sat down at the bar with his pet dog. The bartender said, “Sorry buddy. No pets allowed. You will have to leave.”

The man replied, “This is a special dog. You have the Nativity football game on WPPA radio station, don’t you?”

“Yes I do,” was the response.

The customer said, “Watch my dog. Whenever Nativity scores, my dog does a flip.”

At that moment, Nativity just scored a touchdown and the dog flipped in the air.

“Wow! that is one hell of a dog you got there. What happens when Nativity wins the game?”

The man responded, “I don’t know. I only had the dog for four years.”

The photograph above includes young Joe Paterno at bottom left, Joe Namath bottom right, and, of course, the classic Peanuts cartoon - all memories of the 1960's.

home economics class

2008-09-04T17:44:00.000-07:00

I cannot identify everyone in this photograph which appears to be a sophomore year home economics class of girls working on the latest in 60s fashion design, with Knucklehead Smiff as the celebrity dummy. If anyone can identify who the others are (or correct any misidentifications), please drop an email.

A note from Georgia

2008-09-02T06:00:00.000-07:00

Hello, All!

What a great site...I loved seeing my old friends in the old pictures! 40 years has flown by so quickly! I now live in Atlanta, GA and am about to become a Grandma* - I am thrilled! ....

I hope everyone has an awesome time!!
Love,
Louise

Louise, Thank you for the note. Our records had you still residing in Pennyslvania. Updating the
records is appreciated. You are now on the official
email list.
Good luck and much happiness with your expanding family.
*

Maitre de Blog

Labor Day

2008-08-31T10:29:00.000-07:00

If you click the photograph with your mouse, the picture will enlarge. At the bottom left is a photo taken of kids waiting in line to get into an ILGWU children's party at the Capitol Theatre in Pottsville. Maybe you will recognize someone. That photo is courtesy of the Pottsville Bicentennial 's book vol. 1. The other photographs represent some of the "workers" at Nativity -the boiler room, cafeteria and office.

The best labor-oriented songs from our collective past include: Factory Girl by the Stones; Salt of the Earth, by the Stones; Working in a Coal Mine, by Lee Dorsey; Sixteen Tons Johnny Cash version; Get A Job, by the Silhouettes; Five O'Clock World by the Vogues; We Got To Get Out of This Place, by the Animals, and of course, Take This Job and Shove It, by Johnny Paycheck.

If you want one last trip to Knoebel's Grove before the summer ends then click here: Knoebels.
Remember that the K is not silent, it is pronounced distinctly, just like in Evil Knievel.

New York City trip of 1968

2008-08-29T17:16:00.001-07:00

Dear Maitre De Blog:
Congratulations on the website, its terrific! Thanks for all the laughs!....
Attached is a picture from our senior class trip to New York City. Left to right Jeannie Rees,Peggy Evolo,Rita Wachter,Essie Gittleman,Mernie Mulroy,Alice Smith,Patti Minnig.

Thanks Again,
Mernie

Mernie,
Thanks a heap for the really neat photograph. I think it is the best photograph sent in so far. The New York trip was certainly a highlight of that year. Who can forget that bus trip? I hope your photograph will inspire some others to send in a photograph or two. Here is a great version of "Sweet Jane" by the Velvet Underground, the legendary NYC band of the late 60s if you care to watch and listen: "Sweet Jane."

M. de B.

INVITATION TO REUNION

2008-08-27T18:25:00.000-07:00

Nativity B.V.M. Class of 1968
Celebrating its 40th anniversary by
“going up the country”

Sweet Arrow Lake County Park

108 Clubhouse Road
Pine Grove, PA. 17963
Saturday October 18, 2008

1:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Please join your class at the new county park in the beautiful clubhouse.

Enjoy the lake, the fall
foliage, the hiking path, food, beverages, and of course reuniting with friends and classmates.
Cost: An incredibly low $20.00 per person
picnic-style food served 3:00 p.m. (chicken Mirabella, burgers, sausage sandwiches, soup,
``sides, beverages, deserts, etc.). Prizes to be awarded!
Directions to the Park: The county park is east of Pine Grove, Pa off of Rt. 443. Turn onto
Shoreline Drive (a/k/a West Lake Drive). Go .3 mile and turn onto Clubhouse Rd to the end.
Directions can be found on Mapquest.

for more information email: nativity1968@gmail.com

Send check payable to Nativity BVM Class of 1968

% Ken Koscil

14 West Lytle Street

Pottsville, PA 17901

___Yes! I will attend. Enclosed is my check for ______for ___ persons

Name: (include maiden name if applicable) :

address:

name of any guest

Phone number: email:

I have added a donation of $______ to help make this a great reunion.

Please R.S.V.P. by October 7th.

random photograph #13

2008-08-25T20:18:00.000-07:00

This photograph depicts a television show being watched by an attentive classroom. A closer look by clicking the mouse over the photograph indicates that the class was watching an "I Love Lucy" rerun. It is too early to call this photograph a forgery or call it authentic.

junior year basketball

2008-08-23T17:05:00.000-07:00

Get ready...Here are some photographs featuring junior year boys' basketball.

weekend August 22nd

2008-08-22T15:06:00.000-07:00

It is a beautiful weekend for Schuylkill County; a great time to enjoy the end of summer (based on school calendar). Here is a photo of Ray Charles leading the faculty in a sing-along. Another doctored photograph I think.
Since the summer is almost gone, why not take a trip to Knoebel's Grove?

nativity wrestling

2008-08-21T19:51:00.001-07:00

There was a wrestling program at Nativity in the late '60s. I don't have much information on it. Whenever I think of wrestling and the 1960s I can only remember the "pros" that wrestled at the Hamburg Field House.
Here is the greatest wrestling song of all time: Wrestling Song.
Here are some Youtube videos that feature the golden age of wrestling:
Bobo Brazil
Bruno v Gorilla
Moolah 1923-2007 - agreat tribute

30th

2008-08-17T09:19:00.000-07:00

The photograph was taken at the 30th Reunion which was held at the Pottsville Club in late November, 1998. 1998 was a year in which the number 2 record of the year was recorded by someone who had her first hit in 1965.

August 16th

2008-08-16T02:00:00.000-07:00

August 16th, 1977 Elvis died.

Here is a photo of Elvis with Father Augustine, O. Carmelites, on his guitar. It is another obvious fake; Elvis' backup singers were the Jordanaires.

August 15th

2008-08-15T02:00:00.000-07:00

Of course August 15th is The Feast of the Assumption of Mary. The photo to the left is that of Rev. Harold Dagle in the Chapel. Father Dagle was recently changed from pastor of Immaculate Conception Church in Allentown to pastor emeritus, Immaculate Conception, Allentown. Time marches on.

August 15th was also the traditional "Lithuanian Day" in Schuylkill County. Three of the Lithuanian churches that were recently closed by the Diocese are featured above. Many classmates went to one of these churches or grade schools. By the way Lithuania beat Russia at Bejing Olympics Thursday in basketball. That victory called for a pic of the grateful dead to be inserted for good luck.

August 15th is also the 39th anniversary of the Woodstock Music and Art Fair. Some of the '68 classmates were there: Ed, Jay, Mike, and Maureen to name just a few.

If you thought that you knew all of the lyrics to "With A Little Help From My Friends" then you have to watch this video of Joe Cocker at Woodstock.

films

2008-08-14T14:45:00.001-07:00

Some of the films that were released in 1968 included:

Night of the Living Dead

Barbarella

Rosemary's Baby

Destroy All Monsters

The only one to win an Oscar was Rosemary's Baby

more girls basketball

2008-08-13T17:09:00.000-07:00

a collection of some of the girls from the pre-Golden Girls age when they were known as the Glamazons and then the Hilltopperettes.

class musicians

2008-08-12T18:31:00.000-07:00

If there's a rock and roll heaven, Well you know they've got a hell of a band.

spot the difference game #1

2008-08-11T14:44:00.000-07:00

Here is one set of pictures which look similar, but not exactly the same. The challenge is for you to find out what the differences are. Go ahead and push the powers of your observation to the limits . There are four differences.

track & field #1

2008-08-09T05:35:00.000-07:00

Since the summer olympics have started, several sports photographs will featured.

Here is one of (you guessed it)...pole vaulting.
Here is a very short pole vaulting blooper from youtube.

For pole vaulting music for baby boomers,

"Jumping Jack Flash" was a big hit in 1968.

Here is the record as "a soundtrack" to the year, 1968.

Then there is Jackie Wilson singing:

"Higher and Higher."

Greetings from San Diego

2008-08-08T04:35:00.000-07:00

The emailbag included this note from a contender of the coveted reunion prize for traveling the farthest (or is it furthest?):

I have enjoyed reading the blog of our reunion.

I am looking forward to being there. This will be the first one that I will have attended since graduation. I live in San Diego now and teach chemistry in high school. Willie was my role model.

Rose Zitka Armour

Rose will certainly be surprised at how many similarities Schuylkill County has to San Diego County (for instance both counties begin with the letter 'S'; San Diego has Sea Worldwhile Schuylkill County has Adelphia Fish Store, parts of San Diego had a recent earthquake while parts of Schuylkill County look as if they also had a earthquake, etc.)

It is interesting - as well as encouraging - to find out how many "first timers" have indicated their intention to attend this 40th reunion.

By the way, other classmates living in California include Jim Franklin and Dianne Wawrzaszek.

St. Diego a/k/a Juan Diego Cuauhtlatoatzin) was the first indigenous American saint, canonized in 2002. We are grateful that the city was not named San Cuauhtlatoztzin.

prom picture

2008-08-06T04:59:00.001-07:00

Here is a rare photograph of the 1968 senior prom, with the gym/auditorium all decked out in its arabian finest. The theme, of course, was "Arabian Night." A salute to Captain Gallant and I Dream of Jeannie are thrown into the photograph as they were both culturally influencial for baby boomers.

1983

2008-08-04T04:45:00.000-07:00

photo courtesy of Larry Lonergan.

Here is the top record of 1983 (updated 1995 version by different artist with a baby boomer theme): #1

Here is the updated 2008 version.

random photograph #12

2008-07-31T09:01:00.000-07:00

Take a very close look. This photograph is definitely a fraud. Paul Winchell and Jerry Mahoney never appeared in any Nativity Variety Show either alone or together.

But it still is my favorite photograph over all.

Paul Winchell, a favorite baby-boomer generation entertainer, was quite a renaissance man as he was the first person to invent an artificial heart, a little known fact. He certainly was no dummy. groan

Maybe the song being sung in the photo is "I don't have a wooden heart?" groan

or maybe "Knock on Wood?" groan or "Norwegian Wood?" groan

Hello from Pottsville

2008-07-30T15:12:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone, What a GREAT job you've done on the 1968 Blog!! I enjoy reading the stories & seeing the pictures.... I can't wait to see everyone in October.

Thanks for the memories!!

Gerry (Glunz) Schwartz

Thanks for the note, Gerry.