Pictured from left are Jacob Smith, Rebecca Winchell, Josh Blanchard, Matt Carr, Joe Pinard and William Burner
Joseph DiGeorgio and Charlene Barres
Joseph DiGeorgio and Charlene Barres

Approximately one hundred eighty-five alumni and guests attended the 135th Canastota Annual Alumni Banquet held at the Rusty Rail Party House on June 25th. President Elizabeth Garofalo welcomed everyone and the Invocation was given by Father Roderick Petrie, Canastota graduate of the class of 1947.  Motions to accept the newest slate of Officers/ Directors were made and accepted by those members present.

Pictured from left are Jacob Smith, Rebecca Winchell, Josh Blanchard, Matt Carr,  Joe Pinard and William Burner
Pictured from left are Jacob Smith, Rebecca Winchell, Josh Blanchard, Matt Carr,
Joe Pinard and William Burner

The Vincent V. Albanese Alumni Achievement Award was presented to Town of Lenox Clerk and Tax Collector Charlene Barres for her many years of service as well as her dedication, involvement and volunteerism in county, town and village activities.

Anita Waite, Special Education teacher at CCS was presented the Educator Award, posthumously. Anita was known for her dedication to her students, her contributions in developing community and cultural awareness, and for her leadership qualities in the district and among her fellow teachers.
The Alumni Special Recognition Award was received by Joseph DiGeorgio for his membership and many contributions to community activities.  His dedication and research of village and Erie Canal history has placed the Canastota Canal Museum on the National Register of Historic Places.  Robin Winchell, a 2016 graduate, is the 10th recipient of the annual Canastota Alumni Scholarship Award.

The newest Alumni, class of 2016 were introduced and the graduates spoke of their school activities and future plans. Those in attendance were Josh Blanchard, William Burnor, Matt Carr, Joe Pinard, Jacob Smith and Rebecca Winchell.

Stephen Tornatore presented the names of the 2010 CCS Wall of Distinction recipients to be honored at a future occasion.  They are Alan Burgess. Edward Ceresia, Elizabeth Garofalo and Dr. David Vanderwerken, posthumously.

Prior to closing, the Roll Call of Classes took place, recognizing the classes of 1941 through 1947, especially the seventy year class of 1946.  Also honored were the classesof 1951, 1956, 1961, and the 50 year class of 1966.  Introduction of the newest alumni from the class of 2016 also took place.

The banquet closed with Father Petrie giving the Benediction and the singing of the Canastota Central School Alma Mater.

By martha

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