JHS Class of 1967 plans 50th reunion

Johnston Sun Rise ·

“It has been 50 years since we left the cloistered halls of Johnston High on our quests for happiness and independence,” Donald Iafrate said. “Yes, June 16, 1967, was definitely an evening of laughs, tears, hope, the sharing of wonderful memories and cementing years-long friendship bonds.”

Iafrate and fellow JHS grads James Metcalfe, Jean Quaranta LaFazia, Paula Jeschke Munko, Barbara Gilmore Grafield, Judy Quaranta Santilli and Jim Ribezzo this week announced plans for “A Time to Remember/A Time to Celebrate” that will be held on Friday and Saturday, June 16-17, at two different locations.

The official Class of 1967 Reunion will be held on Saturday, June 17 at The Last Resort, 325 Farnum Pike in Smithfield.

“We’ve planned the reunion as a casual evening event with good food and great entertainment,” Iafrate said. “There won’t be any formal seating, the dress will be very casual and we’ll have plenty of space both indoors and outdoors, and The Last Resort even has a pool for those brave enough to take a dip.”

Iafrate, as well as the reunion committee, have visited The Last Resort a number of times and, as Metcalfe noted, “we feel it is the exact type of venue that unequivocally suits the spirit of our class best.”

The cost of tickets for the reunion is $35 per person and includes appetizers and a buffet. A cash bar will be available and a live band is being arranged by The Last Resort to provide music throughout the event.

Although the actual reunion will take place in Smithfield, the Class of ’67 will kick things off on Friday, June 16 in Johnston.

“We will be meeting at Ciara Restaurant and Lounge,” Iafrate said. “It’s located at 678 Killingly Street in Johnston directly across from Calef School. This night is simply a social gathering for those who might want to get a head start before the official reunion.”

Iafrate noted that attendees would be able to order from Ciara’s menu, have a drink and share some laughs with old friends. The cost, he explained, “is what you order for yourself, but this will be a great way to warm up for Saturday night.”

Both the June 16 social at Ciara and the official reunion on June 17 at The Last Resort will begin at 6 p.m.

“So, the time has come for us to gather once again to renew, to reminisce and to celebrate our 50th class reunion,” Iafrate emphasized. “Our celebration will begin exactly 50 years from the evening we graduated and we’re hoping as many classmates as possible turn out for a great weekend. Go Panthers.”

In addition, the organizing committee is asking classmates to share a fond memory of their time at JHS as well as sharing something about the past 50 years. Iafrate asked that people send in those comments no later than Tuesday, May 16.

Comments may be sent to the following email addresses: Iafdon@cox.com; Jimm923@aol.com; bearswp3485@cox.net; pjm-hope@verizon.net; Mbegraf@aol.com; and JRibezzo@CCRI.edu. For ticket reservations or more information please call Iafrate at (401) 521-3838 or Metcalfe (401) 822-2553.