Ray Barga, in the center in the white shirt, enjoys the LCC-Delphos St. John’s game at Friday’s Taste of LCC alumni reception.
Shannon Bohle | The Lima News
LIMA — Lima Central Catholic alumni, friends and the public gathered at the “Taste of LCC Tailgate Party” at Lima Stadium Park for free food and drinks.
Some of the participating alumni-owned restaurants included the Milano Café, BIGGBY COFFEE, TJ’s Pizza, Old Barn Restaurant and Grill, Kewpee and Beer Barrel Pizza & Grill.
“This event kicks off alumni weekend,” said Kayla Nocera Zehery, director of institutional advancement for Lima Central Catholic. This year the event changed venues to Lima Stadium Park to encourage people to also attend the football game, Zehery said.
Roughly 50 to 75 people attended.
“I’m here to support the seniors this year and also my uncle, Ray, who is being inducted into the athletic hall of fame tomorrow,” said Mary Jo Barga, Lima Central Catholic, class of 2002.
“I feel nervous about speaking. Am I deserving? I don’t know. But it is a great honor. I’m thrilled to be back,” said Ray Barga, class of 1970, who attended the University of Kentucky following graduation and traveled to Lima from his home in Western Kentucky. “LCC is near and dear to me. There are many people who made a huge impact in my life.”
Father Kent Kaufman was thankful for the beautiful weather and everyone who came out to support the Battle of the ’Birds.
“My wife and I believe in the message and schooling that LCC provides. Being from this community, living here and having a business here, we support local. As an alumnus from the school — and knowing that our children make their way to LCC — it’s important,” said LCC class of 2006 alumnus and BIGGBY COFFEE owner Adam Rector, who donated cold coffees and water for the event.
“It’s a nice community event that they’re doing. I’m a graduate of Lima Central Catholic and try to support them as much as I can when they ask,” said Frank Guagenti, owner of the Milano Café, who donated pasta and Italian sausage for the event.
Reach Shannon Bohle at 567-242-0399, by email at [email protected] or on Twitter @Bohle_LimaNews.
