Class Loon Lake BBQ 2011

Loon Lake 2011

On June 18th, we met at Loon Lake for the 2nd annual BBQ for the 74 class. We all started arriving at 2pm hmmmmm....*something to keep in mind for next time*! We were blessed with terrific weather for the majority of the day. A total of 13 of us made it this time around and what a nice day we had. The campground was MUCH busier than last year due to the nice conditions. Was it me, or does it seem everyone there has a golf cart? And Sandy, you didn't even get a ride in one this year! Loon Lake on the second time around, is just the nicest place. I think we can see why you love this place Jim!

Nobody went hungry as ample food was shared. From Jill's broccoli salad and cookies, Deb's own recipe of horse radish deviled eggs, Rachel's sour dough bread, and seafood salad, Sandy's, shrimp cocktail, my wife's Amorn's spring rolls, and last but not least, Laurie's infamous fruit bowl! And believe it or not, we did not even have to pry the bowl from Jill's hands this year...;-) We were spoiled well before Jim fired up the grill to put out the burgers, dogs, and chicken, well done Chef Jim! Melissa, I can't thank you enough for those delicious raspberries..Let me know when the new batch is ready this summer, we will help you get rid of them..;-)

A new game we call "rope golf" (officially called ladder golf) took a number of us by storm and what a competitive group we had out there. In the end however, the CHAMPS were Rachel and myself! Good job Rachel! In reality, I think the girls were better at this today than we guys right Mike? ;-)

This was as usual, a really chatty bunch and non-stop laughs and some serious talk as well. I think everytime I attend one these things, I learn something more about everyone. Makes me realize how much I have missed. I am also now convinced Melissa knows more about who's who and whats what in Claremont than anyone I know! She should start up the TMZ of Claremont! We did talk a little about how to work on making more classmates aware of what we are doing and some good thoughts were shared. (Jill don't forget to send me Steve's email) We will continue to work on this going forward. We also settled a debate on just many were in the class thanks to Melissa bringing the T-shirt from the 25th and when counted we numbered 260! Biggest class ever at SHS. Compared to the class sizes today, its a wonder they need that whole building still!

Can't leave this out. In the early part of the evening we were treated to a show by Mother Nature when a hailstorm screamed through. It was just amazing watching this roll across the lake towards us and then hitting. Equally amazing was how intense it was and then how quick it was gone. I think it made us all realize how we are insignificant to nature no matter what we build or do to change things. And yes, we got pictures!!

As the evening wore on, a bonfire put on by the campground was lit on the beach after some difficulty due to the soaking the wood got earlier. But put plenty of lighter fluid and tar oil on it and eventually it will burn! Quite a few people from the campground were in attendance. It seemed the beach was littered with golf carts. A strange sight indeed! Never did see the promised volleyball game under the lights.We watched from the hill for a bit and after awhile went across the street to Jim's camp where he had lit a fire and smores were roasted. I think Jim may have to give his dog a bath this morning, as mysteriously somehow he had acquired a layer of smores on him! No it wasn't me!

All in all a great day, Thank yous to Jim and Laurie again putting up with the likes of us. We all really appreciated it! Also want to thank Laurie's son Zach, who provided us with tunes from the good old days and jumped right in hanging out with us. Much appreciated Zach, nice to meet you and thank you for your service to the Nation. Also want to welcome the other newbie Glen, Jill's guy for joining us. Nice to meet you and you play a mean game of rope golf!

It is one of the nice things about this class is how we make spouses, friends, boyfriends, girlfriends, etc of classmates feel like part of the class and that they feel like they can join right in with us. I know this sounds a little cliche' but that is just really nice, to see everyone get along, meet new people and enjoy each other's company.

Next up will be Carey's concert in Little Sunapee "Aerosmith" Harbor on Aug 14th from 1-3 pm. I will put something out as the date gets closer. Hoping we get another good turnout as this event was so enjoyable last year. There's just something about being next to the water, and listening to great music. I am very sure Carey is working hard to this year's show a nice time. Also, a date has been established for the final event at Sandy's house poolside Saturday Sept 10th. See you all later then, and make it a point to enjoy each and every day with the people you love this summer, they all seem to go by faster each time.

Pictures

Phil

Also posted in the class blog and my FB

SHS pics taken June 2011

Loon Lake BBQ and Alumni Day 2011 thoughts

Good morning dear classmates,

Jim Roy is requesting a headcount so he and Laurie can plan on what to get for meats and condiments for next Saturday. Please give me a shout by Thursday June 16th and let me know if you plan to come and if you plan to bring a guest (you know they are always welcome!) I will let Jim know of the results. If you are not sure still but hope to come, please let us know anyways. The BBQ starts from noon on to whenever. If you have commitments that will delay you, that's fine, show up when you can, we'll all be there for awhile as you know we are flexible. Please also remember to bring your own choice of drinks and bring a side dish you like to make, or you could even buy it. I think Amorn may be making spring rolls.


A couple Alumni Day side notes:

Had a good time at the parade yesterday, even though it rained again!! But Claremont turned out in force to watch. I apologize if I missed anyone as it was really hard to find anyone in the sea of umbrellas! I did stumble across Wayne Boardman and found Melissa and Debbie. Melissa has taken photos and hopefully will post some of them on her FB.

"Accidentally" ended up attending the business meeting for the alumni as I took my Mom to the luncheon at the high school cafe. Did not realize they did that as part of the lunch. Pretty sure I was the youngest one there and the meeting was thankfully short! The theme for next year is going to be Wild West which was voted largely in by a couple tables full of alumni members who will be celebrating their 55th in 2012. Have to say, what a enthusiastic bunch, reminded me so much of us but "much" older!!! Kind of see how the themes can be voted in! The food was very good, and all you could eat, a pretty good deal for $4 bucks! I confess I gorged myself on the brownies which were delicious. Looking around, never realized how small the cafe was!!

Lastly a small adventure, wandered around the school a little past the gym area and some of the first floor. Tried to find the old weight room where I tried to grow muscles, and could not believe the hallway where we used to run sprints after lifting was so short! It seemed like a mile back then! Did finally find out the weight room is now on the other side of the gym. Also found the stairs leading up the 2nd floor balcony where our coaches used to make us run up and down endlessly to make us "burn" after a bad game! We sure were in great shape then. Am sure all the ex-hoop players in the class remember those stairs unkindly well!

Upstairs at the front of the school, took some photos which I will post. To tell you truthfully, things either have really changed up there or I have forgotten more than I thought. Of course, haven't been inside the front of the school since the day we graduated. You tell me when you see the pics. Noticed things that probably were there when we were walking those halls, but never bothered to look at. A lot of Stevens history on those walls. Sadly, while walking around, the school is still in rough shape. Its a wonder how we survived 4 years in there. Was surprised I was able to access as far as I did, but thankful for the opportunity.

Hope to see everyone next Saturday and PRAY for sun!!

Phil

2011 Kickoff Class Night Out

The Class of 74 held court at the Time Out Sports last night. A total of 20 altogether including classmates and spouses made the event. The atmosphere provided by The Time Out was great though a little hard to hear!! It was interesting that we occupied a corner of the establishment and could observe the younger generation in action on the other side and on the dance floor. We did get a lot of looks from the other side from all the "kids" all probably wondering who the heck this lively looking bunch was, and probably marveling they are really having a good time! It was a little freaky knowing hearing some of those kids were kids of classmates! Some of those kids we saw on the dance floor will never be candidates for Dancing with the Stars! A few of our braver classmates got out on the dance floor to show them the ropes though our "kind" of music was seriously lacking! It was eye opening for a few of us watching the kids! It's good Claremont has a place for the youngsters to do their thing.

We had new faces joining us this time, Mary Grenier and Steve Lawrence along with his wife Dawn. Thank you guys for coming and we hope you keep joining us! It gets even better as the good weather approaches really! I hadn't seen either of you since high school and you both looked terrific. it was nice catching up even a little bit. Hope to see you both again and catch up even more. Our gatherings are all the better with you there!

Garth, I don't know how you do it man, flying in from LA and still making it to the event all in the same day! Thanks for the memory of those days in Nashua on the Rivier College campus! I'm glad you can still remember that stuff! Jim and Laurie, looking like a couple who have found their soul mates....You answered my question perfectly Jim, on how the "married life" was.... And yes Laurie, I agree, you can't turn a Northern girl into a Southern one! Jim, thanks again for getting us set up there at Time Out.

Jill and Debbie, pals since 1st grade at Maple Ave....that's almost a lifetime, who woulda thought? We need those 1st grade pictures, I bet you two were cute as buttons! And Jill, that BLT was pretty good huh? Rachel and Mike....We can still see a hint of tan from your trip to paradise! Still can't believe you didn't hit the links once! You did Claremont proud winning those contests down there, who says we NHsherites can't entertain with the best of them! Mike you made me so hungry talking about those restaurants and the food there!

Melissa and Gary, you two are priceless...and yes I got all the texts Mel! Raspberries on my mind too! And Gary, thanks for the good words, keeps my fire lit to keep doing this thing. Norm Webb, glad to see you and hear about your job at Sturm. I can tell you love grand kids too. Paul Colfer, very nice talking to you, wish I had chatted with you more often. Am sadden to know you are leaving to return to your climate friendly California. But I'm sure everyone is glad things worked out for you to go back there as we know it has been a dream of yours and wishes you nothing but the best. We hope to see you make the 40th for sure.

Sandy and Sue, its good to have you both around, it is always nice to see you both. we know its a long trip down here for you. Sandy, you have been a steady rock supporting these gatherings, and its really appreciated. Sue thanks for the ideas you suggested.

If I missed anybody, please let me know!

I have to say I had never seen a stein with a tap that could hold a case of beer...pretty interesting concept! Probably tells you all how long its been since I've been in a sports bar! Maybe we need to get out more often....! The bar is very trusting that one of those steins doesn't walk out of there! I also want to thank Mary Hastings, our classmate who hosted us there as owner of Time Out. We wish you success with your venture there.

Other things.

It was popularly agreed, Loon Lake has definitely got to happen again this year. We just need to set a date and work from there. Some other ideas were tossed out for stuff to do this summer. A weekend midnight cruise on Lake Winnipesaukee was suggested. Also the idea of a trip that encompasses going to the top of Mt Washington by way of the Mt Washington Auto Road via shuttle, your vehicle, or bike. I'm sure there are a few of us that probably could still climb it! I would like to interject another idea along the lines of hiking Mt Willard in Crawford Notch which is a moderate climb, but has the most fantastic views for the effort. You will definitely would come away with pictures from up there you will always treasure. I would be happy to lead this hike if any of you are inclined. Anyways, those are just a few things to talk about next time we meet. If anyone has something else to suggest, exotic or not, speak up and let us know, we are always up for new ideas. I do believe we will also want to reserve a date to see Carey Rush again, as he will be playing again over in Little Sunapee Harbor later this summer. He put on a fantastic show last summer and I bet he will top it this year...no pressure now Carey!...

I got a very nice email from one of Lenny Kochis's ex-wives a Lisa Krause. I don't know how she got my email address, but it was very nice of her to take the time to write. She wasn't really able to shed a whole lot more on him as she had lost touch with him as well, but she did say he had children which was good to know. She did give me a link regarding news a woman Lenny had been living with for some time before he passed, who apparently herself, passed away just months before Lenny did. So I am sure that was a double shock for the families involved. She did say she would keep searching for more info.

I also want to put out the word thanking Charlene Reynolds for the nice writeup in the Alumni Newsletter about our activities last summer. Thank you Charlene, well done. I bet a lot of people in the other classes reading that, will be thinking now why aren't we doing stuff like that! Maybe the "class of 74" has started a trend? Also have to put in the subtle reminder, class dues of just $10 are needed to start building our war chest for whatever we want to do for our 40ith. If you can spare more, please try to send in a little extra. Every bit counts. Don't forget your Alumni dues as well, they go hand in hand with supporting an important event for our home town and school. If it weren't for Alumni weekend, Claremont would not have that moment to shine every year, and we wouldn't be building the memories we are.

Amorn and I enjoyed seeing all of you. Apologies to anyone if I didn't get a chance to talk more with you. We can't wait to see you all again.

Wrapping this up, till next time we meet, wishing you all the best.

Phil

Leon Collins - July 10, 1955 - Mar 6, 2011

Claremont, NH

Leon A Collins, 55, of Lewis Place in Claremont, NH died Sunday (March 6) at Valley Regional Hospital in Claremont, NH due to injuries suffered in an accident at his home. He was born in Claremont, NH on July 30, 1955 the son of John and Rita (DeVillers) Collins and had been a longtime Claremont resident. He was a graduate of Stevens High School, Class of 1974. Leon retired from the United States Marine Corps as a Gunnery Sergeant and was currently employed by New Hampshire Pickup and Delivery. On July 10, 1977 he married the former Mercedita Cruz, they had been married for 33 years. He enjoyed woodworking and was an all around handyman. He was a very humble, quiet man but was known as quite a joker by family and close friends. Leon was an advocate for underdogs and was known to treat people fairly, but first and foremost he was a committed family man and loved his grandchildren. Members of his family include his wife, Mercedita C. Collins, Claremont, NH; two daughters, Merci Maria Collins-Abella, Claremont, NH; Andrea Collins Thompson, CA; five grandchildren, Anthony, Alexis and Amor Abella, Andrew and Austin Thompson, his mother, Rita Collins, Windsor, VT; a brother, Alan Collins, Barton, VT; two sisters, Laura Brookens, Lempster, NH and Christine Snyder, Phoenixville, PA and several nieces and nephews. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 on Saturday in St. Mary’s Church, with the Rev. Shawn M. Therrien, pastor, officiating. Following the Mass, full military honors will be provided by members of the American Legion Post #29. Committal services will be held later in the spring in St. Mary’s Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Friends may call the Roy Funeral Home, 93 Sullivan Street, Claremont, NH on Saturday morning from 10:00 Am until the funeral procession leaves for the church. The family suggests that in lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the St. Mary Parish Renovation Fund, 32 Pearl Street, Claremont, NH 03743. The family invites you to share a memory of Leon with them or leave a message of condolence in the family guest book at www.royfuneralhome.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Roy Funeral Home and Cremation Service.

Leonard "Biddy" Kochis

Dear classmates,

It is with regret to announce our classmate Leonard "Biddy" Kochis has passed away. Some of you are already aware of this, others are not. It is belated news as his passing was not found out about until recently. Additionally there is nothing out there such as a obit to really pass on. I have been able to glean bits and pieces thanks to Paul Colfer who was kind enough to let me know what he could find out. I waited for a few weeks after Paul contacted me hoping more information would be forthcoming from Lenny's family, but it appeared it was not going to happen.

What we do know is Leonard apparently passed away on Nov 28th in 2010 from other complications after a routine knee surgery. From some research I did, I was able to determine he was last living in Reva, Virginia. As far as I know, he has not been in the area for quite a while and don't know if he ever returned for any of the reunions. Some of you may have been more in touch with him than others.

We wish his family well and that those who loved him are at peace. We also hope he had a good life after all has been said and done.


Phil

Belated entry, End of year thoughts

Good morning fellow classmates and friends,


As I sit here with my first cup of joe of the day, and with the final station of 2010 fast approaching, my thoughts are of all of you and another year passing us by all too quickly in the journey of our lives. Amorn and I hope you all had a nice Christmas and were able to enjoy it with your families.


Some final musings. As a whole, 2010 was a challenge for many of us as well as the nation. I can however say that really good things came out of 2010 as far as our class is concerned. For the first time, we made it a point to get together in a non-reunion year and do some really nice things. To re-cap, we started in March with the evening out at the Pleasant, which turned into a danceathon at the Imperial Buffet. We found we still have some moves left in these bodies of ours!


In July we spent a terrific day out at Jim Roy's camp and enjoyed a BBQ and maybe helped Jim get closer to popping the big question to Laurie! We also have some great story tellers in this class too! We also discovered we have many who like fruit here too...;-) What a beautiful day that was in many ways! In August we ended the summer with a bang watching Carey Rush jam at Sunapee Harbor where he put on a magnificent performance for us. John Irish did a great job putting up the videos of Carey's performances on Youtube. Check them out, some good music! Many of us ended up at the Salt Hill in Newport that same evening for a late evening dinner. Sandy, I still can't get over how that guy skedaddled when you went to ask him who he was! It was a perfect evening at the harbor, and again a nice turnout from the class.


In October on a nice crisp fall evening a few of us turned up in Claremont for the homecoming football game. The team lost, but put up a good fight against a much bigger team. We then ended up topping off the evening at Ramuntos Pizza. I am duly informed on just what kind of pizza Jill likes now! And John with his $4 dollar slice of cake! Rachel and Mike, what a great and funny couple you make! It had been at least 20 plus years for a number of us in watching a SHS football game. It was encouraging to see and hear that Stevens sports are on the uprise.


Amorn and I are grateful to have become friends, and renewed friendships with all of you and I hope it just gets better as time goes on. The more time I spend with you, the more I appreciate knowing you. Can you also say, this past summer in NH was the most perfect summer weather wise you have ever lived through? I know for me it was, as I cannot ever recall the weather being this perfect. Also want to congratulate those of you who had new additions to your families in the form of grandkids! Aren't they fun? ;-)


On the downside, we also lost several classmates over the course of 2010, Alice Davis, Anita Methot, and Barret Bodkins. Our hopes are their families have found solace. Let us hope this trend of losing classmates stops for a long while.


Looking ahead to 2011, which I just have this feeling is going to be a really good year. Some things to think about. It has been mentioned a number of times we still have a lot of classmates left to find. Would it be prudent to ask if a goal for us in 2011 would be to try and find some of these people who are still among the missing? Should we put out a list of who we still need to locate and put the detective in us to work on locating them? Its possible many of them aren't aware we are doing things and that we have a mailing list so they can be kept up on what we are doing. Also,never too early to start thinking about what you guys want to do in 2011 as far as getting together. Hike anyone?


I have also thought about some things I can add to the communications part of things, I have been playing around with FB putting together the basic blocks for a Facebook Page just for the class. It seems to be the way everyone is going as it is a great tool for keeping in touch. Yes, it would require having a FB account to be a friend of the page, and to participate in the comments and such. However, you can also view the FB page of a group as a non-member of FB as well, as long as you know the page link, you just won't be able to input anything.


If I do this to completion, I will probably shut down the class blog and transfer the content over to the FB page. It will give us a central point to put out instantaneous messages to the class and input pictures,and video in a easy to work with format. I also like the fact FB has a event calendar as well as a IM feature. I have yet to figure out all the neat things FB can do, but I intend to make myself an expert on it with a little luck! I will still keep up the email list as it will always have a use for certain situations and will be a backup to FB. Let me know if this is something you would like to see happen. I will keep you posted!


In closing, It has been a privilege to have served you as the messenger and sounding board for the class and I have enjoyed it so far. I will continue to do this as long as you will have me, and as long as I can do it well. Again, the real credit goes out to all of you, for without your participation, none of these things we have done would have ever happened. Too all of you, thank you!


Amorn and I wish for all of you, that 2011 will be the year and a really good year regardless of your personal situations for all of you. We also hope to see all of you again and maybe even some new faces as well in 2011 too!


Best wishes, and a happy, prosperous, healthy, and safe New Year to you all.


Phil

Sunapee Harbor and Carey Rush

Good morning class,

A perfect day along with a great bunch of folks from our class along some outstanding tunes by Carey Rush and his band mates made this get together just so much fun. Carey, you have not lost your touch, we need to see you more!! We could all see the joy on your face to be up there "up on the stage again" as in the Bob Segar song you sang so well! I think myself and just about everyone else could have listened to you way into the evening!

Sunapee Harbor was the perfect setting and we all ended up meeting up each other just fine. Even a few faces we hadn't seen in a long time showed up, Tim Cross, Kim McClelland, Debbie Demorest and Jim Hanson! Thanks for coming and it was great to see you again! We hope you join us more often!

After the gig was done, a number of us met over at the Salt Hill in Newport and took over the top floor and had some fine food and drinks. It was really nice atmosphere in there and everyone had a good time. Sandy, I don't know how you did it, but that was the quickest exit I have ever seen a guy make!!!! Kim, I think you should get your electricity free living next to those windmills! Susan, it was a great discussion on the City of Claremont's future and I stand corrected on some things! We also celebrated 2 birthdays, of Linda Bly and her daughter, congrats ladies!!! We all more or less bade our farewells around 9:30 or so and concluded a great day. Amorn and I hope all of you made it home safely and no Gary, we didn't get pulled over this time!.

If anyone else got pictures or video, please share!! I am sure some of you are better photographers than I am!

NOTE: Sandy will be putting on a shindig at her place in early September, details will be coming soon!

Pictures and video attached.

Until next time take care.

Phil

Video

Pictures

Our Day at Loon Lake

Dear Class,

Another class event is history and will go down as another terrific experience for all involved. A total of 18 of us made a day of it on Loon Lake. We were treated to perfect weather with nary a sprinkle and just about perfect temperatures to be outside in. The setting was just marvelous and our hosts Jim and Laurie were just as gracious and accommodating as could be, We thank you both for suggesting this place and making it all come together...well done. I want to thank also John Irish for donating his time, gear and his tireless efforts to keep the music going although I know he was disappointed we couldn't really crank it up! I also want to thank the Loon Lake association for their cooperation in helping Jim make this happen. And thanks to everyone who brought foodstuffs too!

Garth, Gary and Jim really dueled on who could put out the funniest stories...I'll have to call it a draw guys...you were all just too good! It was a nice intimate group and I also want to thank all the classmates for making spouses and SOs feel more than welcome as part of us. The day just went by too fast, but everyone enjoyed themselves and a few particularly enjoyed the fruit.... As the day ended, we were treated to a absolutely gorgeous sunset as patches of fog rolled in through the lake. After the main event was over, everyone retreated to Jim's campsite and we had a nice bonfire to round out the day...hope I did well in keeping that fire stoked Jim... The day officially ended when we all broke up around 10:30 or so and headed out.Yeah, we can't make it to 2-3 in the morning anymore..."LOL"

On a personal note, Amorn and I had a great time and it was wonderful reacquainting with all of you. Real story...on the way home, we were also treated to an extra thrill being pulled over by Sunapee's finest just a 1/4 mile past Garth's house.... Had a vanity plate light out which I already knew about. Ahhh.......nothing like a probable cause stop! No ticket though! I guess business must have been slow last night! And Melissa, I am enjoying immensely those raspberries on my cereal as I type, and yes you will get your container back sometime. Sandy, that grounds/security guy will always remember those golf cart rides! We tried Laurie...to get Jim pop the question...! Better luck next time! Last but not least, still have that cigar Garth!

A few additional notes:

We had some conversations of possibly using the large lodge down the road as a possible venue for our 40Th.

We would like to consider doing this on a yearly basis a summer BBQ, but looks like we should consider changing the month to August being the better month for most people.

On July 31st, there is a annual concert going on in Sunapee Harbor which includes Carey Rush who will be among the musicians featured at this event. He will be appearing from 5-7pm(?) and it looks as if most of us who were at the BBQ will be making the trip over to see him play. Perhaps showing our support will give him more incentive to join in on our class activities. At this point we have no place to really meet there, so it looks as if we will just have to find each other! Amorn and I will be there as well as we love music. There was a little uncertainty on the exact time so Jill will check with Carey and confirm the time.

In early September, Sandy will be hosting a event featuring the pool at her residence to officially say goodbye to the summer of 2010. The final details have yet to be ironed out which she will send me, and I'll put something out to everyone.

If anyone else has good pictures, please don't hesitate to forward them out and I'll add them in. I know I didn't get all of the good ones! To see the pictures, click on the title of this blog entry "Our Day at Loon Lake"

Till next time everyone, "Vade in pace"

Phil

Pictures

Pictures of Class evening out

Here are pics from Saturday night.(Click on the headline)

Summary of Class night out March 27th 2010

Hi everyone,

Just wanted to follow up with a short summary of the evening out last night. We all met at the Pleasant lounge and spent a enjoyable 3 hours together. Some of us enjoyed meals along with drinks. Never thought we would actually close a bar at our age, as the lounge closed at 9! A total of 18 of us made it for the first get-together in the off alumni season so to speak. We also had a call in from Dwain Hathaway who was about to go on stage in San Diego to sing for the first time in years thanks to a different doctor who has helped Dwain recover some of his voice. Good luck Dwain! We also thank the Pleasant for having us.

After the Pleasant closed, a group of us continued on to the Imperial Buffet to take in the scene there as the evening was still young. I think we put the younger generation to shame in that place with the spirit and energy we showed! A special request was put in to the DJ to play our these song from last year "Pinball Wizard" which got almost all of us on the floor. We all still have moves I think! It was a fitting end to a good evening out. I spent part of the evening doing handbag and drink holding duties while the gals hit the floor......;-) (Standing room only there) Yeah, I got out once or twice too....!

A few things to remind everyone of. In 4 short, and I mean short years, we will be having our 40th. A recurring idea which has been floating out there for some time in past reunions is the idea of combining our evening activities after the parade along with finally having our Junior Prom. Obviously it would be a slightly watered down and less expensive version of the prom, without limos, tuxs, etc, but would include all the fun of a prom.

We would like to put this idea out there and get it out there early so we can snag the Center early for the festivities if this idea takes on a life. We are also looking to get an exemption so we can get our night going early. With any luck, the rules of the alumni traditions may even be different then! We have willing entertainers and DJs already among our class to ready to jump in and make the music. At the very least, it will add a theme and something more to look forward to for everyone.

A 2nd thing, just a reminder for everyone, please, please, please make sure to pay your class dues to we can make something special happen for the 40th and possibly use class funds to do things in between years. I know times are tough for some of us, but If you can spare more than the $10 class dues by adding in another $5, $10, $20 or more, it would really help the class funds build up quickly. You should all be getting cards soon with the dues request, please take a minute to send out your dues as soon as possible.

Last but not least, the Dubes, Melissa and Gary have again graciously offered the use of their land to hold a class BBQ sometime this summer. This will include entertainment as well. More details will be forthcoming as I get them, so keep your eye out for more emails.

Thanks again to all who attended last night, it was special to see you all in a different setting. Hope to see you all again and more of you this coming summer!


Phil

Class Evening out

Good evening everyone,

I am writing to update you on the results of the idea of an evening meet-up at a local restaurant during this month. As of today, only 11 responses have been received back. A few sent their regrets they would not be able to attend, even though they dearly wanted to.

From the confirmed interest responses I did get, the 27th was the favored date and the Pleasant Restaurant was the favored venue. Would it work for everyone interested if you still want to go ahead with this, that we just plan to meet at the Pleasant restaurant on Saturday the 27th from say between 6-9pm??

Anyone that hasn't made up their minds about this one way or another, but decides to come at the last minute, I would encourage them to feel free to show up. I am sure the Pleasant could accommodate all of us. Whatever numbers we get, it's a start. Let me know if this is good with all of you who are interested, after all, this is your evening out...;-)


Thanks!!

Phil

Float Build Pictures and BBQ

Doubleclick on images to see full sized versions-Phil

Awesome arrival of the float on Broad Street

Last minute decorating of the float

Dwain and Garth Warming Up

Downtown and Parade Ending

Garth and Dwain ripping it up

Alumni Weekend Summary

To all my 74 classmates,

To summarize up this past weekend takes only one word, fabulous! Friday started with a bang with the building of the float at the Dubes. The weather started off looking like the day would be a washout, but miracles upon miracles, the clouds lifted just as work began in ernest and we were blessed with a nice early summer evening in which to put forth our efforts to build our creation. Work started in around 1pm, as the afternoon wore on more and more reinforcements arrived and the work pace accelerated.

As the evening progressed to dark, the full shape of the float took place and once the lighting effects were in place and turned on it, was really something to see. Too bad the parade didn't take place at night! Can you just imagine going down Pleasant street in our glowing Tommy T-shirts and the strobes reflecting off the Mylar with Pinball Wizard booming from the speakers? Whoa!

Anyone watching had to be impressed with the teamwork and workmanship that was done over the course of the 8 hours it took to put this together. From the sign making, electrical, sound, painting and woodworking, everything just went on in a organized way. Every problem that came up was fixed by the creative minds in our presence. A BBQ was also fired up consisting of burgers, hot dogs, and of course cold beer which were served to the starving masses to keep their energy up. At 9pm, we finished off and some of us less energetic types (like me!) retired for the day and others resumed a impromptu party. (don't know how you guys do it!)

On Saturday morning, the day dawned bright with just perfect conditions for a parade. Our float riders arrived in front of the Moose ready to attach last minute decorations. Our Elton John, Tommy, and our WOWZA Anne Margaret arrived dressed to the "T" for their parts. At 8:30 the float arrived right on schedule. We actually heard the float long before it arrived on Broad Street as Pinball Wizard could be heard from the far reaches of Summer Street

Upon arriving, everyone went right to work, a show of teamwork and hustle that would have made Bill Belichick of the Patriots proud to get the last minute decorations in place. I have video proof! Before the parade even got going, the float got a lot of positive reaction from passing traffic and even other floats. Seeing 80 year old men motioning for us to turn it up doing a little boogie was pretty cool! Who said old guys couldn't be hip! Even our Jr High teacher Mr Al Kaplinski stopped by to give his approval! (Does that guy ever age?) During the parade we saw alot of participation from all ages of onlookers rocking to our tunes. The spirit on the float was just there by the way the back of the trailer could be felt bouncing up and down in time to music.

After Parade Events

The Pleasant venue was great and a good start to the evening. First time ever in there for a lot of us. Great snacks were served and a excellent bar crew kept the drinks handy. About 50 attended this event which was well done by the Pleasant Restaurant. It provided a great option to catch up in a more social setting for those who could not make the later functions.The banquet was also well attended by our class. Mr MaGoon sure still knows how to lead a chorus! A lot of well deserving kids just starting out in life received scholarships....remember when we were those kids???

The final event of the night the Casa De Sol featured another great turnout and final round of visiting. We were treated to a exhibition of guitars and singing by our own inhouse entertainment duo of Dwain Hathaway and JIm Hill. Also Garth Bacon and Dwain teamed up for a doozy of a funny tune of which the title escapes me, but it sure was funny! Great job guys! John Irish kept the tunes coming and the dance floor was filled on more than one occasion. Anita and Brian blinded everyone at least once with the ever persistent picture taking!

I want to just say I had a ball in putting this together. Yeh there were some days I wondered if this would really work out, but my concerns were unfounded. But, I didn't do it alone and I had a lot of help along the way, so therefore let me say my sincerest thanks from the bottom of my heart to the following people.

John Irish...for the inspiration of "Tommy" and for providing a great sound system as a result of his expertise and staging for the float and after party. I don't know how you did that for a living that is not easy work heaving those pieces of equipment around. And for assisting me with putting together those 2 pinball machines. We sure had a lot fun doing that. The audio mix you did for the sound and pinball machines was just awesome.

The Dubes, Melissa and Gary...for the use of their beautiful slice of earth to put together the float and hosting the BBQs to keep us from keeling over from starvation! Also for Gary for his expert use of his nice tractor to lift all the heavy stuff onto and off the trailer. I am so jealous of your toy!! Beautiful place you have and wonderful hosts you are...One of these days, I need to talk to you about how you raise such nice looking raspberries!

The guys in the crew, Joe Andre. Mike Casella, Dwain Hathaway, Frank Walker, Paul Colfer, Gary for the muscle to lift those pinball machines onto the trailer and all the other things you did that needed doing. You all still got it!!

Tha gals in the crew, Anita, Barbara Agel, Sandy Brown, Melissa, Debbie Moody, and Debbie Demorest, for jumping in to paint those pinball machines, and the signage. I think next time we'll use brush paints for everything!!

Anita Delaney....Our artist in residence, for the absolutely super job on being Elton and being courageous enough to get into those shoes! You did Elton proud and then some! Sorry my fisherman's pants just didn't work....but glad that Wallyworld came through! For your wonderfully artistic letter making skills...however, never again....will we do a paint job like that using spray paint! Also, for putting up with the kidding from John and I about your height and the now famous drill joke! Oh....and I did NOT request "Short People"!! ..Last but not least, for taking all those pictures Sat night, hope to get them soon!

Brian Delaney....for pitching in everywhere, although not a member of our class, I propose we make him a honorary member!

Charlene Haynes....for keeping us on track with ways of the alumni rules and for seeing to it our class funds were wisely spent. I know it is not easy putting together a mailing and keeping track of the whereabouts for 200 plus people never mind the tags and photos. The "Class Binder" was a great idea and was well received by everyone. Hope to see a lot more added as the years go by. And yes......I will bring the balloons next time!!!!

Jim Hanson.....for those bean barrels and all the fine electrical work on the strobe lights, you were everywhere it seemed like. I wish I had your energy! Your "hair" raising experience of Tommy was well done!

Norm Webb....for providing your BIL and trailer for the float.You got everything in on time and on schedule. That was a big load off everyone's mind!! Please be our go guy for the trailer next time too ok?

Anne Hulse.....where do I start, from the t-shirts that glow in the dark to the signage for the memorial. Everyone really liked the shirts, they are classics I think! I know I will have to guard mine because everyone will want to wear it to see if it glows! I think we set a record in the number of emails back and forth getting everything worked out!! Please give Ray my regards for the very tasteful job done on the memorial.

Rachel Fluette...for our very own Anne Margaret. You picked a beautiful and stunning outfit, very becoming of the Anne! You should have worn it to the party minus the wig! I think you had that sexy wave down pat by the time we were done! You made the back of the float just perfect!

Barbara Agel...for the nice job on requisitioning Pleasant for the pre-banquet meet. I was plesantly (no pun) surprised at how nice it was in there. I would have loved to have gotten up to that balcony! And for keeping me in stitches with your stories of mowing lawns and bathrooms!! Glad we solved that "Gone to Pot" mystery!!!!

If I missed anyone, please forgive me, as I have tried to include all I can recall. I will be sending out a link to your emails sometime this week to pictures with more coming once I receive Anita's pictures. They will be posted online and in the class blog as well.

In a month (yep, I'm taking a break!) or so I will also start putting something out consistently to keep you all up to date on what is going on. The blog will be maintained as well.


Phil

Last Meeting Summary

The last online meeting was held May 26th. Many thanks to all who attended, it has been a pleasure working with all of you. We are pretty much on the way to getting everything put together for the float build. The only changes which were made, are that I will handle getting the lettering for the banners to give Anne more time to concentrate on her other things.

Again I want to remind everyone we need as many people as possible to help with the float at the beautiful home of Melissa and Gary Dube. I think it will be a good time had by all too!

Melissa and Gary's address is 15 Lynch Place, which is just off River Road between 12A and where Ainsworth Rd meets River Rd. If unable to find it, just listen for some 70s rock and roll...!!

Stats from reservations so far as received by Charlene indicate about 23 going to the Pleasant, and 14 so far to Casa De Sol. Unknown as to how many will be at the banquet table. I expect we will see many more just before the deadline. No matter how many come this year, we will all have a good time! If you haven't gotten your reservations in, NOW would be a good time to do it!

One last request, I just realized we should probably designate someone to officially be the weekend photographer who will take pictures from Friday at the float build till Saturday night at the Casa. I think we would like to see video as well as still shots. Anyone want to to take a stab at this?? For the video, I have a Flip video camera you can use if needed. The only other requirement is a decent digital camera and will enjoy the challenge of putting together our class story for the weekend.

I would like to take a second here to say I have enjoyed working this event and seeing things come together. It's been great hearing from and getting together with classmates who I haven't interacted with in a long time. It's wonderful to hear we have classmates coming from as far away as California, Nevada, etc! We'll have to see who comes the furthest!

Now....Let's all hope for great weather!! See you all in 14 days!

Phil