High school reunion #50?? Can it be true? I graduated from Huntington East High School in 1958 and we have had class reunions every five years. A wonderful committee headed by my friend, Carolene, organizes the reunions and everyone who attends has a great time renewing old friendships from years gone by. Our class, although large (numbering somewhere between 300-350), delights in remembering the people we knew, the places we went and the things we did in our high school days, as well as catching up on kids, grandkids, and now, even great-grandkids!
One thing that everyone remembers from the "old days" is Stewart's hot dogs! And it is probably the first place that folks from Huntington visit---even before going home to see their families! The little orange hot dog stand on 5th Avenue next to the BASF plant (formerly the Standard Ultramarine) hasn't changed since it was started in 1932.
It was always a drive-in, long before drive-ins became popular in the 1950s. Through the years it has added some items to its menu, but the standard hot dog, with Mrs. Mandt's secret chili sauce, and a frosty mug of Stewart's root beer, served on a tray hanging on the driver's side window, is the unrivaled king of hot dog eating!
Another landmark in Huntington is the Keith Albee theater.
Through the years, many a hand was held, and even a kiss stolen, by high schoolers while watching a movie at this historical theater.
Trinity Episcopal Church is the church I attended and we were married here.
Several high school friends attended the youth group with me at this church.
The face of Huntington has changed and a new multi-use center right downtown is a very attractive addition to Third Avenue.
Pullman Square is home to restaurants, shops, and a movie theater. The old B&O railroad station and the Ohio River provide a lovely backdrop for this area.
And now to the reunion...
Friday night, classmate Jim and his wife, Verna, hosted a lovely gathering in their large yard. The Marshall University Jazz band played while everyone chatted, took pictures, looked at old yearbooks, and nibbled on delicious hors d'oeuvres. We even had two of our former teachers attend. How nice to reminisce with them.
Saturday morning, some of "us girls" met at Bob Evans for breakfast---a meal which lasted four hours! Just can't get those ladies to stop talking! What fun!
All of us not only graduated from high school together, but we also attended Junior High together. We are friends from age 12 in the 7th grade.
After breakfast finally ended, some of us got together with another junior high/high school friend and chatted over lunch!
The day passed quickly and finally it was time for the dinner and dance at the local country club.
The night ended too quickly---there was much more to be said to friends. I guess we will just have to get together again in five years and pick up where we left off!
Hasta luego
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