Shari's 35th Class Reunion
Guess who has been out of school for 35 years? Yes, that would be me. Last weekend, I had the pleasure of attending my 35th class reunion from Meadowdale High School. When I tell you a good time was had, it really was.
Our three-day reunion extravaganza began Friday night at the beautiful Downtown Dayton AC Marriott with a meet-n-greet. There were many hugs, tears, and great conversations.I found out quickly that the class of ‘91 is doing great things these days. From an elementary school principal, travel agent, coach, published author (me) to someone completing their Ph.D., my schoolmates are well accomplished. We had so much fun partying the night away, I wondered how the night could be topped! I was in for a treat.
Saturday morning began with a tour of our old stomping ground, the newly built Meadowdale High. Unfortunately, I couldn’t make it in person, but my classmates thought of everything. They went live on Facebook as they walked through the halls singing the alma mater. By evening, it was time for the big banquet! The dress code for the event was black. My favorite guy escorted me, and we were all decked out in our attire and ready to party. The event planning committee thought of everything. Not only was the event space decorated beautifully in our school colors (black and gold), it was also totally accessible.
The event started with a prayer and dinner. Then we were treated to sounds of a great band “PARADIGM”, featuring two of our classmates. They were amazing! Amid the music and dinner sounds were joyful chats, then a moment of silence for classmates we had lost, and finally a toast to the class of 91. Then it was time to PARTY! And when I say, we party, I mean we PARTY! From the soul train line to line dancing, the DJ had the whole place bumping. I had a ball!
On Sunday, the reunion weekend concluded with brunch at the Foundry restaurant on the rooftop. There we did our final hooray and took photos outside overlooking the city while sporting our reunion shirts.
In the world today, you often hear stories of kids with disabilities struggling to find their way through school and be accepted. I’m happy to say that my time at Meadowdale was pretty good. Yes, I had my struggles like other kids, but I was determined not let anyone take my power. Fortunately, I was in a class that not only respected me, but supported my mission, and it still shows today.
As the alma mater goes, “Meadowdale, oh Meadowdale, our hearts belong to you!” Much love to the class of ‘91. Can’t wait until the next reunion! Lions Strong!