Coffee Talk: Class Reunion

It was Saturday, Oct. 2, when former students of Fulton High School Class of 1971 began arriving at the Water Splash Park. They had come from near and far to meet and visit with their classmates.

Long before the reunion date, much planning took place. A committee was formed, places for the noon and evening gathering had to be confirmed. Notices were mailed out as to the date, time and location. Phone calls were made, every one was invited. When replies began to arrive, excitement mounted. Those who were unable to attend, it was okay. The committee felt it was good just to have contacted with them. There was much hugging, back patting, laughing, and visiting. "Glad you could come." "You've not changed one bit." "My gracious it is so good to see you." "Where are you living now?" These are some of the greetings that day. Every one who attended brought something to share for lunch. There was so much food to share, food and talk just mingled together. At that time and place, it was a great place to be with former classmates.

At the arranged time, a quiet, reverence settled over the group as the names of each class mate, and teacher who had passed on, was respectfully read. Then, after a moment of silent, personal prayer the class mates were invited to view the memorable laid out on long tables which had been covered with gold colored table cloths, plus a large bouquet of yellow carnations tied with black and gold ribbon to be presented to any family members or teachers who would be present. There were prom pictures, works of art, pompoms, choir and band awards, sports awards, etc. etc. each item displayed brought back a good memory of time spent at Fulton High.

One special treasure was a beautiful black and gold colored quilt, hand made especially by Mrs. Bernice Oliver as a remembrance of her daughter, Pan Oliver, who passed away in 2011. Pam was a member of the class of 1971. In the middle of the quilt was a large black and yellow hornet, the class mascot, with small hornets buzzing around in full design on the quilt.

After a while the group began to scatter. Perhaps for a nap, or a walk around town, remembering various places of interest from the past. They were to meet again that evening for a tasty banquet with a few former teachers in attendance, and more memories to cherish until next time. Perhaps, as they journey home these few words will be tumbling around in their minds. "A circle is round, it has no end. That's how long we have been friends. We will make new friends but keep the old. One is silver the other gold." That identifies the students of the Class of '71.