The IHS Class of 1970 35-Year Reunion was held on the weekend of September 16th and 17th, 2005.  We started with the traditional informal gathering at O’Loughlin’s on Friday night.  Approximately 50 people came and went over the course of the evening.  The “Dorian Gray” award was given to Ed Gebhart, who was a first time reunion attendee.  He had not aged a day since graduation, much to the envy of his classmates. 

On Saturday morning, about 25 of us came to the new, improved Irondequoit High School for breakfast and a tour led by Part Hartman and Carol Crumlish of the West Irondequoit School District Public Information Office.  We were so impressed with the 21st Century facility that we were wondering if we could sign up for a “do over.”  We were honored to have our Senior Class President, Bob Kendall and his family (Mom and Dad and brother) join us for the festivities.  Also present was our MVP in soccer, Wayne Donsky.  Much thanks to Michele Freedman Salamone for her culinary contributions.

The main event Saturday was held at Crescent Beach Hotel on, what turned out to be, a lovely evening (it was the weekend of the great floods don’t forget).  About 60 people attended, including guests.  While it would have been nice to have a greater number of classmates participate, the small size allowed us to renew old friendships and make new ones.  Everyone was given a nametag with their senior picture on it to jog our memories.  There were many requests, however, to increase the font size of the print (time to start wearing those glasses). 

Special awards were given to Nancy Colson Robby for traveling the longest distance (Saratoga, CA), Mark Gabel for the number of grandchildren (2), Patrick Spinelli for the number of marriages (confidential), and to Dick Camping and Christine Marchese Camping for the number of years married (34 on Oct. 2), the number of children (4) and the oldest child (33).  Rumor has it that Dick and Christine preplanned this at graduation so that they could win the big prizes at the 35th.  The DJ stayed over time, belting out oldies and a marvelous time was had by all.

Lorraine Manelis Iwema and Steve Santolla were the main organizers of the event with assistance from Ken Gallant, Alan Cohen, Larry Sapozink, Michele Freedman Salamone, Linda Knapp Weller, and Wayne Donsky.  The weekend was a real success and all have vowed to return for the 40th, if not before.  Anyone who may be interested in planning the 2010 event may contact Lorraine at info@ihs70.org.

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