Reunion 2009

Class of 1964 ~ 45-Year Reunion

Marriott Hotel, Newport News, Virginia

Please share with others the fantastic weekend those of us who attended the 45 year reunion that the Class of 64 had at the Marriott this past weekend.
What a special event thanks to a committed, dedicated and hardworking committee led by David Spriggs.

I had a blast and appreciated all of the work that went into making the weekend such a wonderful time for us all.

A few people asked that I share the opening comments I made at the reunion on the website.

Here it is:

Thanks to all that were willing to dance with me given that Beverly was unable to attend. Great food, great fun and great being with special friends from long ago.

- Norman Olshansky ('64) of FL
Thanks so much, Norman!

Reunion Comments- NNHS - 2009

I was asked to give some initial comments to set the tone for this special reunion.  Please close your eyes and visually join me for a few reflections:

Forty-five years is a long long time and they sure are filled with memories.

Most of us began our time at NNHS as MICE…8^th graders.  We entered that huge building in awe of its history, status in the community, and in anticipation of the new challenges awaiting us. Some of us transferred into NNHS later as a result of family moves or other personal circumstances.  All of us quickly realized that to be a Typhoon was special.  We especially felt that way whenever in the presence of students from Hampton.

We tend to be nostalgic when reflecting on those times.   Our music, our teams, our clubs, our friends and activities.   And yet, those of us who grew up in NN, lived through some very historic and challenging times.  War, segregation, desegregation, and rock and roll-  Then it was considered the cause of corruption of society, at least according to many of our parents.  Times don’t always change.  Just look at some of our reactions today to rap and hip hop music.

It wasn’t always easy at NNHS.   There were sub groups, and insensitivities.  Some who felt in and others who felt left out.  Typical issues that teens face every day.  But we not only survived …..we thrived…..and came out better than when we first entered NNHS.

We came from different elementary, Jr. High schools, neighborhoods and backgrounds.  But we all became Typhoons.  Our class continued the great traditions established by NNHS, its leadership and faculty.   Our students excelled as did our sporting teams and school clubs.

We went in many different directions after High School.   It’s been a long road since 1964.  Each of us has a story.  As we catch up with each other and our stories we should also note that many of our classmates are not with us tonight.   Some because of conflicting schedules, others due to the economy, expense of travel, and illness.  We are also missing many classmates who have passed away……. in wars, from accidents, and illness.  We should keep their stories alive as well--- “in our personal and collective memories”.    Let’s take a moment (with your eyes still closed) to remember (and visualize) our friends and classmates who have since departed   ………………………………………………………

Yes, our class was indeed special.  How many people do you know from other high schools that work so hard to stay in touch?  How many schools which no longer exist still have web sites and frequent reunions with active alumni?  Yes, Typhoons are special and we all continue to carry with us the lessons we learned, the experiences we shared and the friendships we made while at NNHS.

To conclude, please open your eyes, look around this room, smile and have a wonderful evening, sharing your memories and personal stories, with your friends, classmates and guests. 
 

He also mentioned (the wine and gift key chains).  The key chain metal looks like brass in the photo, but it really is shiny like silver.

The labels on the wine bottles are difficult to read, as the text was necessarily small. So, images of the labels are included.

- Dave Spriggs ('64) of VA - 10/18/09
OH, WOW! Thanks, Dave!
 

- Dave Spriggs ('64) of VA - 10/18/09
She always does! Thanks again, Dave!