Where do the years go?  In an instant, 40 of them vanished and we could have been back in class at THS. The year was not 1962 but 2002.  We were at Arlene's gracious home having one heck of a Schmoozefest. We were still kids (inside slightly weathered bodies) animatedly trading stories about "yesterdays." We are also parents, grandparents, employees, retirees, divorcees, newlyweds, and travelers, bringing each other up to date on various facets of our lives.  Everyone had stories including Barry's friend, Ella, my husband Todd, and our adopted classmate, Bob Streeter who should have been an official class of '62 graduate, but due to a combination of circumstances beyond his control, graduated in 1964 [see his article, "To Ski or Not to Ski," in this month’s Trumpet].

Todd Caso, Carol Jantz Caso '62, Bob Streeter '64.

Barry and Artie, happily retired high school teachers, were sharing in depth "war stories" about their many years in the trenches.  Artie is the perfect foil for Barry and vice versa, they were hysterical, they should take their act on the road...please!

Barry Wood '62, Kris Cole Port '62, Bob Streeter '64, Arlene Spark '62, Ella Seinfeld, Artie Port '62.

Barry, Artie and I attended P.S.3 in Pleasant Plains together from kindergarten through 8th grade. We sort of veered off on our own tangent, sharing stories about creating wild waves in Lemon Creek (photo of Lemon Creek, today) .... and how Mrs. Haas used her ruler in 4th grade ....

It is totally amazing how the years literally vanish and there, before you, are kids you've grown up with. You haven't seen them in years, but suddenly there you all are, together again. They are the same friends from years ago.  

Suddenly you are all in a twilight space - a zone that is retroactive, current and futuristic. You don't want to leave this space. Feelings flood forth.  Memory banks are activated. A feeling of euphoria permeates your being. You realize that despite whatever twists of fate have befallen each of you, you have a common bond that will always be there .... the bond of friendship.

Kris Cole Port '62, Bob Streeter '64, and Arlene Spark '62.

Kris Cole Port '62, Bob Streeter '64, Arlene Spark '62, Ella Seinfeld, Artie Port '62.

We are indebted to Arlene and her husband, Dan, for opening their comfortable home to us. We all shared in the euphoria of the evening. We hope to get together again to pick up where we left off.  

Plans for our 41st Reunion are well underway. Artie and Kris have secured the Hilton for the evening of Saturday, April 5th, 2003.  There is so much to share, so many memories, so many changes in our lives, so be sure to save the date. More news on the reunion to follow.

Artie Port '62 with photos, Arlene Spark '62, Todd Caso and Carol Jantz Caso '62 on the sofa.