No Time Like Summertime for a Reunion
- andreasachs1
- Sep 4
- 5 min read
Updated: Sep 4
By Judi Markowitz / Huntington Woods, Mich.
↓Gallery of Reunion Attendees at the Bottom of the Page↓
As the years have steadily marched on, I always look forward to reunions or even a simple gathering of classmates to celebrate happy occasions or to remember someone who left us too soon. When talking with former classmates, time stops and memories come flooding back. Oak Parkers are tightly connected no matter where we live and share an unbreakable bond. It doesn’t matter if we see one another regularly or haven’t kept in touch for decades–the spark lingers.
On July 26th my husband Jeffrey and I were excited to meet up with old friends and acquaintances at the 55-year reunion of the Oak Park High School Class of 1970, held at Zerbo’s Market and Bistro in Commerce Township, Mich. I was a proud member of that class. Jeffrey graduated from Oak Park in 1968 and knew many of the people from my year. We were both looking forward to spending time reminiscing and catching up with people from our past.
There was something incredibly special about growing up in Oak Park, MIch. Opportunity wrapped its arms around us and the city provided outlets for sports and entertainment on various fronts. Our school system was top-notch and rated among the best in the nation. We were the lucky ones, but still too young to realize these gifts or have a deep appreciation for them. We were simply having fun. The passing of time put this into perspective.
I cherished my high school days. The teachers were extremely dedicated, and they were part of the fabric that helped to mold and guide us through the ever-changing decade of the ‘70s. I was inspired to become a teacher due to the passion, amiable environment, and excellent curricula that my teachers provided. My teaching career spanned 34 years, and I loved it (minus all the meetings).
The reunion committee selected the perfect venue for our gathering. The size of the room accommodated over a hundred guests, and it was easy to mingle. People flew in from Colorado, California, Kentucky, and Chicago, to name just a few, for an opportunity to spend time with old friends. But as the evening wore on, it became clear that it was impossible to talk to everyone I desired. After brief conversations or a glance across the room where eye contact was the only messenger, time kept ticking.
Looking at the faces of former classmates brought me back to those special moments in our lives. No one escapes the aging process, but some people are more fortunate than others. If I didn’t readily recognize someone, I quickly glanced at their name tag and graduation photo. I could then visualize them as if 1970 were still here. Graying hair, receding hairlines or no hair at all didn’t erase the memories.
No longer were conversations laser focused on our career trajectory. Now, many people spoke deeply about their adult children and grandchildren. Retirement plans, either in progress or on the horizon, were of interest. Some expressed their desire to stay in the workforce for as long as possible. Amazingly, a few classmates were lucky enough to still have healthy parents in their lives — anywhere from 90 to 100 years young.
I was in a perpetual state of awe as friends recalled stories from the past. Sammy Gunn told me a tale of sixth grade antics. He said, “I had the mumps, and you came over to visit me. Since you were my girlfriend at the time, you gave me a kiss on the cheek. I then proclaimed to my mother that my mumps were cured.”
Barbara (Feinberg) Kronick reminisced about practicing the “Tighten Up” in front of a mirror in my bedroom. Says Barbara, “It was the most popular way to dance in the late ‘60s and we had to make sure that we had it down pat. The song blared in your bedroom for hours as we watched ourselves perfect the moves.”
But at the top of the list was a story about young Abie Seiderman, may his memory be for a blessing. Abie decided it was time for recess right in the middle of instruction in our sixth-grade classroom. He bravely walked to the closet and took out a large ball and began to throw it around the room. Everyone took part in the action, and our teacher had absolutely no control over the situation. Abie was sent to the principal’s office, and our inept teacher was eventually fired due to many similar occurrences in the classroom.
As people continued to talk throughout the evening, a montage of senior graduation pictures and videos from past gatherings were on the screen for all to view — it was done well but was bittersweet. I was deeply saddened to look at the pictures of the many classmates who had passed away. But at the same it was joyful to view pictures of special celebrations — Sweet Sixteens, high-school athletics, and classmates just having fun. It was a blast from the past.
A week after the reunion I was informed that an uninvited guest was fraternizing with our group at Zerbo’s— Mr. Covid crashed the party! At first only a few classmates reported that they tested positive for Covid. Then, in the next few days, the number of cases increased. Luckily, Jeffrey and I dodged the demon bullet. I suppose it’s the risk we take when gathering in large numbers. Fortunately, everyone recovered with no adverse consequences from the dreaded disease.
I know that another reunion is already in the works for July of 2030. The committee doesn’t waste any time moving forward with plans. I’m sure it will be arranged with the utmost care since we will be inching toward our late 70s. And, hopefully, Mr. Covid will decide to sit this one out.
Gallery of Reunion Attendees
Judi Markowitz is a retired high school English teacher of 34 years. She primarily taught twelth grade and had the pleasure of having her three sons grace her classes. In addition, she taught debate, forensics, and Detroit film. Judi has four adult children and nine wonderful and energetic grandchildren. She is married to Jeffrey Markowitz, whom she met in high school. They now spend much of their time running around with their grandkids. The View from Four Foot Two is Judi’s first book.
You captured the spirit and affection of the 1970 Class. Being one of the most popular kids offered you an endless opportunity to reach out and help people, and you never missed a beat. You too, had a great class..lots of amazing kids.
Everyone in your past remembers you fondly.
Please write a novel.
I smiled reading this and seeing all the beautiful faces you included of our classmates. It conjured so many happy memories.
I always enjoy your publications. You are a gifted writer.
Janice stoneman
As always, Judi you know how to capture the essence of it all.
Fabulous article and great photos! Love your articles Judi!