Well, it doesn't look like there will be an All School Reunion in 2024. I scheduled two meetings to get everything up and running. There was zero attendance in May and just one alumni in attendance in October. I guess it is what it is.
I do not think that an All School Reunion once every ten years is too often. At my age (74) am I capable of chairing another event? Yes. But would I? No, I would not. It was one of the most rewarding experiences I've ever had. But for me to deny that experience to another individual would be total selfishness on my part. I just can't bring myself to do that! No one would believe the amount of letters and thank you’s the All School Committee received following the last two all school reunions! To this day, one sticks out in my mind. It was from an alumni telling us how his parents had the most wonderful experience visiting with old friends and classmates. All though tired out, they just sat down and continued to visit and enjoy the time with old friends. He could not express enough how happy he was for his parents. They have since passed on, but they had that one last visit with old friends and classmates to cherish. That's what an all school reunion is about; opportunities to visit with old friends and classmates.
In my opinion, the younger generations (ages 40-50-60) should plan and host the reunion for the older generations of GHS graduates. By the way, this doesn't mean that the younger (ages 20-30) alumni can't get involved in reunion committees! My age group should not have to plan and host for the younger graduates of GHS. There are several families in the area who like to attend and no one is getting any younger, if you get my drift! Not to mention that even the younger generations get that opportunity to connect with classmates and friends as well.
In closing, all of the minutes from the 2014 All School reunion, as well as all past reunions, are safely tucked away at the Garretson Museum. There are also left-over gift bags, lanyards, welcome home signs, etc. from the last reunion. So, when the day comes and interest is revived, that's where everything is for the taking. Hopefully, sooner rather than later.
-Respectfully, Tom Godbey Class of '68
