Submitted photo Seated are Ginger Godwin Rao, Norma Howell Fitzwater, Sharon Jack McQuain, Larry Ferguson, Jackie Thornhill Bright, Ron Kyle and Mary Lou Hayes Irwin. Standing, Ilene Schoonover Hedrick, Barbara Smith Simmons, Alene Schoonover Chenoweth, Loren Chenoweth, Marilyn Lantz Burch, Blaine Corrick, Benny Siler, Twila Stalnaker Marshall, Andrea Giambrone Antolini, Ella Rudd Sochin and Shirley Ailstock Bee.

Eighteen classmates of the Elkins High School class of 1957, and several guests, attended the recent August reunion celebrating 66 years since graduation.

The two-day gathering began at the IOOF Lodge Hall with an informal evening of reminiscing and laughter as they enjoyed a barbecue meal prepared by George “Pap” Lothes. A group photo of the classmates was taken prior to the meal. Many door prizes, donated by local merchants, brought more fun throughout the evening.

Recognition was given to Blaine Corrick for sending in his reservation first, an honor he has held since their reunions began. During the evening all enjoyed reading old yearbooks and the many scrapbooks of past events that classmate Larry Ferguson had prepared. Recognition of our deceased classmates was also included with the display of memorabilia.

Saturday’s breakfast was hosted by The Lunch Box where several friends stopped by to congratulate the group. The evening festivities included a baked steak dinner also at The Lunch Box, after which MC Larry Ferguson entertained the group with his own style of jokes. He presented special recognition to both classmate Sharon McQuain and her daughter Barbara for their tireless work on planning the activities to make the event successful. Those present with August birthdays were surprised as the group sang “Happy Birthday” and presented them with joke gifts.

Few, if any, classes continue to meet for 66 years as the Class of ’57 has done. They have kept true to their class motto, “Nothing is impossible to a willing heart,” and proudly challenge all other graduating classes to match their ongoing accomplishment. Plans are developing to make a 67th year celebration.