The PHS Class of 1988 Twenty Year Reunion (from 2008)
Story by Jayson Dodge

I enjoyed my ten year high school reunion so much, it was time for another one. It's been ten years since the last reunion. I couldn't wait to see everybody there again. Here's what happened:

Day 1 - Friday
The informal social gathering took place on a Friday evening at the Prairie Bar & Grill in Brush Prairie, a couple of miles from the PHS campus. About 70 or so of my classmates showed up, many of them I have not seen since high school. There was socializing, some dancing (along with a live band) and even a few tears shed. I have heard about this place, but never been there before. This is only the beginning of a fun-filled three day weekend with memories to share and time for catching up.

Day 2 - Saturday
The classmates and their spouses enjoyed a buffet dinner of Pacific Northwest cuisine at the Portland Marriott Downtown Waterfront Hotel. A DJ was there playing music from the 70s, 80s, 90s and the present day. Door prizes were handed out. We also gathered around for a class picture along the stairway by the front desk of the hotel (framed and hanging on my wall). It was another fun-filled night, and everyone was having a great time.

Day 3 - Sunday
It turned out to be a pleasant Sunday afternoon for the picnic at Blue Lake Park. I got a chance to talk to more classmates and saw some of their kids. Everyone enjoyed some hot dogs, chips and soft drinks. I realized I forgot the charcoal and matches, but luckily there was a Fred Meyer store only a couple of miles from the park. With the receipt from the gate admission, I did not have to pay again. There were lots of activities for the kids, so they were not bored at all. It was another great day.

In General
It was great seeing everyone there. I was disappointed for those who didn't make it. Many had other commitments with family and friends that were scheduled well before the reunion. Now with the convenience of modern technology such as cell phones and the internet, it is much easier to get in touch with our classmates. We'll get to see each other again when we have another reunion in five or ten years (or even sooner with informal gatherings).

Photos


Some of the classmates from the Friday gathering.


Dinner at the Portland Marriott..


Everyone gathering for a class picture.


A Sunday picnic in the park.


Getting the grill ready.

Back Home