Lily Jo (Schwab) Bradley, Tahoma Class of 1960, created a setting where her classmates gathered. Those from Class of 1960 who had passed away were honored with a pink display that drew attention to their names
The daily newspaper recently reported that people who laugh hard at least once a day will live longer. Statistically, the folks who attended Tahoma High School’s Alumni Picnic now have many years to come.
On July 24th at Mudd Mountain Dam, it seemed as though the picnickers engaged in laughing contests. They laughed “hard” for about four hours while exchanging memories of Tahoma High School teachers, personal life antics, and the ups-and-downs of being teenagers.
“What a great day and a great turnout,” proclaimed Julie (Collier) Holbrook who organized the Alumni Picnic. Maple Valley Historical Society was on hand, with Sandi (Faul) Phillips and Theresa Reese updating notebooks on Tahoma alumni. After receipts were tallied for cost of the covered shelter and lunch, Julie determined that donations exceeded the cost of $250 by an excess of $162. The excess will go towards the picnic planned for next year.
Due to its success, with about 76 in attendance, an announcement was made that a day of permanency for future picnics will be the 4th Sunday in July. “I saw lots of smiles, conversation and caring for one another so I think we want to do this again,” Julie said. “The head count was really great.” She also noted that the large donations of food items indicated that people wanted to contribute to the event. She said that next year a catered picnic might be considered so that there wouldn’t be concern over food sitting out in hot weather.
Tahoma Class of 1960 created a unique setting where classmates gathered. They honored those who had passed away with a pink display that drew attention to names of the deceased. A celebration cake, a colorful sign, and a book that documented classmates’ personal history (updated from one reunion to their next reunion) were all part of the setting. The set-up was designed by Lily Jo (Schwab) Bradley, THS class of 1960.
Fifteen classes represented at the picnic ranged from 1960 to 1998. Most attendees from a single class were 1960, 1963, 1969, and 1970. Most attendees from one family of Tahoma students were the Sousheks from Class of 1960 to 1983.
