DAY ONE: OPENS WITH THE U-HIGH OPEN
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Events unfolded as you would expect in any story of renewal. As individual Cubs learned of the impending reunion, the true significance of the mile-
stone solidified in each mind. Each Cub realized that the shared collective experience of a group of impressionable young people was going to be re-
exposed in the harsh light of adulthood. The inevitable questions emerged – am I too fat? Will they laugh at my hair (or lack of it)? Will “he” or “she”
remember me? Crash diets began, new clothes were purchased and teeth whitening products disappeared off shelves everywhere. Organizers began
their work. Jimmy, Sue and George identified 51 potential reunionites and made the appropriate contacts. Their efforts would be later rewarded with
a showing of more than half the class population, making it one of the most successful reunions in U.S. history.
As the days prior to the event grew short, wild rumors circulated that Irma Thomas or Aaron Neville or both would be performing at the bash. Some-
one reported they had heard through a sister of a friend of a classmate’s uncle’s landscaper, that there would be a shocking revelation at the reunion,
clarifying speculation about a “love child” of two prominent Cubs. Tension mounted. Other class members worked quietly to prepare for the day,
with Rene and Lee setting up the golf outing, while Karen, Sue and Marilyn decorated the revered old Governor’s Mansion. With less than 12 hours
left until the event, the Department of Homeland Security began to detect unusual movements in several population centers nationwide, and issued an
indigo and mauve level alert, being uncertain just what they had on their hands.
Anticipation and anxiety transitioned to increased heart rates and awkward smiles as reuniting Cubs emerged from fancy cars in front of the old
Governor’s Mansion. The moment had come and there was no turning back. Actually one Cub did turn back … remember that weird guy, Carl …
he bolted the minute he realized this was not a costume party. The stifling Louisiana heat made nervous attendees perspire even more.
As more Cubs arrived, small pockets of conversation opened, as tentative guests shed their shyness and some even initiated their Amway and Shacklee
presentations. Organizers were nearly lynched when the class members learned that there was a cash bar, despite being bilked for $150 a couple.
One ugly rumor was circulated that Jimmy was driving a new car paid for with event fees. The Neville Brothers did not show, nor did Irma Thomas.
Instead, Cubs sashayed to the tunes of DJ “Bill,” who was later found in the parking lot smoking major weed and muttering old weather reports.