50th Reunion July 13 - 15, 2018

Can you believe we have been out of school for 50 years?  I can't, it really seems like just a few years ago that we were walking the hallowed halls of Gibbs Senior High School.  Making our way to homeroom or to classes before the last bell rang.  Having  a brief conversation at the lockers or standing on the second and third floors looking out at our beautiful campus.

Where did the time go?  Well if you interested  in catching up, don't miss your upcoming reunion!

Save the date document below!  

 Plan now to attend!

New Orleans Trip: A Great Time Had By ALL!!!!!

Gibbs Class of 1968, Inc. sponsored a trip to New Orleans that was enjoyed by classmates and open to the general public on August 13 – 17, 2014.  Forty –nine (49) travelers set out to enjoy the Gulf Coast of Biloxi MS and New Orleans, LA.  It was a most amazing trip and enjoy we did!  The trip was truly memorable!!!!

Treat bags loaded with 8 different items were given to each traveler filled with goodies like Lorna Dunes, Ne-Kots, Peppermint Patties, Nature Valley Breakfast Bars, Juice, Hersey Candy Miniatures and Lays Chips.  Whew! Complimentary water was provided to offset the sultry humid weather of the City That Never Sleeps.  We  stopped for a hearty breakfast in MS at Cracker Barrel and then on to the Beau Rivage Casino on our way to New Orleans, for approx. 3 hours.  The Casino offered a variety of entertaining events for our pleasure (Dining,  Shopping, Broadway Shows, Cinemas, etc.) 

We arrived in New Orleans at the newly renovated Embassy Suites, located at 315 Julia Street, phone number (504) 378-4036.  If they were saying "WHODAT", we were saying, "It be us, the Class of 1968, Inc. and Friends". The hotel is centrally located and in walking distance to many of the cities focal points.   The Chef’s full breakfast was the best in the city.  Joining us in New Orleans was classmate Barbara Lindsey Oguntade and daughter Jean.  They set their sights on the Friday evening Saints Football Game and for a moment in time, cheered for the Saints.

Thursday evening we went to Margie’s Lounge to see how the locals eat.  We enjoyed the Great American Steak-out. The locals know how to cook and the food was awesome (see photo of Steak Dinner).  Heard the music of the locals and returned to the hotel for a night of rest.  Ms. Betty owner of the venue was such a great hostess.  On Friday they delivered to the hotel Fish dinners like the locals eat, full of flavor and huge portions.

Friday  and Saturday we had a tour of the city, rode the Trolley, visited the French Market, rode down the Mississippi River on the Ferry, walked down Bourbon Street, ate Pralines from the Praline Factory, danced and ate at Mulattoes (Renowned Cajun Restaurant) and ate and ate and ate.

Sunday we departed and headed for Tallahassee for dinner, where we ate dinner at the New Country Buffet.  The dinner was included in the cost of the trip and the food was truly southern soul as was the hospitality of the staff.

Thank you cards, with the group picture taken at City Park, New Orleans was sent to every place that extended us hospitality along the way!

By the way, don't be left behind in 2015, we have a list of interesting vacation locations to consider.  Look for updates in January 2015!

Enough of this!  Let’s see some pictures!!

Photos are compliments of Alvin Frazier who is recently retired and photography is his new habit and Valerie who always look for an opportunity to take a good photo.

Gibbs High Class of 1968, Inc. 2014 Scholarship Program

Gibbs Class of 1968, Inc.  Awards  $5,000.00 in Scholarships to 10 High School Graduates

Each year the  Gibbs Class of 1968, Incorporated host a Scholarship Awards Program to provide scholarships  for admirable high school students who desire to attend college.  

The program was held at the Enoch D. Davis Community Center Auditorium on Tuesday, May 13, 2014 at 6:30 p.m.  Congratulations are in order for the 10 high school seniors who all maintained a 2.5 or higher grade point average and have received their college acceptance letters. Each of the recipients have performed admirably in the classroom and in their community.  Their aspirations included becoming doctors, lawyers, writers, educators and performing artist.  

 (The Class) was honored to present scholarships to the 10 deserving high school seniors who have committed to seeking undergraduate degrees.  The students were selected from local high schools; three from Gibbs High (Antwan Fuller, Jalen Williams and Jerosan Fletcher) one  each from Boca Ciega High School (Kendra Delaney), Canterbury School of Florida (Hydeia Thomas), Lakewood High School (LaVanja Peterson), Osceola Fundamental High School (Syndee Peterman) and St. Petersburg High School (Brinesha Myrick).  Two scholarship recipients were awarded to seniors who lived in Central and on the East Coast of Florida. They were from William R. Boone High School, Orlando FL (Ajah Deloach) and  Bayside High School, Palm Bay, FL (Judienne Archer).  Graduates received Acceptance Letters from the following Universities:  Florida A&M Univeristy, Alabama State University, Clark Atlanta University, Florida State University, Howard University, Florida Memorial University, University of North Florida, University of Utah and St. Petersburg College.

Over 80 people shared in the Scholarship Awards Program. Those in attendance to celebrate with the honorees were their parents, family and friends along with the Gibbs Class of 1968 Board of Directors and members.   During the program each scholarship recipient received an award in the amount of $500.00.   The recipients were encouraged to do their best in college and to become a contributing member of society.  Program participants included, Kaleb Ash (a 2013 scholarship recipient) who provided the music for the evening.  Kendra Delaney, sang two songs and shared with us her inspiring story of being able to graduate on time, after missing an entire semester of high school after the loss of her mother. Alvin Frazier, Class Chaplain, whose granddaughter, Ajah Deloach received a scholarship and will be attending his college alma mater, gave spiritual advice to the graduates.  Each graduate was given a copy of the poem ‘Myself’ by Edgar Albert Guest, recited by Barbara J. Stockton. The poem challenged the graduates to live a productive life that would make them proud of themselves.  An audio visual presentation, by Valerie B. Williams, entitled “Bridging the Gap” highlighted reflections of The Class of 1968 from 1968 to 2014. The presentation emphasized the importance of class unity and community service throughout their lives.   The Mistress of Ceremony was the class president, Sylvia Wells-Moore, who also provided the graduates with encouraging remarks.  Photo Ops, Refreshments and Fellowship culminated the evening.

Scholarship awards are funded by The Class Holiday Extravaganza and applications are accepted each Spring for consideration.  Over the past 36 years the class has presented scholarship awards to high school graduates attending local schools.  Scholarship awards are based on the senior’s grades, personal references and The Class of 1968 Board of Directors’ recommendation.

The Class is a non-profit organization whose motto is “To Whom Much is Given, Much is Required”.

Photos from the event:

45th Reunion Powerpoint Presentation: Love, Peace and Happiness

It's been a long time coming, however, it's finally here for anyone who may want to take the stroll down memory lane.  This is the powerpoint presentation that was shown during our Saturday evening reunion gala.

This is our first time posting a slide show so if problems are incurred don't hesitate to let me know so they can be resolved.

Couple of points:  The fonts (lettering changed during the upload) and you will have to click it to advance the slides.  I'll work on that feature later.  Also if you want to view it larger, click on the little square arrows in the lower right hand corner next to the number of slides.  Good luck and know that I gave it 'the old college try'.

ENJOY!

            

2014 Holiday Extravaganza December 21, 2013

Happy Holiday!

Are you ready for another fantastic evening of fun and fellowship?  Please see the flyer below for details.  We look forward to seeing each of you and celebrating the holidays with you and your family and friends!

Memorial for Two Fallen Classmates

"Sunset and evening tide and one last call for me and may there be no mourning at the bar, when I put out to sea".  Lyrics by Alfred Lord Tennyson as he comptemplates death. 

We know that life is short and we did not come here to stay, so we try to do our best each day.  We think of our classmates who or far and near, and think of friendships that are dear.  It is with regret that we must say bid them farewell; it's the good things about them that we will remember to tell. (VBW)

45th Reunion Rated As One of the Best!!!!!!!!

Unquestionably, the Gibbs Class of 1968, Inc. 45th Reunion rocked!!!!!!  That's the word about town and that's the word from all who attended.  We are ever mindful that we have been blessed to have the favor of God shine upon us in all that we do.  We ask the question, how else could we have hosted such an awesome event? We lived up to the Reunion theme, Celebrating Love, Peace and Happiness.

First, who has ever heard of having 4 divine nights of fellowship, food and fun for a mere $65.00 per person.  Well if you were there, then you know that it's true.  Thanks to the committed Board of Directors we were able to seamlessly work together to get the job done.  We were able to keep the expenses at an all time low by monitoring our expenses, yet not sacrificing our community benevolence.  We were still able to provide scholarships in the amount of $500.00 to 10 deserving high school graduates.  We fully

understand 'To whom much is given, much is required'.  To this end, we were able to subsidize the reunion registration fee with funds from our treasury, making it possible for everyone to attend. The registration fee covered ALL food and the reunion souvenir.  The weekend of events was attended by 103 classmates and nearly 100 family and friends guest.  Classmates ventured from up and down the coast of the United States to share in the 45th Reunion Celebration.  The reunion banner was a culmination of everything that reflects who we are, from our meager beginning to our beloved deceased classmates.

Thursday, July 11th - "So Glad to See You Welcome Reception"

Thursday evening, June 11 began  at the Magnuson Marina Cove Resort with a beautifully adorned Tropical decor room.  The theme for the Greet and Meet Welcome Reception, was "So Glad to See You"  Everyone was dressed in Tropical Attire.  There was a full buffet with two main en tree's,  Talapia and a Round Roast Carving Station, manned by the Chef.  There were sides to compliment.  We had much fun looking at the name tags that had our school picture on them.  My had we changed!  What Fun!  The music was provided by DJ Rhymes and he played a cool mix of music.  The evening continued with door prizes,  and a Hula-Hoop and Limbo contest.  It was certainly good to see everyone.  The room was filled with the sound of laughter as 'the Old Soul Train' line lit up the floor.  Love, Peace and Happiness!

Friday, July 12th - "Celebrating the Deuces:  Strolling Down Memory Lane"

This day found us at the newly renovated Manhattan Casino.  It was certainly a time to remember.  There were echoes of 22nd Street South from back in the day.   The newly decorated venue was completed just in time for our event.  As it would turn out, we were the very first organization to christen the building.  We were on hand as the final touches were being made; we saw the hanging of the Manhattan Casino marquee, the Fire Marshal walk through and watched patiently as the last dust was being whisked away.  The venue is in every word 'beautiful and modern'; the chairs and tables are elegant, the chandeliers stylish and the  hardwood floor is brilliant. We were honored to have the opportunity to host our event in the newly renovated location.  Our hats are tipped to Aracle Reality LLC. (Larry and Betty Newsome) for making this evening a reality.

 The Company Band, formerly aka 'The Childs of Friendship' provided the Big Band sound.  Genie Boy and Phil Hill were on hand to give the evening an Old School aurora.  The food was indicative of those food joints that were prominent in the '60's.  Geeches' Bar-B-Que and  Sno-Peak were the two establishments we highlighted.  Ribs and sides of macaroni and cheese, chicken and rice, hot dogs and buns,  and baked beans were prepared by 'Newsome Catering' (no relation to Larry and Betty Newsome).  Popeye's Chicken provided the chicken for our Sno-Peak meal.  We could not have had a successful evening without the assistance of Gravely's Catering Service that provided professional servers and food management.  Door prizes were awarded to the lucky winners.

Upon walking into the grand room one could not help but see the blue and gold balloons on the tables along with the themed 'Celebrating the Deuces' vases that contained the balloons.  We had a blast.  Love, Peace and Happiness!

On Saturday some classmates attended the Gibbs Alumni Cookout held annually at Dell Holmes Park while others of us prepared for the Saturday evening event at the Hilton Bayfront in Downtown St. Pete.

Saturday, July 13th - "A Celebration of Love, Peace and Happiness"

Exquiste is the only word that can describe Saturday evening's, "A Celebration of Love, Peace and Happiness" held in the Grand Bay Ballroom of the Hilton Bayfront Resort.  The evening was magical as everyone, dressed in regal attire,  celebrated being back together again.  The Grand Ballroom was filled with bronze twirled tables and white contoured seat covers with royal blue chair bands.  It was sheer upscale elegance. The centerpieces were just as stunning as the room itself.   Personalize programs and table meal tents were issued to each guest along with the classmates receiving their prized souvenir, the blue and gold, Class of 1968 stole. 

DJ One Love, Mike Boykins, played soulful smooth grooves for the guest as the class prepared for their photo shoot.  After the class photo shoot, the evening began with the President's Message.  Then the Welcome was given.  In an effort to have other classmates participate on the program, the Occasion was given by 5 different persons, representing, out of state guest, classmates attending for the first time, extended classmates and of course a member from the Gibbs Class of 1968.    The Chaplain gave a spirited invocation and blessed the food for the evening.  Our meal took top awards; guest had the choice of honey glazed salmon or chicken piccata.  Both were scrumptious.  Desert was key lime pie or strawberry cheesecake.

The evening continued with a dynamic slideshow that highlight the class events over the years, from our very first reunion,  to holiday extravaganzas to worshipping services to all that makes us what we are today.  It was truly a reflection of time.  No event is complete unless we pay tribute to our deceased classmates.  A moving tribute and a roll call of deceased classmates was rendered to commemorate those who passed since our last reunion in 2008.  Love, Peace and Happiness!

Sunday, July 14th - "A Time to Remember: A Time to Praise"

Sunday Service at the Magnuson Hotel was inspiring and spiritually grounded.  Classmates were asked to wear black attire so that we could take a picture with our souvenir stoles.  Almost everyone wore black and the photo shoot,  taken after the service, looked awesome.  You be the judge!

After a spirit-filled Praise Service, a solo was song and then the speaker of the hour, Rev. Alvin Miller,  gave us an uplifting message that echoed our belief that God continues to show us favor.  There was lots of food and lots of love  The Sunday Service was open for family members to attend.  We were pleased to have the Gibbs Class of 1963 (10 members) share in our  weekend of celebration along with other invited guest.  At the conclusion of the day, a gift certificate for a weekend at the Magnuson Marina Cove Resort was won by one lucky couple, Jimmy and Sylvia Pritchett.

We thank our God for every remembrance of you. We thank each of you for making the Reunion an Unbelievable success.   May you continue to find  strength in Him whom all love abides.  Go Safe and Be Well!

All photos courtesy of Class Photographer   G. Pop Lancaster

Remembering Our Loved Ones and Classmates

While thinking about all of the classmates and family that have gone on before us, I ran across this poem.  May it remind us of things to come and that the broken chain will be whole again when the Master is done.

The Broken Chain

 

 

45th Year Reunion Brochure Coming Your Way

G reetings classmates and friends, please know that the Board is working hard at planning the best and most economical reunion yet!   Four days of activities including meals and souvenirs for the class, all for $65.00 per person.   Look for your brochure and registration form in your mailbox the week of March 15, 2013.

Hope you can make it to this grand event!

Mark your calendar now and plan to attend, July 11-14, 2013!

Remembering Nathaniel 'Nate' Downie

We know not the day or the hour.  Here today and gone tomorrow.  Life is swift.  We have to mourn yet another classmate who took flight on February 22, 2013.  Nate is the third classmate in 2013 that we have lost.

There was not a Wake Service, the Class bought a large green plant and delivered to Lawson Funeral Home in his honor.   Rest in peace, dearly departed!

Judith Harris Butler Deceased

Judith Harris-Butler, our classmate and friend was called to her place of eternal rest.  We are saddened again by the departure of yet another classmate.  Ours is not to wonder or question why, ours is but to be ready when we are called to die.

 

Rest in peace, dearly departed, Judith Harris-Butler!

Alvin J. Frazier Deacon Ordination Service

We are pleased to annouce on behalf of Alvin Frazier and the St. Mark Missionary Baptist Church his Deacon's Ordination Service.  To God Be The Glory!  You are welcome to attend this joyous celebration.

Acts 14:23 reads "And when they had ordained them elders in every church, and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed."  

                    
                        Congratualions Alvin on your new walk of faith!  Please see invite below.

Earl Miller Deceased December 25, 2012

As another year dawns, we have yet loss another classmate in 2012.  We are reminded to be the best we can whenever we can; because we know not the day nor the hour.  Another classmate has taken flight and it is a staunch reminder that we can not take any day for granted.

A donation from the class was extended to the family, per their request in lieu of flowers.

Remembering Earl Miller

A Proud Class Supports A Humble Alvin 'Big Man' Frazier

Alvin Frazier Inducted into Gibbs High School Hall of Fame

What a wonderful celebration of accomplishment!  Our very own Alvin Frazier, along with 11 others, was inducted into the Gibbs High School Hall of Fame on Tuesday December 18, 2012.  The event was a huge success and very well attended.

 

The evening kicked off with a reception in the atrium of the auditorium that had been setup with the personal artifacts of Gibbs Alumnist Minson Rubin, Historian.  Huge pictorial panels of the glorious days gone by were prominently displayed for all to see along with a artist rendering of the original Gibbs building. The pictorial displays served as the perfect conversation piece as friends and former athletics reminisced about that awesome play, perfect pass, or manficent coach.  

Family, friends and food complimented the evening as a melodious jazz band played in the background.  The Gibbs Class of 1968, Inc. supports their own; once the word was out, the Board unanimously decided we would be in attendance.  We attended and wore one of four Class of 1968 polo shirts to show our support.  Alvin's family turned out in huge numbers as well.  We all were very proud of Alvin's accomplishment.

 

After a bit of socializing, we were ushered into the auditorium where the Induction Ceremony was held.  Each inductee's bio was read and they provided a response.  There was banter about who had the best graduating class, however, we know it was the Gibbs Senior High Class of 1968, Inc!  

 

The evening ended on a high note by encouraging the community to support it's alma mater and  by thanking each and everyone for their support!

 

Congratulations Alvin!

 

Memorable Moments

Alvin Frazier to be Inducted into Gibbs High School Hall of Fame

We are pleased that our classmate will be inducted into the Gibbs High School Athletic Hall of Fame on Tuesday, December 18, 2012 at 5:30 p.m. in the auditorium and will be recognized  again at halftime during the basketball game on that evening.  Please join us in commending Alvin on his accomplishment and I'm sure Alvin would love to have you share in this momentuous occasion.

Alvin J. Frazier

Born April 5, 1950; in St. Petersburg, FL.  Alvin J. Frazier is the youngest son of the late Deacon Johnnie Frazier & Mattie L. Frazier.  At an early age Alvin learned the importance of an education from his mother. She was the one who planted the seed of learning and stressed the importance of getting an education.  Alvin’s older brothers, Elijah & Johnny L. Frazier, both athletes and graduates of Gibbs; both motivated him to hone his talents on the court. While his mother’s dream of becoming a teacher inspired Alvin to challenge himself academically.  But it was his years at Gibbs High School that allowed Alvin to incorporate his family influences and pave the road for the man he is today. 

In 1966 the inception of desegregation had begun for Pinellas County, a defining year for Alvin since many black students were choosing to leave Gibbs in hopes of “new experiences”.  But Alvin made the choice to continue his education at Gibbs High.  There he excelled in sports playing on both the Basketball and football teams.  That same year Alvin was introduced to coach Freddie Dyles, Gibbs basketball coach.  Coach Dyles reiterated the importance of responsibility, teamwork and always keeping a “winning attitude”.  Coach Dyles philosophies lead Gibbs to win their first district, regional and state championship in the newly integrated division. 

But it wasn’t just sports that Alvin J. Frazier excelled in; he was just as dedicated to his studies as he was his team(s).  Gibbs High School also introduced Alvin to Principal Emanuel Stewart, the man who “made you feel like it was an honor to be a Gladiator.”  Principal Stewart encouraged Alvin to acquire the “total educational experience”; he emphasized that a quality leader is to not only be athletic, but intelligent, responsible and a part of one’s community.

In 1968, Alvin graduated from Gibbs in the top 30% of his class with a four year scholarship to Clark College in Atlanta, GA.  Alvin went on to receive his B.A. in Business Administration with a minor in economics in 1972.  Shortly after college Alvin married his high school sweetheart, Joyce Miller Frazier. The couple has two daughters, Diana & Mona Frazier, and five grandchildren.  For the past 32 years Alvin has been a Professional Sales & Service Agent with American National Insurance Co.  In 2008, Alvin retired from the St. Petersburg Times where he gave 28 years of his service. 

Today Alvin gives back to the community through the various boards and committees he serves.  As a member of St. Mark M.B. Church for the past 20 years, Alvin is on the Board of Trustees and a Chairman of the Finance Committee.  Another board Alvin serves on, one which is near and dear to his heart, is Gibbs High, Class of 1968; where he is a Board Member and also Chaplain.  Alvin believes it was his “total educational experience” at Gibbs High School that formed the foundation for his success in life.

"God has smiled on us.  Let us enjoy and be thankful for his many blessings.  There is purpose in our lives and we make a difference in the world."

-Alvin J. (BIGMAN) Frazier

 

 

45th Reunion Celebration July 11-14, 2013

Greetings Classmates,
It's been nearly 45 years since we walked across the stage of our Alma Mater with dilploma in hand.  Gee, where has the time gone?  Ready to "remember when" and celebrate?  Great!  Awesome!

We are planning now for a wonderful and affordable 45th Reunion Celebration.  Let us know your thoughts and ideas.  Just as a side bar, the Reunion is always subsidized by the funds from our Holiday Extravaganza, making it the most affordable event ever.
 


                Hope that you will plan now to attend, it will be a joy to see each of you!

2012 Holiday Extravaganza 12/22/2012

Are you looking forward to our upcoming Holiday Gala?  Well, I sure hope so.  It's the perfect time to meet and greet one another during the holiday season.  It would be so nice to have you there along with your family and friends. 

Classmates, we will be going on the floor for our annual photo shot at 9:30 p.m. sharp.  We would like to see you in the photo, so mark it now and plan to be there.

Diamond Birthday Bash - Celebrating 60 Years of Love and Blessings

GHS 1968 Class Logo

Who's to say that being 60 is no fun or is being old.  Definitely not the Gibbs Class of 1968, Inc.  We have single-handily redefined being 60 as the now generation.  Think I am kidding, just check out the slideshow below that demostrates 'this is how we roll'.

The event was the brainchild of one of the members on the Board of Directors to celebrate us; and we did July 16th - 18th.   Since the diamond is the jewel for 60, we decided upon black, white and silver for our colors and the theme was "Celebrating Sixty Years of Love and Blessings".  The Diamond Birthday Bash (DBB) was a 3 day 4 event affair:  Friday Night Pool Party, Saturday Alumni Cookout, Saturday Night Dinner Dance and a Sunday Praise Service and Dinner.  Do we know how to host an event or not?  Really now!

The weekend started with a pool party at the home of one of our classmates.  The theme was "The Party Starts Here".  It was definitely like the 'ole school' house parties that we remember but with lots of style.  A DJ played a mix bag of music as we danced around the pool and worked on the details of the next night events.  Food was not an object; there were traces of New Orleans Spicy Red Beans, Sausage and Rice, Hot, Sweet and Spicy Wing Trays, Chips and Dips and Beverages to quench your thirst.  

We kept the patio popping with the 'wobble-wobble' line dance.  There were those who had not forgotten how to Swing, also.  As the sultry evening heated up we reminisced about days gone by and chattered about the next day activities, the cookout and dinner dance.  After a group photo with legs dangling in the pool we prepared to leave only to look forward to Saturday.

The Gibbs Alumni Cookout, ironically for the past several years has been held on the same weekend as our weekend activities.  A few classmates met at the cookout and enjoyed the music of CJ the DJ (who for many years played for our dances).  It was a good time and Gibbs High School was represented big time.   We are proud of the fact that we are Gladiators!  There was a lot of people and a lot of food.  The cookout was held at Dell Holmes Park at the shelter by the Lake Maggiore.  The smell of hot fried fish and sizzling ribs on the grill filled the air as the music played, classmates danced while others caught up on old times.  Soon it was time for the Class of 68 to check out to prepare for the Diamond Birthday Bash.  We dashed off . . . . .

It's Saturday Night at the Downtown St. Petersburg Hilton and it's the evening of the Big Diamond Birthday Bash.  Balloons! Birthday Cake!  Music! People!  All the makings for a terrific party.  Did I fail to mention 60 year old people.  Who Knew!  We didn't look like it and we definitely didn't party like it.   After a brief welcome, and the blessing of thanksgiving and the blessing of the food, our guest were treated to a scrumptious meal of either Honey Glazed Salmon or Tender Baked Chicken which was served with a Colorful Garden Salad,  Buttery Garlic Mashed Potatoes and Fresh Roasted Green Beans.  Our dessert was Birthday Cake, of course, but not just any ordinary birthday cake, we had Fresh Lemon Creme, Sweet Pineapple Creme, Berry Cremes Raspberry and Strawberry and Savory Vanilla Creme Cakes.  That's the truth (check out the photos).  The food was the best.  Classmates traveled from out of town to the event, some of which had not attended any of the reunions but stated they wouldn't miss another one.  We took our class photo and danced the night away.   

Birthday Gift

What is a birthday party without a birthday gift for the honorees.  Not a party at all.  There was a total of 81 classmates in attendance and each one received a beautiful coffee travel mug with our BBD logo imprinted on it.  Thanks to HQ-Logo we were able to get these completed in 24 hours and shipped to the Hilton.

After a night of greeting, socializing, laughing, crying and dancing the night came to a dazzling end.  Soon it would be time to prepare our hearts and minds for our Worship and Praise Service.

Sunday morning found the class at The Holiday Inn SunSpree where we celebrated through praise and worship the goodness of the Lord.  Elder Wayne Hilliard was our Praise Leader and the surprised us with Bro Davis and his Angelettes Gospel group.  They performed gospel favorites.  Our speaker was classmate, Barbara Jackson-Stockton, who took her message from the Good Samaritan parable.  Underscoring 'go and do likewise'.  She also wrote a poem and a resolution for our celebration which will be posted at another time. 

Immediately after our photo shoot, we were served a country dinner fit for kings and queens.  The menu consisted of Honey Glazed Country Ham and Herbed Grilled Chicken, along with a Medley of Fresh Garden Vegetables and Spicy Fried Rice, Seasoned Garden Salad and Piping Hot Baked Sweet Potatoes with Cinnamon Butter.  Of course, there was more Birthday Cake to devour. 

As the weekend came to an end we were able to reflect on what the Apostle Paul told the Thessalonians, 'I thank my God for every remembrance of you.'

Another successful event, another blessing and another time to look forward to seeing each of you again!

Be Safe and Go Well!  

Friday Night - The Party Starts Here 

[photos compliments of Lancaster & Williams)

Saturday Alumni Cookout, Saturday July 17th

Saturday Evening July 17th - St. Pete Downtown Hilton

Sunday Praise and Worship Service  July 18th

Remembering Oveter "Theressa" Hayes

L ife often presents itself with challenges that are not the easiest to overcome and some which are completely out of our hands.  The recent loss of our beloved Theresa is one such challenge. 

If one was ever in need and she heard of it, she was a friend indeed.  Theresa was passionate about serving others unselfishlessly.  From this passionate she organized the 'Gibbs Class of 1968, Inc. Benevolence Committee', which she was sole leadership for many years.  She didn't think twice about reaching into her own funds and cabinet to provide for others in our class.  She ensured that each classmate received a token of love during their period of bereavement.  Additionally she would call class members to remind them of memorial services that we should attend.

Many of you probably didn't know her as well as some, however, we all will miss her.  She was open, honest, candid, dependable, and most of all a Proclaimer and Doer of the Word of God.  Her life speaks for her.  We can be at peace because the work she's done speaks for her and be confident that she is at home with the Lord. 

A part of her will live on with us because she truly made an impact on your life if you had opportunity to come in contact with her.  She was vivacious and enjoyed life  Her smile and spirit lives on!

Rest In Peace, "T~"    September 15, 1950 - August 19, 2011

"But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work an an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.  For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand.  I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:  Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing."   2 Timothy 4:5-8 KJV

Oveter Theressa Hayes  - Christmas Gala 12/21/2002

A Glimpse of Her Life, through the Eyes of Love and Laughter

Remembering Rosalyn James Cunningham

ife as we knew Rosalyn comes to an abrupt end when our dearly departed classmate, Rosalyn James Cunningham laid down and peacefully left this place to transition to the next.  We will miss Rosalyn because she was a geniune friend and Gladiator.  Her walk was more than a name on the roll, she participated in class events and was one of many that make our class a beacon in the community.

May God sustain us as we yet experience another lost. 

Services:   Tuesday, August 17, 2010

•  Wake

                 McRae Funeral Home 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
                 Family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

•  Wednesday, August 18, 2010 

                 Homegoing Celebration
                 Mt. Zion AME Church    -  11:00 a.m.

Classmates have been requested to serve as Flower Attendants.

Classmate and Friend