The RHS Annual Alumni Picnic was an enjoyable event. Held on August 12, 2017, approximately 117 people, many from distant areas, attended the gathering at Painesville Township Community Center. Besides local alumni, others were from Massachusetts, Virginia, South Carolina, Georgia and Florida.
A note from Carl Taylor, Class of 1968, states, “As you know, I have attended the last two years, and yes, I do enjoy it. I have been able to connect with someone I had not seen in years and was able to have a great conversation. The food is always great, and everyone seems to have a good time.”
Howard Stewart, Class of 1959, lives in South Carolina, and in his note says, “This reunion is a great place to renew old friendships and start new ones. Since I live out of state, this is the only time I have a chance to see my former classmates. Many are friends I had in elementary school at Hale Road, which we attended about 68 years ago! It is nice to renew old stories about our years at Riverside and get an update as to what everyone is doing in later years. Also, I find it interesting to hear how many are still in the area and how many have left the state. Interesting how they moved and found new careers elsewhere.”
Another note from James Hido, Class of 2003, indicates he had a great time during his first visit to the picnic. He felt it was a way to meet many of the alumni from the past. However, he stated that he wishes more of the young alumni would take advantage of the event and come and enjoy the day also. He said, “We need to find a way to inform the young alumni of the Riverside Alumni Association and the events that we have during each school year.”
Hopefully, because the association is giving a one-year FREE membership to each graduating class member, more of them will realize the group exists and become involved.
This year several raffles were offered and enthusiastically supported. A packet of lottery tickets was won by Nathan Ferron, a cooler of booze by Kathy Riley, and a bag of booze and bar items by Arnold McCauley.
Chairperson of the picnic was Loretta Vandervort, trustee. She and all of the trustees hope to see everyone again next year.
