The Bemus Point Class of 1964 recently celebrated its 50th class reunion with three days of events. Of the 70 members who were classmates in June 1964, only eight have passed away during the ensuing 50 years. And of the 62 who remain, there were 40 classmates who attended part or all of the reunion events.

On Friday, July 25 everyone met at Shaggy’s, a party room at the SeeZurh House in Bemus Point, owned and operated by fellow classmate Thom Shagla. As part of that evening, the class walked to the old high school building to pose for a class picture on the front steps, just as class pictures were taken during the classmates’ school years. After Maple Grove High School was built in Ellery to replace the building at Sunnyside Avenue, Michael Lucariello, another classmate, bought the old school and converted it to senior citizen apartments. Following picture-taking, Lucariello led everyone on an interesting tour of the building which brought back memories.

On Saturday, July 26, the class assembled for a buffet dinner and program at the Bemus Point VFW in Ellery Center, managed by Bemus Class of 1963 graduate Ron Thompson. During a memorial for classmates who had passed away over the last 50 years, everyone had a chance to share stories and memories. In addition, entertainment was provided by Chautauqua Shores Chorus, of which classmate Elaine Crossley is an active member. Other program participants included two of the three classmates who became church pastors, the Rev. Jerry Ward and the Rev. John Corcoran. Stand-up comics Dan Pihlblad and Tom Druelinger shared emcee duties.

On Sunday, July 27, the celebration concluded with a picnic at Midway State Park in Maple Springs where former teacher and coach Ray Tudor and members of other classes joined in the fun.

Future plans are to get together at the annual Bemus Point Alumni Association Reunion and to have a 55th class reunion in 2019.