SHSS Class of 1984 Celebrates 40-Year Reunion in Castlegar
By Contributor
The Stanley Humphries Secondary School (SHSS) Graduating Class of 1984, along with guest graduates spanning grad classes from 1982 to 1987, recently gathered in Castlegar for a memorable 40-year reunion weekend from July 4-7, 2024. Initiated by Grad ‘84 alumni Josef Berger and organized and led by Dr. Linda (King) Harwood, the event was a resounding success, drawing attendees from across British Columbia and beyond.
The reunion was a well-organized “Choose Your Own Adventure” type of four-day event, designed to foster reconnections while also creating new friendships and memories. Over 60 attendees enjoyed a full weekend of festivities that showcased the beauty of their hometown of Castlegar.
The ‘love-in’ kicked off with small morning meet-ups at the Common Grounds. Highlights included scenic hikes along the Waldie Island Trail and the restored Brilliant bridge, and a Thursday evening Pub Night at the Tailout Pub (which stayed open extra late for this happy group — everyone left with much gratitude for their excellent service and wonderful brews!)
Friday’s schedule was marked by an informal Beach Day at the boat launch, complete with group hikes up to Tulip Falls. Current SHSS principal, Mr. Ian Cooper, gave an afternoon tour of the high school, prompting many memories and stories to be enjoyed by all. The evening continued with more socializing at the Lion’s Head Smoke and Brew Pub in Robson, whose service was nothing short of outstanding for this party of 60!
Saturday, dubbed Park Day, unfolded at Millennium and Zuckerberg’s Island, offering a range of activities from pickleball and tennis to leisurely riverside walks. The day’s highlights culminated in live music performed by the talented Grad ‘84 alumna Eva (Varabioff) Cortens and in a group art mural activity led by renowned BC artist Luciana Alvarez, which resulted in a vibrant piece of art symbolizing the camaraderie of the SHSS Class of 1984. The Castlegar Sculpturewalk and the Castlegar Farmers’ Market were also thoroughly enjoyed.
Saturday evening’s main event, a tasty and nostalgic dinner held at the legendary Colander Restaurant in nearby Trail, allowed for more reminiscing and catching up. The evening concluded with a leisurely, scenic stroll over the Columbia River Skywalk Bridge.
Sunday brought a relaxing conclusion to the reunion with one more hike along the Columbia River (the scenic and cool Waldie Island Trail) for some and return drives and flights for others.
“We are thrilled with the turnout and the enthusiasm shown by our fellow classmates,” remarked Dr. Linda Harwood. “It was heartwarming to see friendships rekindled and new connections made. This reunion has been a testament to the enduring spirit and community of our graduating classes, and many remarked how stunning the West Kootenays truly are. We are fortunate to live in, and be from, such a beautiful place.”
The SHSS Grad ’84 40-Year Reunion was made possible through the dedicated efforts of not only the organizing committee of Luciana Alvarez, Josef Berger, Eva Cortens, and Dr. Linda Harwood, but also the outstanding level of friendly and professional service provided by our local businesses.
For more information and photos from the reunion (or if you are an SHSS grad from the 1980s,) you can request to join our Facebook group found here:
https://www.facebook.com/
Comments