In October 2007, I submitted an “appeal letter” to the members of Selma High School Class of 1978 about our upcoming 30th class reunion. This is a follow-up to that letter.

On Aug. 8, 2008, members of the Class of 1978 kicked off our 30th reunion. After many discussions, planning, tracking classmates and sometimes appealing to members, the reunion finally arrived. I traveled from my home in Virginia with my (Southside High School alumni) husband, Albert, in tow. The kickoff on Friday night at Diego Family Mexican Restaurant was more than I expected.

The backdrop of the Alabama River and the Edmund Pettus Bridge with the sunset was perfect! The restaurant was packed with people from the class of 1978 — blacks and whites together! We learned that among our classmates we have a medical professor, a construction company owner, a cardiac nurse, a CPA and the list goes on. Classmates came from all over, some traveling from as far away as Atlanta, Cleveland, Texas, California, Boston, North Carolina and even Germany! It was awesome! We all embraced one another, laughed and talked, and engaged in true fellowship.

On Saturday night, the festivities continued at the St. James Hotel. Everyone observed a solemn moment of silence to remember our classmates who are no long with us. While we miss them dearly, these folks will live in our hearts forever. We were also fortunate to have some of our teachers from Selma High School join us. It was great seeing them and the coaches, and reminiscing about old times. The night continued with partying and dancing, and we even had a conga line! The band Blue Print was GREAT and kept everyone moving, tapping their feet and bobbing their heads!

The main point of this letter is to say that we gathered in celebration, and the unity shared by everyone was great. To Tane Roberts, Sue Rhiney and James Hasberry — thank you for all your efforts. Your commitment to seeing this event come to fruition was unwavering and greatly appreciated.

To Gina McClendon, thank you for all for the computer graphics, and computer skills. It was awesome having nametags with senior portrait photos! Awesome work!

To Julius and Ruth Talton, thank you for your warmth and true hospitality. To the Selma High School principal, thank you for allowing us to “stroll down memory lane.” To Diego Mexican Family Restaurant, thank you for the great eats! To the Blue Print Band, thank you for keeping us hopping! To my fellow classmates … Thank you.!We all came together and celebrated in true Saint Spirit! “One Class, One School, United!”

Benita Clay-Davis

Selma High School Class of 1978

Chesapeake, Va.