 |
| Behind the Scenes with Ivy Visitacion |
We were there to witness the Gala Night of the Negros Occidental High School Class ’64 Golden Jubilee, held recently at the grand ballroom of L’Fisher Hotel in Bacolod City.
This was sponsored by the International Chapter of the Alumni, whose members were there in full force. Everyone was dressed to kill with their elegant gowns for the ladies and suits or barongs for the gentlemen. The venue was fully decorated with giant MassKara masks, courtesy of ABS-CBN, whose personnel produced the show for their former manager, Bing Ascalon, president of the NOHS Class ’64 for the Golden Jubilee.
The colors and the lights set the mood. The Gala Night was the culmination of the eight days celebration of the Jubilee, filled with sports games, parties, picnics, dancing, etc., that the alumni enjoyed to the max.
And now, the alumni gathered for the last time to see their old classmates who were older and grayer but still, young at heart. There were endless photo ops to remember this moment by as they enjoyed the spirit of camaraderie and fellowship that permeated the gathering.
Stories of their escapades during their high schooldays were told and retold. It was a poignant, transcendent journey to the past. Were they really that young and foolish? Laughter filled each table as the ‘young once’ recalled the golden days of their youth. The music of the 60s filled the room, enhancing their recollection of their memories.
Dinner was a gustatory experience with scrumptious dishes enjoyed by all. The guest speaker was supposed to be Ambassador Carmelita Salas, whose speech was read for her by her son, Rafael Miguel Salas. He charmed everyone with his engaging personality and movie star looks. Entertainment was provided by the MassKara Electric dancers, with special dance numbers by the local and international alumni chapters. After the program, everyone let their hair down and danced, danced, danced!
Wotta night! Kudos to the organizers for a most successful Golden Jubilee!*
