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| Behind the Scenes with Ivy Visitacion |
The Ruby Jubilee of the Riverside Nursing Graduating Class ’73 Jan. 29 to Feb. 1 was a most unforgettable reunion with the arrival of class members from USA, Europe and other places in the Philippines.
The organizers abroad, Necoy Lim, Beng Pido, and Lea Agudelo, and their local counterparts, led by Lourdes Lobaton, left no stone unturned to ensure the success of their much-awaited reunion.
January 29 was the day the members arrived. The scene was complete bedlam as they welcomed their friends with tears of joy, shrieks of recognition and amazement, and spent the day bonding again and touring the old familiar places. A fellowship dinner was enjoyed by all at Ading’s Pala-pala.
The next day, a thanksgiving mass was held at the chapel of their alma mater, Riverside College. It was another day of touring the new landmarks of the city. A sumptuous dinner was held at Aboy’s where they sated themselves with their favorite local delicacies.
The third day highlight was a festive lunch at Manokan Country. In the evening, a riotous Mardi Gras was held at Palmas del Mar, where everyone came in spectacular costumes. What a riot it was! Queen of the Mardi Gras was Yolanda Panes, who looked absolutely fabulous that evening. There was dancing until the wee hours and some members almost passed out from exhaustion.
The Gala Night was the finale of the celebration. This time, everyone came dressed to the nines in their best evening attire complete with bling-bling! After the delicious feast especially prepared for the occasion, Cristina Agudelo Dee, looking drop-dead gorgeous in her stunning gown, gave a touching speech that left the audience misty-eyed. She then entertained the crowd with a beautiful operatic song, followed by a show-stopping Broadway number “So in Love”.
The members paid tribute to their Manay Pamplona, who was their strict but loving “terror matron” during their student years. In response, “Manay” sang to her former students. A video presentation of their old school-day photos elicited screams of horror and delight among the alumni. Then it was time to dance, dance, dance “until you drop”!
Wotta night!
Thank you to you dear friend, Paula Gustilo, for arranging our invitation to this unforgettable reunion. I know the class will treasure the laughter, triumphs and struggles of their student days. Everyone declared that this reunion will stay in their memories forever.*
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