🦅 Soddy-Daisy High School Class of 1971 Marks 55 Years with Reunion and Reflections

The Soddy-Daisy High School class of 1971 gathered last Saturday for their 55th reunion, bringing together classmates who hadn’t seen each other in decades. The milestone celebration offered a poignant reminder of shared history and the passage of time in a close-knit community.

📍 A Gathering of 156 Graduates

The class of 1971 began with 156 graduates, though the reunion carried a sobering note: 76 classmates have passed away over the past five and a half decades. Despite the losses, attendees found joy in reconnecting with friends forged during their school years. One classmate, Freida Eustice, reflected on the experience: “We had a great time at our reunion. It was good to see old friends.” ✨

🎤 Alma Mater and Unexpected Hobbies

During the gathering, classmates shared their hobbies and talents. One attendee revealed a passion for hawk watching-a revelation that led to a humorous misunderstanding when a friend thought he’d said “hog washing” instead. The same classmate, who has sung hundreds of solos over the years, was chosen to lead the singing of the Soddy-Daisy Alma Mater. Though the words had faded from memory after more than five decades, printed copies ensured the tradition continued. 😄

🦅 Fall Raptor Migration Reaches Milestone

Beyond the reunion, one classmate marked a significant milestone in a different pursuit: one month of monitoring fall raptor migration at Soddy Mountain Hawk Watch. After more than 120 hours of observation as of October 12, the count totaled 1,176 raptors, including 1,052 broad-winged hawks, 20 bald eagles, 59 sharp-shinned hawks, and 16 Cooper’s hawks, among other species. 📊

This year marks the observer’s 34th season at Soddy Mountain Hawk Watch. Over that span, more than 100,000 migrant raptors have been documented at the site. Daily reports are available through the Soddy Mountain Hawk Watch blog for those interested in following the migration season. 🌄

💭 Connections Across Time

The reunion underscored the enduring bonds formed during high school years-connections that persist even as classmates pursue diverse interests and passions across five decades. For the class of 1971, the gathering served as both a celebration of survival and a tribute to those no longer here to share in the moment.