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Good news, bad news

We spent the weekend immersed in hope: first, at a grand party Saturday night in St. Clair Shores, then in thanksgiving and worship Sunday on the campus of Shield of Faith.

The 1970 H.N. grads who attended Saturday's party.

And when I say immersed, I mean it. I didn't see or hear a news report until the clock radio went off this morning at 5:30.

Now I don't feel as hopeful.

U.S. shreds auto plans; Wagoner forced out at GM; Cobo deal could blow up today.

Thank goodness for the MSU Spartans, who will play for state pride next weekend in the Final Four at Ford Field.

Anyway, the Holy Name keeping-in-touch party was a complete success. The final tally was right at 300, the food was great and everybody seemed to have a wonderful time.

[More:]

The Verbanac family was front and center Saturday night.

The tribute to Frank Verbanac, Mr. V., was moving and fitting for a man who touched so many lives. His family appeared to be overwhelmed by the kind words offered up by Dennis Suszynski, Dave Macker, Ken Resmer and Patti Kensicki, who all played softball under the guidance of the deceased Fletcher Field legend many years ago.

It was also nice to see Harriet Weatherly, who ran the park programs on Dubay back in the day and sometimes did craft projects with kids at Fletcher Field. She wore a smile all night, particularly when Patti handed her a bouquet of flowers in appreciation for her service at the Detroit Rec Department.

The night went so well and received such high marks, we decided to do it again next year and already set the date with Lakeland Banquet & Event Center: Saturday, March 20, 2010, 7 p.m.

Several members of Shield of Faith joined us at Saturday's party, including the church's pastor, Bishop James Alvin Jennings Jr., so it was fitting that we ended the weekend at SOF. Around two dozen former Holy Name parishioners came by to tour the old gym and school and then about 15 of those folks stuck around for the 4 p.m. service, which honored the bishop for his 19 years as a pastor.

The theme of the service was: "Victory will be ours."

Perfect.

It was certainly a winning weekend by all accounts -- as long as you didn't pay attention to the news.

Please come back throughout the week for more on the party and other upcoming events. Also, send your party pictures to mjhappyii@hotmail.com so that I can post them here.

Comments, Pingbacks:

Comment from: wick [Member]

Perfect it was. I found myself engulfed in the "Glory Days" surrounded by freinds who have inpacted my life.I did not hear a down graded thought or wor as everyone was electrified.The Verbanac family were certainly touched and rightfully so. I even caught a tear in Harriet's eyes. For that I say Kuddo's to all. It was truly a great event with great people.

Permalink 03/30/09 @ 09:09

Comment from: plkmi [Member]

Unfortunately, I did not play ball for Mr. V. My 2 brothers John & Kevin, my sister Barb and my Dad all played for Mr. V. I was the only one in my family who did not, but still had a very special relationship with Mr. V. He didn't treat me any different than he did his best players. The was the type of person he was. Yes, the event was wonderful. Once again it was great to see some old classmates and former neighbors. Looking forward to next year's event.

Permalink 03/30/09 @ 10:51