Scott Eriksson and his fellow Class of 1979 Clarkston High School graduates turn 50 this year ? a perfect time for a party.
“A lot of people bemoan the fact that they’ve reached the half century mark. It’s a big milestone,” Eriksson said. “I was talking to friends when, as a lark, we decided we should do this.”
Tongue firmly in cheek, they named the party the WTF Bash, for “We’re Turning Fifty,” 7 p.m., July 23 at Fountains Golf and Country Club, 6060 Maybee Road.
“So far, about 100 people have preregistered,” he said. “Everything’s going really well. It’s exceeding my expectations so far.”
They have made several contacts across the country through Facebook and emails, but are still looking for those recently turning 50, or will turn 50 sometime in the next several years, along with families, friends, and anyone else who would like to attend.
“In short, we have all shared a half century, more or less, on this rock, we still have our sense of humor, and some of sanity,” said Erikkson, who lives in Plano, Texas. “I think that, in itself, is cause for a celebration.”
The event, with live music by the band Random Family, also raises money for Gilda’s Club Metro Detroit. The non-profit group is named after the late Gilda Radner, Detroit native and TV comedian, and supports cancer victims and their families.
“Almost all of us have been touched by cancer, either directly or through a loved one,” he said. “In a couple of instances, we have taken a registration in the name of a dear friend or loved one that was taken by cancer so that their registration can be turned in at the event and a donation be made in their name.”
Admission is free. Sponsors make a donation to Gilda’s Club for every pre-registerd participant who attends. Also, Fountains offers a discount coupon on food and will make a donation for every coupon redeemed.
“A number of local businesses are helping out, including Fountains, Olde Mill Inn, Rudy’s Market, Lakeview Food Basket, Subway, Jeepers, Frames n Art, and The Print Shop,” Eriksson said.
For more information or to preregister, go to www.wtfbash.com.
? Phil Custodio