Reunited, and It Feels So Good

A trip down Memory Lane can be a perilous journey, and class reunions are no exception. But they also offer a chance to reconnect with those who shared what are often billed as the best years of our lives. The Fairfax High School Class of 1984 recently held its 20-year reunion on the Queen Mary in Long Beach. Amid dinner, dancing and countless conversations peppered with the line, "Do you remember . . . ?" we quizzed some Fairfax graduates of two decades ago on the test of time.

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Brandon Andrews

Health Science Teacher at John Marshall High

Monrovia

Who was your crowd?

I took pains to not have a crowd. I had four or five good friends. We called ourselves "The Top Dogs," but nobody knew it but us.

Were you a good student?

I barely graduated. I applied to San Diego State, and they sent a letter saying, "Are you kidding? This is a college."

Was high school your best years?

Yes. I was voted "Most Popular."

Best high school memory?

Powder puff football. The guys wore cheerleader costumes and the girls play football. I pulled my pants down and mooned the crowd. I got suspended. The principal had a

big grin on his face.

Who was your nemesis?

Joel Turk. He's not here.

Maybe he'll see this and call.

Maybe, or I'll call him.

Were you cruel in high school?

I abhor such behavior. If someone would be cruel I'd say, "Take it easy."

You were an enforcer?

To some degree.

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Cheresse Thomas

Teacher at Hyde Park Elementary School

Los Angeles

Who was your crowd?

One guy was a Syrian, one was Hispanic, I'm African American, one was Caucasian.

Where did you imagine your future?

President of a corporation, [with] a two- or three-story house and maybe four or five kids.

How did it turn out?

I did work for corporate America in management. I have an apartment. I have traveled to five countries. I majored in international business. I hope to teach in Puerto Rico. Things turned out very well.

Best high school memory?

Graduation at the Greek Theater. I sang a solo, Flashdance . . . What a Feeling."

Rekindling any old flames?

I wasn't into that in high school. My dad was in the military.

Were you cruel in high school?

I won for "most sarcastic." I was quick with a comeback. I'd make friends with the out crowd.

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Robert Cronyn