Conotton Valley class of 1983 celebrates 40th reunion

By Jacquie Humphrey Harrison News-Herald Staff Writer LEESVILLE – Conotton

Valley’s Class of 1983 recently held its 40th reunion on Saturday, July 8.

The group began the day with a tour of Conotton’s elementary classroom addition and Rocket Center, graciously hosted by Superintendent

John Zucal.

The group met at 9 a.m., in front of the new main entrance to the school, which includes the elementary classroom addition. In 1983, this area was a gravel parking lot. Co-organizers Mike Bigler and Brian Standiford assisted in coordinating the tour at the request of out-of-state fellow graduate Kevin Limron.

Limron and his wife, Donna, traveled 949 miles, from Salina, Kan., to attend the reunion. Those traveling the furthest were classmate John Magnus and wife, Julie, who made an 1,110-mile journey from Elgin, Okla. Limron said he has watched the changes and progress of Conotton on social media and was curious to see his alma

Submitted mater in person. Bigler agreed that it was a great way to kickoff the day’s events. By 11 a.m. those touring the school, and those who could not, were assembling at Atwood Park’s pavilion #1, arranged by Standiford. Approximately 30 alumni

Submitted and their spouses gathered to enjoy a barbeque lunch served by Ross Mountain Barbecue, owned by Conotton’s 1988 graduate Eric Enold.

This is in front of the 1983 Class Picture in the original section of the high school, Rod Hunt, Kevin Limron, Amy Hooker-Kaser, Tammy Hartline Conkey and John Magnus in rear. Amber Williams Heid in front.

Bart Busby requested a moment of silence for the group to remember their three classmates who have died since graduation. Jesse Conk-