The Marple Newtown High School (MNHS) Class of 1975, one of the largest MNHS classes in history, celebrated its 50th reunion weekend from October 17-19 with a lively series of events that brought classmates together to reminisce, reconnect and make new memories.
The festivities kicked off Friday, October 17th, with a Class of ‘75 Tiger Open golf tournament at The Course at Glen Mills, arranged by reunion committee member and golf pro Don Spieller. Keeping an eye on everyone as Don’s guest was his golf coach at MNHS (and former athletic director) Allan Jones. Later that evening, many alumni gathered for a happy hour at Barnaby’s (formerly known as the Saw Mill Inn, a hot spot for the class of ‘75 back in the day). “There was a lot of laughter and sharing of stories,” said Dianne Lappe Cooney, alumna and reunion committee member. “Several classmates traveled across the country to be here, and for some, it was the first reunion they attended since graduation. Many of us had a lot to catch up on after five decades.”
Saturday’s schedule included a nostalgic tour of the high school, giving alumni a chance to see how much had changed— and how much had stayed the same—since their student days. “Alumni were especially impressed with the performing arts center, and music students enjoyed seeing the individual practice rooms,” said Robert Speca, the alumnus and former MNHS teacher who led the tour.
A special highlight of the day was a domino toppler display that Robert created, designed in honor of the Class of 1975’s milestone reunion. A professional domino toppler, Robert has been toppling all over the world and appeared on such shows as The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson and The Late Show with David Letterman. He got hooked on domino toppling back when he himself was a student at MNHS in the 1970s, thanks to his 10th-grade math teacher, Mr. Dobransky. “The Domino display was a highlight,” said Madelyn Rubenstein, the class of ’75’s treasurer. “Bob loves to give back. He’s a great example of how teachers at MN are instrumental in the growth of their students.”
After more than 80 alumni completed the tour, they gathered to share Thunderbird hoagies and Tastykakes in the school cafeteria. “We could have stayed all day, chatting and reminiscing,” Dianne said. “It was so fun to be back at school,” added Madelyn. “It’s impressive to see that it’s still a thriving institution.”
The fun continued on Saturday with a spirited pickleball tournament, organized by Amy Ervin Hawe, adding a touch of friendly competition to the weekend’s camaraderie. The celebration culminated Saturday night with a festive dinner at Paxon Hollow Country Club, where nearly 250 attendees enjoyed dinner, dancing and heartfelt tributes to teachers and classmates. The evening ended with commemorative canvas bags and soft pretzels to go! “A great meal, camaraderie, and seeing so many friendly old faces was amazing,” said Don. “It was worth flying in from Jupiter, Florida!”
Robert Speca’s 1975 Class Reunion domino display Newtown High School Class of 1975. “We all worked together nicely over the past year,” explained Madelyn. “So many people wanted to be involved, which contributed to the success of the reunion.” It was also thanks to the generosity of many members of the class who donated funds to keep the cost low. “We have a lot of successful classmates,” added Madelyn. “They really wanted to pay it forward as a tribute to the many people from high school who shaped who they are today.”
Thanks to the efforts of the reunion committee, who worked tirelessly behind the scenes, the reunion was a joyful reminder of the enduring Tiger Pride and the lasting bonds of the Marple Committee members remarked that no matter what groups alumni may have been in in high school, everyone came together at the reunion. “After all these years, we’re all the same and we each have our own fond memories,” said Madelyn. For anyone hesitant to go to a high school reunion, Madelyn had good advice: “It’s so important to revisit where you came from! It’s a feel-good event!”
Class of 1975 Reunion Committee
Don Spieller
Dianne Lappe Cooney
Robert Speca
Pete Anderson
Kristina Borgh Shore
Cheryl Dabrow
Debbie Guttshall
Amy Ervin Hawe
Barb Huster Sivek
Nancy Kent Sowa
Bruce Kirk
Marilyn Klein Garlen
Rich Langan
Beverly Lipton Anderton
Dana Paxson
Audrey Sauder Pino
Madelyn Taufer Rubenstein (Class Treasurer)
Helen Town Wiedersum