Illustration by Willie Ito

by RICHARD SHINTAKU

“Bring back the old songs.”

“Bring back the old feelings.”

“Bring back the old times.”

So, we’re BACK!

Back because of popular demand.

Back because of those who missed it last year and want a second chance.

And back because everyone, committee members included, just can’t get enough of talking stories of the old days.

Don’t take our word for it; read on:

From Gary Oda: “We want another “Oldies.” Last year’s was a blast. There were so many of our friends from high school. We bunched together and reminisced… (Granada’s on 4th Street, West Berkeley, the doo wop music … Awesome!”

From Tom Fujimura: “What a scene — old friends, oldies music, food, drink. What a scene.”

From Derrell Gee: “I missed it last year and so did Art Yoshihara. We really missed out, so I’m planning ahead. After all, what’s an oldies party without me?”

From Don Takakura: “I didn’t know there was going to be so much food and drink. I won’t make the mistake of eating ahead of time. I’m coming hungry.”

From Gail Nanbu: “To quote Michael Corleone in GF III, ‘After I was out, they drew me back in.’ Actually, I wanted to be back after I heard what we did for the kids at the Buchanan YMCA — camping at Yosemite and four YMCA youths sent to Prague for an international YMCA conference.”

From Tom Hoshiyama: “As much fun as I have working on the event, and the fun of seeing old friends, I get just as much enjoyment watching the attendees reuniting, reminiscing, laughing, dancing and just having a good time. It makes the effort the committee members put into the event worth it.”

For now, circle the date, Saturday Oct. 25, from 5 p.m. ’til the last dance at Buchanan YMCA, 1530 Buchanan St. (at Geary), San Francisco. Spread the word: “The Oldies Dance Party is back!”

For more information on the fifth annual “Sentimental Journey,” a reunion of those affiliated with the Buchanan YMCA in the ’50s, ’60s and ’70s, contact Reeshemah Davis, executive director, at (415) 931-9622 or visit www.ymcasf.org/buchanan.