Opinion

Reflections on the Las Vegas Reunion: A Brotherhood Rekindled

Published June 16, 2024

As the sun dipped below the horizon of Las Vegas, casting hues of orange and purple across the skyline, the Orleans Hotel buzzed with the energy of old friends reuniting. From May 29th to June 3rd, 2024, the corridors echoed with laughter, tales of yesteryears, and the camaraderie that only brothers can share. Among them stood Raffy Policarpio, proud member of Batch '76, and his elder brother, Vince Policarpio, hailing from Batch '75, both bound by blood and the bonds of fraternity.

The agenda was set, and the stage was Las Vegas—a city synonymous with revelry and memories waiting to be made. The centerpiece of the reunion was the Upsilon Sigma Phi North America (USPNA) 25th-year milestone, celebrated in grandeur at the Orleans Hotel. Amidst the glittering lights and the clinking of glasses, old friendships were rekindled, and new ones formed.

The festivities kicked off with two rounds of golf, a beloved tradition amongst the brothers. Though victory eluded Raffy, the thrill of the game was surpassed by the joy of catching up with his brethren. Each swing of the club echoed with stories of brotherhood and shared experiences.

One of the highlights of the reunion was the "Kambingan" event, a tradition that had become synonymous with Upsilon Sigma Phi reunions. Here, the talents of fraternity and sorority members were showcased, weaving a tapestry of music, dance, and laughter that reverberated through the halls of the “Kambingan” venue.

But the celebration didn't stop there. A billiards get-together added a competitive edge to the festivities, as brothers tested their skills on the green felt. And then came the pièce de résistance—the fraternity ball. A night of dancing under the shimmering lights, accompanied by melodies that stirred memories of youth and camaraderie. Glasses clinked in toasts to brotherhood, as laughter filled the air and bonds were strengthened anew.

For Raffy and Vince Policarpio, the reunion was more than just a gathering of old friends—it was a testament to the enduring spirit of brotherhood. As they bid farewell to Las Vegas and the Orleans Hotel, their hearts were filled with memories of a reunion that transcended time—a celebration of friendship, shared experiences, and the timeless bonds of brotherhood.

by Antonio Vazquez, Upsilon Sun guest writer

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