50-year Reunion Weekend was EPIC EPIC EPIC

What a GREAT gathering of the GREATEST CLASS EVER!  Well, I say that in all humility...

SWHS Class of 1971 braved a pandemic and our aging frames and rocked the weekend away!

In addition, we had a few activities that were completely Pacific Northwest themed and celebrated our great heritage in that hyphenated town we love so well. 

Due to the COVID pandemic the town's Loggerodeo festivities were curtailed.  The log carving, home decorating, beard contest, rodeo, fireworks, and museum activities were in full swing.  But we were not able to have a 50-year reunion entry in the parade because there was no parade.  Also no carnival.  So we plan to have an entry in the 2022 parade and show the Class of 1972 how it's done!!

Our weekend included a Friday trip to Friday Harbor by walking on the ferry at Anacortes.  We lunched in BEAUTIFUL Friday Harbor, explored the downtown area a little, and then rode back to Anacortes with the stunning island scenery.  No whales this time.  

Saturday we had our main event, hosted by Sue Ann Butt Bryson at our traditional spot on Minkler Road. 

Entertainment was provided by Mark Stendal and Marko Self and a few band members imported for the evening.  Lots of music from 1971 (we all know the words) and a sentimental trip through photos and narration to point out the extraordinary class that we are. 

Chefs Gary Rothenbuhler and Frank Handy prepared some beautiful salmon and the rest of the salads, desserts, etc., were provided by class members.  

So much work and love went into the planning and execution of the evening that it was difficult to leave at the end.  So treasure those moments and your photos.  This amazing group of people can only get better as we age gracefully into our 70s and return for another epic weekend at the 55-year mark!  

Thank you a thousand times for all the planning, work, execution, foresight, and thoughtfulness that made the weekend so great.  How did we know in 1971 that we would all still be friends, 50 years later?  Amazing. 

Monthly Coffee Hour May 28th at the Woolley Market!

Another monthly gathering and I think there might be a mystery guest this time!  Not sure...that's what makes it a mystery..

We love these LONG days because it's still light when we break up at 7 p.m.

This is the prettiest time of the year in the Pacific Northwest with all our rhodies in bloom.  The state flower.  Lots of other plants in bloom, too!



Sadly, I report that our friend, teacher, mentor, and role model, Jerry Sommerseth passed away on April 23.  The day after Earth Day, which he taught us to observe.  His memorial service will be on Saturday, June 22nd, which would have been his birthday, at Central United Methodist Church on the Polte Road in Sedro-Woolley.  I hope we have a big Class of 71 turnout for this event, as we have had for so many others.  His leadership lives on.  A very big legacy.

So meander on down to the Woolley Market on Tuesday the 28th and enjoy the company of your compatriots!  We'll be watching for you!

Early Warning:  The June coffee hour will be on June 25th.

Another Early Warning:  We will be having our annual pot luck in July at Shirley's.  Watch for the date.

Still Another Early Warning:  Yes, we are starting to talk about our 50-year class reunion in 2021!  July 4th parade entry, reunion gathering, etc.  Anything you'd like to recommend?