The idea of holding an annual Grand Reunion began with the Class of 1944.  Under the leadership of Arlen Davidson ('44) and Sam Taylor ('42), a committee** was formed, and on the third weekend in September, 1995, 137 former students from classes of 1927 to 1944 gathered over three days at the Oakwood Supper Club, the Hendrickson Center, and the VFW Clubhouse.

With Davidson providing support clerical work, and the committee working diligently behind the scenes, annual events have been held ever since.  When Arlen died in 2003 his younger brother, Sid ('52) took over as president.  He and his wife, Dorie, and Arlen's widow, Yvonne (Siebert) Davidson ('42), successfully sustained the Grand Reunion tradition.  Annual attendance has now grown to 240-265.

In 2009 organizational responsibilities were turned over to Arlene Caldwell ('50) and Dave Hathaway ('53) who both live locally.  Other Committee members in 2012 are Bob Danielson ('55); Sid and Dorie Davidson; Yvonne (Siebert) Wurzbach Davidson ('42); Mary Ann (Nelson, '51) and John Hagaman; Dick Hendrickson ('59); Arlene (Hawkins) Peterson ('42); Ralph "Bones" Larson ('52); Ken Porrey ('50); Shelley (Harris) Penney ('53); Charlotte (Rasmussen) Murray ('53); Phyllis Seibert; Violet (Thompson) Wanty ('50); Andy Wendt ('59); and Glee (Moses) Zale ('52).

It has been impressive that so many "hometown folks" have returned to share in the Grand Reunion over the last 18 years.  Although at one time we could hardly wait to leave high school and explore the world, it has become for many of us a very special occasion to return to renew friendships and recall who we were before we became who we are today.

**Other members: Virginia Bowersox; Bill & Leta Cook; Everett & Marge Hansen; Ben Jorgensen; Jean (Nelson) Krohn; Rosie Lund; Ruth B. Osen; Eleanor Peterson; Gary & Arlene Peterson; Gordon & Lanay Peterson; Geraldine Reinke; Stan & Bette Salter; Donna Schroeder; Renee Taylor; Yvonne M. Wurzbach.

(April, 2013)