On a June evening 60 years past, 479 of us in cap and gown filed proudly onto MacQuarrie Field. Along with many athletic victories and championships, our class had produced 8 vals, 5 sals, and 66 members of the National Honor Society.

We sang Cheer for the Orange and Blue, accompanied by a great orchestra which itself had earned an "A" rating in state competition.

During our years at Washburn, we also had participated in a large array of activities sponsored by social, academic, and service clubs. And, as in Lake Wobegon, "we were all above average."

In my commencement remarks as class president, I thanked our parents (who had "shared in our triumphs and been sources of inspiration in our moments of disappointment") and our exceptional teachers. coaches and advisors.

I don't think any of us realized we were living in Minneapolis' golden age, where we could be with our neighborhood friends in our local schools, where our teachers and facilities were top of the line, where neighbors two houses down knew our dogs name. and where as children we were the sole focus of loving parents.

The future before us at that time, for which we had so diligently prepared, is now past. In many respects, we are history. At the same time, however, much remains to be done. I hope you shared your stories and plans with your pals at the joyful 55th Reunion weekend. We prepared a smorgasbord of great treats for Cake Eaters that we hope you enjoyed. We hope to see you all at our 60th Reunion.

Rolf Svendsen