[dropcap]Over[/dropcap] 50 years ago, the Class of 1965 bid farewell to Collinsville High School and began scattering throughout the world as we began our adult lives. But it has been easy to remember the life-long friendships that we formed at CHS, the dances at the Tepee, cheering for the victorious Kahoks in the gymnasium, the football bowl and other sporting events, and so many other activities. During those few short years at CHS we developed a special bond as a class – a bond that would bring us back together again and again as the years flowed by; to gather and remember our carefree days in class and around town.

On behalf of all of the Reunion Committee, we thank each and every one of you who joined us in Collinsville to celebrate those friendships and memories. It was your active participation that made our reunion a resounding success. The smiling faces and tearful hugs that adorned the Doubletree Saturday night will be remembered with more smiles and tears in years to come.

A special thanks is also extended to the spouses and significant others of our classmates – you have become an essential part of our extended class family. Your support and participation is very much appreciated, as I’m sure your spouses have already expressed to you.

The ladies who kicked everything off on Friday at their luncheon set the stage for each success that followed. The Golf outing brought our sports enthusiasts together for some fantastic fun. Our celebration at the Tepee was absolutely great, with dancing, refreshments, and blasts from the past. The visit to the Collinsville Museum and Miners Theater that followed opened eyes not only for those returning to town after many years, but also to life-long residents of Collinsville. Those activities established the mood for the tremendous gathering that came later in the evening at the Doubletree.

And to those who had planned to attend but were faced with life situations that prevented it – we thank you too, and wish circumstances would have allowed you to be here with us. In reality, you were with us in spirit. We had a heck of a time!

Thank you all for so many memories, smiles and tears. YOU have made it all worthwhile.

Your Reunion Committee