PHS class of 1980 gathers for reunion

The Polson High School class of 1980 celebrated its “40+1 Reunion Extravaganza” July 20-25 in Polson. It was six days of fun and excitement for nearly 70 people.

The class of 1980 graduated 125. Classmates enjoyed bowling, jogging, hiking, boating, rafting, karaoke, dancing, The Port Polson Players, a sunrise service, a visit to the Bison Range, local church services and other Flathead activities. Some classmates even helped the Polson Senior Citizen’s Center organize food distribution for families.

All unused Reunion food and decorating supplies were donated to the Boys and Girls Club in Polson. The classmates definitely made the most of their trip.

Classmates came from as far away as Florida, New Hampshire, Tennessee, California and Alaska. COVID-19 played a part for many classmates not being able to attend, and they were missed. The unavailability of rental cars also led to many people unable to attend. One classmate flew into Salt Lake City and rented a car to drive to Polson. That’s dedication.

The three-day main events were held at Glacier Brewery, the Polson Senior Citizen’s Center and Boettcher Park. The theme at Glacier Brewery was “Carnival,” a yearly event that is no longer offered in Polson High School.

The PHS Class of 1980 wishes to thank the citizens of Polson for welcoming them into the community.

“We felt the love that we grew up with, and that’s because Polson is a special community,” said Marcia (Smith) Rosser, an organizer who lives in Tennessee. “We come here from across the country to reunite, and we feel like we’re home. That’s a tribute to the citizens of Polson.”

The class is considering changing its 10-year reunion schedule to every five years and reorganizing to a simpler schedule, consisting of one main event. That will allow classmates to enjoy their own interests, while they are in the Flathead Valley.

Thank you Polson, for everything. We’ll see you soon.