Dear editor:

Every year since the graduating class of Powell High School in 1915 celebrated its first reunion, an annual reunion has been held, and this year is no different marking the 111th Annual All Class Reunion and celebration.  

PHS has the distinction of continuing this tradition where many schools no longer hold such events. As far as our research shows, PHS ranks No. 2, perhaps in the world, with consecutive all class reunions, and hopefully the tradition will continue! The reunion weekend brings to Powell alumni from distant places to relive memories of our hometown!  

Events are planned for two days, June 26 and 27, with time to renew old memories with classmates and to see how the community has changed over the years. As alumni return, they bring an increased boom to the community, from restaurants to motels to local small businesses. It is always hoped that the businesses would support the event, as some do through sponsorship signs at the annual PHS Open golf tournament. Other ways for the community to show support is to show up at the events and voice your support, or even become involved to help the tradition continue.  

Many alumni travel great distances, and many tell us that they are surprised that their local classmates don’t come to their planned events. This year is 111 years of a tradition the city of Powell can be proud of. It would be nice to see the city show support, perhaps elected officials who graduated from PHS could take in an event that showcases not just Powell High School but also the beloved city we all grew up in.  

All the Friday and Saturday events except the individual class events on Friday night are open for all alumni and the Powell community is invited to attend. The tradition has failed in many communities around the country, don’t let it fail in Powell. Each year members of the alumni committee search for new ideas to make the weekend better, and continually ask for new members to join our group. Some have served many years since their graduation, and we thank them for their service, but they would now like to see new members take over the tradition.  

Search out that old Panther pride instilled in you to step up and offer your time and talent to keep the tradition going. For those interested, you can send an email to grw@prodigy.net or takytrky1@gmail.com. Your alumni committee hopes to see a great turnout of alumni and Powell locals at our upcoming weekend event to make the 111th PHS All Class Reunion a success!

PHS Alumni Committee