For many of my classmates, the last time we saw one another was graduation, 1961 on that hot field behind our old school.  Since then, so much has occurred in my life, as it has in all of yours.  That summer, and the summer after that summer, I was accepted in the Berkshire Music School, known as Tanglewood, and studied with principal oboist Ralph Gomberg and English hornist Louis Speyer.  It was a turning point in my life, and I joined the Twin Cities Musicians’ Union and became a professional oboist, and graduated from the University of Minnesota.  I had the honor of working with my high school band director, Warren Alm for many years in the St. Paul Opera Orchestra, and he used to go around and tell everyone that we played in the same “traveling band” together.   In my free lance career, I have played with the Minnesota Orchestra, the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra, Opera, Ballet,  radio and tv commercials, and recordings, and even the Columbia Artists logo recording, as well as a Prince recording.  Currently, I am featured on two terrific Christmas albums, called The Winds of Christmastide .  Between practicing and making oboe reeds, teaching at 3 universities and performing , I got married and had two sons who are both married.  I am looking forward to seeing the class of ‘61 and thank all our classmates who are working so hard to make this a special week-end for all.