Florence reunion draws from 6 states

Alumni, guests, and teachers from six states and 24 towns in Kansas were among the 130 reservations for the 125th Florence Alumni Banquet.

The banquet, May 28 at the Florence gym, included representatives from graduating classes from 1943 to 2022.

Special recognition was give to the classes of 1952 (70 years), 1957 (65 years), 1962 (65 years), and 1967 (55 years).

Reservations came from North Dakota, Texas, Oklahoma, South Carolina, and Missouri as well as Kansas.

Mike Robinson from the class of 1967 was master of ceremonies.

Elected as officers for 2023 were president Karen Robinson Walczak, vice president Pat Robinson, secretary Nelly Nunn Franklin, and treasurer Jerry Malmgren.

A $1,000 alumni association scholarship was awarded to graduating Marion High School senior Gracie Mackey.

Reilly Reid, class of 1965 and commander of the Florence VFW post, served the meal.

Florence alumni first met in 1896. The group believes it is the oldest continuous high school alumni association in the state. A 126th reunion and banquet is being planned for May 2023.