The official web site of the Lowell Alumni Association

In less than nine months, Lowell will begin a year-long celebration of the 150th anniversary of the school's 1856 founding as Union Grammar School, originally located in the Wesleyan Methodist Church on Powell Street between Clay and Sacramento. As befits the first public high school in the western United States, ideas abound for ways of marking this auspicious occasion.

Last month, more than a thousand alumni were invited to attend one of a series of brainstorming sessions to develop and discuss plans for the sesquicentennial celebration. Although no final plans have yet been made, many in attendance voiced support for a small number of large celebratory events along with some smaller events, scheduled throughout 2006.

Among the ideas for large events are a campus-wide "open house" at Lowell on a Saturday, featuring a schedule of performances, presentations, panel discussions, food, plenty of time for socializing among alumni and students and the re-dedication of the Lowell campus; a formal banquet event at a downtown hotel or at Moscone Center; a "virtual banquet" whereby alumni purchase tickets to a non-existent event so that all of their ticket price is directed to supporting designated Lowell programs; and a public exhibition of Lowell memorabilia and historical artifacts, perhaps at City Hall or the main library, with a special opening night cocktail party.

Smaller events that have been discussed include a footrace from the Hayes and Masonic campus to the current campus; performances of a new choral and orchestral work celebrating Lowell's history; a special sesquicentennial tailgate party in conjunction with a football game at Kezar Stadium; a special Lowell Alumni Day at a San Francisco Giants game; a Lowell float or contingent in the 2006 Chinese New Years parade; and participation by reunion class representatives in Lowell's 2006 commencement exercises.

There have also been discussions about publication of a commemorative history of Lowell or an alumni director, sales of Lowell merchandise (apparel, jewelry, license plate holders, etc.) and creation of a commemorative CD of Lowell music.

While there may be no limit to the possible ways to celebrate the 2006 sesquicentennial, there is indeed a limit to the number of successful events that even the most dedicated and talented band of volunteers can organize, so the hard work is just ahead as the steering committee further refines these ideas and plans a final calendar of events for 2006. If you are interested in assisting in any way, either in connection with one particular event or more generally, please contact the Lowell Alumni Association. And if you have ideas to share or just want to express your interest in any of the ideas discussed above, let us know. In any event, be prepared for some unique opportunities to rekindle your Lowell spirit next year!