John Apitz

I have spent the past 50 years in politics - campaigns, staffing officeholders, promoting causes and, now, as a lobbyist - who would have guessed.

It is a fascinating world, but one that has become overgrown with self-service, petty infighting and short-term objectives. Still, the process works, year after year - a tribute to the genius that conceived and first defined it. We are truly fortunate, that way.

I have been privileged to work with some of Minnesota's best - Senator Hubert Humphrey, Cong. Tim Penny, Gov. Tim Pawlenty, Senator Norm Coleman - all good people. And, above all, I was privileged to work for Pres. Jimmy Carter - a great world citizen.

I was blessed to be joined on this journey by a beautiful and brilliant woman, Mary Magnuson. Her goal was more lofty than political life - thus, our twins - Nick & Zach, (I am all ears for advise from classmates who have already travelled this path.)

The reunion will be fun! Allot of our stalwart friends have been endeavoring for months to pull together a great party. I hope you can come. I look forward to seeing many old and dear friends.

I remember hearing the Gestures play at the Mankato Amory when I was in junior high. "Run, Run, Run" made it to the top of the charts across the US and UK. I thought that was cool enough for any kid and, so I played in a rock 'n roll band through high school, across Minnesota and Iowa.

("Putter" Durenberger, "Shag" Smith, "Billy" Steiner were local rock heroes... they still are!)

And, thanks to Judy Lucas for staying up late, to laugh into the night/morning, after we got home. She was a wonderful friend to grow up with through those years.