Big turnout expected for Free Soil reunion

Free Soil school opening dedication in 1913.

FREE SOIL – The Free Soil Schools All Class Reunion Community Celebration will take place on the campus of the old school on June 22, just over a week before the school system ends its existence and becomes part of Mason County Eastern Schools. It’s most likely going to be one of the biggest parties Free Soil has ever had.

“We are expecting 500 to 800 people,” Phil Keilman, the alumni association chairman said. “So far we’ve had 300 people RSVP, and most of them will be bringing at least one guest.”

The party will kick off at 3 p.m. with some special announcements and a key note speech from Jim Jackoviak, a member of Free Soil’s state champion basketball team from the 1960s, and a former MCE school administrator.

The afternoon will also include activities for kids and adults, live music, food, drink and lots of reminiscing.

The celebration not only observes the end of the school district but also the school’s centennial. Below is the schedule of events:

1 to 3 p.m.: Pre-registration.

3 to 3:45 p.m.: Commencement activities including announcements, speakers, awards, recognitions. Key note speaker Jim Jackoviak; blessing by David Dzjolek.

3 to 6 p.m. Just For Fun polka band in gym.

3:45 to 9 p.m.: Athletic events and games for the whole family.  Bounce houses for kids all day.

4 p.m.: Photographs.

4 to 5 p.m.: Reading activities for the kids with Susan Carlson of the Mason County District Library.

4 to 8 p.m.: Athletic contests/games for all ages with prizes.

5 p.m.: Dinner featuring pig roast, burgers, bratwurst, hot dogs, sides. Donation for dinner is requested.

6 to 8 p.m.: John Marek, music and magic.

6 to 9 p.m.: Cats ‘n Jammers classic rock band in gym.

8 p.m.: Silent auction drawing, items will be on display all day.

8 to 9 p.m.: Treasure hunt.

9 p.m. to end: Shot Man Band classic rock in gym.

11 p.m.: Bonfire and possible fireworks.

The alumni association board includes members from the classes of 1956 to 2004. They include: Jason Austin, 2004; Anna Morong-Bazarik, 1963; James Carey, 1962; Melvin Carey, 1961; Kimberly Drake, 1993; Bernita Eddy-Nesbitt-Hurd, 1962; Steve Rybicki, 1986; Kellie Mckie-Shilander, 1984; James Stockman, 1989; Gregg Surma, 1970; Fred Thomas, 1964; Helen Gancarz, 1956; Joseph Pat Hurd, 1961. Phil Keilman serves as the board of education vice president.

For more information, visit the school’s Facebook page here; contact Keilman at pkeilman9@gmail.com or mail information to Alumni Association, 8480 N. Democrat St., Free Soil, MI 49411.