Central high school in Sioux City Iowa - The Castle On The Hill

Central High School: The Castle on the Hill Reunion

I get younger every year, and I'm not just talking about my energy levels! I recently attended a high school reunion at Central High School in Sioux City, Iowa, affectionately known as "The Castle on the Hill."

A Blast from the Past

Central High was completed in the late 1800s, with classes starting in the late 1890s. The school closed its doors to teaching in 1972 when three new high schools were built. I was thrilled to see many familiar faces, including a female student who graduated in 1941 – the same year I was born! My most memorable moment during the two-day event was chatting with Stan Smith (Dr. Stan Smith radiologist from Petoskey, Michigan) over dinner on Saturday night. We reminisced about our high school days, and I discovered we were both captains of the swim team in consecutive years – he in 1958, and I in 1959.

Exploring Sioux City

Our gracious host, Greg Cabana, took us on extended driving tours of the area. We stopped by T and S Antiques, where Sheryl Warfield Brosamle gave us a warm welcome. What caught my attention was that her brother Maris dated my mother in the 1930s – quite an interesting story! A young farm boy with a pistol kidnapped them one night, and the kidnapper even wrote to my mother from prison.

Discovering Local Delights

Greg treated us to a "tavern" sandwich (a Sioux City specialty) in Le Mars, Iowa. I indulged in a world-class hot fudge sundae at the Blue Bunny ice cream store. We visited the local farmers market twice – on Wednesday and Saturday morning – where I enjoyed freshly harvested vegetables and even had an omelette from one of the vendors.

A Love Affair with Stone Park

We went on two "steak fries" (a term my parents used for picnics) in beautiful Stone Park. This place holds a special spot in my heart, as I've been visiting it since before I was born – yes, you read that right! My family would take me there in a wicker clothes basket when I was a baby.

Never Leave the Playground

Sioux City has so much to offer, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to explore this charming city. As I always say, "Challenge both sides of your brain – every single day." Don't let age get in the way; come and experience the joy of discovery at shop.neverleavetheplayground.com.

The playground doesn't care how old you are. Join me on a new adventure every week!