Streamers lined the SURC as a banner with the words “Happy Anniversary Bert and Ernie!” scribbled on it was hung from the ceiling to celebrate CWU alumni Bert and husband Ernie’s 50 years of marriage together.

Bert graduated with a degree in bird watching in 1965 and would meet the then boy next door Ernie at his new Sesame Street apartment after leaving his hometown of Ellensburg. Bert proposed four years later at the Stonewall Riots. 

The event was put together with the help of the alumni board and Bert’s old friend Jim Wohlpart. They tried their best to keep it a surprise, but according to Wohlpart, it’s hard to get a couple on a plane right before their anniversary date without raising a few eyebrows. 

“Bert’s always been a nervous flier,” Wohlpart said. “He was asking a hundred questions as we boarded the plane.”

Over 500,000 people were at the party, nearly meeting the capacity for the SURC. 

All eyes were on the dance floor as Big Bird and Wellington discoed into the night. 

“I never expected such a cool cat to be willing to boogie with me,” Big Bird said. 

The party went late into the night, causing many to complain about the noise. When police officers arrived in response, rather than breaking the party up they joined in, diving onto the dancefloor to do the worm with Slimey. 

The happy couple were seen laughing and enjoying themselves throughout the entire night.

“I can’t believe that this many people came out to celebrate with us,” Bert said. “To have so many good friends, it’s even better than oatmeal.”

Around halfway through the party, Ernie finally managed to pull Bert onto the dancefloor for a slow dance to “Can’t Help Falling in Love With You” by Elvis Presley.

“He has two left feet and no sense of rhythm,” Ernie said. “But there’s no one I’d rather dance with.”