By John Andrews

I don't remember how old I was when I made my television debut as a member of Captain 11's crew. I do know it was my birthday, so my family drove from Lake Norden to Sioux Falls for the show. I also remember we had this new-fangled contraption called a VCR on which we could record the show and I could watch myself afterward. Thrilling seems too tame a word.

Every kid in the studio was in awe when the Captain appeared in his blue uniform. I'd never a sound as loud as the roar that erupted when he asked, "How's my crew today?" I was always fascinated with the little switchboard where kids "selected the cartoons," so I was excited to flip one of the switches. I even managed to coherently say my name and age when he came around with the microphone. And even though I didn't get to try the treasure chest, being on Captain 11 was an experience I'll always remember.

Dave Dedrick was Captain 11 from 1955 to 1996, making his show the longest running children's show in television history. Three generations of kids who grew up in KELOLAND have the same memories I do, and now we can relive them at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre. When Dedrick retired in 1996, the time converter and other props from the show were donated to the State Historical Society. After Dedrick's death on Jan. 22, a temporary exhibit went up in the Heritage Center's lobby. It features a giant Tootsie Roll and the popular treasure chest, photos, posters and other memorabilia. His blue uniform is on display in the museum's "Changing Times" exhibit.

So if you have fond memories of the Captain, visit the Cultural Heritage Center. And don't feel ashamed if you find yourself waving with both hands and both feet.