This month we are turning over the column to Bozo Noland, who by now, you know, is hard at work putting together a second (in number not in splendor) mini-reunion for the upcoming fall. It is in the form of "Report to the Class" and is so well done that we didn't dare change a word. Bozo, you are on. "Dear '39er:
"You will recall my writing you on November 6, 1979, concerning the Dartmouth William and Mary game in Williamsburg, Va., on October 11, 1980, and about 39's plans for a mini-reunion on that occasion. This is to let you know how things stand. We sent out 502 letters complete with self-addressed return cards; 232 have been returned, and, of that number, 41 said 'I definitely intend to participate,' 51 said 'I am not quite sure, but please hold a room for me,' and 140 said 'Count me out.'
"As I told you, the big problem in Williamsburg at that time is rooms. Among other things, it is William and Mary's parents weekend. The whole affair was pretty much underway before MacMannis drafted me. However, I feel the class of '39 can be assured of rooms, up to a reasonable limit - the only question is where. Our initial commitment for 20 rooms was obtained from the Cascades Motor House. I can assure you - from my own experience - that this is a very nice place and leaves little to be desired. On the other hand, the Williamsburg Lodge is more centrally-located to the restored area. I very much hope that we will end up there and have reason to believe that will be the case. Both properties are operated by Colonial Williamsburg.
"For obvious reasons, in working with Colonial Williamsburg, it is important that we keep our logistical information up-to-date. So, if and when your plans change, as compared to the advices you have furnished us by card, please write or telephone Ms. Paula Cox, c/o Noland Company, 2700 Warwick Boulevard, Newport News, Va. 23607 or 804/247-0121. Ms. Cox has kindly volunteered to be our minireunion recording secretary.
"I envision 39's weekend in Williamsburg as a largely unstructured affair. In my view, the full enjoyment of Williamsburg and all its related activities can best be savored by strolling, looking, and just doing casually the things that most appeal to one. There's something for everybody! There are a few exceptions to this unstructured approach, as follows: 1) If we can beguile certain witless classmates into chairing golf and tennis committees, we will plan to arrange such activities throughout the weekend. 2) I have something in mind for Friday evening, October 10. More of this later. 3) A pre-game tent 'within easy walking distance of the football stadium' and with food and liquid refreshments will be hosted by the Dartmouth Club of Central Virginia. 4) The College has finalized plans for a post-game reception (6:00 p.m.) and dinner (7:00 p.m.) at the Williamsburg Lodge. This promises to be a real fun affair. Arrangements will be made for '39 to be together as a group at this function. 5) The College will sponsor a seminar on Colonial history on Sunday, October 12. Jere Daniell '55, professor of history, and Thad Tate, director of Colonial history, Williamsburg, Va., will lecture. (N.8.: Items 4 and 5, as well as game ticket availability, will be announced in the May issue of the ALUMNI MAGAZINE, along with application forms. All arrangements for same must be made directly with the College, c/o David E. Orr '57.)
"My 'feel' is that all events for the Dartmouth weekend in Williamsburg will be a big sellout, so I urge that you make your arrangements for these events immediately following your receipt of the College's formal advices concerning same. David Orr has assured me that seats for the game and for the dinner (Item 4) can be arranged together for us, so be certain to identify all your applications for these items to the College as "39.'
"When MacMannis conscripted me to undertake this mini-reunion job, frankly, I looked upon it as a chore from which I had no graceful exit. I feel that I should now admit that I have thoroughly enjoyed all the messages on the cards and hearing from many of you."
We leave Bozo's report briefly to advise that, while it contained scads of newsworthy tidbits from classmates flung 'round the girdled earth, we had to take the prerogative to withhold such comments until the April issue due entirely to a lack of space. We'll whet your appetite only by saying that it is amazing how many names appear that normally do not grace this column. So, until April, and our next saga from the South. . . .
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