1938

For some reason, when I asked about the barbershop, I forgot that there was more than one in Hanover in 1938. The one I was looking for was The Inn Barbershop, Dad Bowman, prop.

It seems I was a little premature when I told you a bridge had been named for Gerry Bly. Shortly after I sent in my copy, I received a formal invitation from the Secretary of Transportation and the Commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Public Works to participate in exercises on October 24 marking the official dedication of the bridge on State Highway Route 107 between the town of Saugus and the city of Lynn to be known as the Beldan G. Bly Bridge.

I have word from Roger and Eva Buffinton that all goes well in Tucson, Ariz. According to our old-fashioned treasurer and statistician, Bob Ross, there are 15 members of '38 living in Arizona. Roger and Eva keep busy, among other things, working with blind bowlers. Rog has been active in other ways. He managed to total his Ford at an intersection and came out of it with "merely a rattled brain and three small scratches." He was alone.

Now that things have quieted down regarding the Achille Lauro, let's get back to '38 sailors. Ben Walkley, Bill Olmstead, and Alden Bennet sailed from Basin Harbor, Lake Champlain, on August 28, on a 25-foot Bayliner, headed south. (I forgot to ask Ben, who told me about this at Oscar's, if he were aware of the fact that the first naval battle of the Revolutionary War was fought at Valcour Bay, south of Plattsburgh.) The group sailed down Lake Champlain, through the locks along the valley, and "out to sea" at Troy, N.Y., on down the Hudson River, and into the open sea from Sandy Hook to Cape May. Ben reported that it was "very exciting, and there were no casualties." Although it has been a well kept secret, they did go aground but after a few hours had things to right! Speaking of Lake Champlain, may we recommend Kenneth Roberts' Rabble in Arms. If you didn't read it in the thirties, try it now. If you did read it, it's worth rereading.

Bill Wynkoop sends greetings from New York City. Bill suggests a stopover on the way to Hanover: The Saint-Gaudens national historic site, Cornish,.N.H. He said it was "a fascinating, beautiful place!"

Jim Cotter reports no damage from Gloria at his North Falmouth place. Marsh and Pat Land dropped in on way to Rome, N.Y. Irv and Ida Stronach left in-October for visit to England.

If the fall mini-reunion is any indication, Dick Francis is going to turn out a blockbuster for the 50th. I don't have a computer, but here are some statistics re the mini. For distance: Dick and RuthNelson and Bill and Dorothy Powers came from California, and Art and Monica King were up from Florida. For Johnand Judy Fitting it was their "first reunion ever." Registration: 72. Tour guide Dick described it as "truly an affair to cherish."

More on the 50th: Phyllis Hill has agreed to be the contact for the class of 1938 widows. There are approximately 80 widows listed on various class computer readouts. Phyllis and Ellie Von Pechmann attended the mini.

From Keats to the late 20th century is a big jump for anyone - especially treasurer Bob Ross. If for some reason you do get a duplicate billing, be patient until Bob finds you in his computer. The class record for dues is excellent. If you are one of those not on the record, please do so. Besides, you get to read the class notes once a month.

A thank you for the many cards and notes - they are good medicine. When you read this it will be the Christmas season. Elizabeth and I send our best wishes for a blessed season and good health in the years ahead. All I want for Christmas is a van equipped with a wheelchair lift. Then I will hit the road.

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