1946

They came from near; They came from far; '46ers so dear; How great you are. Yes, the 50th Reunion is in the books. One word sums it up: wonderful! Oh sure, it rained a bit and there were a few glitches here and there, but on the whole just a super affair and a super job done by chairman Jim von Rohr and his staff. And von Rohr is girding up for the 55th already. Total attending: 372 A couple of men should be commended for work above and beyond the call. I'm talking about Reg Pierce and Ed Scheu for a great Reunion book. Thanks to all of you who sent pictures and told us all about yourself. If you want a book, send Reg 40 bucks. His address is 261 Dogford Road, Etna, NH 03750.

Lowell Thomas gave a great talk and showed a video he had produced about Alaska. Told me he has given up flying people around Mt. McKinley. Bill Spoor gave the Reunion address and as you would expect, it was outstanding, from an outstanding classmate. Following Bill's address, financial wizard Tom Adams (all kneel) presented a check to President Freedman for $890,000.00 and that's no misprint. What a job! And our goal was $600,000.00. For your information, the class of 1946 has contributed $4.3 million in Alumni Fund giving. And that doesn't include millions more given by certain classmates, most of whom prefer to remain anonymous. Frank Ettari reports another $600,000.00 in bequests.

I know I prodded you over and over about the 50th. But here this. We're having a mini-reunion this October 17th to 19th. Yeah, this year. Football game against some outfit from New Haven. John McClintock will advise further in his newsletter. A class meeting was held. The Hannigan (Jud, that is) regime came to an end and Ham Bailey stepped down after ten years as treasurer. Great job by both of you. The nominating committee submitted a new slate, and in the manner of a "Boss Tweed" ward meeting, stifled all nominations from the floor. As a result the new prexy is Buol Hinman, and the treasurer Andy Gruninger. No one wanted to be secretary and despite my "if nominated I will not run; if elected I will not serve," your writer was named secretary again, followed by a raucous demonstration, heaven help us! All other officers remain the same.

A couple of sad notes. Former president Jack Whitman was unable to attend because of the death of longtime friend and a frequent reunion attendee, Natalie Kneale. She passed away just three days before Reunion. And Bob Kimball, our veep, was unable to attend all the function. Laid low by a disk problem and now awaiting surgery, out best to you Bob. Father John O'Brien, S.J., came all the way from die Vatican and gave the memorial address in Rollins Chapel. A very moving occasion and we gave silent salute to our deceased classmates. Again, thank you all for making it the best of the 50ths. Now all enjoy the summer.

1115 5th Ave., Asbury Parrk, NJ 07712

Bert Ibelle '46 reunes, p. 25