1944

Gatch-up time looms for all attendees as our 60th approaches. Tons of advance thanks to Steve Tate, Burt Bickford and their crew of handsomely paid fossils who have been giving this world-famous event tons of thought and effort. While we're at it, add cheers to class officers and exec committee for prying sufficient doremi from Stan Barr's treasury to underwrite bargain prices.

Meanwhile, last December we all received the perfect year-end gift, our 2004 class directory. Lets give unnumbered rouses to peons Dave and Grace Nutt and to Eric and Joan Barradale, who labored so diligently on this tedious task on our behalf. Both young women definitely rate their names in print for being so agreeable. In their foreword the editors acknowledge contributors to earlier compilations. They also strike a poignant note for all of us by writing, "You may not find the name of someone you remember." My someone was Pete Caldwell, who long ago soared out of our ken. They also resurrected the names of two others who had abbreviated stays in Hanover, Tony Antonides and Ted Reynolds. Let me mention in the same breath Brad Long, who graduated but was beckoned elsewhere prior to our 25 th book. Both he and Ted made me a part of their wedding parties long ago in San Francisco.

Not since our 25th book have we heard from Jerry Hodson. Well, we still haven't, for our directory's telephone number for him in Alexandria has been disconnected.

Far better luck with Joe McDevitt, who answered on the first ring. Due to geezerly but not incapacitating afflictions, he and Ann won't make it to the reunion, but Joe sure does wish us well. He continues to shoot some golf and to daub some water colors like just about everyone who lives in Carmel, and who's to say them nay? We all know that "Growing old ain't for sissies," but Joe may be the only '44 (until now) who knows that the line originated with Art Linkletter. Hey guys, here are love and kisses for a great time in Hanover.

1114 Woodburn Road, Durham, NC27705; (919) 489-4358

REUNION June 14-16 2004