NEWARK'S FIRST REUNION HUGH SUCCESS

Planning for Newark's first Family Reunion got underway in the fall of 1998. An organization was formed by Earl Bodem, a former Director of Plans at the Center who retired in 1979. The objective was to recognize all former employees of this highly decorated Center for its accomplishments and celebrate a 34 year heritage.    

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The non-profit organization known as NAFB/AGMC Family Reunions was formed and registered with the State of Ohio. By July 1999 over 100 names had been added to a formal mailing list. A corporate sponsor, Park National Bank, agreed to assist and in early spring a T-shirt sale got underway to defray some of the expenses.

The former Base NCO Club and Patio facilities were made available for the adults and the use of Hess Park for the children's activities was arranged with the local Port Authority. Committees were organized, volunteers solicited and the two day outing got underway on Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd August, 1999.

The weather was perfect allowing for a Golf Outing to get underway at Newark's Licking Springs Country Club. Tim Gartner was the chairman who arranged a day of golf, prizes & refreshments. Then on Sunday promptly a 12:00 noon, thanks to many volunteers, the Club, Patio and Hess Park became alive with colorful decorations and a host of activities. A steady stream of former employees and friend began to arrive to take part in a afternoon of friendship, good food, beer and entertainment. Before the activities ended more than 300 had participated in our first ever reunion.

A special theater was setup and video films restored memories of over a century of the base events. Films of Metrology programs, Minute Man Missile history, Base Opening & Closure ceremonies and the more recent Boeing activities.

Raffles, drawings and musical entertainment took place on the patio and a Barbershop Chorus, a Quartet and featured Vocalist were part of the closing ceremonies. Many activities were arranged for children including clowns, face painting, crafts and games. Outstanding prizes donated by the local merchants were awarded. Each participant that entered the gates received a 16 page Commemorative "On Target" newspaper chuck full of memorabilia to keep as a souvenir.

Great enthusiasm was acknowledged by all those who attended and great disappointment by those who for various reasons were unable to attend. Former employees came from as far away as North Carolina, Georgia and Florida just to attend. Newspapers from Newark, Heath, Perry County, Zanesville and Columbus printed stories, photographs and many favorable accolades of those who attended.

There is no question a turn out of over 300 was fair for a first event. There is no question that the first reunion was a complete success. There is no question we will attract a big crowd (maybe too big?) for our second reunion to be held during the year of the MILLENNIUM.