By: Jenniffer Evans

I would like to take a moment to pass on a note to all of you about this past Sunday's Newark AFB Reunion.

[Click on pictures to enlarge]

Other than a few sprinkles up to 12:30, the weather did not dampen the spirits of those who attended. It seems that a good time was had by all! The attendance was not as great as the committee had hoped, but most likely the weather and storm warnings kept some of the folks at home.

I want to let everyone know that the committee worked very hard and spent countless volunteer hours to make this reunion a success. A big thank you to Earl Bodem, William Sisco, Yvonne Lorenz, Pat Deskins, Anna Dotson, Tim Gartner, and Dan Duplantis (who set up our web site).

During the planning meeting for next year, Mr. Sisco remarked, "The National Guard Reserves set up the tents for us, the Boy Scouts set up and will be back to tear down all the tables and chairs, Helig Meiger donated the door prizes, the City of Heath had banners across Route 79. Our community has NOT forgotten us!"

Unfortunately, a lot of folks were not able to appreciate what this committee had accomplished. I must admit that after Bill stated this, I thought to myself, "Our community has not forgotten us, but WE have forgotten US!" BUT, I am going to remain optimistic and hope that next year everyone who lives in the area will make a special effort to take a few hours out of their Sunday afternoon to come and spend it with their friends and former co-workers. I have heard time and again from many people, "You just don't have the rapport and friendships where I now work like I did at  NAFB".

Also, as part of that meeting they asked for people to step up and volunteer for next year. They need a chairperson who is willing to take on the next reunion. These folks have worked very hard the past two years. They need a break, but stated they will be there next year to help the new chairperson.

If you are willing to be the chairperson for 2001, contact Earl Bodem, Yvonne Lorenz, or Bill Sisco. And they would appreciate any comments or ideas that you may have. What would get you to come to the reunion, a dinner dance, tour of the facility?