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On Saturday morning, Anne Bowman brought a (pink) bag to the podium and asked if anyone would like to claim it. It was probably due to the color that no one claimed it. (Gorgeous George Jr.) got stuck in Toledo and wasn’t there, but most likely, it was his. Anne then introduced Karl Roach, who sang the National Anthem.
Jack Welch brought the invocation. Jack left everyone with a lot to think about as he declared that God is in control, but not before Jack let everyone know how he’d plan his life differently if he were in control. It seems that Jack would prefer to get old age out of the way first and work his way back in time, until he finds himself back in the womb. It was a funny object lesson stuff with a good message.
Bob Kelly introduced the Board of Directors and recognized them for the hard work and time they devote to the reunion. He also expressed his thanks to Florence, Ricky, Shane and Becky Fields, who do such a good job heading up the entertainment committee. Others mentioned were Lee Fields, for providing the place to meet, and Skip Wetjen, who with his crew of great cooks, prepared all of the food (none of it was catered). His cooks included Betty Wetjen, Pam Weeks, plus Nancy, Terry and Nanette.
Terry then introduced Bill Bowman, who has the unenviable job of leading the "Ten-Bell Salute," the annual memorial to those who passed away during the year. Bill read a touching poem dedicated to those who are no longer with us, then read the list of names. Bill’s emotions overwhelmed him as he came to Rip Tyler’s name and he was unable to continue for a minute or two. It was a special moment ... a moment that touched the hearts (and eyes) of many of Rip’s friends ... a moment that revealed the deep feelings that so many of the boys have for one another. The room was silent as the bell sounded ten times for our departed friends.
Penny Banner and Sputnik Monroe (Beauty and the Beast) were awarded this year’s "Living Legend" awards. Everyone got a good laugh as Penny accepted her award. After stepping up to the microphone, she made the statement that "Tennessee was my favorite territory out of all of them." When she got back to her seat, she realized that her foot was hanging out of her mouth, so she pulled it out and made a hasty correction by saying, "Oh, I meant to say the Alabama territory." Everyone decided that Penny had accidentally given the speech that she had been practicing in case she ever won an award in the Tennessee territory. (grin)
Anne Vaughn (Mrs. Rip Tyler) was asked to come up on stage with her two daughters, Cincy and Julie, to accept a Living Legend award for the late Rip Tyler. Terry talked about how much Rip meant to the success and continuance of this reunion. Rip’s absence was really evident to many of us. At past reunions, Rip was a whirlwind of activity, always making sure that everything was running on schedule.
Corsica Joe was the proud (and surprised) recipient of the "Man of the Year" (Speedy Hatfield Award) Award for 1998.
Special recognition awards went to Karl Roach and Jackie Welch for their hard work and contribution to the reunion. |
