The Bradford Area High School Alumni Association held its 2019 annual October banquet at the Bradford Club with 79 reservations having been received.
Twenty-five classes between 1942 and 1976 were represented.
Members and guests were welcomed by president Bill Moore, who asked for a moment of reflection to honor the memory of 11 members who were deceased since the last dinner. Some thoughts and memories were shared about Ferris Thompson, ’44; Ray Galle, ’44; Ed Kuser, ’46; Jack Keltz, ’46; Phyllis Jones DiFonzo, ’47; Gloria Persichini Owens, ’47; Ann Wilson Brown, ’47; Mary Lindy Crattie, ’48; Ann Markowitz, ’56; Glenda McCord Whelan, ’64; and member spouse, Joe Charles, a 1950 St. Bernard High graduate and strong supporter of the association since its beginning.
Roger Alexis was called on to give the invocation prior to the evening meal. After dinner, drawings for several prizes were held, followed by introductions. Those mentioned were officers and members of the local committee that meets monthly on the fourth Thursday for lunch and association business. Also noted were the 12 new members who were attending their first banquet and those people who had traveled some distance to take part in the event. The latter included the Metzos, who once again came from several parts of the country to include the banquet in their family reunion.
A highlight of the evening was a talk given by Dr. Anita Herbert, ’55, who reviewed the life and accomplishments of Roger Hane, ’56, an internationally acclaimed illustrator whose career was cut short while in his mid-30s as a result of a holdup in New York City.
A brief review of the scholarship program, which is supported by nominal dues and member donations, was held. It was reported that 41 awards have been given to date with at least three per year projected into the future. Members were thanked for their continued interest and support for the project.
In closing, the group was reminded of the Alumni Association Flea Market/Vendor Sale fundraiser planned for the following weekend at Hill Memorial Church with all receipts from alumni sales plus vendor fees to be used to supplement the scholarship fund.
The next banquet is scheduled for Oct. 3, 2020. Membership is open to anyone who attended Bradford High, whether graduated or not, or served the schools in any capacity. Those interested in joining may do so by writing to Box 754, Bradford, or by calling 368-6892.
