Tom Bates

Hi Gene,

In working on the Swarthmore reunion, I found the alumni office of the college extremely good and helpful.  But of course, they exist with the primary goal of getting donations from alumni.

I haven't found the same with Berea.  I've been contacted about updating some information but I didn't because I thought it was just a scheme to put together a book to try to SELL to people in it.  Personally, I have found Larry Froehlich's site and work extremely valuable and probably as good or better than what is available anywhere else.

JMHO,

Tom

Tom Bates

This is a response to Denny's post about cost.

Yes, it will be more for an out of state person.  And I think that should be considered.

Having said that, I was recently in Elyria (where I have an aunt -- 86 years old -- and stayed with her).  I imagine others may have relatives also.

Secondly, local classmates might be able to put up a friend of theirs.  So I don't know if they would have to stay in a hotel.

Next, when I was in Elyria, I rented a car on Friday from Enterprise and returned it in Cleveland on Monday and got a weekend rate of $9.99 a day; under $35 for three days with taxes and fees not taking extra insurance.

Just for clarification, we are talking about 2017, aren't we?  I'm going to be out of the country September and October 2016.

Karen Clarke (Weber )

Hey y'all-yes,I live in Tennessee-Well,things haven't changed much in 50 years-still a class divided!Have been following this discussion with interest, since am planning on attending. Not sure why-usually pretty apathetic about these events-did go to 10th and that must not have been too exciting, since it was my last. However, that growing list of names in the In Memory section of this site and curiosity have motivated me-plus,IT'S THE 50TH-last chance probably to see friends/enemies from the past.Some things ya just gotta do! OK-as far as my thoughts on date and venue-Favor Sept-Oct, but summer ok if that is the majority choice.As far as type of experience-agree with Judy and Rich -go big-does that mean glitzy? Is there such a thing as casual glitzy-lean towards that.Obviously, the major hurdle in decision-making is the venue. Have actually done some research on this-was in Berea this week-had lunch with Bruce Bethany and we stopped at the Crown Plaza on Engle Rd at Bagley-talked to Jennifer Metz-(director of sales) and got tour of facilities.You can check out their site-CrownPlazaCLE.com-nice secluded area on lower level of hotel-banquet room,with space for band/dancing if we wanted-also smaller room that opens to nice bar for reception/quiet areas-plus restaurant on same level-also indoor pool with large outdoor deck that can be used for dining or drinks if we do a summer thing. Free airpor shuttle-runs every 30 min.-plus they can provide van for side trips -downtown Cleve, shopping,sports events etc.Room rates-discounted from 149/night to 109/night if we reserve block of 10 at the least.Plus 6 other hotels there on Engle within walking distance, if people wanted to stay elsewhere and were too drunk to drive.Cost? Depends on food choices-several buffet options-usually they have a cash bar at these events.Also depends on music-band? DJ? Background music only?They can customize to fit our needs. Probablycould have "Wild Thing" and "Eve of Destruction" playing softly as we socialized-A friend  of mine from Fairview had 50th there last year-cost was 75.00 per person included light snacks with cash bar on Fri night-Sat night dinner dance with live band-cash bar.This place books up fast-already reserved for 2 weekends in Oct 2017 and 1 in Sept and 1 in July-Aug is their slow month. OK-if this is too glitzy, check out Midpark Class of 66 reunion on Facebook. Their 50th is next month-Fri night casual at Tony K's Bar & Grill on Bagley-cash bar and order from menu.Sat night 6-12 @ Michaud"s Town & Country in Strongsville-soft drinks, berr,wine provided-dinner buffet. Sun morn brunchat old Midpark school catered by Tony K's and tour of school. Cost 60.00 per person. OK-if this is too glitzy there is the VFW hall,but please,no-can't we do better than this?  Just my opinion-not trying to offend anyone

Karen Clarke (Weber )

A few more thoughts-Agree with Rich and Denny re optional activities-Spouses and escorts?dates?whatever, will be bored to death while rest of us relive 1967 for the 10th time, so need some other activities -picnic? Rock Hall of Fame? Casino? Cleve sports event? golf outing?tour of downtown Berea? On Sat people could do things in smaller groups, depending on their interests-or just hang out and drink/eat wherever-lots of choices for that. Also agree that need a volunteer committee-preferably some with experience at organizing past reunions and easier with local people-Leslie? Dianne? Pam? Bruce,you said you would  help-remember? Midpark has an 8 member committee-a copy of their registration forms is online-they requested a 20.00 deposit from attendees upfront since they evidently had no $$ in their treasury either. Then people had to pay the balance by April(reunion is in June). As for contacting people-Gene has some good suggestions-think that directory is 90 bucks -not out yet-Jane Swanson (BHS'69) told me she had just ordered one. This site probably best way to reach people-I know quite a few snoop around on it,but don't participate.Speaking of that I did get a few more votes from people I have talked to -Sally Dean said any time except July is good for her, Carol Swanson said Sept-Oct,Kris Luedtke said any time/any place, Brucesaid Sept-Oct.Hopefully they will post their thoughts.That's enough of my thoughts-

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Rich Kitts

Perhaps we can at least agree that casual attire will be appropriate for all events. That could help us eliminate any baggage or misconceptions that result from the use of terms like “glitzy” or “formal”.

Karen & Bruce, thanks for checking out the Crown Plaza Hotel. I was planning to visit it in two weeks when I’ll be staying nearby on a stopover prior to my wife’s 50th reunion in NW Ohio. Now I’ll have a morning free to explore the sights of Middleburg Heights! Based on what I see on the hotel’s website, the Crown Plaza looks like it could be an ideal venue.

Also, a friend of my brother-in-law operates a company that provides transportation for conventions in Cleveland. If helpful, at some future time I may be able to get some suggestions and cost estimates for daytrips or tours that are popular with visitors to Cleveland.

Rich Kitts

Since it’s impractical to venture outside with Post-Tropical Cyclone Bonnie parked directly over my house, I found some time for a quick email exchange with the Director of Union and Conference Services for BW. 

Although the BW website indicates that they can host outside events, it doesn’t appear that BW is a viable option. I’m posting what I learned so that the committee has enough information to decide whether to investigate further. Here’s what I learned:

Pros

     Extensive dining options available - Buffet prices from $13.95 to $16.95  Plated dinners from $13.95 - $29.95

     Ballroom (main room of student center) can be rented for $600 (plus  additional set-up fees if necessary) 

     Band or DJ is permitted

Cons

     Ballroom unlikely to be available when school is in session (it's the primary dining hall) -  BW would prefer a summer event

     Alcohol limited to beer & wine purchased from a licensed distributor (not retail). We would have to obtain a temporary liquor permit from the state ($40 - $150)

     Two Security guards required @ $25 -$30 / hour (each ?) 

     BW is unable to reserve a date until Jan/Feb - after recurring events are scheduled 

Carol Waldrop (Holcomb)

Hey y'all , I live in Mississippi and would love to attend a 50th reunion.  I really need to start checking this site more often.  Not sure when the previous posts were made or if the plans have been made but as a widow probably coming alone I would love to see the weekend be based in a hotel. That is how we do our family reunions.  Something simple the first night and maybe a buffet dinner the next. Perhaps the locals could provide a potluck for all the first night or appetizers.  Tour of BHS for sure!  Just some thoughts.

Tom Bates

Its not an issue for me, coming out of state because I have relatives in Elyria, but for others traveling alone who don't have a place to stay it would be nice, closer to the date, to have some way of arranging shared hotel rooms or possibly staying with a local classmate.

Carol Waldrop (Holcomb)

If we base everything at a hotel with airport shuttle it would eliminate the need for a rental car .  Just thinking about it again.

Mike Wrobel

We are forming a committee to plan the 50th reunion based on Tom Hardy's call for volunteers.  If I've over looked anyone that wants to help with the process please let me know.  

I think we'll be call on all to see who may have contacts or connections to help our cause.

Mike Wrobel

I've heard that some classmates never received the email or joined the reunion group on facebook, so I'm posting and sending again.

Here’s the latest on our 50th reunion. 

First of all the dates. We have decided on September 29, 30 and Oct 1 of 2017. There were a lot of opinions on having it earlier like May or during the All Class reunion in July, and even later around Thanksgiving, but most of the responses were for early fall because vacations will be over and more people can attend.

Martha Irwin (Vassel )

Mike and all, 

I have a  friend that works for Lolly the Trolley,  I could check availability and cost for a tour of BereaCleveland.  There have been so many changes in Cleveland, some might be interested!  I know some locals that don't travel around the city!  I would be glad to check into this if you think there would be some interest!  As far as me attending, I would probably attend Friday night at Tony K's. Since I have an 80 yr. old husband, Saturday night would be a no for me.  Let me know what you think about the Trolley

Marty (Irwin) Vassel

Diane Merritt

I look forward to seeing as many BHS '67 alums and family as can attend September 29, 30 and Oct 1 of 2017. I am back on this site with an updated email (no longer on gmail). Happy to see that Cleveland has had some great sports publicity (go Indians!) with Believeland and LaBron James. I remember my father stting out in the backyard listening faithfully to the Indians on his transitor radio, he must be smiling to hear that his team is doing well.  Being from St. Louis, I must admit that the National League will be ready (our pitchers are batters!).  Since Ohio is still a battleground state, each Ohio vote for President carries lots of weight. Looking forward to seeing everyone next year.

Diane Merritt 

Gene Berg

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and Happy New Year to everyone!

Gene Berg

Barbara Freeburn (Harshey)

Would like to Merry Christmas and a safe and properous New Year. I also believe we should all pray for peace around the world, especially starting at home.

Barb

Betty Fitzgerald (Luff)

Merry Christmas 🎄🎅🏼 And Happy New Year, Fellow Braves!  See you in 2017!>p>

Gene Berg

Ray,

I enjoyed reading and reflecting on your "Life Happens" piece. It is so true! Looking forward to see old school friends this weekend!

Gene Berg

Gail Brown (Steiger)

Mike Wrobel - you are the man!  Thanks so much for stepping up to the plate to make our "50th" Reunion happen!  Happen it did - and what a great turnout!  It was wonderful to see friends from the past and reminisce about days of old!  It was also very interesting to hear what has happened over the last 50 years with so many of our classmates.  Ray's "Life Happens" piece (seen at the tab at the top of the home page) was really poignant!  I really enjoyed having him and his wife, Jane, at our dinner table on the Nautica Queen.  What keen insights and what inclusive thinking.  Thanks Ray!

I'm feeling very blessed to be alive to have had the opportunity to enjoy this "reunion" of those classmates who all played an important part of my life in high school.  Prayers for those who couldn't attend..... you were missed!

Thanks again Mike!  It was extremely kind and generous of you to put this together for all to enjoy!

Gail

Gail Brown (Steiger)

Thanks Larry... for building and improving and maintaining our website.  This takes a great deal of time... and you've gone above and beyond to provide great memories and a way for classmates to connect with friends as well as history of our time in Berea.

Appreciate all you do!  You're AWESOME!!!!!

Gail

Charlene Keesy (Hanchak)

Mike, thanks for the trip back and time and chance to catch up with friends and clssmates of our formative years!!!  Spending time together will remain with me forever.  Thanks!!!  After almost 40 years of living in the same town Pat Flahety and I reconnected!!  Just one of many discoveries as a result of this weekend!!!

Leslie Douglas (Douglas)

Mike, you did a wonderful job with the reunion.  Thanks for taking it on and making it a memorable event.  It was great catching up with so many classmates.  This was one of the best reunions.

Betty Fitzgerald (Luff)

Terrific weekend!  Thanks for taking on the organizing of it Mike!  Great to see you all again...we are so lucky to have been able to maintain these connections through 50 (!) years.  Amazing.

Tom Bates

Kudos Mike.  I had low expectations and everything was terrific!  Friday I came 1/2 hour late planning to stay no more than an hour and ended up staying over 3 hours!  It was so good to see so many people again.

Leslie Douglas (Douglas)

It was great to see so many class mates at the 50th reunion.  An e-mail list was collected at the Saturday night event.  I know that some people were not able to attend the reunion or the Saturday night event.  If you would like to have your contact information added to the e-mail list, please send me a message via this site and I can add you to the list.  Thanks, Leslie Douglas

Sally Taylor (Dickson)

Hi Leslie,  

Please add my email address to your list. I couldn’t go to the reunion.   I wish I could have.  

Kelley.sally2@gmail.com 

Thank you   

Sally