Relay Watchers....FOREVER

     Dang weather. The forecast is not looking good for the annual Drake Relays this weekend. HOWEVER, it will not deter the enthusiasm some Boone natives have for the relays, which they've been attending as a group since 1956.......that's over 60 years. Weatherwise at Drake.......they've seen it all.

     As per usual in recent years, the group invited the old Kornerman to meet with them the day prior to the Relays start and we got together at the local McDonald's. An original member of the crew was Larry McAnnally, BHS-59, who passed away in 1993. A year ago, Dr. Alan (Buddy) Munson, BHS-59, the old BHS quarterback, joined us and this year, Mel Murken, BHS-59, came around.

     The solid three, Steve Shaler and Tim Croxen, both 59'ers and Barry Wills, BHS-58, who still refuse to yield the tradition, were on hand as usual as were all the usual historical "stories" fact or fiction.

     I know, in reviewing last year's meeting, that I told this story provided by Croxen. Its so good, I'm repeating it. 

     Tim, who has traveled the world in his occupation, was in France. He said he had a very small Tiger Hawk, the University of Iowa logo, on his jacket and noticed a much older lady staring at him since their arrival at a restaurant. Finally, the very soft spoken lady approached Tim, pointed at that Tiger Hawk and said just two words before departing. "Caitlin Clark."

 K-----K

     The review in the recent Korner of former Boone residents remembering their jobs as local youngsters has resulted in some response.

    Allan Dannatt, BHS-59, wrote from Texas that he agreed with all the talk provided about the great job opportunities young people were given in their growing up years in Boone. 

     From the state of Washington Ron Hopkins, BSH-59, wrote, "I had jobs starting at age 14.....the Des Moines Tribune, two grocery stores, Red's Toy and Hobby shop, state game farm, Schiff's shoes and Redeker Furniture. Noteworthy bosses were Red Theis and Stan Redeker. One summer, I  ran Red's store, which was located under Meyer's Clothing, northwest corner of Eighth and Story. I was "in charge" Monday through Friday while Red and his wife were on the road working for a toy distributor. My pay was $12 a week."

     P.S It just so happened that I recognized Ron in our bakery recently. He was on a short visit to Boone to see his sister, Linda Nutt. It was nice to visit with him "in person."

K-----K

     We're continuing our effort to invite new Korner watchers. We're amazed about the "enrollment' we have, which is probably at an all-time high, BUT, of course, we want even more. There are still many area residents who are unaware of what we provide......especially up-to-date area death information.........many that are never reported on any other site. So, continue to "pass the word" to prospective watchers.

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