The second meeting of the Newfane Class of 1968 reunion was held on October 16, 2007 at 7 p.m. in Wagner's Restaurant, Park Ave., Lockport.

General agreement has been that we should have a casual get-together on Friday night and a larger event on Saturday night. There is a need to choose firm dates. After some discussion, the weekend of August 8-10, 2008 was chosen. We realize that this may not fit with everyone's plans but it would probably be impossible to suit the needs of the more than 100 people in our class.

Several locations were considered for a Saturday night event, including local fire halls, restaurants, and wineries (There is an established wine trail in Niagara County now). After discussion of prices, caterers, and facilities, there was agreement that we would focus on Schulze Vineyard and Winery on Coomer Rd. for the Saturday event. Molly will continue to make arrangements for locations.

Caterers were discussed: Donna Eick (“ Divine Catering by Donna Eick”, 716-433-1765 or 716-622-2001) was mentioned as a favorite caterer.

We also discussed possibilities for the Friday night event. A two hour canal cruise was one suggestion. This could include food and sound system music. No final decision was made on the location for Friday night. Planning group members will continue to investigate and propose other possibilities. If ANY class member has proposals, NOW is the time to offer them!

By e-mail, Roger Gifford expressed an interest in an optional Lockport locks boat trip. Another suggestion from Roger was to schedule an informal early Saturday morning breakfast at a local restaurant with our former Newfane teachers who could attend. Roger generously offered to "pick up the tab" for the teachers; but would welcome others to share in the cost/hosting.

Financing the events was a topic of discussion. Class member donations, business donations, money raisers would all help to make up the money needed for the cost of a successful weekend. We will keep the cost as much below $100 per person for the weekend as we can.

Chris Wolansky and Molly Maigret will be in charge of finances, with Chris assigned to open a credit union account for the class reunion funds. Due to overpayment for chicken wings by some class members at the meeting, those that were still in attendance agreed to use the money as seed money for the reunion funds "pot". (Not that kind! :-}

Sue Manning and Patty Truax will investigate possibilities for the production of a class reunion booklet and advance notice flyers. Funding for the booklets was discussed. We may use these booklets as a fund raiser, charging for the booklet and shipping for those who want it to be mailed. Any other ideas concerning this are welcome. We ask that if anyone in the class is a professional artist, graphic

or digital designer, or has any other professional experience to offer that would help to make the reunion a success, please contact us through Roger or another class member.

Patty Truax will continue to pursue the many leads she has available to find class members. All interested members are asked to "spread the word" to any class members and those associated with the class of 1968 who may be interested.

The next planning meeting will be held on November 8, 2007 at Gordie Harper Bazaar, 3333 Lockport-Olcott Rd., Newfane at 6p.m. See you there!

Submitted by Sue Manning

October 19,2007