The last reunion of The Oakland Alumni Assoc. was held on August 10th, 2002 at Messalonskee High School. Enjoying the social hour and buffet lunch were 196 alumni and guests.

The luncheon was catered by alumna Helen Bridges. Peter Bastow '54 was the emcee, and Blaine Ellis `55, conducted the business meeting. Rev. John Fenelson '57 gave the blessing. Frances Doyon '55 the Welcome, and Richard Bastow '52 the Response. Betty Pellerin, Madeline Boudreau, and Linda Grady, all members of the class of 1954 were hostesses. Dwight Taylor class of 1929 was the oldest alumnus present, and Melinda Grady Gallagher, class of 1987 was the youngest.

The largest class represented was 1952 with 17 attending, observing its 50th anniversary. Former teachers in attendance were Arthur Clark and Helen Gallagher.

Past officers present were Alfred Wheeler, President 11 times (he and his wife Barbara, were the oldest alumni couple): Julia Brown, Secretary 11 times: and Hilda Bickford, President five times, Secretary two times.

The third annual Eagle Award was presented to Harland "Hardy" Taylor, for his many years of community service with the Oakland Fire and Rescue.

The OAA yearbook project sponsored by the class of 1954 is nearly completed. Fifty years, 1920-1970, of the Ripple yearbooks will be housed at the Oakland Public Library.

The Victory Bell relocation project on the grounds of Messalonskee High School is being spearheaded by Gwen Bacon of MHS. This bell was purchased and removed from the old Oakland High School building in 1974 and presented to MHS by the OAA.

Officers elected for the coming year are: Blaine Ellis, president; Frances Doyon, vice president; Alan Charles, secretary; and Dan Grady, treasurer.

Bert Marston and his family gave the annual Barbara T. Marston door prize of $100, which was awarded to Janet Coughlin, who then returned the gift to the OAA treasury.