Alex, I did go on the 28th. Not the 29th. I just posted it on the 29th. Believe me, I know the date. I've had it burned into my memory for the last 32 years. That's the night I lost both of my grandparents. I know they found them, not near any exits, but they were together. He was laying on top of her. He was burnt beyond regognition (they had to use dental records) and the coins in his pocket were charred horrible. My grandmother, was just a lil' swollen, but otherwise un marked. I think therey were found in the middle of the room, which I could never understand because my grandmother was terrified of fires. I would have thought that as soon as they were told of the fire they would have gotten up to leave, but I guess the smoke got to them too quickly. How sad. I have seen ther newer memorial from I275, It looks awesome. I'd like to see it up close, so maybe one of these days I'll venture up there again. Thanks.

Leann, in regards to the lack of visitors on 05/29/09, the anniversary was 05/28/09. I meet at least 5 people there. - thanks. Alex

Leann, if you follow the trail (main trail, not the Zebra room area, that's just an offshoot of the main trail), follow back about 100 yards. You'll see a iron radiator propped up with a sign that points in direction of Cabaret Room. That's one way. You can also go to the fountain site by following the sign in the direction of the memorial. When you get to where it say's "fountain site", there are pictures of the Cabaret room on a wooden plaque (a few, in fact). At that point, turn right and go through the woods at least a good 100 feet, maybe 125 feet. Go as far as you can before the hill begins to dip downhill. There will be a plaque with a 5 foot tall makeshift cross. That is where 99 people passed away. North exit of Cabaret Room. The other exit, I believe around 30 people passed away, East exit, is maybe 300 feet south of that point. South is in the direction of the main driveway which you came up. Wear old clothes! Lots of honeysuckles prickling...

I posted the signs up on the trail. If Bob is busy, you can contact me at 859-803-7390, I can show you where the North and East Cabaret Room Exit doors are. There are plaques back there deep in the woods, if you know where to go. New trails probably need to be made. - Alex

I would be more than happy to show you around the site. You can call me directly if you wish 859-801-4773.

Bob


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Edited by author 05-30-2009 02:51 PM
We must have JUST missed each other. I got there about 4:00 and stayed for about a half an hour. Sorry I missed you. I did find thr two orange arrows pointing to a clearing to the right. I went inside and ssaew a wooden sign stating that "This is where the Zebra Room was, where the fire originated". I walked back out to the main clearing and walked further into the brush hoping to see another sign as to where the Cabaret Room was. I would have liked to stand where my Grandparent lost their lives, but didn't see anything.

Yes it is sad. I wasn't able to get to the site until about 4:30 or so. I took a couple to the top and showed them where the club once stood and where the Cabaret Room was. They seemed appreciative. No one else there.
Bob


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I went to the cemetary yesterday, my grandparents had alot of other visitord also from the amount of flowers left on their grave. I went to the site and walked around, no one else was there. I guess people really only visit this site on major anniversary's (30, 35, 40 etc). The only memorial I saw was one placed by KY noting the fire and that it was a historical site. NOTHING about the names of those who lost their lives. (How sad)

Bob,
I too have read all I can in the books about the history of The Beverly Hills and what happened that night. After reading the books I felt like I had been cheated beacuse it did not discuss the aftermath.

I went to the Memorial last year(first time I have ever been at the site since the fire) and was intervied by Angela Ingrahm (Channel 12 News), My Grandparents (Howard & Josephine Carson) were killed that night. I was 15 years old and remember it like it was yesterday. In fact, I don't think I will ever forget that night and the days fllowing trying to identify the bodies.

I did e-mail you. If you would like to speak with me I will be more than happy to tell you about how wonderful my Grandparents were and how their lives were cut short by this tragedy (as were many many others).

Hope to talk to you soon.
LeAnn

Robin,

My heart goes out to you and others who lost family members or friends. The book is coming along, slowly but surely. If you don't mind telling me, who was lost in the family? I may already have enough on them. If not, I certainly would appreciate your help.

Bob

Bob, I am a family member of more than one victim of the fire, but I don't think that I would be of much help, as I was very young at the time. As you may already be finding out, many survivors and family members of victims are unwilling to discuss the fire. I have even seen some that want nothing to do with a memorial. One of my own relatives never again said the names of those we lost. Good luck with your book.

Robin,

I am working on a more complete book on the club and the fire, which will go into more detail of the early history, as well as to tell the story of what many believe to be the true account of that night. I am devoting the final chapter to the victims, in that I want to tell a more complete story of who they were and why they were there. I think it is hard for people to understand just how horrible the fire was unless they 'get to know' the people. Other publications I've seen simply list a name, age, and hometown. I think these people, and their families, deserve more than that. Can you help?

Bob


< replied-to message removed by QT >

Why are you searching for family members of victims?

Edited by author 09-18-2008 08:00 PM
I am searching for the families of the victims or survivors of the Beverly Hills Supper Club fire. Please reply or email me at info@customphotosnky.com

PLease email me with information regarding the fire at info@hazmatohio.com

Hope everything is going well for you, Grandson.

"I lost several friends in the fire. I was recently at the site on Christmas Eve day; or at the bottom of the hill to be more presise. I wanted to walk up the hill and just look around. Although, I'm sure there's not that much to see anymore. I just feel and have felt for many years I need to go up there for some strange reason, There was a no tresspassing sign, and I did'nt want to risk spending Christmas in jail. Who could I contact to get permission to go visit the site the next time I'm in Newport?"
first of all you are in the city of Southgate. you would need to call the owners of the property to get permission and then notify Campbell County Dispatch & the Southgate Pd to let them know you have permission to be up there, from what i know they do not let people up there all the time. just for special events.

Donna, are you familiar with this? When did it occur?

Grandson...please give me some more info about the murder. I know some people who may be able to help you.I do believe that newport police does mess up cases more than they admit. Please let me know.you can email me at
 donnanewby@windstream.net

One of the guy's gf's told the police. My guess is that they denied it.

TO GRANDSON So Sorry for your loss, you mentioned the person who believed to have done the murder is in prison on another murder charge, has anyone ever questioned him about your relative?

No, nothing was done. I believe that the police felt that Verdie had something to do with the murder and did not do enough to collect evidence/follow other leads.

to Grandson, if the Newport police bothched the investigation did anyone sue the city? did the family complain to anyone about the case?

Regarding Verdie, her husband's murderer is known and is in jail for another murder. He will never be charged though because Newport police botched the investigation.

we are looking at all the reports on this please contacted me at onemoment2105@netscape.net

My Uncle was the Assistant State Fire Marshall at the time of the fire. the state and others attempted to place the blame of the fire on my uncle and others in the office. This eventually led to the resignation of the State Fire Marshall and my Uncle took over. The investigation conducted by outside interests concluded that fire regs and inspections were per code and policy. I still think it interesting that this fire is not further investigated.

Also, Life Enriching Communities is associated with the West Ohio Methodist Church Association. I am a bit suspicious about why they are holding this land. I think the community must insist that any development be in good taste and include a sginificant memorial. Perhaps contacting Church officials would be a good way to start on the project.

Tim, the property is owned by Life Enriching Communities. I pulled this from last years newspaper piece, marking the 30th anniversary...

Connie Schmitt, vice president of marketing and public relations for Life Enriching Communities (which owns the site)... She says no one should be going up there unless they have permission from her company."

 I lost several friends in the fire. I was recently at the site on Christmas Eve day; or at the bottom of the hill to be more presise. I wanted to walk up the hill and just look around. Although, I'm sure there's not that much to see anymore. I just feel and have felt for many years I need to go up there for some strange reason, There was a no tresspassing sign, and I did'nt want to risk spending Christmas in jail. Who could I contact to get permission to go visit the site the next time I'm in Newport?

For a video that includes some of the original 1977 channel 5 news footage of the fire, visit:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rsCTBHn2KIc

Hi everyone--I spearheaded the efforts to get the historical highway marker installed at the former site of the Beverly Hills Supper Club. It will be installed by Friday, Oct. 26th and the marker dedication ceremony will be held in the parking lot on Sunday Oct. 28th at 3pm. Everyone is invited. The marker explains the fire and states that it is dedicated to those who lost their lives in the fire. It is not the grand memorial that everyone has been hoping for, but it's a start.

hey i was wondering.

i am a member with the local fire Department and we have a ladder truck they said was used in theBeverly hills Supper Club Fire. I was wondering if any one had found any pics from the fire of any shots of the trucks.e-mail me at traitorneel01@yahoo.com

LeAnn,
You did just fine on the news the night of the memorial. You have nothing to worry about.

Tony,
Go to Local 12.com, then enter Beverly Hills in the search box. It will take you to all their links to this subject. One has a "watch this video", and that should take you to it.

Thornhill,
After all I've read and hearing what Dave and Wayne had to say on WLW, I'm convinced that they should re-open the investigation. Did you try e-mailing me? Sometimes the e-mail I gave you before is not very reliable. I would like to talk to you off this board. Try rschramm1@cinci.rr.com
Thanks.

Hey LeAnn,
No you definitely didn't look like a dork or anything like that. The people that lost family and friends in the Beverly Hills Supper Club fire had their very lives changed FOREVER by that event. NO ONE would judge you for your emotions at the 30th anniversary observance. Hey, look at me, flying out from Maine to northern Kentucky, meeting all you folks, some really fine people, just to participate in an observance of a tragedy that I have absolutely nothing to do with, and when Dave Brock brings me up to the podium to speak, I choke up and am barely able to do so. But I watched the video of the event, and I am fairly proud of what I said that evening. I am honored and proud to have been there and to have been asked to participate so intimately as an "outsider". I made some true friends out there, genuine souls I am honored to know. So, put those feelings aside, you had to endure a horrific event, live through it, grow stronger in spite of it, and continue with your life... But never forget. I dare anyone to look down on you for any of that.

Tony,
Unfortunately you will not find any footage of the fire off the net because they didn't have the technology back then. You can do what others have done and go to the local library and view the old newspaper reels. You will find hundreds of vivid photos along with the names and some faces of the victims. Good luck. Oh btw, if anyone watched the channel 12 news the night of the memorial, I was on t.v. They interviewed me and I need to know, Honestly, did I look crying dork or like an idiot? Please tell me. Thanks!

Does anyone who worked at the Beverly Hills Supper Club remember an employee named Verdie Tipton? She worked in the Kitchen. She passed away in 2003. Her husband was murdered in Newport,Ky and it has never been solved.

I have read everyone blogs here and they all touch me in one way or another. I also worked with David Brock at the Island's Restaurant. ( a very nice man). I was sixteen when this all happen and still to this day I talk and think of what all happened that night. For some reason not remembering the date this all took place, I took my girlfriend to the site with her kids, we walked the long driveway together and I was explaining to her what all the place looked like. Even remembering where the little chappel was. The driveway still has marks in the ground where the pillars where that ran up the drive that had lights on them.
On that night I was working at a restaurant at the bottom of the hill called the OSASIS It wasnt more than 30 from the bottom of the drive. I never got to see the film footage that was aired because we were stuck at the restaurant helping the countless number of people there.I have looked all over the net for this footage but can not find it anywhere, Even channel 12 under the sunday edition doesnt come up. Like many others my parnets were to be there that night but didnt go because my grandfathers suit didnt fit him. So I am lucky in that sence. David if you read this email me if you like. powellcecil@yahoo.com or sealus3@aol.com

As far as I know and have read the memorial will take approx. 1-2 months to make and there is talk of a dedication ceremony. I too lost both my grandparents in the fire but was lucky enough to have known them for 13 years before they (and others) were so tragically killed. My heart goes out to you. God bless.

Does anyone know anything further about the memorial? Is it up yet? When is the event? My grandparents died in the fire. I would have loved to have met them.

Edited by author 07-09-2007 08:19 AM
Saw on the FOX 19 news this morning tha here is going to be a memorial placed for the victims. Finially!!!!! I am very pleased. Stan Chelsey has donated the money for the memorial. It should be in place in about a month and there will be an event to commemorate it.

I am David Brock and I was the employee that saw 2 men working in the Zebra room the day of the fire between 10:30am to 2:00 pm,and I think they should open the investigation in reference to the Beverly Hills Supper Club fire. There has been alot of people that has contacted me in the last 3 weeks in what they now about the fire.If you have anything in this please e-mail me at / onemoment2105@netscape.net /

According to channel 9 news, authorities are reopening the investigation into the fire. They said that Wayne Dammert and a fellow former employee, have convinced them to check to see if it was arson instead of the aluminum wiring. They said two men were seen on May 27, 1977, in the Zebra room, fixing HVAC where there wasn't any.

Ken Watkins of Anderson Township worked at Rash-Saville-Crawford Heating & Air conditioning. This company was the installer of the HVAC system. Ken knew much about The Beverly Hills Supper Club and its electrical wiring problems, and was "forced" to keep quiet about it. Around this time the company (Rash-Saville-Crawford) talked of becoming part of a union and much animosity arose within the company because of it. A co worker known as Hal Holloway became a threat to this man. Ken was found dead at his desk at work at the age of 30 on Jan 28 1977. This is a suspicious death. Do you have any information??? Please email to. remend89233@mypacks.net Thank you.

I'll call this "The Mystery of the Statues." Wayne Dammert's excellent book includes photos of the Beverly Hills I hadn't seen before. After its latest remodeling, the club had three large white stone/concrete statues mounted on pedestals to the right of the entrance. They are clearly shown in the photo in Wayne's book on pages 64-65. They are still standing during the fire, as shown on pages 122-123. But immediately afterwards, several photos show the statues are MISSING, possibly knocked down by firemen or demolition crews. See the photos on pages 146 and 158. They are GONE. Okay, now here's the mystery. One final photo (page 200) shows the club a year later, just before it was to be demolished for good, and the statues have returned! Did someone put these heavy statues back on their pedestals right before they tore the building down? Why? THAT's the mystery. Can anyone explain it? Thanks, Michael

Hello! I work for WCET television, the PBS affiliate in Cincinnati. We now offer a video-on-demand service on our website. I recorded the entire 90 minute memorial service for the 30th anniversary, and it is now available for viewing online. Just go to cetconnect.org. Click on the link on the home page or search for "Beverly Hills". We are also airing a half-hour discussion about the fire on Thursday June 7 @ 7:30p on ch. 48.
On a personnel note, my parents & grandparents were there the night of the fire. Thank God they made it out safely.
I hope you enjoy the video. I can be reached at dniehoff@cetconnect.org

Michael- You're correct that the reporters themselves did an excellent job, especially with the resources that they had. The message I posted earlier about the technology was not to be viewed as "crude". I clearly explained that it was the technology they had at that time. I just thought some of the readers on this thread would find the info interesting, even though it's getting off track of the main topic here.


Thornhill- I admit, it was the pool. But I have even more neighborhood stories. They are way off track from the subject here. You can e-mail me at rickrocks@classxradio.com if you want.

I am from the Dayton, Ohio area and was only in the 5th grade when it happened. I remember hearing about the fire the next day and I read every story in the newspaper and I know it was in there for a long time. I read through every name that was lost and just prayed. I found out just about 5 years ago that my parents and their friends used to go there all the time and were supposed to be there that night but ended up not going. I always wondered exactly where it was and by using Google maps I thought I found the right place. I looked and researched for a long time. I now know by someone's earlier post where the actual site is and just from my research I was right. I bought Wayne's book on Amazon back a few years ago and just couldn't believe it. I always knew this was a horrific event but really didn't understand the magnitude of it until I read his detailed account. Wayne, you did an awesome job and my heart goes out to you. I also listened to you last week on WLW 700. I applaud everything you did that night and the last 30 years. Keep working on that memorial. Don't stop until it is there! My heart goes out to all the people that were either there or somehow affected by this tragedy. No one should ever forget what happened that night, but I am very happy to read in the diffenent papers and this site how some have closure now. I thought about you all on Monday night. May God Bless each and every one of you.

As I mentioned once before I wrote the book, Inside The Beverly Hills Supper Club Fire. Ron Elliott's name is on the cover but I wrote the story. I failed to note that if anyone wants a copy just e-mail me at johnwaynebetty@aol.com, and I will give you my address. If you send me $20.00 I will mail you an autographed copy. The book is hard cover with 280 pages and 60 pictures. I don't really push the book and that price along with mailing is just about what it cost me. I have seen the book on used books for up to $50.00. It has been published for over 10 years now. I am very proud of the service we had Monday night. It was gratifing to meet with so many of the victems family members. The good lord was with us that night because everything just fell into place. Even Beau came down from Portland, Maine to be with us. If you would like to go up to the site just let me know and I will take you up. It would be quite an experience for you. Thands Wayne

The book that was written by Ron Elliott is the same one that you want - he wrote it for Wayne Dammert. If you can find the book by Blanchard - it was written by a law professor from Univ. of KY. This is the book that really explains the events from pre-fire through some of the litigation. This is the one (along with the NFPA) report that people use to write papers on Beverly Hills and to look at the positive fire code changes that were supposed to happen. The NFPA report can be downloaded from the internet. As far as the newscast - this night was the first night in our area that anyone broadcast from a scene for the news. Given the circumstances I think they did a great job. I had not scene the newscast until last week when they were posted on the internet because I was at Beverly Hills. Back then they didn't show the news footage over and over and over and over and over.

I first found the book at my local library out here in Anderson Township. I ended up purchasing it (10 years ago). Try your local library or go online, the Hamilton County Library system can have it delivered to the branch closest to your home. I was not at the Supper Club this horrific night but this tragedy gripped me like none other, locally speaking. I know of many who used to frequent the club and most mentioned how over crowded the Cabaret Room was. A doctor I worked for was in attendance that evening, attending a Bar Mitzvah in one of the small Crystall Rooms. He remained on site and helped victims. His entire party managed to get out. The victims, their families and survivors have remained in my thoughts and my heart, these past 30 years. May you all have continued healing.
Mary B.

ron elliot co wrote the book.

Im just posting a message and rememberance for Jane Bohrer I was in her 8th grade class at St. Martins I think of her everytime I hear the fire mention or glance my class picture which i somehow still have. I would love to talk to the police officer that pulled the young girl out in a pink dress I think that may have been her well this is to show her and her family someone does think of her and all the family lost that night Ill always be thinking of the pretty girl who was bright and who could of changed the world if she had wanted too God Bless and hopefully even if i was just a classmate Ill get to see that smile she was famous for Frank K

I'm trying to locate a copy of Wayne Dammert's book "Inside the Beverly Hills Supper Club Fire." I checked Amazon, as Thornhill suggested, and I found a book with that identical title, but written by someone named Ron Elliott. Who is (or was) Ron Elliott? Were there TWO books published on the fire? By the way, if anyone has not watched the archival footage on Channel 12's website, it's stunning, as you might imagine, and in another way fascinating because you can see how the news crews were trying to get a handle on an event that was turning, right before their eyes, from "just another fire" to one of America's greatest disasters. Someone earlier had posted a message about how crude the technology was, with the reporters using Walkie-Talkies. You have to wonder how they would have covered the same event (God forbid!) today.

LeAnn,
You can get the book at Amazon.com.

Schramm,
You were at the Siegel's because of the pool. Admit it! LOL I asked my sister, and she remembers you. She couldn't place your first name, but remembered you.
I did not go to the memorial service. I just couldn't bring myself to go to the site, especially with all the TV cameras.

Thornhill- My name is Rich and I lived at the end of the street down the hill (the dull part). That's why my brother and I were always up by your end because that's where everybody else was. I used to hang around at Siegel's alot. When I wrote to you the other day my computer had not let me see the Local 12 coverage from that night. I just remembered it from 30 years ago. Well, now that this subject has been on my mind so much the last few days I disabled some protection from this thing and watched them last night (Monday). Probably not a good idea for it bothered me again like it did all those years ago. But, on another note, I found some interest in the technical part of the reporting. When I graduated from high school (the year after your sister) I was working part-time in radio and going to school for broadcasting. I learned that the live equipment that 12 used was very new. They had the "edge", which stands for "Electronic Data Gathering Equipment" and it was state of the art for that time. But they still didn't have audio so that's why they were using 2-way radios, or walkie-talkies. Anyway, that event changed the way we all see "live" news nowadays. I'm getting way off the subject, sorry, it's just that this weekend has had alot of memories stirring in my head and it feels good to talk about them. Did you go to the memorial Monday? You had mentioned maybe going to the site. Feel free to get in touch. My prayers are with all who were involved.

I attend the memorial tonight as was quite touched by all the speakers. Very nice job Mr. Dammert and Mr. Brock, a fitting tribute to those who parished that night, those who survived and the firefighters and countless others who's heroic actions saved many lives.

My father (Ron Bridewell) was an Assistant Chief at the Newport Fire Department and on duty that night, one of many holiday's away from his family spending time with his "other" family. I was 12 years old at the time and as a typical 12-year-old, didn't get to rapped-up in the news and was just glad to be getting out of school for the summer. It wasn't until I saw my mother's face and "body language" that she was really worried about my father. With no school the next day and my mother's thoughts elsewhere, my older brother and a couple friends decided to walk and see what my dad did for a living. Up U.S. 27 we walked, passing many folks walking the oposite way in evening gowns and suits, not really knowing what they had gone through, they just wanted to get a way from what we were walking to. We got just about to Moock Road when the police had the road blocked so that as close as we got, we watched for a little bit then headed back home.

Mom was still "glued" to the TV, but again, I was 12, tired so I went to bed. The next morning I woke and my mother was a bit less concerned as she received a call that dad was back at the firehouse. Only later did I find out that he collapsed back at the station and was rushed to the hospital. As I come to find out, he was an "old school" "smoke eater" not using a mask (breathing appartus) in fires all the time. He was in the hospital for a few days with sever smoke inhalation and then home (to the firehouse) My last memories of that night are from my father coming home briefly while on duty to have (at least try to) dinner with his kids. He looked weak and beaten down, not the same tough, no screwing around father I knew. He would cough and choke so hard, it looked like his eyes were going to pop out until he worked up this thick black mucase. It was then that I realize what my father did that night.

My dad died August 4, 1997, four months after my second child was born and 20 years after that horrible night. He was taken to St. Stephens Cemetary on a Pumper and past Beverly Hills which seemed fitting as he didn't say much (at least to me) about that night but as I looked to the right heading south on U.S. 27, I realized what shortend his life, saved many lives and took his own life... something he truly loved... being a firefighter.

Steve

Went to the Memorial, met Wayne and spoke with a few reporters. (I think I'll be on channel 12 tonite), but the best thing I got tonite was the closure I have been searching for for 30 years. I'm o.k. now, I won't say I'm not sad when I think about it, but at least I don;t think I'll stsart blubbering like I used to. The site is so grown over, it's hard to imagine anything used to be there. The cross is barely visable from the top, overgrown with bushes and trees. The ceremony was very nice and about 200 people attended inclusing the attorney who represented the families in their law suits, the mayor, wayne and too many to remember. I left about an hour or so but many stayed to finish listening to the music and different speakers that were there. We were promised a memorial of some sort and I know we will get it. Something needs to be built on that property, we all need to go on with our lives. My prayers are with you all.

Edited by author 05-28-2007 12:30 PM
Does anyone know where I could get a copy of Wayne's book "Insde the Beverly Hills Supper Club Fire?" I can't find my copy and have looked into several different book stores, but they have none. Wanted to bring it tonite to the Memorial. Thought I would run into some old friends who also lost family members and ask them to sign the book. I grew up at 20th and Oakland in covington and my Friend Carol Gripshover lost a family member that night too. I went through grade school with Carol at St. Ben's, we lost touch when we went to differen high schools.

See everyone tonite. This is my first memorial and I pray this will bring me the closure I've been searching for for 30 years.

I was very good friends with a girl who was orphaned by the fire at the Beverly Hills Supper Club. The morning of the day of the fire she and I went to her house before softball and her mom made a jug of water for us. Looking back, I can't believe we were just 9. I was at my aunt's house when I heard of the fire. Upon returning to school that Tuesday, I heard that my friend Nancy had lost her grandmother, father, mother, aunt and uncle. Her older sister was injured. We really didn't get to say goodbye to her because shortly afterwards she moved with relatives. I do remember seeing her sister and seeing some bruises. I missed her after that. I would ride my bike past her house and wonder how she was holding up. Recently, I lost my dad and oldest brother to cancer twenty-eight days apart. During that time, I recalled my friend Nancy and wondered how she dealt with her life being turned upside down. If anyone knows Nancy Backus, tell her that I still remember her and think of her this time of year.

Edited by author 05-27-2007 11:41 AM
my husband and i are reading about the fire that took so many lives..our hearts and prayers go out to all of those who perished in the fire ...as well as the survivors and the families of the loved ones who perished..a numbness just fills us this day..god be with all of you..
andy..mari..marika and brownie....

Schramm- I am sorry, but the name does not ring a bell. I'll have to ask my sister if she remembers you. I am more likely to remember the house than the name. Do not feel bad, even adults didn't know what to say to us, and often still don't. Thank you for your kind words.

Thornhill- You probably don't remember me but I grew up on the same street as you. For some reason I can't remember your name, sorry, but I remember your sister very well. I was 11 years old the night of the fire and you're right about watching the Channel 12 coverage. We had 12 on that night and I remember how upsetting it was to watch. I couldn't sleep that night no matter how hard I tried. Even at 11 years of age I realized how serious this tragedy was when a young Howard Ain doing the live report started crying on the air. It really bothered him having to report it. I never knew what to say to you or your sister afterwards when I would see you outside playing because I was young. I don't try to think about this disaster, but every year at this time it comes to mind. This year I Googled it and I found this board. I was very surprised to see your name on this post and I admire your courage. My uncle knew your dad, they were pipefitters. My prayers are with you and your loved ones. Stay strong.

Does anyone know of an online site that would have photos or a lay out of where the parts of the BHSC were located in reference to the site as it is now? Or any type of photos at all?

To Bob Schulenberg who posted in December. You shouldn't feel like a failure. Continuing to be a firefighter for 45+ years is the stuff of heroes and you are obviously one.

Many prayers out to all affected byt this horrible tragedy. I find when dealing with the loss of my own parents in a one car accident four nights after my first child was born and two weeks prior to my sister dying from cancer at age 34, remember all the good times, remember them well. Share these memories with your children.

It would be nice to see the place fixed up with a nice garden and memorial. To see the photos and videos of the place just being overgrown with weeds and scraps of stuff does not seem right. I would think this would help with closure. To see it today is a poor reminder of what happened.

God Bless everyone.

I am still saddened by this tragic event and will never forget it. My next door neighbor (Tammy Kincer, age 18) in Lebanon Ohio was one of the 165 who lives were lost that night. I was not home that weekend; my family and I were out of town and we saw it on television. When we got home, another neighbor came to tell us what had happened. We had not seen any names, so it was a very sad time for us. I will pray for the families and friends of those lost at Beverly Hills, and especially for the Kincer family this weekend.

I have noticed a lot of people on this thread interested in information about the fire and that night. Channel 12's website has a media center that has video of the news reports from that night, and videos of the documentary done in 1992. It is at www.local12.com/mediacenter under the Sunday Extra section. Be forewarned, it is very tough to watch and listen too.

LeAnn - You may have been blubbering, but the last thing you were was an idiot. I hope Monday brings you the peace you are looking for. I wish that for everyone associated with this tragedy. I'll see you all Monday.

Thornhill, I too am having a difficult time with closure. Amanda from the Campbell Couonty Recorder spoke with me, over the phone, about my Grandparents and I blubbered like an idiot. She is doing an Anniversary article about the club and the victims families. Just thinking about it hurt, talking about it is worst. I plan on being at the Memorial on Monday, hoping this will bring closure to a time in my life I've never been able to let go of. Hope to see you there, and God bless you.

Edited by author 05-22-2007 08:16 PM
anyone that would like to walk the site just e-mail me at onemoment2105@netscape.net //be advised to dress properly the grounds are all over-grown. // David Brock. We have never had this memorial on the site of the Beverly Hills Supper Club and hope this will add some closer to all the families and friends that were involved that tragic night. The site is again For Sale for the 5th time and this will probably be the last time we have this opportunity to have this at the location. Wayne Dammert and David Brock would like to thank everyone for all their help with this memorial.

I was 5 years old when this fire turned my life upside down. I lost my dad, three aunts, and and unborn cousin that night in 1977. My mother was severely injured in the fire. She fought and suffered for nine months before dying from her injuries. 165 is a number I will always remember, because my mother was #165.

For the past 25 years, I always think about going up to see the site when the anniversary comes around, but I have yet to be able to face it. I think what some people have trouble with is understanding how strong and raw the emotions still are even after 30 years. I don't know if others feel this, but it is almost like there has never really been closure. To those of you that like me lost someone or if you yourself were in the fire, my prayers are with us all.

Edited by author 05-22-2007 02:26 PM
I grew up in the Cincinnati and Hamilton, OH areas. Some friends of my folks and I, Jim and Theresa McBride, had been at the Beverly Hills Supper Club for a teachers retirement dinner party and some of their friends from their group were among the casualties. My folks had been at a function that same night at the Cincy Convention Center and upon heading home they related to my sister and I later at the house, how they could see the flames shooting several feet into the sky from across the river.

Amanda, look elsewhere on this bulletin board for directions; some good directions were written early on here, check the first page. The site is east of I-471, and south of state route 27, tucked into the corner made by the two routes. If you have Google Earth do a search, I and others have posted the location there, including an impressive overlay of an aerial photo taken of the burned-out club the following day, lined up correctly with the driveway and other landmarks. That will show you in great detail where exactly the club is. Do you have any links to the club or fire, or survivors? You can find my e-mail address elsewhere on this bulletin board if you'd like to contact me directly. THX!

Where was the Beverly Hills Supper Club located, ie address? And how would one get there? I am very interested and would like to walk around the site.

I wrote the book 'Inside The Beverly Hills Supper Clu Fire'. I worked at the club from June 1957 until early 1961 as a card dealer and I also went on stage each night after the show and called Bingo. I later worked there from early 1972 until the night of the fire. I was a Banquet Captain. I nearly died in the fire after being traped on the 2nd floor but I was fortunate in being able to lead about 100 people to safety. I did many things that night, things that I had to do. Among them was praying over some 40 to 50 bodies as they lay in the grass of the garden while the club was blazing before me. The good Lord was with me. I spoke with Bruce Rath yesterday. He did a great job as a firefighter in the fire. At 6:00 P M on May 28 we will have a memorial service at the bottom of the hill. Among other things there should be many fire trucks there. We are not allowed to go up to the site that night as we could not get permission from the owners. I have however been up there many times and I have recently erected a 25 foot high cross high above I-471. There are still many pieces left from the club. Yesterday Dave Brock and I found 2 ladies shoes. We hope to see you on May 28. If you need to get in touch with me my e=mail is johnwaynebetty@aol.com.

Edited by author 05-14-2007 10:58 PM
I worked as an employee at the (Beverly Hills Supper Club)for 5 years, I was there the night of the fire, on May 28th at 6:00pm at the site a Memorial service will be held, at 7:30pm all Fire Departments from the area will be holding a Ceremony at the bottom of the hill at the medical center parking lot. onemoment2105@netscape.net

Edited by author 05-09-2007 03:36 PM
Greetings. I'm a writer for the Courier-Journal in Louisville, Ky. I'm hoping to talk to folks whose lives were impacted by the Supper Club fire for an anniversary story. It looks like many of you have interesting connections. If you're willing to talk with me, can you contact me via email or phone or post them? Thank you very much!

Chris Kenning
ckenning@courier-journal.com
502-582-4697

For those interested - I found out that the KY state fire school in June 2007 (lexington, KY) will have a memorial service for beverly hills. That is the only one that I can find so far.

Jeff,

It's nice that you were in town and visited the site - if you do this again - call me and I will go with you and show you were everything once stood.

here is the link to cincinnati magazine
http://www.cincinnatimagazine.com/ME2/Default.asp

My name is Jeff Cash I serve as the fire chief for the City of Cherryville, NC fire department. I did a research paper for one of my college classes on the BHSC fire in 1987 . This weekend, May 5th, I was in the Richmond, KY assisting with a class at EKU. On Saturday, we drove to Cincinnati for dinner and a Reds game. We took the time to visit the site. I simply had to go to the site...may the folks who lost their lives that night rest in peace. Thanks to all of the emergency service personnel who worked the fire! May we never forget!!!

JC

I read the article in the Cincinnati Magazine last nite and sat there and sobbed. It's been 30 years, I was 14 when my grandparents were killed and it still hurts. I'm thinking about going up to the site on the 28th to try and find closure, but not sure if after 40 years it hasn't come it may never come. The talk of a Memorial stone listing all 165 names was brought up, but nothing ever came from it. Funding issues maybe or legal red tape either way I'm coming into some money very soon and will talk with my attorney about who I need to contact to get this done. I need closure, my family needs closure as wll as thousands of other. Maybe this is one way to get it.

Hey Kay, can you reply via e-mail: F4Phan2@adelphia.net. Love to talk more about the fire off this board. Thanx!

Bruce Rath's son is a firefighter with Southgate fire dept. You can probably contact him there. It's strange to think that someone from so far away thinks about this fire. I was 19 years old and I had been an EMT Basic for one year when Beverly Hills burned. I started as a volunteer when i was 16 so I had 3 years of fire/EMS service already. Locally we had many changes post fire - from fire (life safety) codes to disaster managment. I am currently working on my Masters in Emergency Management and did a "hazard tree" on BH. I guess you have read the few books that have been written on it? I have not heard of any services yet, however if you check for the May edition of cincinnati magazine they are supposed to have a several page article with pictures.

I am a professional firefighter from Portland, Maine, and I am going to be in the Ohio/Northern Kentucky area the weekend of the thirtieth anniversary of the fire. I also am wondering about local observances during my stay. I have studied the fire for years now, and written several papers on it, and read everything I can get my hands on. My thoughts are with all of you who lost a family member or acquaintance that terrible night. For those who have posted here, I hope it has helped in your recovery from a night that was thirty years ago, but probably seems like last night for you. I hope this note finds you well. I am hoping to be up on "The Hill" on Saturday, 26 May. Something inside of me is making me need to be there, and I'm betting I won't be alone... My best to all of you.
- Beau Gros
P. S. Can anyone help me get in touch with retired Ft. Thomas firefighter Bruce Rath? Reply here and we can figure out how to make contact off this post site. Thank you.

Edited by author 04-03-2007 02:28 PM
Hello Everyone. I am writing a paper on the Beverly Hills Supper Club fire. My parents were supposed to be there that night. They couldn't find a babysitter for me and my brother so they didn't purchase tickets. I am very lucky to still have them and I am so sorry for all those that perished. It breaks my heart. Thanks to all who posted here. Does anyone know if there is going to be a Memorial for those who died since it is the 30th anniversary? I would like to atttend if there is going to be one.

I lost my aunt Ginny and my cousins lost their mother that night. She was my mom's only sister and best friend. I can't help but wonder how my life and my cousins lives would have turned out had she survived. I was only 5 going on 6 but I remember it very vividly. There are so many things I will ever get to do with her and I know my mom misses her terribly. Someday I'll get enough nerve to visit the site, but not now.

Thanks to all of you, I did not know that this existed until today, I have been drudging up old memories and photos due to this May being 30 years that I lost both of my parents and five other people who were dear to me, but it feels like yesterday....I dont talk much of this day but this year I am going to be 40 and I need to start letting go, I know that sounds funny after all of this time but that day changed the rest of my life, I know have two beautiful sons that they never got to see and my brother who was 5 at the time has four, two of which are twins, I was 9 at the time, there are going to be lots of follow up stories in the next couple of months so this time of year is hard for me. I wish so bad that there was a place of serenity to go on the hill to just hang out and sit I have always felt a little bit of non closure due to them leaving me on that hill and I cant go there and sit. I am going to go there this May though and walk it or try to anyway from the messages it is pretty grown up and I think that is a shame. Somebody should have done something, I know we tried 10 years ago and noone would help. I would love to talk to anyone that survived.
Thanks
Marci

May 28th 1977 is a day that I as a young child will never forget. Being only about 10 years old at the time, the memories are as real now as they were that tragic night. We were home when we heard on the radio that a fire had hit the Beverly Hills Supper Club, I remember my brother Mike leaving to drive over to see the fire. When a little while later on the very same night, I remember hearing that a fire had hit Duro bag warehouse in Ludlow. We could see the entire West Covington skyline bright orange from the fire. I remember my grandma calling that very night in 1977 saying she could see both Beverly Hills and Ludlow fires from her house. The next morning the roof tops and yards were showered with charred paper that had traveled a few miles to Covington. Duro bag in Ludlow was a 6 alarm fire, with Beverly Hills taking the rest of the fire trucks that night. If anyone has memories of the both fires please post them. It brings back vivid memories of that night in 1977.

I was using Google Earth yesterday to make sure of some directions to an appt for this morning. I noticed indicators that people had put over a certain spot along the I-471 roadway so I checked them out. It was the location of the Beverly Hills Supper Club fire and all of a sudden the memories came back. I went to high school with Kim whose family owned the BHSC. She was always beautiful and gently quiet. She was never showy and such a class act during those years at school. I was camping that holiday weekend and I remember listening to the radio with family and friends when the fire happened. When we returned to school, Kim wasn't there for the short remainder of that school year. I remember thinking how tragic it was; here Kim's family owned the supper club that the friends and family of her classmates were killed in. It was a small school and everyone knew each other well and the fire effected so many people. Kim returned to school the following year and graduated with us. I'm sure it stayed with her but she wasn't treated any differently. Like I said, she handled herself with class, even in the face of something so difficult.

I came a few hours from potentially losing my parents Bonnie and Craig Brown in this fire. Luckily for them and me, they couldn't find a baby-sitter ( I was 6).

My dad had some nice stories though about the place. He and his friends would gamble in the casino as their table were among the few "honest tables" in the area. He also saw Bobby Darin there.

On Feb 1st 2007 I will have been a Northern Ky firefighter for 45 years. I will always remember the night that time stood still. I always and still do go to the Indianapolis 500. Saturday May 28th was a very warm and sunny May Saturday. As always I was filled with anticipation for the next days Indy 500 hoping my driver A.J. Foyt would win his 4th 500. A little after 9:00 word came out the the Beverly Hill Supper Club was on fire. The club was in Campbell County and I was in Kenton County. I responded to our Station #1 and we listened as more and more fire departments were being called to the fire. Then our fire tones dropped to respond to the fire. Upon arrival I was directed to go in for search and rescue. As described in many news articles the smoke was intensely black and thick. Finally I stumbled over a body. I remember make trip after trip in and out of the Caberet room taking victims out, never to know if they lived or died. Finally while I was inside the loud long blasts of the fire truck air horns signaled us to evacuate the building. I suddenly realized I had gotten turned around and was lost. Well, I told the Lord that if he took me now I would not be happy because I would miss the Indy 500. After gathering my thoughts and slowing my breathing as shallow as I could to conserve air I saw light ahead of me. Flowwing the light I escaped thru an opening that had been cut into the wall of the room. I will never forget that night as long as I live. In my entire career that is the most disappointing night of my career. I wanted to do more, I wanted to save lives, I wanted families to still have their loved ones. My heart was present at every funeral. My heart is still with all those who lost their lives and who were injured. My heart is still with all their families who lost so much. Yes, the night of May 28th 1977 goes down as the night I was a total failure. And I will live with that forever.

Edited by author 06-04-2006 04:00 PM
I went up to the site today. You can walk up a driveway behind the new medical building. In fact the parking lot of the medical building has parking right up to the old driveway entrance. The walk up the entrance drive is pretty easy. After that, the site has become well overgrown. At this time of year (June 4), most of the growth is about chest high in the areas that used to be parking lots. These areas are easy to make your way through because the growth is mild weed type plants. Oddly enough there were daisies in bloom scattered throughout the weeds. I walked alot of the front area. It was difficult trying to find a landmark or to realize where the buildings used to be. there is alot of heavier growth were the buildings once stood. Not until I got home from this trip could I really figure out on Google Earth, where they were. Knowing what I know now, I would probably go back to find the right places. I'd like to find the place where the Cabara Room was and the circle garden near the chapel. I would suggest maybe going in March. That way the weeds are gone and you should be able to make your way around easier.

I took an old pic and overlayed it on Google Earth. The link is below. It's not the best but it should help you see what it used to look like and where it was located. There are also some pics I took of things I found.

I also created the building in 3-D and placed it on Google Earth. I hope it's in the right place.


http://bbs.keyhole.com/ubb/showthreaded.ph...umber/435310/page/0

tm 6-4-2006

     Thanks Larry for posting this. A sad story indeed.

     By the way, when are you going to write a book? You are a repository of so many anecdotes and historical events, it should not be hard for you...

My dad was a Southgate firefighter during the Beverly Hills fire. I remember him painting our house that evening when the alarm went off. He left in a hurry, fully expecting another false alarm as there were always calls to the club. As the night went on, I remember the wives of the firemen in town going door to door collecting blankets, water, anything else that may be needed by the victims or rescue workers. We could see the smoke rising from the hill from our backyard, and as kids we knew it was bad. Alot of us kids grew up together at the firehouse and stuck together as our dads were on the hill that night. Going from one house to another, watching news...and waiting. I remember it being hard to sleep that night not knowing when dad would come home. I think he finally came home sometime the next morning for a shower...but was gone for days...searching what was left of that building. He had nightmares for years...and although he will finally talk of certain aspects...usually technical...he never has let us know most of what he saw that night. He thinks of it every year, and as he recalls certain memories you can see the sadness in his eyes...you can almost see a glimpse of the person...the people...he left up on the hill that night in 1977.

Edited by author 05-27-2006 05:08 PM
It's been 29 years and it seems like yesterday. Mt grandparents went to the Supper Club to see my granmother's favorite entertainer, John Davidson. They were going with friends to celebrate my grandmothers retirement and my grandfather approaching retirement (he was due to retire that following Monday). We lived at the corner of 19th and Oakland avenue in Covington and could see the smoke from atop the flood wall in the distance. When we heard what had happened, on the T.V, my mother immediately starting calling to try and locate Maw Maw and Paw. Hoping they had stopped off for a drink, with their friends, before going to the club. I fell asleep around midnight and woke the next morning to my mom on the phone with the local hospitals trying to locate Maw and Paw. No one had heard from them as of yet.

I knew they were dead, but I still was making secret bargins with God for it not to be true. 3 days had passed and still no word. Mom and Dad went to the Ft. Thomas Armory daily trying to identify them, but they returned home with no end to the nightmare. On the 4th day, she found Maw Maw. She said she looked at peace. Alittle swollen in the face and her hair was a little burnt around the edges, but she looked peaceful. The gentlemen they found with her could only be identified by dental records. It took a few days to confirm but Paw Paw was found with her. They never let Mom see Paw, they said it was best. They were fund in the Cabaret Room. All she was given were his and Maw's personal affects. It took years after the tragedy, but I finially found the courage to open the yellow manila envelope containing Paw's personal belongings and immediately broke into tears. The coins in his pocket, the rings on his fingers, the watch he was wearing were charred through. I can only imaging the condition he was found in.

To this day I still cry on Memorial weekend. I miss my grandparents so much. They missed so much. They missed seeing their grandson being born. They missed the births and growings up of their 5 geat grand children (and 1 name sake)and their 1 grea-great grand daughter. Our children missed out also. They did not get to know their great grandparents, though they were told all about them and what wonderful peope they were. My grandmother was my best friend when I was very little, but as I grew up I found kids more my own age to replace her as my best friend and I saw less and less of her. The night before she died, I was suppose to go over to her house and spent the evening with her but I was 14 (A freshamn in High School) and my friends seemed like a more interesting time on a Friday night than my Maw Maw, so I promised to spend Saturday afternoon with her, but the next day it was unusually warm so instead I went to the pool with my sister and Aunt. When we stopped by to pick up my Aunt, Maw came out of the house with her hair freshly styled and her nails done. I remember asking Maw why she was so "styled up?" She said she was going that night to see John Davidson and asked if I was coming in. I told her no, I'm going swimming but I promise I would go to church with you tomarrow morning. Tomarrow never came (for her)and I haven't been to church that much since then. I was mad at God for a long time and i rarely spoke to him. The one, heart wrenching favor (to end all favors) I asked of him and he let me down.

Life goes on, but memories live forever in our minds. I am thankful for the time I had with them and will tell them how much I miss them and love them when I go to their grave site tomarrow to place flowers on their head stone.

Thanks for listening and my thoughts and prayers are with everyone who was touched by this preventable tragedy.

Hi Shayla & James
thanks for the directions.

Nothing has been built on the site of the Beverly Hills Supper Club, but the site is quite easy to find (see below for Shayla's directions). Apparently there are still pieces of some of the stone statues that were placed outside the facility for decoration. I watched it burn down that night in 1977. I helped with moving some of the corpses at the Ft. Thomas Armory into a large refrigerated Kroger's truck. For months, when you passed the supper club site you would be able to smell the stink of the charred remains. It took them about a year to knock the whole thing down - I'm not sure why it took that long. I'll never forget hearing about it, driving back from a day at King's Island amusement park. We had the radio on and they mentioned a fire at the Beverly Hills. We all thought "no big deal." They were always having fires there, it seems, but when we heard that at least 90 bodies had been recovered we high-tailed it over to Highland Avenue in Ft. Thomas to watch it burn from the hill side. The Enquirer had a gruesome picture on the front page next day. The whole event was a nightmare for me that I will never forget. Two good friends of my sister perished. I had plans on getting a job there as a busboy, since I heard they were hiring. I'm glad that never materialized. I just can't imagine the terror and pandemonium in the Cabaret Room that night...

Edited by author 03-21-2006 03:28 PM
To Terry:

Recently I have begun to research this heartbreaking tragedy. Based on various clues in the readings, testimony from relatives,and
a half an hour of driving and searching I found the spot:

Coming from Cincinnati, I took I-471 South and got off at the Ft. Thomas, Southgate exit.

At the intersection, make a left. You'll be in Southgate on Alexandria Pike.

Immediatly on the right hand side, there is a fairly new medical building. This building is sitting at the foot of the Beverly Hills Supper Club property.

You'll notice that the building sits at the bottom of a hill of trees. On the left of the medical building is the long narrow driveway that leads up the hill to the site. However, there is a small gate closing of the driveway. I didn't see if the gate was locked though. I'm guessing that
 nothing has been built up there yet.

I plan to walk up the hill (if I cannot drive up) and place flowers and 2 stuffed animals(for the unborn babies that died) on the site. I was also an unborn fetus at the time of this tragedy, but the family of all those victims, all the surviors, and the rescure workers will always be in my prayers.

At the time of this fire I was a volunteer firefighter in New Jersey, having taken a couple of years off from school. One of my good friends from college had continued straight on to his degree and then gotten a job as a Fifth Grade science teacher. The fire was of historical interest because of being a firefighter, and I was definitely not expecting the call I got two weeks after the fire from a college room mate telling me that Russel Gray, our friend, had been killed in the fire. He was at a retirement party for another teacher in the school system. The identification had been delayed in part because his girl friend/fiance (and I am ashamed to say I don't remember her name) had been killed with him. It wasn't until his mother realized a week or so later that she hadn't heard from him for a while that the alarm was raised.

Russ knew from day one that he wanted to be a teacher and I'm sure he would have been a good one.

Jonathan

Edited by author 11-12-2005 06:57 PM
I was in Cincinnati over the weekend & decided to drive to Southgate to see where the supper club was located. I wasnt sure if something had been built there or not. I never really found it. I drove along US 27 several times. Back & forth thinking I might see some type of monumuent or marker. I went past the Evergreen cemetary. The exit that I took off of 471 was Ft Thomas/Southgate. Was I in the vicinity of the supper club? Which side of I-471 was it located? Maybe you could tell me some of the businesses that surround it now.

My parents were there that night, after the fire, helping victims.

Edited by author 09-07-2004 01:47 AM
To those of you who find this topic on its own, it's a followup on the original posting on my weblog -- http://potifos.com/polygon/ ("Grim Anniversary" under May 28, 2004.)

My wife grew up in Erlanger and attended many events at the Beverly Hills Supper Club.

I'm not positive, but at the time of my last visit to the area, it looked like something had finally been built there.

Orville Coulter was my grandfather. He was a member of the "Tri-State Roadrunners" He took me with him on a trip to the UK. I am told that my mannerisms and expresions are just like him. I was 15 when he died at the Beverly Hills fire. He was so anxious for me to get my drivers license so we could go back to Maryland where he had been so long, and visit friends. His Wife Lucylle died in '74. These were my grandparents and my friends. My life.
I was a paperboy in 1977 and was delivering the Columbus Dispatch to Mrs. Phillips when she met me at the door. Strange to see her at 6am on a Sunday. My mother had gotten a call from Millie Fowler (her husband was killed too) and called some of the people on my routelooking for me. Mrs. P told me at the door "you need to get home". My father was driving me around because he is a good father and 200 Columbus Dispatches take a car to deliver. I had no idea that Grandad was there but my father knew. We finished the route and went home.
To this day I will think of memorial day as the day my grandad died. I am not sad anymore though. I have him in me, I have the Roadrunners in me. I have memories that I can share with my family and friends that will pass beyond me to future generations. SO My grandad is still here and will always be with us. And this forum allows his legacy to be carried forward. I thank you for the opportunity and wish you all peace and contentment. Remember Orville Coulter and remember the lives of all those we lost and cherished so much. They are alive in us always.

My sister and her husband were supposed to go to the show that night. I had just recently had a baby and could not get out to go there, but I remember calling her house and getting no answer. The horror that those people went through was unreal and thank God my sisters son got sick so she was at the hospital......safe. I felt relieved , but sick at the same time that all of these people from everywhere were gone. Thanks to the brave fire fighters that gave there all to do what they could. I will never forget the brave people that died that night, you will be missed.

The Fryman family was devastated. The daughter was in my home room at Harrison County High School. We had already lost a young man from our home room in December 1976. He died when the car he was riding in was struck by a train one week before Christmas. This event really hit hard. Our homeroom teacher called Tracey's name during roll call the first day back from the holiday. She just stopped and looked at all of us. I will never forget when she said "I am so, so sorry. I just am ..... She then ran from the room crying. R.I.P.

It looks like the poor Bohrer and Fryman families were completely wiped out in this fire, not to mention countless parents...What a haunting tragedy.