Enclosed is a picture I wanted the people of the Babylon community to see. It is a picture of my father, Darrel B. Ford, and my son, Shane Ford Fink. Grandpa and grandson are sitting on the steps of the Conklin House on Thursday morning, July 4th, 2002. They were observing a commemoration of Independence Day. Unfortunately they were alone, with the exception of myself and Margaret Lonergan Mearer, who designed and had the items donated for the beautiful and colorful new herb garden on the Conklin House lawn. She was visiting her lovely creation.

We should have enjoyed a parade. We should have enjoyed a historical, educational pageant. We should have been among our neighbors, political leaders and friends. On the first Independence Day following September 11th, I am sure that I am not the only one who felt that something was desperately missing.

Missing the traditional pageant was sad enough. Learning a bit more about our village history through the careful research and writing done by my father and Bob Pasch was always fun and interesting. Watching the youth of the village come together to celebrate our history and great country was always heartwarming but it would and should have had particular poignance this year.

I am sorry that my son missed the event. But he is the lucky child. He has Darrel Ford for a grandpa. He can and will enjoy the knowledge and love of a special man. Unfortunately, the rest of the children of Babylon Village are missing out.

Allison J. Ford, Mansfield, MA