Bethany College - Bethanian Yearbook (Bethany, WV)

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The atmosphere of Bethany lends to itself a character all its own. Many stu- dents are drawn to Bethany, and eventu- ally these students will leave. But with them they will take an angle of Bethany which has been so much a part of their lives. Each person will always remember those special places on Main Street. ■ Along this path stands the stores and landmarks which are so particular to Bethany. As I have walked numerous times down this heavily trodden path, the re- flections of old and new have been visi- ble through the character of each of these places. The simple white brick infirmary was quite the commonplace during many of the Bethany plagues. I can still see the bright caring faces of those ladies in white as they gave the small envelopes filled with medications and cough drops to our ailing students. I remember the old red brick house — the Delta Tau Delta founder ' s house, which has represented pride and unity since founding chapter in Bethany in 1858. On various occasions this house comes to life with wine and cheese re- ceptions which set the proper mode. Securely nestled across the street are Chambers ' and Ethel ' s, the two general stores. I recall walking past the neatly stacked shelves in Chambers ' to the meat counter in the back where I bought sausage-links for those many late break- fasts. 1 retrace my steps back through the quaint country store to the cash reg- ister, where Mrs. Chambers patiently awaits my purchase. Mext door I find the simple but inviting competition to Chambers, commonly known as Ethel ' s. In Ethel ' s I have often fumbled through the various piles on the floor, looking for a specific brand of soup or soda-pop. Once my prize was located, I mosey back to the cash register where Ethel awaits, and I place my goods and money on the old freezer. On the opposite side of the street mu- sic plays; a red door opens and closes as people enter and exit. I walk toward the building. I can see cigarette smoke seep- ing through the door. The smell of cheese cubes and other cooked snacks tantalize my taste buds as my throat longs for a cool beer. There will always be memories of the enjoyable nights spent at Bubba ' s. I can walk toward the post office for my daily visit. With anticipation, I reach into my pocket for my key, open that little glass door to my box, only to find a Green Tab! Others leave the post office hoping that tomorrow they ' ll get more than just air mail. Now I retrace my steps, past Bubba ' s, Chambers ' and Ethel ' s, the Delts ' founder ' s house, and the infirmary. I stand in front of the Bethany Memorial Church, a home for the Disciples of Christ, who have supported the Bethany tradition since the college was founded. I see the stain glass windows as a prism; a rainbow of colors reflecting the chang- ing spectrum of our town throughout the years.