I have stark memories of that day that have remained with me through the years. In my mind's eye, they are still crystal clear: Though I am only in the second grade, I am shocked and dismayed hearing the news from our teacher, and am seated in a classroom much like those at OLA. I can imagine how frightened those children must be at that moment. Though four miles from the scene, as I peer to the south out the classroom window on that bright, brittle afternoon, I can hear the sirens in the distance, can see and smell smoke and drifting ashes from the fire. At that moment, I know this day is one I will never forget, and that December 1, 1958 is a date that will always remind me of OLA and the tragic events that took place there.
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