November 1963, by guest author John Heinen

November 1963. I was a freshman at American River Junior College, now called ARC. Walking across the quad, I saw people rushing more than usual. I entered the cafeteria.No one was talking, except Walter Cronkite, broadcast through the loudspeakers.When he announced Pres. Kennedy's death, a loud pained sigh from all of us echoed in the room. There followed a numb shock, and frustration over how to express our grief. Driving home, I saw one vivid example. The Regal gas station at the corner of Marconi and Fulton had a big sign, similar to a theater marquee, that normally advertised the price of tires, oil, gas (29 cents back then). They had draped the top and sides with black plastic sheeting, usually used as drop cloths. The sign was blank; except for three letters in the center: J F K. It was a simple, clear, eloquent expression. Not a happy Arden Arcade memory, but one I'll never forget.