Clem Arrives From California

Clem Arrives From California
By John R. Greenwood

Walter "Clem" Clements 

It was a quick flight, maybe only a few seconds long. Cyberspace is as large as it is small. A tone sounded as the email arrived via my mailbox. It was from Valerie. I met her through a local interest Facebook page. She left Saratoga Springs in 1979. As a young girl her mother and Clem were very close. After Valerie left Saratoga she remained in contact with Clem. She says she would send him letters, art work and simple gifts. She now lives in California and after learning of my search for a sign from Clem sent me a short note along with some photos. My heart picked up speed. It was Christmas in March and I was ready to tear off the bow. I read the letter twice. I wanted to prolong the excitement by dragging my feet. When your my age you savor gifts like these, because you never know when, or if, the next one will arrive. I scrolled down slowly and there he was. 

Not only was it Clem, it was Clem in all his regalia. His toolbox of paint and brushes, his trusty yardstick, and his hand painted "Clem Signs" hat atop his head. I was instantly transported back thirty years.I could hear his voice. I could feel his presence. I had indeed found a true sign and it's creator. 

I would like to thank my new friend from California. Valerie says there is much more to the story. She says she has some letters. The letters of another sign are being painted as we speak.