Let’s Bump it up!

Published 2:08 pm Friday, November 20, 2020

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Could that say what I thought it did?

I was behind a car on Market Street. When we came to a stop at the intersection of Market and Fifth, my question was answered. The magnetic little sign on the rear of the car read: “Let’s Bump it Up!”
Should I get out, run up to the car, and attempt to talk with the driver? No. Not enough time. Besides, the driver might think me of questionable intent. Such are the times.

So, the light changed and I followed her – a lady, it appeared from where I sat – and she and I continued south on Market. She kept straight, then turned right onto 3rd Street. I’m still following. If she has noticed, please don’t let her think I’m a stalker.
When she came to the corner of Respass Street at right angle to the Parkway, she turned right. That was in violation of the posted sign. So what did I do? I turned right too.

Fortunately, she turned into the parking area behind Sloan Insurance. As did I.
Just as I got out of the car, two large men walked up, obviously going to the vehicle I was stopped just behind. I mean, two big dudes. The driver was getting out.

I realized how this looked, so you can believe I did some fast talking as to why I had followed her.

I asked if she knew about the sign on her vehicle. She told me it was her sister’s car, and she didn’t know what “Let’s Bump it Up!” meant.

I then explained to her that I had known Bump, now deceased. We had sung together in the New Bern barbershop chorus, and that he was one of the nicest men I have ever known.

A World War II veteran, Bump served as postmaster in Farmville many years, and during that time had quietly helped people in need in different ways. The driver’s sister lived in Farmville.

One grateful recipient of Bump’s generosity, helped with financial obligations associated with going to college, was so appreciative that he encouraged others to do the same for worthy young people. To “Bump it Up!”

Harold Bumpas Humphries was given the middle name “Bumpas” after a Methodist minister his mother had known and admired. Hence the “Bump.”

Bump was a sweet man, a kind man, a good man. A part of the “Greatest Generation.” I was blessed to know him, and to call him my friend.

So, whenever you see a real need, feel moved to do something, then consider Bumping it Up!