Issue 220

Editor: Roleta Smith Meredith

Publisher: Jalon Smith Burton

CHRISTMAS IN THE ARMY IN 1972

From: Jim Nutter (WI 1971)

It was Christmas Eve 1972, and I was station at NATO Site 111, a nuclear weapons maintenance and storage installation, located in a secluded German country side. During WWII, Munster Kaserne was a well-hidden German ammunition facility. It was not found by the allies until after the war. We lived in the original barracks and utilized some of the same work structures. There were only about 250 of us, which included a MP detachment and two infantry platoons which provide security. Part of their function was manning the four guard towers and foot patrol the munition area perimeter. They said it was mostly mind-numbing duty, watching the trees grow and giving names to all the furry forest animals. There is a face book page for those that served in the 545^th Special Weapons Ordnance Company and the 9^th MP Security Detachment. Therefore, I have been able to reconnect and share memories with some of my long-lost army buddies. I posted the following to that site, and would like to share it with you:

The picture is from Christmas 1972. Two of the guys in my barracks provided the tree for us to decorate. They didn’t say where the tree came from and we didn’t want to know. The local Germans were very protective of their forest and you can see that this is not a store-bought tree. We had exchanged names for gift giving and tried to make Christmas as normal and joyful as we could. My Aunt Hope’s famous rum balls helped to foster the festive spirit. In my 35 years and nine months with the Army, this was the only Christmas that I had spent away from home. Most of my service was civilian with the Army Corps of Engineers.

During this time of the year, I think of those who had guard duty that Christmas Eve night, alone and cold in the old wooden towers or trudging through the moonlit snow, while the rest of us were back in the barracks, warm and comfortably numb. I sincerely salute them for being there; and to all service men and women that are away from their love ones and performing their duty to keep us safe, especially during Christmas. It has been my Christmas Eve night tradition to raise my glass in remembrance and honor to my military brothers and sisters. I will pray, “Lord, hold our troops in your loving hands. Protect them as they protect us. Bless them and their families for the selfless acts they perform for us.

“Merry Christmas!”

MEMORIES OF CHRISTMAS SHOPPING

ON MAIN STREET IN CLARKSBURG

From: Tina Bohlman Romanus originally from North View. (Victory High School 1964)

“Choose the least important day in your life. It will be important enough.”

 - Thornton Wilder, Our Town

I remember shopping on Main Street the week before Christmas at one of the five and dime stores. I believe it was Murphy’s. I loved the wood floors and I seemed to know even as a child, that they were ephemeral and would be replaced one day. I made sure to stomp my feet rid of snow before I entered the store. I could hear Gene Autry singing “Frosty the Snowman” as I headed down to the bottom level pet section to look for the lovely pastel-colored parakeets. I thought, “Surely Mommy would love another bird for Christmas.” They were always flying away and I was continually replacing them; funny that. I stopped by a counter with dolls on display and there it was; the most beautiful doll I’d ever seen. It was a ballerina with long pink hair. She was perpetually on-pointe in her pink toe shoes and was dressed in pink tights and pink tulle tutu. I made a mental note to write to Santa when I got home and tell him about her. I can’t ever remember wanting anything so much for Christmas in my entire life.

The smell of the lunch counter was tugging on my coat sleeve. I climbed onto one of the stools and ordered a ham salad sandwich and a cherry chocolate coke. I remembered to say, “Please, may I have.” I felt euphoric. Ham salad! There was nothing so delicious in the world. I’ve traveled all over the world since then and nothing ever tasted as good to me as that sandwich on that day. It was one day, one ordinary day in my life that I’ll always remember; shopping at Christmas time on Main Street. By the way, Santa Claus brought the ballerina doll and laid her under our matching pink flocked Christmas tree on Christmas Eve.

SOME SHOPPING INCIDENCES IN CLARKSBURG

1948-1956

From: Barbara Younkin Park (Chestnut Hills Elementary School 1950-56)(Would have been WI 1962, graduated from Easton High School,Easton, Maryland 1962)

Part of the fun growing up in Clarksburg was shopping.  I had two incidences of trauma, however. First, while sitting in a shopping cart (4 years old?) at Kroger on Main Street, I leaned out and grabbed a handful of pennies from the cashier’s drawer next to me. I was made to put them back, told I was stealing and that the police would get me if I did that again. After that traumatized me, when I was about 5, our family was window shopping and left me at the inner windows of a store. They went on to the next store, and since I could not see them, I panicked and cried. After what seemed like an eternity, they came back for me, but this was not a good feeling for a child.  Nevertheless, there were a lot of good times shopping.

One was when I think I was about 7, and at one of the 5 and 10’s on Main Street, I saw a display of small dolls and begged my mother to buy me one.  I wanted a brunette, about 5 inches tall and dressed as a ballerina in a shiny bright red tutu. Although it cost only a dollar, my mother told me I could not have it. It was so beautiful, so I begged and begged and she finally relented! This type of doll was a “Nancy Ann Storybook Doll” which was made for collecting and not for playing with. Although I asked, I was not taken into that store again, and never was able to buy another Nancy Ann doll. But this is not the end of the story.

The advent of eBay has enabled people to find nostalgic treasures instantly, that in the past, would have taken years of trekking through antique shops to find. You guessed it…due to eBay, I have made a hobby of collecting Nancy Ann Storybook Dolls, keeping some on shelves in my home, but giving most away to my granddaughters. I’ve purchased several hundred Nancy Ann’s, some hard plastic as in the 50’s and also of bisque made in the 1940’s. I researched the history of the company and of the talented owner, entrepreneur Nancy Ann Adams, and created a PowerPoint presentation to tell her story. I show that in 1936, a woman making dolls clothes at night in her apartment was able to build an empire selling millions of top quality dolls up until she died in 1963. In conclusion, a childhood shopping experience in Clarksburg led to my buying the dolls on eBay that I felt I had been denied all those years, and has given me and others lots of joy.

My original Clarksburg doll is on the left and the like-new doll from E-bay, is on the right, complete with her original hair ribbon and gold name tag.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Do you have a story about your dolls? Or a story about shopping in Clarksburg? 

Won’t you please write and tell us about it?

Write to Roleta1@aol.com

When emailing me, please include your name, school and year you did or would have graduated.

Thank you.

SHOPPING IN DOWNTOWN CLARKSBURG IN THE 1950s

From: Janet (Jan) Bee (WI 1966)

As an adolescent of 11 or 12 years old, I used to take the city bus out of Wolf Summit, where my family and I lived "round the holler”, to spend the day shopping in downtown Clarksburg. The world was safe enough, in those days, when children could be gone all day playing or visiting or shopping and the parents never worried. I would get all dressed up in a nice blouse and skirt with my starched pink crinolines, of course, sheer hoes and shiny black patent leather shoes. I would ride the bus the seven miles to Clarksburg and disembark at the Oak Hall Cafeteria (not sure if it was the cafeteria at that time, but you know where I mean) on Main Street. For hours I would wander the two or three blocks that made up the main part of downtown. Hagan's Ice Cream, the Workingman's store, Rex Heck newsstand, and on to Aaron's shoes. I would usually stop at the courthouse plaza to sit a little and take in the sights of the people sitting and standing and talking and smoking on the walls surrounding the plaza. Sometimes if I wandered up the alley beside the courthouse, men in the jail’s open barred windows would yell down to me and embarrass me to death. My sister told me one of them was my uncle Fred once! It seemed to me to be the hub of the whole town.

Then, if I needed some school supplies, I would meander down the street a little way to James and Law, where it always smelled like rubber cement, freshly sharpened pencils and school paste that often found its way into a kid’s mouth. Then jaywalk across the street to Parsons Souders, which was my mom’s go-to clothing store for a peek at the latest fashions, then on to O. J Morrison’s for more clothes, if memory serves me correctly. After this, back up Main Street to my favorite block, the one with that gorgeous red brick bank building on the corner of Main and Third, Lerner’s, Murphy’s and McCrory’s, two competing “dime stores” that held court in the middle of the block, side-by-side. You couldn’t go into one without visiting the other because of the scents of popcorn, candied apples, cinnamon and delicious home-cooked food wafting out the open doors. I remember going there and enjoying baked steak sandwiches with mashed potatoes and gravy at the lunch counter with my dad many times. We would always have a hot fudge sundae afterwards for the bargain price of twenty-five cents! And, when I walked around town by myself for hours, it wasn’t difficult for a hungry twelve-year old to put away that much food.

After that big meal, I would head toward Friedlander’s on the corner of Main and Fourth, window shop at a couple of dress shops along Fourth Street, then Mercer’s Drugs? Was that the name of the drugstore down Fourth street? Not sure, but that was the first place I ever had a cherry coke at the soda fountain. I thought it was the most delicious thing I had ever tasted.

I often stopped in at the public library, that stately mansion that still sits back among the trees with a long walkway up to it. Waldomore, I think it’s called, although I never heard it called that back then. It was just “the library”. Or, sometimes, if I got there early enough in the day, I might catch a movie at the Ritz or Robinson Grand for a quarter. I studiously avoided the block of Pike Street between Third and Fourth because it looked sinister to me. It seemed there were several pool halls, beer joints and maybe a honky-tonk or two and some men hanging around on the sidewalk. I called that part of Pike Street "Men's Street".

All too soon, it was time to catch the last bus back to Wolf Summit at 6:00 to return home, get off the bus at Forde’s grocery store in Wolf Summit and walk the mile back to my home around the holler, satisfied with my pleasant day.

MY FAVORITE CHRISTMAS SONGS

From: Jalon Smith Burton (born in Clarksburg WV)

            Publisher 

Here are my two all time favorite Christmas Songs… 

I truly think I could listen to them all year long!

Please click on the link, turn your speakers up and ENJOY!

Bing Crosby & David Bowie 

Peace on Earth/Little Drummer Boy 

Mark Lowry

Mary, Did You Know?

Do you have a favorite Christmas Song?

One that brings back beautiful memories of the Holiday Season?

Won’t you please write and tell us about it?

Write to Roleta1@aol.com

When emailing me, please include your name, school and year you did or would have graduated.

Thank you.

THE AGE-OLD CLARKSBURG QUESTION?

From: David Ellis (WI Class of 1960)

I have some stories about growing up in Clarksburg that I am going to send you. But first, in the last Newsletter you had an Article on hot dogs, and asked the age-old question, "slaw or no slaw." I grew up in Clarksburg in the 40's and 50's and my family was in the restaurant business for as long as I can remember. My dad and mom had a small lunch counter on Pike Street, across from Sycamore Street. My dad and uncles also ran the lunch counters at the Strand and Recreation Pool Rooms on Pike Street, and then the Ellis Drive-In Restaurant and Theater. I fondly remember the 1940's when a Sunday evening treat was often sitting around the radio with my brothers listening to the radio adventure and detective shows, and waiting for my dad to show up with a hot dog bun box, filled with, not a dozen buns, but a dozen hotdogs. They were wrapped in a thin restaurant single-sheet waxed paper, kind of greasy from some chili leaking through the paper, and smelled scrumptious.

My dad was an aficionado of hot dogs, and had very strong opinions on the "proper" hot dog assembly process. The hot dog, according to Sam Ellis, was a steamed wiener on a steamed bun, topped with mustard, chili and onions. Not only those specific toppings, and those only, but in that specific order. He took great pleasure in teaching his sons, mustard first, on the wiener. Then chili, never the onions under the chili. Last came the onions, always on top. He told us stories of strange faraway lands to the north where strange people put relish and even sauerkraut on their hot dogs. And we heard about even stranger lands where creamy cole-slaw was slathered on the dogs. We learned as children, when traveling in these strange lands, never nod when asked if we wanted a hot dog with "everything." Always ask, he would say, "what do you mean, everything?" If the waitress said "chili and slaw," or "mustard and relish," we would know we had traveled too far from Clarksburg, and it was time to return to the land of mustard, chili and onion. In that order!

EDITOR'S NOTE: That steam bun always made a huge difference. I try to get the effect by placing the cooked wiener in the bun, cover it with chili and onions (in that order) and wrap it in a paper towel and place in the microwave about 10 seconds to obtain that steamed bun feel since I don’t own a steamer. I don’t put mustard on the dog if it is for my husband as he hates mustard. But I have mine with mustard. I have to forgo most of that now as I am Gluten Free so I eat my hot dogs with no bread just all the ingredients on a plate. Unless I can find Gluten Free buns!!!!

Won’t you please write and tell us about your love for the 'dog'?

Write to Roleta1@aol.com

When emailing me, please include your name, school and year you did or would have graduated.

Thank you.

CHANGE:

Alex Sandonas Thwaites (WI 1965) athwaites1@comcast.net

Rich Gloss (WI 1965) from rgloss@sc.rr.com to rgloss4@nc.rr.com

DELETE/REMOVE:

David Hall Garrett (WI 1953) Dgarr237@aol.com

Carolyn Hornor Wilson (WI 1960) chw1712@verizon.net

Stephen Charles Forsythe (WI 1970) forsythe@suddenlink.net

NEW:

Rich Newbrough (BHS 1955) and Pat Sprout (RW 1957)

pat_richnewbrough@rogers.com

Nancy Diamond Strother (WI 1969) busymom2@bellsouth.net

Mary Beth Miller Stenger (WI 1980) mbs26385@gmail.com

Barbara Sue Dodds Michaels (WI 1953) saisusan108@gmail.com

THE DECEMBER MYSTERY PICTURE

Picture provided by Tim Cork (WI 1962)

This was a very obvious site for many years. It may have disappeared in the 60’s. Think hard---you know it! If you don’t remember the name, just tell me what you do remember. Where was it? What was it used for? Anything you can give that is correct. 

Won’t you please write and tell us what you remember about it?

Write to Roleta1@aol.com

When emailing me, please include your name, school and year you did or would have graduated.

Thank you.

S & H GREEN STAMPS

From: Ron Harvey (WI 1955)

I remember S&H Green Stamps. My mother collected them. After I was married to Anne Jones, my mother would invite Anne go shopping with her stamps when we came back to Clarksburg. Anne had no problem spending the stamps. I talked to my wife as well as Joanne Drummond Marlette (class of about WI-'57) and it seems there was a redemption store on Bridgeport Hill near where Harry Green Auto is now. Joanne also remembered one at Nutter Fort about where I think the Thoroughfare Grocery store was located. That would be near where Bagwell Avenue is.

Things we seem to remember were a plaid plastic picnic basket and a tricycle for our daughter, Rhonda. Here is the Picnic Basket which is still used in San Frisco, Cal.

From: Lynn Hornor Keith, (WI 1966)

As a child, I loved pasting Green Stamps and Top Value Stamps into books for my grandmother. When I had my first apartment, I redeemed Stamps for a set of mixing bowls which I have to this day. Thinking about them with my husband, he said that the same principle is applied to credit cards. Rewards are gained on purchases such as airline mileage, gas discounts etc. I had never made that correlation. Somehow licking and pasting stamps was more fun!

Reply from Roleta1@aol.com: 

Lynn, I never thought of it but your husband is correct.

From: Virginia "Pep" Michie Culpepper (Carlisle, Central, WI -1956-57 freshman...would have been Class of 1960) Moved to FL in '57 & graduated Ft. Lauderdale HS 1960

Your article about green stamps brought back a flood of memories. When my husband was in his last year of law school at UF in Gainesville, Fl, I was teaching and my salary was $360 a month in 1966.It covered our expenses, but there were no extras. For three years I had bought our groceries at Winn Dixie spending the allotted sum of $20 a week. Then I would come home and paste in those little stamps. The stack of booklets grew. With graduation in sight, a baby due and little money, I was thrilled to find that I had enough to "cash in" my book stash and get the finest crib the green stamp store offered, mattress and all. It lasted through three babies before I passed it on to another expectant mother.

Years later when I watched my married children purchase their "designer" cribs from Pottery Barn that would go in their color coordinated nurseries, I shared their joy. However, if I were to ask them today if they have any special memory that goes along with each crib, I would get back, A “what do you mean? " kind of look. As for explaining the process of saving green stamps, I hesitate to even go there.

As a long time reader and first time contributor, I join the chorus of those who truly appreciate all that you (and others) do to keep everyone connected to a rare and wonderful place and time.

From: John Teter (WI 1961)

I can remember our family collecting S & H Green Stamps "back in the day". IF I remember correctly, there were actually two types of stamps; one being the S & H Green Stamps; the other being TV Stamps (?). I think that S & H Green Stamps were given out when buying groceries at The Garden Fresh Markets and the TV Stamps (yellow/orange) were given out when buying groceries at Kroger's. We were able to purchase many items when redeeming the stamps, but I cannot remember any one thing in particular. It will be interesting to see if anyone remembers the second set of stamps.

FRIENDS FOR A LONGTIME

Babe Bisping Cashman (WI 1956) and husband Stu stopped at Cracker Barrel on a recent trip back to their home in Florida. They enjoyed a short visit with longtime friends Kitty and Don Sager (WI 1956). Babe and Don became friends in Central Junior High School and have remained friends for 67 years.

THE WI CLASS of 1961 BAND

Introduction by: Roleta1@aol.com

I honesty can’t remember who mentioned to me that The Class of 1961 had a band!!! I do know that I have been perusing some information about this band for about 3 months. I was not going to give up easily. Thanks to John Teter (WI 1961) for getting involved and contacting people in his class. I think this is very interesting.

The band was started by Robert Maxwell (WI 1961). He wrote the theme song named “East Bound”.

Mike King (WI 1961) wrote and furnished us with the names of the members of the band. The band included Charlie McGlumphy. Robert Maxwell, Tom Kearns, Jr. Waugh, Bob Swiger, Gary Dawson, Roger Petito, Bill May (note: Bill was not in the class of 1961 but graduated in 1963, the band needed him) and Mike King. We played at VFW, The Flamingo Club, Hartland Youth Center, etc. plus the Class of 1961 Senior Assembly.

From: Bob Swiger (WI 1961)

Are you talking about “The Electras”? Robert WAS the band. He could play any instrument and he would at any given time right in the middle of a number go around and grab someone's instrument and start playing it.

Gary Dawson and Mike King have a better memory but here's what I remember:

Robert Maxwell played electric guitar, Tom Kearns was on drums, Charlie McGlumphy played piano, Artie Aspy played sax, Bill May played guitar and Jr. Waugh played. ??, Mike "Chico " King was the lead singer and Gary Dawson and I were the " Do Wop" backup singers. I did sing some slow songs like “Gee Whiz” (look at those eyes). I never won a Grammy but Mike King was pretty good. He went on to better things, (better band).

What was our theme song? Please correct my failing memory. Where did we play? You fellows have a better memory. We practiced at McGlumphy Funeral Homes but not during services, Ha! We played WI gym to make money for the athletic Dept.

Our favorite song we played and sang was Shout by the Isley Brothers. I remember we signed up to play in the Senior Assembly and Principal Cubbon was afraid we would get out of hand and was against it. Coach Castellana was our supporter and talked him into letting us play.

BTW. Gary, Bill, Mike and I are the only ones left from that group. I miss those guys.

From: Gary Dawson (WI 1961)

The theme song was “Eastbound” which was chosen for the group because of the entrance sign on that part of the Clarksburg By-pass (expressway) when it was being built.

Other than playing songs which were familiar to the band members, we often played “Bony Maroni”, “Gee Whiz”, and “Shout. We played at the Pink Flamingo (a club) on other side of Bridgeport hill. Pink Flamingo was owned by a gentleman who ran East End Lunch. I think Sammy.

There are no pictures that I know of. We were not good, Robert Maxwell was talented, Charlie could play some chords on the piano, Robert showed him, Tom Kearns could play the drums for what we were doing. Mike could sing, we all were in A Choir, so you know we could sing, (smile) but we sure had a good time. We were not the Prodigals or the Shades and there were several good bands that played around Clarksburg but as I mentioned before, the event for the athletic department and the gig at Pink Flamingo, were our biggies. The Senior Assembly, we rocked the place. I do believe our trip to Joe Sarifini's Sportsman Inn at 6 in the morning before the assembly helped us a lot.

From: Bill May (WI 1963)

I think I was in the band because I had an electric guitar and an amp. I couldn't play well at all but Robert Maxwell showed me how to play the songs that we played. He was incredible. I remember someone turning a microphone off when Roger was singing. Roger said "I want to be heard" or something like that. I remember that Mike King was actually a pretty decent singer. Bobby Swiger wasn't bad either and Tom Kearns was a pretty decent drummer. But again, Robert Maxwell carried us. He usually was playing the piano and was great. I also remember playing at an assembly in the auditorium and Miss Nutter walked out. Had a ball hanging out with those guys back when we were famous.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Do you remember this band? Do you have a picture of them? Can you share some memories of this group? As you just read there are now only 4 members left. What other songs were popular then that they might have played? Did they play for pay at local events? Or did they just play for class events?

Won’t you please write and tell us what you remember about it?

Write to Roleta1@aol.com

When emailing me, please include your name, school and year you did or would have graduated.

Thank you.

RESPONSE to an ARTICLE 
by MIKE SNYDER

From: Jack Bowan (WI 1957)

Enjoyed so much Mike Snyder’s post. He obviously paid attention in Miss Wright’s English class, which he may have attended with Rita Drummond, I rarely must correct her grammar. Sorry about the ash trees. Diversity is not always good!

NOVEMBER MYSTERY PICTURE

From: Pam Bokey Mitchell (WI 1970)

The mystery picture is of the clubhouse at Oral Lake. My husband and I are members and he is on the board of directors. His parents were members for many years. What we love about Oral Lake is that it is like a step back in time. The Fourth of July is always spectacular with water games, land games, picnicking, and fireworks.

From: Jane Stout Galvan (WI 1959)

The mystery photo is of the oral lake clubhouse. I spent my youth at oral lake, mostly with Connie Bailey. We had lots of parties in there. Great memories!

From: Lyle Corder (RW 1957)

The picture is of the Oral Lake Club House. It is located outside of Bridgeport and if you continue up the road you will be on Beards Run. The lake in front of the club house is of course, Oral Lake. I'll bet nobody else can tell you what the lake was called at one time. It was called "Sam's Lake". I have no idea why. It appears the raised railroad track is what formed the lake. I am not sure about that, either. There used to be a grist mill just downstream from the lake. It was called the Lang-Webb Mill. My father-in-law used to have a farm on Beards Run; it is now a housing development called Auburn Woods.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Did you know it was called SAM’S LAKE? Do you know why?

From: Bill Wilson (WI 1975)

You thought you could pull a fast one over all of us with the picture of “a cute little house”? This is a picture of the Oral Lake Fishing Club, outside of Bridgeport. As kids, we spent many a summer day at “Oil” Lake and I still have a scar on my knee from where one of my brothers pushed me off the upper deck. I’ve enclosed a picture of my dad and his siblings out at Oral, taken around 1935. In the picture is my dad, Bob Wilson-WI Class of ’37, Jack Wilson-WI Class of ’41, Sally Wilson-WI Class of ’45 and Tom Wilson-WI Class of ’47. Thanks for the memory jog!

From: Stephen R. Snyder (WI 1962)

I believe the November picture is the club house at Oral Lake in Bridgeport. It's been a long time since I spent many summer afternoons there.

From: Lynn Hornor Keith (WI 1966)

The mystery picture is the Oral Lake Club House. I spent many summers there swimming out to Middle Pier, jumping off the top, picnicking, fishing, cooking out and having fun. Fourth of July was the best day. Swim races, the three-legged race, wheelbarrow race, the egg toss etc. The prizes were silver dollars. Then we had great fireworks display.

My parents enjoyed it and now my sister, Caroline Ramsey, her children and grandchildren spend their summers there. It hasn’t changed at all.

From: Mary Stump Harrell (WI 1955)

The picture for November is the clubhouse at Oral Lake. I went to my first dance there when I was in the 7^th grade--- I don’t think too many of the attendees could dance – I remember “two steps forward and one step back” straight across the dance floor and then turning around so as to go straight back. Also, I think we learned the Virginia Reel at that dance --- there must have been a parent present who knew square dances. Anyway, so far as I know we all had a good time--at least, I know I did.

I think the dance was sponsored by SubDebs – a “sorority” of sorts at Central Junior High School—a group in great disfavor with Mr. Lowther (principal at Central) who thought it hurtful to children not members of the club. 

In my day the clubhouse was just a building – there was a piano desperately out of tune and missing a couple of keys – a Coke machine that frequently had no Cokes in it, a kitchen with stove and (empty) fridge and the large “dance floor”. We loved the large porch on the club house for refuge when it rained and to play cards.

When I went with friends to either Maple Lake or Lake Floyd, I was somewhat envious of the facilities – a large water slide at Maple Lake, and Ping Pong tables at Floyd among others. But we thought the water at Oral was the best – clear and cold whereas the water at the other two lakes was murky.

EDITOR'S NOTE: Were you in a sorority in high school? Which one and what are some of your memories? 

From: Jim Rogers (WI 1964)

I believe the mystery picture is The Oral Lake Clubhouse. It is a private club with fishing and swimming. There were so many functions held there. From high school parties, to Clarksburg Rotary Club functions. During the summers, it was a very popular hangout.

From: John Teter (WI 1961)

The only memory that I have of Oral Lake is that sometime "back in the day", I can remember going in the building in the picture, as it is the "clubhouse" at Oral Lake. I seem to think that the only things inside the "clubhouse" were a boy's and girl's dressing rooms. I do not remember ever swimming in Oral Lake, as I was never that good of a swimmer. The day back in August, 2017 when I took the picture, there was at least one woman (maybe even two) swimming in the lake, and a man was somewhere on the shore talking to her, but I could not actually see him. I did notice that the houses along the road were in HORRIBLE CONDITION, and the steps leading up to some of those houses did not look to be usable. Another thing that interested me was that the few houses that seemed to have garages were covered with bushes and/or vines, but there were not that many actual garages along the road - maybe even just one. I do not know where people living in those houses parked, as the steps were practically ON the road, and I could not actually see much of the houses. A distant comparison to what I remember being at Lake Floyd and Maple Lake, as both of these lakes had been property lots; a large clubhouse; and a lot was done constantly to keep these lakes in good shape and looking good. Richard Underwood (WI 1960) was the reason that I spent most of my lake time at Maple, as his parents had a cottage there. Ice skating was a popular attraction for going to Maple Lake.

I do remember going up the road beside the lake and back into the area beyond the lake, as we had friends and/or relatives living up on the dirt road section. There was a railroad crossing that was very dangerous, as you had to go over the railroad crossing on an upward angle, and most of the time, you could not see down the tracks in either direction. Once we got to where we were going to visit people, I remember we had to drive thru a small creek to get in to where the house was. I am sure that if my sister (Lib Akin) reads this, she can probably tell you the name and connection our family had to the people living up on the dirt road beyond the lake.

From: Bill May (WI 1963)

I'm certain that the November Mystery Picture is the Bath House at Oral Lake. My Uncle had a membership there and I worked there for one summer, either 63 or most likely 64 as a Lifeguard/Water Safety Instructor every day from noon till 5pm. Not a lot of folks there except on weekends so it was slow. The bath house was pretty primitive as I recall but functional. I think it was that same color when I was there.

Have a wonderful holiday season.

THE 2018 SCHOLARSHIP QUILT

The WIN Scholarship quilters have been busy making their red and white blocks.

The 2 quilt squares below were sent by Sherry Keith:

I have already begun to sell tickets to earn money to 

give a $5,000.00 Scholarship to a

2018 graduate from R.C. Byrd High School. 

We believe that education is very important and this is our way of helping a student in Clarksburg with the expenses of a college education. 

Think of it also as our way of saying thank you to the teachers we had while in school in Clarksburg or to our home town.

The tickets cost $5.00 for 6 tickets. Then 12 tickets for $10.00 and the number of tickets you receive keeps increasing compared to the amount of money you send to the scholarship. I look forward to every gift received. The winning ticket will be drawn in April.

Write your check to: Roleta Meredith c/o WIN Scholarship

Mail your check to:

Roleta Meredith

3201 Charles MacDonald Drive

Sarasota, FL 34240

Thank you to the following who sent checks this month for the drawing. I will make out the tickets designated to your name.

Good Luck:

Ray and Judy Allen

Cinda Frenel O’Neill (WI 1966)

Anthony Bellotte (WI 1957)

QUESTIONS FOR YOU TO ANSWER

SHARE YOUR MEMORIES WITH US

PLEASE

Listed below are some questions or subjects that may dust off some of those cob webs from your brain and give you a reason to write and share your memories with us:

Some of these questions came from Lynn Hornor Keith (WI 1966)

1. Do you remember the Peanut Butter Flop at Mercer’s? Also, the grilled cheese sandwiches. I think they were made with Miracle Whip. Does anyone remember. My mother and I would go there and enjoy eating these. 

Write and share your memories with Roleta1@aol.com. When emailing me, please include your name, school and year you did or would have graduated.

Thank you.

2. Growing up around the Clarksburg Country Club, we would ride the city bus to and from school. Every grade was on the same bus and the back was reserved for the high school kids. Our poor drivers had to put up with a lot of shenanigans over the years. Did you ride the city bus to school? Where did you live and where were you dropped off for school? Do you remember something funny that happened on a bus trip? 

Write and share your memories with Roleta1@aol.com.

When emailing me, please include your name, school and year you did or would have graduated.

Thank you.

3. The League for Service event held every year on the Court House Plaza was one of my favorite days of the year. I remember the fish pond and the prizes were miniature loaves of wrapped bread from the local bakery, sort of like Wonder Bread. There were all kinds of things to do. Can anyone help jog my memory of this event? 

Write and share your memories with Roleta1@aol.com

When emailing me, please include your name, school and year you did or would have graduated.

Thank you.

4. At different times though out the year, The Salvation Army Band would play on the Courthouse Plaza too, do you remember that? What occasion did they play? Was it a holiday or a parade or what?

Write and share your memories with Roleta1@aol.com

When emailing me, please include your name, school and year you did or would have graduated.

Thank you.

From: Lynn Hornor Keith (WI 1966)

“Roleta, thanks so much. After reading the current newsletter, I just had to write.”

Reply to Lynn:
“I hope each of our readers will write”

Won’t you please write and help us with the newsletter?

Write to Roleta1@aol.com

When emailing me, please include your name, school and year you did or would have graduated.

Thank you.

From: Harriett Stout Noel (WI 1959)

Once again you and your “crew” (husband and sister) have done a yeoman's job! Tim has out-done himself too and I loved looking at the picture of my uncle Malden Stout who taught at WI in the 1920’s.

It was a great newsletter and I so enjoyed all the wonderful articles, many that brought such warm memories to mind. The Robinson Grand, hot dogs (my favorite was at the bottom of the hill across from my father’s work at Meadow Gold dairy-Lowell’s is what he called it and I never got the dog, just the bun with onions and his fabulous chili), pizza at Twin Oaks or maybe it was at Romano’s (the crust had cornmeal under it-also fabulous), and eating at a restaurant in a basement-was that at the Palace Furniture? anyway, fun memories.

If I had more information I would write a long, rich- in- detail article to celebrate my high school friend Bobbie Johnston Swisher-Class of 1959. She and I went to the Art Institute of Pittsburgh together and roomed at the Salvation Army building there. In all honesty, I was the geek of the two of us and she was so much fun, lively, smiley and just gorgeous and she still is! Everywhere we went I was glad she was with me because she made life just an adventure. Bobbie married and moved away from Clarksburg. She had two wonderful sons and after her husband passed away she moved back to Clarksburg. After graduation from art school I moved to California, married, had a family and have now ended up in Roseburg, Oregon. Over all these years, Bobbie and I have kept in touch though a nation apart. Sometimes just at Christmas and at other times, if we were able, via phone calls or personal visits when we came back to see Clarksburg. Anyway, this stunning, warm and engaging woman is delightful and gave me such rich memories as a young person I will be eternally grateful for having her in my life. So, with clapping hands and a heartfelt blown kiss, I celebrate my classmate Bobbie Johnston Swisher!

Shopping as a young person in Clarksburg is just a blur for me-not much money to do it with and sewing at home came first. My one outstanding memory was a trip to Broida’s (I am not sure of the spelling) with my grandmother after I graduated from Art School. She felt I should have two interview suits. I had honestly dreamed of shopping there but never was quite able and this was my one chance to go to the second floor and have someone choose clothes for me. I dragged the whole thing out as long as I could end up with a beautiful deep cranberry two-piece suit and another navy blue one. I remember them vividly still to this day. Am I right, Roleta, that you worked there? Be still my beating heart! And those hot pink and black bags were something else to behold. I can remember just wishing I had one of the bags!

Now, about those W.Va. sayings! I could regale you all night long with stories, sayings and what-nots but the two that I still use most often (and get a chuckle every time from someone present when I say them) are: “Whew, it’s colder than a well digger’s butt “and when things get really down to being beyond picky in a situation: “Looks like picking fly poop out of pepper”.

Thanks for letting me “bend your ear”, Roleta. You are amazing!

Happy Fall!

Last month I asked what this saying meant. I also asked for you to write and share some of those old sayings that we used to hear often but seldom hear now. I think they are slowing dying and younger people are not acquainted with them at all. Below are a few sayings that may cause you to remember a few and share with us. I had heard most of these but some are new.

Can you add any to this list? 

Won’t you please write?

Write to Roleta1@aol.com

When emailing me, please include your name, school and year you did or would have graduated.

Thank you.

From: Patty Terrill Stealey (WI 1959)

I do not know if these are the kind of sayings that you are looking for, but here goes:

Early to bed, early to rise, Makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise.

Hotter than a flicker’s nest. (My grandmother’s favorite for hot weather)

He is leaning toward Fisher’s (used when people are walking with a stagger)

A fool and his money are soon parted.

Red in the morning, Sailor take warning

Red at night sailor’s delight.

The early bird gets the worm.

Step on a crack, break your mother’s back.

Too soon old and too late smart.

Measure twice. Cut once.

I always like to read the Newsletter.

Good job.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Thank you, Patty, you named several that I remember.

Won’t you please write and share some of your memories?

Write to Roleta1@aol.com

When emailing me, please include your name, school and year you did or would have graduated.

Thank you.

REGARDING THE LIFE OF JOHN STUMP

From: Joe Haugh (WI Class 1952)

A few years ago, my wife, Terry Burruss (Mt. Hope High School class of 1954 and WVU class of 1958), and I moved into a retirement community in Ashburn, Virginia. At dinner one evening, we happened to dine with a man by the name of John Stump. Before long, we both realized that we had common interests in West Virginia and he was somewhat surprised that I even knew the location of Stumptown, West Virginia. We soon found that we had both gone to WI – he - a few years earlier than I. We enjoyed reminiscing about our days there and we had both remembered many of the same teachers. John, in fact, was the person who put me in touch with this “WI Newsletter.”

John and I met periodically over the past couple of years and I was always amazed at his wide range of interests. I don’t think his mind ever stopped and he was always learning something new. At John’s funeral a few weeks ago, I was pleased to meet his sister Mary Stump Harrell (WI 1955) and we had a wonderful time recounting Clarksburg memory.

On another subject and incidentally, thank you to Joe Malone, for the kind words about Jim Bennett. I shared them with some of his friends in Vienna, Virginia and they were so thankful to receive them and learn some things about his and Jerry Danley’s high school days at WI.

MY LIFE AFTER HIGH SCHOOL

From: Tina Bohlman Romanus (Victory HS 1964)

I left Clarksburg on the B&O headed for New York City after my graduation from high school in 1964 to be the singer in a rock & roll band. It was what I had always dreamed of and prepared for. I had studied voice and piano with Ruby Marshall Scott in Clarksburg for years.

In 1963, the TV series “Hootenanny” came to Salem College. It was televised at an old auditorium in Clarksburg. It could have been the Carmichael. I can’t remember. Artists on that night’s show: Nina Simone, The New Christy Minstrels, The Four Preps and The Geezinslaw Brothers. I managed to get into the rehearsal where I met the producer of the show Fred Weintraub, who was also the original owner of “The Bitter End”, a famous coffee house in New York City's Greenwich Village, where legends of the folk and folk-rock era and comedians performed. Fred asked me to come to New York to audition for a group he managed, The Serendipity Singers, during the Christmas holiday. I auditioned and got the job. I went back to Clarksburg to finish my school year and graduate as Fred suggested. During that year while I was still finishing school at Victory High, Fred decided to create another band, which I would become a member of; The Bitter End Singers. I moved to New York and we began rehearsals at the Bitter End the summer following graduation. The Bitter End Singers played clubs, college concerts, and a host of television variety shows including The Tonight Show and recorded two albums. That first year we were invited to campaign with President Lyndon Johnson. We performed at political rallies warming up the crowd. The President would arrive on Air Force One, give a speech and we would fly on ahead to the next location in a private plane. We ended the tour with Lady Bird and President Johnson on the train called The Lady Bird Special, which was on a campaign tour through the Deep South. Later that year we were invited to perform at The White House for the Salute to Congress. We were invited back the next year. Then the White House arranged for us to do a USO tour in Germany. It was all heady stuff and a great honor. Memories to last a lifetime. In gratitude for our work helping in a very small way to get the president elected we were invited to the President’s Inaugural Ball. I needed a handsome escort. I was not dating anyone at the time, so I asked a handsome young man I knew from around the Village. He agreed to take me to the ball, where we fell in love. We were married two years later at St. Patrick’s Cathedral. While I hated to leave the band members, my apartment in Greenwich Village and my beloved manager Fred Weintraub, my husband wanted to move to Hollywood for his career as an actor and after we divorced 12 years later, I began my career again as a singer and actress. My former manager Fred Weintraub soon moved to LA as well, to produce all Bruce Lee’s movies. We’ve stayed lifelong friends as did all the members of my band. Life was tricky for a single mom managing motherhood and a career, so I put my career on hold again and started a CD replication business, which sustained me until I retired. In the meantime, I would do work anyone offered me as a singer or an actress. Just three years ago, I was called by the film director Ralph Bakshi, whom I had worked with 30 years ago. He said, “So, you wanna work for me again?” I said, “Yes, of course.” I became a New Yorker and later an Angelino but I still miss the green hills of West Virginia and my neighborhood in North View.

WORKING AT THE ROBINSON GRAND

From: Jim Ashley (WI 1962)

I’m a little late for my contribution to the Robinson Grand discussion, but life was good when my sister, Barbara Ashley Lefevre (WI 1952), was working at the concession stand. I never got anything for free, but I did get good service.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Did you ever work at one of the movie theaters or drive-ins in or around Clarksburg? Write and tell us where you worked, when was it, and what did you do? 

Won’t you please write?

Write to Roleta1@aol.com

When emailing me, please include your name, school and year you did or would have graduated.

Thank you.

VISITING THE USS ARIZONA

From: Ron Ogren (WI 1950)

On November 11th at 11:11 am. the sun will shine through the series of pillars and onto the USA Emblem on the ground in front of it. I was there in AZ last month and took a few pictures. Very Impressive and moving!

Check out this link for more information:

Once a Year at 11:11 am the Sun Shines Perfectly on this Memorial

Miss Florence Hollins

WI TEACHERS

From: Betsy Ross Bartlett Davis (WI 1940)

My husband, Marlow Davis, also graduated from WI in 1940. A very heart-warming story regarding Miss Hollins has just entered my mind. Marlow was from a broken home and was unhappily living at the Kappa Sigma Pi home on Pike Street. He had an after-school job working at the Esso service station on Main Street. He was a hard-working, very courteous, very, very shy, super-nice student. (Some of the girls referred to him as the most handsome guy in school -- and rightly so.) Miss Hollins learned of his background and spent time getting acquainted with him and encouraging him. He was in two of her classes. She had two other boys in her classes with similar backgrounds. One day she invited all three of them to her house for dinner. She did an excellent job of nurturing, and encouraging them. Marlow was so very appreciative. I don't know how many years ago it was that he was wondering if there was any way we could get her address so he could thank her again. We asked my sister's husband who was still teaching at RW and he got it right away.

Marlow Davis

In Miss Hollins' reply to Marlow's first letter to her, she said, "Your letter brought tears to my eyes." and she thanked him profusely. With joy in their hearts filled with appreciation they kept up this correspondence for the rest of Miss Hollins' life.

You might think that we started dating while still in High School. We did not. I was Clarksburg's first dental hygienist. Our first date was a week after I cleaned his teeth in July, 1947. In the meantime, he had served in the army, after which he enrolled in West Virginia State University, majoring in accounting and eventually became a CPA.

Betsy Ross Bartlett Davis

Thank you SO much, Roleta, for doing what you are doing. Keep up the good work!

From: Willard F. "Bud" Wheelock II (WI 1960)

After 36 years teaching at WI and RCB it still amazes me how well WI was run by Kenneth Cubbon and Miss Custer. In schools today, every little thing is deemed a critical issue by those obsessed with keeping their position and avoiding public criticism. Mr. Cubbon had the ability to differentiate between what was trivial and what was really important! When I was a student there from 1956-60 the home room teachers served as advisors, not trained for it and bad judgments were sometimes made. There were no vice-principals to share administrative duties. No guidance counselors. No one other than Ms. Custer to handle the avalanche of paperwork that existed even back then. There were however several talented, motivated coaches who did keep things under control. We either feared or respected them and they did their job conscientiously. I was fortunate to get to know Clay B. Hite-a man among men! It had to be something really serious for it to go all the way to the principal's office. Success came from it being a TEAM effort. It was a dream come true when I got to work at WI with some of the teachers I had in school, especially my mentor Jack Frederick. On the flip side, once politics took precedence over ability when new administrators were chosen, I saw the educational system county-wide and no doubt nationally going downhill. Don't get me wrong-I had a great relationship with ALL my supervisors at both WI and RCB and they always had the interest of students and teachers as top priority. I especially learned a lot from Sam Scolapio who helped me be a better teacher. All A-1!

Thank you, Tim Cork for adding the names and pictures of the WI teachers. So many I enjoyed as friends and colleagues over the years.

EDITOR'S NOTE: Thank you to Tom Cork (WI 1962) for providing these pictures.

WI TEACHERS TAB 
at the top of the Page

There is now a tab at the top of the newsletter where you can click anytime to look at the year book pictures of every teacher who ever taught at WI.

Through their pictures you can trace on their faces that progress of age or maybe it is aging because of the profession?

Check it out!

Sports Editor: Bill Meredith

billmere@aol.com

Bill,

Since my brother brought it up, I thought I had better respond. The hole in one thing - I have been golfing for a long time, sometimes more frequently than others. When I retired in 1999, I started playing regularly twice a week and have two holes in ones, one in 2004 and the second in 2014. In fact, the church group I golf with has a "Hole-in-One" traveling trophy that goes to the last one in the group to have one. I have the trophy and will have to find it for the next one, if I can remember where my wife hid it.

Bob Teter (WI 1961)

Reply to Bob:

I have been golfing regularly for about 55-years and, unfortunately, have never had a hole-in-one. I've been close, but never quite got there. I realize that you must first hit the ball toward the hole to have a chance, but beyond that, there is quite a bit of luck involved. Apparently, I just don't have that kind of luck. A fellow employee of mine, who had one of the worst golf swings I have ever seen, had five aces, which proves that it is not technique.

In case you didn't know, an Albatross, which is three under par on a par 5 hole (2), is more difficult to get than a hole-in-one. Also, a Condor, which is an ace on a par 5 is extremely rare. As of 2008, only four condors had ever been recorded. One thing is for sure, I'll keep trying for my first ace. As for an albatross or a condor, I'll leave that to my son.

Thanks for writing, Bob. I hope to hear from you again soon.

Bill (billmere@aol.com)

Bill:

I have been playing golf since the mid-fifties, but took about thirty years off to pursue a career, before restarting again in the mid-nineties.

I have had four holes-in-one.

#1 was hole three at Preston Country Club, Kingwood, WV 155 yards

#2 was hole nine at Preston Country Club 146 yards

#3 was about three weeks later on the same hole at Preston Country Club

#4 was hole eleven at Cranes Roost, at The Plantation, Leesburg, FL 143 yards.

Now at age 82 and two back surgeries, I have some difficulty reaching holes at those distances.

Bill Strickler (WI 1953)

Reply to Bill:

You've done very well for having a thirty-year period away from the game. Preston Country Club has been good to you. Roleta and I have played it many times, since we summered at Alpine Lake a couple of years. Prior to that, when my brother lived in Masontown, we got in a few rounds there.

I remember the course for two reasons. First is its location near Camp Dawson. I'm told that Army brass from Washington, DC, often spent weekends playing golf at Preston CC. Plus, I'll never forget the Flood of 1985, reading about how the Cheat River covered the course. I had a hard time imagining that could have happened.

Thanks for writing and keep hitting them straight.

Bill (billmere@aol.com)

THAT EMPTY FEELING: 

WVU FOOTBALL

"Dear John, that's all she wrote,

                       I sent your saddle home."

                                           -Hank Williams

The above note was sent to me by Mike Snyder, W I 1957, shortly after the WVU/Texas game. He was, of course, referring to the injury to quarterback Will Grier early in the game. His loss changed the game and the rest of the season for the Mountaineers. Without him, they lost to a Texas team they should have beaten. It is doubtful if he will play again until next fall.

Although many of us hated to admit it, we knew that as Grier went, so went the team. Major losses of players on the defense and a suspect offensive line coming into the season, made it imperative that the passing game take up the slack, if they were to be competitive in the Big 12. Grier and his four receivers (that's all they have---four) did just that and the team was in every game. Now, Grier is gone. Even a loss to Oklahoma in the final game would not ruin the season, but it would have been nice to see this team have a shot at the Big 12 title, which they had before Grier's injury.

It's time to get out the old, "Wait 'til next year" slogan. Let's hope we get to see one of the most talented quarterbacks ever to wear the gold and blue entertain us one more year.

Bill (billmere@aol.com)

"YOU DON'T TUG ON SUPERMAN'S CAPE"

Just like most Mountaineer fans, I was disappointed in the outcome of the WVU/Oklahoma football game. My heart thought we had a chance, but my brain told me there was no way we could stay with the Sooners, especially without Will Grier. I thought the final spread would probably be 21-25 points. Little did I know that some of our players had their own agenda.

Even before the opening kickoff. it appeared that there was "Trouble in River City". Bad blood was brewing between these two teams. Once the game began, the trash talk, constant shoving and pushing and what turned out to be actual dirty playing commenced. I think some of WVU's players knew they really didn't have much of a chance for a win, so they resorted to questionable tactics against the opponent. The Sooners were already rolling, when one of their linemen was mugged on the ground and was disqualified for retaliating. I knew then that the rout was on.

Oklahoma would score on nine straight possessions. I felt sorry for our defense, because it looked like the old saying, "These were men playing against boys". I honestly believe they could have scored 80 or more points if they cared to do so. I guess their coach decided that he had already put a whuppin' on us, so the QB took a knee at the end of the game to avoid another score.

I'm all for rough and tough play. In fact, Dana Holgorsen called out the team during mid-season for not being tough enough. However, these antics went far beyond tough play. I don't think there is a need for this in college football. I had no excuse when one of my good friends, who had no dog in the hunt, commented to me that "my team (WVU) plays dirty football". For the first time in my life, I was ashamed to admit that I was a proud fan of the Mountaineer football team. It wasn't a good feeling.

What do you think? Am I being too critical or do you agree with me? 

Send your comments to: Bill (billmere@aol.com)

WI CLASS OF 1968

50^th REUNION

WHEN: August 31, 2018 and September 1, 2018

                     Labor Day Week-End

NOTICE: If you are a classmate and you did not receive a letter in the mail, please contact GERALD WORKMAM at rgw1968@yahoo.com

HELP: If you know someone who graduated in 1968, mention this to them just in case they didn’t know.

Thank you.

All Class Reunion information that is sent to the WI Newsletter will appear on the Class Reunion page (with an easy to find tab at the top of the page)

Click on the tab anytime to find out the latest information on our Class Reunions!

If you have any information regarding a Class Reunion, please write to Roleta1@aol.com.

Be sure to include all the needed information including:

WHEN: Place and Time

WHERE: Venue and location

CONTACT PERSON INFORMATION: Name(s) and email address(es)

FIRST DATE

From: Sandy Zickefoose Lindke (WI 1956)

My first date with Gene Thomas, my first husband and father of my four children, was to the movies. The movie was Jumping Jacks with Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis.

Gene was four years older than me and graduated from WI two years ahead of me. He joined the Navy soon after graduation. Gene would hitchhike from Norfolk, VA to Clarksburg every weekend that he did not have duty. That would have been a long, cold and lonely trip over the mountains on Rt 50. We were married in March of my senior year against my father’s wishes. We eloped to Sparta, NC and took Carol Sue Costlow Gabbert as our witness. Our first child, son Gene Edward, was born on August 3, 1957. On July 9, 1958 second son Timothy, came along. Daughter Nanette Marie entered the world on November 30, 1959. Our youngest son Gregory was born two months premature on November 17, 1960. We were foster parents for Oakland County Michigan for a few years. I drove a school bus while Gene worked for Pontiac Motors as a maintenance welder. Gene passed away from cancer when our first grandchild was a few months old. Now I have 10 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren.

I like my hot dog with WV chili sauce, mustard and onions. No slaw for this girl.

BEST FRIENDS FOREVER

From: Cathy Kay Strogen (WI 1965)

Cecilia Hammond Salvadori (L) and Cathy Kay Strogen (R) both 1965 graduates of WI traveled with Cathy's husband Martin Strogen RW 1964, to beautiful Puerto Vallarta Mexico this past October. Besides enjoying the beautiful weather and white beaches and eating and drinking till their hearts content, the trio enjoyed beach massages, travelled thru a jungle, enjoyed Rhythm of the Night a local production performed at a remote island accessible only by boat and toured the area where The Night of the Iguana was filmed with Richard Burton and Liz Taylor.

Their next adventure will be back to Puerto Plata in February.

“REBEL YELL”

by S.C. Gwynne

From: Mike Snyder (WI 1957)

This New York Times best seller is the best biography to date about the greatest West Virginian who ever lived, Clarksburg native Thomas Johnathan “Stonewall” Jackson. This writer has read this book (find it on Amazon) twice because it is so good. Stonewall comes to life as never before. It records in detail, his rugged early life at Jackson's Mill, his West Point years, and his bravery in the Mexican War.

We follow him to Lexington, Virginia, where he was a professor at the Virginia Military Institute and the fact that he was not regarded highly as an academic. His first wife died and he later remarried. Their daughter, Julia Laura, was born during the war. Jackson was revered by the black residents of Lexington where he conducted a Sunday school class which included freedmen and slaves alike. One slave working in a hotel asked Jackson to buy him, which he did. He also took into his household a mentally handicapped four-year old black girl.

When the War Between the States began, the transformation of Jackson also began. He publicly drew his sword and threw away the scabbard. In the First Battle of Bull Run, Jackson's brigade withstood the brunt of the massive Northern assault. He rallied his troops with his entreaty to fight, scream and yell with all their might. As a result of this great Southern victory, Jackson earned the sobriquet of Stonewall, and according to Gwynne, it was here that the rebel yell was born. The author paints in vivid colors Jackson's meteoric rise to fame on the battlefields of the Shenandoah Valley, becoming in the writer's words, one of the most famous men in the Western world.

Secretive, eccentric, brilliant, fearless, devoutly religious; but first and foremost, always the master strategist, his forces withstood Northern foes three times greater in number, diverting some 70,000 Northern troops away from McClellan's campaign against Richmond. As a result of his Valley Campaign, as it became known in history, Jackson is considered “without argument” one of America's greatest military figures. His tactics to this day are studied in military academies throughout the world.

This reporter makes some reflections on Jackson's life:1. The war severed permanently his very close relationship with his sister Laura (Arnold) of Beverly, a staunch defender of the Union. 2.There may be more statues of Stonewall Jackson than any other Southern leader—in Clarksburg, Charleston, Lexington and VMI, Richmond, and Stone Mountain, Georgia. His name is attached in West Virginia and throughout the South to myriad schools, streets, institutions, restaurants, Lee-Jackson Day, a former Clarksburg hotel and the state park and lake in Lewis County. 3. His capture of 10,000 Yankee prisoners at Harper's Ferry was the largest surrender in U.S. history until the fall of Bataan in WW II. 4. Could he have captured Washington, D.C.? At one point early in the war, possibly. 5. Had he not been killed at Chancellorsville and lived to fight at Gettysburg—the aggressive Jackson would have likely seized the high ground first in that battle, which the North did instead—and the outcome would have been reversed. Had that happened, there is a likelihood that peace would have been declared and the Confederate States of America could have become a separate country.

GUESS WHO?

Look closely at the picture above. Do you recognize this young man? 

He graduated from WI. I know him!!!! Do you?

Write and tell me his name and anything else about the picture.

For Instance:    What is he wearing?

                             Do you recognize what he is holding?

                             Where is he standing? What place? 
                              (location)

                             Tell me anything you can about this man.

Won’t you please write and tell us about him?

Write to Roleta1@aol.com

When emailing me, please include your name, school and year you did or would have graduated.

Thank you.

REMEMBERING

BARBARA ANN CHRISTIE MORRIS

(“PUNCHY”)

From: Joe Malone

Ro - Since I read obituaries these days the way I used to read resumes', I found myself at the end of November's Newsletter and Barbara Ann Morris's listing. Some of you may remember her as "Mrs. Morris", the Librarian; some as "Bud" Morris' wife; Melissa's mother; but those of us at WI in the early 50's knew her as just "Punchy"!

The Christie family, Barbara, Cleve & Penny lived near me on Wilson Street, just up the hill from WI. Punchy, as she was known then, graduated in 1950. The quote from her yearbook read, "A tiny doll with golden hair and golden personality is rare." She was small in stature but perky, bright and cheerful in her actions.

An Honor Student, Punchy went on to Salem College and WVU. After teaching at Victory, she become the Librarian at WI. This connected her with my sister, Sadie Graham, who, at the time, was the Librarian at Salem College/University. They were also both long-time members of the Clarksburg First Presbyterian Church.

These connections led into a common interest in quilting and the Ladies Quilting Group at Fort New Salem. Above is a (bad) photo of the group which I have framed and hanging at my cottage at Lake Floyd. (Sis titled it, "The worst possible picture of all of us!") I also have included a photo of a wall hanging they made for me from the scraps of the quilt in the group picture. (Note below: The "Bow-tie" motif) They once submitted a piece of their work to a statewide competition and later sold it for over $1000.

I'm sorry I can't name each member of the group. Punchy is second from the left. Sis (WI-43) is third from the right, beside Mim (Lowther) Allen (WI-44). Sis is currently residing at the Clarksburg Rehab Facility on Davisson Road. A while back we visited Punchy at Maplewood. I'm guessing that they both submitted squares To Sue Shelby Moats for your annual Newsletter quilt fundraiser. I know Sis did. (BTW, she has her small quilting frame with her on Davisson Road.)

While I babble on, let me conclude with my thanks once again for the Meredith Family and their work on this publication. I've been "on it" since the beginning.

JANELL JARANKO

From: Greg Jaranko (WI 1960)

My Mother said she saw my wife's obit in the newsletter. I am so sad that she is gone. I have attempted to get her info to her class in Pontiac, Michigan. I have not heard that anyone there knows. Yes, her obit was placed in the newspaper there. Several of her Michigan friends made the trip to her funeral. There was no time to think about it they just made the trip. Wonderful friends unexpectedly interrupting their lives to pay their respect to their good friend and in one case a relative. I know Janell appreciated them coming.

Janell's son and his wife made the trip from Oregon with their 2-year-old daughter. Janell was in agony if she didn't receive a video of her granddaughter every day. Then there were the video phone calls. The happiest time of her week. " Hi Vivi".

Her death leaves a huge void in my life and my heart.

Without reciting her wonderful traits and many accomplishments I am wondering how one should be remembered? Then how are those memories shared? Not everyone can write a memoir or an autobiography. So many of us go to our final reward without much more than a brief obituary. Date of birth and date of death. Oh yes, they had parents and siblings. Is that it? Why yes, for many of us that is it. Does that mean our lives have been insignificant? Maybe.

Of course, this gets me to "what's it all about". Why do we live? What are we supposed to do? What is an accomplishment?

Is it money? Inventions? The internet? An app? Children that might accomplish what we couldn't?

Still, I haven't answered what is an accomplishment? Did I start a religion? Did I encourage thousands to join a religion? Did I teach thousands how to earn thousands of dollars? Was it the LED bulb? 3D printer? Sergeant Pepper’s Lonely-Hearts Club Band? Mona Lisa? St. Peter’s Cathedral? The Wall?

Perhaps it is merely to be remembered as a good human being. One who treated everyone with respect and kindness. Baked you a cake just because it wasn't your birthday. Answered the phone without a trace of bitterness that their phone rang.

Are those pleasant people few and far between? I hope not. I don’t think so. I am sure I am not one of those but I am sure my wife was a shining example of someone who was.

It is my fervent wish that the world will remember her by remembering that wonderful someone in their life that made a difference in all our lives. Certainly, we all benefit from that one good soul who cared for the sick in India. Never met her. Never saw her. Don't know anyone who did. Yet I feel so much better because I know she existed.

If no one is there does a falling tree in the woods make a noise?

Perhaps an accomplishment, the greatest accomplishment, is to have lived a humble life.

My thanks to all of you that knew and loved my wife.

F. ADA PINION TRUPO

F. Ada (Pinion) Trupo of Bridgeport, WV (91) was born April 21, 1926 passed away October 28, 2017 following a brief illness. A daughter of the late Joseph & Patsy Pinion of (Glen Elk) Clarksburg, WV.

Ada was preceded in death by her husband of 71 years, Louis J. “Zeke” Trupo in April of this year. Also preceded in death by an infant daughter, one sister, Julia Tenda, three brothers, Anthony (Tony) Pinion, William “Bill” Pinion, and John Pinion all of Clarksburg.

She is survived by a daughter, Jona (Trupo) Michel and husband, Tom; two sons, Dr. Joe Trupo and wife, Debbie, and Louis Trupo Jr. and wife, Tammy; and a special daughter, Michelle Brady. Also surviving are six grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; one brother-in-law, L. Joe Trupo; sisters-in-law, Frances McConchie, DE and June Pinion. Also surviving are several nieces and nephews.

Ada graduated from WI High School in 1944 and worked for the Maidenform Co. in Clarksburg during and after WWII. In later years she worked at W.T. Grant Co. and eventually went to work for the Harrison County BOE and retired as a school cook from Johnson Elem School in Bridgeport. Ada enjoyed being a poll worker for many elections.

Ada was a faithful member of All Saints Catholic Church for more than 62 years. She was also active with All Saints School during her children’s years.

JUDITH FRANCES HOLT

Judith Frances Holt, 78, of Bridgeport, passed away Monday, Oct. 30, 2017, at the Bridgeport Healthcare Center after a courageous battle with RA and breast cancer.  She was born March 15, 1939, the second child born to William F. and Catherine F. (Poleska) Holden.

Judith graduated from Victory High School in 1957 and had a career at the Monongahela Power Company for over 35 years.

In 1961 Judith married Jack R. Holt and they resided in Bridgeport for over 50 years.

Judith leaves behind her husband, Jack R. Holt; brothers, Ronald F. Holden and Gregory A. Holden, William D. Holden; and a sister, Rebecca M. Ogorzalek.

Judith was an avid golfer and a member of the Sunny Croft Country Club for many years. She was also a member of the St. James Catholic Church in Clarksburg.

DAVID L. KINNEY

David Lawrence Kinney, 84, of Sarasota, FL passed away Tuesday, November 14, 2017 surrounded by his loving family. Son of the late Homer L. and Vernice Shaffer Kinney, David was born July 22, 1933 in Terra Alta, WV. He was educated in Clarksburg, WV and graduated from WI in 1950. He worked as a machinist prior to joining the United States Air Force in 1953. David was Honorably Discharged in 1957, having proudly served one year in Korea. He was married to Evelyn Byrd (deceased) settling in Sarasota to raise their family in 1957. He was well known locally as a skilled sheet metal worker and co-owner of Kinney-Johnson Fabricators. David shared his talent with sheet metal apprentices teaching evening classes at the former Sarasota County Vocational Technical School. In 1984, David married June Younkin. They retired to Hiawassee, GA in 1990.

David is survived by his wife of 33 years, June Kinney. He is also survived by his sisters, Kay Shepard (Gary) and Martha Kessler, of Sarasota. Also surviving are his daughters, Cheryl Pachinger, Debra Lambert (Lenny), sons, Robert Kinney, Skip Younkin (Jan), and Kirby Younkin (Jacki). David is also survived by 9 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. He was predeceased by daughter, Mary and great-grandson, Bryce.

He is a member of Phoenix Masonic Lodge # 346 Sarasota, FL, Sahib Shriners, Sarasota, FL, Northminster Presbyterian Church, Sarasota, FL. He is a past member of VFW Post 7807, Hiawassee, GA and Mountain Presbyterian Church, Blairsville, GA.

MARTHA JO LITTLE CAPPELLARI

Martha Jo (Little) Cappellari, 85, died peacefully at her home in Potomac, MD, in the presence of family members on Wednesday, October 18. She was born on April 10, 1932, in Clarksburg, WV, to the late Charles and Maude (Robinson) Little. She was preceded in death by her two brothers, John Howard and Charles Edward Little, and her two half-sisters, Elma Ridgway and Pauline Umstead.

She grew up in Clarksburg, graduating from Washington Irving High School in 1950. Following high school, she attended Marshall University in Huntington, WV, where she met her future husband, James Oliver Cappellari, Jr. (Jim), and received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education in 1954.  She went on to earn her Master of Science degree in Child Development at Purdue University in 1958.

Martha Jo and Jim were married on October 3, 1953, and were happily married for 64 years.

Martha Jo taught kindergarten at the Purdue University School of Child Development Laboratory School for 4 years before retiring to raise her family. She later worked as a volunteer in the Suburban Hospital Recovery Room and then as the office manager for a small private endocrinology practice. After retiring from this position, she accompanied her husband Jim on his many trips.

She was a member of the Fourth Presbyterian Church for 43 years.

Martha Jo was a dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother who loved family gatherings, travelling, culinary enjoyments, organ music, storytelling, and family history. She took great delight in the beauty and serenity of her beloved West Virginia mountains and thoroughly enjoyed the many family vacations to these mountains and to the beaches of North Carolina.

In addition to her husband Jim, she is survived by her son James (Jim) Cappellari and his wife Linda, her son Charles (Chuck) Cappellari and his wife Sonni, and her daughter Sallie Blumenauer and her husband John. She is also survived by grandchildren Catherine Cappellari, Elizabeth Cappellari Brooks and her husband Vikarma Brooks, David Cappellari, Robert Blumenauer, Emily Blumenauer, Megan Blumenauer, Christian Cappellari, and Daisy Cappellari.

RAY L. BUTCHER

Ray L. Butcher, 79, of Warren, passed away peacefully Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2017.He was born Jan. 18, 1938, in Clarksburg, and had lived in Ohio since 1966.

A 1956 graduate of Washington Irving High School, Ray retired from General Motors after 41 years as a repairman. He enjoyed working around his house, a good game of horseshoes, as well as his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was an auxiliary member of the VFW in Newton Falls.

Loving memories of Ray will live in his four children, Debra (Mike) Godbey, Ray C. (Susan) Butcher, Rosemary (Windell), and Richard F. (Kathy) Butcher; nine grandchildren; three great-grandchildren, and awaiting the birth of another great-grandson; five sisters, Barbara Johnson of Roanoke, VA, Sharon Alonso, Brenda Conley, Linda Altovilla and Terry Felts; three brothers, Gerald, Richard and Ronnie Joe Butcher; and a brother-in-law, John (Charylene) Chipps.

Preceding him in death are his parents; his wife, Glenna (Chipps) Butcher, whom he married April 8, 1957, and who died July 10, 2010; four sisters, Olive Pearl “Bobby” Boyce, Margaret “Peggy” Schweinbraten, Sarah Elizabeth Spohn and Rosemary Tingler; and a brother, James Butcher.

  

from the WI Newsletter Staff

  

“What do we love about Christmas?

Does our delight reside in things?

Or are the feelings in our hearts,

the real gift that Christmas brings.

It’s seeing those we love,

and sending Christmas cards, too,

It’s appreciating people who bring us joy,

special people just like you.”

“Because in everything we do,

our readers always play a part.

Because a loving thought of you,

is always in our hearts.

Because each little wish of ours,

you’ve tried to make come true.

At Christmas time, we want to say,

how dearly we love you.”

We hope that this holiday season brings you love, joy and peace, now and throughout the following year.

Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

Roleta, Bill and Jalon