April 4, 2018

Issue 224




Editor: Roleta Smith Meredith

Publisher: Jalon Smith Burton



Above is a picture of The Sea of Galilee, one of Bill's favorite pictures.

THE HOLY LAND

From: Bill Meredith

Roleta and I just returned from a 13-day trip to the Holy Land. We visited Jordan and Israel. The trip has been on my "bucket list" for many years and although my wife was reluctant at first, I finally convinced her that we would be safe traveling in the Middle East.

We started in Jordan, visiting Petra, an ancient city over two thousand years old. The only way to reach the site was by walking or riding a horse drawn cart over very rough terrain. The walk, which we chose, was 2-1/2 miles downhill, which translated into 2-1/2 miles uphill for the return. According to Roleta's Fitbit, we walked seven miles that first day.

We then visited Mt. Nebo, from where Moses viewed the Promised Land, which he did not enter, since he died and apparently was buried on the mountain, prior to crossing the Jordan River.

Unlike Moses, we did cross the Jordan into Israel. We encountered two checkpoints at the border and crossed successfully. We were told that is not always the case, as security is very tight in Israel.

We were kept very busy, traveling by bus 9-10 hours each day, taking in all of the sites and being amazed at actually seeing what we've read about all of our lives in the bible. We saw Jericho, where "the walls came tumbling down", Bethany Beyond-the-Jordan, where Jesus was baptized by John The Baptist and Masada, the Jewish stronghold, where rebels against Roman rule made their last stand. A highlight for me was seeing the original cave where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found.

Touring Jerusalem and surrounding areas, we followed the life of Jesus, from Bethlehem to Nazareth to Capernaum and back to Jerusalem to the sites of His crucifixion, burial and resurrection.

The highlight of the trip was the chance to be baptized in the Jordan River. Although we had both been baptized previously, this time it was extra special for us.

Incidentally, we walked after dark in West Jerusalem, which is a mostly Arab neighborhood, and had no problem at all. I truly believe Jerusalem is safer than most large cities in our own country, so do not let concerns for security prevent your traveling in Israel. It could be your trip of a lifetime. It was for me.




An Arab man selling things on the street, liked Roleta’s blue eyes. He insisted on putting the headdress on her. We enjoyed talking and laughing with him, needless to say, we bought the headdress. She is standing by a sycamore tree. Remember the story or song about Zacchaeus?






THE WIN SCHOLARSHIP


ONLY ONE MORE MONTH 
DRAWING TAKES PLACE IN MAY


Some info, in case you didn’t know:

The WIN Quilters have been graciously volunteering their talent to make a quilt for the WI Newsletter Scholarship for the last 13 years. I believe my calculation for that is correct. This is the only money maker for the Scholarship, other than that, it is your generosity in supporting this scholarship that helps it to exist. Anyway, each volunteer receives a packet of material to use in the quilt square and some suggestions from Sue Selby Moats. The ladies piece together their squares and press them and send them to Sue. Sue then arranges the squares to make a lovely pattern. She puts a border around each square, sews this all together, then she puts a border all around the entire quit top. There is a backing put in place with some material in between. Then the quilt top is put in place. Sue then quilts all the pieces together with a lovely pattern all over the quilt. The results are magnificent. This year the quilt looks exceptionally lovely as it is all red and white! What a beautiful addition to any bedroom. 

I sell tickets for the quilt which cost 6 for $5.00 and increase the same with each additionally $5.00. I do not sell tickets for less that groups of 6. I write down each name of each purchaser and write down the number on the tickets that the person is assigned for the money they sent. Sue then sends the quilt to the winner.


Why not be part of this? If having a quilt in your home isn’t your thing, I assure you could gift it to someone - don’t know anyone to give it to? Well, give it to me, I love quilts!



Write your check to Roleta Meredith c/0 WIN Scholarship.

Mail it to: Roleta Meredith
          3201 Charles MacDonald Drive
          Sarasota, Florida 34240




Above is a photo of the center block of the 2018 WIN Scholarship Quilt: 
Pieces of the Past #2 
by Sherry Keith

The following information has been provided by Sue Selby Moats (WI 1955):

The center right block is by Joan Merrill and I've made 3 like it.
The bottom right block is by Kitty Sager with 3 more like it.
This will be a traditional red and white sampler quilt with the other blocks added in rows & columns around the center.
The red print fabrics are all vintage fabrics.

Be sure to donate to the WIN Scholarship Fund to insure your chances of being the ‘WIN’ner.


Thank you to those who sent money to the scholarship this month:

Lib Akin 
Thank you for the generous check given in memory of Bob Secret, Jim Collins, and Ronnie Shaw.

Mary Harrell (WI 1955) 
Thank you for your gift to the scholarship. No tickets requested.

Beverly (WI 1958) and Larry O’Grady (Bridgeport 1955)
Thank you for your continuing support of the newsletter.

Anita White 
Thank you for your continuing support of the Scholarship.

Doug Aspy (WI 1962) 
Thank you. I liked your comments about one more picnic to get us all together. I hope that you can make it to the picnic.

Bob Hall (WI 1956) 
Thanks for your support of the Scholarship.

Bill Bryan (RW 1957) 
Thanks for your continuing support. See you at the WI picnic next March.

Mary Burnell Thanks for your continuing support of the scholarship.

Ron Thorne (Victory 1954) 
Thank you for your generous gift to the scholarship.

Arreta Jaranko (WI 1940) 
Thank you for your gift to the scholarship and your continued support of the newsletter.







 WRITE TO US


Dear Reader:

If you can’t think of anything to write about, you will see some suggested subjects scattered throughout 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.






THE MARCH MYSTERY PICTURE


From: Beth Twigg Devericks (WI 1959)

The mystery picture for March is the Masonic lodge building on Pike Street. When I was growing up. I spent a lot of time there with my parents. I was usually helping my Mother with Eastern Star dinners with such chores as washing dishes and cleaning up after Mason dinners. I went to a lot banquets there.


From: John Probst (WI 1964)

That's the Masonic Temple. My father Andrew Probst was a 32nd degree Mason and a member of the Knights Templer and they had their meetings and Masonic Lodge room there. When I was in high school, he occasionally took me in there. They had a game room with a couple of pool tables and we would shoot pool.


From: Linda (Nutter) Gimmel (WIHS 1966)

I think this building is the Masonic Temple. It is located across from the current Public Library and originally the Ritz Theater. This is a beautiful building owned and operated by the Masonic Bodies, Lodge #155 and Lodge 6. Masonic organizations met there including Queen Esther Chapter #11 of Eastern Star and several others. There is a large kitchen, banquet room and stage on the second floor. At one time for several years Hope Gas had offices in the building. It is also the office for the Masonic Cemetery on Joyce Street in Clarksburg. I understand there was even a shooting range in the basement that was used by the Demolay chapter. The Rainbow girls also met there.
The building you see to the right is the Elks Lodge.


From: Joe Tripper (VHS 1958)

The Masonic Temple is on Pike Street in the same block as the Ritz and Robinson Grand. The Elks club was next door. No, I was not a Mason but my father was.


From: Babe Bisping Cashman (WI 1956)

The mystery picture is the Masonic Temple on Pike Street just west of the Ritz theater.
Both Demolay and Rainbow for girls met there. Attended many meetings there. Does it still stand?
Thanks Roleta, for all your dedication to the memories of Clarksburg and WI.
I know there are lots of us who don’t contribute to the newsletter; but, really appreciate all the reminders of those wonderful days of our youth.
Really look forward to seeing everyone next year for one more time.


From: John Teter (WI 1961)

I think that the March mystery picture is the Masonic Lodge, on Pike Street. It is located across from the VFW and close to where the Ritz Theater used to be, which is now the library. I think that the building behind the Lodge, might be the Elks Lodge which (I think) burned down. I think that the Elks Lodge is now down on Pike Street, close to Notre Dame High School.


From: Bob Kramer (WI 1965)

Mystery pic is the Masonic Temple on West Pike Street. They had dances there plus 2 Masonic lodges in the building
When the Elks lodge caught fire, there was significant damage to the Masonic Temple.it was repaired and upgraded and is beautiful inside.


From: James D (Jim) Smith (Victory 1962)

The March Picture is the Masonic Temple on East Pike Street in downtown Clarksburg. It was originally 3 buildings West of 4th Street. The building on left was the Elks Building which was torn down. There used to be a Sears appliance center on Corner, not the Sears Retail on 2nd and Main. The partial picture on left was The Jewish Synagogue, also now gone. At corner of Pike and 4th now is BB&T branch bank, and parking lot for bank abuts the Masonic building and where Elks building once stood.


From: Willard "Bud" Wheelock (WI 1960)

Mystery picture for March is the Masonic Temple on Pike Street across from the VFW. When I was in high school we had the NRA sponsored marksmanship sessions downstairs in the basement. DeMolay had their meetings there too. Incidentally that group was named after the last Grand Master of the Knights Templar!


From: Blair Gloss (WI 1961)

That is the Masonic Temple on Pike Street. I was a member of the Demolay and had occasion to be in that building a number of times in that regard. Also, my aunt worked in that building as what we would now call an Admin. Assistant for the building.
The DeMolay is an organization for boys 12-21 years old which is sponsored by the Masons. My uncle was a 33rd degree Mason and my father a 32-degree Mason and thus my brother (Phil) and I were encouraged to be a part of the Masonic organization thru the DeMolay. The namesake of the Order of DeMolay was born in France in the year 1244, and at the age of 21 DeMolay joined the Order of Knights Templar. The organization of the DeMolay strives to develop leaders thru stressing love of family, reverence for sacred things, courtesy, comradeship, patriotism, and fidelity. To encourage socialization in the organization, there was a club room in the back of the Masonic Temple with a pool table and ping pong table; the DeMolay organized and participated in civic activities.


From: Arreta Radcliffe Jaranko
(WI class of 1940 and Joseph Patrick Jaranko - Would have been WI 1967)

My son Joseph and I think the mystery picture is the Masonic Temple. It was on Pike Street by the Elks Club and the Synagogue until it was torn down. The American Legion and VFW were across the street. I have been a member of the Eastern Star for over fifty years and attended the meetings there until I moved to Morgantown. My mother served in different offices as a member of the Eastern Star. Two of my brothers were Masons along with my uncles and cousins. The Green Lawn Cemetery located near Wilsonburg is a Masonic graveyard. My mother told me that when her brother (my Uncle Frank) came home from World War I, he bought the family plot there so that is where my grandmother, my grandfather, my Uncle Frank and several other family members are buried. The Radcliffe spaces hold my wonderful mother, my dear younger brother and his wife and it is near the Swiger family plot. My family has been so much a part of the story of Stealey and Clarksburg. Just think, my mother went to Morgan School and when my brothers, sister and I went to Morgan School, the same principal was there that was her principal. Not many kids can say that. Thank you for the Newsletter and the opportunity to share what history I know about Clarksburg.


From: Terry Snider Fazio (WI 1967)

The Mystery picture is the Clarksburg Masonic Temple. I was in Rainbow Girls there. It was held on the top floor. My mother was quite active in Eastern Star at one time.
Rainbow was the girl’s organization of Masons and Easter Star. You didn't have to have a relationship either adult organization in order to belong. You just had to be asked by one of the members of the order. It was great--we met girls from other schools and built up quite a comradeship. Rainbow Girls had a datebook they published every year. The girl who sold the most got to go to Grand Assembly that year. I was fortunate to sell the most I believe my Junior year and got to attend Grand Assembly in Denver   Colorado that year. Suzan Williams Hood also attended that year. It was a wonderful trip. There were girls from all over WV there. Some of the adults were some of the greatest I have ever met.
I think one of the things I learned from Rainbow was discipline more than anything. It was ritualistic work and we had a tough taskmaster in Mrs. Fittro who made sure we toed the line and learned our memory work and floor work. I'm sure we did projects but right now I can't think of any. I'm sure some of the other readers can relate more.
Sadly, I don't think there is a Rainbow chapter in Clarksburg anymore. Not sure about the rest of the country.






WHAT HAVE YOU BEEN DOING 
SINCE HIGH SCHOOL?


From: Sandra Zickefoose Lindke (WI 1956)

I was Security Manager for an exclusive condominium high rise in Naples, Fl. During my 13 years of employment the greatest highlight was working with the Secret Service and other State and Local agencies on a visit for Florida Governor Jeb Bush and his parents former President George and Barbara Bush. They were coming to a luncheon at author Dr. Robin Cooks penthouse condo. Their visit to Naples was to raise money for books for needy children. What a gracious family. They took the time to pose for photos with me and other staff members.




PIERPOINT SCHOOL PICTURE IN
THE MARCH NEWSLETTER




From: Bob Teter (WI 1960)

Just guesses, am I correct?
Second row, right, Naomi Lewis - 
Bottom row left, Peter Fragale - 
Bottom row right, Mary Joe Marra.

HELP! Does anyone know if these are correct?

Write to Roleta1@aol.com

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

Thank you.






UPDATE:

Williams McDonald (WI 1956).
Was pastsnoop@suddenlink.net is now pastsnoop1@suddenlink.net
(Note: just add a 1 behind the word pastsnoop)

Roger Young (WI 1972) rkywmy@yahoo.com

Gary Robey (WI-57) robey.g@gmail.com
He fixed his computer and retrieved his email information.
He is now back at his old email address

ADD AGAIN:

Patricia Fiorenza DeLille (WI 1956) pfd4289@gmail.com







HIGH SCHOOL NEWSPAPERS


Were you involved in the publication of the newspaper at your school? What did you do? Did the students really gather the news? Did the students write the columns, edit the input from others, do the layouts, meet the deadline, take it to the publisher, who published the newspaper? Write and tell us all about it. I asked this question before. Someone actually read the question and answered it. Can you tell us your experiences? I remember that Judy Daugherty was a member of the staff of the “Hilltopper” when we were in WI. I don’t know how people were picked to be on the staff? Was it a popularity thing? Was it a volunteer club? How were the positions filled on the staff? I was never approached nor knew anything about it at that time, I didn’t think I had any ability in composition or what it takes to write anything, let alone an essay. Now look at the twist in my life, I am involved. Write and tell us your experiences.


From: Jim Ashley (WI 1962)

Mike Patrick and I were the sports editors of the Hilltop newspaper and Memoirs yearbook for our class of 1962. We were planning to be roommates at WVU, but his grandparent’s decision to relocate to northern Virginia upon his grandfather’s retirement very likely raised Mike’s GPA by at least a full point given how much better my eventual roommate did once I was no longer a bad influence on him. I am attaching one of the articles that Mike wrote for the October, 1961, Hilltop. Victories in both football and basketball were rare that school year, so writing on the games was not always easy. Mike had great talent as a writer; was the student commander of his Air Force ROTC wing at George Washington University; had the talent to compete at a high level of baseball; and was a natural on-air talent. He would have been highly successful in any of these career options, but it was a great thing for all of us that he was able to find such a public voice with which to express his love for Clarksburg.








SUGGESTED SUBJECTS 
TO WRITE TO US ABOUT


A few readers wrote to suggest the following for you to think about and write and share some memories with us.

1: For the month of April perhaps readers will share their memories of events they attended at The Carmichael Auditorium in the good old days of Clarksburg. Some events to remember and share might be the B F Goodrich Tire men that played every Sunday afternoon in basketball season, Shriner Circus, Harlem Globetrotters, Wresting, Boxing, Carbon annual Picnic, and all the High School basketball games.
NOTE FROM: Roleta1@aol.com: I didn’t realize that all the high schools in the Clarksburg area played their home basketball games in the Carmichael. I must have led a sheltered life, I thought it was only used by WI? Do you remember differently? What schools played there? Write and tell me about the atmosphere there. Where did you get your ticket? Were there refreshments? Who sold them? I think there was a balcony but no seats up there? How did people get up there? Who went there? I never did. But weren’t there a lot of places back then that we girls just knew we should not go? Can you list some of them?

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

2: From: Catherine Custer Burke (WI 1952)

Be nice if people would share their memories about The First Methodist Church which burned in early September 1951. It was the night before I began my senior year in high school. I recall looking out my bedroom window on Waverly Way in Stealey and seeing the light from the fire. What do you remember about the fire?

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

Were YOU a MEMBER of the FIRST METHODIST CHURCH when it as destroyed by the big fire? Write and tell me some things we have been thinking about. Here did you have Sunday School Classes? Where did they hold the Sunday Services each Sunday? How long was did it take to rebuild the church? Who was the preacher? Was the replacement covered by insurance? Write and share your memories.

3: From: Jackie (Skinner) King (WI 1971)


I wish more people from early 1970’s classes would write in. I would love to read stories from people around my class time als0, but I love reading all of them. My brother who is 14 years older than me also went to WI in the late 1950’s (George Skinner). Thus, I can relate to all of the entries from graduates of those years also. Just like with music, I grew up loving and having an appreciation of Big Bands music due to the age of my parents. And I like music of the 50’s because of my brother. Then also the music of my age group! What kind of music and / or movies did you all like to listen to or watch? I personally loved the Big Band music, but then there was the Everly Brothers, Pat Boone, Frank Sinatra /then Three Dog Night, Grass Roots, Statler Brothers, Captain and Taneal, the Lettermen  and The Carpenters. And the movies & actors, I loved Jimmy Stewart, Frank Sinatra, Pat Boone, John Wayne, Henry Fonda, Robert Redford. I loved musicals and movies like Spencer’s Mountain, White Christmas, Calamity Jane, Oklahoma, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. The list could go on and on but I won’t bore you anymore but thought this might make for another good topic of discussion!

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


WRITE ABOUT ANY MEMORY

JUST WRITE, PLEASE.

It makes my job much easier and the newsletter much more interesting.









From: Elizabeth Teter Akin (WI 1956)

I always enjoy the newsletter and appreciate all the effort that you and your sister, not to mention Bill, put into it. However, in these past few months, it has reminded me forcefully how vulnerable my generation has become. I have lost some dear folks lately, as have others.
Bob Secret was my brother Bob’s best friend when they were in high school, and they, of course, remained friends for life. I remember being home from college, acting the big sister, taking those two young men out to dinner at O’Days. What fun to see, to be with those two young men in ties and sports jackets! I graduated from college the same year they graduated from WI.
Ronnie Shaw was a neighborhood boy, a year ahead of me in school. He taught my brother Bob how to ride a bike when Bob, at least five years younger than Ron, could hardly touch the peddles. Shaw persisted and their friendship continued into adulthood.
Jim Collins also grew up in our neighborhood, and after his father’s untimely death, my dad took him under wing for a while, taking him with us to Audra, to Pittsburgh, etc. Indeed, he was like a third brother to me. In fact, despite his being a year younger and then in grade 6, I took him to my first SubDeb dance in grade 7. For many years, even after his marriage and becoming a father, he would show up at our mother’s house on Christmas morning. I last saw him at a class reunion (mine, not his) where we danced one more time to Rock around the Clock, the tune we had taught ourselves to dance to in our living room.
Speaking of that SubDeb dance, Shaw was there too. Don’t remember who his date was. The dance was at Oral Lake. Shaw and Collins disappeared at some point, only to return with mud up to their knees. They had gone exploring and the lake had been drained for the winter. Needless to say, that was the end of the dancing that night!
I am enclosing a check for the Scholarship, in memory of Bob Secret, Jim Collins, and Ronnie Shaw. No quilt tickets, please.
P.S. Don Marple was wrong about where his younger siblings went to school after the family moved to Mulberry Ave. They went to Pierpont.
I have wonderful memories of the Marple family, including Aunt Jane.




From: Toni Sprouse Erchak (VHS 1957)

I am so sorry. I can hear the frustration in your words as you commit so much time and effort for the benefit of all who read this newsletter. The work you and Jalon do is appreciated, but I’m sure it would help if we showed that appreciation by contributing. Some of us are procrastinators, some of us are lazy and some of us feel our contribution might not be that interesting.
I found about 18 VHS Optic (Victory HS Newpaper) between 1954-57. I don’t remember reading most of them, so it's fun to look back and laugh. You may post a couple pages if you wish.
You asked about first boyfriends. The boy in this photo can’t be considered my first boyfriend, but he became my first “crush,” when I visited Northview School about age 12.
Jimmie Lee was friendly, but not at all interested in me. That didn’t stop me from squinting my eyes in every photo, trying to imitate his beautiful eyes. I just looked like I was in pain. 
Years later, he, Jim Villers, was my date for the senior prom. No, he still wasn’t interested in me, but his girlfriend, Judy, was from WI and my boyfriend, Punky, had already graduated. Since they were not allowed to attend, Jim asked me to go with him. We have kept in touch for 65 years. (See photo above of Jimmie Villers and West Virginia governor Mr. Cecil Underwood.)
Jim has a day job, but his real passion is making people laugh as a very funny Master of Ceremonies, Humorist and Charity Auctioneer.


From: Marolyn Tustin Jett (WI 1956)

Congrats to Bernie Cohen WI class 1956 on winning the Fearless Forecast Contest. Bernie has always been a supporter of the newsletter, the Win Scholarship, donations to the raffles and reunions/picnics and more, AND a member of my 1956 WI class that has always been well represented over the years.
The Central Junior HS basketball picture includes Bobby Jo Hart; Charles Collins (Bud); Bob Clousson; Ron Chartrand; Ed Westfall; and Jim Hutson (Doc).
The article written by Mr. Bates (WI 1951) re: Friday chapels spurred memories of a freshman and sitting in the balcony. Then as sophomores and juniors we were able to sit on main floor. Big Seniors were relegated to the center of the auditorium and it seemed so very large at that time. In answer I believe we called it Friday Assembly.
Last but not least I always enjoy Mike Snyder’s (Win1957) articles, no matter what the subject. He makes them so interesting and colorful. I particularly liked his memories of Freddy Dunham, (WI 1957). I could picture both of them back in that time frame in Stealey, students of WI and WVU and their escapades.
Still look forward to the newsletter each month, have been receiving it since its beginning. I used to contribute regularly but seemed to run out of time


From: Jean Wells Himmel (WI 1959)

Yeah, I finally have something to say based on the March newsletter! Sometimes I wonder where I was during my high school years - there is so much I don't recognize or remember.
1. The mystery building is (or was) the Masonic Temple, located on Pike Street between the Elks Lodge and the Jewish Synagogue. My dad was a Mason and I was a member of the Rainbow Girls for a couple of years. We met in that building.
2.On Dating: my first date was with Frank Bush, who was called Lee in Junior High. I was in Y Teens and asked him to go to the Sadie Hawkins Dance with me in 7th grade. We had many other dates during Junior High, movies, skating and parties. What a sweet guy! In high school, I dated Tom Brown and our weekly date was to the Moose Hall to dance. RIP Tom.
Thanks for all you have done over these past many years.
  

From: Hilda Logston Kerns (WI 1965)

I was so thrilled to see the post from David Andre concerning the foreign exchange student Goran who lived with his family in the 50s. Goran made quite an impression on some people in our Stealey neighborhood. I would have been 10 years old at the time. Josephine Haught Nerhood lived across the street from me on the corner of Alexander Ave. and Musgrave St. She would have been 13 years old at the time. We both had a horrible crush on Goran and cried when he left. We would walk up and down the alley behind the Andre house on Milford Street hoping to get a glance of him. He did stop by my house several years later when he was back visiting. I have thought of him through the years. Thank you, David Andre, for sharing the news on him. When you speak to Goran again, please give him my blessing. I don't know if he would remember me, but I remember him and you with happy childhood memories.


From: Cinda Frenzel O'Neill (WI 1966)

I believe the March mystery photo is the Masonic Hall/Temple on Pike Street. My dad and grandfathers were Masons, my mom and grandmother were in Eastern Star, my brother in DeMolay and I was a Rainbow girl. So, our family went to lots of meetings there. The Jewish Synagogue was next door, such a lovely building.


From: Arreta Radcliffe Jaranko (WI 1940)

It is a good thing I can type as my vision is so poor. You ask about names of places. Well, it was always "Angle End”.  I think probably the accent of West Virginians may be the problem. I never knew I had a "southern" accent until one time I was speaking to my family in Vermont and they said, “I never knew you had a southern accent" and that surprised me too. But they had lived in Vermont for 25 years at that time and had become accustomed to that Vermont speech. Anyway, I want to add “proud" to the list of word or phrases you hear down here. When I lived in Tennessee they had their way of saying things too. And one of them was "proud". Like Minnie Pearl of Grand Ole Opry would say: "I'm jest so proud to be hyar".When my son came home from Viet Nam one of my friends said "I'll bet you are proud to have him home" and I guess I looked like I did not understand that so she quickly said "you are glad he is home". To change the subject, we have 15 inches of snow on the ground.


From: Roger Young (WI 1972)

For many years I have known of this newsletter and have enjoyed excerpts from my mother initially and more recently via my siblings. I am long overdue requesting that I be included on the distribution list. I would appreciate receiving future issues.
Many thanks for all you do.


From: Hilda Logston (WI 1965)

You had a beautiful pic in a recent newsletter of the Robinson Grand Theater marque revealing a Bonnie McGowan dance recital. This recital in 1964 or 1965 was coined "Everything Is Coming Up Dancing". Bonnie taught dance to children of all ages, but she also had a chorus line of about 10 high school girls called the Bonnetts. Bonnie, who had this troupe for several years, had her chorus line perform at different functions around Clarksburg. Along with others, Linda Holden, Barbara Minehart and I from WI class of 1965 danced in this recital. Linda Holden reminded me that our chorus line sang the song "Everything Is Coming Up Dancing (Roses) with hand gestures then broke into the kicking line wearing beautiful costumes. So much fun. Wish I could kick like that now.
Thank you for the memories.
It is great the town of Clarksburg is restoring the Robinson Grand. So many people have great memories here, and now more memories to come.

  





From: Dorothy Ann Hughes Shaffer (WI 1952)

Roleta, you have a fantastic ministry with this newsletter. As we age, no doubt you see where we can tend to wonder if we are still making a difference in the world. For sure, you are making a difference in many, many lives. People may not respond the way you would like to see but the ability to connect and restore memories is providing a therapy for all who read it.
I'm sorry. I draw a blank when I try to think of something to contribute myself. Probably many others have this experience. But we love the newsletter. It is a work of art and allows us to connect with a past that is personal to us. It would no doubt be discouraging when you don't hear from anyone but I hope you guys hang in there until someone else feels the inspiration.  Seems it could win awards somewhere.
The February issue was just excellent. Not only providing memories but also the marvelous history regarding Bridgeport. Photography is so special as well. Guess I tend to repeat myself but it still holds. 

"THANKS"




REPLY FROM Roleta1@aol.com

Thank you for the sweet letter.

One thing as a note to you and many others who draw a blank on subjects to write about, here's a SUGGESTION:

Just comment on something you read in the newsletter. 

Comment on a memory of a sibling, a hobby, a job, a recipe, a party in Clarksburg, a date, a dance, a teacher, a friend, write about where you have been since graduation and what you have been doing! 

Write about one of the suggestions I list each month. 

The subjects are countless...


Now, I expect to hear back from you every month for the next year as the subjects are countless….



Thank you.








UNITED METHODIST TEMPLE
ON THE CORNER OF SYCAMORE AND LOCUST AVENUE CLARKSBURG, WV

110 YEARS AND STILL GOING STRONG


From: Libby Teter Akin and John Teter (WI 1956 and WI 1961)

Click here to read a great article about the Temple. 






Sports Editor: Bill Meredith





FOOTBALL IS BACK

By Bill Meredith

March Madness has just ended and the Major League Baseball season has just begun, but there is another college sport grabbing headlines across the country. College football is in the midst of spring practice, with West Virginia's spring game scheduled for April 7. Could this be the year the Mountaineers finally make a run at the Big 12 title?

The offense should be as good or better than last year, with the return of QB Will Grier and seven other starters. I've always felt that as the offensive line goes, so goes the team. The O-line only lost one starter and has another year of experience, so their performance is a key element to a successful season.

Usually, in the Big 12, if the defense can hold the opponent to under 30 points, there is a good chance of a victory. Doing that is no easy task. Together, Oklahoma and Oklahoma State scored 109 points on the Mountaineers last year. Tony Gibson's crew was young in 2017, so maybe a year of growth, both physically and mentally, will help solve some of the problems. In our pass-happy conference, I continue to think that the best pass defense is a strong pass rush. We haven't been able to do that recently, which is why I don't care for the 3-3-5 stack. However, that is the defense we'll be running, so we will have to live or die with the results.

The spring game will be the last major college event before the "Dog Days of Summer", so enjoy it while you can. Send you thoughts and comments on WVU football or any sports subject to me atbillmere@aol.com.


To Bill:

First of all - I'm Fred Maiocco, (WI 1955). I was one of those football players selected and participated in the E-W FB game along with other friends of mine from Clarksburg WV. Many of us also were selected and played in the Annual WV North-South Football Game held in Charleston WV that same summer. I want to 'Thank you' for posting this information in the WI Newsletter. The info, brochure, photos and players names that were part of the 1955 E-W Football Game was a surprise to me, as over the years I have misplaced that info. The names and photos help in 'Senior Moments'!
Recently, I have been emailing with Jim Alvaro who was a teammate with me at WIHS 1954 - 1955 time period; and, coincidentally we were discussing both games just this past week! You are correct as to what MV stood for, and to the best of my knowledge the E-W FB game was the 1st and last game played.
All these 'Senior' football players from the surrounding Clarksburg vicinity, selected for these games proved themselves as outstanding players during the past 1954 football season; and, periodically were identified by the local newspaper sports writers as to their accomplishments. They were a great bunch of guys; and, I was privileged to be among them.
See if you can dig up a similar packet for the N-S game, summer 1955. I and others would appreciate seeing a few more memories!
Again - Thanks for the write-up and info. God Bless.

Reply to Fred:

We did discuss the 1955 East-West All-Star Game a while back. I'm glad you enjoyed it. As I mentioned at the time, I remember it mainly because my high school coach, Jim Feltz, was the coach of one of the teams. I'm pretty sure you are correct that this game was played only one time.
Below is a picture of the North Team from the 1955 North-South Game played in Charleston. It is my understanding that several Clarksburg area players are pictured. I'm sure you can recognize many of them, but how many can our other readers name? Send your answers to billmere@aol.com.
Thanks for writing, Fred. I hope to hear from you again soon.

Bill (billmere@aol.com)







MARCH SPORTS MYSTERY PHOTO


From: Mary Sue Spahr (WI 1956)

I think the school is Central Junior High School. In the middle of the front row is Bud Collins. To his right as you look at the picture is Bob Clausson. The first person on the left in the front row is Bob Hart. The rest of the faces look familiar, but the names aren't coming to me. This was the beginning of a great team at WI in the years that followed.


From: John Harrison (WI 1956)

The picture appears to be the Central Jr. High School basketball team.
Those I recognize are #26, Bob Hart; Ron Chartran; ? ; Bud Collins with ball; Ed Westfall; #24 Bob Clousson. Next looks like Bob Griffith to me, but could possibly be Ed Church, ??; and finally, Paul Clayton far right.
Many of these fellows are no longer with us, but each one played a significant role in our athletic history.
Will send this and hope it gets to you. Thanks again for all your dedicated work on this newsletter.


From: Jim Strider (WI 1955)

From left to right I believe they are Bob Hart; Ron Chartrand; ?; ?; Bud Collins; Ed Westfall; Bob Clousson; Buck Tustin; ?; Possibly Jim Hutson.
Obviously, it is Central Jr High School. I believe Hart, Chartrand, Westfall and Clousson are no longer with us.


From: Augie Malfregot (WI 1955)

Bob Hart, deceased Front Left, Bud Collins, Center /Villages Central Florida
Bob Clousson, deceased
Ron Chartrand, Back Left, deceased; Center Ed Westfall, deceased
Right corner Jim Hudson, Eastern Virginia close to DC
All six players at Central Junior High


From: Bob Teter (WI 1960)

My guess would be Central Junior High School. Some of the players I think I recognize are Ted Waroblack? Ed Wilfong, Bob Claussen, Bucky Tustin, Eddie Christie? I would think Bucky Tustin can name them all!
Again, many thanks for all you do to get this newsletter out. Outstanding job!






HOT ROD


To quote the advertisement in Metro News Sports, "Hot Rod" is a documentary chronicling the flamboyance of basketball great Rod Hundley, an unforgettable player and broadcaster who used the game to achieve heights no one could imagine". The film, which aired April 3 on AT&T Sportsnet-Pittsburgh, covers the career of one of WVU's all-time great basketball players. Did you ever see him play at the old Field House? Do you have any special memory you can share? Some people think he was the best to ever wear the Old Gold & Blue. Do you agree?

Send your comments to me at billmere@aol.com.






THERE'S ALWAYS NEXT YEAR


As we all know, the 2017-18 WVU basketball season ended in Boston in a Sweet 16 game against Villanova. Are you satisfied with the season? The usual mark of a good and well-coached team is continued improvement during the season. Did the Mountaineers show the progress you expected? How do you rate the job Bob Huggins did with this group?

Looking to the future, even though Jevon Carter and Daxter Miles will be gone, the 2018-19 edition should be interesting to watch. D'Angelo Hunter has left the team and will transfer. Expect more movement in the roster. Four new names are expected to help fill the holes left by the seniors, including Trey Doomes, Derek Culver, Andrew Gordon and Jordan McCabe. If McCabe can come close to performing as well as he has in highlight films from his High school and AAU games, we are all in for a treat. However, it's a long way from high school to the Big 12, so we'll just have to wait and see how it comes down.

Send your thoughts on this or next season to billmere@aol.com.







MEETING FAMOUS PEOPLE

From: Jackie (Skinner) King (WI 1971)

I enjoy your newsletter so much.
Thank you for taking us back and helping us to remember our Youth!

1.  As for meeting famous people: My dad was the editor of the magazine for Consolidated Natural (Hope) Gas. With this position he would get to go interview people for articles he wrote and my mom and I would go with him sometimes. My two most favorite trips were actually both to Washington DC. The first interview and famous West Virginian I met was Sam Huff. He played for WVU and then for the Washington Redskins. We went to his lovely home for the interview and he was such a warm and friendly person. I also remember that his living room was decorated in almost all white with lots of pictures and trophies in it including a picture of him with President Kennedy. He also had a beautiful Sheltie dog!
2.  The other person I felt very honored to meet was Colonel Ralph Albertazzie, presidential pilot for President Nixon. He also at various times flew President Kennedy and President Johnson prior to their presidencies. Besides being such a wonderful kind person (he was from Morgantown). At the age of 13 was blessed to be given a tour of Air Force One by Colonel Albertazzie. I had my picture made at the top of the steps next to the Presidential Seal where the president’s pictures are made as they arrive at their destinations (really cool). I was then invited inside and shown around. I was taken on a tour of the president’s office. My how things have changed. We all know that would not happen this day and time!
3.   Last but not least was Jay Rockefeller. Mr. Rockefeller became president of WV Wesleyan College while I was there. He and his wife Sharon were wonderful people and I was blessed to also care for their children while attending WVWC
Thanks again for the memories!!!




From: Fred Alvaro (WI 1959)

Met famous "Wonder Woman" at the party during the Lynda Carter Maybelline Ladies Tennis classic at Boca Raton, Fl. in early 1980's. I tell my male friends here in The Villages, that I was with her at the Beverly Hilton, Beverly Hills Ca. (a joke of course)


Note from Editor: Have you met someone famous? Someone who we all know (but don't really know personally)



Thank you.






 PRIZED WEST VIRGINIA MADE ITEMS


What is your prized item that you own that was made in WV?

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


Here is one from Sandra Zickefoose Lindke (WI 1956)

I have a small collection of Fenton Glass that was manufactured at Williamstown, WV. Quite a few of the pieces are signed by the artists of WV.



  


WHO IS THIS PERSON?



Who is this person? Hint He graduated from WI.

What is he pushing? What is he doing?

What state does he live in now?

Tell us what you know about him.



Thank you.







WERE YOU IN THE MARCHING BAND?


From: Jackie (Skinner) King (WI 1971)

You were also talking about the Band Festival. What great memories those were, I was never in the band myself but had many friends in the band including one of my best friends who was featured twirler and then drum major--Danny Marsh. What was fun about the band festival was that there were so many bands from all over the state that came to participate and all of those out of town band members needed a place to stay while they were in Clarksburg. Families in the area including my wonderful parents would open their homes and have one or many out of town kids stay in their homes for the week. This was a wonderful way to be involved and to make some lasting friendships. One girl that stayed with us was from Hurricane, WV. We actually visited each other for weekends thru out high school and ended up going to college together. Even after I was out of high school I was attending WV Wesleyan College and working with a youth group at a local Methodist Church, 4 members of my youth group were in the Buckhannon/Upsher Band and they stayed at my home with my parents during the band festival.


EDITOR'S NOTE: Do you have memories about Band Festivals or marching in parades? Or playing for different occasions?

Write to Roleta1@aol.com

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

Thank you.


From Bob Hall (WI 1956)

Thanks for all you do for the readers of the WI Newsletter.
I was in the band at Central Jr and WI. Marched in many parades including the long ones in Huntington. Had to cut finger tips out of gloves so fingers covered holes in clarinet. (Rough in frigid weather). The picture in March issue may have been WI because of white buck shoes and those crazy hats with yellow plumes. I don't recognize any faces in the picture but that was probably taken on Main St. in front of the Arcade bldg.
See below a picture of my brother in 9th grade and me in 8th grade in Central Jr. uniform. I don't remember any parades while in Jr. High.




I recognize a few in the mystery sports picture. I would assume it was Central Jr. HS in 1950-51. #26 Bob Hart, #2? Ron Chartran, #23 Ed Westfall, #24 Bob Cloussen?sp, #28 Bob Griffith? One looks like a Hudson.I know Hart, Cloussen, and Griffith are deceased. Probably others also.
I'm glad you're going to have one more picnic. Will try to get to this one.


From: Sandy Zickefoose Lindke (WI 1956)

I can remember early morning practices in the mist or fog at Hites Field and then climbing the steep path to Chestnut Street on our way to school. I was a majorette and marched on the right end of the line. I can remember Mr. Mayor telling us that our lines went from curb to curb. At the Huntington Band Festival Parade my socks worked down into the toes of my boots and I had terrible blisters. I was not about to quit marching because I did not want to get yelled at by Henry Mayor. My favorite part of a parade was marching to just the drum beat on our way down the hill from the school to the parade route. No one made a sound except for our feet on the pavement and the soft drums.
We grew up in the best of times.


EDITOR'S NOTE: Were you a drummer in high school? What type of drum did you play? Do you remember the parades? Was it hard to learn to carry a drum and march ad keep playing all at the same time? Did you take private lessons to learn to play the drum? Write to us about playing the drums in your high school band.

Write to Roleta1@aol.com

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

Thank you.


From: John Campbell (WI 1959)

I was in the band at WI. I remember Hite Field vividly. The Worst thing, in my mind, was a half time show on the field with low cloud, fog situation that caused the band sound to reflect back ad make it seem “Offbeat”, and maybe it was. Henry Mayer did not direct the band when marching on the field. Today, bands have a director or directors leading them during half time shows, thus avoiding variations from one side to the other.







MYSTERY BAND PICTURE


From: James (Jim) Selario (WI 1967)

This picture was obviously taken in Clarksburg. The Arcade is clearly visible in the picture. It would have had to have been taken in 1957 or earlier as the Arcade was destroyed by fire in 1957. I do not know what band is marching nor do I know anybody in the picture. Aarons Shoes is clearly visible in the front part of the Arcade. As an adult I had the pleasure of getting to know Mr. Aaron personally. He was the next-door neighbor of my wife's family on Mulberry Avenue in Clarksburg. He was a fine person and truly a gentleman in every way. The Oak Hall Building with its apartments is located to the west of the Arcade. Although not visible in the picture, Anderson's Restaurant was in that building. It had the reputation of being one of the finest restaurants in the state of WV. I never had the opportunity to eat there however. That is about all that I can tell you about the picture.


From: Ann Brannon Pushkin (WI 1952)

The picture was taken in Clarksburg, WV on Main Street in front of the Arcade that connected Main Street with the parallel street above Main Street (don't remember the name of the upper street). I had to walk through the Arcade about 4 times every school day from my home to WI (no school bus for me and my sisters and many other students). In fact, many students rode the "city" bus to and from their home to attend WI.
Yes, I was the world's worst clarinet player in the WI band. But, I would not give up being a member of the band. Director Hank Mayor knew I was not performing in the manner I should have been but he let me continue to pretend I could play the clarinet.
The six young majorettes leading the WI marching band would have graduated from WI in 1951 and 1952. I knew all of them quite well but can remember the names of only four of them. Using the list below the names of the majorettes from left to right in the picture:
First: I don’t remember?
Second: Sue Brannon 1951 (was married to H. K. Flesher – a 1950 graduate of WI); Sue died 12/14/2015)
Third: I don’t remember
Fourth: June Skidmore 1952 (married to Theodore Yates – a 1949 graduate of WI)
Fifth: Barbara Antoine 1952 (married to “Punky” Claude Gilbert Goodwin a 1952 graduate of WI)
Sixth: Elizabeth Braham 1952 (married to Guy Wright a 1950 graduate of WI).
The picture was taken in Clarksburg, WV on Main Street in front of the Arcade that connected Main Street with the parallel street above Main Street (don't remember the name of the upper street). I had to walk through the Arcade about 4 times every school day from my home to WI (no school bus for me and my sisters and many other students). In fact, many students rode the "city" bus to and from their home to attend WI.
YES! CORRECT!

1952 WI HILLTOPPERS MARCHING BAND









JUDY ASPY PAYNE

Mrs. Judith Anne Aspy Payne, 76, a resident of Thomasville, formerly of Clarksburg, West Virginia, passed away Monday, March 5, 2018 in Moses Cone Memorial Hospital in Greensboro. She was born in Alleghany County, Pennsylvania to the late Arthur and Freda Aspy on January 10, 1942. On August 24, 1962 she married James “Jim” Lewis Payne. Mrs. Payne earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Education from West Virginia University in 1963. She taught in St. Albans, West Virginia at various schools. After moving to Thomasville, she and her husband, Jim, operated The James L. Payne CPA Accounting Firm where she was the office manager for 25 years. She was also known for being the “Cheeseball Lady” of Thomasville. Mrs. Payne enjoyed reading, crossword puzzles, and had a love for history, specifically British History. She loved people, and never met a stranger. Mrs. Payne was a member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Thomasville. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a son, James Bradley Payne. Mrs. Payne is survived by her loving husband, of 55 years, James “Jim” Lewis Payne, who survives of the home; a daughter, Suzanne Lynn Payne of London, England; a sister, Joyce Molloy of Ft. Lauderdale, FL; sisters-in-law, Janet Tipton and husband Don of Chester, VA and Judy Carrington of Louisville, KY; several nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held Wednesday, April 11, 2018 at 3:00 PM in the J.C. Green and Sons Chapel in Thomasville with the Rev. Amanda Stephenson officiating. The family will greet friends immediately after the service. In lieu of flowers, please direct memorials to St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in High Point, 108 W. Farriss Ave. High Point, NC 27262. Online condolences can be made to the Payne family at www.jcgreenandsons.com.


GAIL COLLEEN RICHARDS

Gail Colleen Richards, 77, of Clarksburg, WV, passed away Thursday, February 28, 2018.
She was the daughter of the late Ernest Ryan and Ada Mae Harbert, both of Clarksburg.
She was born November 12, 1940, in Clarksburg. Gail is survived by her husband of 60 years, Junior Marion Richards, and five children, Keith (Tammy), Joel “JP” (Chis) Richards, Suzanne “Suzie” (Kevin) Robinson, Joretta (Dan) Hayhurst Brown, and son-in-law Mark Hines; as well as numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her two brothers, Joel Ryan and James “Jr.” Harbert Sr. and his wife Paula. She also had many brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, as well as several nephews and nieces.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her daughter, Erin Colleen Hines, and grandson, Trey Hayhurst.
Gail worked as a bus aide for the Harrison County Board of Education and was a member of the Upper Room Church in Clarksburg. She was a 1958 graduate of RWHS, where she was Drum Majorette for the school band.


TERRY LEE GAINES

Terry Lee Gaines, 53, of Clarksburg, WV, March 16, 2018, at the Louis A. Johnson VA Medical Center in Clarksburg.
Mr. Gaines was born in Clarksburg on September 23, 1964, a son of Juanita R. (Spurr) Gaines of Clarksburg and the late Robert S. Gaines.
Terry is survived by three stepchildren, Justin Fitch, Dane Fitch and Brittany Gerwig; one brother and three sisters, Timothy (Gerri) Gaines, Kathyrn Gaines, Debora (John) Carroll and Denise (Daid) Christofer; as well as 12 grandchildren and one on the way. Also surviving are several nieces and nephews.
Mr. Gaines was a graduate of Liberty High School and served his country in the United States Marines. He was a carpenter by trade and a member of the NRA


IRMA YONOVAK WILLIAMS

Mrs. Williams is survived by her children, Sandra Williams (Joe) Martin, Gary (Cynthia), Monica Williams (Mark) Audia, and Jimmy (Jill) Williams; and her grandchildren.
Mrs. Williams was the last surviving member of her immediate family, also having been preceded in death by her sisters, Lena Jonzak, Helen Yonovak, and her brothers, Jim Yonovak, Vendal Yonovak, Tony Yonovak and Stanley Yonovak.
Irma attended Washington Irving High School, and formerly worked at the Sanitary Meat Market and Hazel Atlas Glass Factory. She was a member of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church and formerly a member of the Holy Rosary Catholic Church. She was also a member of the Catholic Daughters, Holy Rosary Society and the Senior Citizens Center.


JAMES “BILL” POST

James “Bill” Post, age 75 of Salem, WV passed away March 10, 2018 at his residence. He was born January 25, 1943 in Clarksburg, WV; the son of the late William Post and Daisy (Arnett) Post. Bill is survived by his wife, Marion Post; two sons, James W. (Lori) Post and Shane Post & his companion, Serena; four granddaughters, Katie, Meredith, Natalie and Ryle Post; two sisters, Jean Watson of Perryopolis, PA and Janet (David) Hodges.
Bill worked 35 years at LTV Steel in Cleveland, Ohio as a supervisor in the coke plant. He was a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles in Clarksburg.


DAVIS KEITH (D.K.) ROACH, JR.

Davis Keith (D.K.) Roach Jr., 73, passed away March 17, 2018, at WVU Heart Institute in Morgantown.
D.K. was born in Clarksburg on December 5, 1944, a son of the late Davis Keith and Elizabeth (Merrifield) Roach.
He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Terry (Hinesh) Roach.
He a long-time member of Shriners International, Clarksburg Scottish Rite and Hermon Lodge No. 6.
He retired after 40 years of service with Sheet Metal Worker No. 33. Many special and caring friends were made over the years.
D.K. graduated from W.I. High School in 1962 and W.Va. Business College in 1964.
His favorite enjoyment was watching a fast-paced NASCAR race. He could always find a favorite driver to follow.
A special thanks to the entire staff at Fresenius Dialysis. During his six years of treatments, he was not only treated as a patient, but a very close friend.
He donated his body to WVU Gift Registry for education and research. He’ll be cremated and returned to his family.



CAROLYN TUSTIN VITOLO

Carolyn Jean Vitolo, age 83 of Melbourne, Fla passed away on Wednesday, March 14, 2018 at her residence in Florida. She was born December 31, 1934 in Lima, WV; the daughter of the late Carl Tustin and Day (Brohard) Tustin.
A graveside service will be held at Bridgeport Cemetery at a later date.
Davis Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements


BROOKS GAINER

Dr. Brooks Gainer, of Morgantown, died Thursday, March 29, 2018, in Ruby Memorial Hospital.
A memorial service to celebrate Brooks’ life will be held at a later date; more information and details will be forthcoming.
Arrangements are being handled by Hastings Funeral Home.