Editor: Roleta Smith Meredith
Publisher: Jalon Smith Burton
WHAT? WHAT?
What did you
say?
From: Roleta1@aol.com
I have heard from many
people over the years who say, I look over the newsletter but I don’t see
anyone from my class mentioned! I have heard this from people from the 40’s,
lots surprisingly from the 50’s and the 60’s and even a few from the 70’s!!! Well,
remember, I don’t write the articles! It is up to you and your classmates to
write to me.
We all have the same
experiences, there may be 10 to 20 years difference in our ages but the school,
your friends, most of the teachers, the town, etc. NOT MANY MEMORIES HAVE
CHNAGED! We all have the same memories just the cast of players are different.
This is the only
newsletter of it’s kind out there. Your support is important to keep this
newsletter alive. Your PARICIPATATION is important.
Write to
Roleta1@aol.com
When emailing me, please include your name, school and
year you did or would have graduated.
Thank you.
A TRIP
THROUGH
THE
NEWSLETTER FILES
IS A TRIP
DOWN MEMORY-LANE
From: Ken Menendez (Victory 1958)
Really enjoyed the June newsletter. I found the sections on WI students by
years and the WWII vets exciting. With students, I found names of guys and
girls I knew around 1956-58 from dances at Moose Lodge (believe the dance was
on Thursday night), hanging out in the old Stonewall Billiards, Hagan’s, Ellis
Drive-In (curb service), Hammond-Harper restaurant and just hanging out.
For WWII vets, that was a trip down memory lane. Counted 5 Clarksburg
cops, number of Harrison County politicians and a number of business owners or
executives. Believe I recognized one name, who was killed in action, as I
remember my mother had mentioned. My mother graduated from Victory in 1934 and
had many WI friends. After her death years ago, I found a WI yearbook from that
era with friend’s names.
Last night I was going through the Newsletter again looking over names.
Lots of memories with a number of guys that I ran around with, and a couple of
girls I had dates with.
Then the section by Tim Cork of pictures of Clarksburg years ago. Lots of
pictures I have never seen before.
Great newsletter. I appreciate your work and efforts. Too bad Victory and
RW never developed a newsletter.
EDITOR’S NOTE:
I really enjoyed this letter from Ken.
ALL PEOPLE are welcome to read and
to WRITE to this newsletter.
We enjoy reading memories from RW and VICTORY
alumni. All of our memories are basically the same. The years changed but the
activities, the school, the teachers and the town certainly didn’t change much
during our lifetimes. One who graduated in 1940 could share a memory and a
graduate from another school from 10 to 20 years later could share a memory and
you basically wouldn’t see much difference. That is what makes this newsletter
unique and popular throughout the county and even over the border.
Please write and share some memories with us no matter where you graduated.
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 Teter (WI 1961)
I can remember going to the carnival in Bridgeport behind the firehouse
and the carnival at Norwood Park. I remember one time going to the one in
Bridgeport directly from one of my Little League baseball games; riding the Ferris
wheel; and having my baseball cap fly off into the night. I do not remember if
we ever found that hat, but we must have as I do not remember getting a second
one and/or playing in a baseball game without a hat. I remember my dad was big
on us playing the "flip this coin" games, and I still have some of
the drinking glasses that we were able to get the coin to stay in. I also
remember winning some of the stuffed animals and prizes that were given out for
"popping the balloon" or "knocking over some figure". Those
were the days.
I remember taking my son to the carnival in Reston, Va. when he was young
and somehow the carnival seemed to have lost the "magic touch", as it
was not as much fun as it was back in W.Va. It might have something to do with
my being older and having NO INTEREST IN RIDING RIDES. We did get on the
tilt-a-wheel ride, and the only thing that kept me from having a heart attack
was my son quit breathing. He was fine after a short visit to the emergency
room at the hospital, but if it had not have been for his having a reaction to
the ride, I probably would have had a heart attack. I have taken my grandson to
a few carnivals here in the Alexandria, Va. area and the time spent at the
carnival was much shorter than when I was going in W.Va. as with the cost of
things, it just got out of hand financially.
From: Don Sager (Alta Vista,
CJHS, WI 1956, WVU 1964)
I loved the Carnivals that used to come in the summer-time to Norwood
Park.
Seems like there were 2 or 3 a year. I lived next door to Chief Sheriff’s
Deputy Criss and my Uncle was the Desk Sgt. on the Police Force. They always
had free tickets that they shared with the kids. The tickets were in long
strips or booklets of 10 or 20 which I remember using on School Patrol Day.
Rides were ½ price that Saturday. I believe the rides were regularly 10 cents.
My father used to take me in the evening after work before I was old
enough
to go alone. He won a red portable Crosley Radio one time playing one of the
games. I had the radio for years and used to run an extension cord out to our
glider on the porch to listen to Baseball broadcasts with Dizzy Dean in the
summer afternoons.
My favorite pal to go to the Carnivals with was Steve Limbers. Seems like
his father would drop us off at the gate. As I grew older, the Broad Oaks guys would
walk out Haymond Hwy. and hitch-hike or walk thru Arbutus Park to check out all
the beauties on the way. I’m not sure which ride was my favorite.
Maybe the Bumper Cars. I do remember the Loop-D-Loop which ALWAYS emptied
your pockets of everything. Not sure about a Tunnel of Love existing then but I
do remember a few kisses under the cover on the Caterpillar. The Ferris Wheel
was my scariest ride ever. I never trusted the flimsy wooden bar in front of
the seat. I have always loved amusement parks. Spent a great deal of time at
various Six Flags as an adult always riding in the front car of the Coasters.
Of course, then, we could never have dreamed of the Roller Coasters and
Amusement Rides of the last 40 years. One other memory—seemed like it ALWAYS
rained and we were tromping around in mud covered with straw.
From: Jim Alvaro
(Alta Vista, Central Jr., and WI 1956)
I remember the Norwood Park
Carnival. What I recall most was how we got there. We lived in
"Lower" Broad Oaks at the time. Dad would walk us up Haymond Hwy to
Buckhannon Pike. We crossed Buckhannon Pike and walked a small path down to
Arbutus Park. From Arbutus Park we walked through Nixon Plaza, Nutter Fort, to
the Park in Norwood. Once we got there we walked through the carnival and rode
the rides. When I got a little older I would stop where the carnival dishes
were. I would pitch dimes and win dishes. I was really good at pitching dimes.
I knew just where to place the dimes on the plates. I won several plates every
time we went. Mom liked the plates. She made me feel like I was really helping
support the family. I think we always stayed till closing. Then we reversed the
route back home.
Thinking about the route we
took to reach the carnival had me wondering, where are the boundaries of these
small areas. Maybe someone could tell us where the boundaries are of the
following:
Heflin Heights, Arbutus Park,
Nixon Plaza, Nutter Fort, Norwood, and Stonewood. I think all those are within approximately
a mile.
Another note: It seemed kids in
Arbutus Park went to Alta Vista, Central Jr High, and WI while they were in
walking distances to RW. Can anyone explain that?? I am happy that they did go
to those schools because I have some great friends from Arbutus Park.
PLEASE HELP US BY WRITING YOUR BEST ANSWERS
TO THESE QUESTIONS.
TO THESE QUESTIONS.
Email us at Roleta1@aol.com
When emailing me, please include your name, school and
year you did or would have graduated.
Thank you.
TELEPHONE MEMORIES
From: Jim Alvaro (WI 1956)
We had a two-party line, where
some had 3 and 4 party lines. I know we were on the 2 -party line with the
Paul's who lived just up the street from us. I remember mom picking up the
phone and asking Ruthie Paul how long she would be on the line and Ruthie would
do same to us. It seemed to work out okay. I don't remember anyone arguing
about the amount of time the other person was on the line. That was just a way
of life back then and we accepted it. I remember our phone # was 231-J and my
best friend, Jack Borror's # was 5150-W. I'll never forget those numbers.
I remember when I was in
college and switchboard operators were being used. My girlfriend Sonja, later
to be my wife, was a switchboard operator. If I got a call that was handled by
one of her switchboard operator friends, they would yell down the line,
"Hey Sonja, Jim's getting a call from a woman and doesn't sound like his
mom."
Well, that's another article
for a future newsletter. Maybe!
Note:
As usual, another great newsletter Roleta, Jalon, and Bill.
NEW:
Emma
Lee Hite (WI 1960) Emma.lee1942@gmail.com
Anne Parsons Talkington (WI 1966) atalkin107@aol.com
Kathy Carter Garrett Thompson Fox Kiger
(WI 1968) lakfox@icloud.com
Graduated with name Carter adopted with
Garrett and married 3 times.
Michael Lambiotte (WI 1967) michaelsambiotte@gmail.com
Ken Menendez (Victory 1958) kmenendez@kc.rr.com
Nancy Gaskin Linn (Victory 1954) anancylinn@cox.net
Sandra Griffin Thompson (RW 1957) sandythompson5135@gmail.com
Janice Waller Metzgar (WI 1968) jmetzgar801@hotmail.com
CORRECTION:
Boyd Warner (WI 1958) BoydLWarner@aol.com
Note in the June issue I had his name as Waner and his email also.
There is an R in his name.
There is an R in his name.
From: Nancy Swing (WI
1961)
Another great job, as
usual. I have to say, though, that I like contemporary news as much as
memories. It's good to know that we're still alive and kicking!
Warm regards, Nancy
To Nancy:
What a great compliment.
Thank you.
And by the way, if anyone has not yet read the mystery “Child’sPlay” written by Nancy Swing, I highly recommend it. You will smile every time some name or place sounds familiar to you.
And by the way, if anyone has not yet read the mystery “Child’sPlay” written by Nancy Swing, I highly recommend it. You will smile every time some name or place sounds familiar to you.
Thanks, Roleta1@aol.com
From: Mary Beth Jeranko
Hilburm (WI 1955)
Mary Stump Harrel wrote
about my mother Sandy Jeranko, who loved the idiomatic expressions of the
people at Cape Hatteras, N.C. She taught English on the Outer Banks for many
years, publishing with her students, a magazine called the Sea Chest. Students
would interview members of the community about skills such as net making, fish
drying, boat repairs, and publish the magazine 3-4 times a year. She won
national awards for them, and I promise to dig them out and share some of the
lore at a later time. Right now, I am on the Big Island, and our air quality is
not good today, nor is it expected to be tomorrow. We are under a vog cloud
from the eruption of Halemaumau volcano. I’m not in danger, it’s more like
being near a freeway, but I am used to my wonderful clean air. It was great to
hear from Mary, and from my aunt Arreta, very special women to me.
From: Anita Bartlett White (WI
1948)
Was so
sorry to read of Marianna's death. My memories of Marianna go back prior to
Stealey. In fact. I was able to catch with her through the WI Newsletter. We
e-mailed for several weeks. She brought me up to date on her life, and also
Ted. Tim was to be the next chapter. This never arrived, and now I know why.
They lived on Harrison Street in Broad Oaks, and our back yards joined,
when Marianna and Teddy were "little people". My mother used to
baby-sit them a lot. They called her Pop-Pop which Marianna remembered. Their
Mother was Eleanor Cummings, a family friend long before she became a Waroblak.
I used to visit them after they moved to Stealey Ave. (323), I think. Do not
know how old they were when they moved. Awesome to be able to catch up with old
friends through the Newsletter. You do a great job, just wish more people who
were at WI when I was there would write in information. Thanks for all you do.
Condolences to Marianna's family.
EDITOR’S NOTE:
To Anita White (and all our readers):
Perhaps if you will write more often, people who know you will respond. We don’t have many from the classes of the 1940’s who write. And they all say the same thing you do.
Perhaps if you will write more often, people who know you will respond. We don’t have many from the classes of the 1940’s who write. And they all say the same thing you do.
Fact: The one complaint
I hear over and over again and again is, “I wish more from my class years would
write”. Well, if each of you would tell others to write, perhaps some will.
I don’t seem to be able to get people to respond very well anymore. It is
my hardest job and I have been doing it so long, I think I need someone else to
beg for a while.
From: Ray Allen (WI 1959)
I really enjoy the newsletter each month. How you continue to produce a
quality piece in both content and presentation is beyond me.
I spent 32 years in the corporate world, and this newsletter is equal to
or better than anything I saw in that environment.
EDITOR’S NOTE:
Thank you, Ray for the
nice letter. This gives me an opportunity to introduce those who help make this
newsletter possible each month. I owe so much to the readers who respond each
month and make the content so interesting, I could never write all these
memories.
My thanks to Bill, my husband, who for the last so
many years has taken on the SPORTS section. I will admit, I don’t know much
about sports and it is one of his favorite subjects. Thank you, Bill
The wizard behind the
layout and design is my sister, Jalon
Smith Burton. She is so kind to publish this each month for me, and for
you.
Jalon was born in
Clarksburg but our family moved to Ohio before she even started school.
When
Judy Daugherty Kimler died, I was so scared, I had no idea how I was going to get
the newsletter all done and on line for people to enjoy. My sister came up with the solution.
My daughter, Vaneta, set up my Google account and reserved the Google blogspot address
for the newsletter but I still had no idea how to use it. Jalon has her own blog on
blogspot, so she said she would help me each month. She knew how to create the web page layout and format the site. She has been a blessing to me.
Every month, she formats, edits, designs, illustrates and uploads the current newsletter issue, (as well as all those additional pages located at the top of the newsletter). I don’t think she knew what she was getting into but God Bless her, she has stuck with me.
Every month, she formats, edits, designs, illustrates and uploads the current newsletter issue, (as well as all those additional pages located at the top of the newsletter). I don’t think she knew what she was getting into but God Bless her, she has stuck with me.
Please take a minute and
visit her lifestyle and design blog (no cookies or spam is associated with her
site, so you may visit with confidence and safety). Read the articles and share
her blog with your friends. Her advertisers love to see the increase in activity over there and I know that really helps her.
I also want to thank Tim Cork (WI
1962) who has done such marvelous things by adding historical files to the
newsletter, check them out under the Page Tabs at the top of the newsletter.
Ken Menendez (Victory 1958) wrote
a letter about these marvelous files that are here each month for your reading
pleasure (see the beginning of this month's issue). I use these sections regularly. Last month, Dave Kuhl (WI 1962) wrote a letter
explaining exactly how to navigate through these wonderful files. I hope you take a look at his letter too and try it all out.
You will be amazed at what Tim Cork has uncovered about WI, filed and shared it with you through the WI Newsletter.
Lastly, a big thank you to the 9 wonderful people who help me each month
by sending out the email notifications announcing our newest issue has been published.
Their help is greatly appreciated.
From: Ronald
(Ron) Harvey (WI 1955)
I attended a Summer Camp
in 1956. This was a co-ed church camp run by the Potomac District Council of
the Assemblies of God. The camp at Falling Waters, WV. I don't remember
everything that happened at the camp, but I do remember being introduced by
Mickey Drummond (WI 1960) and Joanne Drummond (WI 1958) to a girl from
Smithfield, VA. Her name was Anne Jones. This being a strictly disciplined
camp, we crossed our arms to hide the holding of our hands during gatherings.
However, before we left camp, we had our picture taken together, which is shown
below. Yes, we were caught doing such a thing and Anne was told to throw the
film away. With strong resistance on her part, she kept the film. This summer
camp story continues by Anne and I being married 58+ years. Can summer camps
have a good ending? Mine did.
Tell us about your summer
camp. Did you have a camp romance?
Write to Roleta1@aol.com
When emailing me, please include your name, school and
year you did or would have graduated.
Thank you.
From: Mary Liz Custer
Carder (WI 1954)
I was going through boxes
in the basement preparing for a big move from Colorado to Texas when I found
some wonderful photographs to share with your readers. Spelling of some of the
names may not be correct and unfortunately, my yearbooks are already packed.
The first one is taken in
front of our daily communication chalk board in the second-floor hallway of WI.
From the names of the junior stationary salesmen, the date was October 13, 1953.
I am the girl holding her books on the right side of the photo. The boy in the
center reading the sign might be John Allen.
The next photo is loading
the buses to go to a football away game. The teacher at the left is Rene Andre.
The only others I recognize are Eleanor Queen third from the left waiting in
line and the cheerleader at the door who is most likely Toby Singleton. The
year is probably 1953.
The third one is not of
WI but the Harrison County Girl Scout staff as well as the camp permanent staff
at Camp Horseshoe the summer of 1953. Many of the newsletter readers will have
fond memories of Camp Horseshoe. Attending Girl scout camp there for a week was
the highlight of my summers for many years as a camper and counselor in
training (CIT). I will attempt to identify as many as I can and perhaps your
readers can fill in the rest. The first person sitting in the front row is
Niche Bisping (WI 1952). In the second row are Loretta Lawson, ? from
Shinnston, Patty Wehner, Sue Selby (WI 1955), Bea Fittro (Scout camp director), Mrs. Bisping,
Mrs."Wiggle"s Weekly, Mrs. Ferbee (head of the Harrison County Scout
program). Third row, fourth person in is Joan Johnson (WI 1955), Sally Ore (WI
'55), ? , ? , ?, Frances Custer (my mother). Fourth from the right is Babe
Bisping (WI 1956), Gerry Ramp (Bridgeport H.S.,1954).
In the top row are
Roberta Brasine (WI 1956), Mary Elizabeth Custer (me, WI 1954), ? , Luanne Furbee
(WI 1955), ? , Nancy Harper (WI 1954).
Can you fill in some
blanks? Do you have any memories of this camp?
Write to Roleta1@aol.com
When emailing me, please include your name, school and
year you did or would have graduated.
Thank you.
Many of your readers will
remember going out on dates to dance and have fun at our Clarksburg "night
clubs" in the fifties. These happy couples were enjoying a New Year’s Eve party
in 1954 or 1955. I think the gentleman at the left is Dave Saucer. His date is
Sandy Conaway (WI 54). Next to her, is Lynn Custer, my cousin (WI 1954). I
don't recognize who she was with that night but I am pretty sure I was there
too.
JUNE MYSTERY PEOPLE
From: Dorothy Ann Hughes
Shaffer (WI 1952)
The June Mystery People
in the current newsletter are friends from the WI Class of 1952. Carolyn Tustin
is on the left, Bernie King on the right, and I am in the middle. I well
remember the picture being taken. We wanted to put our arms around each other
only Bernie couldn't reach me. So, I had sort of squatted down so we could
reach each other but I couldn't hold the pose for long. At any rate, we were
having a fun time.
I seem to recall that
Eddie Westfall was taking the picture. He had been walking by and we recruited
him. Unfortunately, I can't verify this as Carolyn and Bernie are both
deceased. I did run into Carolyn when she was visiting her mother in Clarksburg
I think about 20 years ago and we had a wonderful visit. I kept up better with
Bernie over the years and have planned to be at her memorial service which is
next week. Of the three, I am still very much among the living. It was a fun
thing to run into this picture in the Newsletter. Boy, it does bring back the
memories!
I usually block out time
to go through the Newsletter when it comes and I have only started this one. I
want to go back and devour the History etc. I can't believe what a major
accomplishment we have in this project. The entire project has got to be a
labor of love of all involved. Just saying "thank you" seems inadequate
but do accept my appreciation for this fantastic link to our roots.
From: Catherine Custer
Burke (WI 1952)
These three happy Stealey
girls are members of the 1952 Washington Irving class. Left to right they are
Carolyn Tustin Vitola, Dorothy Ann Hughes Shaffer, and Bernice King McHenry.
Sadly, we have recently lost Carolyn and
Bernice. Dorothy Ann
lives in Michigan and is an occasional contributor to the Newsletter. We are
looking forward to Dorothy Ann and husband Charlies' visit back to West Virginia
this fall.
From: Marolyn Tustin Jett
(WI 1956)
Enjoyed the June newsletter. I was surprised to see
the picture of the three gals, as I had thought it was too dark.
I thought yesterday that it could be good for a
mystery picture and then it appeared in the newsletter. Thanks again. The
article and pics of Marianna turned out nicely also.
I am "tickled" that Mere won the quilt! Such
a special one! That quilt and color would be so nice in the Lambert home in
Pennsboro, WV.
TAKE A BOW
On Wednesday, June 13,
2018, our daughter, Vaneta, invited Bill and I to attend a dinner meeting of
the Franklin County Ohio State Alumni Association. The guest speaker at the
June dinner meeting was Jerry Lucas, former OSU basketball player who also had
a very successful professional basketball career.
At the meeting they presented the scholarship from this Alumni Association chapter to a student. There were 70 applications for the scholarship which was $5000.00. Everyone was so happy about the scholarship that was being given.
At the meeting they presented the scholarship from this Alumni Association chapter to a student. There were 70 applications for the scholarship which was $5000.00. Everyone was so happy about the scholarship that was being given.
I sat there listening and
beaming over the fact that here was an organization of thousands of alumni who
had come up with $5000.00 for a scholarship for one young lady. And the few readers
of my WI NEWSLETTER who supported the WASHINGTON IRVING NEWSLETTER SCHOLARSHIP
also gave a $5000.00 scholarship this year.
I wanted to stand up and shout, “WE DID THAT TOO!”
I wanted to stand up and shout, “WE DID THAT TOO!”
But I just sat there
quietly and beamed over the fact that you
who sent money to the scholarship had done as well as the thousands
of them had done! I kept looking at Bill and smiling. He winked at me because
he knew what I was thinking.
JOB WELL
DONE - I AM SO
PROUD OF YOU
CHECKS RECEIVED THIS MONTH
Terry Snider Fazio (WI
1967)
Terry sent her generous gift along with a very nice note: “Roleta, I am
giving this gift in memory of David “Hoot” Gibson, a classmate of mine.”
Also, I wanted to tell you that I know Haley Thomas, the young lady who received this year’s WIN Scholarship. I was so glad to see she had won it. She is very deserving. I know this will help her along her way.
Also, I wanted to tell you that I know Haley Thomas, the young lady who received this year’s WIN Scholarship. I was so glad to see she had won it. She is very deserving. I know this will help her along her way.
Sam Selario (WI 1957)
Thank you Sam for your continuing support of the WIN Scholarship.
MY APOLOGY: to David Saucer (WI 1951)
He gave
money to the scholarship last month and I missed saying that his gift to the scholarship
was given: In Memory of RUSSELL SAUCER (WI 1924)
You can always make a gift to help support the WIN scholarship throughout the year and become a part of the
project by writing your check to:
Roleta
Meredith c/o WIN Scholarship
And mail it to:
Roleta
Meredith
3025
Switzer Avenue
Columbus
Ohio 43219
No Gift
is Too Large or Too Small
Thank you so much for
your support of this newsletter and this scholarship.
The above information is available to you throughout the year by looking to the top of this page on the right side menu.
From: Mike Snyder (WI 1957)
THE
GOOD, THE BAD AND THE ORNERY
“I know who you are, I've heard all about you—get out! This was the
greeting I received from Ms. Williams when I strolled into her classroom the
first day of school a long way’s back. So, I was bounced into Miss Nutter's
English class where I sat with my tail between my legs and kept my mouth shut
until one day when I ventured a sincere inquiry about religion. “Communist!” she
shouted at me. Always a paragon of righteous indignation, she had no tolerance
for any such questions. Decades later, I would answer my own students when they
asked of such: “That's a good question,” and would give them an answer to the
best of my ability. I'm writing this in response to a question in the last
Newsletter about detention at Washington Irving back in our heyday. There was
none—but there were consequences for bad behavior. One bright spring day when
the sap was stirring through the greening trees and the captive student body,
Mr. Andre left his classroom for a brief spell. Since the windows were open, on
the spur of the moment, I picked up an ink bottle and threw it out the window.
Seemingly harmless, it landed on the lawn, I guess, but somehow, he found out
and I landed out of his class, permanently
WI'S
PONY EXPRESS
“Saddle up, Ennix, you’re going to ride Pony Express for me,” Coach Hite,
dean of students, told me soon after the Andre episode. “Yessir, Coach, I'm
your man!” was my happy response. That is how I got the best job in the whole
school—running messages and errands for my father Enoch's old football coach.
Clay B. always called me by dad's old nickname. I ended up getting full credit
for Social Studies, and Clay B.--whom I always addressed as Coach or Sir--and I
got along famously—truly like Forrest's peas and carrots. A classic case of
positive reward for negative behavior, and I've never forgotten that legendary
man's patience and kindness that he showed to a kid like me.
OTHER
TEACHERS AND REFLECTIONS
I sat in the back row of my Algebra II class and spent most of my junior
year lost and suffering silently. Our teacher was the kind who taught to the
naturals, to whom math came easy. Those of us in the back row got lost and
stayed there. When the last day of school finally arrived, at long last, I
answered freedom's call. “Looks like chicken scratching to me,” I told our
tight-laced teacher and wadded up my final exam and threw it in the waste
basket. As a result, half of the following summer I spent commuting to Fairmont
West where I successfully passed the class. That trying W.I. math class gave me
the resolve to reach the kids in the back row when I became a teacher years
later, and I did. At the opposite end of the spectrum was Mr. Duckworth's
biology class. It was so open to discussion and had such a stimulating
atmosphere that I thrived in there. “Mike, you seem to know a little bit about
everything,” Duck once told me. Wow! I received the only A that I ever remember
earning at W.I. in his class. And later in life, I operated my own class room
in a similar manner. With a strong dose of Coach Folio (my other favorite
mentor), my dad's, and the USMCs rules of discipline, my classes were smooth
sailing most of the time. I can honestly say that I loved my many years of
teaching and confess that my students taught me just as much as I taught them.
And to answer the reader's question: in today's schools in-school detention is
very much a necessity and it works. As for me, I'll take the Pony Express and
Clay B., any day.
2018 WI
SCHOLARSHIP QUILT WINNER RESPONDS
From: Mere Gurson Schwartz (WI 1957)
I'm surprised to be the winner of this year's quilt. I have always wanted
one. It will be a very special keepsake along with the other family prized
possessions we have. It will remind me of my great years growing up in West
Virginia. I will send a picture soon.
JULY MYSTERY
PICTURES
From: Elaine Younkin Bloomer
(WI 1964)
Hi, you probably know my sister, Barbara Younkin Park.
I am her younger sister, Elaine. We moved from Clarksburg August 1959 when I
was 9 years old.
I am compiling a family history and came across these
pictures of a parade in Clarksburg. I am not sure of the year, but I remember
being there. Barbara said something about “mystery pictures” that you post in
your school newsletter. I was wondering if you could do this so that I could
find out the year and the purpose of the parade. There is also one picture of a
football field, but not sure of that one either.
Also, Barbara and I took ballet lessons at Mary
Bergen’s Dance Studio, which was above a shoe store. Does anyone have pictures
of that? Jean Rae Miley was a childhood friend of mine who also took lessons
there. She would have graduated in 1964 from WI. I don’t know anything more
about her.
I live in a small town in the Mojave Desert, Pahrump-
about an hour west of Vegas and 45 min from Death Valley and have lived on the
west coast since 1972. I look forward to hearing from you.
Here are three of her pictures to stir your memories. Please write and tell us if you recognize anyone, if you recognize any of the places and exactly what you remember.
Please respond to Roleta1@aol.com
When emailing me, please include your name, school and
year you did or would have graduated.
Thank you.
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| PHOTO NUMBER ONE |
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| PHOTO NUMBER TWO |
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| PHOTO NUMBER THREE |
JUNE MYSTERY
PERSON
The lady on the left is Debbie
Sayre Stoikowitz (WI 1969)
Debbie Wrote:
I am so flattered that
you put my picture in the June newsletter as the mystery picture. The picture was
taken of me with my daughter last Halloween (2017) in Mission Viejo, Ca. We
were taking my grandsons trick or treating. So much fun!
I am definitely excited
to see if anyone recognizes me. I bet not many people will know me. I was very
shy in school and stayed pretty quiet.
Thank you so much for
using my picture! The newsletter is always so great to read.
You do an amazing
job!
From: Anne
Parsons Talkington (WI 1966)
A good
friend just forwarded to me the February copy of the newsletter. I have not
ever read one and really did enjoy it.
My name
is Anne Parsons Talkington (WI 1966.) My husband James Talkington, who passed
away in 2009, was also a WI grad and so were all of his siblings: Ronnie,
Elaine, and Barry. I would like to be on the email list for further
publications.
I only lived in Clarksburg for 4 years (my father the
administrator of the VA Hospital), all my memories are fond ones! I currently
reside in Raleigh, North Carolina. I recently attended a high school basketball
game here in town and the woman sitting behind me on the bleachers was from
Clarksburg. Her name is Barbara "Bobbie" Johnston Swisher, (WI 1959). We had a wonderful time talking, missed the entire
basketball game! I will look forward to the next letter.
THE CLARKSBURG CANNON
WHAT'S THE SCOOP?
From: Roleta1@aol.com
Pictured above is a cannon that once sat someplace in Clarksburg. Most of
us probably don’t remember it! It did disappear many years ago. If you think
you know where it was and where it went, please write and tell me. I only
publish correct guesses.
HOWEVER, THIS IS DIFFERENT: I wonder if there were other cannons placed throughout Clarksburg? Did you ever see any? Where were they located and do you know anything about them?
HOWEVER, THIS IS DIFFERENT: I wonder if there were other cannons placed throughout Clarksburg? Did you ever see any? Where were they located and do you know anything about them?
Keeping our history alive!
Write to me at Roleta1@aol.com
When emailing me, please include your name, school and
year you did or would have graduated.
Thank you.
Sports Editor: Bill Meredith
please email our Sports editor with your comments, questions and especially your memories
Bill:
Why is Bridgeport High School so good in all sports? Tough question! I
have lived in Bridgeport for over 43 years, but, graduated from
Roosevelt-Wilson High School in Nutter Fort; so, I am not a "homer",
so to speak. Here are a few possibilities.
Bridgeport High represents one town, Bridgeport. There is a certain pride
that comes from being the only school in town. Most schools have students
coming from many different sections of their county.
Perhaps it started with the winning done by the football team with coach
Wayne Jamison (an R-W grad, I might add). Wayne was a tough coach and expected
the best out of every player. Winning is expected at Bridgeport, starting with
the football team. I know it may be a little over- used, but, the team comes
first at Bridgeport.
Bridgeport High School is also the top AA school academically in the state
and the number two school overall, second only to Morgantown High School. Once
again, pride in your hometown school comes into play.
If you go to Bridgeport High you are expected to do your best and that
usually pays off with a win.
Just a side note to my friends from Bridgeport: when I was a Senior
playing basketball at Roosevelt-Wilson, we beat Bridgeport three times in one
season. I have the box scores to prove it. We won't talk about our games with
WI and Victory, although we did beat them a few times in the 50s.
Lyle Corder (RW 1957)
Reply to Lyle:
Thanks for giving me your thoughts on the excellence of the Bridgeport HS
program. As you mentioned in an email sent two days after the original, the
Indians did it again, winning the state Class AA baseball championship in
Charleston for the fifth year in a row. What an accomplishment!! Regardless of
the reason, it would be wise for other schools to take note of the success
Bridgeport has had an attempt to duplicate it. Fairmont Senior has fielded
competitive teams recently, but they still have a long way to go to catch
Bridgeport. Congratulations to the school and community for their amazing run.
Bill (billmere@aol.com)
CLARKSBURG HONORS
MIKE PATRICK (WI 1962)
The City of Clarksburg honored ESPN’S Mike Patrick Frankhauser (WI 1962)
(aka known as Mike Patrick on ESPN) after 35 years of broadcasting for the
sports network and his recent retirement. The ceremony took place on Monday,
June 11 at noon on the Jackson Square parking lot on Pike Street in Clarksburg,
WV. They presented Mike with a large sign which will be erected on the City
Parking Building above the Exit ramp as you leave the city via the Expressway.
Below is a picture of the
classmates of WI Class 1962 who were in attendance.
From left to right: Dave Anderson, Stumpie Bice, Bill Bowie, Bob Caplain, Mike Frankhouser Patrick, Margaret Heflin Bailey, Danny Wheeler, Marilyn Hurst Lee, Cassie McDougal Duncan, Rick Pekar, Bill Norris.
From left to right: Dave Anderson, Stumpie Bice, Bill Bowie, Bob Caplain, Mike Frankhouser Patrick, Margaret Heflin Bailey, Danny Wheeler, Marilyn Hurst Lee, Cassie McDougal Duncan, Rick Pekar, Bill Norris.
DID YOU KNOW THAT VICTORY STUDENTS ONCE ATTENDED WI?
DOCTOR
MARCUS FARRELL
From: Sally Anne Pulice
(WI 1969)
First and foremost, Thank
You, Roleta and Jalon for your commitment to the WI Newsletter. I think it is
worthy of some literary prize or some prize that honors your continued effort
in sustaining our memories and connections with one another for all who now or
previously resided in Harrison County, WV. Quite an accomplishment!
I am writing to share my
memories of my pediatrician, Dr. Marcus E. Farrell, whose office was located in
the Gore Building on Pike Street. I can recall that my parents were always with
me for any visit, and that we parked the car as near as possible to the main
entrance to the Gore Building, because if we were visiting Dr. Farrell, I or my
younger brother, Billy, was likely sick. (We received our childhood immunizations
at a public health center somewhere in Clarksburg because they were free
there.) We rode in an elevator up to Dr. Farrell's office, and when we exited
left from the elevator, there was an immediate antiseptic smell that entered
our space. I recall that we walked down a narrow, slightly sloping, carpeted
hallway. We met first with his nurse/receptionist, and then preceded to sit in
the waiting room on metal chairs (I think.) My younger brother would often
start to cry the minute we exited the elevator, but even if I was a bit nervous
about what was to come, I don't recall crying. Probably, I realized that my
parents were already dealing with one crying child. I recall that Dr. Farrell
was kind and calm, and he wore a white lab coat over dress pants and a shirt
and tie. One time when I had the mumps I missed two weeks of school, and Dr.
Farrell came to my home with his black bag to check on me. The best part of
knowing him was that on Halloween, we could visit his home in Broad Oaks/Goff
Plaza, on Spring Street, and he gave each of us a dime! That was even better
than candy, as we already had plenty of that! I also recall the mass
immunizations for polio that were free for all children at various locations in
the state of WV sometime during the 1960’s. Because we were in Shinnston so
often, I had my series of three oral polio immunizations at the Shinnston
Elementary School with my many cousins. A google search of Dr. Marcus E. Farrell
led me to a 9/18/16 obituary for his son, Dr. John David Farrell, age 79, a
pediatrician who had his practice in Herndon, VA. John David attended a private
high school in Wisconsin, so he was not a WI graduate. I am wondering if my
"older" Broad Oaks friends recall knowing Dr. Farrell's sons, John
David or his brother, Marcus, Jr., and if they attended Alta Vista or St.
Mary's?
EDITOR’S NOTE:
If you remember Dr.
Farrell, or his sons, please write to Roleta1@aol.com.
We probably all visited Dr. Farrell as I doubt if there was more than one
pediatrician in Clarksburg. What do you remember?
Write to Roleta1@aol.com
When emailing me, please include your name, school and
year you did or would have graduated.
Thank you.
HiY
MEMBERSHIP
Above is a copy of a HiY
membership card and the Pledge card. Did you belong to HiY? How were you
chosen? Was it grades, personality, leadership, religion, good looks, or
nationality? Who nominated the boy? Who voted on their membership? What was so
important about this group? What did they do? Did they earn money for a cause?
Did they work together for one purpose? Did they hold monthly meetings? Or as
it just a fun group? Is there still a HiY that is active at high schools now?
Write your memories to Roleta1@aol.com
When emailing me, please include your name, school and
year you did or would have graduated.
Thank you.
LARRY, CURLY
AND MOE?
From: Jim Alvaro (WI
1956)
Larry, Curly, and Moe?? Nope.
Three ole Broad Oaks
pals. Bud Collins (WI 1955), Jim Alvaro (WI 1956), and Bob Kopp (WI 56).
Jim
and Bob were visiting with Bud in The Villages, Fl.
We have known each other almost
75 years. Someone told us we haven't changed a bit. (I think it was one of
us that said that.)
MEMORIES
FROM 1956
From: Marolyn Tustn Jett
(WI 1956)
Walk through memory lane
with us. Here is a picture from the 50th Reunion of the WI Class of
1956. I hope you remember these ladies and can tell us the name of the lady
whose name escapes us.
Marianna is in the center peeking through front row Mary Ann Baily, Sally Henry, behind Jane Byrnside, Babe Bisping, Marolyn Tustin, Doris Cochran, ?, Bernice Long.
Write to Roleta1@aol.com with her name or any memories of that year
as well as the other classmates.
When emailing me, please include your name, school and
year you did or would have graduated.
Thank you.
JULY MYSTERY WOMAN
THE YEAR WAS 1957
Please identify this
person. Tell us her name, and anything you know about her. Only correct guesses
will be published.
Write to Roleta1@aol.com.
When emailing me, please include your name, school and
year you did or would have graduated.
Thank you.
ALTA VISTA 4TH
GRADE CLASS
From: Jim Alvaro (WI
1956)
Can you name any of those
pictured? Start with the top row and number one would be the first child on the
left. Name who you recognize, those you don’t recognize put a ,?, Then go on to
the next person.
Then Row 2 left to right, name a person and put a ? where you don’t know the name.
Help Jim figure out all the students in this class.
Even if you only know one person, that may be the very one who he does not remember.
Help Jim figure out all the students in this class.
Even if you only know one person, that may be the very one who he does not remember.
Please help.
Write to Roleta1@aol.com
When emailing me, please include your name, school and
year you did or would have graduated.
Thank you.
Click
on the link above that we have provided or on the Page Tab at the top of the
page anytime to read all about the upcoming reunions.
As
a courtesy for your convenience, we have included all of the latest information below in this month's
newsletter, too.
If
you are having a reunion, write to Roleta1@aol.com and we will put it in the newsletter and on our Class Reunions
page for all the readers to see.
Your reunion
news will appear in the most current newsletter and will remain on our Class
Reunions page until after the reunion is over.
After the
reunion, please send us pictures and a letter about the reunion so we can post
it in the newsletter. Remember there are people who, for one reason or the
other, cannot make it to class reunions even though they really want to attend.
So, if you share in the newsletter, others will be able to enjoy your reunion
also.
Please note
our Newsletter Policies when submitting information:
- We reserve the right to edit any
submission.
- We will not use religious, political,
ethnic or obscene material.
Submit Reunion Information to Roleta1@aol.com
Remember, when
submitting information in writing to the editor always include:
(1.) Your Complete Name
(2.) Your School's Name
(3.) If and/or when you graduated
VICTORY HIGH SCHOOL REUNION
ATTENTION ALL VICTORY ALUMNI
SAVE THE DATE: July 7 2018
From: Les Hall (Victory HS 1955) for Rita Bailey
The ALL VICTORY CLASS REUNION WILL BE HELD ON July 7, 2018 at the Harrison County Recreation Center on Rt 19, Clarksburg, WV.
This year (VHS’s 101st year in existence) will begin at 11:00 am and will be hosted by the Classes of 1965 and 1966 with the cooperative efforts of the Class of 1963.
The Reunion Committee will provide ham, hot dogs and all the fixings. Class will provide bottled water. If anyone needs something else to drink, please bring your own. Coffee will be provided!
Please bring your favorite covered dish (casserole, vegetable, salad, dessert) to share.
We are asking that each class representative notify their class members and let them know the details. We are looking forward to seeing all of you for an afternoon of getting reacquainted and visiting with each other!
Any questions, please email Les Hall at engleh@aol.com
Thank you.
ANNUAL DINNER
WI CLASS OF 1961
SAVE THE DATE: August 24 2018
Followed the next day by the
The annual dinner for the class 1961 will be held this year at 6:00 pm at the following location:
F. O. P. Mountaineer Lodge #78
1422 Buckhannon Pike
Nutter Fort, WV, 26301
Please let John Teter (jateter@aol.com) know if you plan to attend the dinner, so that we may provide the restaurant with an accurate head count.
Make sure you plan to go to the WI ALL ALUMNI PICNIC for lunch on Saturday!
WASHINGTON IRVING HIGH SCHOOL
REUNION PICNIC
ATTENTION ALL WI ALUMNI
SAVE THE DATE: August 25 2018
From: Penny Shanaman Donnelly (WI 1964)
I know we are all busy planning our summer vacations, which may include a trip home to Clarksburg to visit family and friends, so be sure to include the Annual WI Picnic at the Veterans Park on August 25th from 10:00 am to whenever. Look for the Osborne Pavilion across from the Amphitheater.
MARK your calendars for August 25th.
Can’t wait to see all our classmates again and catch up on all that has happened since graduation.
AFTER THE WI PICNIC
PEOPLE FROM CHESTNUT HILLS
WILL HAVE A REUNION
SAVE THE DATE: August 25 2018
SAVE THE DATE: August 25 2018
From: Gladys Williams (WI 1971)
The Chestnut Hills Reunion will be held Saturday, August 25, 2018 at the Blue Bird Store on Main Street in Clarksburg. Social at 6:00, dinner at 7:00. Cost $16.00 per person.
Send check made payable to Gladys Williams 85 Barnett Acres Rd. Clarksburg, WV 26301 You may contact Gladys at gwill1004@aol.com or 304-672-9071.
Make sure you read about the WI ALL ALUMNI REUNION PICNIC, go join in the fun time visiting and having lunch with more alumni.
EDITOR’S NOTE:
If you are going to the WI CLASS OF 1961 DINNER on the evening of Friday August 24,2018 or if you planning to attend the CHESTNUT HILLS DINNER on the evening of Saturday August 25, 2018, why don’t you make it a BIG REUNION WEEK-END? Attend 2 reunions in a short period of time. It would be nice to see more people while you have a chance.
50TH REUNION
WI CLASS OF 1968
SAVE THE DATE: August 31 2018
The WI Class of 1958 will hold their 50th Class Reunion Get Together on Labor Day week-end, Friday, August 31 2018 at Maple Lake Club House.
Saturday evening there are plans for a dinner/cruise leaving from Marietta, Ohio.
Gerald Workman is coordinating everything and can answer any questions.
Contact Gerald at rgw1968@yahoo.com
55th REUNION
WI CLASS of 1963
SAVE THE DATE: September 28 & 29 2018
From: Sara L Hall Howe (WI 1963)
September 28th and 29th 2018.
Casual dress both evenings.
Friday night will be held at Progressive Woman’s Association (“old YWCA”) on Washington Ave. (parking is close by.)
Saturday. Best Western Plus on Lodgeville Rd.
Doors open at 5:00 -5:30 pm
CLASS PICTURE at 6:00 pm
DINNER at 6:30 pm
If you need any further information, contact saralhowe@yahoo.com.
60TH REUNION
WI CLASS OF 1958
WI CLASS OF 1958
SAVE THE DATE: September 29 2018
The WI Class of 1958 is planning their 60th Reunion to be held on Saturday, September 29 for one day only.
We will gather together at the Bridgeport Conference Center.
For more information, please contact:
Connie Ferrell via email: ferrellcc@aol.com
Linda Pritchard via e-mail: moolinda9@msn.com or
Sonny Donaldson via e-mail: Shedrickdonadso@gmail.com
CLARKSBURG WINTER PICNIC
IN SARASOTA FLORIDA
SAVE THE DATE: March 9 2019
Don’t forget to mark your calendars and make your plans now!
One more time for the old times.
It will be the first time in 3 years and the very last ever.
One final time to see everyone and have some good times sharing memories.
Come join us!
RICHARD K. RADCLIFF
Richard K. Radcliffe, 62, passed away on June 6, 2018, at his home in
Hurricane, WV, with his family by his side. Rick was born to Clovis (Buck) and
Ruth Radcliffe in Clarksburg, WV, on July 26, 1955. He graduated from
Washington Irving High School and Glenville State College with a degree in
Surveying. He went to work for WVDOH for a short time before starting a long
career with C&P Telephone / Bell Atlantic / Verizon/Frontier until his diagnosis
of an inoperable Glioblastoma Brain Tumor in late June 2015.
Rick was a member of Duff Street United Methodist Church in Clarksburg,
WV. He attended St. John United Methodist Church in Scott Depot, WV.
Rick was preceded in death by his parents, Buck and Ruth Radcliffe, and
his brother-in-law, Harvey Hardy. He is survived by his loving wife Teri Morris
Radcliffe, son Michael (Shannon) Radcliffe, son Mark (Katie) Radcliffe,
daughter Laura Casto and her companion Austin Albert, and daughter Erica Casto.
Also left to cherish fond memories of Rick are the eight grandchildren that he
took great pride in. Rick is also survived by his two sisters Nancy (Bob) Fowler.
And a host of in-laws from both the Morris and Mosier families.
Rick and his family would like to thank the exceptional medical team that
has treated him the past three years as he battled Brain Cancer.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations can be made to 2018/2019
TEAM RADCLIFFE participating in the "Angels Among Us" event at Duke
University Medical Center, which directly supports Brain Tumor Center research
efforts. You may share memories of Rick on his tribute page by visiting ChapmanFuneralHomes.com.
Donations can be made by clicking here:
Angels Among Us 2018
LINDA JOHNSTON BINKELMAN
(WI 1959)
Linda Johnston Binkelman, my love, my baby doll, my best
friend, sadly passed away April 18, 2018, from complications of AML, a very
aggressive leukemia.
Linda was born in Clarksburg, West Virginia, September 1941,
to parents Maxine Ash Johnston and Gerald Johnston (JJ).
Linda is survived by her daughters, Courtney Binkelman and
Amity Binkelman and her longtime love, Leo Trapp. Also survived by cousins,
Cecelia St Don, Mike Allen and Mark Allen. Also, Linda's best friends, Paula
Beall, Gloria Guthrie and Sallie Holden Day.
Linda was a genuinely wonderful woman who touched the lives
of all she knew. She was a smart, beautiful, sophisticated woman with many
friends. She loved to play cards, a voracious reader, an incredible dedicated
mother, a fabulous cook and be happy holding hands while watching TV. A true
sweetheart, love and friend. Linda will be missed by all.
MARTHA LOU BUSSEY MARTIN
(WI 1944)
Martha Lou Bussey Martin, 90, of Clarksburg, passed
away on Wednesday, May 23, 2018, in the United Hospital Center Hospice
following an extended illness.
She was born in Huntington, WV, on June 20, 1927, a
daughter of the late Ernest Alden Bussey Sr. and Lenore C. Runnion Bussey
Bookman.
Surviving are one son, James Anthony Martin; two
granddaughters, Pamela Susan Martin (John) Bailey and Martha Lenore Martin; and
three great-grandchildren.
She was also preceded in death by two brothers, Ernest Alden
Bussey and James Edward Bussey.
Mrs. Martin was a 1944 graduate of Washington Irving High
School. She studied accounting with I.A.S. in Chicago, IL, and was employed by
G.H. Campbell and Associates public accountants from 1951-1956, Corporate
Account for Personal Credit Corporation and its subsidiaries, Savannah, GA from
1956-1963, office/credit manager and account for Broida’s of Clarksburg from
1963-1986; and Comptroller of WV Eyecare, Inc. in Clarksburg from 1986 until
her retirement in 1996.
She was a member of the Daniel Davisson Chapter of Daughters
of American Revolution, Clarksburg, former member of the YWCA, Business and
Professional Women and Harrison County Symphonic Chorus, all of Clarksburg, and
Society of Women Accountants, Savannah, GA.
Mrs. Martin was also a member of the United Methodist
SHARON LEE VAN DEVENDER
(WI 1960)
Sharon Lee Van Devender,
76, of Bridgeport passed away at her home on Friday, June 1, 2018. She was born
on October 6, 1941, in Clarksburg, a daughter of the late Willard Earl Elliott
and Doris Neff Elliott.
She was preceded in death
by her husband of 49 years, Phillip Van Devender who passed away on August 15,
2009.
She is survived by her
three daughters, Debbie Wagner and her husband Dave, Betsy Headley and her
husband Darrell and Beverly Van Devender; ten grandchildren.
In addition to her
parents and husband she was also preceded in death by her son, Phillip Van
Devender, Jr.
Sharon was a graduate of
WI High School Class of 1960 and graduated from Fairmont State in 1992 with a
Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work. She started working at Department of Human
Services in 1986 and retired as a Social Worker with over 15 years of service.
