September 4, 2018

Issue 229






Editor: Roleta Smith Meredith

Publisher: Jalon Smith Burton




A NOTE TO YOU FROM TIM CORK

EDITOR'S NOTE:

Over the years, through Tim’s passion for the History of WI and Clarksburg, he has become the WI Newsletter Historian.

We all wish Tim a quick and successful recovery.

Here is a letter to YOU from Tim.



Dear friends and WI Newsletter readers,

I want to express my deepest appreciation for all the get-well cards and messages you have sent me. Your thoughtfulness and kind words has lifted my spirits and made each day much easier to tolerate during this difficult period. As my condition improves, I plan to continue with updates and additions to the projects found in the newsletter.

May God bless each and every one of you.

Tim Cork



EDITOR'S NOTE:

Tim mentioned to me that many of you had sent him cards and that it really helped him through the days. He enjoyed the fact that many of you appreciated and mentioned the work he did to preserve the history of WI and the Clarksburg area.
If you have not sent him a card, or maybe you want to send him another one to help cheer him up, here is a reminder of his address

Tim Cork
1475 Luke Lane
Lawrenceville, GA 30043

Please do this for Tim. He is a very thoughtful Christian man.





THE WIN SCHOLARSHIP

THE WASHINGTON IRVING NEWSLETTER SCHOLARSHIP

The WIN Scholarship is presented each year to a graduate from R.C. Byrd High School (consolidated Clarksburg High School) and is given directly to the graduate’s college to help with their educational expenses.

Readers of The Washington Irving Newsletter come together to support the WIN Scholarship.



If you wish to SUPPORT the WIN SCHOLARSHIP:
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 mailing 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.

Every cent collected goes directly to support the WIN SCHOLARSHIP.

HELP A CLARKSBURG STUDENT GO TO COLLEGE

Those who gave this month are:

Allen Alvarez (WI 1958) Thank you for your continuing support.

Herb Cashdollar (RW 1957) Your support is greatly appreciated.

John C. Allen (WI 1957) Thank you for your support and nice note.

Mary Virginia Duncan Johnson Wilke (WI 1955). Thank you for the gift to the scholarship and for volunteering to help with the making of a quilt square for the 2019 quilt.

Melinda Mazza Sutter (WI 1964) and Steve Sutter (WI 1964). Thank you for your generous gift to the Scholarship.

Sharon Gordon DiMaria (WI 1961) Thank you for the note saying that my mother was a wonderful teacher and that she would be very proud of my sister and me. Thank you also for supporting the scholarship.

Marilyn Hurst Lee (WI 1962) and husband Tommy Lee (WI 1958) Thanks for your gift to the scholarship.




THE 2018 WIN SCHOLARSHIP QUILT HAS BEEN RECEIVED

Above is a picture of Mere Gurson Schwartz (WI 1957) who received the quilt in the drawing of the lucky ticket in May. We announced the winner then but just received a picture of her with the quilt.




Roleta Smith Meredith and Jalon Smith Burton

THE SMITH SISTERS

The Editor and Publisher of the WI NEWSLETTER recently visited Berlin, Ohio, Amish Country. It was a wonderful day of lunch and shopping for the sisters who only see each other a couple of times a year.


Photo taken from the front of our bus.





AUGUST MYSTERY PICTURE

From: James Strider (WI 1955)

These ladies pictured are two to three years older than I am, so I could only stand back, admire them from afar and lament that I was born too late. But with the aid of the 1952-year book, I came up with some fair guesses for those I was not reasonably sure of. Here goes, front row left to right, including the two faces partially hidden behind the front row Nancy Rymor; Katie Custer; Marion Reep; Ann Brannon; Latitia Johnson; Diana Robey and Ann Ralston. Back row, Irene Armour; Mary Jo Urso; Hilda Gower; Unknown; Carol Tomes; Shirley Stotler and Marion Spelsburg. I think the picture was taken at Lake Riley.


From: Carolyn Hinzman Ramsay (Weston High 1952)

The Mystery picture is of girls from the class of WI 1952.
1st row, r to l: Mary Catherine Childs, Virginia (Babe) Campbell, ? , Mirian Reep (Miss WVa), ? , Nancy Jane Rymer
2nd row: r to l: ? , Dedie Swisher, ?, Jo Ellen Duling, ? , ? , ?


From: Joe Malone (WI 1952)

Front Row: Nancy Jane (Janie) Rymer, Diana (Dincy) Rede, Mirian Reep, June Skidmore, Charlotte (Binegar) Robertson, Virginia (Babe) Campbell, Mary Catherine Childs,
Back Row: Barbara Antoine, Mary Joretta Urso, Roxanna Myers, Jo Ellen Duling, Ann Brannon, Diane (Deedee) Swisher, Marian Spelsberg
By the way, Marian Spelsberg was the Class of 1952 Valedictorian.
And Mirian Reep was Ms. WV.


  



REMEMBER BELONGING TO AN ORGANIZATION IN CLARKSBURG?

Tell us about your early memories of being a member of a high school organization or adult organization such as: Masons, Knights of Columbus, Elks, Moose, Eastern Star (or other women's organizations), Eagles, De Molay, etc.

Tell us why you joined the organization and what you enjoyed most about it? Write your memories to Roleta1@aol.com

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

Thank you.





CALLING ALL AUTHORS 
FROM CLARKSBURG

If you are an author and have a book published, we would like to hear about it. From what I have been told, there are a lot of people who graduated from WI who have written books. I bet there were many from other schools in the county, too.

Write and tell us the name of your books, what is it about and where the public may purchase it. I think this is very interesting. We will feature two authors each month.

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


This month we are featuring two authors.



Our first author is Mike Snyder (WI 1957).


Mike writes: "I think WI alums and those with Clarksburg ties will enjoy and relate to my Amazon eBook Bury Me in West Virginia." 



“BURY ME IN WEST VIRGINA”





Our second author is James S. Stout (Weston HS 1948).

James S Stout (Lost Creek schools for 11 years) traveled buy commercial bus to Weston for senior year in order to get more varied courses offered, graduated from Weston High School.

Jim writes: I have published 2 novels

The first book is:


“THE BEST SUMMER—UBETCHA”

Product Description:

The leaves of autumn will soon bedeck the “hills of home” in glorious color as two beautiful; and talented teens return to go to college in WV after a three month “working vacation” in the Pacific Northwest. Their talents have been rewarded beyond their wildest dreams, and their pursuit of love and happiness may have also been rewarded. Alpha Lee is an artist, who finds phenomenal success selling her lovely creations in charcoal and oils and enjoys designing and sewing creative costumes for her classmate Susan, a singer of ballads and popular love songs, with a marvelous voice and stage presence; but with an indescribable history of abuse that has led to the incarceration of her molester; and a visible and seemingly eternal personality impairment. Janus (a high school friend) who worked during summers in the coal mines at an early age and has a history of working with large mechanical beasts; is a lonely soldier working in the motor pool and teaching others how to drive the huge “tank-hauling” tractor-trailer rigs-has provided shelter and safety in a rustic cottage he is renting-but he will not be staying back east after a short visit with his parents-his part-time job off base has led to a full-time offer with college tuition benefits after his discharge in August. Hs army duties and workplace friends also add color and excitement to their summer.


The second book is:



“CHERRY TREE BOTTOMS”

Product Description:

Setting is mostly in Clarksburg, WV (orphanage). Eventually Cherry Tree Bottoms, name of village before the railroad arrived (1900) and renamed it Richwood.



From: Roleta1@aol.com

Thanks to Mike and to Jim for responding. I have read Mike’s book. It is really good because it is mainly about Clarksburg. I hope to read one of Jim’s as I am interested. He also seems to have written about West Virginia. Jim, they both look to be very good.

Just a reminder, if you are an AUTHOR and you have a book published, Congratulations! I hope you will send some information re: your book to Roleta1@aol.com

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

Thank you.

With your help, I will feature 2 authors each month.

Let’s see how many readers are also authors?




This picture was sent in by Jim Alvaro (WI 1956)

ALTA VISTA 4TH GRADE CLASS

REMEMBERED

From: Sandy Squires (WI 1956)

Row 1. Mr. Lawson, Diane Wamsley, Roy Feldman, Susan Caplan, Ronnie Lewis, Sandra Shreves, Ed Lantz, Rosemary Medina, Bob Flowers.

Row 2. Carolyn Lawson, Walter Wiltzie, Ann Moore, Mary Skidmore, Harold Brewster, Shirley Watson.

Row 3. Terry Moore, Betty Kovlan, Don Sager B.R. (Basil Rymer) ? , CW (Connie Willing) ? , Jack Borror

Row 4. Jeannie Taylor, Ken Watson, Sandra Squires, Jim Alvaro, Ann Hollingsworth, Bob Kopp, Janet Webb, Bob Simons, Dokie Boone

Row.?, Ruth Straight, (TT) Tommy Tucker, Mary Sue Clark, CR (Chester Rogers)? Sandra Poling.





AUGUST MYSTERY CHILD

The boy pictured above is Buck Tustin (WI 1955) and he is pitching horse shoes at a pit built by his father. The neighborhood boys and men would play in the evenings. I wish one of them had written to tell us about the pit, the game and who all played.

THE PURPOSE OF THE MYSTERY PICTURE IS to get you to think, to identify, to enjoy those memories and to share those memories with us.

Here are some who shared their memories with you.

From: Jim Strider (WI 1955)

I believe the boy could be Buck Tustin. He is ether hiding a cigarette or pitching horse shoes.


From: Jim Alvaro (WI 1956)

I'm guessing August's Mystery Child is none other than my pal Buck "Buckaroo" Tustin. If it is not him, I'm going to write about Bucky anyway.
All those who have left Clarksburg need a "go-to" guy like I have with Buck. He keeps me up to date on the goings on and with info about those who have passed on in Clarksburg. For years I have contacted him letting him know ahead of time when I'll be going home. For many years we have met for breakfast every day that I am there. In those years we have met Bob Hart at Bob Evans in Bridgeport. Bob, Buck, and I would sit there for a couple hours just talking about the old time: Basketball, Football or anything else we wanted to talk about. Several times Bob would ask about my brother in law, Dave Ferraro. I would relay a message to Dave from Bob and vice a versa. Then one trip Dave was in Clarksburg same time as I due to a family funeral. We surprised Bob when Buck and I walked in Bob Evans with Dave. Buck and I sat there listening to Bob and Dave talk about their lives since seeing each other many years ago. It was hard to believe how much they had in common in their travels with companies they represented. It was a wonderful get together.
Also, for many years after breakfast, Buck and I would get in his car, go to an Italian market in North View, and buy some pepperoni, bread, and some pop. I would say, where to this time Buck?" He would always say, "you'll see." I thought I knew Clarksburg as well as anyone. NOT! I didn't know that the extension of Duncan Ave in Stealey would end somewhere near Victory High School. I believe it was Duncan. Another time we headed out past Willow Beach and someway we ended up in Hepzibah. We stayed off of interstates, and as many paved roads as he could avoid. All this time we counted up how many deer we could see. One day, in a few hours, we counted upwards of 200+ deer. There were some fields that had 15 to 20 deer grazing. Every trip with Buck was an experience. I really looked forward going home and spending time with Buck.
So, I wish everyone going back home had a contact person as I have with Buck. It really helps to have someone to hang out with after you get through visiting your relatives. (Which are now getting scarce.)
As long as Buck and I are on the top side of the grass, I hope to continue this.


From: Martha Jefferies Rice (WI 1955)

I believe the young man in the photo is Buck Tustin but I have no idea what he is doing.
Life is busy and that is good.

EDITOR’S NOTE:

My dad also built a horse shoe pit. Did you have one at your home? Tell us about it? I wish we had some pictures of the one my brother and dad built.

Write and tell us about pitching horse shoes in the Clarksburg area.
Was there a public area for this game? Were there championships? Did it ever get out of the back yard?
Write to Roleta1@aol.com and let’s learn about HORSE SHOE PITCHING in our town!

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

Thank you.





If you would like to send us an email to share your memories, thoughts, or comments, write to Roleta1@aol.com. And please remember, when emailing include your name, school and year you did or would have graduated.

Thank you.



From: John Petitto (NDHS 1964)

Dr Farrell was also our pediatrician for my 4 siblings and I. He was bald and always wore a white lab/doctors coat. He suffered a heart attack while shoveling snow. He and his wife, Mae attended daily morning Mass at Immaculate Conception Parish on Pike Street next to Notre Dame High School and St Mary's Grade School. I was an Altar Boy and they would often give me a ride home. We lived 2 blocks apart. They lived on Spring Street and I lived on Hedge Street. He was truly a fine man.


From: Cheryl Corder McClure (WI 1964)

Roleta, you do remember correctly Doc. was bald and he always had on his lab coat. When he came over to the house he’d just have his suit jacket on. They usually don’t wear them home because who knows what is on them. In those years they were sent out to cleaners.  He was the kindest Doctor ever I’ve never had one like him since growing up in Clarksburg!

EDITOR'S NOTE:

Thank you John and Cheryl for writing. I thought I remembered him being my doctor too.


From: Nancy Swing (WI 1961)

Another great job with the newsletter, Roleta. Such diversity of topics and interests. Many thanks for featuring my books. My publisher told me this week we can get Lazarus out Dec. 1, so I'm working hard for that goal.
Warmest regards,
Nancy


From: Joe Malone (WI 1952)

I have several comments regarding items in the August Newsletter, so I'll begin with:
Kudos to Emmalee Hite on her piece on her Dad. Beyond the words, those two photos "spoke to me". While the athletic teams prospered under his replacement, Coach Hite was and remained the icon of athletics @ WI and, frankly, throughout the Big Ten Conference. Good job, Em!
The Oliker twins, Dick & Dan, were a year ahead of me and, as I warmed the bench, they held down each end of both the offensive and defensive lines on the football team. I was told that when it came down to going to college, their Dad flipped a coin. Dan - WVU; Dick - USAF. As mentioned, Dan became the WVU Mountaineer and, as I ended up at Penn State (Boo-Hiss!) I had the pleasure of introducing him to the Nittany Lion when WVU visited Happy Valley. Both Olikers were top shelf guys!
I hope at least one person accepted my "challenge" to name each of the lovely ladies in my "Senior Skip Day" picture and point out which one was later "Miss WV" in 1954. I promised raffle tickets in next year's "Quilt Raffle" for each name submitted. Only the scholarship kids win! (I sure don't.)
Finally, keep at it, Kiddo! You and your team do good work!!!!!!

EDITOR’S NOTE: 

Thank you Joe for your continuing support of the newsletter by writing such interesting letters, sending pictures and suggesting topics for people to write about Thank you also for your terrific ongoing support of the WIN Scholarship. I also wish you would win, but just keep buying those tickets, maybe you will win the quilt next time.


From: Jack Emrick (WI 1953)

So, I am going to try to answer some of the questions from the August Newsletter. Hope that I am successful!
There was a male cheerleader at WI who graduated in 1949. His name was Robert Malone and he went on to become a helicopter pilot in the USMC. He is the older brother of Joe "HOP" Malone, WI 52. I met him finally at Camp Gifu, Japan in 1955 when I was stationed at that base as a Marine Pfc, and working as a USMC Postal clerk on the base. I recognized him in our PX and asked if I could tell him his name. He said that I could, and so I did so, and then revealed that his brother and I were friends in school. He was really helpful to me, as I had been given a reel to reel tape recorder as a graduation gift from my parents. My mom and dad would record a tape and then send it to me. Unfortunately, the current in Japan was a lower voltage and frequency, and I had no tape recorder to play it on, anyway. Bobby said, "Just bring it over to my BOQ and I will play it for you". He had a tape recorder, and a voltage regulator that would step up the current, and they played very well. I was very appreciative of his friendship.
There was a male drum major in the 1953 WI Marching Band. His name was James Ray Woofter. He was a twirler for the two years prior to his becoming the drum major. I was a snare drummer in 52, 53, & 54. I was fortunate enough to be chosen president of the band as a senior in 1954. I knew Jim and he did a very competent job as drum major and was a good leader.
As to the mystery picture, I will try to identify the ladies. I knew everyone in that group, but my mind is having a problem with a couple of the faces. The third lady in the back row is seated in such a way that her face is not exposed enough for me to make a guess. I knew all the ones I have named and considered them as friends and just couldn't come up with "Babe's" last name. I know that I will eventually think of it. Wish that I could see that third face a little more fully. Oh, well-what else is new?
Back row Left to Right: Barbara Antoine, Mary Joretta Urso, ? ? ? (I'm sure I know her, but can't name her-not a full enough face)???, Jo Ellen Duling, Anne Brannon, DeDe Swisher, Marian Spellsburg,
Front row, Left to Right: Nancy Jane Rymer, Dincy Rede, Marian Reep; Miss WV 1954, June Skidmore, Charlotte Binegar Robinson, Babe (I cannot remember her last name, but it will come to me next week LOL!), and Mary Catherine Childs.
Saturday after we visit at the WI All Class Picnic at Veteran's Park, I will run back to my church where we will celebrate my wife Beverly's 70th (07/30/48), her sister Sheilah's 60th (08/06/58, and my daughter Alisha's Mother in Law Joyce Setchell's 60th (08/20/58) from 2PM to 5PM, (Bev is WI-66, and Sheilah is WI-76-maiden name Workman). There was just too much going on for us to get it done when their days came, so we are doing it on the 25th.
I look forward to seeing you and Bill at the picnic.


From: Sue Dodds Michaels (WI 1953)

I was a WI cheerleader named Sue Dodds (Michaels), graduating in 1953.
Thank you for the wonderful article on Coach Hite. I would like to add that he also tried to make ladies (notice the tried) out of the cheerleaders. More than once he gave me some good advice. He was quite a man and I will always value my times with him.


From: John Teter (WI 1961)

I remember that BARRY TALKINGTON (WI -1962) was a drum major my senior year at WI, but I do not know if he continued that during his final year.
I do not remember a male cheerleader any of my years at WI.


From: Joe Malone (WI 1952)

My brother, Bob Malone, was a four-year cheerleader WI from 1946-49.




MY HOME

Clarksburg, West Virginia,
Hermon number six.
My home lodge, my home town.
'Tis no finer mix!

Towers Elementary,
Central Junior High,
Washington Irving High School
Memories bring a sigh.

Clarksburg, first through twelve,
Hermon, first through third.
Wonders of my young life,
It's there that I'm anchored

Do I miss the hill tops?
I'm living where it's flat!
So, to West Virginia,
I always tip my hat!

David B Bates (WI 1951)
Copyright© 2018


MISS HOGAN


Seventy-eight years ago, this day*,
I was introduced to the world in a wonderful way.
Miss Blanch Hogan was the lady's name.
Teaching first grade was her "claim to fame".

Towers Grade School, that’s the place!
Full of wonder, love and grace.
Miss Hogan led our class along,
Reading, math and, oh yes, a song.

She was the start of a mighty road.
She taught me how to "bear the load".
How to look far out ahead.
I had nothing I should dread.

Miss Hogan was my loving guide.
She taught to extend my stride.
Memories of her will always last.
She's always with me, from my past.

5 Sept 1939

David B. Bates (WI 1951)
Copyright© 2017





THE WI PICNIC

What a successful picnic! The picnic was held on August 25, 2018 at Vet’s Park. There were 109 present this year. The largest crowd we have had in a couple of years. I believe everyone had a great time. The ones from my class certainly did! The weather was perfect and there was plenty to eat!! There is now a larger group of those attending from the 1960’s and 70’s.

Why don’t you write an email to some classmates and invite them to come to the picnic next year? The more the merrier!

Thanks to Jeannie “Penny” McKenon Donnelly (WI 1964).


If you have some pictures taken at the WI Reunion Picnic, please send them to Roleta1@aol.com so I can publish them next month.

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


Below are the pictures we have so far from this year’s picnic:



The Class Members of 1955

Left to Right: 
Bob McGee, Deloris Muscaro Alvaro, Buck Tustin



The Class Members of 1956

Left to Right: 
John Harrison, Liz Teter Akin, Chuck Thomas and Ronnie Rogers



The Class Members of 1957

Left to Right: 
Mike Snyder, Jim Brown, Frank Muscari, Bill Meredith (Monongah 1957-wait, how did he get in there?) and Skip Bowie



The Class Members of 1958

Left to Right: 
Jeannie Werner Davis, Tommy Lee, ? Tallman, Nancy, ?



The Class Members of 1959
The largest class representation present was from the Class of 1959 with 15 in attendance.

Left to Right: 
Roleta Meredith, John Christie, Sharyn Cottrill McGahan, Jeanne Werner Davis, Beth Twigg Devericks, Ronnie Werner, Julia Davis Pinti, Wirt Wolfe, Rosemary Grow Warne, Ruth Ann Martin Hill, Mike Fresa, Carolyn Pinella Warne, and Vince Fragomene.
Missing in picture is Phyllis Fittro Brown who came later.
Also, Vince won the prize for traveling the furthest…



The Class Members of 1960

Left to Right: 
Bob Teter, Pam Wolfe Brown, George Cinci, Becky McClain Werner, and Wheelock.


Some classmates of the Class of 1961 with a cute red car at the WI Picnic!

The Class Members of 1961

Left to Right: 
Mickie FORD Brumage, Mimi LEE Fanning, Rick Wilson, Sarah GERVELLA Frush.



Classmates of the WI Class of 1961 recently met for dinner at the FOP in Nutter Fort, WV.

Left to Right: 
Ann KILLINGSWORTH Smith, Mickie FORD Brumage, Ron Clevenger, Ron Clevenger's wife, Rick Wilson, Suzie HESTON Palmer, Richard Malcolm (in back), Sarah GERVELLA Frush (in front), Mimi LEE Fanning, Barbara PAUGH Patton, Jim Gallo, Joyce GUINN Elbon, Roberta WRIGHT Poe, Steve Elbon, Bill Lance, Patty HICKMAN Cravey, Elizabeth SWIGER Layton.






NEW:

George Walters (WI 1956) Gands59@yahoo.com
Bob Swiger (WI 1961) Bobswiger123@gmail.com
Elizabeth Ann Kemper Errico (WI 1963) eannkemper@icloud.com
Betsie Gribble Demarais (WI 1965) bdemarais@icloud.com
Lewis Gail Grimm (WI 1966) lggrimm@aol.com
Michael Lambiotte (WI 1967) michaelslambiotte@gmail.com
Janice Waller Metzgar (WI 1968) jmetzgar801@hotmail.com
Brad Rogers (WI 1975) and Lisa Stout Rogers (WI 1976) br5418@aol.com
Leslie DeLaPena Wheelock (WI 1975) leslie.bernadette@yahoo.com
Harry Mitchell (WI 1979) harrymitchell_50@msn.com
Billie A Short Cox (WI 1976) bacox1958@yahoo.com
Fran Lopez (WI 1979) evilwitchcat@yahoo.com.
Tacy ‘Elbon’ Goldsmith (WI 1983) tacy922@hotmail.com
Chris Lennon (WI 1991) Chrisgq101@yahoo.com

CHANGE:

Gary Robey (WI 1957) robey.g@gmail.com
Richard Underwood (WI 1960) underwoodrichard371@yahoo.com





SEPTEMBER MYSTERY PICTURE

When you look at this picture, do you recognize the place, the people, the year or anything at all about what you see in the mystery picture?

Now make a note to write to Roleta1@aol.com about what you remember by looking at the picture.

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

Thank you.





FROM THE 1928 VICTORY ANNUAL

I wanted to print this as some of you may recognize a name printed within? Possibly a relative?

Bill Floppannie wrote concerning some of the names mentioned: Jeranko is Stanley Jeranko, long time coach at Northview Jr. High and the Caussin should be Angel Caussin of Hamill Avenue in Northview.

From: Roleta1@aol.com

I noticed a mention of Folio at the end of the program, I bet that is Coach Anthony Folio that many from WI will recognize.

Do you recognize any names? Does this stir any memories?


Write to 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
(Monongah HS 1957)
billmere@aol.com
please email our Sports editor with your comments, questions and especially your memories





In the coming months, we hope to do more articles about specific players, who participated in sports in Harrison County high schools.

As part of this effort, we need pictures from "back in the day" of individuals, teams, games, etc. So, dig out your old scrap books and send us any pictures that you think would be of interest to our readers. If possible, include names, approximate dates and any other information you can furnish.

You can either scan the picture and email it to me or send the actual picture to me via US Postal Service. I'll copy it and return it to you by mail.

My email address is:
billmere@aol.com
When emailing me, please include your name, school and year you did or would have graduated.
Thank you.

Mailing address is:
Bill Meredith
3025 Switzer Ave.
Columbus, OH 43219

Thanks in advance for helping me out with this project.

Bill


  

In the August Newsletter, I asked for our readers to predict the final regular season record for the WVU football team this fall.

The following are the replies I received. The person whose guess is nearest to the actual record will receive a nice Mountaineer themed gift.

Thanks to all those who participated.

*My prediction is at the end of this section.



People say, “Let’s go!” suggesting it's time to leave 
and you respond instantaneously with “MOUNTAINEERS!”



Bill:

My prediction is 7-5.

Bryan McIntyre (WI 1965)



Bill:

My prediction is 8 and 4.
I'm concerned about both Oklahoma teams, Tennessee coming back and Texas??
Overall, it seems like we have a well-rounded team with improvements on both sides of the ball. My concern is, are we starting to settle for 4 losses or more every year?

Bob Swiger (WI 1961)



Bill:

My prediction for the upcoming football season for WVU is 8 - 4, in favor of WVU!!!!!!!!!!

John Teter (WI 1961)



Bill:

Put me in for 9-3 for WVU this year.

Bud Collins (WI 1955)



Bill:

Last year, I would have had a winner with my prediction, until Will Grier got hurt. This year, I am sorry to predict a 7 - 5 season. My reasoning is that if Grier and Sills do not get hurt and play up to 100% of their capability, we should be a 9 - 3 team. But what are the chances there will not be any injuries among them? If either one of them goes down, it really hurts the other. I think we will win the first 6 games and then beat Baylor. I think we will lose to Iowa State at Iowa State, Texas at Texas, TCU, Oklahoma State at OK State, and Oklahoma. Also, from what I read, there are some serious questions concerning our defense. So, I'll stick with a 7 - 5 prediction. Hopefully, I'm wrong and we go 9 - 3. This is my story and I'm sticking to it.
Thank you for another great year in the WI Newsletter Sports Section.

Jim Alvaro (WI 1956)



Bill:

This season prompts everything from restraint to unabashed enthusiasm. The anything can happen has to be balanced by the record of the past six-years of Big 12 football. by the Mountaineers.
My prediction is by the "osmosis" method rather than analytical analysis, translated--what I feel. Plus, a good dose of a glass half-full mindset based on following WVU football since 1957. Prediction:8-4 season.

Mike Snyder (WI 1957)



Bill:

I am going to be conservative and guess 7-5. I think we're going to be a very good football team, no doubt about that. We will be fun to watch and score a ton of points. And Dana is maturing as a head coach. However, the schedule is very difficult, and I worry about our depth, especially on defense. If we get lucky and don't have injuries to key players as we did last year, and if we get better officiating than we got last year, then we might win 8 or 9 games. However, given how tough this schedule is, I'm afraid we're going to be beaten up, physically and mentally, by mid-season, and I'm not sure we have enough depth to have a really big year. So, I predict 7 wins and, as always, will hope for more. One thing's for sure, we'll know a lot about this team after the first three games.

Ken Matheny (WI 1973)



Bill:

Record: 9 & 3. Lose to NC St., TCU & OK.

Gary Wamsley (WI 1960)



Bill:

My guess, based on serious research, is a 6 win 6 loss season.

Bernie Cohen (WI 1956)



Bill:

Sorry I didn’t get back sooner. I believe the Mountaineers will have to win all three of their opening scheduled games in order for: 1. To be in the mix for a big-time bowl game and: 2. For Will Grier to have any shot at the Heisman. Tennessee at Charlotte, Youngstown State at Morgantown and N.C. State in Raleigh will be a real test as to whether they are formidable, or just another average team. If they win these three games, 10 and 2. If not, 7 and 5.
For the record, I'll go with 7 and 5.

Jim Hovey (WI 1962)



Bill:

Here it is. Remember where you heard it.
Everyone is raving about the WVU offense and rightfully so. It could be the best in the league, but they must increase their 3rd down conversions. Last year, it was around 32%. The more times we snap the ball on offense, the more the defense can rest. In my opinion, the tops 3 finishers---Oklahoma, WV, TCU. We get 2 of them at home
Downside? Our last 3 games are Oklahoma, Ok State and TCU.
10-2 is possible, but the champ will have to win two of 3
In the final 3 weeks.
I’LL GO OUT ON THE LIMB 10-2.

Rich Newbrough (BHS 1955)



Bill:

I have been trying to rationalize a prediction for the WVU Mountaineers upcoming season, but my prediction of 8 wins (4 losses) is solely based on Grier being healthy all year, which must equate to at least one more win than last year.

Stu Cashman (LaSalle HS, Niagara Falls, NY 1956)



Bill:

With Heisman candidate Grier at QB and an All-American WR in Sills, WVU should be able to have a successful season in the Big XII. But, we still have to have a decent O-line for the running game and decent D-backs. I am excited about this season, since we all like to win. However, Holgs has never been OK with me as HC. He always manages to screw up a couple of games we should have won. And he has never developed a QB from scratch for back-up, if needed. The key is Tennessee.
Put me down for 10-2, at least. Gooooo Mountaineers!!!!!!!!!!!

Don Sager (Alta Vista, CJHS, WI 1956, WVU 1964)




So, there you have it. As you can see, there is not a lot of agreement from our readers on just how the Mountaineers will do. Perhaps, that is the way it should be. Dana Holgorsen's teams have not been the picture of consistency over the years, so, who knows?

I've had the advantage of seeing all of the predictions, but that has not made it any easier to figure how this team will do. *However, based on my best unscientific guess, I'll go with a final record of 8-4. I hate to be a pessimist, because my gut tells me this could be the best team since 2007. However, the lack of experience in the secondary forces me to think that they will lose to NC State, Texas and Oklahoma. The other loss will be to either Iowa State or Oklahoma State. Like other readers, I fear that injuries to key personnel could ruin the season. 

Finally, I feel this could be Holgorsen's chance to solidify his job. 9 or 10 wins would do it. An undefeated season and a spot in the playoffs would earn him a long-term contract, if he didn't leave for greener ($$$) pastures. Regardless, I can't wait to see how this team performs.

Thanks to all those who sent me their predictions. GO MOUNTAINEERS!!!

Bill Meredith (Monongah HS 1957)










From: John Teter (WI 1961)

I can remember my favorite car like it was yesterday. It was my first car, but I do not think that is the reason that it was my favorite. It was a BRAND NEW 1965 Chevrolet Impala Super Sport, white, with blue interior, a manual 3-speed transmission, and a 327 engine. I went back home to WV from Virginia and ordered the car from the Chevrolet dealer in Buckhannon, as the prices in this area were way too high for my budget. The day that I received a phone call telling me that my car had arrived, I also got a draft notice in the mail to report to the draft board in Clarksburg for my physical to go into the service.
I arrived in Clarksburg; went for my physical the next day; then my mother drove me to Buckhannon to pick up my new car which was parked in the showroom with a big SOLD sign on it.  I went in, signed all of the necessary paperwork; paid for the car and returned to Virginia. I later received my physical notice in the mail and I was declared Y, as I had had a kidney operation back in 1959 or 60. This kidney issue kept me from playing basketball and football my junior and senior years at WI, and it also kept me from going into the service.
I LOVED THAT 1965 Chevrolet Impala Super Sport, even though I had only driven a standard transmission once prior to my picking up the car. I drove that car out of the showroom at the dealership in Buckhannon, and left tire marks on the floor as I "peeled out" - not for showing off purposes, but because I was just not that well aware of how to drive a standard transmission car and/or dealing with the clutch. I kept that car for two years; went thru 3 clutches and 3 transmissions. I finally traded it in for a 1966 Oldsmobile. I tried to buy back that Chevrolet, but found out that the person that had bought it had driven it thru a barn at 110 miles per hour. I only kept the Oldsmobile for one year before my Aunt Kathryn bought it from me. I then bought a 1967 Mustang.




From Ron Harvey (WI 1955)

My first car was a 1950 Crosley (yes that is me with the car). It was purchased in 1952 at a car lot in Stealey on the corner of Milford Street and North Ave. The cost was $387.50. It was seen around "WI" for 2 or 3 years until one night it caught on fire and it burned so badly that it was no longer usable. The Crosley was a small car, but got very good gas millage. It was light enough that someone could lift it by any one wheel by himself. That is why it was found on the Horner Street sidewalk behind the school. Celebrities that got to ride in the car were Mr. Frederick (American History) and Ms. Robinson (Commercial Branches). It was a good car.


From: Marty Ashland (WI 1959)


1st car - 1935 Lafayette Coupe with a rumble seat. Bought it, worked on it,
ran out of money garaged it. Went to the garage a year later. The garage was
empty, the car was gone, the garage owner was gone and I never saw it again.
If you know who has it, I have the original title if they want it.



2nd car - 1956 Mercedes Benze 190 SL Roadster Convertible with a removable
hard top. Blown engine, rebuilt it, dragged it all over the country but never
did complete it, finally Judy said "NO MORE."
So out of fear and self-preservation I just sold it. Major loss.



3rd car - 1956 MGA Roadster. Bought in Parkersburg drove to Clarksburg and
turned it over on an icy road to Fairmont. Rebuilt it, drove it for a while and
left it with a neighbor for a couple weeks while I moved to Ohio. Came back
2 weeks later. Car was gone and neighbor had died. Never saw it again. I also
have the original title for this one if someone needs it.



4th car current project - Fiberglas replica 1929 Mercedes Benz
The donor car is a 1992 ISUZU Pick Up Truck, with a 4-cylinder fuel injected engine and auto transmission. All mechanical parts rebuilt or replaced. Hope to have it finished by 2041 on my 100th birthday?






LARRY SMITH
(WI 1964)

Larry Neil Smith, 71, of Oakland, Maryland, died on Tuesday, June 12, 2018, at his home. Born on August 31, 1946, in Clarksburg, WV, he was the son of the late Leroy Clarence and Lumarylan (Maculey) Smith. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Jeremy Gilbert (Jamie) Smith. Larry was a graduate of Fairmont State College and was retired from the Maryland State Police having served 25 years as TFC with 9 years on road patrol and 16 years with K-9 and Search & Rescue. He also worked Homeland Security for the Garrett County Sheriff’s Department and had retired as co-owner and builder of E & S Construction. He was a life-member of the Oakland #2481 Elks Lodge and had served as PER and then Treasurer, until his death. He was also a life-member of the Deer Park Sportsman’s Club, a member of the American Legion Post #71, the Little Horn Hunting Camp and F.O.P. Lodge #40. He was a member of the Methodist Church. Larry was a pilot, and his greatest joy was his blue & white Cessna and his Harley. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and enjoyed reading westerns and watching them on TV. Larry was a great “Pappaw” and absolutely loved taking his grandchildren and later great-grandchildren to the candy store. He is survived by his loving wife of almost 51years, Sandra (Sandi) (Fox); sons, Michael & wife Shawn and Larry T. (Tommy) and wife Jodi, all of Oakland, Maryland, and a daughter-in-law, Kerri Smith Ashby, North Carolina. Grandchildren;
Melinda Smith-Pritt and husband Brandon, Laura, Lindsey, Tori, Ryan, Amber, Ashley Johnson and husband Cody, Megan and Anthony. Great grandchildren; Raelynn Michael Smith-Pritt, McKinley Finn Smith-Pritt and William Thomas Johnson. He is also survived by a brother, Loren K. and wife Donna of West Union and a niece and nephew. Interment was in the Bray Cemetery near his son.


GUYANN DOTSON CUNINGHAM
(Roosevelt Wilson High School 1963)

Guyann Cunningham, 73, of Nutter Fort, passed away on Thursday, August 23, 2018 at her residence. She was born in Doddridge County on October 18, 1944, a daughter of the late Reverend Louis H. and Veda L. Stutler Dotson.
She was married to Terry J. Cunningham on January 5, 1990, who preceded her in death on February 14, 2014.
Surviving are one son, Greg Ashcraft and his wife Tammy of Jackson, NJ; one daughter, Marla Critchfield and her husband Scott of Anmoore; four grandchildren, Brittany Ashcraft, Shannon Ashcraft, Keith Richison and Luke Stephens; one brother, Sandy Dotson and his wife Ann of Clarksburg; many nieces, nephews and cousins whom she loved; one sister-in-law, Denise McAtee and husband Dave of Salem; brother-in-law, Phil Cunningham and his daughter Katy of Sardis; and her mother-in-law, Joyce Keith and her husband Bob of Clarksburg.
She was also preceded in death by one sister, Frenna Jean Joseph and her husband Bernard.
Mrs. Cunningham was a 1963 graduate of Roosevelt Wilson High School and was employed at Anchor Hocking Glass Factory for 2 years before working as a meat cutter at Foodland for 14 years. She was a member of the First Baptist Church of Nutter Fort and love


CAROLYN SUE WHITE RECTOR
(WI 1959)

Carolyn Sue Rector August 29, 1941-August 21, 2018. She was married to Bob Rector (WI 1959) She was a teacher by profession. They resided in Sarasota, Florida.



BARBARA GROSSA FERRARO

On Thursday, August 23, 2018, Barbara Ann "Bobbie" Ferraro passed away at the age of 80. Bobbie was born on January 29, 1938, the eldest of the four children of Metro and Anna Grossa. She grew up in Anmoore, West Virginia and attended Catholic Grammar School and Bridgeport High School. In three years, she earned a four-year degree in education from Fairmont State. In 1959, she married her high school sweetheart, Dave Ferraro. Bobbie and Dave moved twelve times across eight states before making their home in Memphis.
Bobbie embraced Memphis and became active in the community serving as an officer in the St. Agnes and St. Dominic's Mother's Clubs, a member of the Arawata Garden Club and the volunteer coordinator at St. Peter Manor. She was a devoted member of Madonna Circle for 40 years and held the offices of Finance Chairman, Treasurer and President. When she was president in 1999, Madonna Circle raised over $100,000 for the Exchange Club Family Center.
Bobbie was passionate about music. She loved Elvis, the Memphis Symphony, chamber music, Jimmy Buffett and sweating to the oldies. She opened her home for chamber music concerts and served on the board of the University of Memphis School of Music.
A true animal lover, Bobbie adopted, loved and cared for many stray animals. She especially loved her namesake dog, Barbara Ann. Bobbie loved cooking, baking, entertaining, and decorating for the holidays. She had the largest collection of Santa Clauses south of the North Pole. A true fashionista, Bobbie inspired everyone to wear a tiara as often as possible. She had a big personality and a big house full of big fun. She welcomed friends into her family. Her greatest joy was spending time with her grandchildren: Jack, Monica, Joey and Jacob.
Bobbie was a funny, warm, overly generous, and fiercely loyal wife, mother, grandmother and friend. She will be missed by her husband of 59 years, Dave; their three children, Stephanie Nash (John); Stacy Ferraro; and David Ferraro, Jr.; (Janette), and her grandchildren. Also surviving are Bobbie's sister, Sonja Alvaro (Jim) and brother, Patrick Grossa (Joyce). Bobbie's parents and her brother, Metro, Jr., preceded her in death.