THE WI NEWSLETTER 01/09

THE WI NEWSLETTER


Editor: Roleta Smith Meredith Issue 113 January 2009





EDITOR’S NOTE: I could have written this one!

IT'S WINTER BEFORE WE KNOW IT....
Author: Unknown


You know, time has a way of moving quickly and catching you unaware of the passing years.

It seems just yesterday I was young, just married and embarking on my new life with my mate. And yet in a way, it seems like eons ago, and I wonder where all the years went. I know I lived them all. And I have glimpses of how it was back then and visions of all my hopes and dreams. But, here it is...the winter of my life and it catches me by surprise. How did I get here so fast? Where did the years go and where did my babies go? And where did my youth go?

I remember well seeing older people (like my grandparents and their friends) through the years and thinking those older people were years away from me and winter was so far off I could not fathom it or even imagine fully what it would be like, but here it is. My friends are retired and they are really getting gray; they move slower and I see an older person now who is in better shape than me, but I still see in them great changes. They are not like the people I remember who were young and vibrant, but like me, their age is beginning to show and we are all now those older folks we used to see and never thought we'd be.

Each day now, I find just taking a shower is a real chore for the day! And taking a nap is not a treat anymore, it's mandatory! Because if I don't nap on my own free will, I will fall asleep wherever I sit too long!

And so, now I enter into this new season of my life unprepared for all the aches and pains, the loss of strength and the loss of ability to do things I wish I had done but never did!!

But at least for certain, though the winter has arrived and I'm not sure how long it will last, this I know, when it's over it's over. Yes, I have regrets. There are things I wish I hadn't done and things I should have done, but indeed there are many things I'm happy to have done. It's all in a lifetime....

If you're not in your winter yet, let me remind you it will be here faster than you think. So whatever you would like to accomplish in your life please do it quickly! Don't put things off too long!!

Life goes by quickly, do what you can today because you can never be sure whether you'll reach your winter or not!

You have no promise that you will see all the seasons of your life. Live to the fullest today and say all the things you want your loved ones to remember, and hope they appreciate and love you for all the things you have done for them in all the years gone by.

"Life is a gift to you. The way you live your life is your gift to those who come after. Make it a fantastic gift."

LIVE YOUR LIFE WELL!!----ENJOY TODAY!!!!-----DO SOMETHING FUN!!!----BE HAPPY!!!----BE THANKFUL!!!!!




Come one, come all to the annual Clarksburg Picnic on March 7, 2009 at Twin Lakes Park in Sarasota, Florida.

We gather around 11:00 to visit. We later have a grand meal….even with hot dogs and all the trimmings! The gathering usually lasts until around 4:00 and then people start drifting away. Some gather around their motel pool with other friends and some go to dinner together at a local restaurant, others load up in their cars and travel home. Sarasota is located about 1 hour south of Tampa and about 1 hour (or less) from Ft. Myers. It is only a 4 hour drive from the east coast…..about a 2 hour drive from Orlando. So anyone in the state can make the trip for the day or make motel reservations and stay a night or two.

Each family brings a covered dish and their own drinks. Everything else is provided. We pass the hat to help cover expenses.

At the picnic, some people have reacquainted with old friends, neighbors from childhood, relatives, team mates or opponents. Stories are told and retold. Mark your calendar and plan to attend. The drawing for the WIN Quilt will be done at the picnic. Get your tickets now or at the picnic. The cost of the tickets are 6 for $5.00.

The motel that most everyone stayed at last year was the Country Inn and Suites on Clark Road. All seemed to like it. The people there were very nice. Fred Alvaro spoke with the manager of the motel on Monday January 5, 2009 and he reported the following:

The best I could do was $129.00 for a room with 2 doubles or a king at Country Inn and Suites because of the season. I also checked a couple others and the best was this. Let the people know to call in as soon as possible and ask for the Clarksburg Group. She did emphasize 'as soon as possible'. Do not call the toll-free number. Call (941) 925-0631


DID YOU KNOW ABOUT THIS? I DIDN’T!
"How Did Santa Claus Become Part of Christmas?"
THOSE WHO ATTENDED WI MIGHT BE VERY INTERESTED!

submitted by: Pat Elder (ND '57)
St1pat@aol.com

Who was Washington Irving?? My wife Joan showed me this--a good girl from Cleveland, nonetheless. It was written by David Cooney, San Francisco, entitled "How did Santa Claus come to be part of Christmas?"

"Around the year 310 C.E., Nicholas was the bishop of Myra in today's Turkey. As a rule, priests are not rich men. But they used to be. Nicholas used his own wealth to buy people out of slavery. He saved a lot of children in this way. After his death, the Roman Catholic Church made him a saint; Dec. 6 was Saint Nicholas Day and children were given gifts to remember his famed generosity. He was very popular and he became a big hero, a mega-star. Then in the 1500's, big protest movements split the Catholic Church into different faiths."

" Some protesters, or Protestants, didn't believe in saints. But St. Nicholas was such a hero mega-star that people held onto his memory by creating new characters based on him, like Father Christmas or Pe're Noe"l.

When Dutch Settlers got to America in the 1600's, they brought their hero with them. Bad pronunciation of Saint Nicholas changed his name to Sinta Claes. In 1812 the first artist got involved. He was the writer Washington Irving. He wrote a book of political satire that talked a lot about Sinta Claes, or Santa Claus, and made up stories about him flying in a wagon to give out presents."

Now, my question is this. How many of you who went to W.I. knew all about this? Did you have any courses or seminars in school that taught you the history of Washington Irving?? I would hope that this might start a little dialogue through this newsletter on just who Washington Irving was & what else did he do? Why was the High School named after him?? When did he die? Where was he from--where did he live & where is he buried? What were his best works--his worst? Etc.,etc., etc.

EDITOR’S NOTICE: Write what you know about Washington Irving to me for a discussion on this in the February or March newsletter.


COLLECTIONS


The picture above is a “Stone Soup Santa” which I purchased for myself as a Christmas present in 2007—it’s name is “Never Enough Bears” and if you look closely you will see he has 11 bears climbing around on him and sitting on his sled. He is entirely hand made and the bears are very plush. This Bear display is kept in the top of my closet all covered up except from Thanksgiving until mid January when he sits on the breakfast table.

submitted by: Roleta Smith Meredith (WI '59)
Roleta1@aol.com

I have heard that if you have more than 3 of any one type of item, you are a collector. So look around your house, I bet you will be amazed at what you collect! I became a collector long before I even remember. My first collection when I was very small was miniature pitchers but I have given most of them away now and no longer collect them. I did have a bell collection but also tired of it and gave most of them away. I think I got tired of washing, dusting and cleaning them and found they didn’t give me much pleasure just work! But one collection I have had for years is a thimble collection which has grown so much that now they are safe in a closet waiting for me to sometime get a couple of thimble display racks to hang on my wall. My father had made me one but I outgrew it long ago. Friends and relatives get me thimbles when they travel because they are small to transport and they aren’t real expensive. I too add to the collection when we travel…it is a good way to remember travels.

I guess the collection that captured my heart is my teddy bear collection. Before I sold my home in Ohio, I had over 150 teddy bears. At Christmas, in our breakfast room, I had a 7 foot Christmas tree with lights on which I placed many of my little bears and I even have a little bear who wears a star costume and he was the tree topper. When we sold the house, I gave away most of the bears, and told Bill that I wasn’t taking any bears to Florida as we didn’t have the room in the house for them. However, when we arrived in Florida and I started to unpack boxes, much to my surprise, I found about 40 of those bears had stowed away in different boxes and moved here too. See, they loved me as much as I loved them and we just couldn’t be apart. Now a lot of the bears are displayed on the top of the cabinets here in our den. The bears have personality. I am only attracted to different bears. Ones with cute faces! Not cookie cutter type bears. Most of my bears are Boyd’s brand bears. I receive bears from friends and I name them after the people who give them to me. Or I will name it after the town where I buy it, or if the bear reminds me of someone. For instance, I was shopping with a lady one day—she was a “whiner” I saw a bear who shined (like a baby doll) when you turned it over, I named it after her. LOL. One time, I was in Clarksburg and went in a shop. I was looking at the bears, a salesclerk ask me if she could help me, I told her, “Not yet, wait until one of those bears speaks to me”. She looked at me like I was loony and my 2 granddaughters who were traveling with us laughed. (They had heard this before from NaNa!) I bought a little boy Boyd bear in bib overalls and his name is Clark. I have a Nicholas bear because he is dressed like a golfer and Jack Nicholas was from the Columbus, Ohio area. I don’t like Beany Bears as they all look alike, they just have different clothing. I have a darling Fuzzy bear Named “Fuzzy” and his cousin lives at my sister’s house. Fuzzy used to write letters to his cousin…we had fun with that for awhile. One is Waldo (due to his “Where is Waldo” sweater), one is DeeDee (because a friend gave it to me), one is Felisha, I have a Mary, Fred, and several named “Sissy”, and the named ones go on….Oh, I have one that has a small tape recorder in it’s center, my sister sent ma a personal Birthday message one time---it is precious to me. I think teddy bears are fun, I believe Bill now thinks they are an invasion! LOL

Now a point that you may have missed in the last 9-1/2 years of the newsletter, if you looked closely at the graphics that my high school buddy and still good friend, Judy Daugherty Kimler, places in the newsletter, you may have noticed that there are often teddy bears scattered throughout the newsletter but there has always been one at the very end of the newsletter! She does this just for me! Thanks Judy for all the bears you have given me in the newsletter over the years, I love them….they are our LOGO!



My largest bear is a Boyd’s bear named “Dickens”. (about 4 ft. tall—shipped as a surprise to me from my sister). He comes to visit for Christmas, other than that, he stays in our rented storage space. When we lived in Ohio he sat under our open stairway in our family room and the grandchildren would pull him out, jump on him, lay on him when watching TV, or sit on his lap. He did move to Florida with me, I just couldn’t part with him, there are too many good memories connected with him.


submitted by: Penny Christie Johnson (WI '60)
penem@nc.rr.com

Hi Roleta,
I have several collections but my Reamer or Juicer collection might be different for most of your readers....I started collecting them about 15 years ago....The one shown above is a very inexpensive depression glass one that goes for about $6.00 on e-bay.There are some very unique painted reamers with tops on them...They sell for $300.00 and up. I am sure that people from our era will remember the white milk glass ones that had Sunkist on the side...I have about 30 in my collection and they are displayed in an open vintage corner cupboard that I bought out in Bridgeport at an antique store 40 years ago...My girls tell me not to leave the reamers to them in my will..They don't seem to appreciate their beauty as much as I do. LOL

I also collect Santa's, Old Dishes, and other antiques...When we moved from CT to NC we gave away or sold lots of "stuff" since we don't have an attic or a basement here...I am a primitive rug artisan and love to collect wools....I keep expanding that collection and have one closet filled with all the extra patterns, wools and books.

A Happy New Year to one and all and God Bless.


submitted by: Joanne Cowgill Stonestreet Post (WI '64)
bluegrassposts@msn.com

I have had several collections over the years but my two favorites are my monkey collection and my Boyds Bears collection. I also have a dog collection since I have 4 dogs and only 1 cat.

I'm not sure what side or area of town we lived in was called. We lived on Denham Street off of Clay Street and ran around with kids on Thompson, Cove Court and Flynn street also. They were the good old days for sure. You left your doors unlocked and windows open all the time.

My son graduated in 88 and his nickname was Spaz aka Michael Stonestreet and he grew up in Stealey and his Email is ( mikeyjr@neo.rr.com ) My daughter, Rhonda Stonestreet, would have graduated in 86 but went to Florida for a few years and her Email is ( sleepyhead411@aol.com ). They would like to start getting the WI newsletter.

Thanks and have a wonderful MERRY CHRISTMAS, Joanne


submitted by: Diana Shablack Sandy (WI '69)
Icedteedee@aol.com

I have a small collection of mini shoes. For 12 years, I worked as the secretary/bookkeeper for the Larry's Shoe Stores in Jacksonville, FL and was able to get all my shoes at cost. Not quite Imelda Marcos, but pretty close. Collecting these mini's reminded me of my shoe business days and some of the styles are identical to shoes I wore.




submitted by: Bob Teter (WI '60)
bteter@chartern.net

I really never intended to collect much of anything although I remember a significant collection of baseball cards that we all used to trade that went away at some point in my life. At any rate I now have two collections only because I needed something to do during my wife's 'antiquing' outings. As such I have accumulated a number of old Kodak cameras. Not sure how many but I only look for those I do not have presently, duplicates not allowed. A number were mine, others have been given to me by friends, etc., some who, like me used to work for the little "yellow box" company. Included are some old Kodak artifacts that are photography related, but not cameras, i.e. timers, projectors, advertisements, and supplies of sorts.

The other collection is simply old golf 'stuff'. This collection is a real hodge podge of items from a few clubs and bags etc. to oddities I have found over the years, including an indoor driving practice range, which is quite unusual as there is no net, yet you can really take a full swing at a real golf ball! It is called "Folda FAIRWAY". I look for unusual stuff mostly.


submitted by: Joanne Westfall Simpson/Tetrick (WI '52)
fragilegranny@ma.rr.com

Quite a few years I began a mouse collection. I would shop for my mice wherever I might be visiting or traveling. And of course, I had a "Mouse House" for them to be displayed. Some were quite expensive and others were very cheap. It didn't matter the cost, they just needed to have personality. About ten years ago, I lost interest in them and gave the mice and their house to my Grandaughter, Samantha.

I had for many years adored giraffes and decided to collect them instead. I have quite a "herd" and they go from tiny to rather large. Some are crystal, others are ceramic, pewter, brass, wood and I even have one that is "stuffed". I adore the eyes on giraffes and their long eyelashes. I also have seen them give birth and the babies drop to the ground while their Mothers are standing up!!! Last year while traveling in the West, we visited with my Aunt & Uncle in Palm Desert, CA. We went to the "Living Desert" and enjoyed them in their "natural" habitat. The boy giraffes tend to the little ones more than the females. I was able to feed one of the adults. They have a long purple tongue and were gentle taking the food.

Once again, Thank You, Roleta and Judy for the hard work you put into these Newsletters. I wish you both the Merriest of Christmases and a Peace filled 2009.


submitted by: Don Sager (WI '56)
forwvu@sc.rr.com

If having more than 3 of anything qualifies as a collection, then I have a few collections going. However, I am only mentioning my largest and the one most “near and dear”.

I once saw the term—Monkabelia—written down somewhere. It was defined as the collection of items relating to religious Monks, Friars etc. When asked why I collect these items ? I am not sure. My first “Monk” was a St. Francis statue given to us by my daughter’s Godmother, Laura, in Dallas. We lived in Dallas in the early ‘70s and attended St. Francis Episcopal Church. Moreover, like St. Francis, I too love animals and have always enjoyed reading stories and mysteries mentioning religious figures. I loved Robin Hood movies as a kid and especially Friar Tuck. As we moved from Dallas, to Detroit, to Ft. Wayne, to Dayton, to the D.C. area and onto South Carolina, I enjoyed shopping and searching in small towns, shops, homes, fields and in antique stores to add to my collection. You have to search hard for Monks. And yes, to Kitty’s joy, I have finally run out of room (maybe). My collection consists of wooden and porcelain statues, paintings, prints, dishes, mugs, plates, beer steins, wine bottles, knick-knacks and a carved oak Tavern Chair. Friends and co-workers gave many of these to me. In addition, each one has “a story”. My collection consists of roughly 125 items. The photo below with me holding the 1st Monk will give you a feel for “Don’s Monks”.




submitted by: Sandra Zickefoose Lindke (WI '56)
alindke@tampabay.rr.com

You hit a bulls eye with that suggestion. My husband says that I have cornered the market on McCoy pottery. I have 8 pitcher and bowl sets, a complete blue speckle ware coffee set and numerous mixing bowls.

Fenton glass made in WV is another of my passions. We toured the factory and store a few years ago and I bought my first piece. It is a purple vase with flowers painted on it. Now I have a set of ginger jars and a bud vase that are signed and hand painted. I also have 7 pieces that were manufactured in the 1940's. There are also a blue basket and vase in the Fenton collection. It is fun to go to a flea market and look for pieces to add to my collections.

As you know Roleta, I also collect quilts. Two are very special because they were hand embroidered and hand quilted by my late mother. I have another quilt that was purchased in Dolly Wood. It is called the "Life of Christ" quilt and the squares depict the life of Christ. The squares are hand painted instead of embroidery.

Our best wishes to all for 2009. God Bless America. We are going thru a rough period in this country but we will prevail.


submitted by: Billie Anne Cork Clevenger (WI '52)
Iamblessed3452@aol.com

I have two collections, neither of which are voluminous, but both of which are very meaningful to me. While it is very touching to receive an item for one's collection as a gift. It can be dangerous to let loved ones know about your collection. This can backfire and you can end up with Care Bears or old license plates overflowing from closets, cupboards, your attic, garage and every corner of your once neat abode! However, this has never happened me. I still revel in the thrill of receiving a lighthouse ornament or a china "hand bell" for my limited, though very special collections.

My bell collection is made up of exactly 16 hand bells at the present time, each of which has a special meaning to me. I began my collection after discovering two meaningful bells at a rummage sale which was being held by my daughter, Leslie, to help to pay for a trip to Nashville that she was sponsoring for her country dance class. They matched, except that one was inscribed "West Virginia" and the other "South Carolina", my two favorite states, WV, my "Almost Heaven" home and beloved South Carolina, where I had so many wonderful Southern friends during the 8 years that my children and I lived there. (However, the SC bell is the only one that has been broken beyond repair.)

I have 3 that I purchased myself, my "Currier & Ives" snow scene bell, and a beautiful Christmas one, dark blue in color, that, coincidentally, has a lighthouse on it, and a white china bell with 3 dimensional china roses and latticework (bought at a Family Dollar Store for $2.00!).

A 7 inch high brass bell with a mahogany handle, (a typical old fashioned "dinner bell", given by Leslie), and by far the largest and most elegant looking of the collection, also from Les, a white china 8 inch high beauty, encrusted with tiny pearls around the bottom and the handle, with two 3D doves lighting on its surface and on the bell itself, a heart shaped window and inside: beautiful praying hands, another favorite of mine and the subject of a poem I wrote when I was very young, called (appropriately!) "Praying Hands".

I line these bells up on a shelf of my dining room hutch in order of their size, so that one comes first. To shorten this, I will name the others and the beloved person whom it brings to my mind:
Cabo San Lucas bell: Leslie & Bryan Bond, Lyndsi Moore.
Amish Country bell: My best friend, Rennah Shaffer.
Hawaiian bell, Leslie, Bryan & Lyndsi again.
Aquarium bell: My daughter Lori and her precious boys, who love aquariums, especially the one at the Outer Banks, where I bought the bell, while there with them.
A very small bell with little pink roses on it: My dear, dear friend of 27 years, Dorothy, to whom it belonged before her passing.

Then there are the two very thrilling brass bells with special meanings, one a replica of the Eiffel Tower. "La Tour Eiffel", I believe is the French name for it, (recalling a teensy of Yvonne Tiennebrunne's French class!) This was a very thoughtful gesture typical of my son Morgan. (stepson, but definitely my beloved son, as well as his Father's). His job at SIFE in Springfield, MO takes him to many exotic places in the world and Paris and Poland yielded bells for my collection!

The Poland bell is inscribed with "Warsaw" and "Poland on one side and Warszawa and Polska on the other. It is actually the most unique of all of them, being the only one with a "moving part"! Leave it to the Polish designers to create such a beautifully designed piece of memorabilia!

I also have one pretty crystal bell that I rescued from a rummage sale - no one wanted it because it had lost its "clapper" so now it has a home.

Last, but not least, is the tiniest bell of all, a brass one that is deceptive in that, when rung, it gives out a surprisingly LOUD tinkle. It was given to me by an old friend and later I gave it to my Mom in her last illness when she was confined to her bed and I was caring for her. I told her to rattle it LOUDLY if she needed me when I was in other parts of the house and she did. I am brought to tears when I look at it and the memories come flooding back.

I have a special affinity for lighthouses because of my Christian faith. To me, the sight of a towering lighthouse standing on the shore of the mighty sea, shedding its warning lights as the wave’s crash upon the shore, a beacon in the night, brings thoughts of our Savior, Jesus Christ. He too is forever strong and mighty, standing on the shores of life, lovingly guiding His ships tossing, in the storms of life, safely to their harbor. We are the ships, He is the lighthouse. I cannot hear the beautiful song, "The Lighthouse" without shedding tears of joy at the realization that we, His servants, are so blessed to have such a loving Savior who knows our every need and responds when we are obedient to His calling.

I have two beautiful lighthouse pictures hanging on my living room wall, gifts from two of my children, two views of the very same lighthouse. One is from my much loved son Bryan and my sweet daughter-in-law Shari. The other is a gift from another thoughtful son that God gave to me as my stepson eight and a half years ago when I married his widowed father, also very dear to my heart. (the Father and the Son, as well as the picture!)

Then of course, there are the lighthouse Christmas ornaments, supplied by my beautiful daughters, Leslie Bond and Lori Smith, with one also from my son Morgan. Then there is the lovely LH cookie jar, from son Duane and daughter-in-law Margie. Margie has always had a talent for appropriate gifts and also gave me a blue, very cozy sweatshirt bearing a lighthouse picture.

One Christmas a few years ago, Margie gave me a sort of a sculpture of a lighthouse sitting high on a hillside, with a small house beside it. What was unique about it is probably an accident. It is lit within with a light that lights up the top of the lighthouse and also the tiny house. But the unique part is, that I have it (in the bathroom once again!) on the highest part of the brass shelving that surrounds the toilet and each time someone jars the shelves or bangs the toilet lid down, the lights begin to blink! Scares guests to death, but to me, it is kind of humorous and yet sort of spiritual. (If that makes any sense!)

And then there is the replica of the Cape Hatteras lighthouse which graces the top of my entertainment center, given to me by my dear neighbor, Carolyn.

And the BIG musical lighthouse with the blinking light thoughtfully given to me by my other kind and sweet stepson, Duane which touched my heart for Duane was then living with us during a sad time in his life.

I have a smaller replica of the Hatteras lighthouse in my kitchen window, which I bought at a souvenir shop on Hatteras Island while vacationing at the Outer Banks with my precious daughter Lori and her family.

I also purchased small pictures of the four famous light houses of the Outer Banks while there and later framed them to hang on my bathroom wall, along with a larger lighthouse painting on the opposite wall.

Lest you should get the idea that I am obsessed, I won't mention the lighthouse bathroom accessories (shower curtain, soap dispenser, toothbrush holder, rug, and of course, no lighthouse bathroom would be complete without an LH toilet bowl brush holder!) And, oh yes! The lovely lighthouse picture made as a fabric collage, bearing the inscription, "We may not see the path, but THE ONE who leads us knows the way", a very precious gift from thoughtful Leslie.

Also, some light house plaques from my dear friend Tonia Maxwell. The rug at the entrance to my home has a lighthouse on it, also. And, oh! I didn't mention my two lighthouse flags, one of which has the Hatteras lighthouse on it and the inscription, "Outer Banks". Leslie also gave me a brand new lighthouse flag last Christmas, along with numerous remembrances of the season.

I actually didn't realize how many I had until I began to list them, and I am sure I have inadvertently omitted some! Believe it or not, they don't seem to dominate our small home, but they are a wonderful reminder, not only of my dear Lord and how He loves and protects us, but of my many other matchless blessings, my beloved family and friends.

LINK TO SONG, "THE LIGHTHOUSE"

"Click here: The Lighthouse...Song with Lyrics and Sung by Sweet Presence Gospel Singers"




THE QUILT



Above is one of the quilt squares that will be part of the 2009 Quilt. This square was made by Barbara Yeager Charles (not a Clarksburg native) who married Joe Charles (Bridgeport HS 1955)……….Thanks Barbara for helping the ladies make this beautiful quilt to benefit the WIN Scholarship.

submitted by: Sue Selby Moats (WI '55)
moatsue@aol.com

Now that the Holiday RUSH is over, I can concentrate on putting the 2009 WIN Scholarship quilt blocks together and get the quilt ready for the Clarksburg/Sarasota Picnic on March 7, 2009 in Sarasota, Florida.

The Clarksburg Quilting Ladies (Carolyn Cady, Mary Liz Carder, Barb Charles, Carol Dean, Sharon Kinney, Sue Moats, Mary Nophsker, Elaine Norteman, Kitty Sager, Mary Sue Spahr, Lin Stricker, Mary Ann Williams) have created some great star blocks which will be put together with a mottled dark blue sky-like fabric to give the impression of fireworks on the Fourth of July. How many of you can remember being up on either Bridgeport or Lowndes Hills and watching fireworks?

Some of you have already sent generous checks to Roleta for the scholarship and she has forwarded your request for chances on the quilt to me. Again, since the Holidays are over now, I will be sending out your ticket stubs (or holding them until the Picnic as instructed by you and/or Roleta.)

This is such a great chance for us to help Roleta provide scholarship money to some deserving RCB HS students. The amount raised by the 3 previous WIN quilts has increased each year, so despite the Market Crunch on all our pensions, let's see how much better we can do this year!

Get your tickets for the 4th annual WIN Quilt which will be given away at the Clarksburg Picnic held in Sarasota, Florida on March 7, 2009. All profit from the sale of tickets goes to the WI Newsletter scholarship fund. This is a major yearly fund raiser for the scholarship. We have given $11,000.00 to selected graduates from the consolidated high school ---R. C. Byrd High School. Last year we gave $3,000.00 to two different graduates. The tickets are: $1.00 for 1 ticket but 6 tickets for $5.00---and then in multiples to up to $500.00 worth of tickets may be bought. Just send your check or money order for your tickets to:

Roleta Meredith
3201 Charles MacDonald Drive
Sarasota, Florida 34240



THE PIZZA PLACE

THE VILLA

submitted by: Mike Blackshire (RW '59, WI '60, Graduated ND '63)
blackshire@ma.rr.com

The Villa, owned by Tony Romano, was across Main St. from the A&P. We spent many hours in The Villa—Juke Box, Pin Ball Machine, good cheap food and Tony. My brother, John Blackshire, worked at The Villa and I worked at Folio’s Gas Station (after Tony bought it) that was right beside The Villa (corner of Main & Monticello)----What a place—good memories—



submitted by: Vickie Zabeau Bowden (ND '73)
bahsofwv@ma.rr.com

I remember the restaurant across from the A&P store but can not remember what it was called in the 50's and 60's, however, in the 70's it was "DJ Taco's" and where I was formerly introduced to my husband Gary. It was the closing of their business and they were having a pizza party to celebrate. There was some planning behind the scenes for us to meet. I was already sitting at a booth and the owner Dan shoved a pizza and Dr. Pepper next to me and said, "Gary - you sit here!" ha! I have been asked many times how we met and that was it. ha! ....that's my story!



submitted by: Barbara Paugh Patton (WI '61)
BAP5555@aol.com

The Villa Pizzeria place was across from than A&P. A lot of their lunch crowd was from the Maidenform Company. Tony and Maxine Romano were the owners. They had one son. Maxine’s brother worked for them. They made great pizza. High School students from all the area schools came there. There was parking on the side and then a used car lot took all their parking spaces. That still did not stop his business. It was always crowded. Sitting in a booth with your friends and playing the juke box. It was a good place to see people from other schools. WI students who passed by on the way home stopped in everyday to catch up on the gossip of the day.



submitted by: Jim Selario (WI '67)
jim.selario@gmail.com

If I recall correctly the name of that restaurant was The Villa Pizzeria. I don't believe that I ever had the opportunity to eat there but I remember it from waiting for the city bus to go home from St. Mary's Grade School. It looked like a very rickety structure that could have fallen into Elk Creek at any time. I attended St. Mary's Grade School for 3 years then started Alta Vista in 4th Grade (a Broadoaksian).



submitted by: Elaine Zabeau Norteman (ND '62)
Enorteman@roadrunner.com

Dear Roleta,
When I was at Notre Dame the place I believe you are talking about across from the A&P grocery store was the Villa. We used to hang out there after football games. They had great hot dogs also. I have often thought of the place myself. It a wonder it didn't fall into the river/creek that ran along side.



submitted by: Lyle Corder RW '57)
WVLyle@aol.com

It was the Villa Pizzeria. Herb Cashdollar, Larry Johnston and I were regular customers. They had the best hoagies I have ever eaten. Actually, it was on the corner diagonal from the A and P. There were large billboards above it. The building is not there now. The owner of the Villa was a guy named Tony. His wife worked there too. She was a real beauty. We just happened to notice that.



submitted by: Jim Pulice (WI '62)
jpulice@msn.com

The name of the pizza place was The Villa. Many Broadway boys hung out there as well as Notre Dame and WI boys. My pal, John Blackshire, worked there briefly. I have fond memories of being there. I think the name of the owner was Tony. I remember sharing a lot of laughs with a regular, Jim Dennison a RW grad. Good times which are gone.



submitted by: Jay Sharp (WI '59)
Jsharp4740@aol.com

THE VILLA" was the name of the pizza shop across from the A&P on Main Street. I believe the word VILLA stands for farmhouse in Italian and I think the man who owned it was named Tony but I am not certain of that detail. It has been a long time. I can still remember coming home from Central Jr. and loafing around with John Blackshire and Parker Fulton and a lot of other Broad Oaks guys that spent time there.



THEY HAD THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT

Below is a list of the people who gave to the WIN Scholarship during the month of December. Each gift is certainly appreciated.

John Teter (WI 1961) again sent a generous check to the scholarship.

John Lee (WI 1965) sent a generous check in memory of KATHY SUTTER. John wrote : Kathy lived around the corner on Concord St. and the Lee Household was on Stanley Ave. in Goff Plaza. He said Kathy was a wonderful childhood friend and neighbor. He was saddened to hear of her passing…she was a great Kid.

Herb Cashdollar (RW 1954) sent a generous check to the scholarship

David Grimes (WI 1953) sent a generous check to the scholarship.

Jeanne Taylor Teter (WI 1956) sent a generous check in appreciation of her friends and classmates at WIHS. They can still make her laugh and that is worth a lot.

Alan Alvarez (WI 1958) sent a generous check to the scholarship in honor of each of his 3 grandchildren, Joey, Grace & George.

Dahrie Christiansen Hayman (WI 1964) sent a generous check to the scholarship in memory of her Grandmother Emma Axton and Mother Jean Axton Christiansen (WI 1937).

It isn’t too late for you to show you have the spirit.
Write your check to: Roleta Meredith c/o WIN Scholarship

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

Thank you for helping make this passion of paying forward a reality. Perhaps one day those who receive this award will pay it forward and help others. We are doing this to show our appreciation.



GUESS WHO?



Pictured above are 4 young men…Who are they?

TRIVIA QUESTION HAS 3 PARTS;

See if you can get any answer correct:
1. What was the name of the photo shop?
2. What are the names of the boys pictured?
3. What are the nicknames of each boy?

Tony Bellotte sent me the picture and we have decided to turn this into a Trivia picture.

There used to be a little photo shop on Pike Street (near the Sanitary Hot Dog Stand) and across from the pool rooms) where you could go in and have all kinds of pictures taken for a very minimal price (10 cents each) They had cut outs you could stick your head through and look like a cowboy, caveman, etc. I still have some of those. I can’t remember the name, can you? The picture above is one we guys took together when we were very young. We had a gang (or that is what we called it) and we were known to ourselves as “The River Rats”. Our most violent crimes consisted of taking apples off of the produce truck or finding people with peach trees and robbing them at night. We were really a very dangerous gang.

Write your guesses to Roleta1@aol.com



GRANDPARENTS

submitted by: Jody Buffington Aud (WI '77)
jbuffaud@comcast.net

From the day my parents were married in 1952, they lived with my father’s mother and his elderly deaf aunt. That’s the way it was for the next 30-odd years, I suppose. My great Aunt Marie finally passed away in 1988 – but not before making a profound impression on me and my sisters. Sure, she could make the best darn apple or cherry pie, fried potatoes and biscuits FROM SCRATCH(!!!), and iron a pair of pants to perfection. But, it wasn’t her culinary skills I remember most – it was her absolute joy in life! When I was a little girl, she made fresh cookies and tea for our tea parties. When I grew up, she learned how to play billiards, so we could play in the basement. We also loved to play cards – Go Fish was her absolute favorite.

Of all the qualities my parents instilled in me, it was having Aunt Marie always with me that has made me enjoy little things and to laugh at many things!

Until I went to college I had no idea that the living arrangements we had at my house – with an extended family – made me quite unique. I just always assumed that was that way ALL families lived. I wouldn’t trade my experience for anything in the world.



MEMORIES OF MY GRANDMOTHER
Emma Marie Axton

submitted by: Dahrie Christiansen Hayman (WI '64)
DHayman2@cfl.rr.com

Where to begin? My Grandmother lived her entire adult life at 846 Verdun Street in the Hartland section of Clarksburg. Although I was born and raised in Chicago, I believe I actually grew up in Clarksburg. My very first trip at three months of age was to visit my Grandmother. Beginning that year (1946), I spent nearly every summer in Clarksburg with her and my Aunt, as well as countless Easters, Thanksgivings, and Christmases. My Grandmother’s home seemed to be the family gathering place. There was always an abundance of aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. The ladies congregated in the kitchen and the men usually played poker in the “reception room.” No matter the occasion, and regardless of how many people were there, each time I walked through the front door of my Grandmother’s home, I knew there would be a big dish of her wonderful rice pudding waiting just for me. I was always her “helper” . . . baking pies, canning peaches, green beans, pickles, and tomatoes and making my favorite (cherry jelly). She taught me how to embroider and crochet, and she and I spent many happy hours on her favorite pastime – working jigsaw puzzles. On the warm spring and summer evenings, we would sit on her front porch, she in her rocking chair and me close by. It was in the summer of 1962 when our family moved to Clarksburg. Prior to taking residence in our own home, we lived with my Grandmother for a short time. I never missed a day where I either saw or spoke with her. Within a week of my graduation from WI in 1964, my family returned to Chicago. Shortly thereafter, I relocated to Virginia, where I began my career with the Federal government. Being so much closer to Clarksburg, I was able to visit my Grandmother every few months. Sadly, she passed away on December 30, 1974. She was an extraordinary woman and mere words can never describe how much I still miss her.



submitted by: Sara Stephenson Laber (WI '55)
laber@worldnet.att.net

My grandparents lived almost across the street--700 Milford Street where Milford and Hartland meet. It was a beautiful stone house w/5 bathrooms all different colors as well as one of them was square. Vermont slate roof.... Last I heard the condition was terrible. I believe it was in the late 80's that it was on the market for $40,000. But, even at that time, people were not moving back to Clarksburg.

My grandmother (Nine Pearl Stephenson) was one of the most important people in my childhood. As I recall, she did very little for me except let me come visit anytime to play or watch her work in her flower and vegetable gardens, maybe eat lunch. I would call out to my mother upon returning from school--I'm going to grandmother's. The peace I found going to grandmother's helped me survive difficult times at home and school. She died when I was 9 years old. For a long time, before I went to bed I would take a 8x10 picture of her upstairs to sleep with me. And, return it to the table downstairs in the morning.

Long after her death, I asked to borrow a locket from my aunt. My grandmother was wearing this locket in the photograph mentioned above. I've had my picture taken w/that locket. I have more recently had a picture of both of my daughters and granddaughter holding that locket. My aunt gave me the locket and I hope it travels through the generations with stories of what a fine person she was.

On a lighter side, my mother told me the story that my other grandmother asked her not to bring me (as a young child) to Parkersburg to visit because I was too skinny. My mother didn't listen. We usually traveled that long trip (4 hrs by car) or by train once a year.



submitted by: John Teter (WI '61)
jteter@balmar.com

I can remember my mother’s mother living with my parents, brother, sister and I during my tenure of living on Broaddus Avenue. It seems that she occupied one of the 3 bedrooms in the house, but I am not sure where that put my sister sleeping nights, but I am hoping that she will be writing and filling you in on this answer. She probably slept on the couch and/or daybed that we had in the dining room.

I can also remember my father’s parents living on Main Street in Bridgeport, as that house, yard and garden were the locations for many weekends. We would go over to their house on weekends and tend to the garden that was between the house and the garage. I can remember having many dinners at that house. At some point in my growing up, my grandmother Teter became disabled and occupied a bed in the front living room for many years. I really enjoyed visits to their house many weekend when my cousins and/or other relatives from Ohio were their for a visit. I go by the house now and the people that bought it from my Aunt have turned it into a business and have TOTALLY redone the outside of the house, including getting rid of the front porch where I spent many days watching traffic coming and going on Route 50 (Main Street).



HOOVER CHICKENS

submitted by: Doris Jean Walters Webster (WI '59)
Jeanwbstr@aol.com

I was reading the Newsletter today and I really enjoyed the "HUNTING IN OUR HILLS" article by Dave Bates. In his last line of the article, he stated "Oh yes! We hunted 'Hoover Chickens. WHAT ARE THEY?"

I would like to offer that the Gopher Turtle was also know as the "Hoover Chicken" during the Depression when many a hungry household ate them for food. I remember my Dad talking about them when I was little. Sometimes when my Mom would fix a fried chicken dinner, Dad would comment that her chicken was much better than those "Hoover Chickens" he used to eat as a kid. Of course, when my brother asked what a "Hoover Chicken" was, Dad told us that it was an adult Gopher Turtle just like the little baby turtles kids had as pets back then. I guess that is why I remember it so well. I used to have a "pet" baby gopher turtle.



FEELS LIKE OLD TIMES

How did people survive the great depression? Here is an article sent in from Buzzy Floyd, he found this in a recent Tampa On Line….

I have visited Arthurdale and driven through there many times. This is an interesting article.. http://www2.tbo.com/content/2008/dec/14/tr-feels-like-old-times/




FOUND CLASS RING
RETURNED TO OWNER
BECAUSE OF READER’S RESPONSE.

submitted by: Annette Smith (ND '65)
alpsmith@atlanticbb.net

Thanks to you, your newsletters, and Terry Fazio, we found the owner of the class ring that was found in Northview. It belongs to Diana Bauman Payne (67), and I sent it to her.

Thanks for your great newsletters!



CENTRAL JR HS CHRISTMAS PLAY 1953


submitted by: Carolynn Harbert Eneix (WI '59)
SCWV2@aol.com

Choir director is Mr Randolph
Play director is Mrs Dodd

Tree bottom row: Sharyn Cottrill, Jean Wells, Karen Queen, Rosemary Grow, ?
Jack- in-the-box on left Bon Ciel Romesburg, Jack- in-the-box on right ?
2nd row: ? , ? , Bob Neal, ? , Carolynn Harbert, ?
3rd row: ? , Anthony Julian, Patty Terrill, Sandy Moran, ? , Larry Martino, Roleta Smith
4th row: Jerry Warne, maybe Dotty Taggart, ? , Terry Warne
top: Marjorie Jones

Bottom right:
1st row: Sandy Iaquinta, Ruth Ann Grimes, Martha Frey, Karen Moffett, ?
2nd row: maybe Harry Kennedy, Vince Fragomene, Ronnie Noe, ? , Mary Wiseman, Judy Aspy
3rd row: ? , Linda Johnston, Betsy Rucker, Tanya Burt, Mary Ruth VanDevender, ? , Erma Lynn Loria, ? , ?

Bottom left:
1st row: Patty Kerns, Bonnie Smith, Jane Stout
2nd row: John Murphy, ? , ? , Wirt Wolfe
Top row: ? , ? , Bobbie Snider, Sharon Burner, Sandy Drummond, maybe Sharon Dillmore, ?

This was a very large picture that I had to resize for the newsletter. The faces are much more recognizable in the big version. If anyone wants to see the original write to me, Judy Daugherty Kimler at jkimler@verizon.net and I will send it to you. I was a toy soldier but I couldn't find myself in the picture.

I hope I identified everyone correctly. If there are any mistakes or if you can identify anyone else let me know.



HADACOL

Picture sent to us by: Charlie McClung (VHS '48)
CMCCLUNGSR@MSN.COM

Do you remember Hadacol? What is it? What was it used for? Write to me and tell me what you remember about Hadacol. Write to: Roleta1@aol.com.







NEW EMAIL ADDRESS

Barbara Younkin Park (left Clarksburg in 6th grade
but her heart is still part of WI Class of 1962)
She graduated from H.S. in MD.		 BPARKBSMA@aol.com
Michael “Spaz” Stonestreet (grew up in Stealey) mikeyjr@neo.rr.com
Rhonda Stonestreet (would have graduated
WI in 1986 but moved to FL)		 sleepyhead411@aol.com
Gwen “Clifton” Clark (VHS '56) gwen@theclarkspot.com
Janel Myers Fearing (VHS '70) jafea@suddenlink.net
Harriet Coughlin Hatfield (ND '58) hatfields@citlink.net
David White (WI '65) dwhite@sju.edu
Randy Coyner (WI '60) randycoyner@yahoo.com


EMAIL ADDRESS CHANGED

Ralph Sturms (WI '65) change to SUKIRALPH@wildblue.net
Diana S. Cleavenger Swiger (WI '66) mamaswag6@aol.com
Sam Iaquinta (WI '57) SAMIQIII@GMAIL.COM
Margaret “Fran” Tate Barrett (WI '50) flmom1cat4@roadrunner.com




SOME THINGS CHANGE SLOWLY---THANK GOD!

submitted by: Jim Brown (WI '57)
Jb1obx@aol.com

My Mother graduated from the “school on the hill” in 1932. I have the yearbooks from her years there. I have looked at them from time to time over the years and often remarked about how many teachers and staff who were there at that time were still at W I for part or all of my four years. I finally decided to count heads.

The 1932 yearbook – it was called “Reminiscences’” in those days - listed a Superintendent, (more on that later), a Principal, (Mr.Orie McConkey) 41 Teachers , 2 Librarians and 1 Secretary. Of that group of 45, 17 were still there my Freshman year (1954) and 14 when I graduated in 1957.

It was also interesting to note the change in the number of faculty between the two eras – almost a 25% reduction from 41 teachers to 32. And about half of our faculty had been at the school for 25 years. Some schools today have that kind of turnover in 25 months. Those from 1932 who were still there in 1954: Miss Cornelia Williams, Miss Lillian Moore, Miss Lillie Mae Bauer, Mr. Clay B. Hite, Miss Grace Albright, Miss Lena Stutler, Miss Yvonne Tiennebrunne, Miss Emily Taylor, Mr. William Judy, Mr. J. E. Gudekunst, Miss Florence Hollins, Miss Maud Yoak, Miss Glyde Bailey, and Miss Grace Duthie.

Librarians Miss Alice Griffin, and Miss Clayce Kishbaugh and of course Secretary Pearl Custer.

Three teachers - Moore, Stutler and Duthie - left us during my four years.

Several of this group were there from 1928 (perhaps earlier) until at least 1960 when Pam graduated and our collection of yearbooks ends.

Do you remember the lettering at the office doors? The main administrative office on the second floor said “Superintendent” while the one next to it said “Principal.” The last time I was in the building, probably twenty years ago, it was still the same. As you may know, at the time Washington Irving was built (1914), it was an independent school district with its own Superintendent. That kind of support enabled the Board of Education to recruit an outstanding faculty in those early years of the school, many of whom we had the privilege to learn from years later. The 1932 yearbook shows Mr. J. A. Jackson in this position.




SUBJECTS FOR DISCUSSION NEXT MONTH

A RESTAURANT WE ALL REMEMBER

In February I welcome any memories of Central Restaurant which was at the corner of 6th and Pike Street. It was a hangout in the mid 50’s. It was owned by one of the Minard Brothers. Write your memories to: Roleta1@aol.com

FIRST DATE

With whom was your first date? Where did you go? How did you get there? Write to Roleta1@aol.com

WASHINGTON IRVING VERSUS VICTORY

Write to me about your memories of the most important football game of the year! It was always damp down in that valley where the games were played, it was always cold as it was the last game of the season. What do you remember? Tell us: write to: Roleta1@aol.com

If you have any pictures please email to: Judy Daugherty Kimler jkimler@verizon.net. If you need to mail your pictures email her for instructions.

Thank you....

OLD WORDS

Let’s think and make a list of words we seldom hear today….words that if you use it your grandchild would say, “What is that?”

Add to my list---write to Roleta1@aol.com
Running board
Rumble seat
Steering knob
Roller skate key
Washboard
Slide rule
Shorthand

TEACHER

Miss Emily Taylor----write your memories of Miss Taylor




COACH JACK MOORE: HIGHLIGHTS OF HIS COACHING CAREER AND HIS LIFE
coachjackmoorebiog@zoominternet.net



The printer recently completed an additional printing of Coach Jack Moore's biography. Jack Moore graduated from WI as did his two exceedingly athletic brothers—Ken Moore, later a center for the NFL New Giants, and Bill ("Fuzzy") Moore, captain of and All-State on both his senior year WI football and basketball teams. Later Bill became head coach at the Washington Irving. Coach Jack Moore produced two undefeated football teams in nine years—at Shinnston in 1950 and at Victory in 1952. Both teams were ranked third in the state.

Jack Moore's biography explains his selling newspapers on the street corner at 5 years old after his father lost his job during the Depression; Jack's own WI high school athletic highlights and Jack, Kenny, and Bill's college athletic highlights; Jack's WW II Navy pilot and navigator training; his proposal to Dee Moore; and his retirement years, including family updates. Some of Coach Moore's former Shinnston and Victory players offer their own memories of Coach Jack Moore. 156 pages 68 Photos ? Plus separate appendices of many Shinnston and Victory All-State football (1917-58) and basketball players (1914-58).

$15 + $4.80 priority mail within USA

An excellent gift for a SHS or VHS relative, friend, or teammate

In Shinnston, call Mrs. John Reed (Pauline Rutter Reed)

For more info OR brochure—please email . . .

CoachJackMooreBiog@zoominternet.net




NEIGHBORHOODS OF CLARKSBURG



CHESTNUT HILLS

submitted by: Gladys Williams (WI '71)
GWill1004@aol.com

I grew up in Chestnut Hills. My parents moved to Taylor St. in January of 1954; I was 3 months old. My mother still lives in that same house today. We had great neighbors. Stanley and Margaret Allen lived across the street from us. They had 2 children: Linda (WI-1968) and Tom-(WI-1971). We also had Adam and Anne Skasik on the other corner. They had 2 boys: Mark(ND-1971) and Kurt (ND-1975). Both families were like second families to us.

The Chestnut Hills Pool at the bottom of Taylor St. opened up in the summer of 1958. When we were old enough to pass our swim test, we could go there by ourselves without a parent. We spent all day there. My sister, Anna, and I joined the swim team in 1963 and swam until we were 18 years old. We would go to practice in the morning, go home for lunch, back to the pool for the afternoon, home for dinner, then back to "hangout" for the evening. It was a great place to grow up. Made lots of friends there and gave us somewhere to go to keep us out of trouble.

We all attended Chestnut Hills Grade School on Frederick St., Central Junior High for 7th & 8th grades, and WI for 9-12th grades. We would usually catch a ride in the morning with a neighbor to Central & WI, but always walked home after school. There were no school buses for us then, only the City bus. It was faster to walk home then to wait for the bus. When we got in High School we would "hangout" on the corner of VanBuren and Arthur Ave. in the summer after the pool closed. If we were lucky, someone might be able to talk a parent into using a car to go to D'Annunzio's bakery for hot pepperoni rolls at night. There were so many kids growing up on "The Hill" that we could play tag with the boundaries being the entire hill.

Today, many of the people have either moved away or passed away, but there are still several children that have grown up and moved back to live there. My sister, Anna, Cathy Long Walker, Pam Bokey Mitchell, Kurt Skasik, Roger Cain, Anthony Secret, Mike Ervin, and Sandy Iaquinta are a few that I know still live there. It was a good, safe neighborhood to grow up in, and I am still friends and keep in touch with many of the people I grew up with.



GROWING UP IN CHESTNUT HILLS

submitted by: Barbara Younkin Park (left Clarksburg in 6th grade but her heart is still part of WI Class of 1962) She graduated from H.S. in MD.
BPARKBSMA@aol.com

Dear Roleta:
I did not go to WI but would have if we had not moved away. Dan Wheeler sends me the link to your wonderful newsletter. In reply to your request for stories about growing up in Chestnut Hills, below are a couple of paragraphs. I will be disappointed if you don't use it, but you may have too many to use mine, and I will understand.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Barbara, the very reason I do this newsletter is to keep friends connected. Many people have found old friends and relatives through this newsletter. I hope no one feels they aren’t welcome to have things published in the newsletter….All I ask of anyone who writes is that they show respect for our HOME TOWN, CLARKSBURG.

Here is Barbara’s letter: She certainly loves her old neighborhood of Chestnut Hills.

I grew up in Clarksburg, in Chestnut Hills at 408 Roosevelt Road. I attended Chestnut Hills School from first through fifth grade, the best years of my life (1950-56). Dan Wheeler was my neighbor and best friend who lived catty-corner across the street. Butch Berger lived next door. I had lots of friends and school mates: Barbara Bennett, Ruthie Van Voorhis, Michael Patrick Freeman Carduff (now Michael Patrick of ESPN fame), Brenda Starkey, Nancy Long, Buddy Caudy, Jim Hovey, Bobby Gaynor, Pam Myers, Frankie Wiseman, Dave Kuhl, Barry Rosenthal, Barbara Richards, Judy King, Jean Rae Miley, Marvin Yoho, and twins Gary and Larry Norris. Most all of those became WI graduates. I was so looking forward to going to WI, but then we moved to Maryland in the summer before 6th grade, and I had to leave everyone behind.

Why do I say the best years were the years in Chestnut Hills? There are a lot of reasons. We played cowboys and Indians and “fort” in the woods, where there was a creek and wildflowers in the spring. We played in each other’s yards, but also enjoyed the playground at Chestnut Street and Roosevelt Road, and got penny candy at Struther’s store at the top of the hill near the Monticello (which became Chestnut Hills Elementary) School. At school, everyone could go home for lunch, and most did, but my mother was the organist for lunch and dinner music at the Stonewall Jackson Hotel, so my sister Elaine and I were stuck at school for lunch. The hot meals, however, were great, and we were greatly spoiled by Mrs. Oliverio’s cooking! Although the school had only 4 classrooms, we all fit somehow and I had a wonderful education. I started trumpet in 4th grade, hoping to be in the WI band. Dad would take us to football games at Hite Field and I loved watching the band. ( I always tell people here in Maryland that in high school in West Virginia, you are either on the football team or you are in the band.) The foundation of my West Virginia education was so good that I became valedictorian of my high school class in Maryland. I went on to play French Horn in high school, and am in a community band today.

Mrs. Goldie Snyder at school helped us form a 4-H club and most all of Chestnut Hills Elementary students participated. The highlight was going to Jackson’s Mill for 4-H camp. So, besides the usual play-games, we had a lot to keep us busy. We were lucky not to be distracted by the things that kids face today.

So thanks, Chestnut Hills, and old friends, for the best childhood anyone could ever hope for!



submitted by: Bud Wheelock (WI '60)
hawkewoode708@yahoo.com

I did not spend much time around the area until 1962. I and my best friend Bill Ward had heard that the guys in the neighborhood played a lot of baseball so we came up to see for ourselves. Indeed it became our favorite past time. When I wasn't working, I could be found with the guys at the Hite Field practice field, usually from dawn until dusk. None of us had a car during the next two seasons so we walked everywhere, including to Anmoore and Norwood for away games. It was worth it. Our most enjoyable games were two played against a group of young Mormon missionaries and a three-game set with a team of gentlemen from Water Street and Monticello Avenue.

There was always something going on in the evenings too. Sometimes it was a lot of fun "bushwhacking" on Lowndes Hill, my apologies to any readers who might have been there at the time. And before they built the new water board complex on the old Chestnut Hills Park there were beer blasts sometimes attended by upwards of twenty or more locals. The only problems we ever had were when a baseball was launched from the playing field into a window (not often).

We had great friendships that have lasted to this day, though some are gone but not forgotten. Maybe some of you will remember Bruce Murphy, Larry-Jimmy-Junior-Harold-Davy-Bobby (all Watson brothers), Bill Ward, Dorsey Cain, John Prunty, John and Clyde Harris, Harold Meuller, Gilbert Blosser, Gary Lynch, Lyle Davis, Jim Matheney, Gail Carson, Cindy Gallo (a better baseball player than most of the guys & later a police officer), Yale Perkins, the Murphys (great players from Pitcairn Hollow where RCB High School now stands) and many more but I'm sorry I can't remember all the names. I have lost track of most of them over the years, but they have not been forgotten. Hopefully some readers out there can connect me with these great people.

Wishing you and yours the best and most Blessed Christmas ever as we reflect on its true meaning!



submitted by: Pam Bokey Mitchell (WI '70)
jamitchell1@msn.com

I grew up in Chestnut Hills. My parents moved into our home when I was 1 year old in 1953. I lived in that house until I got married in 1975. I went to Chestnut Hills Grade School from first to sixth grade. Many years later I also taught first grade at Chestnut Hills School until it closed. Our neighborhood had a swimming pool that was built in 1958. Many wonderful summer days were spent at that pool.

My husband and I bought a home in Chestnut Hills in 1978 because we wanted our children to have the same wonderful childhood experiences that I had. Several of my childhood friends have returned to Chestnut Hills to raise their families, too. They are Anna Williams Walsh, Cathy Long Walker, Mike Ervin, Kurt Skasik, Anthony Secret, Chris D'Annunzio, and Mark Wanstreet.

Every Halloween the parents would have a block party on Taylor St. for all the children in the neighborhood. We would dress up in costume and prizes were awarded. Every child went home with a big bag full of candy. Our neighborhood was like one very big family. All the adults watched out for the children and we knew we could depend on them. It was a really big deal to play in the neighborhood on a summer night until the street lights came on. Then all the children would rush home. I remember sleeping with the windows up and the doors open on really hot nights. No one ever worried about strangers coming into our homes.

Chestnut Hills is still a wonderful neighborhood. It has changed somewhat now that the road over Lowndes Hill has been paved and Rt. 98 has opened. There is a lot more traffic then in my younger days. The people in this community still care for each other and the homes are well maintained.



submitted by: Bill (Butch) Berger (WI '60)

Looking at the list of Clarksburg neighborhoods in the recent (and fantastic) newsletter, it occurred to me that my best memories during my youth were neither of Clarksburg nor schools but rather my time growing up in Chestnut Hills. I was 7 when I first moved there and I can still remember looking in three directions and seeing only miles and miles of woods rarely interrupted by roads or homes or fences. Most days when school was out, the woods became our playground. We built forts, tree houses, camps and hideouts, often 2 or 3 hours hike from home. We picked blackberries for lunch and drank spring water when we were thirsty. The regular crew, which included Marvin (Clint) Yoho, Jackie Vore, Barry Rosenthal, Jim, John and Larry Hovey, Mike Carduff-Freeman- Frankhouser-Patrick, Alfred Starkey and Raliegh and John Bedell, Richard Iquanta, and sometimes Archie Davis, roamed Lowes Hill, the rock quarry and the hills overlooking Pitcarin Hollow, as well as the pastures, ponds, streams and the West Fork River from dusk to dawn (we mostly had to be home when the street lights came on).

When many of us ended up in Southeast Asia later on it was almost as if the foot hills around Chestnut Hills were a training ground for the mountains in the Central Highlands. After school and in the summer we played baseball, basketball, football, soccer and chase in the Water Board Park. In the winter we built bonfires and rode sleds throughout the hills and the park. We walked to Hartland and played ice hockey on the river. When the community pool was finally built I was 15 and the pool opening dramatically changed all of our lives (swimming and diving and girls became our new focus). Life was filled with adventures and friendships in Chestnut Hills. I moved to Florida in 1966 after college and the army, and a new, full and happy life filled with family, friends and travel; but I still miss the Chestnut Hills and the friends I left behind.



THE HILL
COLONIAL HEIGHTS

submitted by: Penny Christie Johnson (WI '60)
penem@nc.rr.com

The Hill was the best place to grow up.....I moved there from 309 Vermont Avenue so I guess I could claim being a part of the Broad Oaks set also. My nephew, Steve Limbers, and his family lived on Harrison Street so I remember the swinging bridge, Alta Vista and the Dairy Bar but I have to say "The Hill" was where it was happening....Running barefoot was who I was in the summer...My family lived on Wilson Street across from an open field and catching lighting bugs in a glass jar was the best. Sometimes we took off the glowing part and put it on our ring fingers to pretend we had on a diamond like the movie stars wore. I was almost never inside during the summer. I played with Sue Smith, Colleen and Mackie McQuillan and Peter Johnson, Marcia Gaidos, Nancy Van Gilst, and Jeanne Long. Pete lived next door to us and we had lots of picnics at my house and picked lots of black raspberries at Lowndes Hill. Walking to the store to get dinner at Ryders was super because I always got a treat...plus you would see neighbors from the Hill community and there was no one friendlier to kids than Howard and Jaunita.

My mom and dad had a huge garden behind our house and I would get paid for picking bean beetles off of the half runners...We never ate much meat in the summer...Roasting Ears, half runner beans, homemade applesauce and wilted lettuce was my very favorite meal.

I loved walking to school, first to Towers and then Central...We really lived the old story you told your kids about walking 3 miles in snow and ice but we got to add that we had to cross the downtown traffic to get to Towers...We had to pass the jail, the blind man's stand, the courthouse plaza and the stores downtown before we completed the walk...and we did that morning, lunchtime and then home again after school. My sister, Barbara Christie Morris (class of 50) and her husband Bud Morris ('49) and their daughter, Melissa ('72) lived just two doors down from us. It was nice having family so close.

In between the Christie's and the Morris's was the home of Miss Emily Taylor and her sister... They were kind ladies who kept pretty much unto themselves...However Emily had a cat and when she would travel to Pittsburgh to visit family I was chosen to feed the cat. I remember sharing the porch swing one summer afternoon with Miss Taylor...We talked about some of our favorite things and she told me her favorite drink was a root beer float or a "Black Cow" as she called it..Tough in the classroom but a real person on her front porch. Winter and the sled rides down Wilson, Fall and the beautiful trees on Preston St, Spring and the beautiful poppies in the backyard of 349.

I could write a book..Just know that growing up on the HILL was the best.

"......For every generation life is hard but God is faithful.." Thoene



submitted by: Anne Byrnside Davis (WI '52)
annbyrn@ma.rr.com

I might say that "Colonial Hills" is a pretty fancy name for the area above WI. I moved to Clarksburg in 1949. My Dad worked for the Hope Natural Gas Co and was transferred to Clarksburg. I was 15 years old and thrown into a new neighborhood and a new school. At that time it was a middle class area of well kept homes and yards. I remember a few nice kids who lived in the area - Julia Jackson, Carole Currey Heim and Alden Humiston. Julia was the one who taught me, the little country girl how to smoke. It was a short walk to school. home for lunch and back to school. After school a group would walk downtown to hang out at Bland's for 2 hours and then back up to Colonial Hills. I would say it was a nice place to finish out my high school years and while I was in college my parents moved to Stanley Ave. Now when I drive around behind WI, it almost brings tears to my eyes. Most of the houses are in run down condition and there are piles of trash in the yards.



submitted by: Harriette Coughlin Hatfield (ND '58)
hatfields@citlink.net

My friend and classmate of twelve years, Brooke (Boo) Beall, told me to write something about our growing up on "the Hill" and I said OK. I probably have the worst memory of anyone I know and sadly my dear life long friend and Lee Avenue neighbor, Helen Wilson Goodwin, died just this past September. Helen was "my memory", she could come up with things that happened years ago that I can't recall. In person or for most of our adult lives in letters or phone calls she would say "do you remember" and I would always say "no" and she would have to remind me and THEN I would remember.

On my own, I'll try to say things that will affirm that growing up on "the Hill" was great. Brooke said in his letter that there were a lot of kids and that is fact. Probably more kids than some of the neighbors might have wanted. Lee Avenue would be the "outskirts" of "the Hill" and that was where the five Coughlin kids (Paul, Michael, Harriette, John and Patrick) called home. It was not hard to get a ball game of any kind going because all the kids would jump in to play. A really hard summer rain would turn our street into a river and we all went out to play in the street and get soaked, provided there was no lightening of course. How many kids had TWO playgrounds to go to, the one at the top of Seventh Street and one on Washington Avenue even if it was not really part of "the Hill". Cartoon shows on Saturday mornings at the Ritz or the Robinson Grand. Can't remember just how many neighborhood grocery stores we had but I know I went to all of them one time or another for my Mother. Parents could send their kids anywhere on "the Hill" and not have a single worry about their safety. When the weather was warm it was hard to go anywhere in a hurry because everyone was sitting on their porch and you had to stop and talk to all the neighbors. The older folks kept an eye on the kids, not because they were doing anything bad but because they cared about their neighbors. We kids would go out in the morning and parents had to call them home at dinner time, we always wanted "just a few minutes more please".

This is getting a bit long and I could continue but I'll leave you all with time to bring up your own memories of life on "the Hill" and in C-burg, W Va. Nice place to start the trip to adulthood.



submitted by: "Boo" Brooke Beall (ND '58)
bbeall2@verizon.net

I have read the WI Newsletter and I have sent an email along to several of the folks that I grew up with on the "Hill". Am hopeful you will get a good response about life on the hill and growing up on the Hill. Congratulations to you for another great newsletter. What an accomplishment!

Thanks for putting in the link to the Notre Dame High School Class of 1958 web page http://mysite.verizon.net/vzew42av/notredamehighschoolclassof1958/ in December's WI Newsletter.

As for me and my life on South Seventh Street it began when I was seven years old and my family moved from our temporary home at Lake Floyd to our first home at 618 South Seventh Street. I am sure that virtually every family on South Seventh in 1947 had children, there were a few exceptions, but not many. There were also kids of all ages. I can't speak for the rest of the hill but when you include Lee, Hornor, Wilson, High, Preston and the other streets that comprise the "Hill" that is a bunch of kids. It was post WWII so guess that accounts for a lot.

I was one of the last kids my age to learn how to ride a bicycle. I guess I tried to ride and wrecked every bike on Seventh Street before I finally learned to ride. I am not sure which of the other kids finally got me going but am glad someone had the patience to help me learn to ride. My father said he would not buy me a bike until I learned to ride. At 9 or 10 I had trouble walking and chewing gum at the same time. When I got my new bike every kid that had put up with me got to take a turn riding it a lap or two.

There was no better sled riding in Clarksburg than from the top of Wilson Street. When our family out grew the house at 618, we moved down the street to 523 South Seventh, the corner of Seventh and Wilson. My mother did not want me to sled ride on Wilson, so I would ride from the top of Seventh. It was not a bad ride but it stopped about the top of Wilson. The older kids always had a fire at the bottom of the hill and it was nothing to see twenty to twenty five kids sled riding. I used to watch from a window and wonder when I was going to be able to ride down Wilson Street. After one big snow I couldn't stand it anymore, so without permission took my turn going down the hill. My mother was upset, but my dad said if I made it down and back up again, he guessed I was old enough to sled ride on Wilson street. The parents of the kids often stopped cars from trying to go up Wilson when we were sled riding. I can remember saw horses placed across the intersection to stop traffic. The King of the Hill had to be Howard Ryder. He had one of the fastest sleds on Wilson Street and was usually one of the first out after a decent snow. You saw everything from toboggans to skis on a good night.

I could go on and on about growing up on the hill. It was a great time to be a kid and there were lots of kids. Clarksburg was a great town and had lots of neighborhoods like the one I grew up in.



submitted by: Mary Harbert Nophsker (WI '58)
Menrn40@aol.com

And her sister Carolynn Harbert Eneix (WI '59)
SCWV2@aol.com

Some remembrances of The Hill or as I just found out, Colonial Heights. My sister, Carolynn, remembers a lot more than I do since I moved away when I graduated from high school. So she and I have collaborated on these memories.

Christmas 1949 our family moved to The Hill, near the top of S. 5th St. We moved across the street from Wilma Wyne, the home economics teacher at Central Jr High, and her mother. They adopted us as part of their family and we learned a lot about gardening, sewing and cooking from both of them. Believe it or not Wilma could be a fun person and we had many great times at their house. There are so many fond memories of growing up with Lownde's Hill in our backyard. We would roam the woods building forts and tree houses, having carnivals and being outside after dark playing games like cross-the-river, whip, and mother may I ----things that young people today have never heard of. We remember the Civil Air Patrol tower that was built on top of the hill; the playground on 7th St where we did arts and crafts in the summer; picking berries to make jams and jellies and our parents didn't worry about our safety. Their biggest concern was whether we'd get poison ivy.

We had the convenience of a local grocery store, Ryder's Grocery--Howard and Juanita owners. Our mother, Maxine, worked there until it closed in the 70s. We could walk to Tower's School where there was no lunch program unless you were from the Country Club area. It didn't matter if it was pouring rain or 6 inches of snow you would walk home to lunch. Three generations of our family went to school at Towers and were taught 5th grade by Pauline Richards, who was one of those special teachers. Quite different from Ms Heater who taught 6th grade!

People we remember: the Smiths, Blanchards, Twiggs, Goffs, Christies, Hamiltons, McQuillans, Beavers, Muscaris, Bells, Cottrills, Wells, Brasseurs, Hartsocks, Gaidos and Hites. We both look back with fondness and great memories from growing up on "The Hill". Carolynn also raised her children while living on S 7th St and developing more memories with them.



submitted by: Jane Byrnside Anderson (WI '56)
eanders324@earthlink.net

I'm one of the girls from "The Hill." However, I found out recently from Boo Beall that our area wasn't "The Hill", it was Colonial Heights! We moved there from Madison, WV when I was in the fifth grade. A very traumatic time for an 11 year old. However, there turned out to be lots of kids my age. We had loads of fun playing softball at the bottom of Wilson Street (someone would pinch hit for me, but I ran the bases), playing in the flooded street after a big rain because the drains were overflowing, sledding down Wilson Street and Fifth Street, The Flaratys(sp?) parties, and playing mumble peg in my front yard with a real, live pocket knife. Our parents really trusted us. Ryder’s Grocery Store (at the corner of Fifth and Wilson) was a local hangout until it moved a block away on Fifth. You could go in there and have a running grocery tab and call up and have your groceries delivered. It was a long walk from Wilson Street to Towers and Central, but things got better when I went to WI....just a 10 minute walk. I remember the huge 1950 Thanksgiving snow fall. We were in Logan, WV visiting family and couldn't drive back to Clarksburg. When we finally did get back, there was 36" of snow on the ground and "tunnels" on the sidewalks and in the streets. We loved it ... no school for a few days. I attribute my strong legs to going up and down Wilson, Preston, and Fifth Streets all the time.

I made some wonderful friends, several with whom I still keep in touch.



submitted by: Frank Muscari (WI '57)
fdmsr1@verizon.net

Dear Roleta and Judy,
I hope that everyone had a Merry Christmas and hopefully all of you will have a blessed and prosperous New Year. First I would say thanks for bringing all of Clarksburg together. We are beholding to the both of you for giving the gift of memories to the many loved ones of our Jewel of the Hills. Starting with WIHS and then all the schools of Clarksburg. We all, I’m sure say, “Thanks”.

Now it’s time to speak about The Hill (Colonial Heights), we often just called it “The Hill” behind WIHS, and we would usually meet at Howards Ryders Grocery store, on the corner of Wilson street and South 5TH street. (Howard later moved the grocery store up the street close to Clay B. Hite’s home). I hope that I speak for all the people that I mention and that they will forgive me if I say anything wrong or if I misspell their names. Roger, Nancy, and Freddie, Sharon, Sue, and Paula Goff, Chuck Thomas and his sister’s, Sargent Mac Quillan and his sister, Mike Trecost and his brother, John Randolph, Richard Grimm, Marty (Sonnie) Ashland, Gene Sanders, Harry and Nat Ayres, David Dorvit, Robert McGee, David Bates , Alan and Paula Brasseur, Carolynn and Mary Harbert, Sharon Cottrill, Carol Ann Shinn, Jane, Carolyn, and Donald Burnside, Jimmy and Marsha Gudias, Mary Ann and Margaret Hite, Alexander Alex, Eddie and Michael Kerns, Alden Humiston, Becky Bebe and her brother, Bobby and Diana Swiger, Harriet Murphy, Doug Grey, Carolyn Hartsock, David Blackwell, David Bell (deceased), Andrew Hamilton (deceased), Roy and Donald Bever (deceased), Larry Sirk (deceased). I know that I surely have forgotten many and I do apologize to them.

We, meaning the Hilltop gang, truly loved our time on the hill. I remember in the winter, in the evening, walking downtown through the Arcade to Main Street to Hagan’s ice cream with a friend to get a couple pints of ice cream and then going back up the hill. During the winter months we would often meet with all our friends at the corner of Wilson St. and S. 5th St., (in front of the Pappas house), to a big barrel that had a wonderful, “ HOT”, fire, so that we could stay warm . All the guys and girls were sleigh riding down Wilson St. and S. 5th St., we would stay out standing and talking as long as we could stand the cold, (of course we would get our firewood anyway we could and we were always pulling pranks as the evening went on). I can still hear Chuck Thomas say, “Frank I’ve got a headache”, and I said, “put your forehead against the steel pole”, (the street sign) for a moment and your headache will go away”. Sure enough it did go away, although I don’t remember if his forehead stuck to the steel pole or not. During the Basketball season we would gather and play basketball at the garage across from my house, and during baseball season we would play down at the corner in front of Howard’s grocery store,(we even played stick ball using bottle caps for a ball). There were many times that we would all ride our bikes out to the Va. Hospital to play ball. All and all, we really had some great memories on our wonderful hill. I could go on telling stories about the hill and the truly great friendships that we had and still have with each other, for example, we had our great teacher’s: Mrs. Cannon, Ms. Emily Taylor, Ms. Willa Lyons.

I do want to say a few words about The Chestnut Hill’s folks, a happy group as I remember, My cousins Alfred and Brenda Carol Starkey and their neighbor Donna Kay King. I do remember that Franklyn Martin and his sister lived further up the hill. One could drive the back way to Chestnut Hill via: Lowndes Park hill.

Well, I guess I have carried on enough this time. I thank God for our Hill and the wonderful people who we grew up with, who helped us to have such great memories. Roleta and Judy, we again thank you for the Love that you have brought to WIHS and all of Clarksburg. God Bless.



submitted by: Sargent McQuillan (WI '57)
sargent827@sbcglobal.net

This was the stomping grounds of: Roy Bever; Frank Muscari; Don Bever; Mike Tricot; David Bell; Aldan Humiston; Andy Hamilton; Mary Helen Thompson; Becky Bibbee; The Harbert girls; and Sargent McQuillan to name a few. Note: Mis Taylor the English teacher lived there too. We would hide and throw snowballs at her until she caught us, turned out not to be a good idea!

It was a grand old place with the following arenas:
1. Basketball Court-- Rim nailed to a telephone pole, until the police came and took it down; the officer who came had a three wheel motorcycle which we called the ice cream wagon;

2. Notre Dame Stadium-- The concrete street where many a touchdown pass was thrown from All-Americans to All-Americans, (in our dreams)

3. Softball field-- Was cut out on the side of the hill, any ball hit to left field went down over a bank and was lost forever, (did not last as a venue very long);

4. WV's finest sledding-- a good sledder could go from the top of Big Wilson, 1/4 of the way up Little Wilson, turn left past Roy Bevers' house, make a 90 degree turn on to Hickman past Becky Bibbees house, another left and you were coming to Washington Ave.

We had a large oil drum that was fired up with cardboard from Ryders Grocery for warmth.
We also wrapped potatoes in aluminum foil and cooked them on this fire.
A jump was also made at the bottom of the hill that would propel you at least10' before you landed.

5. Casino== playing poker five days a week in Bevers garage, with poker chips- not money.

So many memories that we can look back on, and just; "Wow what a wonderful childhood".



I will only accept letters about COUNTRY CLUB ADDITION AND DAVISSON RUN this month. Please do not write to me about any other neighborhoods until it is featured. I can not save letters until the proper time. Just wait until I feature your old neighborhood then write. Write to Roleta@aol.com.

ADAMSTON---------------------------------------------------------NO ONE RESPONDED
ANMOORE (FORMERLY GRASSELLI)---------------------------0 RESPONDED
ARBUTUS PARK---------------------------------------------------------1 RESPONDED
ARLINGTON---------------------------------------------------------------1 RESPONDED
BROAD OAKS--------------------------------------------------------- 25 RESPONDED
BROADWAY--------------------------------------------------------------2 RESPONDED
BRUSHY FORK----------------------------------------------------------1 RESPONDED
CHESTNUT HILLS------------------------------------------------------5 RESPONDED
COLONIAL HEIGHTS (aka THE HILL)----------------------------6 RESPONDED

Please write your memories of Country Club Addition and Davisson Run areas in January.

COUNTRY CLUB ADDITION
DAVISSON RUN

DESPARD/ SUMMIT PARK
DOWNTOWN / UPTOWN (this is a new section added to cover all those who lived in any other “TOWNY”)
*EAST END
EAST POINT
EAST VIEW
EDGEWOOD
*GLEN ELK
GLEN FALLS
GOFF PLAZA
HARTLAND
HEFLIN HEIGHTS
HIGHLAND PARK
INDUSTRIAL
KELLY HILL
MONTPELIER (AKA PINNICINICK HILL)
NORTHVIEW
NIXON PLAZA
NORWOOD
NUTTER FORT
PARK PLAZA
POINT COMFORT
STEALEY
STONEWOOD--------------------------------------NO ONE RESPONDED
*WEST END

For the month of JANUARY we will salute COUNTRY CLUB AREA AND DAVISSON RUN






DID I MISS A NEIGHBORHOOD?
WHAT IS THE NAME OF THIS ONE?
This area was brought to my attention by Mary Stump Harrell (WI 1955) msharrell2005@verizon.net. She doesn’t know what it is called and I don’t either. Can anyone help me? I don’t want to leave out any neighborhood. If it doesn’t have a name, what shall I call it? Please help---write to:Roleta@aol.com.

If no one can come up with the names of any missing neighborhoods…..possibly that section of Clarksburg didn’t have a designated name….thus when I get to the bottom of the list, I will ask for any areas which were not named, at that time, I hope everyone who reads this newsletter and who have not written about their neighborhood will then write. Do you think that is possible?

Here is her description:
About neighborhoods -- are you missing all the kids who lived between Elk Creek and Monticello Ave on either side of Main Street? Elm St., Carr Ave., Clay St., Jefferson St., Thompson, Park Ave., Maple Ave., Oak - and others? This was not considered Broad Oaks, as Broad Oaks was bounded on the west side by Elk Creek - and these streets are all west of the creek. And I understood you to say that the "townies" were those who lived around downtown and out around Chestnut, Mulberry, Locust and so on, so unless I misunderstood, these people don't fit that category either. Lots of great people in this area -- Spelsberg, Chocatis, Furbee, Kennedy, Burnside, Jarvis, Church, Keeney--- and so many others I don't remember. Most of this group would have attended Carlile School on Maple Ave. while the Broad Oaks people went to Alta Vista and the Chestnut Ave. ones went to - ? not Towers, I think there was a great grade school on Chestnut St. but I cannot remember the name.



HELP NEEDED!! HELP NEEDED!! HELP NEEDED!!


The W.I. Class of 1958 is planning a reunion August 14-15, 2009. If you know the CURRENT STREET ADDRESSES for any of the following people, please send them to me at: eerfanvan@comcast.net

Thanks for your help!
Harriett (Danley) Van Voorhis

Robert Bartos, Jerry Knight, Virginia Butters Nordstrom, Barbara Bradshaw, Charlotte Clifford Zopfl, Arden Butcher, Robert Driggers, Mary Ann Cottrill Spaulding, Sandra Chidester Moon, Mary Carpenter Cummings, Delores Charcandy Monahan, Richard Ellis, Herbert Enelow, James Greathouse, Imogene Dillmore Mason, Lorraine Donnellan Treisch, Letitia Drew Motley, Nancy Hendren Holt, David McGahan, Buckner Horner, Marie Fiorenza Garten Glass, Dean Henry, James Jackson, Mary Hayler Sinclair, Linda George, Judith Goldsmith Davis, Mary Harbert Nophsker, Steve Lynch, Beth Ann Hill, Michael Matthews, James Marple, Sam Mascara, Dana Miller, Kay Lawson Adair, Ross Marano, John Stemple, Jay Scott, Mary Murphy, Willa Poindexter Washington, Dorothy Powell, Gary Smith, Linda Posey Lanier, Dolores Preston Frazier, Joe Torjak, Joan Riggleman Pough, Jo Ann Rupar, Patricia Shaw Gunther, Robert Westbrook, Eunice Wallace, Yvette Stickman Heitzig, Nancy Stuart Beverlin, Connie Thompson Lantz, Jeanne Wilson Pontti, Jeannie White, Jacqueline Duncan, William Smith, Alvin Garrett



WI CLASS OF 1959 LOST CLASSMATES

Sharon Burner
Francis Anne Campbell McCabe
Bill Fowler
Judy Carol Grant
Karen Moffett Myer Lattin
Ronnie Noe
Maureen Quinn Colasessano
Jon Reager
Jean Romano Riffle
George Skinner
Elaine Talkington Bostic
Roger Taylor
Peggy Tibbs
Mary Wiseman


Above is a list of our classmates that we have lost touch with. We want to invite them to our class reunion which will be held July 17 and 18th in Clarksburg, WV. We can’t invite those shown above as we can’t find them. If you have any information that might help us contact one of the above, please let us know.

Any lead might help, such as an address of a sibling….Please contact any of the following reunion committee members: Sharyn Cottrill McGahan (mtmama41@msn.com), Judy Daugherty Kimler (jkimler@verizon.net) or Roleta Smith Meredith (Roleta1@aol.com)

Thanks for the help.

We have the following details:
THOSE NOTIFIED BY EMAILS: 82
NOTICES SENT BY SNAILMAIL: 75
CLASSMATES WE CAN’T LOCATE: 14
DECEASED: 24
---------------------------------------
TOTAL 195




THE 60’s

submitted by: Jackie Hays Lafferty (VHS '54)
Grannieof15@aol.com

Roleta,,,,just a note to tell you how much I enjoy and appreciate your newsletter. You certainly put a lot of time and effort into it and make it very interesting. I am sending you a site that brings back memories of the 60's that I received today. I don't know if you can or want to use it in your newsletter sometime, but thought I would send it to you and you can use your own thoughts on it.

Turn up your speakers and enjoy a super presentation of a time when life was much simpler. Subject: the 1960's

1960s This is the one of the best presentations of the sixties that I have ever seen online. It is very well done. Just click on the link and sit back and enjoy the memories. Great photos and facts.

THE SIXTIES




submitted by: Carolyn Hornor Wilson (WI '60)
chw10@comcast.net

Roleta,
Thank you for always mentioning some small thing in your letter that awakens some of those childhood friends or acquaintances, events and memories



submitted by: David Grimes (WI '53)
dgrimes@triad.rr.com

It was great fun reading at least parts of the December Newsletter. I admit I don't read every article or even every newsletter, but I applaud you for doing what you do to keep folks from Clarksburg "in touch" with one another.

I particularly enjoyed reading the bit about the "Yehudi Speaks". I had totally forgotten about that "rag". However, in reading it, I recognized many of the people in the article -- Shirley Swiger (I always wanted to date her as I thought she was the best looking female in WI - never did for whatever reason), Barbara Sue Dodds (cheerleader who introduced me to my first wife, Donna Jane Hughes, also a cheerleader from Morgantown), Clarence McKinley, Bobby Cotter, Alden Humeston (aka Ed), Maple Lake Square Dances (just had my wife's birthday party at which we employed a Bluegrass band!), Billy LaDue (shades of Alta Vista), Chauncy Rush, Mary Jane Powell (I remember her toe dancing and having black toenails filled with blood - and dating Alden - aka Ed), Mary Sue Kerns, and, finally, Julia Jackson who was a year or two ahead of me in High School and on whom I had a crush. In those days, one didn't date "older" women.

Thanks for the memories.



submitted by: Virginia (Pep) Michie Culpepper (would have been WI 1960)
bculpep@earthlink.net

Delighted to see Habie (Hayward) Snyder's name appear in your list of nicknames. It brought back many memories of 50 years ago when he was a sophomore ('59) and I a freshman ('60) at W.I. Since I lived at Maple Lake, I spent many weekends at the in-town home of my life long friend, Annabelle Lee Hutson ('60), where boyfriends could come "hang out" (as the kids say today.) Often we ended up down Stanley Avenue in the basement rec room of Sharon Lough's where we would dance the night away. Alas, my family moved to Ft. Lauderdale, Florida right before my sophomore year.

Having married into an old Florida family and graduating from UF (where husband and son both were team captains of their respective football teams,) my life is deeply immersed in the Sunshine State and the Florida Gators with very little association to my West Virginia roots. Thanks to you and my oldest Clarksburg friend, Annabelle Lee Hutson, whom I now see often when we are both at our respective western North Carolina summer homes, I have been revisiting lots of favorite memories. Everyone of your newsletters has something which provides a picture into the past. Before moving to Maple Lake, we lived on Vermont Avenue, and I frequently walked the swinging bridge over Elk Creek on my way to Carlyle Elementary School, so I really enjoyed the Broad Oaks issue. Same goes for the BIG snow...who could forget that? Thanks for all that you do to connect the dots in my mind of a wonderful time and place. There is a star in your crown.



NICKNAMES

submitted by: Paula Wilson Cera
cerafamily@comcast.net

I am reading the current WI Newsletter (intend to get the CD) and was looking at the nickname section. Number 2 is "Doc". My father, Arden K. Wilson, who attended WI and I believe graduated in 41 or 42, was called Doc from childhood. Could he be number 2 by any chance? That would amaze AND amuse me, for sure. Well........that's my guess!

Thanks!
Paula Cera
Daughter of Arden K. (Doc) Wilson and Margaret "Jean" Emrick (sister of Jack Emrick...or cadilacjak, as you may know him, as he has contributed to these newsletters frequently)



submitted by: Tom Garrett (WI '65)
tandlgarrett@verizon.net

I'll take a crack at a couple.
#2 Doc....There were so many managers that may have had that name...but I was called that for awhile, given to me by Chuck Paugh, class of '65, on our ninth grade football team because I helped tape ankles for a few of the players; after all there was an amazing 55 freshman football players on that team (we only had 8 left by the time we were seniors, how's that for attrition).
#3 was a running back that graduated in '62,
and 4 tyke is John Tiano, class of '65.
Is #6 Skip Bowie also class of '62?

That was a great article about my brother Mark Garrett as he scored a touchdown in '58 against Morgantown. I will never forget that night. I was only a sixth grader at the time and was sitting next to Chuck Paugh, mentioned above and brother of offensive guard Jerry Paugh. I was not paying attention to the play when Chuck elbowed and said that Mark had scored a touchdown which I abruptly answered by telling him that that could not have happened since tackles don't score touchdowns. Mark was so proud at home that night .

1. Habie....... Hayward Snyder -3
2. Doc..........Brooks Gainer (WI 62) 1; Tom Garrett-1; Dave Kuhl-1, Chuck Paugh (65)-1, James Hutson (WI)-2
3. Goose...... Clarence Grose (WI 61) 4
4. Tyke......... Nilah Wyant, (WI 62) 3; Frank Martino-1; Joe Tiano (65)-2; Louis Oliverio-1
5. Beak........ Susan Beaks-1; Gary Dawson (61)-1
6. Skip..........Skip Marti; Grover Skip Bowie (58)-5; Skip Riley (WI 62) 1
7. Josie.........Joe Tomaro-(64) -3
8. Smitty........All Smiths - Roy (55)-4; Ray (62)-2; Jim (61)-3; Marvin Smith-1
9. Mabs..........Margaret Ann Heflin Bailey (62)-1
10. Mim..........Miriam Hodges,(62)-1; Meriam McNutt (62)-1; Mimi Lee-(61)-2

The nicknames for February are:

Daddy..
Hoopy...
Dee Dee..
Engine...
Stumpy..
Fizz..
Fuzzy..
Lefty..
Sheriff..
Bones..

This will be the end of the NICKNAME Section unless you send us some nicknames that you remember. Nick (who is in charge of the nicknames) is out of nicknames....so please help. Send your nicknames to: Roleta1@aol.com



PRAYER REQUESTS

Bobby Secret (WI 1961) was recently in the hospital but he won his battle against pneumonia and is still fighting against cancer, So we ask you to include Bob in your prayers. You can send him a card at:
Bob Secret
740 Mulberry Ave
Clarksburg, WV 26301

Also, we lift up a prayer and ask you to pray for Carol Grow Robey (WI 1957). Her recent X-Rays and CT Scan show lung cancer. She has Squamous Cell Carcinoma in the Lung and it has now gone to the Lymph Glands in the chest area. She will be undergoing chemotherapy. We hope for the best for her.


JANUARY JINGLES

submitted by: Steve Goff(WI '72)
sgoff53@hotmail.com

Greetings:

This is a great batch of ditties, even if I do say so myself. This first song is a tribute to two of my favorite singers, Willie Nelson and Ray Charles, they are in great voice in this duet. Happy New Year!!

"Seven Spanish Angels"
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=63A__INJecI

THESE SONGS WERE ALL NUMBER ONE IN THE US, IN JANUARY OF YEARS PAST....

1944 "Paper Doll" The Mills Brothers....performing a swinging, tight version on the Lawrence Welk TV program.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n2m8VZBfRYo

1947 "The Old Lamp-lighter" Sammy Kaye.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EHczkQXkHec

1950 "Rag Mop" The Ames Brothers. Look for Ed "Mingo" Ames...!!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WyAEpXc24mc&feature=related

1953 "Don't Let the Stars Get In Your Eyes" Perry Como
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dmkg_E2evbg

1956 "Sixteen Tons" Tennessee Ernie Ford. Dinah Shore introduces this clip. Watch as the whole room is snappin' their fingers by the middle of the song. He had great delivery. Coal miners must have loved this.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Joo90ZWrUkU

1959 "Smoke Gets in Your Eyes" The Platters..
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=57tK6aQS_H0

1962 "The Lion Sleeps Tonight" The Tokens live. I'm not sure when this was shot, but the original lead singer still sounds very good on a tough song to sing.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mwy5uqemp6c&feature=related

1965 "Come See About Me" The Supremes released in Dec. '64, hit #1 in Jan. of '65.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PycKSdKG_74&feature=related

1967 "I'm a Believer" The Monkees written by Neil Diamond....finally hit #1 in Jan. '67
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XfuBREMXxts

1970 "Raindrops Keep Falling on My Head" BJ Thomas. About the only way I can bear to hear this tune is to do so over the Butch Cassidy/Sundance footage shown here....PAUL NEWMAN... RIP.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9_089PdrEk0&feature=related

1972 "American Pie" Don McLean This is an excellent "the meaning of American Pie" video, that goes along explaining most of the references in the song in a very entertaining way. I remember Phil London's older brother, Steve, bringing this record home from Rutgers, over Christmas break, Dec. '71 (our senior yr. in high school). We loved it. Then a few weeks later it was released as a single and was a big national hit. I always felt like I was in on "discovering" that song....Phil London where are you? Good memories.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9_089PdrEk0&feature=related

1976 "Love Rollercoaster" the Ohio Players live on The Midnight Special with featured dancers....say what?!?!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y8KMC6L0CHo

1979 "Le Freak" Chic great live version with SLASH featured on lead guitar...cool...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AjsH5mT33Pg

1983 "Down Under" Men at Work. Reminds me of MTV and that vega-mite sucks....trust me.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DNT7uZf7lew

1987 "At This Moment" Billy Vera live Hollywood Palace...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OH4odHVfF5E

Happy New Year....It is a Remarkable Time.



WW II MEMORIES

submitted by: Roleta Meredith (WI '59)
Roleta1@aol.com

Most of us remember something about WW II, even if it is just stories that we heard from family members. I think it is time for each of us to tell about our memories. Write to: Roleta1@aol.com

Below is a sample of what one lady remembers:

submitted by: Mary Stump Harrell (WI '55)
msharrell2005@verizon.net

In this newsletter, Bob Patterson asks about collecting milk weed-- I remember doing that - I was in the second grade, and I also think we were told that the "silk" in the milk weed would be used to make parachutes. I have a very clear memory of being up on Haymond Highway - far, far from home for a six year old - collecting the milk weed. I wouldn't recognize a milkweed plant today.

I don't remember taking newspapers to school, but another thing we collected was aluminum foil-- remember peeling it off the chewing gum wrappers? We made balls of crumpled up foil and they were said to be used in making airplanes.

I wonder, today, if any of that stuff was ever used.?? Do you think so?

But it kept us children thinking that we were helping the war effort. I do remember the sirens; they frightened me. And occasionally a plane would fly over our neighborhood and drop leaflets. I remember that happening one evening when we kids were playing in the backyard. Somehow we became convinced that Hitler had sent those leaflets - and we were terrified. I also remember one time when some German prisoners were said to have escaped from the train - and we were afraid they would come to our houses to "get" us.



QUARANTINE

submitted by: Roleta Meredith (WI '59)
Roleta1@aol.com

Remember when people were quarantined due to illness? Please write and tell us about that experience …. Write: Roleta1@aol.com

This subject was suggested by Jim Alvaro (WI 1956) jalvaro@aol.com. He wrote the following memories and send us a picture of a Quarantine Card which was placed in the window of a house where there was someone living who had the decease that was catching.

Roleta, something else my Dad saved. These were the signs that were put up by the Doctor to be placed on your front door stating that the house was quarantined due to that illness. By the info on the sign, I was quarantined for 10 days and my brother Fred had to stay in about 8 days. I guess because he was a lot smaller than I was. Nah, probably had nothing to do with that. I guess it was due to the serious of the illness. I also have one for the Whooping Cough and Measles.





REMEMBERING HARRY TRUMAN

Harry Truman after his presidency:

Harry Truman, from Missouri, was a different kind of President.
He probably made as many important decisions regarding our nation's history as any of the other 42 Presidents.
However, a measure of his greatness may rest on what he did after he left the White House.

Historians have written that the only asset he had when he died was the house he lived in, which was in Independence Missouri. On top of that, his wife inherited the house from her Mother.

When he retired from office in 1952, his income was a U.S Army pension reported to have been $13,507 a year. No other income...!

Congress, noting that he was actually paying for his stamps and personally licking them, granted him an "allowance" for office expenses".

Later, they voted to give him a retroactive pension of $25,000 per year.

After President Eisenhower was inaugurated and moved into the white house, Harry and Bess drove home to Missouri by themselves -  There were no Secret Service agents following them.

When offered corporate positions at large salaries, he declined, stating, "You don't want me. You want the office of the President - and that doesn't belong to me. It belongs to the American people and it's not for sale."

Even later, on May 6, 1971, when Congress was preparing to award him the Medal of Honor on his 87th birthday, he refused to accept it, writing, "I don't consider that I have done anything which should be the reason for any award, Congressional or otherwise."

He never owned his own home and as president, he paid for all of his own travel expenses and food. 

Modern politicians have found a new level of success in cashing in on the Presidency, resulting in untold wealth. Today, many in Congress also have found a way to become quite wealthy while enjoying the fruits of their offices. Like in the Roman empire, a lot of todays political positions are literally for sale...

Good old Harry Truman was correct when he observed:

"My choices early in life were either to be a piano player in a whore house or a politician. And to tell the truth, there's hardly any difference between the two...!" 



MISS VIRGINIA NUTTER



submitted by: Mary Stump Harrell (WI '55)
msharrell2005@verizon.net

Miss Nutter was indeed an interesting person. She was a "character" surpassed, perhaps, only by Miss Bauer. I had her for first year Latin and remember being annoyed because she insisted on calling me Mary Frances instead of just Mary. I thought that it was my right to say what I should be called -- she did not agree. I remember the ill-fitting shoes she wore, which were mentioned in an earlier newsletter by someone -- how did she stand the agony of those too, too small shoes when she was on her feet all day long!?  I don't remember much about her actual teaching, but I can still decline agricola and conjugate amo in the present and past tenses. So she succeeded in getting something into my head. We were afraid of her, I think, at least as lowly Freshmen. Her classroom was behind the stage at the end of a small hall. As you went down the hall to her classroom you passed Miss Albright's room on the right. I think you could also come into Miss Nutter's room from the other side - maybe a door connecting her room and Miss Bauer's? And as has been mentioned before-- Barbara Morris can do such a perfect imitation of Miss Nutter that it is scary.



submitted by: Mary Beth Jeranko Hilburn (WI '55)
hilfarm@hawaii.rr.com

The rumor was that she had been married, but I never heard it substantiated. Her hair was so perfect we thought it was a wig, but I saw a scab on her scalp where she must have scratched herself. Proof positive, no wig.

She ran an iron rod classroom. There was no mischief or uproar in there. She was a terror.

We had these interminable assignments for Latin that I figured out were mostly fillers, so I copied page after page of the Girl Scout Manual into my notebook, and was never caught. A brief life of crime.

She taught my Aunt Lib during the summers at WVU, and she didn't like her too well, even as an adult, so it kind of justified in my dislike of her. Looking back, she wasn't a great teacher, but she was memorable. No one who ever sat in her classes for Latin was wishy-washy in her opinion of the redoubtable Ms. Nutter.



submitted by: John Teter (WI '61)
jteter@balmar.com

I had Miss Nutter for English, but I am not sure just what year that would have been. I remember her assigning these “required” books to be read, and it is probably why I have never liked reading unless it is something of importance in my life. I do not read just to read, like my wife does. If I put my mind to it, I could probably come up with the names of at least one of the books we were “required” to read, but I will need to give that some thought. Maybe “The Scarlet Letter” was one of them.

My recollection of where her classroom was that it was in the back of the school, up some steps, and probably somewhere behind the stage of the auditorium.

I think that Miss Nutter was “probably” a VERY GOOD teacher, but she is the ONLY TEACHER that scared me, and I am not quite sure why. She seemed to be a MONSTER at times, and I dreaded going to her class every day, but I never missed her class. I was afraid to. Several of my classmates have talked about her at reunions and have complimented her on her teaching and the affect that it had on them, but nobody has even mentioned being “afraid” of her.



submitted by: Joanne Westfall Simpson-Tetrick (WI '52)
fragilegranny@ma.rr.com

I did not have Miss Nutter while in W.I. However, I was in Grace Duthie's English class my freshman and sophomore years. We could, at times, hear her very loud and stern voice. Her classroom was the first one around the corner of Grace's on the second floor. I always thought her hair looked unreal and I would shudder when I got close to her. I think she played the piano for "Chapel" at that time.



submitted by: Ron Gilmore (WI '72)
CactusRon@aol.com

I had Miss Nutter my freshman year in 1970 for Latin. Her classroom was in the very back of the school on the first floor near the smoking area. She was very intimidating to freshman. The first day in her class she announced menacingly that she had the eyes of an eagle and could hear a pin drop while pointing her crooked finger at us. Just after this comment a classmate was nervously clicking his pen in the back. She instantly threw him out of class. He was banished I believe to Mrs. Bauld’s class. He became the envy of all of us. I believe I had her for fifth period class. My freshman year I played football basketball and ran track. We played most of our games right after school and we were required to miss fifth period quite a bit to be there on time. A couple of other student athletes who were more conscientious about their studies than I, would always let her know they were missing and turned their homework in early. She would give them so much grief about missing class and playing sports instead of being there for her class. She would often bring the subject up in class especially if they didn't know a translation. I just didn't go to class and she always thought I was just absent. I escaped her wrath about missing her class but often encountered it for not translating correctly. I did learn though and knowing Latin derivatives and words often helped me in other classes all the way through college. Luckily I had Mrs. Bauld for Latin 2. Years later I ran into Cactus Jack Fredericks and asked him about a rumor that he and Miss Nutter had once dated. He said in his usual Way " Heavens no, I was in one of her classes the first year she taught at Shinnston." Then as if still fearful of her even though she was deceased, he told me "don't tell anyone I had her in class."



submitted by: Bill Pinella (WI '65)
bill.pinella@pressdemocrat.com

For some strange reason, Miss Nutter loved me. To this day I don't why but I became a favorite of hers in my sophomore English class. The room ... I can't recall exactly where it was located, but it was in the back on the second floor I think and you had to kind of wind your way off the main hallway to get there.

The hair was always pulled back in very proper, matronly style. The feet always overflowed the shoes she wore and I often thought how much her feet must have hurt.

My most vivid moment involved "Virginia Lee" and the Beatles. Now that is a true quiniela.. Naturally, the Beatles had taken over by then and I was right on top of their bandwagon. In fact, I'm still convinced they are the greatest band ever but I digress. One day I went to school with my hair combed down over my forehead. All that hair! Ha! ha! Probably a quarter of an inch.! So, I walk into Miss Nutter's class and sat near the back. She immediately pointed me out: "Mr. Pinella! Are you trying to look like one of those ... Beatles!?" Well, of course, I was, but I sheepishly replied, "No, mam."

After I moved away, my late mother told me Miss Nutter often dined out at Jim Reid's Restaurant and would ask about me.

I don't really know how much knowledge of English I took away from her class and the Bs I managed to get, but I would imagine she would be proud to know I put it all to good use in my 38 years in journalism and the contributions I've made to six different newspapers across the country.



submitted by: Jane Hamilton Ross (WI '53)
meezer83@msn.com

I had Miss Nutter for an advisor as an entering freshman and all my upper class friends recoiled in horror when I told them where my advisor was located. Her classroom then was room 216, in the alcove behind the stage. Miss Albright’s class was next door. That was in 1949 and until that year she had taught only junior English. However, the freshman Latin teachers had both retired in the spring and because she had a minor in Latin, she was to teach freshman Latin. Miss Albright had one class of freshman, and the rest of her classes were Latin II, III and IV. Miss Nutter had had five classes of junior English. As a result of the realignment of the Latin classes, Miss Nutter had FOUR freshman Latin classes and only one of junior English. Well, the very first Latin class Miss Nutter made it very plain that she DID NOT want to teach Latin and even worse, she did not want to teach freshman, since they (we) weren’t quite dry behind the ears and didn’t know how to act. To be no taller than she was, even in 3 inch heels, she could be very intimidating, to say the least! The first week of class I didn’t think I would every learn Latin! As time progressed however, I came to really enjoy her class, and Latin seemed to come easier and easier for me. She was a bear with the homework and a real taskmaster about homework being neat and done on time. Homework was a daily assignment and upon entering class was turned in. During class she would pass up and down the rows checking books for translations written in. That was a definite no-no! While she was a hard taskmaster, I have to credit her for not only giving me a tremendous background for the other Romance languages, but also taught me English in the process. As a result, I had no problems in my remaining high school career with the languages I took, nor did I have any difficulty in college with either French or English. I remember the hours I spent on her homework, but it paid off in the end. I came to really like her.



submitted by: Bill Gloss (WI '61)
bgloss2@cox.net

Thanks for being the energy behind the WI Newsletter. I graduated for WI in 1961. I was a Lake Floyd kid and thus did not participate in a lot of the activities I read about in the Newsletter.

Miss Nutter taught me Junior English . I don’t remember the room number but it was on the second floor in the back of the school. Right next to what used to be Miss Grace Albright’s Latin class room. What stands out with me about Miss Nutter was that I was scared of her the whole year. I really thought she was a lithe crazy with those big bulging eyes. I can’t say if she taught me anything but I did get through college English.



submitted by: Gladys Williams (WI '71)
Gwill1004@aol.com

Miss Nutter, how can one ever forget her? It was 1967. I was a freshman and had her for Latin I. We were terrified of her. My friend, Denise, only lasted in class about 1 week. I thought she was going to have a nervous breakdown. We had her 1st period. Her room was on the 2nd floor in the back hallway. There was a closet between her room and Mrs. Bowers' English class. Miss Nutter would come late to class and hide in the closet to listen to see if she could hear anyone talking. We were too afraid to talk even when she wasn't there. She would say she was late because of the fog or one time she said someone plugged her lock on her garage, and she couldn't get her door open. We later found out this to be true because we met the boy at Fairmont State that actually was her neighbor and did that to her. I'll never forget the bracelets that she wore that were the Roman colors, her fat feet that hung over the sides of her shoes, and her saying "If you say you will not cough, you will not cough!" You weren't allowed to look out the windows, click your pen, or cough in her class. Can you imagine students today in that classroom? To avoid having her for Junior English, I went to summer school. I remember "A Thought for the Day" on her blackboard everyday for her English class. She didn't think you could be a good student and play sports. When Liz Kyle and Patty Logue, both members of the Girls' Sports Team, were Valedictorian and Salutatorian, they made sure to go and show Miss Nutter their awards. I remember very little Latin, but I will never forget having Miss Nutter for a teacher.



submitted by: Willard "Bud" Wheelock (WI '60)
hawkewoode708@yahoo.com

Thanks for another super newsletter! I know it has been awhile since I contributed anything and hopefully this will make up for lost time.

Virginia Nutter. Needless to say I was aware of all the weird things said about her over the years and was sure I would have her for English my junior year (1958-59). She was our church organist and my parents knew her well. She was always nice to me. One thing I was sure of and that was that I would learn a lot from her. Writing was always a major interest of mine. Unfortunately, that was the year that she took a sabbatical and I ended up with Mrs. Norman. My year was a waste as I learned nothing. She ended up being social studies supervisor for the county after I started teaching. To my knowledge she had never taught social studies, but that's the way board politics were played. Sorry I got off track. The scariest thing I witnessed with her was a confrontation between her and Miss Bauer. I ran errands for the office and while in Ms. Bauer's room which was in back of the school, Ms. Nutter came through the connecting door of her room and proceeded to go right across the front of the room to the other door. Needless to say Ms. Bauer had a fit and they got into it. I left the first chance I got. I have often wondered if they really hated each other that much or if they were just putting on a show. Guess we'll never know. I was also told that those who approached her with their sob story regarding their bad grade would sometimes get a grade change. I will get back to you shortly with fond remembrances of times spent (or miss spent) in Chestnut Hills. Also, when the West End is ready for perusal.



submitted by: Mary Harbert Nophsker (WI '58)
Menrn40@aol.com

Remembering Ms Nutter. Oh, My!
I had Ms Nutter for first year Latin and junior English.
My freshman year I had somehow mixed up my schedule and was listed as being in every class first period. When I finally got to her class and went to explain the problem, she almost bit my head off and told me to sit down and she would deal with me later. Needless to say, as a freshman and not knowing anything about her, I was scared and embarrassed. It all worked out eventually, but I shivered in my shoes whenever she called my name. Later on that year she was fussing at one of the boys in class and I was doodling in my notebook. She walked over and said "What are you doing?" I answered "Nothing", and she switched her anger to me for lying, because I was doing something. The funny thing is, we learned to sing "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star" in Latin that year, and to this day I can still sing it. Every once in awhile I try to impress my grandchildren with that little skill.

I received the lowest grade on a test that I ever had on her English exam. I had always prided myself in being an A/B student and I had a D. This was when I saw another side to her. Somehow she took pity on the students who had made low scores and she let us take a makeup exam. I don't know whether it was that so many made low scores or that she really did have a soft side.



submitted by: Patricia Dofflemyer Nixon (WI '65)
nixonkp@yahoo.com

Right off in September with just a couple days under our belts Miss Nutter yelled at me in class. She asked me what type of child my parents were raising that I wasn't respecting her. This came out of the blue I was nearly in tears and had no idea what I did. She made me stay after class and I thought I'd had it. She said she had to make an example of someone at the first of the year and that year it was me and she knew I hadn't done anything to deserve being yelled at. At that point I remember I was in tears, I think relief.

She was a great teacher because you were afraid not to learn. I will always remember her and that’s for sure.



MY FIRST CAR

submitted by: Wayne White (WI '60)
waynepawco@verizon.net

The vehicle I drove was a 1955 Mercury. Some of my class mates remember it. I had a fast car--It was at the Ellis Drive Inn a lot of the time. I had a few drag races up the old Bridgport Hill and usually won my share. Back then there was a lot of car drags up that hill. I had a Hurst speed shift, the vehicle had the California Rake as to body style and under the hood had a few goodies that made it run the best. The color was two tone blue and had the fender skirts which made it stand out with the chrome wheels. If i had this vehicle now would be worth a lot of money



submitted by: John Teter (WI '61)
jteter@balmar.com

I can remember my family having three cars during my tenure of living at home. One of the cars, which I think was a DeSota and/or a Dodge never seemed to run and was just sitting out in front of our house on Broaddus Avenue. The second car that I can remember was a Dodge that was the first car that I ever drove. Unfortunately my most memorable experience driving this car was coming up the street from Kroger’s and when I tried coming to a STOP at the top of the hill to turn onto Locust Avenue the brakes did not work, so I drifted back into the car behind me doing extensive damage to that car but none to my parents’ car. I can remember getting in MAJOR trouble for that incident, but what was I to do – THERE WERE NO BRAKES! The third car that I can remember my parents having was an Oldsmobile; black and white; with the sun visor (?) over the front windshield. My most memorable experience driving that car was doing a loop coming down off the ramp from Chestnut Street onto the Freeway on my way to see Edith Kline. LUCKILY, I did not hit anything and there was no damage done to the car. I went on over to see Edith like nothing had happened, and (until now) NOBODY ever knew about that happening. BUT, I can remember not having ANY CONTROL over that car when I was looping around, and I was petrified.


submitted by: Judy Daugherty Kimler (WI '59)
jkimler@verizon.net



My first car was a 1959 turquoise Buick Le Sabre. My father drove Buicks and I really liked them. It was a used car and I don't remember exactly how much it cost but I think it was around $1200. I really enjoyed the smooth ride it had. It just floated over bumps and dips. I kept this car for several years and still had it when I moved to Huntington in 1966. Eventually, a few things started going bad and my father insisted that I trade it in before it failed completely. I got a 1965 Buick Special to replace it. It wasn't nearly as nice but it was newer and didn't have any problems.



OLD RADIO SHOWS

submitted by: Mary Stump Harrell (WI '55)
msharrell2005@verizon.net

And old radio shows: Buck Rogers, Tom Mix, Information Please, Dr. IQ, The Green Hornet ,The Halls of Ivy. Dagwood - remember Mrs. Bufforfington and Digger O'Dell the friendly undertaker? Do you think that if you said something to a young person today about "Fibber McGee's closet" they would get it? And how about George Burns and Gracie Allen? Remember Gracie's filing system?



DRIVE-IN MOVIE STOWAWAYS

submitted by: Dr. C. R. Thomas (WI '56)
Matthew1926@lcsys.net

Andrew Brian Hamilton moved to the Hill on South Seventh when he was in the eighth grade and I was in the ninth. I still remember the hard hitting football tackle he threw on me on the Alvarez Football Field, the matchbox sized vacant lot right next-door to Alan Ogden Alvarez’s family’s home and only two doors from where Andy lived and four doors from my house. Andy—or Drew—and I soon became good friends.

Initially, I was drawn to Andy as a friend for several reasons: he was good at sports, especially at football—i.e., later making the high school varsity for three years—he was witty, cynical, and intelligent, and he had a profound interest in adventures. Andy and I and perhaps a dozen other guys were bonded by our cynical values, our sardonic perspectives on life, and our love of sports, especially basketball. We all had things in common, but not everything. Each of us had his specialties. As a high school derelict, I specialized in wild things—instigating pranks and trouble, getting drunk, and going on hitchhiking adventures. Drew, who focused mostly on “being cool,” was absolutely fascinated by my wild travel excursions—like the summer Saturday at midnight I was blitzed and hitchhiked with two other WI classmates in the back of a huge Pittsburgh Press newspaper truck to Pittsburgh, riding almost all the way to the downtown Golden Triangle.

For several reasons, Andy and I never set out together on an adventure. His parents kept a closer watch on him, and because he was a year younger, he usually hung out with his own classmates, whereas I tended to hang out in neighborhoods all over town—making friends primarily by playing basketball, telling jokes, and trading insults.

Oftentimes, we guys on the Hill would sit on a wall, steps, or street corner talking late into the night about our various adventures, pranks, and misdeeds. And Andy would seriously regret never having had any “really neat adventures.” I always promised him that one day the two of us would find something really wild to do. Then, one summer day right before his junior year and my senior year, our first real adventure as a team started falling into place.

Our plan was quite simple. We’d find a ride to the Ellis Drive-in Movie, hide in the car trunk, and then sneak in without paying. We’d hang out near the concession area—an excellent location for checking out girls—and in between times, we’d watch the movie. Bob Davis, my classmate from the East End, had a car and a date for the drive-in that same summer Saturday night and agreed to help. When I set it up, Bob stipulated: “You can both hide in my car trunk to sneak in, Chuck, but then, you’ll have to find your own ride back home to Clarksburg.” I emphatically assured my long-time friend—“No problem, Bob! You get us there—Andy and I will find a ride back! Guaranteed!!”

The plan went well. Bob and his girlfriend picked us up in front of the Hagan’s Ice Cream Store, we rode almost to the drive-in, then Andy and I got out and hid in the car trunk, and once inside the drive-in, Bob let us out of his car trunk.

Andy was ecstatic. At last, he was in the midst of an adventure. It was still daylight, so we found a good spot close to the concession area and started checking out the babes. Since the Ellis Drive-in was five miles from Clarksburg and only a mile from Bridgeport, there were girls there from the five Clarksburg high schools, including our own, WI, and also from Bridgeport. We talked with the girls we knew, yelled at others, and a few voluntarily came over to talk with us—probably drawn to Andy's good looks. Anyway, we saw hundreds of people heading for refreshments—his classmates, my classmates, and other people we knew from dances and parties.

Andy and I were both exuberant as the coming attractions were playing. But he was more pumped because we got in free and were meeting all these good looking girls. We hoped some of them might even pick us up after the movie when we were thumbing home. We were positive we’d get a ride the five miles back to Clarksburg.

At intermission, we beat the crowd to the concession area to get our refreshments for the second half of the movie. In addition, we met a few more girls and saw more people we knew. And as the second half of the movie was ending, we hastily made it out the exit so we could get out on Route 19 to start hitchhiking. We picked a spot to thumb where a car could easily pull over to pick us up and take us back to Clarksburg. Up to that point, “Everything was going like clockwork!” . . . as the old cliché goes.

But after about 5,000 cars left the drive-in, zoomed right past us towards Clarksburg, and none of them stopped to pick us up—Andy’s mood changed. I did mention that Andy was cynical. But maybe I neglected to say that during bad times, Drew could be downright pessimistic. And this was one of those times. Once the drive-in was empty, we essentially had two choices. We could stand there on the far side of Bridgeport Hill—4 miles to Clarksburg and still almost another mile to South Seventh Street and continue to thumb—or we could start walking. We opted to walk.

Neither of us was in a joyous mood. And to pass the unfortunate two and a half hour trek, we began to curse all the people who didn’t pick us up. About an hour later and a little after midnight, we greeted two older, down-and out drunks walking in the opposite direction towards Bridgeport: “How ya doin’?” They mumbled something incoherent back from the other side of the highway. That long boring, arduous walk home was a bleak ending to our hoped-for adventure that initially had so much promise.

The Marquise du Deffand’s quotation about the length of a journey is well known: “The distance is nothing; it is only the first step that is difficult.” Based totally upon our experience that dismal night of walking 4.6 miles home when we couldn’t get a ride hitchhiking, I think Andy—were he still alive—and I would humbly disagree. We would respectfully say: “In a journey, the first step is nothing; it’s the next 8,489 steps that prove to be the most difficult.”



RECIPE

submitted by: Charles McClung (VHS '48)
CMCCLUNGSR@MSN.COM

CARAMEL MARSHMALLOWS

14 oz. caramels
1/2 cup butter
14 oz. sweetened condensed milk
1 bag large marshmallows
Rice Krispies

Melt caramels, butter and milk in a double boiler. Dip marshmallows into the caramel mixture and then roll them in Rice Krispies.

Serve at room temperature



CRANBERRY PISTACHIO BISCOTTI

submitted by: Carol VanHorn Dean (WI '58)
DBLU2@aol.com

Makes about 4 dozen

Ingredients:
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup boiling water
3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
4 Tbsp. unsalted butter, room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar
4 large eggs
2 tsp. pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup shelled pistachios, coarsely chopped
1/4 cup sanding sugar

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375 ^ Place cranberries in a small bowl, and add 1/2 cup boiling water, or enough to cover. Let stand until cranberries are plump, about 15 minutes.

Drain and set aside. In a medium bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside. Line a baking sheet with a Silpat or parchment paper, and set aside

2. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream butter and sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add 3 eggs, one at a time, beating to incorporate after each addition. Beat in vanilla. Add the dry ingredients, beating on low, until fully combined. Stir in the drained cranberries and pistachios.

3. Remove dough to a lightly floured surface. Divide in two. Roll each piece into a 2x18inch long log, and place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 3 inches between logs. Flatten logs slightly with palm of hand. In a small bowl, lightly beat remaining egg. Brush logs with beaten egg, and sprinkle with sanding sugar.

4. Bake for 25 minutes. Remove from oven, and cool on a rack until warm to the touch, about 20 minutes. Place logs on a cutting board, and cut crosswise on the diagonal into ¾ inch pieces. Return biscotti to baking sheet, cut side down. Bake until biscotti are beginning to brown around the edges, about 12 minutes more.

Transfer to wire racks to cool.



RING OUT THE OLD, BRING IN THE NEW!

THE NEW YEAR

submitted by: Dahrie Christiansen Hayman (WI '64)
DHayman2@cfl.rr.com

“I am the New Year. I am unused, unspotted, without blemish. I stretch before you three hundred and sixty-five days long. I will present each day in its turn, a new leaf in the Book of Life, for you to place upon it your imprint.

“I am the New Year. It remains for you to make of it what you will. If you write with firm, steady strokes, my pages will be a joy to look upon when the next New Year comes. If the pen falters, if uncertainty or doubt should mar the page, it will become a day to remember with pain.

“I am the New Year. Each hour of the three hundred and sixty-five days, I will give you sixty minutes that have never known the use of man. White and pure, I present them. It remains for you to fill them with sixty jeweled seconds of love, hope, endeavor, and patience.

“I am the New Year. I am here but once past. I can never be recalled. Make me your best.”



OBITUARIES

ROYCE LEMUEL DAVIS

Mr. Royce Lemuel Davis, 86 years of age, of Pennsylvania Avenue, Bridgeport, WV, died on Sunday, December 7, 2008, at his residence surrounded by his family. He was born January 10, 1922, in Clarksburg, WV, the son of the late Darcy and Emily Gould Davis.

Mr. Davis is survived by his wife, Nadine Burner Davis. They were married July 19, 1969 and had celebrated 39 years of marriage. He is also survived by a son; Rodney McEldowney and his wife Wendy of Bridgeport, a daughter; Brenda Swiger and her husband Dale of Bridgeport, two special grandchildren; Eric Swiger of Bridgeport and Erin Jacobs and her husband Kemper of Quiet Dell, four great grandchildren; Chelsea and Haley Swiger and Jackson and Hayden Jacobs and nephews; Ed Tetrick, Allen Tetrick, Gary Eavenson and Doug Eavenson. He was also preceded in death by three brothers; Paul, Robert and Billy Davis and one sister; Mary Lou Tetrick Eavenson.

He retired from Roberts Hardware as the office manager and served as the company’s secretary/treasurer. He was a lifetime member of the First United Methodist Church in Clarksburg, WV. He was active in the church as an usher and treasurer.

Mr. Davis graduated from Washington Irving High School in 1940. He received his bachelor of arts degree in accounting and business from Bowling Green University. He was a veteran of the United States Navy during World War II. He worked as the store keeper on the USS Regal in the Pacific Theater. He was a member of the American Legion Post 68.

Mr. Davis enjoyed golfing, bowling, fishing and camping. As a child he loved to garden and would sell the produce with his sister, Mary Lou. Throughout his life, he continued to garden and grow beautiful flowers around his home.



JUNIUS K. (J.K.) MUSSER III

Mr. Junius K. “J.K.” Musser III, age 60, of 152 Anthony Avenue, Clarksburg, WV, passed away at 8:55 p.m. Friday, December 5, 2008, at the United Hospital Center following a brief illness. He was born in Clarksburg, WV, March 15, 1948, a son of the late Junius K. “J.K.” Musser Jr. and Martha Jean Gregoire Musser. Surviving are his wife of over thirty-eight years, Sara C. Trecost Musser, whom he married May 23, 1970; a son, J. K. Musser IV, at home; a daughter and son-in-law, Kristi Anne Musser Meadows and her husband Jeffrey, Morgantown, WV; and an aunt, Mrs. Aline L. Riley, Bridgeport, WV.

Mr. Musser was a graduate of Washington Irving High School’s Class of 1966, and he had attended Eastern Michigan University. He was the former owner of Musser’s Service Centers in the Clarksburg area.



ANNA KATHERINE BENNETT

BRIDGEPORT — Mrs. Anna Katherine Bennett, 79 years, of Bridgeport, WV, died on Tuesday, December 16, 2008, at the Heartland of Clarksburg, Clarksburg, WV.

She was born January 6, 1929, in Pittsburgh, PA, the daughter of the late Gayle and Erma Pool.

She was preceded in death by her first husband, Charles G. Bennett, and her second husband, Reverend Melvin Daniel Comeau.

Mrs. Bennett is survived by one son, Jeff Bennett of Clarksburg; a daughter, Sharon Stuart and her husband Dan of Bridgeport; eight grandchildren, Marissa Bennett, Christopher Bennett, Holly Stuart, Amy Stuart, Scott Stuart, Tabitha Bennett, Trisha McKinney and Timothy Bennett; and great-grandchildren, Danika, Bailey and Olivia.

She was also preceded in death by a son, Charles Thomas Bennett; four brothers, Charles, Albert Ray, Roy and Bus Pool; and two sisters, Betty Swiger and Jane Kline.

Mrs. Bennett worked for Criss Cross as a coordinator. She was a graduate of Washington Irving High School. She enjoyed playing bridge with her friends, and in her early years she was an accomplished dancer and gymnast. Her talents led her to perform in Pittsburgh at the Syria Mosque.



ORLANDO COLOMBO

Orlando Colombo, noted musician, of Cimarron Road, Clarksburg, passed away at 10:30 p.m. at his residence Monday, December 1, 2008. He was born in Nutter Fort, West Virginia, January 25, 1932, the son of the late Battista Colombo and Antonia Tiano Colombo. His wife of 54 years, Elizabeth Ann Buzzard Colombo, whom he married October 2, 1954, survives.

Also surviving are four children, Christopher Colombo and his wife Elizabeth Lockard Colombo of Clarksburg, Jane Colombo Kitzmiller and her husband David of Bridgeport, Ann Colombo Bellotte of Florida, and Regina Colombo Eifert and her husband Bill of New Jersey; five grandchildren, Joseph Bellotte of Radford, Virginia, Elizabeth Colombo Wright and her husband T.J., and Anna Colombo, all of Clarksburg, and Will Eifert and Allison Eifert of New Jersey; one great granddaughter, Angelina Wright of Clarksburg; two brothers, Rudolph Colombo and his wife Sondra of Clarksburg, and his twin brother, Dr. Armando Colombo of Parkersburg; three sisters, Angela Colombo of Stonewood, Josephine Colombo Quinn of Clarksburg, and Sister Jean Colombo, S.S.J. of Parkersburg; several nieces, nephews, and cousins; two sisters-in-law, Lillie Colombo and Carmella Colombo, both of Clarksburg.

Orlando was a member of “The Colombo family with 21 children.” In addition to his parents, Mr. Colombo was preceded in death by sixteen brothers and sisters, Samuel Colombo, Dr. Joseph Colombo, Louis Colombo, James Colombo, Frank Colombo, Anthony Colombo, Sammie Colombo Guzzo, Raymond Colombo, Russell Colombo; Rose Colombo Barberio, Pasqueline Colombo Wartman, Velma Colombo, Tresa Colombo Cuckler, Margaret Colombo Lopez and Sister Frances Cabrini, S.S.J.

Mr. Colombo was a well-known musician with his own orchestra, the “Orlando Colombo Orchestra” with the Big Band Sound for 50 years, having a large following. He was a devout member of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Stonewood all of his life. He was a veteran of the Korean Conflict for two years. He was a member of the Veteran of Foreign Wars Post 573 in Clarksburg, Clarksburg Lodge 482 B.P.O. Elks and Federation Musicians 580.

He was a graduate of Roosevelt-Wilson High School, Class of 1949, attended West Virginia University and graduated from Salem College. Orlando taught music at Notre Dame High School and also taught in Harrison County Public Schools. He was a past member of the Harrison County Board of Education. He worked as an Industrial Electrician at the Pittsburgh Plate Glass Industries until its closing and then went on to retire from the Human Resources Development Foundation.

Orlando was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and loved his Catholic faith, his country and his family.



VICTOR JUNIOR “BILL” WOODWARD

FREDERICK, Md. — Mr. Victor Junior “Bill” Woodward, 65, of New Market, died on Friday, December 12, 2008, at Frederick Memorial Hospital. He was the husband of Frances Ann Burdiss Woodward, his wife of 46 1/2 years. Born on February 24, 1943, in Clarksburg, WV, he was the son of the late Victor and Leoma Marie Cross Woodward.

Bill was fortunate enough to explore several successful careers, beginning as a truck driver with Woodruff Airco, the Clarksburg, WV, Police Dept., where he was a member of the local FOP, and in the automotive glass industry with Adamston Glass Factory, Fourco Glass Co., Asahi Glass Co., Banner Glass Co. and Royal Glass Co. Bill was an avid reader, and enjoyed golf and watching westerns and the news; but most of all loved spending time with his family and granddaughters, who he loved dearly.

Surviving in addition to his wife are 2 daughters, Lori Ann Short and husband David of Bridgeport, WV, and Vicki Michele Woodward-Smith of New Market; 2 grandchildren, Ashton Nicole Short and Jade Madison Smith; a sister, Barbara Walton and husband David of Bridgeport, WV; and a brother, Keith Woodward and wife Patsy of Hanover, PA.

Mr. Woodward was preceded in death by a grandmother, Anna Gabbert Woodward, and a nephew, Kevin David Walton.



ANNA M. GROSSA

CLARKSBURG — Mrs. Anna M. Grossa, age 93, of 123 South Pike Street, Anmoore, WV, passed away at 7:12 a.m. Monday, December 15, 2008, at the United Hospital Center following an extended illness.

She was born in Clarksburg, WV, January 11, 1915, a daughter of the late Martin Krosmico & Mary Bai Krosmico.

Her husband, Metro Grossa, whom she married April 4, 1937, preceded her in death January 12, 1989.

Surviving are, two daughters and sons-in-law, Barbara and David Ferraro, Memphis, TN and Carolyn Sonja and James Alvaro, Buford, GA, two sons and a daughter-in-law, Metro Grossa, Jr., Altamonte Springs, FL and Patrick and Joyce Grossa, Royal Palms Beach, FL, a brother, John Krosmico and wife Ann, Clarksburg, WV, sisters-in-law, Angelina Krosmico, Clarksburg, WV and Ruth Krosmico, Bridgeport, WV, twelve grandchildren, ten great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

Mrs. Grossa was also preceded in death by five brothers, Louie, Joseph, Brownie, Frank and Steve Krosmico and a sister, Carolyn Galka.

Mrs. Grossa was a member of All Saints Catholic Church and was a homemaker.



DALLAS FRED CORNELL

DEBARY, Fla. — Dallas Fred Cornell, 82, of Providence Boulevard, died Dec. 10, 2008, at his home.

A graveside service with full military honors was held at 10 a.m. Friday, Dec. 19, 2008, at Deltona Memorial Gardens, 1295 Saxon Blvd. in Orange City.

Mr. Cornell was an independent catastrophe claims adjuster, operating his own business for 25 years. Earlier, he retired as an employee of General Adjustment Bureau Inc. after 27 years. And he was a member of the Clarksburg, W.Va., Police Department, 1949-52. Born in Clarksburg, he moved to Deltona in 1979.

He graduated from Washington Irving High School in 1943, and graduated from Salem College in Salem, W.Va., in 1949 with a Bachelor of Science in business administration.

Mr. Cornell was an active life member of the Fraternal Order of Police, Mountaineer Lodge No. 78; an active and life member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8093 in DeBary; and a member of the National Association of Catastrophe Adjusters Inc., serving as president 1989-90, and being named a lifetime member in 1989.

He was an equity member of Deltona Hills Golf and Country Club, serving on the club’s board of directors for three years, as the club’s vice president for one year and as president of the club’s M.G.A. for one year.

Mr. Cornell served as a sergeant in the 3rd Marine Division of the U.S. Marine Corps, was stationed on Guam during World War II and saw combat action on Iwo Jima, receiving a combat ribbon.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Dallas Donald Cornell and Elsie M. Kennedy Cornell, and one sister, Louise. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Judith Elaine Lottrill Cornell; one daughter, Jane Lynne Griffin and her husband, Douglas, of Parish, N.Y.; one son, Clark Alan and his wife, Terri, of Wichita, Kan.; two sisters, Doris Jean Blackburn of Elkins, W.Va., and Carolyn Lee Hardkan of Clarksburg; five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.



THELMA JANE BARTOS

CLARKSBURG — Thelma Jane Bartos, 86, of Oak Drive, Clarksburg, passed away on Tuesday, December 23, 2008, at her residence following an extended illness.

Mrs. Bartos was born in Clarksburg on December 26, 1921, a daughter of the late Albert and Mary Criss.

She was married to Emery J. Bartos, who preceded her in death in 2007. Surviving are one son, Dr. Robert Bartos and his wife Barbara, Carlisle, PA; one grandson, Jason Bartos, Los Angeles, CA; one brother, Roy Criss and his wife Susan; one sister, Betty Cox and husband Stanley of Columbus, OH; and several nieces and nephews. She was also preceded in death by one sister, Madolyn King. Mrs. Bartos was a member of the Duff Street United Methodist Church.



RONALD A. CHARTRAND, SR.

March 22nd 1937 - December 28th 2008

On December 28, 2008, Ronald A. Chartrand, Sr. beloved husband of Martha B. Chartrand (nee Norris); devoted father of Christina B. Chartrand and the late Ronald Albert Chartrand, Jr.; dear brother of David P. Chartrand of Seattle, Washington.

Private services to be held.



NICHOLAS ‘NICK’ ALVARO

CLARKSBURG — Nicholas “Nick” Alvaro, 70, of Harrison Street, Clarksburg, passed way on Friday, December 19, 2008, at his residence.

Mr. Alvaro was the owner of Tony’s Body Shop and a valued contributor to Notre Dame High School and Immaculate Conception Catholic Church.

He was born in Clarksburg on January 24, 1938, the only son of the late Tony and Josephine Gallo Alvaro.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Joretta Folio Alvaro, whom he married June 18, 1960.

Also surviving are three children, Nick Alvaro and his wife Ann, Clarksburg, Angela Alvaro Junkins, Clarksburg, and Sam Alvaro and his wife Angela, Clarksburg; six grandchildren, Katie, Nicholas and Stephanie Alvaro, Michael Anthony Junkins, and Franchesca and Gina Rose Alvaro.

He was also preceded in death by one grandchild, Samuel Joseph Alvaro II.

Mr. Alvaro was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus, 4th degree.

Mr. Alvaro was former owner and operator of Alvaro’s Pizza. He was a stock car driver, known to many as “The Pizza Man,” having raced on various dirt tracks, with his favorite being the I-79 Race Track.



NOTE WRITTEN BY:

submitted by: Pat Elder (ND '57)
St1Pat@aol.com

My ole pal next door-Nick Alvaro

Nick Alvaro & I lived next door to each other on Harrison St. in Broad Oaks.When Nick was your friend, then he was really your friend. He was that to me! Not everyone really knew him inside. He was a private type guy. I think I was fortunate to know him inside. Nick liked to show a gruff side, but he was a big pussy cat. He had real strong feelings for his friends & he would do some very good things & no one would ever know. Nick was a very good athlete & would have earned honors in anything he chose to play. His father Tony was dead set against him playing any organized sports & Nick was one to honor his parents wishes. Coach Folio & he didn't see eye to eye either. I always tried to talk Nick into coming to Notre Dame, but he would not cross his father on it. We played independent league basketball together after high school all over W. Va. & Nick was one of the best players anywhere. He was a real avid race car & motorcycle racer & I always thought of him as "Invincible". He died last week at 70 yrs. old & his Memorial Service is today, Dec. 23, 2008. The Alvaros were great neighbors & friends to our family & even though I don't get to Clarksburg very often from Dayton I sure miss him already & it will be hard to drive by his Body Shop the next time home.

" Good luck ole buddy, & I hope God gives you the biggest, shiniest car in Heaven & that you have happiness forever."





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