THE WI NEWSLETTER 08/12


THE WI NEWSLETTER


Editor: Roleta Smith Meredith Issue 156 August 2012






THE WINNER

On July 15, 2012, I personally delivered the 2012 Washington Irving Newsletter Quilt, "Visions of West Virginia" to the winner Patty Meredith Wills. Patty lives in Fairmont, WV. She was so happy to receive it ---I tried to talk her into letting me have the quilt but she was not willing. As you can see, the quilt is lovely in her home. She was happy to have been the winner and said she will support the scholarship again this year. The value of the quilt was placed at over $2,500.00. VISIONS OF WEST VIRGINIA raised $3,600.00 for the scholarship, we hope the 2013 quilt will raise even more. The quilt was in honor of the Civil War having begun 150 years ago, thus the patterns of the materials used were duplicates of materials used in the years of the Civil War. Also, each square had an artist drawing of something that depicts West Virginia.


The WIN Quilters have now made 7 quilts. Each of the ladies have finished their artistic quilt squares and have sent the squares to Sue Selby Moats who is putting the top together for the 2013 quilt.

The ticket sale will begin in October so start setting aside your money to send to buy the tickets. The drawing for the quilt will be held at the annual Clarksburg Reunion Picnic held in Sarasota, Florida on March 10, 2013.

More details on both will be in a future newsletter.



NAME THE BAND AT THE BRIDGEPORT CIVIC CENTER

submitted by: Emma Lee Hite (WI '60)
via Mary Ann (Hite) Williams (WI '52)

We think the band at the Bridgeport Civic Center in the late '50's and early '60's you asked about last month was The Fabians from Morgantown. One became a dentist and was ADA president. Another was superintendent of schools in Monongalia County. One who subbed on guitar became president of KMart. We're not sure of the others nor their names nor details. Maybe someone else knows; we would be happy to have more knowledge of this popular group.



submitted by: Bob Teter (WI '60)

I asked both of my siblings this very question and have not gotten a reply. In the meantime it seems to me the name was "The Monzas"?



submitted by: Bill Bryan (RW '57)

I am losing it or this a case of deja vu! As I thought about this, I'm almost sure I've submitted a year or so ago what follows.....I might be wrong, but I think the early '60s the Fabians were the group that played the Bridgeport Civic Center. Those tenor saxes were great! I didn't dance much but stood by the amps for that great music. I'm surprised my hearing is okay today! I think their opening number was always "Wild Weekend", an instrumental by The Rebels---a 45 rpm I still have (or I would have forgotten The Rebels!) The reminiscences (yes, I had to use the dictionary) your questions provoke are one of the best things about the Newsletter! It's really nice to look forward to the WI Newsletter the first of each month!



LOWNDES HILL

EDITOR'S NOTE: Do you have any memories of Lowndes Hill? Write and share them with us. Write to: Roleta1@aol.com

submitted by: Steve Bias (WI 1958, 1959 and 1/2 of 1960)

During 1957, '58 and '59 Lowndes Hill was a playground for us kids living just below it. (From downtown, you take E. 2nd Street straight up 'til the top, and there it is.)

I lived at 182 Hickman Street, near the intersection with E. 2nd St.
Kenny White (WI '59) was across Hickman Street.
A little further up 2nd St on the right was Sue Smith (WI '59) RIP.
At the next intersection on Elliott St - Beverly Felts WI '60), my first date! And her brother; Stuart "Butch Felts (WI 1961?)
If you turned left on Elliott St and went eastward down the hill at the next intersection - Jarvis St. - lived Randy Coyner (WI '60).
You turn and go north on Jarvis and at the bottom of that hill, on the corner of Washington St. was Bill Stanton (WI '60).

We used to go up to Lowndes Hill wooded areas and play football and baseball on hard ground and rocks just to the left (east) of 2nd St. Naturally we usually had only one baseball, so if you hit a long one-or foul ball the cry was "lost ball" and everyone went into the brush to find it. We didn't always find the ball, so game over. Sometimes we found an old moldy wet and ragged lost ball from the past. We would then use that one. The first few times you hit it the batter (and catcher) would get a face full of wet stuff. The wet ball would not go very far when you hit it, sometimes a solid hit that would be a homer, slurred to a stop half-way to 1st base.

In the fall of 1959 I joined the Civil Air Patrol - our job was to climb into the (forestry type) tower at the center of Lowndes Hill and report all the aircraft we saw - which wasn't many - or any. A couple of few times I "stood watch" looking for Russian bombers I became soooo bored. I quit the CAP before I could get a uniform, which is the real reason to join!

When it snowed on Lowndes Hill top area it was a wonderland. We would build snow caves and pretend that we "surviving."

Another good snow benefit was helping a driver by pushing their car from the curb. We usually got 25 cents each. The ingrate that stiffed us got a snowball surprise on their front door when they returned and wet mail in the mailbox.

In 1959, I think, we found some abandoned shacks further down and south of the ball playing area. We would have BB gun fights - RULE: no shooting a guy above the legs!

A few guys would man a shack and others would storm it. BBs were going everywhere - shouts and screams - and cries "I surrender" were heard. No eyes lost.

Pellet guns began to appear, and they WERE dangerous. One story was that a boy was paid to shoot pigeons from the County Courthouse roof with his pellet gun. How neat that seemed - getting paid to shoot your rifle, get paid for it as a citizens service to the jail prisoners who sat on the Washington Street side steps. I believed it until Kenny White told me to count the pigeons each day. Pretty much the same number each day. Urban legend?


SEE IF YOU REMEMBER ANY OF THESE HOLLYWOOD PEOPLE

A MAGIC PIECE of HOLLYWOOD HISTORY that will never happen again...

From 1974, almost all of the Stars of MGM (New and Old) get together for one final picture.... to never happen again.

What a Memory Flashback to see all of these LEGENDS on one stage.

CLICK ON the LINK Below and get ready for an amazing one-time-only heart-warming photo shoot...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FVLJpjdIhVk



WHO IS THIS CHILD?



NOTE: We received a note from the little girl pictured who graduated from WI in 1960.

Every morning, when I glance in the bathroom mirror, I wonder where did that little girl go! She is still in there, somewhere, wondering who is looking back from the mirror at her.

The picture you used for the August photo segment was take at Pierpont Grade School when I was in, I think, in 4th Grade - maybe 5th Grade. I thought we were the only ones who had those pictures (my mother and myself) so it would be very interesting to know who sent the copy to you

Thank you for making all this fun possible for so many folks.

Terry Tibbs Davenport, Washington Irving High School, Class of 1960
mcprport@iw.net





WHO ARE THESE BATHING BEAUTIES?

Can you name any of the girls pictured below and the place where the picture was taken? Send in your guesses to Roleta1@aol.com. I won't print incorrect guesses.





You are invited to the Twelfth Annual WI Reunion Picnic in Clarksburg, West Virginia, on Saturday, August 25, 2012, at Veterans (River Bend) Park, off Milford St. The picnic will be in the Osborne Shelter, big pavilion across from the amphitheater. You can also get to it via the Nutter Fort area by going over Rt 98. The time is 11AM until the last one goes home...whenever that is. The picnic is for anyone who ever attended WI (YOU DO NOT HAVE TO BE A GRADUATE).

LET'S MAKE THIS A BIG WI REUNION DAY!

Sharyn Cottrill McGahan (WI 1959) is in charge of this picnic. She provides the table settings for you. You will need to bring a covered dish, your own drink, and money to put in the pot to help her cover her expenses. Some people bring a folding lawn chair. Don't forget your cameras!!!

You do not have to make a reservation but she will need to know about how many to expect. It is nice to be surprised but it isn't nice to be overcome with a large group of people and not have enough supplies. So write to Sharyn at mtmama41@msn.com and tell her you will see her there.

Also, If you can help please let her know. There is decorating, putting up the sign and lots of hauling the tables, pop ups and etc. Ice and getting some of the meatballs, peppers and sausage, plates, cups, napkins and all that out there.... she also will need help in setting up the food tables and electric cords....or if you can stay and help clean up.

If anyone needs directions to Veterans Park they can e-mail Sharyn.

Hope to see you all out there this year.



YESTERYEAR PICTURES SUBMITTED BY JACK EMERICK

submitted by: Dede Short King (WI '94)
KING4189@aol.com

I loved seeing the old black and white picture of the theater in Clarksburg. Although I do not remember it being anything other than "The Rose Garden Theater", it is just wonderful seeing so many people downtown enjoying themselves at the theater.




MORE YESTERYEAR PICTURES FROM JACK




BE SURE TO CHECK IN FUTURE NEWSLETTERS FOR MORE PICTURES





2012 R. C. BYRD SCHOLARSHIP RECEIPIENT
A THANK YOU NOTE

Dear Mrs.Meredith,

I would like to thank you and the WI Newsletter Readers for the gift of Education that your scholarship allows me to pursue. I plan on attending Fairmont in the fall to pursue my Teaching degree.

Again let me thank you for your gift. It will be put to good use.

Sincerely,
George M.Herrod
Lunarw0lf@aol.com

EDITOR'S NOTE: If you wish to contact this student who is just entering college for the first time this fall…..I am sure he would enjoy hearing personally from a WI Newsletter reader with some thoughts and encouragement concerning what he has ahead of him. Any teachers reading this? How about writing to tell him how you enjoyed your career. Use the email address shown above with his name. Thank you for taking a moment to give a word of wisdom to a young boy just starting his career.



SERVICE STATIONS

submitted by: Jim Nutter (WI '71)
jlnutter@hotmail.com

I remember back in the late 1950s through the mid-1960s the Esso station on the corner of East Main and Marshall Street would fix a flat bicycle tire for only fifty cents and provide free use of the air compressor. Across from the station, on the upper side of the Golf Plaza Grocery was a vacant lot which was used by the neighbor kids for whiffle ball and touch football. We were welcome to use the Esso's restroom and water fountain. I believe I drank my first Sprite purchased from their pop machine.

In our part of town that small lot was our playground. The older kids would keep order, chose teams and any kid that showed up was allowed to play. Some that I remember are: Andy Vac, Stephen Cooksey, Bruce Wells, Frankie Andy, the Butz brothers, and a lot of kids from Walldeck Street. Some of the boys would keep the grass cut, so the owner would let us play there.

During college, I wrote a term paper on Hiring the Handicap. Mr. Kellar was the station owner and supported the employment of workers with disabilities. He shared with me stories of those who were very good employees in spite of their challenges. Mr. Keller was also the father of Chuck Kellar WI '71. Both were good fellows.

The gas station is no longer there and a Hardee's now stands were we played ball.




submitted by: Terry Snider Fazio (WI '67)

My mother is in the process of cleaning out her house in preparation of moving to Maplewood in August. A couple of the items that my daughter has taken are 2 white cups that have a tiger on them and a glass cake plate with a metal lid on it. These all came from Esso. I have a set of salt and pepper shakers from my grandmother which has Fred H. Gregg, Esso Products, Middlebourne, WV imprinted on them. Whether any of these are worth anything, it doesn't matter. The fact they are part of family is the value.




submitted by: Bill Meredith (Monongah HS '57)

I have many memories of service stations, since I worked in several while going to high school, college, and even after I was married and living in Ohio.

During my high school days, I worked evenings and weekends in an Esso station in my home town. It was your typical family-owned business like most others at that time. I like to think that I got a big part of my education while working there. I say that, because every evening, right after "supper", several of the men living near the station would gather to tell stories (lies) and discuss the local news (gossip). I learned a lot about life in general and details of many people's lives in our small town in particular, including some things a young man in high school shouldn't have known. I don't remember what I was paid per hour, but I do remember washing cars on Saturday for $1.50 each, of which I got $.50. Gas sold for around $0.25 per gallon and you could "fill-erup" for under $5.00.

During college, I worked at a Petosol station. Many of you familiar with Morgantown may remember it, since it sat next door to the bus station. I worked nights and tried to study between customers. One thing I vividly remember is the night I listened to Harvey Haddix pitch 13 innings of no-hit ball, only to lose the game. It's funny how you can remember where you were when historic things happen.

My last service station job was in Worthington, OH at a Humble station. It was actually an Exxon (Esso) station, but since Sohio was also Standard Oil, they were banned from using Esso. At least that is what I was told. We did everything to attract customers. We cleaned all of the car's windows, checked the oil and even swept the floor mats. We gave away dishes and treated the motoring public like ladies and gentlemen.

All in all, I feel working in those stations prepared me well for the business world I later entered.

My wish today is that someone or some company would put the service back in service stations.




submitted by: Carolyn Hinzman Ramsay (Weston High '52) –moved away or it would have been WI 1952

As for the service stations in town, I remember as a small child (1937 or so) going to Grafton to visit grandparents, and there was a station at the triangle where Pike and Main Streets meet in West End, across from Hartland Planing Mill offices. (I think it was Gulf Oil, but not positive, and it later changed to Pure Oil.)




submitted by: Linda Jenkins Purnell (WI '67)

I just remember how we all took for granted that we could drive up - have the gas pumped and the windshield cleaned – while we sat in the car. When anything remotely seemed wrong – I could always stop and ask the attendant for help – especially if he was young and cute- and there were a few of those. What great jobs for young guys back then - too bad young boys can't do that today.

If my memory serves me right- seems I was married- when everything changed. I had to pump the gas- no attendant in sight. I thought- "I can't do this- I don't know how". I thought it all seemed so dangerous – I can't be messing with gasoline- heaven forbid!

I remember the green stamps – and the books we filled to get those wonderful gifts. We always had our gift picked out and couldn't wait to cash in. The stations had all those eye-appealing gifts on display - it was so hard to decide - usually us kids coveted something that our parents weren't remotely interested in - but it was fun hoping maybe we could change their minds.

When we began to drive – we would all pool our money to buy gas - thinking how expensive it was – little did we know how cheap it was in today's world. What fun we had cruising around – with the security of those gas attendants if we heard an unfamiliar noise or just wanted to flirt with the cute attendant- ha




submitted by: LaDonna Davis Emerick (RW '56)

Thanks again for all you do.

Gas stations in the '50's Spur and Red Head . Cost $0.23 - $0.25 gallon. Could buy $2.00 worth of gas and cruise around all evening. Great time !!




submitted by: Pam Carson Leggett (WI '66)

I remember the Red Head Service Station on West Pike Street and sitting in the back of my parents' car and seeing young guys drive in and purchase $1.00 (yes that is right ONE dollar) worth of gas and getting 3 gallon of gas. Those days are gone but not forgotten!

I also remember the Sutton and Crim Esson Station in Adamston (where Toni's Dairy King is now).




submitted by: Roleta Smith Meredith (WI '59)

I remember there was a Sinclair Gas Station on Milford Street directly across from the Stealey Methodist Church and Stealey Playground was located across the side street and on the other side was a small pharmacy.

My daddy always went to this station. I remember they cleaned the windshield, checked the oil, checked the radiator fluid, and the tires all while the gas was flowing into the gas tank of the car. I spent many, long fun filled afternoons and evenings at the Stealey Playground when I was 10 to 13 years of age and there were no bathroom facilities at the playground, so the logical place to go was the Sinclair restroom and the people there never said a work about us using the restroom.

I don't know if there is still a gas station located there; however, a few years ago we traveled down Milford Street and the Methodist Church is there and has an addition built onto it. Funny, when I went there, the church seemed so large and when I last saw it, it seemed small. The playground is still there and has been upgraded. I wonder if they still hire college students to run summer activities for the children and I really doubt if they still show movies at night. These things were what made the playground so special. I remember how sad it was when the playground director was through for the season, the playground was sort of dead until the next season started. Also, I didn't notice if the swings were there. I am sure everyone who went to that playground remembers the swings. There was even a rumor that someone had pumped high enough on the swings to wrap around the parallel bar…as hard as I tried, I was never able to go around…I just went higher than the parallel bar and then there would be a big drop back down in the same direction in which I arrived. I was always disappointed. It was impossible! Kids were very naďve …..By the way, I am pretty sure I met Judy Daugherty Kimler (my side kick in the newsletter) at the playground one summer way back when.

I have wonderful memories of full service gas stations and a great playground.




submitted by: Jim Alvaro (WI '56)

The earliest gas stations I remember had a large glass bowl on top of the tank. The tank was calibrated into gallons. If remembering correctly, the customer would ask for so many gallons of gas instead of dollar amount, and of course ask for the windshield to be cleaned, oil checked, and tire pressure checked. The attendant would open a valve and fill the glass bowl to the gallon amount which the customer asked. The attendant would dispense the gas and when the bowl was completely empty, the customer received that amount. I think the cheapest gas I remember, (I was not old enough to drive at that time), was 23 cents a gallon.

Also, customers would run by and ask for "bulk oil." This was oil that was drained from oil changes or the oil that was left in cans after pouring into the engine. After pouring into the engine, the gas cans were turned upside down in drums so that the remaining oil in the can would drain. People would use this oil for their cars and trucks, especially those that burned a lot of oil, and there were plenty of those back then. This type of oil was very inexpensive.

Oh, to go back to those days. Hummm, maybe not.



THOUGHTS ON "A TRUE WASHINGTON IRVING SUBSTITUTE"

submitted by: Sherry Ellen Hutchison Keith (WI '64)

We had an occasional substitute in English class my sophomore year at WI. Her name was Mrs. Norman and her hubby was a coach, I believe in Basketball... She was kind, sweet and tried to please us and we were, as all classes of students are when they get the treat of a "substitute" teacher, immediately silly, goofy and stupid. We were constantly trying to get her off subject and confusing her, for our own entertainment. She never minded in the least. Her patience was deep and unending. She would smile and begin again, whatever thought/lesson was she was trying to impart to us. The game continued for the full 40 minutes or hour of class, and would be on again anytime Mrs. Norman appeared at our teachers' desk. Giggles, spitballs the sound of ripping out and crunching of notebook paper topped off with the paper snowballs whizzing past or into the heads of classmates across the large room, followed by "Hey, man!" or "Stop that!" shouted by classmates. Mrs. Norman did not truly confront unless it was the last resort. She was a softy.

Why even consider her after all these many years? Well, it is not only because, I too have a teaching degree that was used at times to be a "substitute". Not only that I had also dealt with the giggles and name switching, gum in the long red hair, spitballs and whizzing paper balls, not to mention, the 30 bouncing paper frogs with accordion folded legs that hopped down from the window ledges on a spring breeze when the windows were all opened up on an innocent suggestion from the class! No, none of these things is why I remember Mrs. Norman.

I remember Mrs. Norman because her great love was the short story. She instilled that love in me and I often wonder how many of my former classmates feel the same. It seemed to fit her attention span somehow. But she drilled it into us as we read, or heard her read, short stories from the many renowned authors who excelled in that genre. Washington Irving was her lead off, of course, followed by the likes of O.Henry, Oscar Wilde, Guy de Maupassant, Mark Twain, Leo N.Tolstoi, Anton P. Chekhov, Ernest Hemingway, Dorothy Parker, Honore' de Balzac, George Orwell and Robert Louis Stevenson.

As the years go by, I become more like Mrs. Norman, shorter attention span, perhaps a bit forgetful, and better able to endure jests of which I am the target. But, I am like her most in my love of the short story. I have found through the years that even on a short lunch hour or brief lulls in a hectic schedule will always allow time for a short story...Some you remember long, long after the first reading and some you reread again and again.

I am rather wordy and given to rhetoric, as my long suffering friends know, so I admire an author who can say it all in very few words and communicate character development and depth, with twists/ turns and irony of plot that surprise!

Thank you Mrs. Norman for introducing us to Washington Irving, and the short story!

Love you, Roleta and Judy!



MEMORIES OF SEGREGATION IN CLARKSBURG

submitted by: Rebecca Lynn Smith Hunn (WI '69)

In the July newsletter Sherry Ellen Hutchinson Keith comments on Kelly Miller saying it closed in 1957. She goes on to say she was in junior high school and the politics escaped her. It brought to mind this story that I tell from time to time because I think it says so much about Clarksburg and West Virginia in general. In December of 1972, I was a senior in college and I was home for Christmas. I was watching the network evening news and my dad was in his recliner reading the paper. There was yet another story about desegregation (don't remember where) with angry parents throwing rocks and shouting at school buses. It occurred to me that I didn't know when the Harrison County schools had been desegregated, so I asked my dad if he remembered. He looked around his paper, thought a minute, and said "the year you started first grade". "But" I said, "I don't remember anything happening!" He said "nothing happened" with an implied "why the heck would it?" in his voice. I know it's naive to think that's all there was to it. I know that Kelly Miller was a very good school and, in many ways, closing it was a loss to the community. But I will always be proud that I went to first grade at Towers the very first year that the schools were desegregated and I was a senior in college before I knew it! That, in itself, speaks volumes about Clarksburg.



Hi-Y

Were you in Hi-Y when you were in high school? What did HiY stand for? How were the boys chosen who belonged? Who chose them? What did they do? What activities were they involved in? Was there a formal initiation? Does this group still exist? Tell us all about this.

Write Roleta1@aol.com



JIM FRAGALE

submitted by: Jim Fragale (WI '58)

I was in the New York Daily News this morning and I'm passing that on to you. New York Daily News, Page 28, Sunday, June 24, 2012, a column called "Gatecrasher" by Frank Digiacomo:

"Jim Fragale is a multimedia multi-tasker. Amazon.com has begun selling "Oil and Coal," the album the N.Y.er co-write with Joe Lutton and produced. He's also building an avid fan base on Huffington Post with his pithy "Books You Hold in Your Hand" column about favorite reads."

Warm wishes to you, Roleta, Jim Fragale here - jamesafragale@yahoo.com.

p.s. The CD "Oil and Coal" is still available on CDBABY.com for the young at heart. Young people seem to prefer CDBABY.com. Link: www.cdbaby.com/cd/joelutton. Title "Oil and Coal." $ 14.95.

Pictured below is Jim Fragale





ADDRESS

CHANGE OF ADDRESS:

Steve Beatty (WI '73) stephanbeatty10267@comcast.net
John R Snider (WI '69) johnrinc@yahoo.com


NEW READERS:

Joseph Caruso (WI '64) Dcc510@msn.com or
Jac525@live.com
Paula White Brown (WI '54) brown_504@hotmail.com
Bonnie Burkhammer Coleman (WI '64) mamaram3@frontier.com
Mayf Nutter (Bridgeport HS '59) mayfnutter@att.net
You might remember Mayf as WBOY TV, host of BOY-LAND BANDSTAND, radio deejay at WBOY too. He has lived in California since 1965. Show Biz web page: www.MayfNutter.com



To Bill:

May Coach Stewart rest in peace. He was a loyal Mountaineer. Ed Pastilong made the mistake of promoting him "above his head". And, then, Oliver Luck did something you never do, by placing the new coach under the old coach (who doesn't want to give up his job in the first place.) Stewart then showed he was human by making a blunder himself. We can all forgive Pastilong, Stewart and Luck.

Lyle Corder, RW 1957

Reply To Lyle:

I think most of us agree with your thoughts. In last month's newsletter, I said that WVU had handled "it" right. I hope everyone understood that "it" referred to the events after Coach Stewart's passing. I thought they were well done and did honor to his memory. It's too bad the coaching transition didn't go as smoothly.

Bill (billmere@aol.com)



COLLEGE FOOTBALL 2012

The start of the college football season is only a month away. I can hardly wait. A new season, a new conference and an explosive offense combine to make this season probably the most anticipated ever for WVU football.

I asked a few of our readers to comment on what the move to the Big 12 Conference will mean for the Mountaineers. Thanks to those who responded. Following are their thoughts.


Bill,

The biggest negative about the move, in my opinion, is going to be the following of the teams, not just football, but all sports. WV fans are loyal, but not 'flushed' with money. The rise in ticket prices will hurt our "home game" fans as well. As far as the programs, all programs will benefit for this reason, tougher competition brings out the best in any "athlete". Now, it's play better or "get out of the water". I think that it was good news financially for the WV Programs. They will make much more money from the new league if they control their expenses. As for the new defense, I was not a great believer in the 3-3-5, so if they can get some good defensive minds, they can win. If you can't score on me ~ you can't beat me.

Bob Dennison W I 1957


Bill,

I believe the move was not only brilliant, but necessary for our survival. We will make a quarter of a billion more in the next 10 years. We need to spend more money on our baseball program. OK State, Texas, Oklahoma are no joke in baseball. Our football program will be top notch now that Holgerson is in a solid conference, and Huggs already has familiarity with the Big 12 and held his own this year with Baylor and Kansas State. The University can up the ante from their lucrative revenues to bolster Holgy and Huggies and Mike Carey's salaries to be competitive with the rest of the major conference coaches.

We need a way to get 6,000 at girl's basketball games. We need better promo in this area, especially when you're knocking off a team like #2 Notre Dame in their house. lt's gonna be fun. Our coaches know the Big 12.

By the way, Bill, I'm very impressed with your athletic knowledge and insight. Keep it up. Your column is always an interesting part of the fabulous monthly newsletter.

Bob Secret, W I 1960


Bill,

I have been reading some sports articles and it seems most are predicting the Mountaineers 3rd in the Big 12 behind Oklahoma and Texas and around 12th nationally. I agree with the national ranking but maybe 4th just behind Oklahoma State in the Big 12. I hope I am wrong but jumping into a conference like the Big 12 with some pretty big names may be a little intimidating. After a year or two with a couple good record seasons and some good recruiting, I think they will be competing for championship play, conference and nationally. I would love to see the Mountaineers knock the lights out in the Big 12 and compete in the playoffs within a couple years, hopefully sooner.

Now, these predictions are coming from someone who has never sat in Caesar's Palace Sports Booking section. However, I can see the board from the blackjack tables. Does that count??

Can't wait for the 2012 and 2013 schedule.

GO MOUNTAINEERS

Jim Alvaro, WI 1956
Bill, really enjoy the sport section in the WI Newsletter. Great job.


Bill,

I am not sure whether my enthusiasm for the move to the Big XII stems from the challenge of a new affiliation or my relief to get rid of the shackles of the Big Least. Being an old fogy, I still remember my heartache when the ACC was formed and we were screwed out of a deserving membership. But with that said, everything WVU has accomplished over the past 50 years would have been entirely different with a different set of coaches and players. So who knows---maybe THE SHADOW.

I believe that the move to the Big XII was a sound decision. Hooray for Ollie!
The football program will improve further. Basketball will not be challenged any greater than participating in the Big Least. I see our recruiting of 3 and 4 star players improving in both sports. We should be able to move into the Midwest thru Ohio, Indiana and Illinois even if it is Big Ten territory. In BB, maybe some big men and solid jump shooters. Women's Basketball should continue to be successful. Baseball will be a big hurdle. We can't change the fact that we are a "northern school" and the weather will always be a problem. A spanking brand-new stadium will help but we will probably be middle of the pack. The other sports will do OK but not spectacular. The entire WVU sports program will greatly benefit from increased dollars and TV exposure.

Focusing on the upcoming season, I cannot wait until Sept 1st and Marshall. I was in attendance in 1997 at the 1st game of the renewal. Although we all got excited about the Clemson victory— especially me since I live in South Carolina, I have not forgotten the Syracuse debacle and our give-away game against Louisville last year.

Can we play for the National Championship?? Who knows how the chips will fall. Offensively we can be unstoppable. I feel good about our new Defensive coaches. I was never a fan of our "bend but not break" tactics.

Being a FANatic---Few wins for Arizona! Never, never forget—"Under the arm Pitt !!" I see a Mountaineer football record of 10-2, at least.

Don Sager, W I 1956 (WVU 1964)



THE LAST WORD:

Thanks again for the great comments and for the kind words.

Now, let's have some fun. Don was specific about how he thinks the Mountaineers will do this year, 10-2. Jim thinks a 4th place finish in the Big 12 might be about right. How about the rest of you? Please tell me what you think the final regular season record will be for WVU and on what you base your prediction. I wonder if Pat Elder will still be positive and predict an undefeated season. Remember, Oklahoma, Texas and the rest of the Big 12 are usually far superior to the likes of Rutgers, Cincinnati, Syracuse and the balance of the Big East, so don't be too disappointed if there are some losses.

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



"TIMBUCK"

Remembering Timbuck: Praises of Long-Time Coach, Educator Sung by those Who Knew Him Best

"Story by Jeff Toquinto" and "Courtesy of Connect-Bridgeport." May 29, 2012

Printed here with permission from Jeff Toquinto (who is married to a 1986 WI grad) and he lives in Bridgeport.—checkout his blog…

For Bobby Secret, it was a day of emotions that swung from the highest of joys to the lowest of sadness. Last night, after 10 p.m. at Bridgeport's United Hospital Center, Secret once again became a grandfather as his daughter gave birth to a healthy child. Earlier in the morning his uncle, friend and even opposing coach – Robert "Timbuck" Shields – passed away.

Late Monday evening, after everything was getting back to a semblance of order with the birth of his grandchild, Secret spoke with high praise of someone he has the highest level of respect for. Not only was Timbuck Shields an uncle, he was also the best man in Secret's wedding and was the godfather to his oldest daughter Tara. In the simplest of terms, he was among Secret's most trusted friends.

The last few weeks, with his uncle's health fading, were difficult. The last few days, knowing that the end was near, were more of an emotional burden on Secret and others that were kin and a friend to Timbuck Shields.

"He was such a fighter, and even was up until the end. When Pittsburgh (hospital) game up on him, he didn't know if he would make it home, but I knew he would stick it out until (Bridgeport High School coach and Timbuck's son) Robert won the regional. He had to tell his dad everything and then it was okay to go," Secret said. " … The family has asked me to speak at the service and I don't know if I can because he was a legend. You can't explain a legend in two or three minutes."

Secret also recalls the stories of Timbuck's athletic prowess. Shields played football courtesy of a scholarship at West Virginia University on both sides of the ball, according to Secret, and he also played baseball. It was in baseball where he was most impressive. His ability on the diamond allowed him to sign with the Globe-Miami professional baseball team in the Class C Arizona-Texas League. The league was an affiliate of the current Baltimore Orioles club, which was the St. Louis Browns at the time.

According to the Web site www.baseball-reference.com/minors/, Shields was on the roster of the 1949 Globe-Miami Browns. He was listed with the pitchers, but no pitching stats were available on the site. He played in 10 games and hit .333 (5-for-15) and one of his teammates was Don Larsen. Also listed on the site was that in 1950, Shields was with the North Wilkesboro Flashes of the Class D Blue Ridge League. In 18 games he hit .214 (12-for-56) with two doubles and a triple. It was playing baseball that Shields earned the nickname that everyone came to know him by. After blasting a home run, his obituary (listed below) says a family member stated that the ball "probably landed in Timbuktu."

While his ability was impressive as a player, it would be as a coach and an educator where he would make his mark. For Secret, who was also one of the finest athletes in Harrison County's history, he had the unique situation of coaching for years against Shields. During Bobby Secret's time as coach of the Clarksburg Post 13 American Legion squad, Shields was coaching the rival Bridgeport Post 68 teams.

"It was such a tremendous thrill and challenge to coach against him. It got to the point where he knew everything I was going to do and I knew everything he was going to do, which was natural since I learned so much from him," said Secret. Secret said he and Shields considered merging the two Legion teams into one dominant group, but it never happened. He said it would have been great to have been a part of that effort and coach with his uncle and mentor.

"To this day, I don't know if there was ever an individual that had a knack for spotting the best talent on a team quicker than Timbuck, but there was more to the man than just baseball," said Secret. "He was resilient, and brash, but thrifty and responsible. He made sure things got done. He was a good Christian man who put God first, family next and others third."

Like others, though, Secret will fondly remember Timbuck Shields for involving himself with the sport of baseball and working with hundreds, if not thousands, of youngsters. During his time with kids, as well as with his time with Secret, he always dropped knowledge about life in general and sports in particular.

"He was a wise man. He told me when I was 12, that don't ever tell people you are a good athlete because when you have to tell someone that, you're not there yet," said Secret. "When you don't have to say anything and others tell you what a great athlete you are, then you're there. The idea was to let your athletic ability speak for itself.

"He's a great man," Secret continued. "Myself and so many others are going to miss him."

"Timbuck was the principal and it was my first game officiating. I can still remember Robert was the ball boy and he'd bring the team out on the floor," said Iquinto. "Timbuck came out that first game and told me that you have to smile a little bit when you call a foul. He always had a word of advice whenever we talked, and it was usually about athletics and usually the athletic were revolving around him. I can assure you from athletics and so many other standpoints, he's going to be missed."

Iquinto, who has spent roughly five decades coaching from youth leagues until this year, also feels for the situation Timbuck's son and BHS baseball coach Robert Shields is doing through. Not only does the younger Shields have to deal with the passing of his father and a Thursday funeral, he also has to coach in the state baseball tournament later that same day in Charleston.

"Thursday is going to be a sad day and a difficult day for Robert. I know in 1986 my dad passed away right before we went to the state tournament when I was coaching Lincoln and it was difficult," said Iquinto. "I know what Robert's going through and how tough it's going to be. If you've followed those two, you know that Timbuck was as big a part of Robert's life as Robert was to his. It's that way with him and all of his children."



MY MEMORIES LISTED

submitted by: Erik Fredricksen (formerly Fred Miller) (WI '61)
hannis@umich.edu

Great job as always on the newsletter!

So many, and edit as you wish--I stopped after 3 minutes and no order at all:

--Andy's Hotdogs on Pike Street 15 cents
--Ellis Drive-in
--gas at 20 cents a gallon
--Coach Moore, Ms. Bauld/Latin Club, and Ms. Swiger (who gave me alternative to coal mine)
--"Street baseball" and J. Matheny, B. Courtney, D. Aspy, F. Lawman, and S. Toryak
--French class and Ms. Tienebrun (sp)
--chess
--The "Wonderful 3" favorite gals, Sherry, 'Fifi', and Clara
--hitch hiking w. B. Seckman
--Luther League Camp and...'Tanya'
--first year dorm Fairmont State (sorry John T. for the prank...)
--ice deliveries and coal deliveries
--Benedum Airport and cutting with scythe all day all summer
--so many fond memories and I must stop for your sake.

EDITOR'S NOTE: I invite you to send in a list of your favorite memories or comment on some of Erik's……write to: Roleta1@aol.com



CONGRATULATIONS



Goff Receives Individual Artist Grant from the WV Commission on the Arts.

Harrison County comedian, actor, writer and creativity instructor, Steve Goff has been awarded a 2012 Individual Artist Professional Development Grant for his work in developing a series of creativity workshops, utilizing the techniques and skills of improvisational comedy. Since May of 2011, over 200 people have taken at least one of Goff's "Improve With Improv" workshops. The workshops were featured at the WV Writers 2011 Conference and were also held in Morgantown, Clarksburg, Bridgeport and Fairmont.

Goff will use the grant monies to return to the Second City Training Center in Chicago for a second year of study. In 2011 he took course work in Improvisation, and this year he will be in the Comedy Writing sequence.

This grant is presented by the West Virginia Commission on the Arts with financial assistance from the West Virginia Division of Culture and History, and the National Endowment on the Arts.See More



submitted by: Judy Aspy Payne (WI '59)

In the June Newsletter picture of all the different people sitting out in the sun together.....The little girl who is sitting with Jayne Rose is her little sister, Chrissie....



submitted by: Jim White (WI '72)

That's the Holy Rosary Catholic Church on east Pike Street. It has been closed since I believe the mid-80's. It is located across from Florence St, where I grew up.

The priest had a VW Kharmin Ghia, which all the local kids thought was the coolest car in the world (early 60's when we were 8 years old).



submitted by: Dorothy Ann Hughes Shaffer (WI '52)
cshaffer@pathwaynet.com

I just had an email from Katie (Custer) forwarding the Newsletter. I appreciate this but I have had no problem receiving the Newsletter! I pour over it each month and am amazed at the fantastic job you guys do on it!

I had particularly appreciated this last one with Joe Malone's copy of our '52 Class reunion picture with all the people identified. That was such a fun reunion and it is even better now with all the folks "labeled." If it ever worked for me I would surely try to hit the Saratoga Reunion but FL is generally not mapped into our travel plans.

Thanks again for all the amazing work you do to keep a multitude of people feeling we are still connected!

You are a Blessing!



submitted by: Charles Ferrell (WI '46)

Thanks for the photo of the WI class of 1952. I knew a few of these students who lived in Stealey and Hartland. At our final WVU Wesley Foundation reunion at Morgantown last week, Joe Haugh showed me a copy of the same picture that he must have taken at the reunion. Marian Reep lived a street below Hartland Ave and Joanne Westfall's brother, Zeb and I were in scouts and the same WI class. One of our Wesley Foundation members, Tom Bartlet, was a general in The U S Army Chemical Corp after I left the Edgewood, MD facility in 1952 as one of 1,000 PFC soldier scientists there. He is currently the mayor of Grafton, WV.

Our youngest son, Jeff, passed away in March of this year from a heart attack. He had a stroke, brain surgery and was partially paralyzed and had recovered somewhat when he was released from rehab, He had done decades of photography of sailing vessels on the Chesapeake Bay and volunteering with the Bay Foundation. Some of his work is in museums. He had a web site showing some of his work but I do not know if it is still available. He was one of eight Eagle Scouts on our street.

I have about finished 17 years work on my military research activities on nuclear weapons effects during the Korean Conflict period. One of the reports has been declassified and is summarized in the book. I have been scouting around for a publishing company.

I really enjoy reading your monthly newsletter.



submitted by: Carolyn Hinzman Ramsay (Weston High '52)

Although we moved away and I graduated from Weston High School in 1952, my memories of that class go back to 4th grade at Morgan Elem. in Stealey. Carolyn Reynolds, Billie Anne Cork, Joanne Westfall, Catherine Custer, Shirley Stotler and Miriam Reep were there. Then we moved back to Weston when my dad was drafted into the Navy. We moved back to Stealey following the war. Nichy Bisping had moved to town, and we all belonged to the Girl Scout troop at Stealey Methodist Church. I attended Central Jr. High then beginning of 9th grade at WI. Soon we moved again, so I also remember Ann Ralston, Ann Brannon, Marian Spelsberg, Mary Ann Hite, Joe Malone and Frank Gemma.

That is about all I can offer other than to tell you how much I enjoy each issue of the newsletter....it brings back many memories.



MEETING WEST VIRGINIA FOLKS ON YOUR TRAVELS

submitted by: Tom Keenan (WI '49)

Like a lot of my friends, I entered the Service (USAF) shortly after graduating from college. And like a lot of others, found a job in another State afterwards. However, I always returned in the Summer to visit, having only missed one year from 1953, and to attend our Reunions. Therefore, I seldom had the opportunity to see and meet with many of my local friends. However, I have a good memory for faces and luckily had several jobs that required travel. On those trips, I did meet some folks from Clarksburg in odd places. I had three occurrences that I met people I knew away from WV.

The first was at the Officer's Club on Wolmido Island, Inchon, Korea. I was serving at Kimpo AB and had the opportunity to get off base for dinner. The person I saw there was not a person that I only knew by face and name as he had gone to St. Mary's and that was Mickey Ransome. He was a very popular guy as I remember. We had a few words and we never saw each other again.

The second occurrence was in Milwaukee, WI. There I was in a store and an individual came by and I noticed how he walked. My first thought was, I had seen that walk before and it was in Broad Oaks. I approached the individual and it was Tommy Progler, WI Class of ‘50, as I had suspected. He was working for Allis-Chambers at that time. I learned later that he had, unfortunately, died very young.

In the third case, I was at the Cleveland Airport and I saw one of the Wanstreet Twins from St. Mary's, Class of ‘46, I think. He was a Priest. Again a few words and gone. I saw his brother's obit in the local paper when I was living in Merritt Island, FL. He lived at Satellite Beach, about 15 miles away.

Recently, I had lunch with Greta Samuals Shipplett at Deltona, FL where she lives. Greta was the Salutatorian for the Class of ‘49 and it was good to see after so many years. During our lunch, we discussed our children and we found out that one of her daughters lives about three miles away from my son on Merritt Island, FL.

Sixty three years since we graduated, 900 miles away and we have children within that small a distance. I have had other occurrences of meeting with people I worked with over the years in odd places.

It is truly a small World.



NICKNAMES

EDITOR'S NOTE: Did any females ever have a nickname? Send them to Roleta1@ol.com

submitted by: John Teter (WI '61)

The only nicknames that I remember are as follows:

Bob "TEETS" Teter, WI 1960
Bob "SEEKS" Secret, WI 1960
Brooks "TRAINER" Gainer, WI 1961
Robert "HOPPY" Junkins, WI 1962 (I think)
Evan "Stumpie" Bice, WI class of 1962

It would also be interesting to know why TIMBUCK's brother gave him the nickname!



submitted by: Terry Snider Fazio (WI '67)

Nicknames--my husband has a couple--I can usually tell how someone knows him by what they call him. His name is John Fazio, a graduate of RW 62--we won't hold that against him (he is celebrating his 50th reunion this year). His family calls him Butch, most of his old time friends call him Fuzzy--this was what his father was called. Most of the people he has met later in life call him John. We celebrated our 40th wedding anniversary 6/24, and I have always called him John, which was what he introduced himself as when we met at the Carousel many years ago.



submitted by: Deb Yorgensen (formerly Caplinger, formerly Queen) (Parkersburg Catholic HS in 1969)

RE: Arreta Radcliffe Jaranko

In her July article about nicknames, she mentioned her brother Carris, who was a fraternity brother of Don Knotts. I think this means that my dad, Charlie Tuttle (from Parkersburg), was also her brother's fraternity brother at WVU, as my dad was a Phi Delt, as was Don Knotts. It is a really small world :) I remember looking through his Monticola yearbooks many, many times - wish I still had them.



BAND FESTIVAL

submitted by: Katie Custer Burke (WI '52)
katiecbur@frontier.com

This spring brought back memories of the Band Festival. Each spring hundreds of band members from schools throughout the region would descend on Clarksburg. It was a big deal. We were out of school for two days possibly because the bands used the schools to play for their ratings.

The climax was a huge parade in downtown Clarksburg with all the bands and floats. The band members were lodged in homes throughout Clarksburg for the two nights. Two girls stayed at our house and were given breakfast each morning. Can you imagine that today?

EDITOR'S NOTE: Did you attend a Band Festival? Please share your memories with us. Just write to: Roleta1@ol.com



2011 SCHOLARSHIP WINNER CHECKS IN WITH YOU

submitted by: Bradley Ledsome (RC Byrd 2011)
bled555@hotmail.com

Hello,

I thought I would check in during this hot, humid weather and get you updated. I have been on summer break since near middle of May and been working close to 40 hours at Kroger and sometimes more. Of course I need to work for the money to pay for the bills and most importantly...college. Luckily I have been fortunate enough to get help with my first year of college and make it to this point. I will continue on my long journey still hoping to pursue a job in the medical field as a doctor, Oncologist to be exact. My heart is with the people that have suffered and still suffer today from cancer. I still hope to one day find the cure to this horrific illness. I will be attending FSU again next fall with a major in Chemistry and minor in Psychology.

EDITOR'S NOTE: If you are interested in writing Bradley, please use his email address as listed. I am sure he would like to hear from any reader of the newsletter. If you are interested in his career choice or have words of encouragement for him I am sure he would like to hear from you.



NAME THESE YOUNG BOYS
1955 ball team

There were no guesses to their identification so we will give you the names.




submitted by: John Teter (WI '61)

Back row (left to right): Butch Berger, JIM PRATT, Bobby Comer, HOPPY JUNKINS, PAT KELLY, CLARENCE GROSS, Jr. Mic
Middle row (left to right): CARL SMITH, Dick Overmeyer, JEFF GEORGE
Front row (left to right): PAUL DILLMORE, George Reeves, LOUIS MARTINO, JOHN TETER

The names are JOHN'S GUESSES as to who the players are. The names listed in ALL CAPS, he is POSITIVE about.



CAREER CHOICE AND WHY?

submitted by: Nancy Van Horn Stunger (WI '54)

I knew from first grade, that I would be a nurse. I had two aunts who were nurses from St Mary's Nursing school in Clarksburg, W.V. One served with Dr. Fred Fishers outfit that left in World War II. The day I graduated from WI High School I walked to the Nursing school and signed up. I graduated Nsg. 1957. I have been a Pediatric nurse for 20 years. I really believe it was my Lord's will that I became a nurse. My daily prayer has been Help me help someone today.

EDITOR'S NOTE: What is your career and why did you select it? Write to Roleta1@ol.com. Thank you.



INTERESTING INFORMATION
AND IT IS FREE!

submitted by: Dave Kuhl (WI '62)

Here is an interesting, free, useful source for information on Clarksburg, WI, Kelley Miller, Shinnston, Unidis, WVU, etc.

http://distantcousin.com/States/WV.html

Some of the gems include:

1923 Clarksburg City Directory. It lists names in alphabetical order including residence, family relation, occupation, etc.

1921, Washington Irving High School class of, lists names of 153 names. The only name that I recognized was Aliene LaDue. He was a friend of my parents and lived at Maple Lake in later years. The list was copied from the yearbook.

1955, Kelley Miller school class of lists 10 names.

Other local schools include Unidis and Shinnston.

If you have similar resources, this is good site for sharing them.



A GREAT STORY ABOUT THE HOSPITALITY OF OUR HOME STATE

submitted by: Carolyn Dennison (WI '57)

SATURDAY DIARY / THANK YOU, WEST-BY-GOD-VIRGINIA
JULY 8, 2012 11:06 AM

BY KAREN KANE / PITTSBURGH POST-GAZETTE
"You're in West-by-God-Virginia," said the shirtless man in the car idling in the parking lot of a darkened Exxon station at the crossroads of Routes 19 and 16 in the tiny town of Fayetteville, W. Va.

He had overheard me on my cell phone talking to the city desk of the Post-Gazette, the first place I turned to for information when it finally hit me that something was seriously wrong in this neck of mountainous woods. "I'm in a tiny town in Virginia," I was telling my colleague.

In reality, I had crossed the border into West-by-God-Virginia a while back on my journey home from Hilton Head with a van-full of females ranging in age from 13 to 84. But I was flustered by the gas gauge reading "E" and the unanticipated closure of this gasoline station, so I had misspoken. This gentleman with the big smile and the gentle twang was making sure I knew just where I stood -- which happened to be 233 miles south of home.

I had departed my beach vacation at 4 a.m. that day. A few hours into the trip, we stopped for breakfast at a Swansea, S.C., cafe specializing in fatback and side meat. I took notice of a local paper but passed, figuring the news would be old by the time I got around to reading it.

So I was flying blind, not knowing that severe storms the night before had wiped out electric service from Virginia and Maryland through West Virginia and D.C., all the way to the southern counties of Pennsylvania. As my colleague at the PG told me, fixing things could take up to a week.

I had gassed up in friendly Swansea and was planning to stop next when I hit the noninterstate part of my journey between I-77 and I-79. It's a stretch of Route 19 around Beckley known to me until Saturday, June 30, 2012, only as a potential speed trap for drivers reluctant to downshift to legal limits. I knew this from personal experience, having been stopped thereabouts a few years back on my way home from Atlanta. When we hit 19, I hadn't given much thought to seeing a gasoline station with vehicles lined up along the roadway, waiting to fill up. Traffic on 77 had been a nightmare. We had moved at speeds lower that 25 mph for so long that my GPS showed my ETA gaining 90 minutes. I figured lots of people had decided at the same time to gas up after getting off the Interstate parking lot. But when I saw a second station miles and miles away with similar lines, I started wondering. That's when I checked my gauge closely and saw that I had a little less than an eighth of a tank of gas.

I got off the highway at the next spot I could and landed at this Exxon station where plastic bags were covering the handles of the pumps and the interior of the building was dark.

I flagged down a sheriff's deputy who told me I was in the midst of a declared emergency. He said there was one open filling station a few miles away using a generator to keep the gasoline flowing but I was certain that my tank would run dry before I made it there.

It was 90 degrees in the shade; our food supplies consisted of some PopTarts and peaches I had bought from a roadside stand. Local water and phone service were shut down; no hotels or restaurants were open; and only one food store in a two-county area was doing business and was likely to shut down soon, the deputy had said.

I was stewing over my predicament with my sunburned legs sizzling in the heat when I noticed a man standing outside a van with an Ontario license plate. His side doors were open, revealing a wife and three kids inside. He was holding a flushed infant. "Are you stranded, too?" I asked. A somber nod of the head. "We're on our way to Orlando." I was pacing the pavement, trying to make arrangements with my husband to transport filled gas cans from home when along came Marty.

"Y'all OK out here?" he said from his open car window.

"I've been better," I said. I told him I and my new friend Jon from Ontario were about out of essentials but had ample supplies of worry. He pointed to a red-roofed house standing above the Exxon station -- the home of his parents, the mayor of tiny Fayetteville and his wife.

"I don't know what we can do but y'all can sit on the porch and have a cold drink while we think about it," Marty said.

When we all arrived at the house on the hill, we found Mrs. Mayor and Marty's wife handing out bottles of water so cold there were beads of condensation forming by the second. Mr. Mayor was grilling burgers. They were setting up chairs for us and for another couple from Pittsburgh who had found themselves in similar straits.

After a minute or two of chatting about our situations, Mr. Mayor directed his lovely white-haired wife to flip the burgers. The similarly snow-capped mayor disappeared, returning with a red gas can.

"I filled this up yesterday so I could mow the grass," he said, adding that he would divide the liquid gold among us. It would be enough to keep our engines running while we waited in the long lines of the Shell station that was operating on a generator a few miles away.

As we followed Marty on the back roads to the Shell, we passed more than a dozen overturned trees with root balls exceeding 4 feet in diameter and more broken branches than we could count. The power of Nature was evident. She had toyed with our urban trappings -- traffic signals, water plants, electrical lines -- like a toddler bored with her playthings. She had reminded us with her hot breath who was in charge.

But, the people of West-by-God-Virginia trumped Nature's whims. She could have her way with her wind and her hail but they would have their say, too. And what they had to say was "Sit down and have a cool drink and let us help you find your way home." West-by-God-Virginia?

I say West-thank-God-Virginia-and-her-fine-citizens.

Karen Kane is a staff writer for the Post-Gazette
(http://us.mc1623.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=kkane%40post-gazette.com, 724- 772-9180).

First Published July 7, 2012 12:00 am



MYSTERY PICTURE

submitted by: Margaret (Cleavenger) McIntyre (WI '65)

Thank you for another "GREAT" newsletter.

The mystery photo for the August issue is the Oak Hall Cafeteria. Having worked at C and P Telephone Co., close by, I spent many a lunch hour there. Not only was there a wide selection to choose from but the food was very good. I remember standing in line wondering if I would get my food and get back within my lunch hour. Because the food was sooo good for a while it was "the" place to have lunch. Upstairs from the cafeteria and the adjacent buildings there were very nice apartments. A neighbor from my early childhood, Mrs. Clark, lived there and I always enjoyed visiting with her. Of course, we would always go down to eat.

Thank you to you and your team for this GREAT newsletter. Having left Clarksburg many years ago I always enjoy reading about my hometown and reminiscing while reading articles from people I may not know but with whom we all have a common link.



submitted by: Rodd Kidd (WI '70)

Not sure, but could this be the restaurant that was across from the Empire Bank Bldg. on Main St. I can't remember the name of it, but it later became Oak Hall Cafeteria.



submitted by: Tim Cork (WI '62)
tpcork@bellsouth.com

EDITOR'S NOTE: Here at the newsletter, we miss Fred Layman (VHS 1946) who passed away a few months ago as he was my "go to man" about certain things. I have asked Tim Cork (WI 1962) if he will help me out from time to time with some answers. Tim knows how to research and find pictures that will help us make the newsletter more interesting. Thank you Tim for the effort you put forth to find and supply us with pictures of the Mystery Subject for July.

The pictures below are from Tim:

1. The first attachment was taken form a 1963 phone book. It gives the address for Anderson's as 407 West Main Street.



2. The second attachment is a picture of Google Earth...407 West Main Street in Clarksburg. (only a vacant lot now but it confirms the location of the former restaurant)



3. The third attachment is my picture of that location taken sometime in the 50's, but I was unable to make out the name of the restaurant until now. So when you told me it was Anderson's it was easy to come up with the picture which only gave me a location of West Main and Fifth Ave. Now I have the rest of the info about the third picture I have attached.. Thanks.



4. The fourth attachment is a zoomed-in picture of their sign. I can only make out the " 'S " in the word Anderson's that was at the very top of the sign.



5. The fifth attachment was taken from a 1968 telephone book. It gives the address for Oak Hall Cafeteria as 407 West Main Street. (same address as the old Anderson's)



Below is a picture that Judy had in her archive.





ANDERSON'S RESTAURANT

submitted by: Roleta Smith Meredith
Roleta1@aol.com

Hard to forget Anderson's Restaurant. I can even remember about the inside of it….And it was next to Selby's Pharmacy and Roger's ….Do you remember a man named Rufus?

What do you remember? Write to Roleta1@aol.com.



MYSTERY PICTURE FOR SEPTEMBER


picture submitted by: Tim Cork (WI '62)

Can you identify our mystery picture for September? Correct answers with a memory enclosed will be printed in the next newsletter. Write to Roleta1@aol.com and see if your guess is correct.



REUNION NEWS

submitted by: Diana Shablack Sandy (WI '69)

The classes of 1968, 1969, and 1970 are having a joint reunion August 10-11, 2012.

(Okay, for many of us, it will be an achy joint reunion.) You won't want to miss this event because we see each other so seldom.

Friday evening will offer heavy hors d'oeuvres, beer, coffee, and tea (or BYOB), at an informal reception. This will be a great chance to get re-acquainted with your former classmates. 6:30-11 p.m.

Saturday evening offers a sit-down banquet (coffee, and tea or BYOB) and music with our very own D.J., the "Wild Man of Clarksburg," Jerry Lutz. He'll play all the old songs we grew up with. Come and party with your old friends, and make some new old friends, because we're all old now! Let's celebrate our success at surviving thus far. 7-11 p.m.

Optional: If you are interested in playing golf at Pete Dye Saturday morning, contact Jerry Mick at jfmick@cox.net. You will be responsible for paying for your own green fees.

Register is now $60 per person. Your spouse, partner, or guest is welcome. Please register your spouse, partner, or guest separately. This will allow us to print name badges for everyone. It is acceptable to write one check to pay for two people.

If you have questions about the event, please contact Donna Stanley Meredith at 850- 878-2931 or meredithds@comcast.net or Gerald Workman at 304-669-9902 or rgw1968@yahoo.com.

We look forward to seeing you at the reunion.
Donna Stanley Meredith (WI 1969)



OBITUARIES

DOROTHA PEARL GLADDEN

Dorotha Pearl Gladden, age 82, passed away on June 29, 2012, at the United Hospital Center in Bridgeport, W.Va.

She was a daughter of the late Raymond Franklin Frye and Lula Luella Morgan Frye.

Her beloved husband, Jewett Oliver "Buck" Gladden, preceded her in death April 18, 2012.

Surviving are two daughters, Tina Marie Daniels and LuAnn G. Kryshak; two sons, Buck O. Gladden and Gene Raymond "Duke" Gladden.; a brother, Fredrick L. Frye and several grandchildren, ad great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents and her husband, Dorotha was also preceded in death by sisters, Dora and Delores Ann Frye; and brothers, Donald and Richard Lee Frye.

Dorotha attended Bridgeport High School and the Stealey Assembly of God Church. She was employed at the Hazel-Atlas Glass Co., where she worked until 1959

She served as councilwoman for the town of Anmoore, W.Va., and coordinator in 1983. In 1989, she became mayor of Anmoore and to date is the only female to ever hold that office. During her term in office, one of her main focuses was making sure that the parks were maintained, clean and safe for the children of Anmoore. She had a special place in her heart for children. She designated a cleanup program for the town of Anmoore to clean up the streets and brought youth offenders in to help in an attempt to give them back their self-worth. She was the founder of Central West Virginia G.T.S.B., a member of the F.O.P. Ladies Auxiliary and a lifetime member of W.Va. ABATE



CHARLOTTE JONES, PH.D.

CORTLAND - Charlotte Nuzum Jones, Ph.D., 79, (WI 1950) passed away May 1, 2012, at Briarfield at the Ridge following a lengthy illness.

Charlotte was born June 14, 1932, in Charleston, W.Va., the daughter of Karl J. and Louise Schroeder Nuzum.

Charlotte had a long-time career, from 1956 to 1993, in nursing education at various universities including the University of Cincinnati, Arizona State University, University of Pittsburgh and Duquesne University, from which she retired as an associate professor. She co-authored a maternal-child nursing textbook while living in Arizona.

Charlotte received her Ph.D. in higher education from the University of Pittsburgh in 1979. She belonged to several professional and social organizations including Sigma Theta Tau (International Nursing Honorary), Pi Lambda (Education Honorary), Kappa Happa Gamma and the Order of the Eastern Star, Homestead Chapter 139, serving as Worthy Matron twice. As a life time Episcopalian, she sang in the church choirs in Scottsdale, Ariz, Mount Lebanon, Pa., and Warren.

Charlotte was previously married to Anthony L. Cooper from 1976 until his death in 1995. She married John J. Jones Jr. in January 1999, moving from Pittsburgh to Girard.

Her interests outside of her profession included horseback riding, skiing and music.

Charlotte is survived by her husband; a sister, Phyllis Phillips of Goleta, Calif.; a stepson, Anthony L. Cooper II of Denver; a stepdaughter, Myla C. (Carl) Korn of Ellicott City, Md.; four step-grandchildren, Jason and Lee Cooper and Sarah and Kevin Korn. She also leaves her dog, Chocolate.

She was predeceased by her sister, Nancy Leatherman.

Excerpts from the Warren, Ohio news.



DELORES ANN GREIGS BAKER

Delores Ann Barker, 73, passed away June 23, 2012, at United Hospital Center with family by her side.

She was born in Clarksburg, daughter of the late John and Edith Brown Gregis.

Delores graduated from Victory High School and was a homemaker. She is survived by her husband, Joseph Samuel Barker, of 34 years; six children, Eugene Carr, Flemington, Ricky Allen Carr and wife Lisa, Bridgeport, Kevin W. Carr and wife Joni, West Milford, James W. Barker and John A. Barker both of Waldorf, MD and Joseph D. Barker of Indian Head, MD; 11 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; two brothers, Frank Gregis, Bridgeport, and Larry Gregis and wife Cathy, Jane Lew; and sister-in-law, Barbara Gregis, Canal Fulton, OH.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two brothers, LeRoy and Junior Gregis.

Delores loved boating, fishing and spending time at the campsite at Walkersville near Stonewall Jackson Lake. She was given the title of "Best Cook this side of the Mississippi."



CHARLES RONALD ALLMAN "RON" SANDY

Charles Ronald Allman "Ron" Sandy, 74, of Clarksburg (Adamston), WV, passed away peacefully with his family by his side June 21, 2012.

Ron was the son of the late Charles Willard and Helen Beatrice Sterling Sandy. His wife, Carole L. Taufer Sandy of Williamstown, WV, survives.

Also surviving are son, Charles Ronald and wife Tina; son, Michael and wife Jennifer; son, Sean and wife Christine; and daughter, Amy Callahan and husband, Eric.

He is also survived by his 10 grandchildren; and one great-granddaughter, Ally.

He was a member of Christ Church United Methodist in Adamston.

Ron retired from the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection after 25 years and had served in the U.S. Air Force.

He was a former member of Masonic Lodge 129, A.F.andA.M., Williamstown; 32nd Degree Parkersburg Lodge A.F.andA.M.; AOEMES Shriner Nemesis Temple, Parkersburg; and Shriner Drum and Bugle Corps, Parkersburg. He was a former member of the Williamstown Lions Club.

Ron graduated from Victory High School in Clarksburg, Class of 1955, and attended Salem College and WVU Parkersburg, majoring in biology and environmental science.



JAMES GARRISON

April 12, 2012
The Intelligencer / Wheeling News-Register

GARRISON, James Wright, DPM, 81, of Wheeling, died on Sunday, April 8, 2012 in the Wheeling Hospital, Wheeling.

He was born August 11, 1930 in Clarksburg, WV, the son of the late James E. and Beulah Wright Garrison and was a member of Vineyard Church, Wheeling.

Jim was a retired Doctor of Podiatric Medicine having owned his own practice in Wheeling for 34 years. He was a graduate of WVU and the Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine in Cleveland, OH. He was a past member of the APA; a past Fellow in the American Academy of Sports Medicine; a life member of the NRA and an avid marksman, fisherman and hunter. He also was a Navy Veteran of the Korean War.

After his retirement, he spent many years serving others. He touched many lives by praying in intercessory prayer groups, volunteering with Pastoral Care at Wheeling Hospital and by traveling to South Korea on a medical mission to treat the severely handicapped in an orphanage. His generous heart touched many over the years.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Dorothy Jean Lougue.

Surviving are his loving wife of 59 years, Sue Jeffries Garrison; two daughters, Brenda Jean Straub and her husband, Randy of Alta Loma, CA and Mindy Sue Smith of Wheeling; four grandchildren, Melissa Adams and her husband, Jim, James W. "Jimmy" Smith, Brenda Jacquelyn "B.J." Smith and Taylor James Straub and a great-grandchild, Gretchen Elizabeth "Libby " Adams.



RONALD WADE TURNER

Ronald Wade Turner passed away July 1, 2012, at the Clarksburg Nursing and Rehab Center, where he has been a resident since May 5, 2011.

He was the son of the late Hartsel L. and Lois Pratt Turner of Clarksburg.

He has been a resident of the Lake Floyd community since 1956 and been married for 57 years to Jean Atkinson Turner. Ron was 80 years old.

He is survived by four children, Janette Turner Sparks (James R.) of Culloden, WV, Steven R. Turner (Marsha) of Lake Floyd, Robin Turner Grimshaw (Mathew) of Ashburn, VA, and Katherine A. Turner of Louisville, Co. There are eight grandchildren as follows: Tyler S. Turner of Clarksburg, Abigail Sparks McNevin (Anthony) of Falls Church, VA, Patricia G. Sparks of Fort Worth, TX, Kathryn R. Turner of Lake Floyd, Emma L. Turner of Lake Floyd, Reece Turner Grimshaw and Andrew Scott Grimshaw of Ashburn, VA, and Camisee Turner Cline of Louisville, Co.

Mr. Turner is also survived by his twin sister, Reta Turner Blackhurst of Hendersonville, NC, and a brother-in-law and his wife, James H. and KayAtkinson of Bridgeport. There are several nieces and nephews.

Ron graduated in 1950 from Washington Irving High School and from West Virginia University in 1954 with a B.S. in Business and Economics. While attending WVU he was a member of the Sigma Chi Fraternity and was a proud Life Loyal Sig. Following the University he served two years in the United States Army; stationed in Fort Eustis, Va.

Ron returned to Clarksburg in 1956 to work in the family business; Hartland Planing Mill Co. He was proud to be the third generation in the company following his grandfather Frank S. Turner and his father Hartsel L. Turner. Ron served as President and CEO from 1980 until his retirement in 1999. The Turner family has been in the lumber business since 1912.

He was recently made an honorary member of the Rotary Club of Clarksburg. This award was for many years of service helping to run the District Youth Exchange program. He and Jean also volunteered with the District RYLA leadership program when it was created in 1987. They also opened their home to at least 13 exchange students from all over the world. Ron was a recipient of the highest award for Club and District service, The College of Governors Award, which he received in 1990.

Ron was a member of the Harrison County Bicycle Club and had been an avid bicycler. He also enjoyed hiking, camping, white water kayaking and crosscounty skiing. He and Jean and friends took many trips skiing in Europe and the western States.

Mr. Turner was an active member of the Salem United Methodist Church, Salem, WV. He worked to help the church move to its new location in the old Harden School. Ron served several years on boards for the United Hospital Center. He also served on the board of directors for the Lake Floyd Club and as president. Mr. Turner was a well-respected businessman, a civic supporter and a devoted family man.



ROBERT TIMBUCK SHIELDS

Robert Lee "Timbuck" Shields, age 84, of Bridgeport passed away Monday, May 28, 2012 at his residence surrounded by his family. He was born Dec. 4, 1927 in Clarksburg, a son of the late Russell Shields and Concetta Cava Shields. His wife, Constance Marie Ielapi Shields, whom he married June 2, 1956, preceded him in death June 8, 1993.

Surviving are his four children, Lynette Graeber and her husband Steven, Cynthia Shaw and her husband Mark, Robert Shields, and Michaela Chefren and her husband Michael, all of Bridgeport. Seven grandchildren, Fallon Gillum and her husband Chris, Meagan Lee and Steven Brent Graeber, Evan and Samantha Lee Shaw, Connie and Maxwell Chefren. Two great grandchildren, Paiton Gillum and Xavier Lee. One sister, Eleanor Alessi of Steubenville, Ohio, along with several nieces, nephews, and his companion, Dr. E. Joy Lynch.

In addition to his parents, and his wife, he was preceded in death by two brothers and two sisters, George "Duke" and Raymon Shields, Mary Shields Secret and Virginia Shields Lopez.

Timbuck, as he was fondly named by his brother, was a graduate of Washington Irving High School. He graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Secondary Education and a Master's Degree in Counseling from WVU, having received a football scholarship and having played baseball as well in 1945 and 1946. Timbuck ended his football at WVU when he signed with the pro baseball Globe- Miami club in the Class C Arizona-Texas League, affiliated with the St. Louis Browns (Baltimore Orioles).

Timbuck's entire professional career was at Flemington High School, having begun as a teacher and coach in 1953. Of his 18 years coaching basketball there, he carried an impressive record of 279 wins and 90 losses. More impressively, he mentored many wonderful teachers and coaches there. He became principal in 1967 having held that position until his retirement in 1991. He was the State of West Virginia Administrator of the Year recipient in 1984.

Timbuck was a member of the 1954 China Dolls, state softball champions. He touched many young lives in his professional career and coaching career. From 1987 to present, he was the manager of the Bridgeport American Legion Post 68. In 1990 his team competed for the American Legion World Series semifinals, having lost to the eventual champions from Mayo, Maryland. Of his many accomplishments, Timbuck was also proud to have the tennis and softball fields dedicated in his name by the Taylor County Board of Education, located at the Grafton High School Complex. The dedication took place on May 9, 2009.

He was a member of the Sons of Italy, the Columbian Club, and the All Saints Catholic Church. His love for baseball was only second to the love for his family, and his many close friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Timbuck's memory to the Timbuck Shields Legion Baseball Scholarship, Wes Banco Bank 1130 Johnson Avenue, Bridgeport, WV 26330. Memories of Timbuck along with expressions of sympathy may be extended to the family at www.amoscarvelli.comwww.amoscarvelli.com A Service of Amos Carvelli Funeral Home.



PETE AMODIO

1966 Victory grad and former teacher at WI (starting in 1972) and Liberty HS teacher from 1987 until the present.

Pete Amodio, age 63 of Miletus Community, passed away suddenly Saturday, July 21, 2012, at his residence.

He was born December 9, 1948, in Clarksburg, a son of the late Angelo Amodio and Alma Susan Helmick Amodio, who resides at Dawson Mines.

His wife, Barbara Ann Douglass Amodio, whom he married May 23, 1969, resides at their home in the Miletus Community.

Also surviving are his three children, Zachary Amodio and his wife Sara of Clarksburg, Chad Amodio of Salem, and Brooke Hipp and her husband Daniel of Rockville, MD; his grandchildren, Kyle, Grady and Brody Amodio; his sister, Margaret Nikpourfard and her husband Dariush of Frederick, MD; nieces and nephew, Pareesa Nikpourfard, Mason Douglass and Julie DeMino; along with great-nieces and nephews, Tyler, Kaitlyn and Jacob Douglass, Nicholas, Christiana and Toni DeMino; and, his beloved dog, Gia.

Pete was a graduate of Victory High School, Class of 1966, and Fairmont State University in 1970 with an B.A. in education. He went on to earn his Master's degree from Marshall University. He started his teaching career in 1972 at Washington Irving High School and taught from 1987 to present at Liberty High School. He coached youth sports throughout the years, including Little League, Babe Ruth, basketball and soccer.



ANNA MAE HEATER

Anna Mae Heater, age 91, of Clarksburg, passed away Thursday, June 28, 2012, following an extended illness. She was born August 4, 1920, in Jeannette, Pennsylvania, a daughter of the late Harry William Gardner and Helen Myrtle Milliren Gardner.

Her husband, Chandos Robley Heater, preceded her in death October 1, 1978.

Surviving are four sons, Edward Duane Heater and his wife Linda, William Hanson Heater and his wife Diane, Robert Allen Heater and his wife Luanne, Richard Neal Heater and his wife Nancy.. Eight grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. And, two brothers, Donald Wayne Gardner and Kenneth Neal Gardner.

In addition to her parents and her husband, Mrs. Heater was preceded in death by one sister and one brother, Elizabeth Newbrough and Harry William Gardner Jr.

Mrs. Heater was a graduate of Washington Irving High School. She was a dietitian, having worked for St. Mary's Hospital and then United Hospital Center until her retirement in 1985.



CARRIS "Pinky" HOUSE

Carris (Pinky) House (WI 1951) , died in February 2011. He had been living in Carson City, NV.

EDITOR'S NOTE: This is the first notice of his death that I received. The information was received from: Carolyn Hinzman Ramsay (Weston High '52).



MARY FRANCES REBROOK LYNCH

Mary Frances (Rebrook) Lynch, 70, passed away on July 10, 2012, after an extended battle with cancer at her home in Tustin, California.

She the daughter of Mary and the late Paul Rebrook.

In addition to her mother, she is survived by her two daughters, Tracy Lynch and Erin Mosier (wife of Matt) and grandchildren, Opal and Osaze Lynch; and several cousins.

Fran graduated from Victory High School in 1959. She once worked for U.S. News and World Report in Washington, D.C., before joining the CandP Telephone Company in Clarksburg, WV, and later on Pennsylvania Bell in Pittsburgh. She and her family then moved to Northern California, Chicago and finally to Southern California. Her marriage to Robert Lynch ended in divorce.

Fran was a highly successful sales representative in the industrial plastics business for many years and leaves behind many dear friends around the country.

She was a devoted mother and a kind and loyal friend to all who knew her.

At her request, there will be no formal services to commemorate her life.



PAUL J. LOVELL, Sr.

Paul J. Lovell Sr., 101, of Bridgeport, West Virginia, died July 7 at the Heritage Nursing Home.

He was born April 22, 1911, in Clarksburg, WV, a son of Floris Lee Lovell and Bessie Bird Lovell.

He is survived by one brother, Harold B. Lovell and his wife Lillian of Pleasanton, CA. He is also survived by a daughter, Charlotte E. Flowers and her husband Robert of Fairmont; a son Paul J. Lovell Jr. of Bridgeport; and grandchildren, R. Bryan Flowers and his wife Tammy, Lori Flowers Dunn and her husband Alan. Also surviving are great-grandsons, R. Gannon

Flowers and Bryson Flowers; a great granddaughter, Sierra and her mother Kelly Constable Flowers. Also surviving are several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death in 1992 by his wife of 57 years, Beatrice "Bea" Lovell. He was also preceded in death by a grandson, M. David Flowers in 2009; a brother, Dennis G. Lovell; and sisters, Geraldine Lawson and Ernestine Lovell.

Mr. Lovell started his career in Clarksburg at the age of 16 in 1927 at Manhattan Restaurant washing dishes for 12 hours each day in the summer. Two weeks after graduation from Victory High School in 1929, he was employed by Stout Company, a restaurant equipment company, and worked there continuously for 80 years until 2009, eventually becoming president and co-owner. The only time that Mr. Lovell spent away from his job was the one and a half years he served in the U.S. Army during World War II. His unit was captured during the Battle of the Bulge, he lost an eye and spent several months as a Prisoner of War in Heppenheim, Germany. Due to the inhumane treatment and lack of food, Mr. Lovell's health suffered and he spent a number of months recovering in a Martinsburg VA Hospital before returning home to his wife and family. At the time prior to his death, Mr. Lovell was believed to be the oldest living World War II POW in the United States. He was a member of the American Legion Post 68 and was an active member of the Barbed Wire Mountaineers Chapter 1 of American Ex-Prisoners of War.

Mr. Lovell was an active member of the Bridgeport Baptist Church for 62 years, where he served as a Deacon and Greeter.

NOTE: by Frances Tate Barrett – WI 1950

I need to write an addition to this obituary about this brave man. His daughter Charlotte and I attended Sunday School and Church at Barnes Memorial Baptist Church in North View as little girls. I remember like it was yesterday when her father was drafted into the service. I also remember the adults taking about him being a POW in a German concentration camp. The story was that they were given almost nothing to eat but the German people that lived around the camp threw turnip peelings into the camp for the prisoners to eat. And as Paul used to tell us, they were darned glad to get them. He really didn't think the civilians had much to eat either except the turnips. When he was released from the Martinsburg VA hospital and came home the church people couldn't believe how thin he was. But determined as he was he then continued on with his life but he was a hero to all of us. During the time he was in the service his wife Beatrice and his mother Bessie taught Sunday School and lived a Christian life. I'm sure they were praying every day for God to save his life and bring him to them.



MICHAEL TODD ALLEN

Michael Todd Allen, age 37, passed away October 5, 2011, at the United Hospital Center in Bridgeport.

Todd, as he was known by many, was the son of Brenda Allen Greynolds and Jaimie Greynolds of Summit Park.

Todd is survived by his sister, Michelle Allen and her companion Brian Barksdale; his brother, Zachary Greynolds; one nephew, Isaac Barksdale; his grandmother Gladys; as well as several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Todd was a graduate of Washington Irving High School, Class of 1991. He also attended the United Technical Career Center in high school. Following graduation, he attended the International Academy of Design and Technology, having been well versed in computers. He was formerly employed by Kentucky Fried Chicken, Whaley Distributing, Domino's, and the Pizza Outlet. More recently, he was an Emergency Medical Technician with Jan-Care.



JAMES WADSWORTH "JIM" FURBEE

James Wadsworth "Jim" Furbee, 100, of Memphis, Tenn., formerly of Clarksburg, W.Va., and West Palm Beach, Fla., passed away July 5, 2012. He was born April 10, 1912, in Clarksburg, W.Va., son of the late Truman Adrian Furbee and Alta Furbee.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 63 years, Virginia Holloway Furbee, and granddaughter, Elizabeth Berger.

Also preceding him in death were two sisters, Mrs. Helen Evans and Mrs. Fred McBride.

Jim is survived and sorely missed by his daughter, Marsha Holloway Furbee Berger (WI 1959), and his son-in-law, Jack Lee Berger, of Germantown, Tenn.; his granddaughter, Mrs. Gretchen Fromke of Knoxville, Tenn.; four great-grandchildren, Michael Dean Fromke Jr., Jon Curtis Fromke, Anne Holloway Fromke, Dena Elizabeth Fromke; two nieces, Mrs. Jack (Chloe Ann) Chipps and Mrs. Bobby (Jackie) Cotter; and one nephew, Ed Evans.

Mr. Furbee was a retired co-owner and manager of Wholesale Tire Co. and a retired franchisee with Jerrico and Long John Silvers. He was a World War II veteran, serving as Lieutenant JG in the United States Navy. He graduated from West Virginia Wesleyan College, Buckhannon, W.Va., and Washington Irving High School, Clarksburg, W.Va.

He was a longtime member of First Methodist Church of Clarksburg, serving the church faithfully since childhood, and served the Royal Poinciana Chapel in Palm Beach, Fla. For the last 18 years, he resided at Kirby Pines Estates, attending church services there. The family would like to thank the staff for their love and care and for his sitters, Verdell Shaw and Glenda Williams, for their faithful service.

Mr. Furbee was an avid sportsman: All State in basketball, State Champion in tennis, and ran track at West Virginia Wesleyan. He also enjoyed golf until he was 90 years old.



CONNIE BAILEY CASTO
WI 1959



Constance Bailey Casto died July 25 at the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Fla.

Sweet spirited, beautiful, patient and kind are a few words that can be used to describe Connie. She was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother and friend.

Connie was born in Clarksburg, W.Va., as Constance Ada Bailey. She married Richard Casto in 1971, and they were able to share 41 wonderful years together before her passing.

Connie obtained an associate's degree at Sullins College in Bristol, Va., a bachelor's degree in physical education at Brenau University in Gainesville and a master's degree in special education at West Virginia University - home of the Mountaineers.

During her 34 years of teaching, Connie also served as a councilwoman for the Dunnellon (Fla.) City Council. She served as president for Delta Kappa Gamma Sorority and sang in the church choir. Since her retirement, Connie moved to St. Marys with her husband. While living in St. Marys she has served on the board of directors for CASA and EarthKeepers and was involved in many other volunteer activities. Connie was loved by all who knew her, and she touched the life of everyone she met in many ways.

She is survived by her husband, Fr. Richard Casto; four daughters, Valerie Spencer of Citrus Springs, Fla., Melissa Casto of Ocala, Fla., Shannon Casto of Ocala, Fla., and Allison Mentzer of Portage, Mich.; stepsons Ric Casto of Longwood, Fla., Steven Casto of Weston, W.Va., David Casto of Milford, Ohio, and Christopher Casto of Bridgeport, W.Va.; one sister, Beverly Chinnis of Richmond, Va.; two brothers, the Rev. Douglass Bailey of Winston-Salem, N.C., and Gary Bailey of Freno, Calif.

A memorial service for Connie will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 4, 2012, at King of Peace Episcopal Church in Kingsland. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Connie's name to King of Peace Episcopal Church, 6230 Laurel Island Parkway, Kingsland, GA 31548, or the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation, 1332 N. Halsted St., Suite 201, Chicago, IL 60622-2691.



RODNEY BLAINE FORINASH

BRADENTON, Fla. — Rodney Blaine Forinash, 66, of Lakewood Ranch, Florida, passed died on June 20, 2012. He was born in Clarksburg on Sept. 2, 1945, son of the late Gordon Ewing and Oma White Forinash.

He is survived by his wife of 14 years, Kathy, of Lakewood Ranch, FL. In addition to his wife, he is survived by stepsons, Jimmy Hausley of Bradenton, FL, and Kerry Hausley of Orlando, FL; granddaughter; four brothers, Gordon E. (Lois) Forinash Jr. and Jerry B. Forinash, Gary O. Forinash, and Mark L. Forinash; five sisters, Dorothy Westfall and Caroleen (Roger) Roe ; Lois (Harry) Bailey, Diana (William), Lisa (Craig). He was also preceded in death by one brother, Colin Forinash.

Rodney was a graduate of Roosevelt-Wilson High School, Class of 1964. He served his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He was a paratrooper and was honorably discharged in 1971. Rodney owned a landscaping business in Florida for 30 years. He attended East Bayside Community Church of Bradenton, FL.

Our thanks to the Clarksburg Exponent Telegram for allowing us to take excerpts from their obituaries and post them in the WI Newsletter.





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