THE WI NEWSLETTER 04/07

THE WI NEWSLETTER

Editor: Roleta Smith Meredith

Issue 92

April 2007

SPRING
After such a long, cold and grey winter
it's wonderful to welcome Spring.
Spring is a new beginning; the tiny crocus,
the yellow lilies and small buds on the
trees waiting to bloom and give colors and
fragrance for all of us to enjoy.

HAPPY SPRING TO EVERYONE.

EVERYONE PLEASE READ
WE NEED YOUR HELP
We NEED pictures.
Do you have some pictures of buildings or places around Clarksburg that you could share with us? Do you have some pictures of you or your classmates as a “precious child”—and a current picture is nice too. Do you have pictures of you and your family. How about pictures of you and friends when you were younger? How about a class picture.…..You don’t have to give the pictures to us. You can mail them and we will copy them and return them to you ASAP. Another way to share would be to take your pictures to Wal- Mart or CVS and have them copy the pictures then you can mail the pictures to us. Or you can scan them into the computer or have a friend who has a scanner do the job and email them to us. Please attach a note to each picture telling us the identification of the place or people in the picture…. It is so simple to do, it doesn’t hurt you or the picture but it helps us make the newsletter more interesting. Scan to either of us or get in touch with either of us to get our address where to mail the pictures.

Thanks - Judy = jkimler@verizon.net or Roleta = Roleta1@aol.com

NOTICE TO OUR VICTORY FRIENDS

We missed a lot of you at the CLARKSBURG PICNIC this year.
Did you know there is a website set up for Victory High School? Freddie Layman has created the site. I enjoyed visiting the site and I am sure you will also. It is of particular interest to our Victory High School grads….

It is so easy to navigate –just follow these instructions.

VICTORY HIGH SCHOOL WEB PAGE

http://www.victoryhighschool.org/
When the high school photo appears in the square, go to the left column and click on introduction.

When finished with introduction then go back to the left and go on down the line one at a time. [Example: Principals, Coaches, etc:] To enlarge photo[s] just click on the photo.

You may contact our friend who is a Clarksburg historian: Fred Layman (Victory 1946) at fgl46vhs@aol.com

CLARKSBURG REUNION PICNIC 2007
The Clarksburg Reunion Picnic was held in Sarasota, Fl. on March 1, 2006. There were 116 people in attendance. Although the group was smaller than we have had in several years, we still had a great time. I had heard from several people that they wouldn’t be attending due to medical problems, etc. We missed the large group of people who had attended Victory High School. This picnic is not for just the WI people, the intention was for me to bring people together who had a common bond….that being Clarksburg, WV.

The weather was a little cool for the picnic but one never knows what might occur with the weather in Florida in the winter. One day we can have temperatures in the 60’s and the next in the 80’s. If the northern states are having very cool weather and our wind is coming from the north, it only makes sense that our temperatures will be cooler. This was the coolest day we have experienced for the picnic. About 5 years ago it was windy but it still wasn’t cool. But this is the best time of year for most people and the price is right. If I rented a pavilion and had the meal catered, it would cost us each about $20.00. I think a lot of people wouldn’t attend at that price. So I will have it the same place again next year on March 1, 2008 (1st Saturday of the month). So mark your calendars now!

I hope that more of you will try to attend the picnic next year. It seems that a lot of the attendance at the picnic is from the classes of the 1950’s….except mine…which only had 5 people this year. I hope more will make an effort next year to come and visit with us for the day. We would love to see more attend from the Classes of the 60’s.

Thanks to all of the helpers. This picnic was the easiest I have done in the last 7 years because so many of you who regularly attend know what needs to be done and you just pitch in and do it. I was able to eat lunch, visit with more people and really enjoy this picnic.

A FEW FRIENDS CHECK INTO THEIR MOTEL

Sonja Grossa Alvaro (Bridgeport ’58), Augie Malfregot (WI ’56), Don Cinci (WI ’56), Jim Alvaro (WI ’56), Kitty Sager, Bud Collins (WI ’55), Kay Collins checking in at a Sarasota hotel for the week-end of fun together in Sarasota.

Left to right—Bill Meredith (Monongah ‘57), Roleta Meredith (WI ‘59) and Pat Elder (ND ’57) together on Friday night before the picnic to talk about old times

BROAD OAKS GANG
Roleta was adopted by the “Broad Oaks Gang". This is a group of people who have stayed so close through all the years…..and they have kidded me about how great it was to be from Broad Oaks. I have often said that their relationship with one another and the fun they had growing up makes me want to be one of them and it will only happen through adoption. They surprised me and made me an “Honorary Broadoaksian”. I was so surprised. Believe me, it is a title I will carry with dignity. Thanks to all the Broad Oaks people who participated in this surprise.

Don Sager (WI ’56) and Pat Elder (ND ’57) headed up “The Broad Oaks Gang” who presented me with this plaque which I treasure.

PASSION
I hope each of you have something for which you feel passion. See I said something….not someone. Hopefully you have felt passion for another person. But to feel passion for “something” is a special feeling. Look in your dictionary and you will see many meanings for the word PASSION. The one to which I am referring is “GREAT ENTHUSIASM”.

To show passion is to be involved…..to give what you can to see it to fruition. I feel passion---I think it makes me feel better---younger. Each year I feel passion for the Clarksburg Reunion Picnic and want to see it be as successful as possible. I feel passion for the newsletter each month I give it as much time as I can because I know so many enjoy it and I like to make people happy. I also have great enthusiasm for the WIN Scholarship because I believe education is necessary for the future. Many others share this passion with me. There are a couple hundred people who have joined me over the last 3 years to make this scholarship happen.

This month a couple of people joined me in this passion:

Alice S. Douglas gave a generous donation to the WIN Scholarship in honor of her sister Sue Selby Moats.

Bill and Deedie Swisher Souders sent a check to the WIN Scholarship also.

Would you like to feel that passion? I guarantee you that if you get involved in the WIN Scholarship you will catch my enthusiasm because you will know that you are a part of something that is wonderful and helping others….Join us! We have PASSION!

WE ARE MAKING A DIFFERENCE
If you wish to join in the PASSION, write a check to:
Roleta Meredith/WIN Scholarship

And mail to:
Roleta Meredith
3201 Charles MacDonald Street
Sarasota, Florida, Fl. 34240

Have some questions? Call me: 941-342-0030….

THANKS

FRIENDS FROM THE WI CLASS OF 1958

NEW EMAIL ADDRESSES

Ron Gonzalez (VHS ’56)	RonaldGonzalez3@msn.com
Diana Matheny Jones (WI ’70)	diana452@sbcglobal.net
Diana Folio Watne (WI ’57)	dfwatne@aol.com
Helen Gregory Flint (WI ’57)	helenlavonne@aol.com
Becky Hollandsworth Day (WI ’59)	rebeccahday@houston.rr.com
Charlotte Mutafis Fleming (WI ’53)	Charcharf@windstream.net
Angel Medina, Jr. (VHS ’61)	winsue@cebridge.net
Scott Miller (WI ’77)	sp330@aol.com
Tony Tiano (WI ‘62)	FDBroker@Bellsouth.net
Carolyn White Rector (WI ’59)	rector_carolyn@yahoo.com
Tom Reed (WI ’69)	reed1951@verizon.net
Rose Bosley McGee (WI ’65)	rosejack432@aol.com
Donald C. Givens (WI ’69)	budgivens@yahoo.com
Nancy Lou Goff Garten (RW '58)	nancygarten@hotmail.com
Gordon Ralph Williams (Bristol HS '50)	grwms@cox.net

CHANGE OF EMAIL ADDRESS

Joy Gregory Stalnaker (WI ‘59)	joy1941@frontiernet.net
Stephen and Sandra Lough Limbers (WI '57)	Slimberses@aol.com
Boo Beall (ND ’58)	bbeall2@verizon.net
Bill and Harriett Danley Van Voorhis (WI ‘58)	eerfanvan@comcast.net
(Al) Alfred Starkey (WI '60)	was: a2e4se@aol.com is now: aps4160@aznex.net
Polly Costlow Dennison (WI ’45)	was: polly817911@cs.com is now: pcdenn@yahoo.com
Jane Stout Gavin (WI ’59)	was: Jognjsg@aol.com is now: Jognjsg@cox.net

COUSINS
At the CLARKSBURG REUNION PICNIC you will meet relatives…..some you had forgotten about. Or you can even bring your relatives with you.

MISS CERRITOS CALIFORNIA

Pictured above is Sarah Hagge, the granddaughter of Bill and Deedie Swisher Souders. She is the daughter of their daughter GiGi Souders. Sarah Haggge won the coveted title of Miss Cerritos 2006 (Cerritos, California) at the annual pageant held February 2, 2006.

Miss Cerritos title is bestowed on the winner of the Scholarship contest. The contestants are judged on their poise, positive attitude, networking skills and professional appearance. The contest is a professional development opportunity with Miss Cerritos developing professional contacts and relationships what will help further her career goals.

Sarah will represent the Chamber of Commerce as an ambassador at many different events throughout the year and she will ride on the Cerritos Rose Bowl Parade float.

Congratulation to Sarah, and the proud grandparents….

SKY LINE DRIVE IN
EDITOR’S NOTE: I am sorry I missed putting these first two letters in last month’s newsletter.

submitted by: Mary Ellen Campbell Mathers (Unidis '61)
bichon@windstream.net
The February Trivia picture is the sign for the Skye Line Drive-In Theatre that was on Route 19. Growing up I could always count on my parents to take my two brothers and me to the drive-in on July 4th and Labor Day. I know we went on July 4th to see the great fire works display during intermission, but I'm not sure why we went on Labor Day. Unidis High school's first day of the school year was usually the day after Labor Day so I was always a little tired the first day of school. Mom would pop a big bag of pop corn and we would usually take some kool-aide or iced tea. I can not remember buying anything at the snack bar although the smells coming from the snack bar was inviting but money was hard to come by and with five in the family we were happy enough just to get to go to the drive-in. Dad would always tease us about going and he would make a deal with us that if we washed and cleaned the car inside and out then he would take us. I have since often thought that he should have had us promise to do that job after we had gone to the drive-in as there would be dropped and crushed popcorn on the floor and anything else that we had brought along with us to munch on.

The Skye Line Drive-In was more than just a movie screen. Next to the snack bar was a playground and I remember a train ride that went around in a circle on a track and this was a big thrill to a small child. There were also some cages with animals; I don't remember specifically what animals were there though. There were also some tables with umbrellas and chairs for people to sit, relax and watch the movie there. The one movie I remember seeing was “Gone With The Wind”. Oh how I loved Scarlet and dreamed of living in a house just like Tara. Of course the beautiful long dresses caught my eye also. I still watch that movie every chance I get. At one time I understand the Skye Line Drive-In was a well known attraction and several articles had been written about it and the owners. There would always be a night here and there where you could get in for a dollar a car load, boy could we teens load up a car. I remember my older brother Bob coming home with scratches all over. It seems that him and a few of his friends were going to get in free by hiking up the hill side. Little did they know that the hill side was covered with vines and briars. It took a while for those scratches to heal and they never tried that again. I was sad to see the drive-in closed, weeds had taken over and most of the screen was missing. I know there has to be change with growth but for the drive-ins to suffer the loss of patrons has created yet another thing that we will never be able to share with our children and grandchildren.

At one time, the Skye Line Drive-In was a show place. The long line of cars going up the driveway waiting to pay for their ticket and get parked in their favorite row was exciting. Of course you always got out of the car to talk with friends so you always wanted to get there early. Everyone had to be settled by the time the cartoon came on the big screen. At that point there was always this big hush, you might hear a baby cry just a little and soon be hushed. Everyone showed respect for the other person and was quiet. That doesn't happen that often today.

During the fireworks you would always get out of the car and sit on the hood to watch this beautiful display of shapes and colors. I always liked to hear the big boom that would echo with some of the fireworks. My younger brother's first trip to see the fireworks wasn't as enjoyable. When the fireworks was over, we couldn't find David. He was so scared of the noise he had gotten into the car and was under the seat. During the late 40's and 50's you didn't worry about your child going to the restroom or the snack bar. With growth and time, we have also lost that trust. Thanks for stirring a wonderful memory, the Skye Line Drive-In was big entertainment during my childhood and gave me lots of good memories.

submitted by: Ron Wamsley (VHS ’56)
roninparadise@adelphia.net
The trivia picture for February looks like the sign board for the Skyline Drive-in theater. I remember going there only a couple of times because Ellis Drive-in showed the latest released movies, and had the curb service with a DJ playing the hit tunes.

submitted by: Steve Griffith (NDHS ’60)
SGriff2393@aol.com
I don't know how I missed that last month. I must have missed the whole newsletter.

We moved out on Route 19 in 1946 and I grew up right across the road from the Skyline Drive-in Theater (which was built in the early 1950's). The builders and original operators were Charley and Dale Warner, and they had a son, Chuck, who is a year or two younger than I, and is a professional photographer in Fairmont.

I spent many a day, and night, at that place while I was growing up. Charley Price was the projectionist, and the Warners provided the best playground of any drive-in around. And they had live monkeys on display there too. I knew the Caputos too, and was the one who called Sam to tell him I had been looking out the window when the wind gust blew half of his screen away. One of the responders mentioned that they filmed part of a movie at the Skyline Theater, and that was true. It was "The Rain People" with James Caan, and I forget who else, but I remember the people coming into Jewel City Recreation (bowling alley) for breakfast and lunch. They were staying at the Town House West Motel.

Francis Ford Coppola was the director, and he purchased a Volkswagen Camper from me so his wife and son (I think it was the son that in later years lost his life in a boating accident on Lake Meade) wouldn't be stuck on the set or at the motel all day.

Part of the movie was filmed at the Skyline, but another part was filmed at the house Gary Weiner now owns. I stopped by there one evening after work to make sure that Mrs. Coppola was getting along OK with the camper and showed her a few things about it since she wasn't present when I delivered the vehicle to Mr. Coppola earlier in the day.

I think the cast and crew were only in Clarksburg for a week.

Thought I would share that too. I meant to last night, but my mind kept wandering to my pillow.

submitted by: Mary Virginia Duncan Johnson Wilke (WI '55)
MWdusty1@aol.com
I so enjoy your newsletter and meant to write about the Skyline Drive In. My Dad took me to my first drive in movie there when it first opened and he was visiting WV in the 40's. I was fascinated! Of course, as a teenager, I went there many times with my boyfriend, who becomes my husband, Hugh Johnson, Jr. Most memorable time was when we ran out of gas on the way back from there and had to walk down a dark country road and call his Dad to come to get us! We really enjoyed the Ellis drive in most as they had cement and shelters over the parking places with heaters. It was so fancy!! Later in life, we often talked about how great that drive in was, as in Ohio and AZ, they just had fields with the screens and nothing fancy. Good memories.

Thank you again for all the memories each month.

THEY MET THROUGH THE NEWSLETTER

Joe Malone (WI ’52) and Pat Elder (ND ’57) talk over sports. Although the two of them met over the internet through this newsletter, this was the first time they met in person. Joe Malone had written a letter about the 1947 St. Mary’s team being the best sports team in Clarksburg. Both share a love for basketball and due to that letter written to the newsletter Pat Elder nominated the team and then it was inducted into the NDHS/St.Mary’s Hall of Fame. Paully Romano accepted for the St. Marys 1947 team with an awesome amount of pride. They were elated that Joe Malone from WI wrote the article about them.

Pat Elder told me: “You know, that is how the people from Clarksburg work together and your newsletter continues to support that effort. Thank you!!

WI CLASS OF 1957

Friends of the WI Class of 1957 have a few laughs at the picnic. They are holding the soccer ball donated by Bernie Cohen (WI 1956). He is on the side lines telling the girls how to hold the soccer ball so his logo is visible.

Left to right in the back row: Bob Dennison, Jay Oliverio, Marty Elliott, Frank Muscari, Jim Brown. In the front row is Mere Gurson Schwartz and Diana Folio Wante

AMAZING
I receive an average close 75 to 100 emails a day. Many of these emails are from my newsletter friends. I receive a lot of websites from friends…..I seldom share these with you if I receive the same web address over and over again because I figure you have also received them. Every once in awhile I receive something that I want to share with all of you. Here are a few special web sites I think you will appreciate. Thanks to those who sent them to me. Without you people writing, there would not be a newsletter!

I think this man has done this a few times…
http://users.skynet.be/fa926657/files/B29.wmv

Here is another site:
http://sagebrushpatriot.com/america.htm

And you say you like art?
http://www.artakiane.com/home.htm

WEST VIRGINIA (You can check out some other WV videos located on this site. They are listed down the right hand side of this page.)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h5n2GhZTewE

FRIENDS REMINISCE

Some friends gather at the picnic to reminisce.
Left to right: Dick Tetrick (WI ’47), Bob Williams (WI ’45), June Hoffer Albright (WI ’49), Dick Albright (WI ’47), Linda Watkins Cooper (WI ’48), Bill Souders (WI ’46)

CARTOONS

These cartoons were drawn by John Cooper-WI-1951)…

Do you or did you ever draw cartoons? We would love to use them in the newsletter….Send them to: Roleta1@aol.com.

YOU HAVEN’T DONE IT?
OTHERS HAVE---TO THE TUNE OF $5,000.00.
This year there will be two children from RC Byrd High School who will be made happier by those who have done it. Yes, two children will receive help paying for their college education. Besides the $1,000.00 being awarded to Briana McQuillan for her second year in college. WIN Scholarships will be awarded to two graduates. They will receive $1,000.00 for their first semester and $1,000.00 for their second semester. In all that is $2,000.00 for each winner. So due to the enthusiasm that is spreading among the readers, WIN Scholarships in the amount of $5,000.00 will be awarded this year. This is only made possible because some of you are so generous.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for making this happen…..We can do great things together.

LOCATION FOR WASHINGTON IRVING MIDDLE SCHOOL
This article from The Clarksburg Telegram sent to me by Dick Hanifan (WI ’59)

Julia Pizzonia
Clarksburg Exponent

Clarksburg City Council members and teacher are trying to come to an agreement on locations for Washington Irving Middle School.

Clarksburg Council Member Patsy Trecost took a tour of the school and talked with teachers to find out where they think the school should end up.

Trecost says the teachers want to be in Clarksburg and like the Robert C. Byrd location. He says, they feel trapped on the hill top and have no where to expand.

Clarksburg City Manager Martin Howe says, Council doesn't want the school to move out of the community.
Trecost says Council and teachers plan to work together to get the bond passed for the good of the whole county, no matter where the location is both Council and teachers want to rebuild the school.

FROM ACROSS THE MILES THEY GATHERED
Yes, the came together at the Clarksburg Picnic to talk about old times and all the memories they had in common about that special place and that special time in their lives. Our memories are so important to us…because they are what make us who we are today.

REMEMBERING THOSE SERVING OUR COUNTRY Stop a minute…send an email and tell them how proud you are that they are serving us….
submitted by: Jeanne Colasante Thomas (ND ’61)
Thomas4two@aol.com
Just wanted to let all of his friends in Clarksburg who read the newsletter know that my brother, Dr. Frank Lopez - ND Class of 1970 and WVU Dental Class of 1977 is back in Iraq serving his second tour with the Medical Reserves. He arrived in Iraq on March 4th. He would love to hear from anyone and has sent the following message................

"Hiya,

For anyone who would like it, my address "over here" is

Major Frank Lopez
TF 399th CSH
Unit # 73433
APO AE 09333-3433"

He also has access to e-mail frank.j.lopez@us.army.mil

EDITOR’S NOTE: While you are at it, don’t forget to drop a line to Elizabeth Litzinger at: edl113084@yahoo.com. Liz is also serving in Iraq.

THIS CLASS ALWAYS HAS THE MOST ATTEND AND THEY SEEM TO HAVE THE MOST FUN!
Some other class going to challenge them next March 1, 2008?

MEMORIES OF THIS AND THAT
submitted by: Larry and Beverly Ellis O'Grady (WI ’58)
ogrady@cfl.rr.com
You don't know me; I attended WI one semester before my family joined the movement of many others eastward to Bridgeport. But this isn't about me, for sure.

I believe the apartment building in this month's newsletter is located at the corner of Main and Chestnut Streets. As that was only fifty-some years ago, the memory is just a bit hazy.

While in Central Junior High I had a downtown paper route, delivering the evening paper from Second Street, all along Main St., and ending at St. Mary's Hospital. How I remember those cold winter days; I believe the intersection of Main and Third Streets in Clarksburg has to be one of the coldest places on earth! I sure felt that way as a kid and on those cold days, when it got dark at 4:30, it seemed like it took days to cover those few blocks with that bag of papers.

While I didn't graduate from WI, my wife did. She was Beverly Ellis and lived on Bond Street in Stealey. As I began the third grade my family moved to Bond Street, next door to the Ellis family. Beverly graduated in 1958; I graduated from Bridgeport HS with the fantastically wonderful CLASS OF 1955. But my childhood years were in Stealey so I have the privilege of dual association.

We were married in 1960, moved to Kissimmee after I finished at WVU in 1964, and are still here.

We have returned to visit Clarksburg about every two years, on average. We love going "home" even with all the changes, etc. Of course the one...most important...factor of visiting Clarksburg has not changed...PEPPERONI ROLLS!!! The hot dogs are a close second, but they just never have been quite as good as those served by the Sanitary Restaurant, up from the Workingman's Store and Thom McCann (sp?) Shoe Store on Pike Street. Oh, what memories!!

What a fantastic job you are doing with the web site! One of Beverly's closest childhood friends, Betty Latstetter Burke, sent a note telling about the site and picnics and all. We were really disappointed in discovering we would be out of the state at the time of this year's picnic. We really wanted to attend and will attend next year. Browsing through last year's picnic pictures was just fantastic.

How easily it would be to just ramble on and on about growing up in Clarksburg, most specifically Stealey, but at the risk of overloading your email server I will control that urge. If you are in contact with any of those who graduated in the mid to late 50's, kindly pass along a big hello for us.

With many thanks for providing so many great flashbacks...

A FEW FRIENDS STAND BY ONE OF THE LAKES

PRECIOUS CHILD

NOTE FROM JUDY: I listened to Rex's suggestion and included pictures of all 3, Sandy, Judy and Rex.

submitted by: Rex Zickefoose (WI ’59)
rexzickefoose@hrea.coop
Did you know my birthday is today (February 27, when the newsletter came online)? Is that why you did that? Isn't that the picture with Sandra and Judy in it? You would probably get more of a response had you put them in too. Have fun in Florida. Say hey to my sister and Al.

I like to do an annual cookout here each year around the 4th of July. Thought it would be nice to have the old Hartland gang come.

submitted by: Sandy Zickefoose Lindke (WI ’56)
Sjlindke@wmconnect.com
Wow, where did you get that good picture of my handsome baby brother Rex? The newsletter came out on his 66th birthday. Right away he blamed me and of course I did not do it. Please someone fess up and get me off the hook. Rex is still a handsome dude even though he hides behind a nice beard. He loves to ride his Harley motorcycle and is very busy with the VFW and the Lions Club. He is getting ready to put a metal roof on his two story farm house. Is he crazy or what? He has already done the barn and mother-in-law house. Wish we could get him to the picnic. We all enjoy ourselves so much. He does not know what he is missing. I think it is better than a class reunion. Thanks for a wonderful surprise.

submitted by: Bobbie Snider Prochelo (WI ’59)
Prochelob@aol.com
The precious child is Rex Zickefoose. I have an unfair advantage as we were married for many years and had 3 children together.

submitted by: Marolyn Tustin Jett (WI '56)
ma5388@earthlink.net
The precious child I believe to be Rex Zickefoose, WI '59? I remember him from a very small child on Hall St. to a high school student in Hartland. Always a cute kid....

PRECIOUS CHILD FOR APRIL

Do you recognize this child? Write your guess to Roleta1@aol.com. I will only use correct guesses.

LOVE THOSE HOT DOGS…CLARKSBURG STYLE

SCREEN NAMES
Share with us how you decided on your screen name. Sometimes it makes it much easier for us to understand the email address and also helps us remember the name…..Write to: Roleta1@aol.com

submitted by: Mary Virginia Duncan Johnson Wilke (WI '55)
MWdusty1@aol.com
My 2nd husband, "Mac" Wilke & I met at a Parents Without Children outing in 1985. He followed me in to the grounds & it was really dusty. He said he was going to marry the woman that made him "eat dust" & he did a few months later! We shared the same initials, so when it came to the screen names we chose MWdusty1 & 2 (dusty standing for dusty roads) We also, had a business named Circle MW for many years until his demise.

submitted by: Barbara Warren Williams (WI '58)
bjwilliams@roverusa.com
My screen name is bjwilliams@roverusa.com. My dad always called me BJ, among other things, so I decided to use BJ with my married name.

submitted by: Judith A. McDougal Siders (WI '57)
siders_judy@sbcglobal.net
My address isn't so unusual, it is the way I got it. My grandson who was 12 at the time set my system up and gave me my address. He is 19 now and stationed in Kansas with the Army. He is an only child and his mother is in a nursing home with Huntington's Disease as of the last three months. She can't walk and doesn't talk too well. Her sister just died from Huntington's in the same nursing home. Please send good wishes to them in your own way.

I also am Irish, Scot-Irish to be exact. My paternal great grandparents were Romeo McDougal and Minnie Pearl Collins McDougal. I have been able to trace back to the year 1750.

submitted by: Louanna Furbee
louanna100@yahoo.com
Well, I have two e-mail addresses: one is the university one that just got assigned to me, furbeel@missouri.edu. The other is my yahoo address. Because the university address brings with it a ton of university spam that is a trial to download when I'm out of the US using a slow dial up (football tickets going on sale!, Hitt St. closed for repairs!, the newsletters of departments I've never heard of, etc.), I use the yahoo address mostly when away.

When I set up the account, my namesake in Chiapas, Mexico, Louanna del Socorro Guillén Rovelo, told me she already had one on yahoo, louanna91@yahoo.com. I thought, jeez - can there be THAT MANY louannas spelled that way. Well, I'll try louanna100@yahoo.com, and indeed I got it. Later I learned that Louannita (as we used to call her) chose louanna91 because 1991 was her "promoción year" - the year she entered college. The entry year is the important one, not the graduation year in Latin America. Probably there are 95 or 96 louanna spaces available on yahoo under 100.

submitted by: Jane Stout Galvan (WI ’59)
Jognjsg@cox.net
Jane Stout Galvan writes to explain her screen name: Jognjsg@cox.net. My email address stands for JognJane Stout Galvan because I love to jog.

Take care, Jane

submitted by: Dolores Costlow Wall (WI ’58)
Kidneybean7@aol.com
In 1996, I had a kidney transplant lovingly given by my middle son, Charles. We always called the kidney my "kidneybean." When I was 60 I used that number with it but in the next 7 years got on too many spam lists and mailing lists so figured it was time to get a new screen name. I always like the "kidneybean" part, so just took the 7 from the number of years I had had the kidney and made my kidneybean7.

The kidney is still functioning correctly and I have had no problems with it. It has now been almost 11 years, but I will stick with the 7 as long as I don't start getting spam and junk mail.

THESE FRIENDS ARE FROM THE WI CLASS OF 1955

SPRING TIME AND IT IS PROM TIME I WANT YOUR PROM PICTURE
Tell me about your memories of your prom…….
Do you have a prom picture you can share with us? We would love to see what you looked like at your prom. It is amazing the way clothing styles have changed. But I did see a style show the other day and some of the prom dresses being shown remind me of the ones we wore.

You can get your photo copied at Wal-Mart, and then mail it to us---you can scan it into your computer and email it to us…or you can mail the original and we will send it back to you ASAP. We need the names of those pictured, the name of the school and the year the picture was taken….. We really would love to fill the May issue with these pictures……just contact Judy at jkimler@verizon.net or Roleta at Roleta1@aol.com for directions about where to mail the pictures…thanks

THE 2008 SCHOLARSHIP QUILT
“AUTUMN SPLENDOR”

L to R: Mary Sue Clark Spahr, Carol VanHorn Dean, Sue Selby Moats, Kitty Sager, Roleta Meredith.

submitted by: Sue Selby Moats (WI '55)
moatsue@aol.com
The 2007 WIN Scholarship quilt Autumn Splendor was a big hit at the Clarksburg Picnic in Sarasota FL on Saturday, March 3. It was great seeing so many HS friends and meeting new ones. A special Thank You for those who sent beautiful quilt blocks for the quilt: Liz Custer Carder, Carol Dean, Sara Graham and the Fort New Salem Quilting Ladies, Sue Moats, Mary Nophsker, Elaine Norteman, Kitty Sager and Mary Sue Clark Spahr. The quilt truly represented the Autumn Splendor of West Virginia.

Another special Thank You goes to all who purchased chances to win the opportunity to take Autumn Splendor home with them. Due to your generous donations, the 2007 WIN quilt raised $1,702.00 for the WIN scholarship fund. Joe Malone, who traveled from California to attend the picnic, was selected to pull the winning ticket from the box full of raffle tickets. He drew Roleta’s ticket. Roleta actually won the quilt! What better way to repay her for all she does for Clarksburg Alumni with the Newsletter and the Clarksburg/Sarasota picnic?

“THINK SPRING”
Now it's time to Think Spring and start planning the 2008 WIN Scholarship quilt. Whenever I think of Spring in WV, I remember the blooming of early flowers to clear away the gloom from Winter's cold and snow. One of my favorite flowers is the fragrant cluster of blossoms from lilac bushes.

One of the fabric companies has a lovely line of fabrics which coordinate around a floral lilac blossom print which would make a wonderful starting point for our blocks this year. I will purchase some of these fabrics and then send a packet out to those who volunteer to make a block (or blocks) for our next WIN fund raiser. Directions for block size, etc will come with the fabrics and you may add your own to it as desired.

To help raise even more money for the WIN Scholarship in 2008, let's get an earlier start this year so that the quilt will be done in time for Roleta to take it to the August Clarksburg Picnic and it could also go to any 2007 Class Reunions in the Fall. SO, I need to know ASAP WHO IS WILLING to make blocks this year? I need time to order and purchase the fabrics and get packets sent out. Then the blocks need to be back to me to put together and quilt by June.

Please remember, this is a Clarksburg effort to raise money to help students from RCB HS further their education. Anyone may participate by making a block for the quilt. We appreciate the help received this year from people from other Clarksburg schools, not just WI. Let's raise even more $$ this year!

THIS IS IMPORTANT TO EVERYONE
This is an email I received from Mike and Gloria. This is a site to find those registered on the National Sex Offender List. This way you may be able to protect your children and grandchildren.

submitted by: Mike and Gloria Caruso Shaffer (WI '58)
mshaffer@ma.rr.com
This honestly checks out.
When you visit this site you can enter your address and a map will pop up with your house as the small icon of a house. Red, blue, green, dots will surround your entire neighborhood. When you click on these dots, a picture of a person will appear with an address and the description of the crime he or she had committed.

The best thing is that you can show your children pictures and see how close these people live to your home or school.

This site was developed by John Walsh from Americas Most Wanted. It is another tool to help us keep our kids safe.

Please pass on.
http://www.familywatchdog.us/

submitted by: C. David McMunn, Esq. (WI ’57)
dmcmunn@wvlawyers.com

I promised Tony Tiano at dinner last evening that I would notify you of his e-mail address and ask that you include him on your mailing list. Tony is a 1962 WI grad who has had a career in the insurance field in Florida. He has returned to his roots here in Clarksburg and has opened a restaurant across the street from Tomaro's Bakery and Audio Visual Concepts on 4th Street in Glen Elk. The name is Tre Sorella and I will let him tell you the meaning and source. The restaurant is very popular and a nice addition to the growing Glen Elk Renaissance. Be sure to try it out. His address is FDBroker@Bellsouth.net. Tony and Sandy's sister, Sharon Conwell Ayscue, librarianlady44@yahoo.com, the current librarian at RCB, were in the same WI Class of '62. Congratulations on your very successful and enjoyable newsletter publication and thank you for your hard work and dedication to the spirit of Clarksburg, WI and other area schools. Best regards.

submitted by: Donald C. Givens (WI ’69)
budgivens@yahoo.com

My name is Donald C. Givens, although I always used the nickname Buddy. I lived in Stealey until graduation in 69. I attended Fairmont State for 4 years, WVU for 1 year, Then moved to Florida in1975 to play music with a Morgantown gentleman, John Barill of the group, J.B. and The Bonnevilles. I just was turned onto this website, by a friend, Melissa C. Morris (WI '70), and I couldn't believe my eyes as I read the articles about C-burg and all things associated. I would love to get the newsletter, and have included my address for anyone that might be interested in reaching me.

submitted by: Ron Gonzalez (VHS ’56)
RonaldGonzalez3@msn.com

I would like to know how I can get the WI newsletter. I graduated from Victory class of 56. I got the Feb newsletter on line and I see a lot of my classmates there. Thank you I look forward to the newsletter

submitted by: Helen Gregory Flint (WI ’57)
helenlavonne@aol.com

I graduated from Beaver Falls High School in Pa. However, I attended school in Clarksburg for 11 years, starting with Alta Vista, then Central Junior High School and then WI. My family moved before my graduation.

NOTE: Helen, welcome back home ---once you are from Clarksburg, you are always from Clarksburg. For our filing system, you will be considered a graduate of WI with the class of 1957 as that is where you would have been if your parents hadn’t taken you away from us. Please remember to write to the newsletter about your memories of friends, places, school, etc. Always sign your name, school (WI) and class year in each email to me…thanks

submitted by: Marie A. Fiorenza-Garten Glass
geegeemarie@gmail.com

I would like to add my sister-in-law to the newsletter list. She attended WI thru her junior year, and then had to go to RW for her last year and graduated from there in l958. Her name is Nancy Lou Goff Garten - 1958 Graduate of R.W. Her e-mail is nancygarten@hotmail.com. She will be so excited to get the news from home. Like me, she lives in Lexington, Ky.

You are like an angel sent from God to take on such a task, and I cannot thank you enough. I rarely get home to WV anymore since my dad died in 1993, and after that my mom, Martha Fiorenza, moved to Gainesville, Fl with my older sister, Patty DeLille. Mom will be 95 yrs old on July 2nd. So when I do get a chance, I go to see her and marvel at how blessed I am to still have her alive and walking around! Keep up the good work and I promise that I will begin to participate more in the future.

submitted by: Judy Allen Hutson (WI ’56)
judithahutson@webtv.net

We finally got an updated system for our webtv and for the first time in months I could read the Newsletter. Whatever you do please do not delete me from your mailing list as I always enjoy reading about Clarksburg, W.I. and of course, Hartland (where my family lived) and Broad Oaks (where my dad and his family lived and grew up). Even though I don't recognize too many of the names. I am still enjoying the reminiscing and the West Virginia camaraderie. I live in Oklahoma and in our back yard we have an OU flag flying at all times and beside it is the Blue and gold West Virginia Mountaineer flag going also. Keep up the good work - MOUNTAIN MAMA

FRIENDS GATHER AROUND THE TABLE

A few who arrived in Sarasota early have a quiet meal together…
L to R: Stu Cashman, Bill Meredith, Roleta, Kitty Sager, Don Sager, Babe Bisping Cashman.

THIS IS POSSIBLE BECAUSE YOU GAVE
Briannna McQuillan was the recipient of the 2006 WIN Scholarship of $1,000.00. She is doing so well that we are awarding her another $1,000.00 toward her second year at WV Wesleyan. She did very well this year with a grade point average of 3.401. This is what the scholarship is all about, helping a child with the cost of education. I am so proud of Brianna as I am sure you are. You can write to her and tell her your thoughts about her continued education and give her some encouragement. Write: socrchic106@yahoo.com

This was made possible by you readers who gave to the scholarship. We must continue to help these young people in Clarksburg, West Virginia obtain a higher education which might not be within their reach without some help form us. In order to be part of this wonderful program, please send your check or money order made out to:
Roleta Meredith/WIN Scholarship
Mail to:
Roleta Meredith
3201 Charles MacDonald Drive
Sarasota, Florida 34240

I emailed Brianna to tell her my decision about giving her another $1,000.00 for her second year at WV Wesleyan. Below is a letter she wrote to all of you who have given to the Scholarship:

submitted by: Brianna McQuillan
socrchic106@yahoo.com
I’m sorry I did not get back to you sooner. I was on Spring Break this week and we had internet issues. This scholarship has meant a lot to me. It has given me the chance to gain the beginning of the education I need to pursue my career in athletic training. This scholarship has helped me broaden my education and experience college life. I'm very thankful for this scholarship.

I was very excited to find out about the scholarship for this coming year. Thank you all so much for giving me the chance to continue my college education. I appreciate all the help you have given me. Thank you so much!!

MORE FRIENDS ENJOYING

Jim Alvaro is on the left. In the red sweater is Don Cinci, sitting next to him is Kay Collins, then Eileen Fledman, Kitty Sager, and Mary Sue Clark Spahr

MARCH TRIVIA PICTURE
submitted by: Phyllis Alton Nichols (WI ’57)
Nmimiphyllis@aol.com
As usual, you and Judy have put together a great Newsletter. Thanks to you both. I think the trivia picture for March is the apartment house that used to be on the corner of S. Chestnut St. and Main. It was torn down and there is now a Doctor's office there. I Know I have passed that building many times and I am really not sure that I have the location right, but I do recognize the building.

submitted by: MaryBeth Riddle Sterling (VHS '58)
marybwv@ma.rr.com
I'm pretty sure that the picture is of the Lyons apartments which were located at Main & Chestnut Street. I recall passing them when walking "to town". It was also close to the bus stop on the other corner of Main St.

submitted by: Marolyn Tustin Jett (WI '56)
ma5388@earthlink.net
The trivia picture is Lyon Apts. on corner of Main and Chestnut Streets. They have been there a long time and I have known various people that have lived there.

submitted by: Catherine Custer Burke (WI ’52)
katiecbur@verizon.net
Trivia Picture for March is the Lyon Apartments corner of W. Main and Chestnut Streets near St. Marys Hospital.

Twelve apartments were in the building according to my treasured 1935 Clarksburg City Directory.

submitted by: Fred G. Layman (VHS'46)
FGL46VHS@AOL.COM
The March trivia photo is of the former two Lyon Apartment Buildings. The larger apartment building facing main street was listed according to U.S. postal records as 537-541 W. Main St. The smaller Lyon Apartment Building had a mailing address listed as 213-215 S. Chestnut St. By the looks of the architectural design these two apartments were probably built between 1902 to 1914 and were separated by a 50' patio. These buildings were torn down around 1989 and the lot purchased by the Empire National Bank. The bank then later sold the lot to Dr. Saravuts S. Fung, ophthalmologist, and he built an office building in 1991. Dr. Fung was originally from Wheeling, WV. He had his first location in Clarksburg in the Empire Bank Building.

submitted by: Barbara Ann Paugh Patton (WI ’61)
BAP5555@aol.com
This is the apartment building in front of old St Mary's hospital and right beside the St Mary's School of Nursing. Named Lyon Apratments. Now Dr Fung, an eye doctor, has his office there and a house used by Fairmont University is beside it. We used to walk by it on our way to Hite Field to watch our WI Hilltoppers play great football.

submitted by: Jim Pulice (WI ’62)
JPulice@msn.com
These are the Lyon Apartments on Main Street close to the St. Mary’s School of Nursing. They are directly across the street from the Main Street Grocery. I used to deliver groceries to these when I worked at the store.

APRIL TRIVIA PICTURE

Do you recognize the picture above? Write your guess to Roleta1@aol.com. I only print correct guesses with a memory of some kind attached to the trivia picture.

GETTING TO KNOW YOU
This is the second month for our Bio section titled “GETTING TO KNOW YOU”. For a class reunion the committee makes up a little book listing all the classmates, their address, name of spouse, occupation and number of children. I always thought this was wonderful but I wanted to know “ The Rest of the Story” …….what had this person been doing with their life since high school? Did they serve in the armed forces (where and when), did they travel (and the favorite destination), where had they lived, did they have a hobby? Not just the occupation but where did they work, how did they get to where they were today? If married, where did they meet their spouse? All those things that go into making a person complete….a background I guess we could call it….all the interesting things in LIFE. We all have those things that make us what we are today. Some have done a lot of things while others have been busy and content in other ways. There is no right and wrong to this…..just that we want to get to know you! So won’t you help us get acquainted? Just take a moment and write a little bio…See the ones submitted this month…

I would like to introduce you to Bob Dennison:
submitted by: Bob Dennison (WI ’57)
wvcarolinasue@comcast.net
After I graduated from WI, it was off to Potomac State then on to Fairmont State next to U S Naval Flight School and became a Naval Aviator. In school, I enjoyed my life and for several years played football, basketball & baseball (not knowing that I was not big enough nor good enough). Finally giving up to officiate the 3 sports for 22 years.

I was married to Sharon Kelly-we had 2 sons (but the marriage did not work out). Remarried to Carolyn Sue Tinder (Fairmont West Polar with diaper rash). She had a son and daughter which made for a great family. I later became Sales Manager for R D Wilson-Sons & Co (a local business) and retired after working there for 40 years. I lived on Fairmont Avenue overlooking both Victory High School & Ray's Snack Bar till we built a home at Elkview Meadows in Quiet Dell. Retired now and I spend my winters in Sarasota, Fla.

Getting to know John Teter:
submitted by: John Teter (WI ’61)
JTETER@balmar.com
Responding to your request in the March Newsletter, I would like to pass along to your readers where I have been since graduating from Washington Irving High School in 1961.

I went to Fairmont State College for a year; did not like that. I worked 3 months during the summer of 62 for Sutter Roofing on a project at the Union Carbon; did not like getting DIRTY.

Came to Hyattsville, Maryland to VISIT my brother-in-law and sister (Elizabeth, WI '56) for TWO WEEKS and the rest is history. I have been in the Washington, D.C. / Virginia area ever since.

I got a job in Washington, D.C. where I stayed for 6 months. Moved on to a job with the D.C. Government where I only stayed for 6 months, but it was very contributory to my career as I started learning computer programming. Got a job in Arlington, Virginia programming computers for 7 years. Got married in 1970. Got another job in Arlington, Virginia, staying there for 7 years. Had one son in 1973 (John-Michael). Got divorced. Changed jobs 3 times over the next 6 years. Then I came to work at Balmar, where I have been employed for 27 years (minus one year when I worked for the American Red Cross). Got married a second time in 1999. Had a granddaughter presented to me by my son and his first wife in 2003.

AND, on February 16th, 2007 I got to celebrate my mother's 91st birthday with her at my sister's house in Collegeville, Pa.

So, that is where I have been and what I have been doing since graduating from WI in 1961.

BECKY HOLLANDSWORTH DAY
Becky was our Precious child featured in the February issue of the newsletter. Here is a more recent picture of Becky and her son Brent Jacobs

OBITUARIES
WILLIAM ALPHEUS “BILL” LEAR
CLARKSBURG — Former Clarksburg Mayor William Alpheus “Bill” Lear, 82, of Bridgeport, WV, died peacefully Friday, March 16, 2007.

He was born in Clarksburg in 1924, a son of the late Joseph Hudson and Mary Blanche Hudson Lear.

He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Elma Lou Lear of Bridgeport; two daughters and sons-in-law,

Carol Louise Lear and Lynn Kelch of Killeen, Texas, and Mary Elizabeth and Michael D. Herron of Charleston; a son and daughter-in-law, Robert Preston and Rebecca Gail Lear of Bridgeport; two granddaughters, Amy Elizabeth Herron of Charlotte, NC, and Rebecca Christine Herron of Hermosa Beach, CA; and a brother, Joseph Boswell Lear of Clarksburg.

A lifelong Harrison County resident, Bill was a civic leader who was widely recognized for his efforts to improve the business climate and quality of life in the area. His help was often sought by a wide cross-section of community leaders, nonprofit organizations and youth groups. He spent 12 years on Clarksburg City Council, including a two-year term as mayor.

Bill helped incorporate the Clarksburg Area Redevelopment Task Force and later served as its president. He earned distinction on the Board of Directors of the West Virginia Council of Towns and Cities, where he was elected as vice president and then president.

A former member of the Region VI Planning and Development Council, he was one of three original committee members to study the parking issue in downtown Clarksburg and recommend off-street parking solutions. He lobbied for a Clarksburg Civic Center and downtown auditorium to help prevent the exodus of department stores and specialty shops to outlying malls and preserve the city’s once-thriving retail shopping district.

An active member of the Clarksburg Junior Chamber of Commerce, he was president and on the Board of Directors. He was also a member of the Board of Directors and vice president of the West Virginia Junior Chamber of Commerce, where he was chosen Outstanding Young Man in 1959 and Outstanding State Vice President.

Many remember Bill as a patron of the arts. One of the original incorporators of the Clarksburg/Harrison Cultural Foundation, he was on the Board of Directors and president. He was also president of the Community Concert for 17 years, where he proudly co-produced “Boardwalk to the Moon,” an original play performed at the Rose Garden Theater.

Due in part to his love of music, bands, parades and festivals, Clarksburg was the first city to exhibit floats celebrating the West Virginia Centennial during the 1963 Band Festival. Later, as housing chairman, he found housing for more than 4,000 student musicians each year for numerous Clarksburg band festivals. He chaired numerous Soap Box Derbies and Christmas Parades and co-produced three Miss West Virginia Pageants.

One of his great loves was the Stealey Recreation Center, where he was one of the original incorporators. He frequently cited his enjoyment clearing the land with other volunteers and later watching his children compete in swimming and diving competitions.

Believing that every great community should have a resource center for learning, Bill chaired the committee to raise funds for Clarksburg’s new Public Library, built in 1975, and helped raise money to preserve and restore the Waldomore.

Bill was especially proud of his involvement in building and operating “Big Moe,” the cannon to bolster school spirit at Washington Irving High School, from which he graduated. “Big Moe,” a crowd favorite, took part in the “1812 Overture,” performed by West Virginia University’s Marching Band during the 1969 football season. He continued his involvement with WI by organizing and chairing class reunions until his death.

During World War II, Bill enlisted and proudly served overseas in the Third Army, 26th Infantry Division. Following the war, Bill graduated summa cum laude from Marshall College with a major in history and a minor in philosophy. He was a founding member and the first president of Phi Alpha Theta, a national honorary history fraternity.

Retiring after working for Standard Advertising/Mc-Whorter Advertising for 34 years, he returned to work as general manager of the 4 Seasons Lawn and Garden Center.

MARY E. BAILEY (MAYNO)
CHARLESTON — Mary E. Bailey (Mayno), 92, of Charleston, passed away at Marmet Health Care on February 24, 2007.

Mayno graduated from Washington Irving High School in 1932 and attended Cincinnati and Oberlin Conservatories of Music and Salem College.

She was the daughter of the late Warren Lee and Mary Alberta Soder Williams.

Mayno was preceded in death by her husbands, Dr. E. Ross Allen and Douglass M. Bailey, and one brother, W. Lee Williams Jr.

She is survived by her son and his wife, E. Ross Allen Jr. and Diana of Cross Lanes, WV; a daughter, Barbara Allen Gordon and her husband Bruce of Montrose, NY; four grandchildren, E. Ross Allen III and his wife Margaret of Herndon, VA, Belinda Allen Merriman and husband Tim of Richmond, VA, Dr. J. Christopher Neuman and his wife Kristin, of Waxhaw, N.C., and Dr. B. Clifford Neuman and wife Gracie, of Los Angeles, CA; one great-granddaughter, Joan Bailey Merriman; three great-grandsons, Tanner Neil Merriman, Joshua and Daniel Neuman; four stepchildren, the Reverend Douglass M. Bailey and wife Carolyn of Winston-Salem, NC, Beverly Bailey Chinnis and husband Carter of Richmond, VA, Gary Holden Bailey of Fresno, CA, Constance Bailey Casto and husband, the Reverend Richard Casto of St. Marys, GA; 12 stepgrandchildren and 27 stepgreat-grandchildren.

DOROTHY OWENS

OWENS, Dorothy M. born Aug. 22, 1939, went to join her Lord and Savior and late beloved husband Guy E. Owens and her mother Merle on Tues., March 13, 2007. Dorothy would have graduated from WI in 1957, but her family moved to Dayton, Ohio area. She leaves behind to mourn her passing her father Elwood Blizzard; 2 daughters Pamela Singleton (Dan) and Shelly Tool (Garey); 1 brother Tom Blizzard (Annie); grandchildren Ronnie Owens (Maria), Corrie Owens, Jason and Crystal Dennis, Steven and Laura Dennis, Amanda Tool, Garey Tool Jr. and Jerimah Dennis; great-grandchildren Brianna, Sydney, Jacob, Riley, Madalyn and 1 on the way and numerous other family members and friends. Dorothy was a devout follower of her Lord and Savior throughout her life and a member of Cornerstone Baptist Temple. She also wrote beautiful poetry. Dorothy will be deeply and sadly missed by her family and friends. Life is just a blink of the eye, watch for us mom.

Above obit from the Dayton Daily News, Dayton, Ohio

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